bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Search of Proximate Triggers of Anthrax Outbreaks in Wildlife: A Hypothetical Individual-Based Model of Plasmid Transfer within Bacillus Communities
Authors: Wang Hsiao-Hsuan , Bishop Alexandra E. , Koralewski Tomasz E. , Grant William E.
Published: March 2023

Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax in humans, livestock, and wildlife, exists in a community with hundreds of other species of bacteria in the environment. Work on the genetics of these communities has shown that B. anthracis shares a high percentage of chromosomal genes with both B. thuringiensis and B. cereus, and that phenotypic differences among these bacteria can result from extra-chromosomal DNA in the form of plasmids. We developed a simple hypothetical individual-based model to simulate the likelihood of detecting plasmids with genes encoding anthrax toxins within bacterial communities composed of B. anthracis, B. thuringiensis, and B. cereus, and the surrounding matrix of extra-cellular polymeric substances. Simulation results suggest the horizontal transfer of plasmids with genes encoding anthrax toxins among Bacillus species persisting outside the host could function as a proximate factor triggering anthrax outbreaks.
Fragmentation Level Drives Local Fish Assemblage Diversity Patterns in Fragmented River Basins
Authors: Díaz Gustavo , Górski Konrad , Manosalva Aliro , Toledo Bárbara , Habit Evelyn
Published: March 2023

Longitudinal connectivity is the main attribute of river ecosystems and is essential for the maintenance of aquatic biota. When longitudinal connectivity decreases in a river network, abundance of some fish species decreases, and local extinctions may occur. Such abundance decreases and extinctions affect local assemblage structure (alpha diversity) and result in a high degree of dissimilarity among local assemblages (higher beta diversity). Specific ecological mechanisms that are behind these biodiversity changes induced by connectivity loss remain poorly understood. Here, we assessed the effects of fragmentation at the local and basin level, as well as local environmental variables on local fish diversity patterns in eight Andean river basins in central Chile (32–39° S). The results indicated that fish assemblages inhabiting pool habitats in highly fragmented basins were characterized by significantly lower species richness and alpha diversity mainly driven by absence of fish species with high dispersion capacities. Our results highlight the importance of the effects of barrier cascades upstream as drivers of local native fish diversity. Sustainable hydropower development necessitates system scale planning of the placement of future barriers and should consider both local and basin scale biodiversity indicators.
Application of Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Risk Assessment of Lower Third Molar Surgery
Authors: Leung Yiu Yan , Hung Kuo Feng , Li Dion Tik Shun , Yeung Andy Wai Kan
Published: March 2023

Risks of lower third molar surgery like the inferior alveolar nerve injury may result in permanent consequences. Risk assessment is important prior to the surgery and forms part of the informed consent process. Traditionally, plain radiographs like orthopantomogram have been used routinely for this purpose. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has offered more information from the 3D images in the lower third molar surgery assessment. The proximity of the tooth root to the inferior alveolar canal, which harbours the inferior alveolar nerve, can be clearly identified on CBCT. It also allows the assessment of potential root resorption of the adjacent second molar as well as the bone loss at its distal aspect as a consequence of the third molar. This review summarized the application of CBCT in the risk assessment of lower third molar surgery and discussed how it could aid in the decision-making of high-risk cases to improve safety and treatment outcomes.
Sarcoma Botryoides: Optimal Therapeutic Management and Prognosis of an Unfavorable Malignant Neoplasm of Female Children
Authors: Margioula-Siarkou Chrysoula , Petousis Stamatios , Almperis Aristarchos , Margioula-Siarkou Georgia , Laganà Antonio Simone , Kourti Maria , Papanikolaou Alexios , Dinas Konstantinos
Published: March 2023

Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) is a rare malignancy and occurs primarily in the first two decades of life. Botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma is an aggressive subtype of ERMS that often manifests in the genital tract of female infants and children. Due to its rarity, the optimal treatment approach has been a matter of debate. We conducted a search in the PubMed database and supplemented it with a manual search to retrieve additional papers eligible for inclusion. We retrieved 13 case reports and case series, from which we summarized that the current trend is to approach each patient with a personalized treatment plan. This consists of a combination of local debulking surgery and adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). Effort is made in every approach to avoid radiation for the sake of preserving fertility. Radical surgeries and radiation still have a role to play in extensive disease and in cases of relapse. Despite the rarity and aggressiveness of this tumor, disease-free survival and overall prognosis is excellent, especially when it is diagnosed early, compared with other subtypes of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). We conclude that the practice of a multidisciplinary approach is appropriate, with favorable outcomes; however, larger-scale studies need to be organized to have a definite consensus on optimal management.
The “Black Box” Method for Experimental Economics
Authors: Nax Heinrich H.
Published: March 2023

How humans behave in repeated strategic interactions, how they learn, how their decisions adapt, and how their decision-making evolves is a topic of fundamental interest in behavioral economics and behavioral game theory [...]
Transcriptomic Studies on Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Morga Rafal , Pera Joanna
Published: March 2023

Intracranial aneurysm (IA) is a relatively common vascular malformation of an intracranial artery. In most cases, its presence is asymptomatic, but IA rupture causing subarachnoid hemorrhage is a life-threating condition with very high mortality and disability rates. Despite intensive studies, molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of IA formation, growth, and rupture remain poorly understood. There are no specific biomarkers of IA presence or rupture. Analysis of expression of mRNA and other RNA types offers a deeper insight into IA pathobiology. Here, we present results of published human studies on IA-focused transcriptomics.
An Agenda-Setting Account for Psychological Typhoon Eye Effect on Responses to the Outbreak of COVID-19 in Wuhan
Authors: Yang Shu-Wen , Xu Ming-Xing , Kuang Yi , Ding Yang , Lin Yu-Xin , Wang Fei , Rao Li-Lin , Zheng Rui , Li Shu
Published: March 2023

During the outbreak of COVID-19 in Wuhan in 2020, we conducted a nationwide survey of 8170 respondents from 31 provinces/municipalities in China via Sojump to examine the relationship between the distance to respondents’ city of residence from Wuhan and their safety concerns and risk perception of the epidemic that occurred in Wuhan City. We found that (1) the farther (psychologically or physically) people were from Wuhan, the more concerned they were with the safety of the epidemic risk in Wuhan, which we dubbed the psychological typhoon eye (PTE) effect on responses to the outbreak of COVID-19; (2) agenda setting can provide a principled account for such effect: the risk information proportion mediated the PTE effect. The theoretical and managerial implications for the PTE effect and public opinion disposal were discussed, and agenda setting was identified to be responsible for the preventable overestimated risk perception.
Quantitative Analysis of the Influence of the Xiaolangdi Reservoir on Water and Sediment in the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yellow River
Authors: Zhang Xianqi , Qiao Wenbao , Lu Yaohui , Huang Jiafeng , Xiao Yimeng
Published: March 2023

The Xiaolangdi Reservoir is the second largest water conservancy project in China and the last comprehensive water conservancy hub on the mainstream of the Yellow River, playing a vital role in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River. To study the effects of the construction of the Xiaolangdi Reservoir (1997–2001) on the runoff and sediment transport in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, runoff and sediment transport data from 1963 to 2021 were based on the hydrological stations of Huayuankou, Gaocun, and Lijin. The unevenness coefficient, cumulative distance level method, Mann-Kendall test method, and wavelet transform method were used to analyze the runoff and sediment transport in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River at different time scales. The results of the study reveal that the completion of the Xiaolangdi Reservoir in the interannual range has little impact on the runoff in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River and a significant impact on sediment transport. The interannual runoff volumes of Huayuankou station, Gaocun station, and Lijin station were reduced by 20.1%, 20.39%, and 32.87%, respectively. In addition, the sediment transport volumes decreased by 90.03%, 85.34%, and 83.88%, respectively. It has a great influence on the monthly distribution of annual runoff. The annual runoff distribution is more uniform, increasing the runoff in the dry season, reducing the runoff in the wet season, and bringing forward the peak flow. The runoff and Sediment transport have obvious periodicity. After the operation of the Xiaolangdi Reservoir, the main cycle of runoff increases and the second main cycle disappears. The main cycle of Sediment transport did not change obviously, but the closer it was to the estuary, the less obvious the cycle was. The research results can provide a reference for ecological protection and high-quality development in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River.
Investigating the Spatial Relationship between Social Vulnerability and Healthcare Facility Distribution in Nassau County, New York
Authors: Jones Alea , Nnadi Ijeoma , Centeno Kelly , Molina Giselle , Nasir Rida , Granger Gina G. , Mercado Nicholas R. , Ault-Brutus Andrea A. , Hackett Martine , Karaye Ibraheem M.
Published: March 2023

Health is a fundamental human right, yet healthcare facilities are not distributed equitably across all communities. This study aims to investigate the distribution of healthcare facilities in Nassau County, New York, and examine whether the distribution is equitable across different social vulnerability levels. An optimized hotspot analysis was conducted on a dataset of 1695 healthcare facilities—dental, dialysis, ophthalmic, and urgent care—in Nassau County, and social vulnerability was measured using the FPIS codes. The study found that healthcare facilities were disproportionately distributed in the county, with a higher concentration in areas of low social vulnerability compared to areas of high social vulnerability. The majority of healthcare facilities were found to be clustered in two ZIP codes—11020 and 11030—that rank among the top ten wealthiest in the county. The results of this study suggest that socially vulnerable residents in Nassau County are at a disadvantage when it comes to attaining equitable access to healthcare facilities. The distribution pattern highlights the need for interventions to improve access to care for marginalized communities and to address the underlying determinants of healthcare facility segregation in the county.
Modeling the Impact of Fiscal Decentralization on Energy Poverty: Do Energy Efficiency and Technological Innovation Matter?
Authors: Wang Yaru , Qiao Guitao , Ahmad Mahmood , Yang Dan
Published: March 2023

As an important factor affecting economic and social development, energy poverty (EP) has received widespread concern, and many countries have actively proposed policies to eliminate energy poverty. The purpose of this paper is to clarify the current situation of energy poverty in China, explore the factors that affect energy poverty, find sustainable and effective approaches to alleviate energy poverty, and provide empirical evidence for eliminating energy poverty. This research investigates the effect of fiscal decentralization (FD), industrial structure upgrading (ISU), energy efficiency (EE), and technological innovation (TI), as well as urbanization (URB) on energy poverty using a balanced dataset of 30 provinces in China from 2004 to 2017. The empirical outcomes revealed that fiscal decentralization, industrial upgrading, energy efficiency, and technological innovation significantly reduce energy poverty. Moreover, urbanization is positively and significantly correlated with energy poverty. The outcomes further revealed that fiscal decentralization significantly increases the residents’ access to clean energy and drives energy management agencies and infrastructure. In addition, the heterogeneity analysis results indicate that the effect of fiscal decentralization in reducing energy poverty is greater in regions with high economic development. Finally, mediation analysis denotes that fiscal decentralization indirectly reduces energy poverty by promoting technological innovation and energy efficiency. Finally, based on the results, policy suggestions for eradicating energy poverty are proposed from the perspective of implementing targeted energy alleviation policies reasonably dividing the rights and responsibilities of local and central governments and encouraging scientific and technological innovation.
Numerical Simulation Study on Spatial Diffusion Behavior of Non-Point Source Fugitive Dust under Different Enclosure Heights
Authors: Guo Jinjun , Lin Weiqi , Li Hao , Zhang Zhongshan , Qin Xiangnan
Published: March 2023

Non-point source fugitive dust produced during municipal road construction is one of the main ambient air pollutants gravely threatening the life and health of construction workers and residents around construction areas. In this study, a gas-solid two-phase flow model is used to simulate the diffusion behavior of non-point source dust with different enclosure heights under wind loads. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of the enclosure on the diffusion of non-point source dust from construction to residential areas is analyzed. The results show that the physical blocking and reflux effects of the enclosure can effectively restrain dust diffusion. When the enclosure height is 3–3.5 m, the concentration of particulate matter in most sections of residential areas can be reduced to less than 40 μg/m3. Moreover, when the wind speed is 1–5 m/s and the enclosure height is 2–3.5 m, the diffusion height of non-point source dust particles above the enclosure is concentrated in the range 1.5–2 m. This study provides a scientific basis for setting the heights of enclosures and atomization sprinklers at construction sites. Further, effective measures are proposed to reduce the impact of non-point source dust on the air environment of residential areas and health of residents.
Responsiveness of the Arabic Upper Extremity Functional Index in Patients with Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Alnahdi Ali H.
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to examine the ability of the Arabic Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI) to detect change over time in upper extremity function (responsiveness) in patients with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders. Patients receiving physical therapy care for their upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders completed the Arabic UEFI; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH); Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS); Global Assessment of Function (GAF); and the Global Rating of Change Scale (GRC) at the initial visit and later at a follow-up assessment. Responsiveness was examined by testing predefined hypotheses regarding the correlations between the change scores in the Arabic UEFI and the other measures. The Arabic UEFI change scores demonstrated a significant positive correlation with the change in the DASH (r = 0.94), GAF (r = 0.65), NPRS (r = 0.63), and GRC (r = 0.73), which was in line with the predefined hypotheses. The Arabic UEFI change scores demonstrated a pattern of correlation with changes in other outcome measures that are consistent with the argument that the Arabic UEFI change scores represent a change in upper extremity function. The responsiveness of the Arabic UEFI was supported, and its use to monitor changes in upper extremity function in patients with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders was supported.
Spatial Distribution of COVID-19 Hospitalizations and Associated Risk Factors in Health Insurance Data Using Bayesian Spatial Modelling
Authors: Kauhl Boris , König Jörg , Wolf Sandra
Published: March 2023

The onset of COVID-19 across the world has elevated interest in geographic information systems (GIS) for pandemic management. In Germany, however, most spatial analyses remain at the relatively coarse level of counties. In this study, we explored the spatial distribution of COVID-19 hospitalizations in health insurance data of the AOK Nordost health insurance. Additionally, we explored sociodemographic and pre-existing medical conditions associated with hospitalizations for COVID-19. Our results clearly show strong spatial dynamics of COVID-19 hospitalizations. The main risk factors for hospitalization were male sex, being unemployed, foreign citizenship, and living in a nursing home. The main pre-existing diseases associated with hospitalization were certain infectious and parasitic diseases, diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs, endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases, diseases of the nervous system, diseases of the circulatory system, diseases of the respiratory system, diseases of the genitourinary and symptoms, and signs and findings not classified elsewhere.
Metal–Organic Framework (MOF) Derivatives as Promising Chemiresistive Gas Sensing Materials: A Review
Authors: Wei Huijie , Zhang Huiyan , Song Bing , Yuan Kaiping , Xiao Hongbin , Cao Yunyi , Cao Qi
Published: March 2023

The emission of harmful gases has seriously exceeded relative standards with the rapid development of modern industry, which has shown various negative impacts on human health and the natural environment. Recently, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)-based materials have been widely used as chemiresistive gas sensing materials for the sensitive detection and monitoring of harmful gases such as NOx, H2S, and many volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In particular, the derivatives of MOFs, which are usually semiconducting metal oxides and oxide–carbon composites, hold great potential to prompt the surface reactions with analytes and thus output amplified resistance changing signals of the chemiresistors, due to their high specific surface areas, versatile structural tunability, diversified surface architectures, as well as their superior selectivity. In this review, we introduce the recent progress in applying sophisticated MOFs-derived materials for chemiresistive gas sensors, with specific emphasis placed on the synthesis and structural regulation of the MOF derivatives, and the promoted surface reaction mechanisms between MOF derivatives and gas analytes. Furthermore, the practical application of MOF derivatives for chemiresistive sensing of NO2, H2S, and typical VOCs (e.g., acetone and ethanol) has been discussed in detail.
Effects of PM2.5 Exposure on the ACE/ACE2 Pathway: Possible Implication in COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Botto Laura , Lonati Elena , Russo Stefania , Cazzaniga Emanuela , Bulbarelli Alessandra , Palestini Paola
Published: March 2023

Particulate matter (PM) is a harmful component of urban air pollution and PM2.5, in particular, can settle in the deep airways. The RAS system plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of pollution-induced inflammatory diseases: the ACE/AngII/AT1 axis activates a pro-inflammatory pathway counteracted by the ACE2/Ang(1-7)/MAS axis, which in turn triggers an anti-inflammatory and protective pathway. However, ACE2 acts also as a receptor through which SARS-CoV-2 penetrates host cells to replicate. COX-2, HO-1, and iNOS are other crucial proteins involved in ultrafine particles (UFP)-induced inflammation and oxidative stress, but closely related to the course of the COVID-19 disease. BALB/c male mice were subjected to PM2.5 sub-acute exposure to study its effects on ACE2 and ACE, COX-2, HO-1 and iNOS proteins levels, in the main organs concerned with the pathogenesis of COVID-19. The results obtained show that sub-acute exposure to PM2.5 induces organ-specific modifications which might predispose to greater susceptibility to severe symptomatology in the case of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The novelty of this work consists in using a molecular study, carried out in the lung but also in the main organs involved in the disease, to analyze the close relationship between exposure to pollution and the pathogenesis of COVID-19.
Intensity of Depression Symptoms Is Negatively Associated with Catalase Activity in Master Athletes
Authors: Maciel Larissa Alves , Leite Patrício Lopes de Araújo , Santos Patrick Anderson , Barbosa Lucas Pinheiro , Gutierrez Sara Duarte , Deus Lysleine Alves , Araújo Márcia Cristiane , Aguiar Samuel da Silva , Rosa Thiago Santos , Lewis John E. , Simões Herbert Gustavo
Published: March 2023

Background: This study examined associations between scores of depression (DEPs), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activity (CAT) in master athletes and untrained controls. Methods: Participants were master sprinters (MS, n = 24; 50.31 ± 6.34 year), endurance runners (ER, n = 11; 51.35 ± 9.12 year), untrained middle-aged (CO, n = 13; 47.21 ± 8.61 year), and young untrained (YU, n = 15; 23.70 ± 4.02 year). CAT, SOD, and TBARS were measured in plasma using commercial kits. DEPs were measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II. An ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, Pearson’s, and Spearman’s correlations were applied, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Results: The CATs of MS and YU [760.4 U·μL 1 ± 170.1 U·μL 1 and 729.9 U·μL 1 ± 186.9 U·μL 1] were higher than CO and ER. The SOD levels in the YU and ER [84.20 U·mL−1 ± 8.52 U·mL−1 and 78.24 U·mL−1 ± 6.59 U·mL−1 (p < 0.0001)] were higher than CO and MS. The TBARS in CO [11.97 nmol·L−1 ± 2.35 nmol·L−1 (p < 0.0001)] was higher than in YU, MS and ER. MS had lower DEPs compared to the YU [3.60 ± 3.66 vs. 12.27 ± 9.27 (p = 0.0002)]. A negative correlation was found between CAT and DEPs for master athletes [r = −0.3921 (p = 0.0240)] and a weak correlation [r = −0.3694 (p = 0.0344)] was found between DEPs and the CAT/TBARS ratio. Conclusions: In conclusion, the training model of master sprinters may be an effective strategy for increasing CAT and reducing DEPs.
Visual Cortical Plasticity: Molecular Mechanisms as Revealed by Induction Paradigms in Rodents
Authors: Ribeiro Francisco M. , Castelo-Branco Miguel , Gonçalves Joana , Martins João
Published: March 2023

Assessing the molecular mechanism of synaptic plasticity in the cortex is vital for identifying potential targets in conditions marked by defective plasticity. In plasticity research, the visual cortex represents a target model for intense investigation, partly due to the availability of different in vivo plasticity-induction protocols. Here, we review two major protocols: ocular-dominance (OD) and cross-modal (CM) plasticity in rodents, highlighting the molecular signaling pathways involved. Each plasticity paradigm has also revealed the contribution of different populations of inhibitory and excitatory neurons at different time points. Since defective synaptic plasticity is common to various neurodevelopmental disorders, the potentially disrupted molecular and circuit alterations are discussed. Finally, new plasticity paradigms are presented, based on recent evidence. Stimulus-selective response potentiation (SRP) is one of the paradigms addressed. These options may provide answers to unsolved neurodevelopmental questions and offer tools to repair plasticity defects.
Alternative Polyadenylation Is a Novel Strategy for the Regulation of Gene Expression in Response to Stresses in Plants
Authors: Wu Jing , Ma Ligeng , Cao Ying
Published: March 2023

Precursor message RNA requires processing to generate mature RNA. Cleavage and polyadenylation at the 3′-end in the maturation of mRNA is one of key processing steps in eukaryotes. The polyadenylation (poly(A)) tail of mRNA is an essential feature that is required to mediate its nuclear export, stability, translation efficiency, and subcellular localization. Most genes have at least two mRNA isoforms via alternative splicing (AS) or alternative polyadenylation (APA), which increases the diversity of transcriptome and proteome. However, most previous studies have focused on the role of alternative splicing on the regulation of gene expression. In this review, we summarize the recent advances concerning APA in the regulation of gene expression and in response to stresses in plants. We also discuss the mechanisms for the regulation of APA for plants in the adaptation to stress responses, and suggest that APA is a novel strategy for the adaptation to environmental changes and response to stresses in plants.
An Early and Sustained Inflammatory State Induces Muscle Changes and Establishes Obesogenic Characteristics in Wistar Rats Exposed to the MSG-Induced Obesity Model
Authors: Zazula Matheus Felipe , Saraiva Diego Francis , Theodoro João Lucas , Maciel Mônica , Sepulveda Eliel Vieira dos Santos , Zanardini de Andrade Bárbara , Boaretto Mariana Laís , Maciel Jhyslayne Ignácia Hoff Nunes , Bronczek Gabriela Alves , Soares Gabriela Moreira , Sagae Schneider Sara Cristina , Bertolini Gladson Ricardo Flor , Torrejais Márcia Miranda , Ribeiro Lucinéia Fátima Chasko , Fernandes Luiz Claudio , Naliwaiko Katya
Published: March 2023

The model of obesity induced by monosodium glutamate cytotoxicity on the hypothalamic nuclei is widely used in the literature. However, MSG promotes persistent muscle changes and there is a significant lack of studies that seek to elucidate the mechanisms by which damage refractory to reversal is established. This study aimed to investigate the early and chronic effects of MSG induction of obesity upon systemic and muscular parameters of Wistar rats. The animals were exposed to MSG subcutaneously (4 mg·g−1 b.w.) or saline (1.25 mg·g−1 b.w.) daily from PND01 to PND05 (n = 24). Afterwards, in PND15, 12 animals were euthanized to determine the plasma and inflammatory profile and to assess muscle damage. In PND142, the remaining animals were euthanized, and samples for histological and biochemical analyses were obtained. Our results suggest that early exposure to MSG reduced growth, increased adiposity, and inducted hyperinsulinemia and a pro-inflammatory scenario. In adulthood, the following were observed: peripheral insulin resistance, increased fibrosis, oxidative distress, and a reduction in muscle mass, oxidative capacity, and neuromuscular junctions, increased fibrosis, and oxidative distress. Thus, we can conclude that the condition found in adult life and the difficulty restoring in the muscle profile is related to the metabolic damage established early on.
Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) Extract Prevents Neurodegeneration in the HFD Mouse Model by Modulating Astrocytes and Microglia Activation
Authors: Galizzi Giacoma , Deidda Irene , Amato Antonella , Calvi Pasquale , Terzo Simona , Caruana Luca , Scoglio Stefano , Mulè Flavia , Di Carlo Marta
Published: March 2023

Obesity and related metabolic dysfunctions are associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) is a cyanobacterium considered a suitable supplement for its nutritional profile and beneficial properties. The potential neuroprotective effect of an AFA extract, commercialized as KlamExtra®, including the two AFA extracts Klamin® and AphaMax®, in High-Fat Diet (HFD)-fed mice was explored. Three groups of mice were provided with a standard diet (Lean), HFD or HFD supplemented with AFA extract (HFD + AFA) for 28 weeks. Metabolic parameters, brain insulin resistance, expression of apoptosis biomarkers, modulation of astrocytes and microglia activation markers, and Aβ deposition were analyzed and compared in the brains of different groups. AFA extract treatment attenuated HFD-induced neurodegeneration by reducing insulin resistance and loss of neurons. AFA supplementation improved the expression of synaptic proteins and reduced the HFD-induced astrocytes and microglia activation, and Aβ plaques accumulation. Together, these outcomes indicate that regular intake of AFA extract could benefit the metabolic and neuronal dysfunction caused by HFD, decreasing neuroinflammation and promoting Aβ plaques clearance.
A Novel Strategy for Enhanced Sequestration of Protein-Bound Uremic Toxins Using Smart Hybrid Membranes
Authors: Lopes Madalena , Pires Rita F. , Faria Mónica , Bonifácio Vasco D. B.
Published: March 2023

Currently available hemodialysis (HD) membranes are unable to safely remove protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUTs), especially those bonded to human serum albumin (HSA). To overcome this issue, the prior administration of high doses of HSA competitive binders, such as ibuprofen (IBF), has been proposed as a complementary clinical protocol to increase HD efficiency. In this work, we designed and prepared novel hybrid membranes conjugated with IBF, thus avoiding its administration to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Two novel silicon precursors containing IBF were synthesized and, by the combination of a sol-gel reaction and the phase inversion technique, four monophasic hybrid integral asymmetric cellulose acetate/silica/IBF membranes in which silicon precursors are covalently bonded to the cellulose acetate polymer were produced. To prove IBF incorporation, methyl red dye was used as a model, thus allowing simple visual color control of the membrane fabrication and stability. These smart membranes may display a competitive behavior towards HSA, allowing the local displacement of PBUTs in future hemodialyzers.
Are Semiquantitative Methods Superior to Deauville Scoring in the Monitoring Therapy Response for Pediatric Hodgkin Lymphoma?
Authors: Ibrahim Firuz , Gabelloni Michela , Faggioni Lorenzo , Padma Subramanyam , Visakh Arun , Cioni Dania , Neri Emanuele
Published: March 2023

Tailoring treatment in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is paramount to maximize outcomes while avoiding unnecessary toxicity. We aimed to compare the performance of SUVmax reduction (ΔSUVmax%) and the PET ratio (rPET) versus the Deauville score (DS) for assessing the chemotherapy response in pediatric HL patients undergoing 18F-FDG PET-CT. Fifty-two patients with biopsy-proven HL (aged 8–16 years) were enrolled at baseline, interim (after the second or third chemotherapy round) and post-therapy (on completion of first-line chemotherapy). Interim and post-therapy DS, ΔSUVmax% and rPET were compared as response predictors. Patients were classified as responders or non-responders based on a 24-month clinical follow-up. Interim DS showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and diagnostic accuracy of 100%, 80.4%, 100%, 40% and 82.7%, respectively, in predicting the therapy response. Post-therapy DS showed a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of 66.7%, 97.8%, 95.7%, 80% and 94.2%, repsectively. Interim ΔSUVmax% showed a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of 83.3%, 82.6%, 97.4%, 38.5% and 82.7%, respectively, with a 56.3% cutoff. Post-therapy ΔSUVmax% showed a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of 83.3%, 84.8%, 97.5%, 41.7% and 84.6%, respectively, with a 76.8% cutoff. Compared to ΔSUVmax%, DS showed a significantly higher sensitivity, specificity (p < 0.05) and NPV (p < 0.01). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of rPET in predicting the therapy response at 24 months were 76.1%, 100%, 100%, 35.3% and 78.8%, respectively, with a cut-off of 1.31. DS and rPET showed comparable predictive performance (p > 0.58). In conclusion, DS is an easier method with better performance than ΔSUVmax% and rPET in predicting the chemotherapy response in pediatric HL patients.
Advances in Cystic Fibrosis Research in Qatar: A Commentary
Authors: Hammoudeh Samer , Janahi Ibrahim A.
Published: March 2023

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder caused by a Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene defect. Many across the globe suffer the debilitating symptoms. The aim of this commentary is to briefly cover various aspects related to the disease in the Arab world and then in Qatar.
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Magnetic Seizure Therapy and Electroconvulsive Therapy for Depression: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cai Dong-Bin , Yang Xin-Hu , Shi Zhan-Ming , Nie Sha , Xu Rui , Qin Xiu-De , Huang Xiong , Huang Xing-Bing , Zheng Wei
Published: March 2023

Objectives: As a new physical therapeutic technique, magnetic seizure therapy (MST) has established efficacy in the treatment of depression with few cognitive side effects, and thus appears to be a potential alternative to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The findings of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy and safety of MST versus ECT for depression are inconsistent. This systematic review of RCTs was designed with the aim of assessing the safety and efficacy of MST versus ECT for patients with depression. Methods: The WanFang, Chinese Journal Net (CNKI), EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO databases were systematically searched by three independent investigators, from their inceptions to July 24, 2021. Results: In total, four RCTs (n = 86) were included and analyzed. Meta-analyses of study-defined response (risk ratio (RR) = 1.36; 95% CI = 0.78 to 2.36; p = 0.28; I2 = 0%), study-defined remission (RR = 1.17; 95% CI = 0.61 to 2.23; p = 0.64; I2 = 0%), and the improvement in depressive symptoms (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.21; 95% CI = −0.29 to 0.71; p = 0.42; I2 = 0%) did not present significant differences between MST and ECT. Three RCTs evaluated the cognitive effects of MST compared with ECT using different cognitive measuring tools, but with mixed findings. Only two RCTs reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs), but these lacked specific data. Only one RCT reported discontinuation due to any reason. Conclusions: This preliminary study suggests that MST appears to have a similar antidepressant effect as ECT for depression, but mixed findings on adverse cognitive effects were reported.
Functionally Significant Variants in Genes Associated with Abdominal Obesity: A Review
Authors: Bairqdar Ahmad , Ivanoshchuk Dinara , Shakhtshneider Elena
Published: March 2023

The high prevalence of obesity and of its associated diseases is a major problem worldwide. Genetic predisposition and the influence of environmental factors contribute to the development of obesity. Changes in the structure and functional activity of genes encoding adipocytokines are involved in the predisposition to weight gain and obesity. In this review, variants in genes associated with adipocyte function are examined, as are variants in genes associated with metabolic aberrations and the accompanying disorders in visceral obesity.
Considerations for Satisfactory Sedation during Dental Implant Surgery
Authors: Ito Takaya , Utsumi Nozomi , Baba Yukiko , Matsumura Tomoka , Wakita Ryo , Maeda Shigeru
Published: March 2023

Implant surgery is a lengthy dental procedure, and sedation is often used to reduce discomfort. The effectiveness of sedation has traditionally been evaluated in terms of patient and surgeon satisfaction, but the most important goal is not to induce a deep sleep in the patient, but rather to ensure that the surgery is performed safely and as planned. Additionally, adequate pain control is a necessary requirement for patient and surgeon satisfaction. Most patients undergoing implant surgery are middle-aged or older, and a relatively large number of them have cardiovascular disease. Infiltration anesthesia using articaine or lidocaine in combination with adrenaline is widely used, but its use in patients with cardiovascular disease is limited because of adrenaline’s effects on the cardiovascular system. The use of long-acting local anesthetics and the potential efficacy of ultrasound-guided jaw nerve block have been investigated to enhance analgesia without resorting to adrenaline. Midazolam and propofol are usually used for sedation, but dexmedetomidine, which causes less respiratory depression, and the ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine remimazolam are emerging as potential alternatives. Monitoring of anesthetic depth using electroencephalography is effective in maintaining a constant level of sedation. In addition, sedation promotes the stabilization of heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the risks associated with adrenaline and allowing for safer management.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Properties of (1−x)Si3N4-xAl2O3 Ceramics with Variation of the Components
Authors: Borgekov Daryn B. , Kozlovskiy Artem L. , Zdorovets Maxim V. , Shakirzyanov Rafael I. , Kenzhina Inesh E. , Shlimas Dmitriy I.
Published: March 2023

The aim of this paper is to study the effect of variation in the component ratio of (1−x)Si3N4-xAl2O3 ceramics on the phase composition, strength and thermal properties of ceramics. To obtain ceramics and their further study, the solid-phase synthesis method combined with thermal annealing of samples at a temperature of 1500 °C typical for the initialization of phase transformation processes was used. The relevance and novelty of this study lies in obtaining new data on the processes of phase transformations with a variation in the composition of ceramics, as well as determining the effect of the phase composition on the resistance of ceramics to external influences. According to X-ray phase analysis data, it was found that an increase in the Si3N4 concentration in the composition of ceramics leads to a partial displacement of the tetragonal phase of SiO2 and Al2(SiO4)O and an increase in the contribution of Si3N4. Evaluation of the optical properties of the synthesized ceramics depending on the ratio of the components showed that the formation of the Si3N4 phase leads to an increase in the band gap and the absorbing ability of the ceramics due to the formation of additional absorption bands from 3.7–3.8 eV. Analysis of the strength dependences showed that an increase in the contribution of the Si3N4 phase with subsequent displacement of the oxide phases leads to a strengthening of the ceramic by more than 15–20%. At the same time, it was found that a change in the phase ratio leads to the hardening of ceramics, as well as an increase in crack resistance.
Brownian Motion Simulation for Estimating Chloride Diffusivity of Cement Paste
Authors: Zhang Congyan , Li Xiang , Chen Feng , Wang Xudong , Zheng Jianjun
Published: March 2023

Chloride ion diffusion properties are important factors that affect the durability of cementitious materials. Researchers have conducted much exploration in this field, both experimentally and theoretically. Numerical simulation techniques have been greatly improved as theoretical methods and testing techniques have been updated. Researchers have modeled cement particles mostly as circular shapes, simulated the diffusion of chloride ions, and derived chloride ion diffusion coefficients in two-dimensional models. In this paper, a three-dimensional random walk method based on Brownian motion is employed to evaluate the chloride ion diffusivity of cement paste with the use of numerical simulation techniques. Unlike previous simplified two-dimensional or three-dimensional models with restricted walks, this is a true three-dimensional simulation technique that can visually represent the cement hydration process and the diffusion behavior of chloride ions in cement paste. During the simulation, the cement particles were reduced to spheres, which were randomly distributed in a simulation cell with periodic boundary conditions. Brownian particles were then dropped into the cell and permanently captured if their initial position in the gel fell. Otherwise, a sphere tangential to the nearest cement particle was constructed, with the initial position as the center. Then, the Brownian particles randomly jumped to the surface of this sphere. The process was repeated to derive the average arrival time. In addition, the diffusion coefficient of chloride ions was deduced. The effectiveness of the method was also tentatively confirmed by the experimental data.
Microstructure and Nanoindentation Behavior of FeCoNiAlTi High-Entropy Alloy-Reinforced 316L Stainless Steel Composite Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Zhang Xinqi , Yang Dongye , Jia Yandong , Wang Gang
Published: March 2023

Selective laser melting (SLM) is one of the metal additive manufactured technologies with the highest forming precision, which prepares metal components through melting powders layer by layer with a high-energy laser beam. The 316L stainless steel is widely used due to its excellent formability and corrosion resistance. However, its low hardness limits its further application. Therefore, researchers are committed to improving the hardness of stainless steel by adding reinforcement to stainless steel matrix to fabricate composites. Traditional reinforcement comprises rigid ceramic particles, such as carbides and oxides, while the research on high entropy alloys as reinforcement is limited. In this study, characterisation by appropriate methods, inductively coupled plasma, microscopy and nanointendation assay, showed that we successfully prepared the FeCoNiAlTi high entropy alloy (HEA)-reinforced 316L stainless steel composites using SLM. When the reinforcement ratio is 2 wt.%, the composite samples show higher density. The SLM-fabricated 316L stainless steel displays columnar grains and it varies to equiaxed grains in composites reinforced with 2 wt.% FeCoNiAlTi HEA. The grain size decreases drastically, and the percentage of the low angle grain boundary in the composite is much higher than in the 316L stainless steel matrix. The nanohardness of the composite reinforced with 2 wt.% FeCoNiAlTi HEA is twice as high as the 316L stainless steel matrix. This work demonstrates the feasibility of using a high-entropy alloy as potential reinforcement in stainless steel systems.
Expression of Interleukin-1β and Histological Changes of the Three-Dimensional Oral Mucosal Model in Response to Yttria-Stabilized Nanozirconia
Authors: Nasarudin Naziratul Adirah , Razali Masfueh , Goh Victor , Chai Wen Lin , Muchtar Andanastuti
Published: March 2023

Over the years, advancement in ceramic-based dental restorative materials has led to the development of monolithic zirconia with increased translucency. The monolithic zirconia fabricated from nano-sized zirconia powders is shown to be superior in physical properties and more translucent for anterior dental restorations. Most in vitro studies on monolithic zirconia have focused mainly on the effect of surface treatment or the wear of the material, while the nanotoxicity of this material is yet to be explored. Hence, this research aimed to assess the biocompatibility of yttria-stabilized nanozirconia (3-YZP) on the three-dimensional oral mucosal models (3D-OMM). The 3D-OMMs were constructed using human gingival fibroblast (HGF) and immortalized human oral keratinocyte cell line (OKF6/TERT-2), co-cultured on an acellular dermal matrix. On day 12, the tissue models were exposed to 3-YZP (test) and inCoris TZI (IC) (reference material). The growth media were collected at 24 and 48 h of exposure to materials and assessed for IL-1β released. The 3D-OMMs were fixed with 10% formalin for the histopathological assessments. The concentration of the IL-1β was not statistically different between the two materials for 24 and 48 h of exposure (p = 0.892). Histologically, stratification of epithelial cells was formed without evidence of cytotoxic damage and the epithelial thickness measured was the same for all model tissues. The excellent biocompatibility of nanozirconia, as evidenced by the multiple endpoint analyses of the 3D-OMM, may indicate the potential of its clinical application as a restorative material.
An Exploratory Study on Determining and Modeling the Creep Behavior of an Acrylic Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive
Authors: Simões Beatriz D. , Fernandes Élio M. D. , Marques Eduardo A. S. , Carbas Ricardo J. C. , Maul Steven , Stihler Patrick , Weißgraeber Philipp , da Silva Lucas F. M.
Published: March 2023

In the present paper, an exploratory study on the creep behavior of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) is performed. After the determination of the quasi-static behavior of the adhesive for bulk specimens and single lap joints (SLJ), SLJs were subjected to creep tests at 80%, 60%, and 30% of their respective failure load. It was verified that the durability of the joints increases under static creep conditions as the load level decreases, with the second phase of the creep curve becoming more pronounced, where the strain rate is close to zero. In addition, cyclic creep tests were performed for the 30% load level at a frequency of 0.04 Hz. Finally, an analytical model was applied to the experimental results in order to reproduce the values obtained for both static and cyclic tests. The model was found to be effective, reproducing the three phases of the curves which allowed for the characterization of the full creep curve, something not commonly found in the literature, especially for PSAs.
Investigations of Photoluminescence Properties of CaxMg2-xSi2O6:yEu2+ (x = 0.5–1.25, y = 0.015–0.035) Phosphors
Authors: Lu Juan , Su Chia-Ching , Hong Cheng-Shong , Peng Guoxiang , Yang Cheng-Fu
Published: March 2023

Previously, there were almost no relevant studies on developing the optimal CaxMg2-xSi2O6:yEu2+ phosphor composition for its finest optical properties. This study employs two steps to determine the optimal composition for CaxMg2-xSi2O6:yEu2+ phosphors. First, CaMgSi2O6:yEu2+ (y = 0.015, 0.020, 0.025, 0.030, 0.035) was used as the primary composition of specimens synthesised in a reducing atmosphere of 95% N2 + 5% H2 to investigate the effect of Eu2+ ions on the photoluminescence properties of each variant. The emission intensities of the entire photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra of the CaMgSi2O6:yEu2+ phosphors initially increased as the concentration of the Eu2+ ions increased, peaking at y = 0.025. The cause of the variations across the entire PLE and PL spectra of all five CaMgSi2O6:yEu2+ phosphors was investigated. Because the CaMgSi2O6:0.025Eu2+ phosphor had the highest PLE and PL emission intensities, in the next step, CaxMg2-xSi2O6:0.025Eu2+ (x = 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25) was used as the primary composition to investigate the effect on the photoluminescence properties when the CaO content varied. We also show that the Ca content has an apparent effect on the photoluminescence properties of CaxMg2-xSi2O6:0.025Eu2+ phosphors, and the optimal phosphor composition is Ca0.75Mg1.25Si2O6:0.025Eu2+ because it has the largest PLE and PL values. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses of CaxMg2-xSi2O6:0.025Eu2+ phosphors were performed to identify the factors responsible for this outcome.