bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Conservative vs. Radical Treatment of Ameloblastoma on Recurrence Rate and Quality of Life: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Gasparro Roberta , Giordano Francesco , Campana Maria Domenica , Aliberti Angelo , Landolfo Elena , Dolce Pasquale , Sammartino Gilberto , di Lauro Alessandro E.
Published: September 2024

Ameloblastoma is a rare, benign, but locally aggressive odontogenic tumor that originates from the epithelial cells involved in tooth development. The surgical approach to treating an ameloblastoma depends on the type, size, location, and extent of the tumor, as well as the patient’s age and overall health. This umbrella review’s aim is to summarize the findings from systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses on the effect of radical or conservative treatment of ameloblastoma on the recurrence rate and quality of life, to evaluate the methodological quality of the included SRs and discuss the clinical management. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library) were checked. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate after surgical treatment, while the secondary outcomes were the post-operative complications, quality of life, esthetic, and functional impairment. The methodological quality of the included SRs was assessed using the updated version of “A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Review” (AMSTAR-2). Eighteen SRs were included. The quality of the included reviews ranged from critically low (three studies) to high (eight studies). Four studies were included in meta-analysis, and they revealed that the recurrence rate is about three-times more likely in the conservative treatment group compared to the radical treatment group, and this result is statistically significant. Despite the high recurrence rate, the latter was more appropriate in the case of smaller lesions and younger patients, due to better post-operative quality of life and reduced functional and esthetic impairments. Based on the results of this overview, conservative treatment may be recommended as the first-line approach for intraosseous ameloblastoma not involving soft tissue. However, given the expectation of a higher recurrence rate, it is advisable to reduce the interval between follow-up visits. However, further prospective studies are needed to establish the best treatment choice and follow-up period.
Pseudocapacitive and Magnetic Properties of SrFe12O19–Polypyrrole Composites
Authors: MacDonald Michael , Zhitomirsky Igor
Published: September 2024

This study is inspired by the importance of advanced composites, combining spontaneous magnetization with electrical charge storage properties. It is focused on the investigation of magnetically hard SrFe12O19 (SFO) material and its composites with polypyrrole (PPy). For the first time, an organic surfactant–charge transfer mediator and high-energy ball milling (HEBM) were applied to the preparation of high-active-mass SFO composite electrodes. An important finding was the ability to achieve enhanced capacitance of SFO and its composites in a negative range of electrode potentials in an electrolyte. The benefits of the sodium sulfate electrolyte and the charge storage mechanism are discussed. Another important finding was the synergy of the properties of SFO and PPy, which allowed the preparation of highly capacitive conductive composites. The effects of HEBM and the SFO content in the composites on the capacitive properties were studied. Magnetic measurements revealed the effect of HEBM on the magnetic properties and demonstrated good magnetic properties of the composites, which also exhibited advanced capacitive properties. The composites were utilized for the manufacturing of an asymmetric device, which exhibited high capacitive properties at an applied voltage of 1.5 V.
An Overview of Nanotechnology in Dental Medicine
Authors: Nicolae Carmen-Larisa , Pîrvulescu Diana-Cristina , Niculescu Adelina-Gabriela , Rădulescu Marius , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Croitoru George-Alexandru
Published: September 2024

The dentistry industry has been modernized by nanotechnology, as this emerging field has opened up new doors for dental treatment, restoration, and tissue regeneration. The potential applications of nanomaterials in dentistry are reviewed in this paper, ranging from advanced restorative materials to targeted drug delivery systems. Due to their unique characteristics (e.g., high surface area-to-volume ratios and tunable physicochemical properties), nanomaterials allow for the precise control of material behavior at the nanoscale. The ability of nanostructured materials to promote tissue regeneration offers the prospect of developing new approaches in bone and periodontal regeneration. Therefore, this review thoroughly analyzes nanomaterials’ characteristics and biomedical applications, highlighting how they can aid in overcoming challenges in dental care and create possibilities for more individualized and less-invasive dental treatments.
Composite Coatings of Gellan Gum and Inulin with Lactobacillus casei: Enhancing the Post-Harvest Quality of Guava
Authors: González-Cuello Rafael Emilio , Mendoza-Nova Leidy , Rodriguez-Rodriguez Virginia Consuelo , Hernández-Fernández Joaquín , Ortega-Toro Rodrigo
Published: September 2024

Guava is a highly sought-after tropical fruit in the market due to its high content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other phenolic compounds. However, due to its climacteric nature, it has a short post-harvest shelf life. The aim of this study was to develop coatings based on gellan gum (GG) and inulin (IN) incorporating Lactobacillus casei, which were tested for their potential ability to extend the post-harvest shelf life of whole guava fruit. The coatings were prepared using the following formulations: 0.5 GG/1.0 IN (w/v), 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v), 0.5 GG/1.0 IN(w/v), and 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v). The coated and uncoated (control) fruits were stored at 25 °C for 12 days, and various quality attributes were evaluated (including respiration rate, soluble solids, titratable acidity, weight loss, total phenol content, and color). The results indicated that the application of the coatings reduced weight loss, color change, and respiration rate in the fruits. However, the 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v) formulation provided the best maintenance of post-harvest quality for the fruit evaluated. The coatings with a higher inulin content showed the highest growth of L. casei, which could enhance the antimicrobial effect of the coating. Therefore, the combined application of L. casei and inulin in coatings based on gellan gum can be considered an effective treatment to extend the shelf life and preserve the quality of guava fruits.
Effect of Silica Nanoparticle Treatment on Adhesion between Tissue-like Substrates and In Vivo Skin Wound Sealing
Authors: Jeon Yeji , Kim Tae Ryeol , Park Eun Seo , Park Jae Hyun , Youn Han Sung , Hwang Dae Youn , Seo Sungbaek
Published: September 2024

Silica nanoparticles are innovative solutions of surgical glue that can readily adhere to various tissue-like substrates without the need for time-consuming chemical reactions or ultraviolet irradiation. Herein, 10 nm-sized silica nanoparticle (SiNP10) treatment exhibited maximum adhesion strength in the porcine heart tissue model, which was approximately 7.15 times higher than that of the control group of non-treatment. We assessed the effects of silica nanoparticle treatment on in vivo skin wounds by scoring tissue adhesion and inflammation using histological images. Compared to the commercial cyanoacrylate skin adhesive (Dermabond), suppression of inflammatory cytokine levels in the incision wound skin was observed. We further quantified the expression of angiogenic growth factors and connective tissue formation-related proteins. On day 5 after wound closing treatment, the expression levels of PDGF-BB growth factor were significantly higher in SiNP10 treatment (0.64 ± 0.03) compared to Dermabond (0.07 ± 0.05). This stimulated angiogenesis and connective tissue formation in the skin of the incision wound may be associated with the promoting effects of SiNP10 treatment on wound closure and tissue adhesion.
Identification of Single-Blade Angle Variation in Axial Flow Pumps Based on the Variational Mode Decomposition Method
Authors: Zou Hongmei , Tang Fangping , Yu Miao , Shen Jie , Zhu Zezhong , Dai Liang , Liu Haiyu
Published: September 2024

Pressure pulsations are crucial data within the flow field of a pump, and the characteristics of these pulsations can reveal changes in the internal flow. Based on model experiments, this paper obtained pressure pulsation data under two blade conditions and compared direct time-domain observations, peak-to-peak value changes, and the VMD decomposition method. The results show that even when it is known that one blade condition has changed, it is not possible to determine this through direct observation of pressure pulsation changes. The peak-to-peak value changes indicate that under special flow conditions, they are easily affected by different operating conditions, which can interfere with the results. In contrast, the VMD method, which decomposes the signal into low-frequency components, can better display anomalies within the pressure pulsation cycle and is less susceptible to the interference of flow conditions, offering some reference significance for diagnosing the blade operating conditions of the main pump.
Face Attack Online: Unpacking Conflicts in Multimodal Group Chats
Authors: Cao Fan , Ruiling Yu Vanessa
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on analyzing face attacks in the conflict discourse of cross-linguistic online chats on the instant message application WeChat among a group of international students at a prestigious university in China. Drawing on the previous impoliteness theory of Leech and Culpeper, this article selectively combines these two theories and proposes that in face-attack studies, especially with respect to online discourses, impolite multimodal discourse should be considered and subsumed in the theoretical framework. It is found that a wide array of face attacks in conflict discourse manifest themselves both in verbal discourse as well as in multimodal counterparts. The present study might shed light on online impoliteness research that is beyond monolingual and single-mode contexts.
Biomarkers and Rehabilitation for Functional Neurological Disorder
Authors: Mark Victor W.
Published: September 2024

Functional neurological disorder, or FND, is widely misunderstood, particularly when considering recent research indicating that the illness has numerous biological markers in addition to its psychiatric disorder associations. Nonetheless, the long-held view that FND is a mental illness without a biological basis, or even a contrived (malingered) illness, remains pervasive both in current medical care and general society. This is because FND involves intermittent disability that rapidly and involuntarily alternates with improved neurological control. This has in turn caused shaming, perceived low self-efficacy, and social isolation for the patients. Until now, biomarker reviews for FND tended not to examine the features that are shared with canonical neurological disorders. This review, in contrast, examines current research on FND biomarkers, and in particular their overlap with canonical neurological disorders, along with the encouraging outcomes for numerous physical rehabilitation trials for FND. These findings support the perspective endorsed here that FND is unquestionably a neurological disorder that is also associated with many biological markers that lie outside of the central nervous system. These results suggest that FND entails multiple biological abnormalities that are widely distributed in the body. General healthcare providers would benefit their care for their patients through their improved understanding of the illness and recourses for support and treatment that are provided in this review.
Tooth Loss in Periodontitis Patients—A Risk Factor for Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta—Analysis
Authors: Agarwal Bhawna , Bizzoca Maria Eleonora , Musella Gennaro , De Vito Danila , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Ballini Andrea , Cantore Stefania , Pisani Flavio
Published: September 2024

Background: Periodontal disease and tooth loss have been long suggested as risk factors of mild cognitive impairment. The underlying mechanisms could be systemic chronic inflammatory mediators, direct pathologic challenge to the nervous system, malnutrition and/or loss of neurosensory stimulation input causing brain atrophy. This review aimed to examine the existing literature studies linking the effect of periodontal disease and tooth loss on the development of mild cognitive impairment. Methods: A systematic review using PEO was conducted. Three electronic databases, namely Embase, Medline and DOSS (UCLan), were searched for relevant articles published up to April 2023. Google Scholar and a hand search were also conducted to ensure no relevant studies had been missed. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of studies. Results: The findings showed that chronic periodontitis and tooth loss, both individually and in combination, led to an increased risk of mild cognitive decline in adults over 50 years. Within the limitations of this review, periodontitis and tooth loss both contribute to an increased risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia, but the evidence so far is not strong. Conclusions: In future, more robustly designed studies investigating periodontal disease and tooth losslink with cognitive health decline are required with a longer follow-up duration.
Direct Mail or Bonded Warehouse? Logistics Mode Selection in Cross-Border E-Commerce under Exchange Rate Risk
Authors: Li Xiaoyi , Yu Hui , Sun Caihong
Published: September 2024

The rapid development of cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) has enabled more suppliers to expand into overseas markets, meeting increasingly diverse consumer demands. Selecting an effective logistics mode is a crucial issue for suppliers, yet uncertainty in demand and exchange rate fluctuations make this problem challenging. This paper considers a supply chain consisting of a supplier and a CBEC platform. Using a distributionally robust optimization approach, we provide optimal overseas warehousing strategies and logistics mode selection for suppliers, given partial distribution information of market demand and exchange rate, such as means, variances, and covariances. It is found that when demand and exchange rate fluctuations are small, the supplier chooses the bonded warehouse logistics mode to reduce costs. Conversely, when demand and exchange rate fluctuations increase, the supplier opts for the direct mail mode to respond flexibly to market risk. The correlation between exchange rate and demand also affects the choice of logistics mode. Specifically, with low correlation, the preference is for the bonded warehouse mode, whereas high correlation leads suppliers to choose the direct mail mode. In addition, the impact of demand and exchange rate fluctuations on suppliers’ overseas warehousing volumes depends on the product’s profit margin. These findings provide guidance for the selection of CBEC logistics under exchange rate risk.
Online Social Influence and Negative Emotions toward Snow Sports Brands: Moderation and Mediation Effects
Authors: Iranzo-Barreira Álvaro , Ruiz-Mafe Carla , Küster Ines
Published: September 2024

This article draws on the stimulus–organism–response (SOR) model to understand the role of negative emotions in the anti-brand behaviors of online users who consume snow sports brands. To this end, both the online social influence and the mediating effect of symbolic incongruence (stimulus) on the generation of negative emotions (anger, stress, frustration, fear, boredom and sadness) (organism), and how these influence the formation of negative customer brand engagement (nCBE) (response), are analyzed. The study also analyses the moderating effects of “level of expertise”, this makes it possible to capture differences in behaviors based on the profile of the users in each of the proposed relationships. Questionnaire responses of 400 ski and snowboard users over 18 years of age were analyzed using a quantitative methodology. The results obtained have important theoretical and practical implications, since they confirm that online social influences have both a direct and indirect (mediating) effect on negative emotions, which positively affects the nCBE of online users of snow sports brands. Significant differences in behavior based on experience level (moderation effect) were also found. The study proposes useful practical recommendations applicable in online environments that the extreme sports industry could use to neutralize/avoid highly detrimental consequences.
Baseline Characteristics Associated with Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Treatment Outcomes in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tukanov Eldar , Van Loo Dorine , Dieltjens Marijke , Verbraecken Johan , Vanderveken Olivier M. , Op de Beeck Sara
Published: September 2024

Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) has emerged as an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Identifying baseline characteristics that prospectively could predict treatment outcomes even better is crucial for optimizing patient selection and improving therapeutic success in the future. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Literature searches in Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases identified studies assessing baseline characteristics associated with HGNS treatment outcomes. Inclusion criteria focused on studies with adult patients diagnosed with OSA, treated with HGNS, and assessed using full-night efficacy sleep studies. Risk of bias was evaluated using the NICE tool. Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. Commonly reported baseline characteristics with predictive potential included BMI, site of collapse, and various pathophysiological endotypes. Most studies used the original Sher criteria to define treatment response, though variations were noted. Results suggested that lower BMI, absence of complete concentric collapse at the palatal level, and specific pathophysiological traits were associated with better HGNS outcomes. This review identified several baseline characteristics associated with HGNS outcomes, which may guide future patient selection. Importantly, patients were already preselected for HGNS. Standardizing response criteria is recommended to enhance the evaluation and effectiveness of HGNS therapy in OSA patients.
Investigation on the Curing and Thermal Properties of Epoxy/Amine/Phthalonitrile Blend
Authors: Peng Cong , Luo Tao , Wu Zhanjun , Li Shichao
Published: September 2024

The bisphenol A-type phthalonitrile (BAPH) was blended with the classic epoxy system E51/DDS to prepare the epoxy/phthalonitrile thermoset. The curing kinetics were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) using the isoconversional principle, and the average activation energy (Eα) of the E51/DDS curing reaction was found to decrease from 87 kJ/mol to 68.6 kJ/mol. Combining the results of the rheological study, the promoting effect of phthalonitrile on the crosslink of epoxy/amine is confirmed. The curing reaction of the blended resin was characterized using FTIR, and the results showed that BAPH could react with DDS. The thermal behaviors of the thermosets were investigated via DMA and TGA. The glass transition temperature (Tg) is found to increase from 181 °C to 195 °C. The char yield increases from 16% to 59.6% at 800 °C in a N2 atmosphere, which is higher than the calculated value based on the proportional principle. The AFM phase images show that there is no phase separation in the cured thermoset. The results imply that the cured epoxy/amine/phthalonitrile blend is probably a kind of copolymer. The real-time TG-MS indicated that the pyrolysis of the thermoset can be divided into two relatively independent stages, which can be assigned to the cleavage of the E51/DDS network, and the phthalocyanine/triazine/isoindoline, respectively.
The Contagion of Debt Default Risk in Energy Enterprises Considering Carbon Price Fluctuations
Authors: Wang Lei , Jiang Xuan , Chen Tingqiang , Zhu Ruirui
Published: September 2024

Under the constraints of low-carbon transformation goals, energy enterprises have significantly increased their debt default risk levels due to carbon price fluctuations. This article first analyzes the contagion mechanism of debt default risk among energy enterprises, and based on this, constructs a debt default risk contagion model among energy enterprises considering carbon price fluctuations, and then simulates and analyzes the evolution characteristics of debt default risk contagion among energy enterprises. The research results indicate that: (1) As the proportion of carbon emission cost increment and investor sentiment index increase, the stability of the debt network of energy enterprises strengthens. As the ratio of commercial credit among energy enterprises and influence of energy enterprises increase, the impact of debt risk gradually intensifies. (2) The investor sentiment index has a strengthening effect on the influence of energy enterprises, the proportion of commercial credit among energy enterprises, and the proportion of carbon emission cost increment. The commercial credit ratio between energy enterprises and its influence has a mutually reinforcing effect. (3) The investor sentiment index has suppressed debt default risk for various energy enterprises. The joint risk suppression effect of the proportion of carbon emission cost increment and the influence of energy enterprises in petroleum and petrochemical enterprises is more prominent. The joint risk constraint ability between the proportion of carbon emission cost increment and investor sentiment index in coal enterprises is stronger.
Potential Impacts of Prolonged Face Mask Use on Temporomandibular Joint Health as Neglected Lifestyle Repercussions of COVID-19 Pandemic—A Narrative Review
Authors: Pietrzyk Szymon Jozef , Kielczynska Emilia , Kowalczyk Martyna , Mazurek Mateusz , Domagala Zygmunt Antoni
Published: September 2024

Since December 2019, COVID-19 has rapidly spread worldwide, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a pandemic and advocate for the widespread use of face masks to mitigate transmission. In this review, we delve into the potential impact of prolonged face mask use on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health, an area that has garnered limited attention amidst COVID-19 research. Research has revealed that improper mask fit and constant readjustment can lead to TMJ abnormalities. Similarly, there is a demonstrated correlation between continuous mask usage and an increased incidence of headaches, temporomandibular pain, and diminished quality of life. Many studies have highlighted discomfort in the preauricular area, headaches, TMJ noises, headache, jaw pain, and muscle fatigue, as well as dermatological disorders, which have been attributed to prolonged mask wear and its impact on TMJ health. Our study catalyzes future research endeavors, urging a deeper exploration of the implications of long-term mask wear, not only in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic but also among occupational groups regularly exposed to extended mask use. By unraveling the complexities of TMJ health in the face of evolving preventive measures, we aim to enhance our understanding of this issue and safeguard the well-being of mask-wearers worldwide.
Evaluation of MELD Scores and Thyroid Hormones as Prognostic Factors of Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Belu Anca M. , Nicoara Alina D. , Belu Daniela M. , Circo Eduard
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: Hepatic cirrhosis is a disease with an increasing frequency globally, but its mechanisms of disease development are not yet completely known. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between thyroid hormone levels (T3, fT4, and TSH) and survival in patients with chronic liver disease. Materials and Methods: A total of 419 patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis were included in the study. The MELD score was computed, and TSH, T3, and fT4 were collected from each patient using the ELISA procedure. Signs and symptoms of liver failure and portal hypertension confirmed the clinical diagnosis of liver cirrhosis, and biological tests and imaging methods confirmed the diagnosis. Results: The MELD score was positively associated with TSH on admission and TSH on discharge and negatively associated with T3 at discharge. TSH levels were higher in non-survivors than in survivors. The values of T3 and fT4 present no significant changes to be considered as prognostic factors. Conclusions: Although the differences between the median TSH values of the patients who died and those who survived are not very large, the statistical significance of the data obtained demonstrates that there are changes in metabolism of the thyroid hormones during the progression of liver cirrhosis. It is possible that TSH is the one which maintains the normal balance of thyroid activity for patients with liver cirrhosis, so it can be considered as an important marker of evolution of these patients.
Diagnostic Roles of α-Methylacyl-CoA Racemase (AMACR) Immunohistochemistry in Gastric Dysplasia and Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Pyo Jung-Soo , Min Kyeung-Whan , Choi Ji-Eun , Kang Dong-Wook
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the diagnostic role of α-Methylacyl-CoA racemase (AMACR) immunohistochemistry in gastric dysplasia and adenocarcinoma. Materials and Methods: Immunohistochemistry for AMACR was performed on 39 gastric dysplasia and 40 gastric adenocarcinoma cases. The expression patterns of AMACR were investigated and divided into luminal and cytoplasmic expression patterns in the gastric lesions. In addition, correlations between AMACR expression and patient age, sex, and tumor size were evaluated. Results: AMACR was expressed in 26 of 39 cases of gastric dysplasia (66.7%) and 17 of 40 cases of gastric adenocarcinomas (42.5%). The AMACR expression rates in high- and low-grade dysplasia were 80.0% and 52.6%, respectively. A detailed analysis of the expression patterns revealed that the luminal expression pattern was significantly higher in low-grade dysplasia than in high-grade dysplasia and gastric adenocarcinoma (p < 0.001). The cytoplasmic expression pattern, without luminal expression, was predominant in high-grade dysplasia and gastric adenocarcinoma. In addition, the rates of loss of expression in the overall area were 15.1 ± 23.9%, 49.0 ± 29.9%, and 59.0 ± 32.2% in low-grade dysplasia, high-grade dysplasia, and gastric adenocarcinoma, respectively. The negative rate of low-grade dysplasia was significantly lower than that of high-grade dysplasia and gastric adenocarcinoma (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: AMACR is a useful diagnostic marker for differentiating low-grade dysplasia from high-grade dysplasia and gastric adenocarcinoma. Luminal or cytoplasmic expression patterns and the extent of loss of expression are important for differentiation.
Study on the Influence of Mandrel Speed on the Titanium Tube Continuous Retained-Mandrel Rolling Process
Authors: Li Chao , Shuang Yuanhua , Chen Jianxun , Wu Tao
Published: September 2024

The continuous retained-mandrel rolling process is a promising method for titanium tube production with high efficiency and a short process. The importance of mandrel as a deformation tool supporting the inner wall is crucial. This paper thoroughly examines the influence of mandrel velocity on the deformation characteristics at the groove vertex using three approaches: numerical simulation, shear-deformation observation experiments, and microstructure analysis. The following conclusions are drawn: Decreasing the mandrel velocity enhances the penetration of shear deformation into the inner wall of the titanium tube, improves thickness uniformity, and shifts the deformation mechanism near the inner wall from twinning to dislocation slip. As a result, the volume fraction of recrystallization increases from 18.4% to 42.3%. However, the mean shear strain increases first and then decreases to a certain value as the mandrel speed decreases, which is attributed to the combined influence of the cross-shear zone and the rolling force.
The Endogenous Inhibitor of CETP, apoC1, Remains Ineffective In Vivo after Correction of Hyperglycemia in People with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Rouland Alexia , Gautier Thomas , Denimal Damien , Duvillard Laurence , Simoneau Isabelle , Rageot David , Vergès Bruno , Bouillet Benjamin
Published: September 2024

ApolipoproteinC1 (apoC1) is the main physiological inhibitor of the cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP). Increased CETP activity is associated with macrovascular complications in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). ApoC1 has lost its ability to inhibit CETP in patients with T1D, and in vitro glycation of apoC1 increases CETP activity, suggesting that hyperglycemia could be a factor implicated in the loss of the inhibitory effect of apoC1 on CETP. Thus, we aimed to see whether improvement of glycemic control might restore apoC1 inhibitory effect on CETP. We studied 98 patients with T1D and HbA1c > 9% at baseline and 3 months after improvement of glycemic control by a medical intervention (insulin introduction or changes in multi-injection therapy or pump therapy introduction/therapeutic education for all patients). CETP activity was assessed by a radioactive method and plasma apoC1 levels were measured by ELISA. The different isoforms of apoC1 were determined by mass spectrometry. CETP activity was not significantly modified after improvement of glycemic control, despite a significant reduction in mean HbA1c (8.7 ± 1.7 vs. 10.8 ± 2, p < 0.0001). No association between plasma apoC1 and CETP activity was observed in patients with T1D at baseline, nor at 3 months, even in the subgroup of patients with optimal control (3-month HbA1c < 7%). We did not find any glycated form of apoC1 using mass spectrometry in people with T1D. Hyperglycemia in vivo does not seem to be a major factor implicated in the loss of apoC1 ability to inhibit CETP activity observed in T1D. Other factors, such as qualitative abnormalities of lipoproteins, could be involved. Our data emphasize the fact that hyperglycemia is not the only factor involved in lipid abnormalities and macrovascular complications in T1D. Clinical trial reg. no. NCT02816099 ClinicalTrials.gov.
Fit-for-Purpose Model of HP500 Cone Crusher in Size Reduction of Itabirite Iron Ore
Authors: Rocha Brena Karolyne Nunes da , Campos Túlio Moreira , Silva Júlio , Tavares Luís Marcelo
Published: September 2024

Cone crushers have a central role in the processing of quarry rocks, besides coarser ore preparation in several mineral processing plants. This is particularly true in the case of Itabirite iron ore preparation plants in Brazil, so optimizing their performance is of central importance for reaching maximum productivity of the circuit. The work presents results of modeling the HP500 cone crusher in operation in an industrial plant in Brazil (Minas Rio), from surveys carried out over a few years with different feeds and crushing conditions. A version of the Andersen–Whiten cone crusher model was implemented in the Integrated Extraction Simulator featuring a non-normalizable breakage response and a fit-for-purpose throughput model. The results demonstrate the good ability of the model to predict crusher performance when dealing with different closed-side settings and feed size distributions.
Olive Leaves as a Source of Anticancer Compounds: In Vitro Evidence and Mechanisms
Authors: Pessoa Heloisa Rodrigues , Zago Lilia , Difonzo Graziana , Pasqualone Antonella , Caponio Francesco , Ferraz da Costa Danielly C.
Published: September 2024

Olive trees not only produce olives but also generate a substantial amount of waste and by-products, including leaves, pomace (the solid remains after pressing olives for oil), and wastewater from the olive oil-making process. The waste products, particularly the leaves, contain bioactive compounds, especially phenolic compounds, known for their health benefits, such as high antioxidant potential and the ability to reduce inflammation. These compounds have shown promise in preventing and treating cancer. This review, based on in vitro evidence, provides a detailed description and discussion of the mechanisms through which these compounds from olive leaves can prevent development, the ways they might act against cancer cells, and their potential to increase the sensitivity of tumor cells to conventional anticancer therapy. The possible synergistic effects of these compounds suggest that olive leaf extracts may offer a promising approach for cancer treatment, compared with isolated compounds, thus providing novel possibilities for cancer therapy.
Efficient and Near-Zero Thermal Quenching Cr3+-Doped Garnet-Type Phosphor for High-Performance Near-Infrared Light-Emitting Diode Applications
Authors: Yang Zaifa
Published: September 2024

In recent years, near-infrared (NIR) phosphors have attracted great research interest due to their unique physical properties and broad application prospects. However, obtaining NIR phosphors with both high quantum efficiency and excellent thermal stability remains a great challenge. In this study, novel NIR Ca3Mg2ZrGe3O12:Cr3+ phosphors were successfully prepared using a high-temperature solid-phase method, and the structure and luminescent properties of the material were systematically investigated. Ca3Mg2ZrGe3O12:0.01Cr3+ emits NIR light in the range of 600 to 900 nm with a peak at 758 nm and a half-height width of 89 nm under the excitation of 457 nm blue light. NIR luminescence shows considerable quantum efficiency, and the internal quantum efficiency of the optimized sample is up to 68.7%. Remarkably, the Ca3Mg2ZrGe3O12:0.01Cr3+ phosphor exhibits a near-zero thermal quenching behavior, and the luminescence intensity of the sample at 250 °C maintains 92% of its intensity at room temperature. The mechanism of high thermal stability has been elucidated by calculating the Huang Kun factor and activation energy. Finally, NIR pc-LED devices prepared from Ca3Mg2ZrGe3O12:0.01Cr3+ phosphor with commercial blue LED chips have good performance, proving that this Ca3Mg2ZrGe3O12:0.01Cr3+ NIR phosphor has potential applications in night vision and biomedical imaging.
Inhibitory Effect of Sorbus aucuparia Extracts on the Fusarium proliferatum and F. culmorum Growth and Mycotoxin Biosynthesis
Authors: Ryszczyńska Sylwia , Gumulak-Wołoszyn Natalia , Urbaniak Monika , Stępień Łukasz , Bryła Marcin , Twarużek Magdalena , Waśkiewicz Agnieszka
Published: September 2024

Fungal infections are among the most common diseases of crop plants. Various species of the Fusarium spp. are naturally prevalent and globally cause the qualitative and quantitative losses of farming commodities, mainly cereals, fruits, and vegetables. In addition, Fusarium spp. can synthesize toxic secondary metabolites—mycotoxins under high temperature and humidity conditions. Among the strategies against Fusarium spp. incidence and mycotoxins biosynthesis, the application of biological control, specifically natural plant extracts, has proved to be one of the solutions as an alternative to chemical treatments. Notably, rowanberries taken from Sorbus aucuparia are a rich source of phytochemicals, such as vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, as well as minerals, including iron, potassium, and magnesium, making them promising candidates for biological control strategies. The study aimed to investigate the effect of rowanberry extracts obtained by supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) under different conditions on the growth of Fusarium (F. culmorum and F. proliferatum) and mycotoxin biosynthesis. The results showed that various extracts had different effects on Fusarium growth as well as ergosterol content and mycotoxin biosynthesis. These findings suggest that rowanberry extracts obtained by the SFE method could be a natural alternative to synthetic fungicides for eradicating Fusarium pathogens in crops, particularly cereal grains. However, more research is necessary to evaluate their efficacy against other Fusarium species and in vivo applications.
Correction: Thierry et al. Observation of Hyperpositive Non-Linear Effect in Asymmetric Organozinc Alkylation in Presence of N-Pyrrolidinyl Norephedrine. Molecules 2022, 27, 3780
Authors: Thierry Thibault , Geiger Yannick , Bellemin-Laponnaz Stéphane
Published: September 2024

The authors wish to make the following correction to their paper [...]
Unraveling the Impacts of Germination on the Volatile and Fatty Acid Profile of Intermediate Wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium) Seeds
Authors: Oliveira Wellington S. , Chen Qianqian , Edleman Dana , Annor George A. , Dias Fernanda F. G.
Published: September 2024

Intermediate wheatgrass (IWG) is a promising perennial grain explored for mainstream food applications. This study investigated the effects of different germination temperatures (10, 15, and 20 °C) and durations (2, 4, and 6 days) on IWG’s volatile and fatty acid (FA) profiles. A method using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) was optimized through response surface design to extract the volatile compounds, achieving ideal extraction conditions at 60 °C for 55 min. Multiple headspace extraction (MHE) was used for volatile compound quantification. Fifty-eight compounds were identified and quantified in IWG flour, mainly alcohols, aldehydes, hydrocarbons, terpenes, esters, organic acids, and ketones. The main FAs found were linoleic acid (C18:2), oleic acid (C18:1), palmitic acid (C16:0), and linolenic acid (C18:3). Principal component analysis showed a direct correlation between volatile oxidation products and FA composition. Germination at 15 °C for 6 days led to a reduced presence of aldehydes and alcohols such as nonanal and 1-pentanol. Therefore, optimized germination was successful in reducing the presence of potential off-odor compounds. This study provides valuable insights into the effects of germination on IWG flour, showing a way for its broader use in food applications.
Integration of Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Reveals the Antitumor Mechanism of Protopanaxadiol Triphenylphosphate Derivative in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Han Liu , Bian Xingbo , Ma Xiangyu , Ren Ting , Li Yawei , Huang Lijing , Tang Zebo , Gao Liancong , Chang Sheng , Sun Xin
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to enhance the membrane permeability and anticancer effectiveness of (20S)-protopanaxadiol (PPD) by introducing triphenylphosphonium into the OH group at the C-3 site. This study shows that the anti-proliferation activity of CTPPPPD, with an IC50 value of 1.65 ± 0.10 μmol/L, was 33-times better than that of PPD (with an IC50 value of 54.56 ± 4.56 μmol/L) and superior to that of cisplatin (with an IC50 value of 1.82 ± 0.25 μmol/L) against A549 cells. Biological examinations suggested that CTPPPPD treatment reduced the growth rate of A549 cells, increased the permeability of cell membranes, and changed the structure of chromosomal DNA in a concentration-dependent manner. Annexin V/PI assay and flow cytometry were employed to detect the effect of CTPPPPD on the apoptosis of A549 cells. The results showed that CTPPPPD could induce the apoptosis of A549 cells, and the apoptosis rate of A549 cells treated with 0, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 μM of CTPPPPD for 24 h was 0%, 4.9%, 12.7%, and 31.0%, respectively. The integration of transcriptomics and metabolomics provided a systematic and detailed perspective on the induced antitumor mechanisms. A combined analysis of DEGs and DAMs suggested that they were primarily involved in the central carbon metabolism pathway in cancer, as well as the metabolism of aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate. Central carbon metabolism in cancer-related genes, i.e., SLC16A3, FGFR3, LDHA, PGAM1, and SLC2A1, significantly reduced after treatment with CTPPPPD. In particular, the dominant mechanism responsible for total antitumor activity may be attributed to perturbations in the PI3K-AKT, MAPK, and P53 pathways. The findings derived from transcriptomics and metabolomics were empirically confirmed through q-PCR and molecular docking. Further analyses revealed that CTPPPPD could be a promising lead for the development of protopanaxadiol for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) drugs.
Polyamine Derived Photosensitizer: A Novel Approach for Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Deng Hao , Xie Ke , Hu Liling , Liu Xiaowen , Li Qingyun , Xie Donghui , Xiang Fengyi , Liu Wei , Zheng Weihong , Xiao Shuzhang , Zheng Jun , Tan Xiao
Published: September 2024

Polyamines play a pivotal role in cancer cell proliferation. The excessive polyamine requirement of these malignancies is satisfied through heightened biosynthesis and augmented extracellular uptake via the polyamine transport system (PTS) present on the cell membrane. Meanwhile, photodynamic therapy (PDT) emerges as an effective anti-cancer treatment devoid of drug resistance. Recognizing these intricacies, our study devised a novel polyamine-derived photosensitizer (PS) for targeted photodynamic treatment, focusing predominantly on pancreatic cancer cells. We synthesized and evaluated novel spermine-derived fluorescent probes (N2) and PS (N3), exhibiting selectivity towards pancreatic cancer cells via PTS. N3 showed minimal dark toxicity but significant phototoxicity upon irradiation, effectively causing cell death in vitro. A significant reduction in tumor volume was observed post-treatment with no pronounced dark toxicity using the pancreatic cancer CDX mouse model, affirming the therapeutic potential of N3. Overall, our findings introduce a promising new strategy for cancer treatment, highlighting the potential of polyamine-derived PSs in PDT.
Recent Progress on Covalent Organic Frameworks Supporting Metal Nanoparticles as Promising Materials for Nitrophenol Reduction
Authors: Dinari Mohammad , Golshadi Zaynab , Asadi Parvin , Norton Amie E. , Reid Katelyn R. , Karimi Benson
Published: September 2024

With the utilization of nitrophenols in manufacturing various materials and the expansion of industry, nitrophenols have emerged as water pollutants that pose significant risks to both humans and the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to convert nitrophenols into aminophenols, which are less toxic. This conversion process is achieved through the use of noble metal nanoparticles, such as gold, silver, copper, and palladium. The primary challenge with noble metal nanoparticles lies in their accumulation and deactivation, leading to a decrease in catalyst activity. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are materials characterized by a crystalline structure, good stability, and high porosity with active sites. These properties make them ideal substrates for noble metal nanoparticles, enhancing catalytic activity. This overview explores various articles that focus on the synthesis of catalysts containing noble metal nanoparticles attached to COFs as substrates to reduce nitrophenols to aminophenols.
High-Impact AMPAkines Elevate Calcium Levels in Cortical Astrocytes by Mobilizing Endoplasmic Reticular Calcium Stores
Authors: Radin Daniel P. , Cerne Rok , Witkin Jeffrey , Lippa Arnold
Published: September 2024

Ampakines—positive allosteric modulators of AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs)—are drug candidates that have shown substantial promise in pre-clinical models of various neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Much of the study of ampakines has focused on how these drugs modulate neuronal AMPARs to achieve certain therapeutic effects. However, astrocytes also express functional AMPARs and their physiology may be sensitive to modulation by ampakines. Herein, we investigate the effects of multiple ampakines on calcium levels in cortical astrocytes. We find that ampakines augment cytosolic calcium elevations in astrocytes to an extent far greater than that achieved by AMPA alone. This effect is amenable to competitive AMPAR blockade. Furthermore, calcium induction is sensitive to phospholipase Cβ antagonism and blockade of inositol triphosphate receptors located on the endoplasmic reticulum. Low-impact ampakines exerted weaker effects on cytosolic calcium levels in astrocytes and higher concentrations were required to observe an effect. Furthermore, high doses of the low-impact ampakine, CX717, were not toxic to cortical astrocytes at high concentrations, which may serve to differentiate low-impact ampakines from classical AMPAR positive modulators like cyclothiazide. As ampakines are further developed for clinical use, it would be prudent to determine the extent to and manner by which they affect astrocytes, as these effects may also underpin their therapeutic utility in CNS pathologies.
Evaluating Emotional Eating in Children from the Perspective of Parents: Psychometric Properties of the Parent Version of the Emotional Eating Scale Adapted for Children and Adolescents
Authors: Summers Emma , Limbers Christine A.
Published: September 2024

Background: Emotional eating is associated with adverse health outcomes in children, including elevated weight status. Currently, there is not a well-validated parent-report measure of emotional eating for young children. This study assessed the reliability and validity of the 10-item parent version of the Emotional Eating Scale Adapted for Children and Adolescents (EES-C) Short-Form. Methods: The participants were 207 parents and 144 children from the southern United States. They completed the parent- and child-report EES-C Short-Form and responded to measures related to child eating behaviors, mood, and gratitude. Results: The parent-report EES-C Short-Form demonstrated good internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.94). Test–retest reliability was also supported, as evidenced by a medium correlation (ICC = 0.56, p < 0.001) between parent-rated emotional eating across two time points. Additionally, the measure demonstrated a significant correlation with a scale of emotional overeating (r = 0.25, p < 0.001)—a theoretically related construct. Supporting discriminant validity, the measure was not significantly related to a measure of parent-reported gratitude (r = 0.07, p = 0.30). A unidimensional model provided good fit for the data (CFI = 0.997, SRMR = 0.046). Conclusions: The results from the current study provide preliminary evidence supporting the reliability and validity of the parent version of the EES-C Short-Form. For the purpose of screening children in school or primary care settings, the EES-C Short-Form may be practical and helpful in identifying children who may be at risk of developing adverse health outcomes or more-severe eating disorder pathology.