bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survey of Protein Sequence Embedding Models
Authors: Tran Chau , Khadkikar Siddharth , Porollo Aleksey
Published: February 2023

Derived from the natural language processing (NLP) algorithms, protein language models enable the encoding of protein sequences, which are widely diverse in length and amino acid composition, in fixed-size numerical vectors (embeddings). We surveyed representative embedding models such as Esm, Esm1b, ProtT5, and SeqVec, along with their derivatives (GoPredSim and PLAST), to conduct the following tasks in computational biology: embedding the Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteome, gene ontology (GO) annotation of the uncharacterized proteins of this organism, relating variants of human proteins to disease status, correlating mutants of beta-lactamase TEM-1 from Escherichia coli with experimentally measured antimicrobial resistance, and analyzing diverse fungal mating factors. We discuss the advances and shortcomings, differences, and concordance of the models. Of note, all of the models revealed that the uncharacterized proteins in yeast tend to be less than 200 amino acids long, contain fewer aspartates and glutamates, and are enriched for cysteine. Less than half of these proteins can be annotated with GO terms with high confidence. The distribution of the cosine similarity scores of benign and pathogenic mutations to the reference human proteins shows a statistically significant difference. The differences in embeddings of the reference TEM-1 and mutants have low to no correlation with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC).
Two Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the Von Hippel-Lindau Tumor Suppressor Gene in Patients with Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chrabańska Magdalena , Szweda-Gandor Nikola , Drozdzowska Bogna
Published: February 2023

The most common subtype of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is clear cell type (ccRCC), which accounts for approximately 75% of cases. von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene has been shown to be affected in more than half of ccRCC cases. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in VHL gene, rs779805 and rs1642742, are reported to be involved in the occurrence of ccRCC. The aim of this study was to assess their associations with clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical parameters, as well as risk and survival of ccRCC. The study population consisted of 129 patients. No significant differences in genotype or allele frequencies of VHL gene polymorphisms were observed between ccRCC cases and control population, and we have found that our results do not indicate a significant relationship of these SNPs with respect to ccRCC susceptibility. Additionally, we did not observe a significant association of these two SNPs with ccRCC survival. However, our results conclude that rs1642742 and rs779805 in the VHL gene are associated with increased tumor size, which is the most important prognostic indicator of renal cancer. Moreover, our analysis showed that patients with genotype AA of rs1642742 have a trend towards higher likelihood of developing ccRCC within their lifetime, while allele G of rs779805 can have a preventive effect against the development of renal cancer in stage 1. Therefore, these SNPs in VHL may be useful as genetic tumor markers for the molecular diagnostics for ccRCC patients.
Comparative Evaluation of the Effects of Amorphous Silica Nanoparticles on the Erythrocytes of Wistar Normotensive and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Ferdous Zannatul , Elzaki Ozaz , Beegam Sumaya , Zaaba Nur Elena , Tariq Saeed , Adeghate Ernest , Nemmar Abderrahim
Published: February 2023

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) are one of the most widely used nanomaterials. SiNPs can encounter erythrocytes and hypertension is strongly linked to abnormalities in the functional and structural characteristics of erythrocytes. As little is known about the combinatorial effect of SiNP-hypertension interactions on erythrocytes, the aim of this work was to study the effects triggered by hypertension on SiNPs induced hemolysis and the pathophysiological mechanism underlying it. We compared the interaction of amorphous 50 nm SiNPs at various concentrations (0.2, 1, 5 and 25 µg/mL) with erythrocytes of normotensive (NT) and hypertensive (HT) rats in vitro. Following incubation of the erythrocytes, SiNPs induced significant and dose-dependent increase in hemolysis. Transmission electron microscopy revealed erythrocyte deformity in addition to SiNPs taken up by erythrocytes. The erythrocyte susceptibility to lipid peroxidation was significantly increased. The concentration of reduced glutathione, and activities of superoxide dismutase, and catalase were significantly increased. SiNPs significantly increased intracellular Ca2+. Likewise, the concentration of the cellular protein annexin V and calpain activity was enhanced by SiNPs. Concerningly, all the tested parameters were significantly enhanced in erythrocytes from HT rats compared to NT rats. Our results collectively demonstrate that hypertension can potentially exacerbate the in vitro effect induced by SiNPs.
Matrix Metalloproteinases in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Christopoulou Maria-Elpida , Papakonstantinou Eleni , Stolz Daiana
Published: February 2023

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes that degrade proteins of the extracellular matrix and the basement membrane. Thus, these enzymes regulate airway remodeling, which is a major pathological feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Furthermore, proteolytic destruction in the lungs may lead to loss of elastin and the development of emphysema, which is associated with poor lung function in COPD patients. In this literature review, we describe and appraise evidence from the recent literature regarding the role of different MMPs in COPD, as well as how their activity is regulated by specific tissue inhibitors. Considering the importance of MMPs in COPD pathogenesis, we also discuss MMPs as potential targets for therapeutic intervention in COPD and present evidence from recent clinical trials in this regard.
FuseLGNet: Fusion of Local and Global Information for Detection of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Chen Ming , Ren Tao , Sun Pihai , Wu Jianfei , Zhang Jinfeng , Zhao Aite
Published: February 2023

In the past few years, the assessment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) has mainly been based on the clinician’s examination, the patient’s medical history, and self-report. Parkinson’s disease may be misdiagnosed due to a lack of clinical experience. Moreover, it is highly subjective and is not conducive to reflecting a true result. Due to the high incidence rate and increasing trend of PD, it is significant to use objective monitoring and diagnostic tools for accurate and timely diagnosis. In this paper, we designed a low-level feature extractor that uses convolutional layers to extract local information about an image and a high-level feature extractor that extracts global information about an image through the autofocus mechanism. PD is detected by fusing local and global information. The model is trained and evaluated on two publicly available datasets. Experiments have shown that our model has a strong advantage in diagnosing whether people have PD; gait-based analysis and recognition can also provide effective evidence for the early diagnosis of PD.
Did New Retail Enhance Enterprise Competition during the COVID-19 Pandemic? An Empirical Analysis of Operating Efficiency
Authors: Yang Yunpeng , Chen Hongmin , Liang Hejun
Published: February 2023

The question concerning how digital consumption demand has been adapted and how matching business models have been built has become an important practical problem in the digital development of the retail industry. Considering the effects of COVID-19, whether new retail enterprises can maintain adequate competitiveness and risk resilience in the post-pandemic era deserves in-depth study. In comparing the development of traditional retail and new retail enterprises, we extracted and evaluated key factors of enterprise operating efficiency. Then, we measured the transformation efficiency of 65 enterprises in China listed in 2016 and 2020 by establishing a DEA model and the Malmquist index method. Finally, based on an empirical analysis demonstrating the necessity of traditional retail transformation, we analyzed retail enterprises’ efficiency and dynamic efficiency changes. The results show that the operating efficiency of enterprises using the new retail model was higher than those using the traditional retail model. The technical efficiency and total factor productivity were significantly improved after the new retail model was applied. Both technological progress and improved technological efficiency contributed to the improvement in total factor productivity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Multilingual, Multimodal, and Multidisciplinary: Deaf Students and Translanguaging in Content Area Classes
Authors: Scott Jessica , Cohen Scott
Published: February 2023

Translanguaging is an approach to the education of multilingual students that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. Translanguaging is defined as the use of multiple languages and modalities during classroom instruction with the express purpose of encouraging and teaching students to use all their linguistic resources to make sense of content and demonstrate their understanding. Though there has been a great deal of research on translanguaging in general, this article focuses on two less-studied areas for translanguaging: the intersection of translanguaging in deaf education and content area education. Here, the authors explore the literature available in the domains of translanguaging and science, translanguaging and deaf students, and translanguaging in science classrooms with deaf students. Using the findings from these articles, the authors present four recommendations for teachers who want to engage in translanguaging in the content areas with deaf students: First, teachers can use both signed language and English (or other written languages) during instruction to expose students to essential concepts in multiple languages. Next, teachers can expose students to discipline and subject-specific written and signed words, as well as colloquial meanings of similar written and signed words (e.g., evidence versus fact versus proof in American Sign Language). Additionally, teachers should attempt to be visually oriented while translanguaging. Finally, we recommend that teachers encourage students to respond to questions or prompts using multiple languages and/or modalities. Implications of each recommendation are explored.
Synthesis of Graphene Quantum Dots Enhanced Nano Ca(OH)2 from Ammoniated CaCl2
Authors: Wang Feng , Gu Yaoqi , Zha Jianrui , Wei Shuya
Published: February 2023

Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles are effective materials for cultural heritage restoration, hazardous substance absorption and photocatalyst. However, many methods are complex, and the particle sizes are usually above 80–100 nm, involving mediocre efficacy for application in the stone restoration field. In this work, Nano Ca(OH)2 with diameters less than 70 nm and composited with Graphene Quantum Dots (GQDs) were successfully synthesized in aqueous media. The morphology and structure of the nanoparticles were investigated with TEM, HRTEM, XRD, Raman and FTIR. The particle size distribution and relative kinetic stability of the Ca(OH)2 in ethanol were performed using a laser particle size analyzer and spectrophotometer. Firstprinciple calculations based on the spin-polarized density functional theory (DFT) were carried out to study the reaction process and combination model. The nanoparticles, as prepared, are composed of primary hexagonal crystals and high ammoniated precursors, which have a positive effect on reducing the grain size, and interacted with the GQDs hybrid process. According to the First-principle calculations results, the energy variation of the whole reaction process and the bonding mode between Ca(OH)2 and GQDs can be understood better.
Nano Edible Coatings and Films Combined with Zinc Oxide and Pomegranate Peel Active Phenol Compounds Has Been to Extend the Shelf Life of Minimally Processed Pomegranates
Authors: Anean Hosam Aboul , Mallasiy L. O. , Bader Dina M. D. , Shaat Heba A.
Published: February 2023

Edible coating and film from chitosan and incorporating it with the action of ZnONPs on active phenol compounds from extracts of pomegranate peel (PPE) The physical and chemical properties of edible films composed of zinc oxide ZnONPs and active phenol compounds extracted from pomegranate peel (PPE) were investigated. Adding ZnONPs with active phenol compounds from extracted pomegranate peel(PPE) to chitosan films can provide safe edible films, decrease microbial growth and consequently prolong the shelf life of pomegranates, as well as improve the physiochemical stability of the pomegranate. The substances used in this experiment were film with a (A) extract of pomegranate peels (PPE), 5% (0.1%), (B)ZnONPs 1% (0.02%), (C) ZnONPs 2% (0.04%), (D) ZnONPs 3% (0.06%), (E) ZnONPs 1%/PPE1% (0.02%), (F) ZnONPs 2%/PPE2% (0.04%), (G) ZnONPs 3%/PPE3% (0.06%) wt% of chitosan on quality attributes and prolonging the shelf life of pomegranates were stored in plastic containers at 2 °C and 90–95% relative humidity for 20 days. The treatments of (G) ZnONPs 3%/PPE3% (0.06%) loaded on chitosan as well as chitosan and (D) ZnONPs 3% (0.06%) reduced the weight loss, had excellent microbial count until 20 days of storage, and recorded the lowest microbial count and mould & yeast colonies. Other chemical properties, such as total soluble solids content, acidity, anthocyanin content, firmness, and ascorbic acid, were investigated. Results indicated that ZnONPs 3%/PPE3% (0.06%) loaded on chitosan or ZnONPs 3% (0.06%) are the best treatments for preserving pomegranate arils. It was found that the best measurements were that the film-forming nan emulsion solutions decreased by E% 110 nm and B% 134 nm. Nano followed treatment, F% 188.7 nm, compared to nano edible films, which were A 0% 1312 nm.
An Approximately Isotropic Origami Honeycomb Structure and Its Energy Absorption Behaviors
Authors: Zhai Jiayue , Zhang Dingguo , Li Meng , Cui Chengbo , Cai Jianguo
Published: February 2023

Honeycomb structures have a wide range of applications owing to their light weight and promising energy absorption features. However, a conventional honeycomb structure is designed to absorb impact energy only in the out-of-plane direction and demonstrates unsatisfactory performance when the impact energy originates from a different direction. In this study, we proposed an origami honeycomb structure with the aim of providing an approximately isotropic energy absorption performance. The structure was created by folding a conventional honeycomb structure based on the Miura origami pattern, and it was investigated using both numerical and experimental approaches. Investigations of the structural behaviors under both out-of-plane and in-plane compressions were conducted, and the results revealed significantly different deformation modes in comparison with those of a conventional honeycomb structure. To determine the influences of geometries, we conducted a series of numerical studies, considering various structural parameters, and analyzed the response surface of the mean stress in three directions. Based on the numerical and experimental results, a parameter indicating the approximate isotropy of the origami honeycomb structure was introduced. The proposed structure is promising for absorbing energy from any direction and has potential applications in future metamaterial design work.
Effects of Partial Manganese Substitution by Cobalt on the Physical Properties of Pr0.7Sr0.3Mn(1−x)CoxO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) Manganites
Authors: Zdiri Feriel , Alonso José María , Mnasri Taoufik , de la Presa Patricia , Morales Irene , Martínez José Luis , Ben Younes Rached , Marin Pilar
Published: February 2023

We have investigated the structural, magnetic, and electrical transport properties of Pr0.7 Sr0.3 Mn(1−x)Cox O3 nanopowders (x = 0, 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15). The Pechini Sol-gel method was used to synthesize these nanopowders. X-ray diffraction at room temperature shows that all the nano powders have an orthorhombic structure of Pnma space group crystallography. The average crystallite size of samples x = 0, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15 are 33.78 nm, 29 nm, 33.61 nm, and 24.27 nm, respectively. Semi-quantitative chemical analysis by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) confirms the expected stoichiometry of the sample. Magnetic measurements indicate that all samples show a ferromagnetic (FM) to paramagnetic (PM) transition with increasing temperature. The Curie temperature TC gradually decreases (300 K, 270 K, 250 K, and 235 K for x = 0, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15, respectively) with increasing Co concentrations. The M-H curves for all compounds reveal the PM behavior at 300 K, while the FM behavior characterizes the magnetic hysteresis at low temperature (5 K). The electrical resistivity measurements show that all compounds exhibit metallic behavior at low temperature (T < Tρ) well fitted by the relation ρ = ρ0 + ρ2T2 + ρ4.5T4.5 and semiconductor behavior above Tρ (T > Tρ), for which the electronic transport can be explained by the variable range hopping model and the adiabatic small polaron hopping model. All samples have significant magnetoresistance (MR) values, even at room temperature. This presented research provides an innovative and practical approach to develop materials in several technological areas, such as ultra-high density magnetic recording and magneto resistive sensors.
On the Prediction of the Flow Behavior of Metals and Alloys at a Wide Range of Temperatures and Strain Rates Using Johnson–Cook and Modified Johnson–Cook-Based Models: A Review
Authors: Shokry Abdallah , Gowid Samer , Mulki Hasan , Kharmanda Ghais
Published: February 2023

This paper reviews the flow behavior and mathematical modeling of various metals and alloys at a wide range of temperatures and strain rates. Furthermore, it discusses the effects of strain rate and temperature on flow behavior. Johnson–Cook is a strong phenomenological model that has been used extensively for predictions of the flow behaviors of metals and alloys. It has been implemented in finite element software packages to optimize strain, strain rate, and temperature as well as to simulate real behaviors in severe conditions. Thus, this work will discuss and critically review the well-proven Johnson–Cook and modified Johnson–Cook-based models. The latest model modifications, along with their strengths and limitations, are introduced and compared. The coupling effect between flow parameters is also presented and discussed. The various methods and techniques used for the determination of model constants are highlighted and discussed. Finally, future research directions for the mathematical modeling of flow behavior are provided.
Synergistic Effect and Mechanism of Nano-C-S-H Seed and Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement on the Early Mechanical Properties of Portland Cement
Authors: Tang Ruifeng , Sun Dawei , Wang Zhaojia , Wang Ziming , Cui Suping , Ma Wenxu , Lan Mingzhang
Published: February 2023

The combined utilization of mineral accelerators and nano-seeding materials is a novel method to promote the early strength of cement-based materials. In this paper, the effects of nano-C-S-H seed (NCS) on the early compressive strength of the Portland cement (PC)– calcium sulfoaluminate cement (CSA) binder were investigated. The results showed that NCS and CSA synergistically contributed to the early strength of PC. In detail, a 326.3% increase in the 10 h compressive strength of PC paste was obtained through the addition of NCS (2 wt%) and CSA (5%) in common. This was higher than the sum of the increases observed with the single additions of CSA (157.9%) or NCS (87.6%), with the same above dosage, in PC. Meanwhile, the early strength enhancement effects of NCS and CSA, when used together in PC, lasted longer than the effects of either used alone. Moreover, the synergetic effect mechanism was analyzed by isothermal calorimeter, QXRD, TGA, MIP, and SEM techniques. The calorimetry, XRD, and TGA results demonstrated that the synergistic mechanism was associated with the synergistic promotion effects of CSA and NCS on the hydrates. The fast hydration of CSA produced large amounts of ettringite and also consumed partial free water to promote the performance of the seeding effect of NCS which, simultaneously, further accelerated the precipitation of C-S-H gel and CH. The high alkie environment was also beneficial for the continuous generation of ettringite. In addition, the results of MIP and SEM measurements showed that the micro-filling effect of NCS significantly optimized the pore structure of a PC-CSA blend-hardened paste. Thus, the synergistic strength enhancement effects of CSA and NCS on PC were attributed to the matching of the promotion of hydration generation and the optimization of pore structures in hardening cement paste. The results of this article provide a new approach to achieving the rapid development of the early strength of cementitious materials, with potential applications in precast concrete and low-temperature construction.
Gamma Attenuation Features of White Cement Mortars Reinforced by Micro/Nano Bi2O3 Particles
Authors: Gouda Mona M. , El-Khatib Ahmed M. , Abbas Mahmoud I. , Al-Balawi Shoaa Mofleh , Alabsy Mahmoud T.
Published: February 2023

This study aims to explore the radiation protection properties of white mortars based on white cement as a binder and Bi2O3 micro and nanoparticles in proportions of 15 and 30% by weight as replacement sand. The average particle size of micro- and nano-Bi2O3 was measured using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The cross-sectional morphology and distribution of Bi2O3 within the samples can be obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), showing that nanoscale Bi2O3 particles have a more homogeneous distribution within the samples than microscale Bi2O3 particles. The shielding parameters of the proposed mortars were measured using the HPGe detector at various γ-ray energies emitted by standard radioactive point sources 241Am, 133Ba, 60Co, 137Cs, and 152Eu. The experimental values of the prepared mortars’ mass attenuation coefficients (MAC) match well with those determined theoretically from the XCOM database. Other shielding parameters, including half value layer (HVL), tenth value layer (TVL), mean free path (MFP), effective electron density (Neff), effective atomic number (Zeff), equivalent atomic number (Zeq), and exposure buildup factor (EBF), were also determined at different photon energies to provide more shielding information about the penetration of gamma radiation into the selected mortars. The obtained results indicated that the sample containing 30% by weight of nano Bi2O3 has the largest attenuation coefficient value. Furthermore, the results show that the sample with a high concentration of Bi2O3 has the highest equivalent atomic numbers and the lowest HVL, TVL, MFP, and EBF values. Finally, it can be concluded that Bi2O3 nanoparticles have higher efficiency and protection compared to microparticles, especially at lower gamma-ray energies.
Parameter Optimization of RB-SiC Polishing by Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Yang Tingkai , Liu Changhua , Chen Tao , Shao Meng , Jiang Chun , Lu Changzheng , Song Shijun
Published: February 2023

Reaction-boned silicon carbide (RB-SiC) is considered a new material for large lightweight ground-based space telescopes due to its high specific stiffness, low thermal deformation, and excellent optical quality. The excellent mechanical properties of RB-SiC result in the low efficiency of traditional polishing and mechanical polishing. In this paper, a polishing method for RB-SiC based on a femtosecond laser is proposed to improve surface quality. A theoretical heat conduction model was established in the process of femtosecond laser irradiation of SiC. We analyzed the ablation type and calculated the single-pulse ablation threshold of SiC, which verified the feasibility of femtosecond laser polishing. Further, the effects of polishing parameters on the polished surface quality were analyzed by a series of experiments, and the optimal parameters were selected. It was observed to improve polishing efficiency and can replace the intermediate steps of traditional mechanical polishing.
Graphene/PVDF Nanocomposite-Based Accelerometer for Detection of Low Vibrations
Authors: Maharjan Surendra , Samoei Victor K. , Jayatissa Ahalapitiya H.
Published: February 2023

A flexible piezoresistive sensor was developed as an accelerometer based on Graphene/PVDF nanocomposite to detect low-frequency and low amplitude vibration of industrial machines, which may be caused due to misalignment, looseness of fasteners, or eccentric rotation. The sensor was structured as a cantilever beam with the proof mass at the free end. The vibration caused the proof mass to accelerate up and down, which was converted into an electrical signal. The output was recorded as the change in resistance (response percentage) with respect to the acceleration. It was found that this accelerometer has a capability of detecting acceleration up to 8 gpk-pk in the frequency range of 20 Hz to 80 Hz. The developed accelerometer has the potential to represent an alternative to the existing accelerometers due to its compactness, simplicity, and higher sensitivity for low frequency and low amplitude applications.
Recovery of Fatty Acid and Volatile Flavor Compound Composition in Farmed Tiger Puffer (Takifugu rubripes) with a Fish Oil-Finishing Strategy
Authors: Li Lin , Zhang Feiran , Meng Xiaoxue , Cui Xishuai , Ma Qiang , Wei Yuliang , Liang Mengqing , Xu Houguo
Published: February 2023

Booming fish farming results in a relative shortage of fish oil (FO) supply, meaning that alternative oils are increasingly used in fish feeds, which leads to reduction of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) and other relevant changes in fish products. This study investigated the efficacy of an FO-finishing strategy in recovering the muscle quality of farmed tiger puffer. An eight-week feeding trial (growing-out period) was conducted with five experimental diets, in which graded levels (0 (control), 25, 50, 75, and 100%) of added FO were replaced by poultry oil (PO). Following the growing-out period was a four-week FO-finishing period, during which fish in all groups were fed the control diet. Dietary PO significantly decreased the muscle LC-PUFA content, whereas in general, the FO-finishing strategy recovered it to a level comparable with that of the group fed FO continuously. The recovery efficiency of EPA was higher than that of DHA. Dietary PO also led to changes of volatile flavor compounds in the muscle, such as butanol, pentenal, and hexenal, whereas the FO-finishing strategy mitigated the changes. In conclusion, the FO-finishing strategy is promising in recovering the LC-PUFA and volatile-flavor-compound composition in farmed tiger puffer after the feeding of PO-based diets.
Effect of Low- and High-Frequency Auricular Stimulation with Electro-Acupuncture on Cutaneous Microcirculation: A Cross-Over Study in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Gagliardi Veronica , Gagliardi Giuseppe , Ceccherelli Francesco , Lovato Antonello
Published: February 2023

Background: The regulation of microcirculation depends on the dynamic interaction of different factors: the autonomic nervous system plays a pivotal role in the blood flow and acupuncture can modulate it, obtaining different results depending on the site, the frequency, and the intensity of the stimulation. Methods: 18 healthy subjects have been enrolled and have undergone two sessions of electroacupuncture stimulations: one session using high frequency and one with low frequency. Microcirculation has been monitored continuously during stimulation using the laser Doppler method. Results: The microcirculatory parameters have shown a significant difference between high and low-frequency stimulation, suggesting that low-frequency stimulation is more effective for obtaining a vasodilator effect. Discussion: Our results show that low-frequency stimulation can increase the cutaneous microcirculatory flux, without significantly modifying blood pressure and heart rate. The auricular stimulation causes an increase in the activity of the vagus nerve, increasing the cholinergic activity without acting on post-junctional muscarinic receptors. Conclusion: Auricular acupuncture has a significant impact on the regulation of microcirculation.
Effects of Cadmium on Liver Function and its Metabolomics Profile in the Guizhou Black Goat
Authors: Li Yuanfeng , Shen Xiaoyun
Published: February 2023

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal, which will lead to ecosystem contamination, threatening the life of grazing animals. Goats are an important grazing animal biomarker to evaluate Cd toxicity, but the effect of short-term and high-concentration Cd toxicity on goat liver function and its latent mechanism is still unclear. A total of ten male Guizhou black goats were randomly divided into two groups: CON group, sterilized tap water (no CdCl2), and Cd group (20 mg Cd·kg−1·BW, CdCl2⋅2.5H2O). The test lasted for 30 days. In this study, we found that Cd poisoning in drinking water affected significantly the distribution of Cd in the goat offal and tissues, and damaged the goat’s immune function of the liver. With a metabolomics approach, 59 metabolites were identified. Metabolomics analysis suggested that Cd affected lipid and amino acid metabolism of the goat liver. Collectively, our results confirmed the effect of Cd on liver function and liver metabolism, and provided insights on the molecular basis for early warnings of Cd poisoning in goats.
MEMS Reliability: On-Chip Testing for the Characterization of the Out-of-Plane Polysilicon Strength
Authors: Vicentini Ferreira do Valle Tiago , Mariani Stefano , Ghisi Aldo , De Masi Biagio , Rizzini Francesco , Gattere Gabriele , Valzasina Carlo
Published: February 2023

Polycrystalline silicon is a brittle material, and its strength results are stochastically linked to microscale (or even nanoscale) defects, possibly dependent on the grain size and morphology. In this paper, we focus on the out-of-plane tensile strength of columnar polysilicon. The investigation has been carried out through a combination of a newly proposed setup for on-chip testing and finite element analyses to properly interpret the collected data. The experiments have aimed to provide a static loading to a stopper, exploiting electrostatic actuation to move a massive shuttle against it, up to failure. The failure mechanism observed in the tested devices has been captured by the numerical simulations. The data have been then interpreted by the Weibull theory for three different stopper sizes, leading to an estimation of the reference out-of-plane strength of polysilicon on the order of 2.8–3.0 GPa, in line with other results available in the literature.
Hotspots Reduction for GALS NoC Using a Low-Latency Multistage Packet Reordering Approach
Authors: Li Zhenmin , Shen Ruimin , Yi Maoxiang , Song Yukun , Wang Xiaolei , Du Gaoming , Huang Zhengfeng
Published: February 2023

Traffic splitting enabled by Globally Asynchronous Locally Synchronous (GALS) Network-on-chip (NoC) brings multipath routing capability, which significantly increases link bandwidth at the cost of out-of-order packet delivery. Solving the packet reordering problem is one of the keys to ensure the quality of service (QoS) for NoC. However, traditional packet reordering approaches rely on local reorder buffer, causing on-chip hotspots, which aggravates chip aging and even leads to interconnection failures. In this paper, we present a multistage packet reordering (MPR) approach, which cannot only reduce the transmission latency but also effectively reduces hotspots caused by local reordering. Specifically, we propose multistage reordering buffer (MRB) by reusing channel buffers for implementing MPR. Experimental results show that our proposed approach achieved improved thermal efficiency with reduced hardware resource consumption.
Expanding the Set of Three-Input Logic Functions in Inverted T-Shaped TFETs
Authors: Ye Hao , Wang Pengjun , Li Gang , Shi Yijian , Chen Bo , Li Xiangyu , Hu Jianping
Published: February 2023

Three-input logic primitives show high efficiency in logic synthesis compared to traditional two-input logic, which encourages researchers to implement three-input logic gates with emerging nanotechnologies. This paper demonstrates a compact implementation of three-input monotone logic gates based on the inverted T-shaped TFET. Firstly, based on the gate coupling mechanism in the novel inverted T channel, the BTBT current can be suppressed in the vertical or horizontal region to achieve the channel strobe. Therefore, the typical three-input monotone logic functions, Majority, OrAnd, and AndOr, are successfully implemented on a single transistor. Then, a simplified potential model describing gate coupling is established to describe the impact of key device parameters on the logic behavior. Combined with TCAD simulation, the design rules of devices with different logic functions are given. Finally, a series of three-input monotonic logic gates are designed and verified. The results show that the use of the proposed TFETs can effectively save the number of transistors in the three-input logic gate, which indicates that the three-input TFET is a compact and flexible candidate for three-input logic gates.
Artificial Light-at-Night Exposure and Overweight and Obesity across GDP Levels among Chinese Children and Adolescents
Authors: Dang Jiajia , Shi Di , Li Xi , Ma Ning , Liu Yunfei , Zhong Panliang , Yan Xiaojin , Zhang Jingshu , Lau Patrick W. C. , Dong Yanhui , Song Yi , Ma Jun
Published: February 2023

Background: Evidence in adults suggests that exposure to artificial light-at-night (ALAN) leads to obesity. However, little is known about whether this effect exists in children and adolescents. We aimed to investigate whether ALAN exposure was associated with overweight and obesity in school-aged children and adolescents and whether this association varied with socioeconomic status. Methods: Data on the height and weight of 129,500 children and adolescents aged 10–18 years from 72 cities were extracted from the 2014 Chinese National Survey on Students’ Constitution and Health (CNSSCH). The ALAN area percentage and average ALAN intensity were calculated using the Visible/Infrared Imager/Radiometer Suite. The subjects were separated into three categories based on the cities’ gross domestic product per capita (GDPPC). A mixed-effect logistic regression model and generalized additive model (GAM) were utilized to evaluate the association between ALAN exposure and overweight and obesity in children and adolescents stratified by municipal GDPPC. Results: Both ALAN area (OR = 1.194, 95% CI: 1.175–1.212) and ALAN intensity (OR = 1.019, 95% CI: 1.017–1.020) were positively associated with overweight and obesity in children and adolescents, and the associations remained robust after adjusting for covariates. ORs for overweight and obesity and ALAN area decreased as GDPPC level increased (first tertile: OR = 1.457, 95% CI: 1.335–1.590; second tertile: OR = 1.350, 95% CI: 1.245–1.464; third tertile: OR = 1.100, 95% CI: 1.081–1.119). Similar results were observed for ALAN intensity. In the GAM models, thresholds existed in almost all these spline trends, indicating that ALAN might have a nonlinear association with overweight and obesity. Conclusions: ALAN contributed to the development of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents and this effect differed with GDPPC. Future longitudinal studies should confirm the causal relationship between ALAN and obesity. Moreover, reducing unnecessary exposure to artificial light at night may have beneficial implications for controlling childhood and adolescent obesity, particularly in low-income areas.
Gut-Microbiota, and Multiple Sclerosis: Background, Evidence, and Perspectives
Authors: Altieri Clelia , Speranza Barbara , Corbo Maria Rosaria , Sinigaglia Milena , Bevilacqua Antonio
Published: February 2023

Many scientific studies reveal a significant connection between human intestinal microbiota, eating habits, and the development of chronic-degenerative diseases; therefore, alterations in the composition and function of the microbiota may be accompanied by different chronic inflammatory mechanisms. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), in which autoreactive immune cells attack the myelin sheaths of the neurons. The purpose of this paper was to describe the main changes that occur in the gut microbiota of MS patients, with a focus on both microbiota and its implications for health and disease, as well as the variables that influence it. Another point stressed by this paper is the role of microbiota as a triggering factor to modulate the responses of the innate and adaptive immune systems, both in the intestine and in the brain. In addition, a comprehensive overview of the taxa modified by the disease is presented, with some points on microbiota modulation as a therapeutic approach for MS. Finally, the significance of gastro-intestinal pains (indirectly related to dysbiosis) was assessed using a case study (questionnaire for MS patients), as was the willingness of MS patients to modulate gut microbiota with probiotics.
The Role of Microorganisms in the Development of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Alessandri-Bonetti Mario , Jeong Tiffany , Vaienti Luca , De La Cruz Carolyn , Gimbel Michael L. , Nguyen Vu T. , Egro Francesco M.
Published: February 2023

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a variant of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) associated with textured-surface silicone breast implants. Since first being described in 1997, over 1100 cases have been currently reported worldwide. A causal relationship between BIA-ALCL and textured implants has been established in epidemiological studies, but a multifactorial process is likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of BIA-ALCL. However, pathophysiologic mechanisms remain unclear. One of the hypotheses that could explain the link between textured implants and BIA-ALCL consists in the greater tendency of bacterial biofilm in colonizing the surface of textured implants compared to smooth implants, and the resulting chronic inflammation which, in predisposed individuals, may lead to tumorigenesis. This review summarizes the existing evidence on the role of micro-organisms and rough surface implants in the development of BIA-ALCL. It also provides insights into the most updated clinical practice knowledge about BIA-ALCL, from clinical presentation and investigation to treatment and outcomes.
In Silico and In Vitro Screening of Serine Racemase Agonist and In Vivo Efficacy on Alzheimer’s Disease Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lu Chih-Hao , Chang Hao-Teng , Hsu Lee-Fen , Lee Ming-Hsueh , Cheng Jack , Wu Dong Chuan , Lin Wei-Yong
Published: February 2023

The NMDA receptor hypofunction has been implicated in schizophrenia, memory impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease. Modulating the abundance of D-serine, a co-agonist of the NMDA receptor, is a strategy to treat symptoms of the NMDA receptor hypofunction. In contrast to D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) inhibitors, which aim at decreasing the loss of D-serine, this study tried to identify serine racemase (SRR) agonists, which boost the conversion of L-serine to D-serine. We used holo and apo structures of human SRR for the molecular docking against the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and ZINC compound databases and validated their efficacy by in vitro SRR activity assay. We identified NSC294149 (2-amino-3-(3-nitroimidazo[1,2-a]pyridin-2-yl)sulfanylpropanoic acid) as a potential SRR agonist and confirmed its amelioration of the hazard ratio of survival of the AD model of fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster). These results suggest that the SRR agonist could be a drug design target against the NMDA receptor hypofunction symptoms.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of Meldrum’s Acid Derivatives: Dual Activity and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Bukhari Syed Nasir Abbas , Abdelgawad Mohamed Abdelwahab , Ahmed Naveed , Amjad Muhammad Wahab , Hussain Muhammad Ajaz , Elsherif Mervat A. , Ejaz Hasan , Alotaibi Nasser H. , Filipović Ignjat , Janković Nenad
Published: February 2023

In the presented study, eight novel Meldrum’s acid derivatives containing various vanillic groups were synthesized. Vanillidene Meldrum’s acid compounds were tested against different cancer cell lines and microbes. Out of nine, three showed very good biological activity against E. coli, and HeLa and A549 cell lines. It is shown that the O-alkyl substituted derivatives possessed better antimicrobial and anticancer activities in comparison with the O-acyl ones. The decyl substituted molecule (3i) has the highest activity against E. coli (MIC = 12.4 μM) and cancer cell lines (HeLa, A549, and LS174 = 15.7, 21.8, and 30.5 μM, respectively). The selectivity index of 3i is 4.8 (HeLa). The molecular docking study indicates that compound 3i showed good binding affinity to DNA, E. coli Gyrase B, and topoisomerase II beta. The covalent docking showed that 3i was a Michael acceptor for the nucleophiles Lys and Ser. The best Eb was noted for the topoisomerase II beta-LYS482-3i cluster.
Efficacy of Quetiapine Monotherapy and Combination Therapy for Patients with Bipolar Depression with Mixed Features: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zhang Danhua , Du Yanli , Wang Yin , Huang Tingting , Ng Chee H. , Huang Huimin , Pan Yanmeng , Lai Jianbo , Hu Shaohua
Published: February 2023

Effective pharmacotherapy of bipolar depression with mixed features defined by DSM-5 remains unclear in clinical treatment guidelines. Quetiapine (QTP) and valproate have potential treatment utility but are often inadequate as monotherapy. Meanwhile, the efficacy of combination therapies of QTP plus valproate or lithium have yet to be verified. Hence, we conducted a randomized controlled pilot study to evaluate the efficacy of QTP monotherapy in patients with bipolar depression with mixed features defined by DSM-5 and compared the combination therapy of QTP plus valproate (QTP + V) versus QTP plus lithium (QTP + L) for those patients who responded insufficiently to QTP monotherapy. Data was analyzed according to the intent-to-treat population. Generalized linear mixed model was performed by using “nlme” package in R software. A total 56 patients were enrolled, among which, 35 patients responded to QTP alone, and 11 and 10 patients were randomly assigned to QTP + V and QTP + L group, respectively. Nearly 60% enrolled patients responded to QTP monotherapy at the first two weeks treatment. No statistically significant difference in efficacy between QTP + V and QTP + L was observed. In conclusion, QTP monotherapy appeared to be efficacious in patients with bipolar depression with mixed features, and for those who responded insufficiently to QTP, combining with either valproate or lithium appeared to have positive effects.
EGFR and p38MAPK Contribute to the Apoptotic Effect of the Recombinant Lectin from Tepary Bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Dena-Beltrán José Luis , Nava-Domínguez Porfirio , Palmerín-Carreño Dulce , Martínez-Alarcón Dania , Moreno-Celis Ulisses , Valle-Pacheco Magali , Castro-Guillén José Luis , Blanco-Labra Alejandro , García-Gasca Teresa
Published: February 2023

Previous works showed that a Tepary bean lectin fraction (TBLF) induced apoptosis on colon cancer cells and inhibited early colonic tumorigenesis. One Tepary bean (TB) lectin was expressed in Pichia pastoris (rTBL-1), exhibiting similarities to one native lectin, where its molecular structure and in silico recognition of cancer-type N-glycoconjugates were confirmed. This work aimed to determine whether rTBL-1 retained its bioactive properties and if its apoptotic effect was related to EGFR pathways by studying its cytotoxic effect on colon cancer cells. Similar apoptotic effects of rTBL-1 with respect to TBLF were observed for cleaved PARP-1 and caspase 3, and cell cycle G0/G1 arrest and decreased S phase were observed for both treatments. Apoptosis induction on SW-480 cells was confirmed by testing HA2X, p53 phosphorylation, nuclear fragmentation, and apoptotic bodies. rTBL-1 increased EGFR phosphorylation but also its degradation by the lysosomal route. Phospho-p38 increased in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, matching apoptotic markers, and STAT1 showed activation after rTBL-1 treatment. The results show that part of the rTBL-1 mechanism of action is related to p38 MAPK signaling. Future work will focus further on the target molecules of this recombinant lectin against colon cancer.
Freeze-Drying of Pharmaceuticals in Vials Nested in a Rack System—Part I: Freezing Behaviour
Authors: Pisano Roberto , Artusio Fiora , Adami Marco , Barresi Antonello A. , Fissore Davide , Frare Maria Chiara , Zanetti Francesco , Zunino Gabriele
Published: February 2023

The distribution of biopharmaceuticals often requires either ultra-cold conditions or lyophilisation. In both cases, the drug product is frozen and, thus, exposed to similar stress conditions, which can be detrimental to its quality. However, these stresses can be inhibited or mitigated by a suitable formulation and/or an appropriate freezing design. This paper addresses how the key freezing parameters, i.e., ice nucleation temperature and cooling rate, impact the freezing behaviour of a sucrose-based formulation. The analysis included two loading configurations, vials directly resting on the shelf and nested in a rack system. The loading configuration affected the product freezing rate and the ice nucleation temperature distribution, resulting in larger ice crystals in the case of vials nested in a rack system. SEM micrographs and specific surface area measurements confirmed the different product morphology. Eventually, the different product morphology impacted the bioactivity recovery of lactate dehydrogenase.
Exosome-Based Delivery of Super-Repressor IκBα Alleviates Alcohol-Associated Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Kim Hee-Hoon , Shim Young-Ri , Choi Sung Eun , Falana Tolulope Esther , Yoo Jae-Kwang , Ahn So-Hee , Park Minhye , Seo Hyangmi , Choi Chulhee , Jeong Won-Il
Published: February 2023

Activation of Kupffer cells (KCs) by gut-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS) instigates nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)-mediated inflammatory responses in alcohol-associated liver diseases (ALD). Here, we utilized a novel optogenetically engineered exosome technology called ‘exosomes for protein loading via optically reversible protein–protein interactions (EXPLOR)’ to efficiently deliver the super-repressor IκB-loaded exosomes (Exo-srIκB) to the liver and examined its therapeutic potential in acute-on-chronic alcohol-associated liver injury. We detected enhanced uptake of DiI-labeled Exo-srIκB by LPS-treated inflammatory KCs, which suppressed LPS-induced inflammatory gene expression levels. In animal experiments, a single intravenous injection of Exo-srIκB prior to alcohol binge drinking significantly attenuated alcohol-associated hepatic steatosis and infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages but not a liver injury. Notably, three consecutive days of Exo-srIκB injection remarkably reduced alcohol-associated liver injury, steatosis, apoptosis of hepatocytes, fibrosis-related gene expression levels in hepatic stellate cells, infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages, and inflammatory gene expression levels in hepatocytes and KCs. In particular, the above effects occurred with inhibition of nuclear translocation of NF-κB in liver tissues, and these beneficial effects of Exo-srIκB on ALD were shown regardless of doses. Our results suggest an exosome-based modulation of NF-κB activity in KCs by Exo-srIκB as a novel and efficient therapeutic approach in ALD.