bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epithelial–Myoepithelial Carcinoma of the Esophagus: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Haohao , Zhang Fangbiao , Peng Jiahui , Wu Zhiju , Zhang Xiangyan , Wu Xingzhen
Published: July 2022

Epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC) of the esophagus is a rare biphasic tumor with low malignant potential, which has not previously been reported in the published literature. The present study describes the case of an asymptomatic, 53-year-old male who presented with EMC in the esophagus during a gastroscopic examination. Esophageal computed tomography (CT) showed thickening of the wall of the lower esophagus with a thickness of about 0.7 cm, and an enhanced scan showed uneven enhancement of the thickened esophageal wall. Thoracoscopic esophagectomy was performed because the tumor was malignant. Histopathology revealed that the tumor was characterized by a biphasic architecture consisting of cuboidal ductal cells and myoepithelial cells. The patient’s postoperative recovery was eventful, an anastomotic fistula occurred, and the patient was discharged from the hospital after 84 days. One year postsurgery, the patient remained in good health, with no evidence of metastasis and recurrence.
Pregabalin Add-On vs. Dose Increase in Levetiracetam Add-On Treatment: A Real-Life Trial in Dogs With Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
Authors: Kriechbaumer Sandra R. P. , Jurina Konrad , Wielaender Franziska , Schenk Henning C. , Steinberg Tanja A. , Reese Sven , Buhmann Gesine , Doerfelt Stefanie , Potschka Heidrun , Fischer Andrea
Published: July 2022

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder affecting 0.6–0.75% of dogs in veterinary practice. Treatment is frequently complicated by the occurrence of drug-resistant epilepsy and cluster seizures in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. Only few studies are available to guide treatment choices beyond licensed veterinary drugs. The aim of the study was to compare antiseizure efficacy and tolerability of two add-on treatment strategies in dogs with drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy. The study design was a prospective, open-label, non-blinded, comparative treatment trial. Treatment success was defined as a 3-fold extension of the longest baseline interseizure interval and to a minimum of 3 months. To avoid prolonged adherence to a presumably ineffective treatment strategy, dog owners could leave the study after the third day with generalized seizures if the interseizure interval failed to show a relevant increase. Twenty-six dogs (mean age 5.5 years, mean seizure frequency 4/month) with drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy and a history of cluster seizures were included. Dogs received either add-on treatment with pregabalin (PGB) 4 mg/kg twice daily (14 dogs) or a dose increase in levetiracetam (LEV) add-on treatment (12 dogs). Thirteen dogs in the PGB group had drug levels within the therapeutic range for humans. Two dogs in the PGB group (14.3%; 2/14) and one dog in the LEV group (8.3%; 1/12) achieved treatment success with long seizure-free intervals from 122 to 219 days but then relapsed to their early seizure frequency 10 months after the study inclusion. The overall low success rates with both treatment strategies likely reflect a real-life situation in canine drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy in everyday veterinary practice. These results delineate the need for research on better pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment strategies in dogs with drug-resistant epilepsy.
Estimation of Early Graft Function Using the BETA-2 Score Following Clinical Islet Transplantation
Authors: Lam Anna , Oram Richard A. , Forbes Shareen , Olateju Tolu , Malcolm Andrew J. , Imes Sharleen , Shapiro A. M. James , Senior Peter A.
Published: July 2022

Little is known about how early islet graft function evolves in the clinical setting. The BETA-2 score is a validated index of islet function that can be calculated from a single blood sample and lends itself to frequent monitoring of graft function. In this study, we characterized early graft function by calculating weekly BETA-2 score in recipients who achieved insulin independence after single transplant (group 1, n = 8) compared to recipients who required a second transplant before achieving insulin independence (group 2, n = 7). We also determined whether graft function 1-week post-transplant was associated with insulin independence in individuals who received initial transplant between 2000–2017 (n = 125). Our results show that graft function increased rapidly reaching a plateau 4–6 weeks post-transplant. The BETA-2 score was higher in group 1 compared to group 2 as early as 1-week post-transplant (15 + 3 vs. 9 + 2, p = 0.001). In an unselected cohort, BETA-2 at 1-week post-transplant was associated with graft survival as defined by insulin independence during median follow up of 12 months (range 2–119 months) with greater survival among those with BETA-2 score >10 (p < 0.001, log-rank test). These findings suggest that primary graft function is established within 4–6 weeks post-transplant and graft function at 1-week post-transplant predicts long-term transplant outcomes.
„Bratniak” 1977–1981. Czasopismo Ruchu Młodej Polski
Authors: Dawidowicz Aneta
Published: July 2022

With aim to promote its political agendas and acquiring support the political opposition attempted to publish various types of journals. Such initiative was also taken by the democratic opposition activists who formed the Bratniak magazine at the end of 1977. The first issue of Bratniak came out in Gdańsk on 1st October 1977. A total number of thirty Bratniak issues of various volumes was published. The axiological pillar of the Bratniak’s cycle was Catholicism. National values, including Catholic ones, were supported. The reflection upon the nation, its essence, future and prospects for growth was a part of broader thought of the Bratniak’s cycle. The cycle drew from experience and tradition of the National Democratic Movement created at the end of the 19th century, and saw itself as the follower of the movement’s values.
Savonarola i lewica czasów postapokalipsy
Authors: Tarnawski Eduard
Published: July 2022

In 2007 John N. Gray, announced that humanity was just entering the era of the post-apocalypse, an phase which will allow it to free itself from the utopias based on the Apocalypse, in his opinion, the primary source of all totalitarianisms. To see if this British political scientist is perhaps a prophet of the post-apocalyptic left, I turn my attention to Florence at the end of the fifteenth century where the religious reformer Savonarola was active playing the role of a prophet of the left, still apocalyptic.
Modernizacja administracji publicznej w Polsce w XXI wieku – założenia teoretyczne i praktyka administracyjna
Authors: Wojnicki Jacek
Published: July 2022

Both structures – government (or more broadly state) and local administration have been functioning in the contemporary Polish state for over 20 years. Hence, a natural analytical procedure is to review the structures and principles of operation, including, in particular, their efficiency and effectiveness. The subject of the article is to make a political science analysis in the context of postulates submitted (mainly by academic and scientific circles) relating to the modernization of public administration in Poland in the 21st century and to compare it with the administrative practice of the contemporary Polish state. Several research methods were used in the presented article: historical-descriptive analysis, legal-institutional analysis, comparative and systemic method.
Automatic Classification of Foot Thermograms Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Filipe Vítor , Teixeira Pedro , Teixeira Ana
Published: July 2022

Diabetic foot is one of the main complications observed in diabetic patients; it is associated with the development of foot ulcers and can lead to amputation. In order to diagnose these complications, specialists have to analyze several factors. To aid their decisions and help prevent mistakes, the resort to computer-assisted diagnostic systems using artificial intelligence techniques is gradually increasing. In this paper, two different models for the classification of thermograms of the feet of diabetic and healthy individuals are proposed and compared. In order to detect and classify abnormal changes in the plantar temperature, machine learning algorithms are used in both models. In the first model, the foot thermograms are classified into four classes: healthy and three categories for diabetics. The second model has two stages: in the first stage, the foot is classified as belonging to a diabetic or healthy individual, while, in the second stage, a classification refinement is conducted, classifying diabetic foot into three classes of progressive severity. The results show that both proposed models proved to be efficient, allowing us to classify a foot thermogram as belonging to a healthy or diabetic individual, with the diabetic ones divided into three classes; however, when compared, Model 2 outperforms Model 1 and allows for a better performance classification concerning the healthy category and the first class of diabetic individuals. These results demonstrate that the proposed methodology can be a tool to aid medical diagnosis.
Low Temperature Rather Than Nitrogen Application Mainly Modulates the Floral Initiation of Different Ecotypes of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Luo Tao , Lin Rongmei , Cheng Tai , Hu Liyong
Published: July 2022

Rapeseed has formed three ecological types, namely winter, semi-winter, and spring during the long domestication process. Different ecotypes have different low-temperature requirements for floral initiation. Rapeseed growth has a large demand for nitrogen, and the amount of nitrogen application significantly impacts the number of flowering. Meanwhile, the time of floral imitation determined the quantity of floral bud, the final number of pods, and yield of rapeseed. Therefore, it is of great significance to understand the regulation of temperature and nitrogen on floral initiation. This experiment selected representative semi-winter and spring rapeseed varieties to study the leaf’s soluble sugar and protein concentration under different nitrogen supplies and the transcriptome reactions to vernalization for spring and semi-winter varieties rapeseed in transition to floral initiation. The results showed that the soluble sugar content and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio changed due to the different growth processes and nitrogen application rates. The increase of the sugar content to a peak could be regarded as the signal to start floral initiation. Reducing the nitrogen application rate increased the peak of sugar content, but the effect on the appearance time of the peak was not obvious. Under normal (20–25 °C) and low temperatures (10–15 °C), the floral initiation time of spring variety “1358” showed no difference, nor did expression of hub gene SOC1, which is involved in the flowering regulation network. The semi-winter variety “Zhongshuang No. 11” did not commence floral initiation under normal temperature because of the lacking of vernalization requirement. Low temperature promoted the floral initiation of semi-winter variety mainly through the FLC, SOC1, and LFY signaling pathways, and the gibberellin also played a positive factor in this process. In essence, the present study provides valuable information on the gene expression differences of vernalization-driven floral transition for spring and semi-winter ecotypes of rapeseed when the photoperiod is not an unlimited factor.
Fecal Microbiome Features Associated with Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacterales Carriage in Dairy Heifers
Authors: Cohen Adar , Poupko Liat , Craddock Hillary , Motro Yair , Khalfin Boris , Zelinger Amit , Tirosh-Levy Sharon , Blum Shlomo , Steinman Amir , Moran-Gilad Jacob
Published: July 2022

Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) are a growing public health threat, and one key human exposure point is through livestock and the food supply. Understanding microbiome factors associated with fecal ESBL carriage can help detect and ideally assist with controlling and preventing ESBL dissemination among livestock. The objective of this study was to investigate the diversity and composition of the heifer fecal microbiota in ESBL-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE) carriers and noncarriers. A total of 59 fecal samples were collected from replacement heifers between 12 and 18 months old from eight dairy farms in central Israel. Genomic DNA was extracted, and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was performed (Illumina short reads), focusing on a comparison between 33 ESBL-PE carriers (55.9%) and 26 (44.1%) noncarriers. Samples were analyzed and compared using QIIME2 (DADA2 pipeline and taxonomic assignment with SILVA database) and associated R packages for alpha and beta diversity and taxonomic abundances. Alpha diversity (Shannon diversity) and beta diversity (unweighted UniFrac) showed no significant difference between ESBL-PE carriers and noncarriers. Heifers from farms feeding calves with pooled colostrum had higher ESBL-PE carriage rates than heifers from farms feeding with individual mother colostrum (p < 0.001). Taxonomical abundance analysis revealed that the most common bacterial phyla were Bacteroidetes (44%) and Firmicutes (38%). There was no significant difference in taxonomic composition between ESBL-PE carriers and noncarriers at the phylum and genus levels. However, LEfSe biomarker discovery analysis identified several genera which were significantly different between carriers and noncarriers. For example, Prevotellacaea, Bacteroides, Rikenellaceae, and uncultured Bacteroidales were more abundant in ESBL carriers than noncarriers. Some aspects of microbiota composition differ between ESBL carriers and noncarriers in dairy heifers, specifically the abundance of certain genera. Feeding with pooled colostrum may play a role in that assembly. These could potentially serve as markers of ESBL-PE carriage. However, further research is needed to determine whether these observed differences have a significant impact on colonization with ESBL-PE.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Pressure Drop Characteristics of Soybean Grain under Vertical Pressure
Authors: Liu Wenlei , Chen Guixiang , Liu Chaosai , Zheng Deqian , Ge Mengmeng
Published: July 2022

The vertical pressure lead to increased airflow resistance through the grain bulk, which affected the efficiency of ventilation and drying. The effects of vertical pressures at 50, 150, and 250 kPa on the pressure drop characteristics of soybeans were studied using experiment and numerical simulation. The random packing and different compression states for soybean packed beds were generated by the Discrete Element Method (DEM). The Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) were coupled to investigate the radial velocity and pressure drop of soybean bulk. The simulation results showed that the radial porosity had an oscillating distribution, and the radial average dimensionless velocity was consistent with the distribution trend of porosity. The increase in vertical pressure causes a decrease in porosity and an increase in local velocity. The PathFinder code was used as a supplementary method to calculate the pore path and pore characterization parameters, and the resistance coefficient term in the Forchheimer equation was determined. The compression of soybeans measured by the experiment mainly occurred within two hours after loading. The pressure drop of soybeans increased with the vertical pressure, with the average pressure drop at vertical pressures of 50, 150, and 250 kPa being 36%, 57%, and 92% higher than the uncompressed state (0 kPa). The pressure drop of soybeans calculated by the DEM-CFD method and the Forchheimer equation under different vertical pressures were in close agreement with the experimental results, and an average relative difference was found to be less than 10%. These results provide guidance for estimating the pressure drop of soybeans at different grain depths.
Nanozyme-Based Lateral Flow Immunoassay (LFIA) for Extracellular Vesicle Detection
Authors: Wang Baihui , Moyano Amanda , Duque José María , Sánchez Luis , García-Santos Guillermo , Flórez Luis J. García , Serrano-Pertierra Esther , Blanco-López María del Carmen
Published: July 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are biological nanoparticles of great interest as novel sources of biomarkers and as drug delivery systems for personalized therapies. The research in the field and clinical applications require rapid quantification. In this study, we have developed a novel lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) system based on Fe3O4 nanozymes for extracellular vesicle (EV) detection. Iron oxide superparamagnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4 MNPs) have been reported as peroxidase-like mimetic systems and competent colorimetric labels. The peroxidase-like capabilities of MNPs coated with fatty acids of different chain lengths (oleic acid, myristic acid, and lauric acid) were evaluated in solution with H2O2 and 3,3,5,5-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) as well as on strips by biotin–neutravidin affinity assay. As a result, MNPs coated with oleic acid were applied as colorimetric labels and applied to detect plasma-derived EVs in LFIAs via their nanozyme effects. The visual signals of test lines were significantly enhanced, and the limit of detection (LOD) was reduced from 5.73 × 107 EVs/μL to 2.49 × 107 EVs/μL. Our work demonstrated the potential of these MNPs as reporter labels and as nanozyme probes for the development of a simple tool to detect EVs, which have proven to be useful biomarkers in a wide variety of diseases.
Immunoassay for Natamycin Trace Screening: Bread, Wine and Other Edibles Analysis
Authors: Burkin Maksim A. , Moshcheva Anastasia G. , Galvidis Inna A.
Published: July 2022

The antifungal drug natamycin (NAT) is widely used in medicine and in the food industry as preservative E235 for a wide variety of foods. The risk of the development of resistance to NAT and its spread in relation to other polyene antibiotics is fraught with the emergence of incurable infections. This work is devoted to the development of an immunoassay to investigate the prevalence of NAT use for food preservation. Two immunogen designs based on tetanus toxoid, conjugated to NAT through different sites of hapten molecules, were compared in antibody generation. Assay formats using heterologous coating antigens were superior for both antibodies. The ELISA variant demonstrated the highest sensitivity (IC50 = 0.12 ng/mL), and a limit of detection of 0.02 ng/mL was selected for NAT determination. The optimized extraction procedure provided a recovery rate of 72–106% for various food matrixes with variations below 12%. Cyclodextrins, as well as NAT–cyclodextrin complex formulations, showed no interference with the quantification of NAT. One hundred and six food product brands, including baked goods, wines, beers, drinks, sauces, and yogurts, were tested to assess the prevalence of the undeclared use of NAT as a preservative. The screening examination revealed three positive yogurts with an undeclared NAT incorporation of 1.1–9.3 mg/kg.
Capturing Transitional Pluripotency through Proline Metabolism
Authors: Minchiotti Gabriella , D’Aniello Cristina , Fico Annalisa , De Cesare Dario , Patriarca Eduardo Jorge
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we summarize the current knowledge of the role of proline metabolism in the control of the identity of Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs). An imbalance in proline metabolism shifts mouse ESCs toward a stable naïve-to-primed intermediate state of pluripotency. Proline-induced cells (PiCs), also named primitive ectoderm-like cells (EPLs), are phenotypically metastable, a trait linked to a rapid and reversible relocalization of E-cadherin from the plasma membrane to intracellular membrane compartments. The ESC-to-PiC transition relies on the activation of Erk and Tgfβ/Activin signaling pathways and is associated with extensive remodeling of the transcriptome, metabolome and epigenome. PiCs maintain several properties of naïve pluripotency (teratoma formation, blastocyst colonization and 3D gastruloid development) and acquire a few traits of primed cells (flat-shaped colony morphology, aerobic glycolysis metabolism and competence for primordial germ cell fate). Overall, the molecular and phenotypic features of PiCs resemble those of an early-primed state of pluripotency, providing a robust model to study the role of metabolic perturbations in pluripotency and cell fate decisions.
Complete Genome Sequence and Cosmetic Potential of Viridibacillus sp. JNUCC6 Isolated from Baengnokdam, the Summit Crater of Mt. Halla
Authors: Ko Min Nyeong , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: July 2022

Novel microbe-derived products are gaining increasing attention for their ability to modulate skin conditions. The use of microbial metabolites to improve skin health outcomes is of particular interest because growing evidence points to the importance of natural products without side effects on human health. This study aimed to sequence the genome of Viridibacillus sp. JNUCC6 isolated from Baengnokdam, the summit crater of Mt. Halla. We further investigated the potential use of its extract as a cosmetic ingredient in controlling melanogenesis and inflammation. The genome of this strain was sequenced using both Illumina Novaseq 6000 and third-generation sequencing technology (PacBio RSII) to obtain trustworthy assembly and annotation. Different concentrations of the Viridibacillus sp. JNUCC6 extract were tested for its anti-melanogenic and anti-inflammatory effects in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced B16F10 melanoma and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 cells, respectively. The whole genome sequence of the strain contained 4,526,142 bp with 35.61% GC content, one contig, and 4364 protein-coding sequences. Furthermore, antiSMASH analysis of the whole genome revealed three putative biosynthetic gene clusters that are responsible for the production of various secondary metabolites. Our study found that the Viridibacillus sp. JNUCC6 extract inhibited the α-MSH-induced melanin production and tyrosinase activity in B16F10 melanoma cells. In addition, it decreased the LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production caused by LPS stimulation in a concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, Viridibacillus sp. JNUCC6 has potential applications as an ingredient in skin-whitening and anti-inflammatory products and can be used in the cosmetic and medical industries.
Reduced Cerebellar Volume in Term Infants with Complex Congenital Heart Disease: Correlation with Postnatal Growth Measurements
Authors: Ceschin Rafael , Zahner Alexandria , Reynolds William , Beluk Nancy , Panigrahy Ashok
Published: July 2022

Aberrant cerebellar development and the associated neurocognitive deficits has been postulated in infants with congenital heart disease (CHD). Our objective is to investigate the effect of postnatal head and somatic growth on cerebellar development in neonates with CHD. We compared term-born neonates with a history of CHD with a cohort of preterm-born neonates, two cohorts at similar risk for neurodevelopment impairment, in order to determine if they are similarly affected in the early developmental period. Study Design: 51 preterms-born healthy neonates, 62 term-born CHD neonates, and 54 term-born healthy neonates underwent a brain MRI with volumetric imaging. Cerebellar volumes were extracted through an automated segmentation pipeline that was developed in-house. Volumes were correlated with clinical growth parameters at both the birth and time of MRI. Results: The CHD cohort showed significantly lower cerebellar volumes when compared with both the control (p < 0.015) and preterm (p < 0.004) groups. Change in weight from birth to time of MRI showed a moderately strong correlation with cerebellar volume at time of MRI (r = 0.437, p < 0.002) in the preterms, but not in the CHD neonates (r = 0.205, p < 0.116). Changes in birth length and head circumference showed no significant correlation with cerebellar volume at time of MRI in either cohort. Conclusions: Cerebellar development in premature-born infants is associated with change in birth weight in the early post-natal period. This association is not observed in term-born neonates with CHD, suggesting differential mechanisms of aberrant cerebellar development in these perinatal at-risk populations.
Analytical Modeling and Empirical Analysis of Binary Options Strategies
Authors: Ertek Gurdal , Al-Kaabi Aysha , Maghyereh Aktham Issa
Published: July 2022

This study analyzes binary option investment strategies by developing mathematical formalism and formulating analytical models. The binary outcome of binary options represents either an increase or a decrease in a parameter, typically an asset or derivative. The investor receives only partial returns if the prediction is correct but loses all the investment otherwise. Mainstream research on binary options aims to develop the best dynamic trading strategies. This study focuses on static tactical easy-to-implement strategies and investigates the performance of such strategies in relation to prediction accuracy, payout percentage, and investment strategy decisions.
Discrete Element Modelling of Fractal Behavior of Particle Size Distribution and Breakage of Ballast under Monotonic Loading
Authors: Chen Cheng , Zhang Xin , Sun Yifei , Zhang Lei , Rui Rui , Wang Zhide
Published: July 2022

Breakage of particles has a great influence on the particle size distribution (PSD) and the associated mechanical behavior of ballast under train loads. A discrete element method (DEM) simulation of triaxial testing under monotonic loading was carried out using FRM (fragment replacement method) breakable particles as ballast and a flexible shell model as membrane. The coupled model was validated by comparing the load-deformation responses with those measured in previous experiments and was then used to analyze the contact orientations and the distribution of particle breakage from a micromechanical perspective. The simulation results show that higher confining pressure and larger axial strain may increase the grain breakage (Bg) and the fractal dimension (D) of ballast. It was observed that most breakage was first-generation breakage, and that the proportions of the second- to fifth-generation breakage decreased successively. Moreover, as the axial strain or confining pressure increased, the percentage of small particle fragments increased in correspondence with the PSD curves that remained concave upwards, as the fractal dimension D of PSD increased. In addition, the evolution of D exhibited a linear correlation with grain breakage Bg. Contrarily, a quadratic curve relation between D and volumetric strain was exhibited under different axial strain stages. Therefore, D has the potential to be a key indicator to evaluate the degree of ballast crushing and PSD degradation, which may contribute to better decision making concerning track bed maintenance.
3D Printed Gene-Activated Sodium Alginate Hydrogel Scaffolds
Authors: Khvorostina Maria A. , Mironov Anton V. , Nedorubova Irina A. , Bukharova Tatiana B. , Vasilyev Andrey V. , Goldshtein Dmitry V. , Komlev Vladimir S. , Popov Vladimir K.
Published: July 2022

Gene therapy is one of the most promising approaches in regenerative medicine to restore damaged tissues of various types. However, the ability to control the dose of bioactive molecules in the injection site can be challenging. The combination of genetic constructs, bioresorbable material, and the 3D printing technique can help to overcome these difficulties and not only serve as a microenvironment for cell infiltration but also provide localized gene release in a more sustainable way to induce effective cell differentiation. Herein, the cell transfection with plasmid DNA directly incorporated into sodium alginate prior to 3D printing was investigated both in vitro and in vivo. The 3D cryoprinting ensures pDNA structure integrity and safety. 3D printed gene-activated scaffolds (GAS) mediated HEK293 transfection in vitro and effective synthesis of model EGFP protein in vivo, thereby allowing the implementation of the developed GAS in future tissue engineering applications.
Rearrangement of Diferrocenyl 3,4-Thiophene Dicarboxylate
Authors: Ghazzy Asma , Taher Deeb , Korb Marcus , Al Khalyfeh Khaled , Helal Wissam , Amarne Hazem , Rüffer Tobias , Ishtaiwi Zakariyya , Lang Heinrich
Published: July 2022

Treatment of 3,4-(ClC(O))2-cC4H2S (1) with [FcCH2OLi] (2-Li) (Fc = Fe(η5-C5H5)(η5-C5H4)) in a 1:2 ratio gave 3,4-(FcCH2OC(O))2-cC4H2S (3). Compound 3 decomposes in solution during crystallization to produce FcCH2OH (2) along with 3,4-thiophenedicarboxylic anhydride (4). The cyclic voltammogram of 3 exhibits a reversible ferrocene-related redox couple (E1/2 = 108 mV, vs. Cp2Fe/Cp2Fe+) using [NnBu4] [B(C6F5)4] as the supporting electrolyte. DFT calculations reveal that the energy values of the LUMO orbitals of 3 (3,4-thiophene core) show 1 eV higher energies than that one of 2,5-(FcCH2OC(O))2-cC4H2S (5), both compounds’ HOMO orbitals are close to each other. Compound 4 was characterized by single X-ray structure analysis. It forms a band-type structure based on intermolecular O1···S1 interactions being parallel to (110) and (1–10) in the solid state, while electrostatic C···O interactions between the C=O functionalities of adjacent molecules connect both 3D-networks. Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to gain more insight into the intermolecular interactions in 4, the enrichment ratios (E) suggest that O···H, S···S, and O···C are the most favored intermolecular interactions, as shown by E values above 1.20. The relevance of the weak O···H, O···O, and O···C contacts in stabilizing the molecular structure of 4 was highlighted by the interaction energies between molecular pairs.
Mitogenomics of the Olive Seed Weevil, Anchonocranus oleae Marshall and Implications for Its Phylogenetic Position in Curculionidae
Authors: Smit Samuel J. , Allsopp Elleunorah , Nethavhani Zwannda , Caleca Virgilio , Oberprieler Rolf G. , van Asch Barbara
Published: July 2022

Anchonocranus oleae Marshall (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a seed-feeding weevil native to southern Africa; its larvae are known to develop in the fruits of the African Wild Olive and, more rarely, cultivated olives. The species has been mainly found in the Western Cape province of South Africa, but it has remained in relative obscurity because it does not seem to represent a current threat to commercial olive production. As part of an ongoing effort to produce baseline genetic data for olive-associated entomofauna in South Africa, we generated reference DNA barcodes for A. oleae collected from wild and cultivated olives and sequenced its mitogenome for assessment of the phylogenetic position of the species in the family Curculionidae. The mitochondrial phylogeny estimate indicated that A. oleae shares a common ancestor with Elaidobius (tribe Derelomini), but a definite and close relationship to this tribe and the precise tribal placement of A. oleae in the subfamily Curculioninae could not be inferred due to the lack of representative mitogenomes of other relevant curculionine tribes and genera. This study will assist future work on the DNA-based species identification, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic position of the genus Anchonocranus and related taxa.
Educational Programme for Cancer Nurses in Genetics, Health Behaviors and Cancer Prevention: A Multidisciplinary Consensus Study
Authors: Diez de los Rios de la Serna Celia , Fernández-Ortega Paz , Lluch-Canut Teresa
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Most common hereditary cancers in Europe have been associated with lifestyle behaviors, and people affected are lacking follow up care. However, access to education programmes to increase knowledge on cancer and genetics and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors in people at high risk of cancer is scarce. This affects the quality of care of people with a hereditary risk of cancer. This study aimed to reach a multidisciplinary consensus on topics and competencies and competencies that cancer nurses need in relation to cancer, genetics, and health promotion. (2) Methods: A two-round online Delphi study was undertaken. Experts in cancer and genetics were asked to assess the relevance of eighteen items and to suggest additional terms. Consensus was defined as an overall agreement of at least 75%. (3) Results: A total of 74 multiprofessional experts from all around the world participated in this study including healthcare professionals working in genetics (39%), researchers in cancer and genetics (31%) and healthcare professionals with cancer patients (30%). Thirteen additional items were proposed. A total of thirty-one items reached consensus. (4) Conclusions: This multidisciplinary consensus study provide the essential elements to build an educational programme to increase cancer nurses’ skills to support the complex care of people living with a higher risk of cancer including addressing lifestyle behaviors. All professionals highlighted the importance of cancer nurses increasing their skills in cancer and genetics.
Prediction of All-Cause Mortality Based on Stress/Rest Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) Using Deep Learning: A Comparison between Image and Frequency Spectra as Input
Authors: Cheng Da-Chuan , Hsieh Te-Chun , Hsu Yu-Ju , Lai Yung-Chi , Yen Kuo-Yang , Wang Charles C. N. , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: July 2022

Background: Cardiovascular management and risk stratification of patients is an important issue in clinics. Patients who have experienced an adverse cardiac event are concerned for their future and want to know the survival probability. Methods: We trained eight state-of-the-art CNN models using polar maps of myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), gender, lung/heart ratio, and patient age for 5-year survival prediction after an adverse cardiac event based on a cohort of 862 patients who had experienced adverse cardiac events and stress/rest MPIs. The CNN model outcome is to predict a patient’s survival 5 years after a cardiac event, i.e., two classes, either yes or no. Results: The best accuracy of all the CNN prediction models was 0.70 (median value), which resulted from ResNet-50V2, using image as the input in the baseline experiment. All the CNN models had better performance after using frequency spectra as the input. The accuracy increment was about 7~9%. Conclusions: This is the first trial to use pure rest/stress MPI polar maps and limited clinical data to predict patients’ 5-year survival based on CNN models and deep learning. The study shows the feasibility of using frequency spectra rather than images, which might increase the performance of CNNs.
Prediction of Vaccine Response and Development of a Personalized Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Strategy in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Results from a Large Single-Center Study
Authors: Benotmane Ilies , Gautier-Vargas Gabriela , Cognard Noëlle , Olagne Jérôme , Heibel Françoise , Braun-Parvez Laura , Martzloff Jonas , Perrin Peggy , Pszczolinski Romain , Moulin Bruno , Fafi-Kremer Samira , Caillard Sophie
Published: July 2022

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) displays marked inter-individual variations in magnitude of immune responses to anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. The aim of this large single-center study was to identify the predictive factors for serological response to the mRNA-1273 vaccine in KTRs. We also devised a score to optimize prediction with the goal of implementing a personalized vaccination strategy. The study population consisted of 564 KTRs who received at least two doses of the mRNA-1273 vaccine. Anti-RBD IgG titers were quantified one month after each vaccine dose and until six months thereafter. A third dose vaccine was given when the antibody titer after the second dose was <143 BAU/mL. A score to optimize prediction of vaccine response was devised using the independent predictors identified in multivariate analysis. The seropositivity rate after the second dose was 46.6% and 22.2% of participants were classified as good responders (titers ≥ 143 BAU/mL). On analyzing the 477 patients for whom serology testing was available after the second or third dose, the global seropositivity rate was 69% (good responders: 46.3%). Immunosuppressive drugs, graft function, age, interval from transplantation, body mass index, and sex were associated with vaccine response. The devised score was strongly associated with the seropositivity rate (AUC = 0.752, p < 0.0001) and the occurrence of a good antibody response (AUC = 0.785, p < 0.0001). Notably, antibody titers declined over time both after the second and third vaccine doses. In summary, a high burden of comorbidities and immunosuppression was correlated with a weaker antibody response. A fourth vaccine dose and/or pre-exposure prophylaxis with monoclonal antibodies should be considered for KTRs who remain unprotected.
Concomitant Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Management Strategies: A Narrative Review
Authors: Valbuena Valecillos Adriana D. , Gater David R. , Alvarez Gemayaret
Published: July 2022

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a catastrophic event with multiple comorbidities including spastic paralysis, sensory loss, autonomic dysfunction with sympathetic blunting, neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, neurogenic restrictive and obstructive lung disease, neuropathic pain, spasticity, neurogenic bladder, neurogenic bowel, immobilization hypercalcemia, osteopenia/osteoporosis, neurogenic obesity, and metabolic dysfunction. Cervical and thoracic SCI is all too often accompanied by traumatic brain injury (TBI), which carries its own set of comorbidities including headaches, seizures, paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity, aphasia, dysphagia, cognitive dysfunction, memory loss, agitation/anxiety, spasticity, bladder and bowel incontinence, and heterotopic ossification. This manuscript will review the etiology and epidemiology of dual diagnoses, assessment of both entities, and discuss some of the most common comorbidities and management strategies to optimize functional recovery.
Simulation on the Direct Powder Rolling Process of Cu Powder by Drucker–Prager/Cap Model and Its Experimental Verification
Authors: Zhang Chen , Jia Lei , Xie Hui , Niu Ruifeng , Lu Zhenlin , Kondoh Katsuyoshi
Published: July 2022

For better clarifying the influence of processing factors on the forming quality of the direct powder rolling (DPR) process, finite element simulation based on the modified Drucker–Prager/Cap (DPC) model was established and the key physical parameters of the powder were confirmed by experimental measurements. Subsequently, the effect of the main factors in the DPR process, viz., powder gradation, rolling speed and rolling gap, on the density and morphology of a green sheet were discussed by using an orthogonal experiment design followed by experimental verification. The influence of DPR parameters on the density of the green sheet is examined by a range analysis, which can reflect the sensitivity of influencing factors to the forming quality of the green sheet. The larger the range value is, the more sensitive the influencing factor is. This suggests that the quality of the green sheet is mainly influenced by particle gradation. The results show that the density of the resulting DPR green sheet with optimal parameters is mainly 7.5~8.0 g/cm3, reaches 80% of the theoretical density, and the mechanical strength can also afford the transferring process of the green sheet for the next sintering craft. The methods for modeling, obtaining physical parameters and the numerical simulation results can be used to guide rapid formation of the metal sheet by using direct powder rolling craft.
Influence of Ga Content on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cadmium-Free Filler Metal
Authors: Wu Jie , Xue Songbai , Liu Lu , Zhang Peng , Luo Qingcheng
Published: July 2022

The influence of Ga content on the melting temperature, wettability, microstructure, and mechanical properties of low-silver 12AgCuZnSn-2In-0.15Pr cadmium-free filler metal was investigated systematically by means of differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometer, etc. The results showed that the addition of the Ga element reduced the solidus and liquidus temperatures of the novel low-silver filler metals, and effectively increased the spreading area of the filler metal on the copper and 304 stainless steel substrates. Furthermore, an appropriate amount of Ga element significantly optimized the interface morphology and improved the mechanical properties of the brazed joints. When the Ga content was 1wt.%, the shear strength of the brazed joints reached a peak value of 448 MPa, and the corresponding fracture morphology showed typical ductile characteristics with obvious dimples.
Modifying Effect of a New Boron-Barium Ferroalloy on the Wear Resistance of Low-Chromium Cast Iron
Authors: Aubakirov Dastan , Issagulov Aristotel , Kvon Svetlana , Kulikov Vitaly , Chsherbakova Yelena , Arinova Saniya
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the results of a study and analysis of the effect of modifying low-chromium hypoeutectic cast iron with a new boron–barium ferroalloy on its properties—wear resistance and impact resistance—in comparison with traditional boron- and barium-containing additives. The uniqueness and novelty of the work lies in the study of the nature of changes in the structure and wear-resistant properties of low-chromium cast iron as a result of its modifying treatment with a new boron–barium ferroalloy. In a laboratory electric resistance furnace, low-chromium cast iron was melted, and four batches of prototypes were cast. Samples of the first batch, for subsequent comparison, were made without modification. When casting the remaining three batches of samples, the cast iron was modified with three different additives: ferroboron FeB12, ferrosilicobarium FeSi60Ba20, and a new complex boron–barium modifier. In order to compare the degree of effectiveness of the applied modifiers, a metallographic analysis of the structure was performed, hardness measurements were performed on the surface of the samples, and they were subjected to abrasion and cyclic shock-dynamic impact tests. In all cases, when modifying cast iron, there was an increase in hardness, a noticeable grinding of the microstructure, and a redistribution of structural components towards an increase in the proportion of perlite and finely dispersed ledeburite. A comparative analysis of the results of testing samples for dry friction and shock showed a higher surface resistance of cast samples made of modified cast iron compared to unmodified low-chromium cast iron of the same composition. A comparative study of the parameters of wear tracks and craters on damaged surfaces established that the most optimal combination of wear-resistant qualities of low-chromium cast iron occurs when it is treated with a complex boron–barium modifier, which is also evidenced by obtaining a more favorable microstructure.
A High-Performance MEMS Accelerometer with an Improved TGV Process of Low Cost
Authors: Fu Yingchun , Han Guowei , Gu Jiebin , Zhao Yongmei , Ning Jin , Wei Zhenyu , Yang Fuhua , Si Chaowei
Published: July 2022

High-performance MEMS accelerometers usually use a pendulum structure with a larger mass. Although the performance of the device is guaranteed, the manufacturing cost is high. This paper proposes a method of fabricating high-performance MEMS accelerometers with a TGV process, which can reduce the manufacturing cost and ensure the low-noise characteristics of the device. The TGV processing relies on laser drilling, the metal filling in the hole is based on the casting mold and CMP, and the packaging adopts the three-layer anodic bonding process. Moreover, for the first time, the casting mold process is introduced to the preparation of MEMS devices. In terms of structural design, the stopper uses distributed comb electrodes for overload displacement suppression, and the gas released by the packaging method provides excellent mechanical damping characteristics. The prepared accelerometer has an anti-overload capability of 10,000 g, the noise density is less than 0.001°/√Hz, and it has ultra-high performance in tilt measurement.
Correction: Saadeh et al. Recent Advances in the Synthesis and Biological Activity of 8-Hydroxyquinolines. Molecules 2020, 25, 4321
Authors: Saadeh Haythem A. , Sweidan Kamal A. , Mubarak Mohammad S.
Published: July 2022

The author wishes to make the following correction to this paper [...]
The Impact of a 1,2,3-Triazole Motif on the Photophysical Behavior of Non-K Tetrasubstituted Pyrene with a Substitution Pattern Providing the Long Axial Symmetry
Authors: Zych Dawid , Slodek Aneta
Published: July 2022

1,3,6,8-Tetrasubstituted pyrene derivatives with two types of substituents (4-(2,2-dimethylpropyloxy)pyridine, 1-decyl-1,2,3-triazole, 1-benzyl-1,2,3-triazole, and pyrazole), substituted in such a way that provides the long axial symmetry, are prepared and characterized in the present study. To the best of our knowledge, the pyrene derivative containing the same heteroaryl motif (triazole) but substituted by two various alkyls, straight decyl and benzyl-based side chains (C), is reported for the first time. For comparison, compounds with one kind of triazole motif and substituted pyridine or pyrazole groups were prepared (A and B). The photophysical properties of all molecules were evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and UV-Vis spectroscopy (absorption and emission spectra, quantum yields, and fluorescence lifetimes). The obtained results were compared to analogues substituted at the 1,3,6,8 positions by one kind of substituent and also with all the 1,3,6,8-tetrasubstituted pyrenes reported in the literature substituted by two kinds of substituents with a substitution pattern that provides long axial symmetry. In addition, theoretical studies based on DFT and TD-DFT were performed that supported the interpretation of the experimental results. The photophysical properties of tetrasubstituted pyrene derivatives having triazole units at the 1,8-positions, respectively, and other identical substituents at the 3,6 positions show the dominance of triazole units in the pyrene framework; the dominance is even higher in the case of the substitution of 1,3,6,8 positions by triazoles, but containing two various alkyls.
Tirzepatide, a New Era of Dual-Targeted Treatment for Diabetes and Obesity: A Mini-Review
Authors: Chavda Vivek P. , Ajabiya Jinal , Teli Divya , Bojarska Joanna , Apostolopoulos Vasso
Published: July 2022

The prevalence of obesity and diabetes is an increasing global problem, especially in developed countries, and is referred to as the twin epidemics. As such, advanced treatment approaches are needed. Tirzepatide, known as a ‘twincretin’, is a ‘first-in-class’ and the only dual glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) receptor agonist, that can significantly reduce glycemic levels and improve insulin sensitivity, as well as reducing body weight by more than 20% and improving lipid metabolism. This novel anti-diabetic drug is a synthetic peptide analog of the human GIP hormone with a C20 fatty-diacid portion attached which, via acylation technology, can bind to albumin in order to provide a dose of the drug, by means of subcutaneous injection, once a week, which is appropriate to its a half-life of about five days. Tirzepatide, developed by Eli Lilly, was approved, under the brand name Mounjaro, by the United States Food and Drug Administration in May 2022. This started the ‘twincretin’ era of enormously important and appealing dual therapeutic options for diabetes and obesity, as well as advanced management of closely related cardiometabolic settings, which constitute the leading cause of morbidity, disability, and mortality worldwide. Herein, we present the key characteristics of tirzepatide in terms of synthesis, structure, and activity, bearing in mind its advantages and shortcomings. Furthermore, we briefly trace the evolution of this kind of medical agent and discuss the development of clinical studies.