bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Application of an Extracellular Vesicle-Based Biosensor in Early Diagnosis and Prediction of Chemoresponsiveness in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Asare-Werehene Meshach , Hunter Robert A. , Gerber Emma , Reunov Arkadiy , Brine Isaiah , Chang Chia-Yu , Chang Chia-Ching , Shieh Dar-Bin , Burger Dylan , Anis Hanan , Tsang Benjamin K.
Published: May 2023

Background: Ovarian cancer (OVCA) is the most fatal gynecological cancer with late diagnosis and plasma gelsolin (pGSN)-mediated chemoresistance representing the main obstacles to treatment success. Since there is no reliable approach to diagnosing patients at an early stage as well as predicting chemoresponsiveness, there is an urgent need to develop a diagnostic platform for such purposes. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are attractive biomarkers given their potential accuracy for targeting tumor sites. Methods: We have developed a novel biosensor which utilizes cysteine-functionalized gold nanoparticles that simultaneously bind to cisplatin (CDDP) and plasma/cell-derived EVs, affording us the advantage of predicting OVCA chemoresponsiveness, and early diagnosis using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Results: We found that pGSN regulates cortactin (CTTN) content resulting in the formation of nuclear- and cytoplasmic-dense granules facilitating the secretion of sEVs carrying CDDP; a strategy used by resistant cells to survive CDDP action. The clinical utility of the biosensor was tested and subsequently revealed that the sEV/CA125 ratio outperformed CA125 and sEV individually in predicting early stage, chemoresistance, residual disease, tumor recurrence, and patient survival. Conclusion: These findings highlight pGSN as a potential therapeutic target and provide a potential diagnostic platform to detect OVCA earlier and predict chemoresistance; an intervention that will positively impact patient-survival outcomes.
Dose Escalation of Oropharyngeal Cancer: Long-Time Follow-Up and Side Effects
Authors: Embring Anna , Onjukka Eva , Mercke Claes , Lax Ingmar , Berglund Anders , Friesland Signe
Published: May 2023

Previous studies on dose-escalated radiotherapy in head and neck cancer have shown mixed results, and it is not established which patients would benefit from dose escalation. Further, while dose escalation does not appear to increase late toxicity, this needs to be confirmed with longer follow-up. In this study, we analysed treatment outcome and toxicity in 215 patients with oropharyngeal cancer treated with dose-escalated radiotherapy (>72 Gy, EQD2, α/β = 10 Gy, boost by brachytherapy or simultaneous integrated boost) and a matched cohort of 215 patients treated with standard dose external-beam radiotherapy (68 Gy) between 2011 and 2018 at our institution. The 5-year overall survival (OS) was 77.8% (72.4–83.6) and 73.7% (67.8–80.1) in the dose-escalated and standard dose group, respectively (p = 0.24). Median follow-up was 78.1 (49.2–98.4) and 60.2 (38.9–89.4) months in the dose-escalated and standard dose groups, respectively. Grade ≥3 osteoradionecrosis (ORN) and late dysphagia were more common in the dose-escalated group compared to the standard dose group, with 19 (8.8%) vs. 4 (1.9%) patients developing grade ≥3 ORN (p = 0.001), and 39 (18.1%) vs. 21 (9.8%) patients developing grade ≥3 dysphagia (p = 0.01). No predictive factors to help select patients for dose-escalated radiotherapy were found. However, the remarkably good OS in the dose-escalated cohort, despite a predominance of advanced tumour stages, encourages further attempts to identify such factors.
In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Cancer Stemness as Prognostic Markers of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sharma Revati , Balta Showan , Raza Ali , Escalona Ruth M. , Kannourakis George , Prithviraj Prashanth , Ahmed Nuzhat
Published: May 2023

The process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) involves the phenotypic transformation of cells from epithelial to mesenchymal status. The cells exhibiting EMT contain features of cancer stem cells (CSC), and the dual processes are responsible for progressive cancers. Activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) is fundamental to the pathogenesis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and their role in promoting EMT and CSCs is crucial for ccRCC tumour cell survival, disease progression, and metastatic spread. In this study, we explored the status of HIF genes and their downstream targets, EMT and CSC markers, by immunohistochemistry on in-house accrued ccRCC biopsies and adjacent non-tumorous tissues from patients undergoing partial or radical nephrectomy. In combination, we comprehensively analysed the expression of HIF genes and its downstream EMT and CSC-associated targets relevant to ccRCC by using publicly available datasets, the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) and the clinical proteome tumour analysis consortium (CPTAC). The aim was to search for novel biological prognostic markers that can stratify high-risk patients likely to experience metastatic disease. Using the above two approaches, we report the development of novel gene signatures that may help to identify patients at a high risk of developing metastatic and progressive disease.
Inhibition of PLK1 Destabilizes EGFR and Sensitizes EGFR-Mutated Lung Cancer Cells to Small Molecule Inhibitor Osimertinib
Authors: Eggermont Carolien , Gutierrez Gustavo J. , De Grève Jacques , Giron Philippe
Published: May 2023

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have significantly prolonged survival in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer patients. However, the development of resistance mechanisms prohibits the curative potential of EGFR TKIs. Combination therapies emerge as a valuable approach to preventing or delaying disease progression. Here, we investigated the combined inhibition of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) and EGFR in TKI-sensitive EGFR-mutant NSCLC cells. The pharmacological inhibition of PLK1 destabilized EGFR levels and sensitized NSCLC cells to Osimertinib through induction of apoptosis. In addition, we found that c-Cbl, a ubiquitin ligase of EGFR, is a direct phosphorylation target of PLK1 and PLK1 impacts the stability of c-Cbl in a kinase-dependent manner. In conclusion, we describe a novel interaction between mutant EGFR and PLK1 that may be exploited in the clinic. Co-targeting PLK1 and EGFR may improve and prolong the clinical response to EGFR TKI in patients with an EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
Thermal Inactivation Mechanism and Structural Features Providing Enhanced Thermal Stability of Hyperthermophilic Thermococcus sibiricus L-Asparaginase in Comparison with Mesophilic and Thermophilic L-Asparaginases
Authors: Dobryakova Natalia , Zhdanov Dmitry , Dumina Maria , Aleksandrova Svetlana , Pokrovskaya Marina , Genin Alexander , Shishparenok Anastasia , Zhgun Alexander , Kudryashova Elena Vadimovna
Published: May 2023

This work aimed to study the structural features and mechanisms of thermoinactivation of hyperthermophilic L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) from archaea Thermococcus sibiricus (TsA) in comparison with bacterial L-ASNases from Melioribacter roseus (MrA) and Rhodospirillum rubrum (RrA). The catalytic parameters of L-asparagine hydrolysis under optimal conditions (pH 9) were determined for these enzymes by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. TsA showed the highest activity among the studied L-ASNases (640 IU/mg at 90 °C). Thermo-inactivation kinetics were studied at temperatures close to the enzyme optimum: the first-order inactivation constants were 0.065 min−1 (TsA), 0.011 min−1 (MrA), and 0.026 min−1 (RrA). In contrast to RrA and MrA, aggregation was detected as one of the thermoinactivation mechanisms for TsA. From the analysis of thermograms obtained with CD spectroscopy, the melting temperatures (Tm) for RrA, MrA, and TsA were determined as 50, 69, and 89 °C, respectively. A significant increase in the percentage of β-structures for TsA during heating (from 8 to 16%) indicating aggregation was observed in the interval from 70 to 100 °C. For RrA and MrA this value did not increase. Changes in the tertiary structure of the enzymes during heating were monitored by fluorescence spectroscopy. Thermal inactivation of RrA and MrA were accompanied by changes in the tertiary structure. For TsA, the observed denaturation enthalpy (ΔH) was 346 kJ/mol, which was 1.5–2 times higher than the same values for RrA and MrA. The study of the specific thermoinactivation mechanisms and structural- features in hyperthermophilic enzymes in comparison with mesophilic ones allows us to shed light on the molecular adaptation variants of the enzyme to function at high temperatures.
Analysis of Immunophenotypic Changes during Ex Vivo Human Erythropoiesis and Its Application in the Study of Normal and Defective Erythropoiesis
Authors: Katiyar Shobhita , Shah Arunim , Rahman Khaliqur , Tripathy Naresh Kumar , Kashyap Rajesh , Nityanand Soniya , Chaturvedi Chandra Prakash
Published: May 2023

Erythropoiesis is a highly regulated process and undergoes several genotypic and phenotypic changes during differentiation. The phenotypic changes can be evaluated using a combination of cell surface markers expressed at different cellular stages of erythropoiesis using FACS. However, limited studies are available on the in-depth phenotypic characterization of progenitors from human adult hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) to red blood cells. Therefore, using a set of designed marker panels, in the current study we have kinetically characterized the hematopoietic, erythroid progenitors, and terminally differentiated erythroblasts ex vivo. Furthermore, the progenitor stages were explored for expression of CD117, CD31, CD41a, CD133, and CD45, along with known key markers CD36, CD71, CD105, and GPA. Additionally, we used these marker panels to study the stage-specific phenotypic changes regulated by the epigenetic regulator; Nuclear receptor binding SET Domain protein 1 (NSD1) during erythropoiesis and to study ineffective erythropoiesis in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) patients. Our immunophenotyping strategy can be used to sort and study erythroid-primed hematopoietic and erythroid precursors at specified time points and to study diseases resulting from erythroid dyspoiesis. Overall, the current study explores the in-depth kinetics of phenotypic changes occurring during human erythropoiesis and applies this strategy to study normal and defective erythropoiesis.
Fetal Lung Interstitial Tumor (FLIT): Review of The Literature
Authors: Perin Silvia , Cataldo Ivana , Baciorri Francesca , Santoro Luisa , Dei Tos Angelo , Guido Maria , Midrio Paola
Published: May 2023

Fetal lung interstitial tumor (FLIT) is an extremely rare pediatric lung tumor that shares radiological features with congenital pulmonary malformations (cPAM) and other lung neoplasms. A review of the literature, together with the first European case, are herein reported. A systematic and manual search of the literature using the keyword “fetal lung interstitial tumor” was conducted on PUBMED, Scopus, and SCIE (Web of Science). Following the PRISMA guidelines, 12 articles were retrieved which describe a total of 21 cases of FLIT, and a new European case is presented. A prenatal diagnosis was reported in only 3 out of 22 (13%) cases. The mean age at surgery was 31 days of life (1–150); a lobectomy was performed in most of the cases. No complications or recurrence of disease were reported at a mean follow-up of 49 months. FLIT is rarely diagnosed during pregnancy, may present at birth with different levels of respiratory distress, and requires prompt surgical resection. Histology and immunohistochemistry allow for the differentiation of FLIT from cPAM and other lung tumors with poor prognosis, such as pleuropulmonary blastoma, congenital peri-bronchial myofibroblastic tumor, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, and congenital or infantile fibrosarcoma.
Beneficial Perioperative Aspects Favor the Use of Percutaneous Crossed Pinning over Antegrade Nailing in Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures—A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Greve Frederik , Biberthaler Peter , Castellani Christoph , Singer Georg , Till Holger , Wegmann Helmut
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in pediatric patients can be treated by either antegrade nailing (AN) or percutaneous crossed pinning (PCP). The aim of this study was to compare the intra- and perioperative management, complications and outcome of AN and PCP. (2) Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 271 individuals (median age 5 years, IQR 4–7 years) who underwent AN (n = 173) or PCP (n = 98). Patient history was analyzed for incidence of nerve injuries, postoperative treatment, postoperative malrotation, time of hospital stay, time to implant removal and revision rate. Operative procedures were investigated for duration and radiation exposure. (3) Results: PCP was associated with a significantly lower radiation exposure (dose area product: PCP mean 20.1 cGycm2 vs. AN mean 34.7 cGycm2, p < 0.001; fluoroscopy time: PCP mean 1.1 min, range 0.1–8.1 min, vs. AN mean 1.5 min, range 0.1–7.1 min, p < 0.001), duration of surgery (PCP mean 32.2 min vs. AN mean 48.3 min, p < 0.001) and time to implant removal (PCP mean 37 days vs. AN mean 113 days, p < 0.001). Cast removal was performed earlier in the AN group (PCP mean 30.2 days vs. AN mean 20.4 days, p < 0.001) and there were fewer iatrogenic nerve lesions (PCP: 24% vs. AN: 8%, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: In the investigated study population, the analyzed parameters seem to favor the use of PCP. The advantages of AN should be weighed against its drawbacks. For special indications, AN remains a relevant technique in supracondylar fracture treatment, and surgeons should be familiar with this procedure.
The Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Gut Microbiota: What Can Animal Models Tell Us?—A Systematic Review
Authors: Fernandes Ana , Oliveira Ana , Soares Raquel , Barata Pedro
Published: May 2023

Background: The gut microbiota is relatively stable; however, various factors can precipitate an imbalance that is known to be associated with various diseases. We aimed to conduct a systematic literature review of studies reporting the effects of ionizing radiation on the composition, richness, and diversity of the gut microbiota of animals. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases. The standard methodologies expected by Cochrane were utilized. Results: We identified 3531 non-duplicated records and selected twenty-nine studies after considering the defined inclusion criteria. The studies were found to be heterogeneous, with significant differences in the chosen populations, methodologies, and outcomes. Overall, we found evidence of an association between ionizing radiation exposure and dysbiosis, with a reduction of microbiota diversity and richness and alterations in the taxonomic composition. Although differences in taxonomic composition varied across studies, Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, Alistipes, and Akkermancia most consistently reported to be relatively more abundant after ionizing radiation exposure, whereas Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Lactobacillus were relatively reduced. Conclusions: This review highlights the effect of ionizing exposure on gut microbiota diversity, richness, and composition. It paves the way for further studies on human subjects regarding gastrointestinal side effects in patients submitted to treatments with ionizing radiation and the development of potential preventive, therapeutic approaches.
Use of Propyl Gallate in Cardoon Biodiesel to Keep Its Main Properties during Oxidation
Authors: Nogales-Delgado Sergio , Guiberteau Cabanillas Agustina , Moro Juan Pedro , Encinar Martín José María
Published: May 2023

The use of alternatives for petroleum-based products is becoming more and more important, especially considering the new and constantly changing geopolitical context, where excessive energy dependence is not desirable. Thus, biodiesel could play an important role in contributing to the implementation of biorefineries, which represent desirable goals in terms of sustainability, green chemistry and the circular economy. However, one challenge related to biodiesel based on vegetable oils is its low oxidative stability, which can alter the properties of these products during storage. To avoid this problem, interesting antioxidants, such as propyl gallate (PG), could be added to biodiesel to allow it to keep its main properties during oxidation. Additionally, monitoring PG content during oxidation is interesting, and the use of voltammetry could be suitable for this purpose. The aim of this work was to assess the effectiveness of PG during cardoon biodiesel oxidation, while monitoring the process through cyclic voltammetry (CV). As a result, it was proven that PG was highly effective, increasing the length of oxidative stability to more than 10 h at low concentrations (600 mg·L−1) and retaining its main properties (viscosity and acidity) during oxidation. Regarding CV, this technique was successfully optimized to determine PG concentration in cardoon biodiesel during oxidation.
Supporting the Conservation and Restoration OpenLab of the Acropolis of Ancient Tiryns through Data Modelling and Exploitation of Digital Media
Authors: Moraitou Efthymia , Konstantakis Markos , Chrysanthi Angeliki , Christodoulou Yannis , Pavlidis George , Alexandridis George , Kotsopoulos Konstantinos , Papastamatiou Nikolaos , Papadimitriou Alkistis , Caridakis George
Published: May 2023

Open laboratories (OpenLabs) in Cultural Heritage institutions are an effective way to provide visibility into the behind-the-scenes processes and promote documentation data collected and produced by domain specialists. However, presenting these processes without proper explanation or communication with specialists may cause issues in terms of visitors’ understanding. To support OpenLabs and disseminate information, digital media and efficient data management can be utilized. The CAnTi (Conservation of Ancient Tiryns) project seeks to design and implement virtual and mixed reality applications that visualize conservation and restoration data, supporting OpenLab operations at the Acropolis of Ancient Tiryns. Semantic Web technologies will be used to model the digital content, facilitating organization and interoperability with external sources in the future. These applications will be part of the OpenLab activities on the site, enhancing visitors’ experiences and understanding of current and past conservation and restoration practices.
Ionic Conductivity of Lithium Phosphides
Authors: Maltsev Alexey P. , Chepkasov Ilya V. , Kvashnin Alexander G. , Oganov Artem R.
Published: May 2023

We comprehensively study the ionic conductivity in lithium phosphides, promising materials for energy storage applications, by using a combination of first-principles computations and machine learning interatomic potentials. Using the quasiharminic approximation, we calculated convex hulls of the Li-P system at various temperatures and the temperature-composition phase diagram was obtained, delineating the stability regions of each phase. The ionic conductivity of stable (Li3P, LiP, Li3P7, Li3P11, LiP7) and metastable (Li4P3, Li5P4, LiP5) compounds was studied as a function of temperature. In some compounds we found have high ionic conductivity at room temperatures (10−3–10−2 S cm−1). Structures with the lowest ionic conductivity are LiP, Li3P11, and LiP7, in which diffusion is negligible in the whole temperature range 300–500 K. In Li3P, Li3P7, and Li4P3, LiP, there is the 3D diffusion of Li atoms, while in Li5P4 the 2D mechanism prevails, and in LiP5 and LiP7 the 1D mechanism was observed. This study may provide insights for the development of Li-P materials in lithium ion and lithium metal battery applications.
From Source to Tap: Tracking Microbial Diversity in a Riverbank Filtration-Based Drinking Water Supply System under Changing Hydrological Regimes
Authors: Vargha Márta , Róka Eszter , Erdélyi Norbert , Németh Kitti , Nagy-Kovács Zsuzsanna , Kós Péter B. , Engloner Attila I.
Published: May 2023

In drinking water supply, riverbank filtration (RBF) is an efficient and cost-effective way of eliminating pathogens and micropollutants using a combination of biotic and abiotic processes. Microbial communities in the hyporheic zone both contribute to and are shaped by these processes. Microbial water quality at the point of consumption is in turn influenced by the source water microbiome, water treatment and distribution system. Understanding microbial community shifts from source to tap and the factors behind them is instrumental in maintaining safe drinking water delivery. To this end, microbial communities of an RBF-based drinking water supply system were investigated by metabarcoding in a one-year sampling campaign. Samples were collected from the river, RBF wells, treated water, and a consumer’s tap. Metabarcoding data were analysed in the context of physicochemical and hydrological parameters. Microbial diversity as well as cell count decreased consistently from the surface water to the tap. While Proteobacteria were dominant throughout the water supply system, typical river water microbiome phyla Bacteroidota, Actinobacteria, and Verrucomicrobiota were replaced by Nitrospira, Patescibacteria, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteriota, Methylomicrobilota, and the archaeal phylum Nanoarcheota in well water. Well water communities were differentiated by water chemistry, in wells with high concentration groundwater derived iron, manganese, and sulphate, taxa related to iron and sulphur biogeochemical cycle were predominant, while methane oxidisers characterised the more oxic wells. Chlorine-resistant and filtration-associated taxa (Acidobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bdellovibrionota) emerged after water treatment, and no potentially pathogenic taxa were identified at the point of consumption. River discharge had a distinct impact on well water microbiome indicative of vulnerability to climate change. Low flow conditions were characterised by anaerobic heterotrophic taxa (Woesarchaeales, Aenigmarchaeales, and uncultured bacterial phyla MBNT15 and WOR-1), implying reduced efficiency in the degradation of organic substances. High flow was associated the emergence of typical surface water taxa. Better understanding of microbial diversity in RBF water supply systems contributes to preserving drinking water safety in the future changing environment.
The GRPR Antagonist [99mTc]Tc-maSSS-PEG2-RM26 towards Phase I Clinical Trial: Kit Preparation, Characterization and Toxicity
Authors: Abouzayed Ayman , Borin Jesper , Lundmark Fanny , Rybina Anastasiya , Hober Sophia , Zelchan Roman , Tolmachev Vladimir , Chernov Vladimir , Orlova Anna
Published: May 2023

Gastrin-releasing peptide receptors (GRPRs) are overexpressed in the majority of primary prostate tumors and in prostatic lymph node and bone metastases. Several GRPR antagonists were developed for SPECT and PET imaging of prostate cancer. We previously reported a preclinical evaluation of the GRPR antagonist [99mTc]Tc-maSSS-PEG2-RM26 (based on [D-Phe6, Sta13, Leu14-NH2]BBN(6-14)) which bound to GRPR with high affinity and had a favorable biodistribution profile in tumor-bearing animal models. In this study, we aimed to prepare and test kits for prospective use in an early-phase clinical study. The kits were prepared to allow for a one-pot single-step radiolabeling with technetium-99m pertechnetate. The kit vials were tested for sterility and labeling efficacy. The radiolabeled by using the kit GRPR antagonist was evaluated in vitro for binding specificity to GRPR on PC-3 cells (GRPR-positive). In vivo, the toxicity of the kit constituents was evaluated in rats. The labeling efficacy of the kits stored at 4 °C was monitored for 18 months. The biological properties of [99mTc]Tc-maSSS-PEG2-RM26, which were obtained after this period, were examined both in vitro and in vivo. The one-pot (gluconic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, stannous chloride, and maSSS-PEG2-RM26) single-step radiolabeling with technetium-99m was successful with high radiochemical yields (>97%) and high molar activities (16–24 MBq/nmol). The radiolabeled peptide maintained its binding properties to GRPR. The kit constituents were sterile and non-toxic when tested in living subjects. In conclusion, the prepared kit is considered safe in animal models and can be further evaluated for use in clinics.
Effects of Guanidinoacetic Acid on Ruminal Fermentation and Greenhouse Gas Production Using Fresh Forage and Silage from Different Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes
Authors: Alvarado-Ramírez Edwin Rafael , Andrade-Yucailla Verónica , Elghandour Mona Mohamed Mohamed Yasseen , Acosta-Lozano Néstor , Rivas-Jacobo Marco Antonio , López-Aguirre Daniel , Garay-Martínez Jonathan Raúl , Vazquez-Mendoza Paulina , Barros-Rodríguez Marcos , Salem Abdelfattah Zeidan Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) is a feed additive that promotes growth in animals, while maize (Zea mays L.) is used for the mitigation of ruminal greenhouse gases. However, it is unknown if GAA affects the efficiency of maize in mitigating gases or if there is synergy between them. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro production of total gas, methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), ruminal fermentation characteristics, and the CH4 conversion efficiency of fresh forage and silage of different genotypes (Amarillo, Montesa, Olotillo, Tampiqueño, and Tuxpeño) of maize, with and without the addition of GAA. The silage of the Amarillo genotype without AAG had the highest (p = 0.01) total gas production rate and the lowest (p = 0.044) delay time before gas production. In addition, at 48 h, the Amarillo silage with GAA increased the production of total gas (p = 0.0001) and CH4, as well as the proportion of CH4 (mL CH4 100 mL−1 total gas). The Amarillo and Tuxpeño genotype produced more (p = 0.033) CO in the first 24 h of incubation, while silage and the addition of GAA only increased (p = 0.001) CO at 6 h. The highest (p = 0.02) H2S production was observed with the ensiled Amarillo genotype with GAA. Regarding fermentation characteristics, the silage of the Amarillo and Montesa genotypes presented the highest degradation of dry matter (DMD), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and metabolizable energy (ME), and although there was no effect on CH4 efficiency, the Amarillo and Olotillo genotypes produced more SCFA, ME, and OM per unit of CH4. It can be concluded that rumen gas production, fermentation characteristics, and CH4 conversion efficiency are more influenced by the maize genotype and forage condition than by the addition of guanidinoacetic acid, and of the genotypes evaluated, the forage silage from Amarillo showed the best characteristics and efficiency of CH4.
Correlation Analysis between Wheat Flour Solvent Retention Capacity and Gluten Aggregation Characteristics
Authors: Gong Wei , Wang Xiaohua , Wang Fengjiao , Wang Jinshui
Published: May 2023

Solvent retention capacity (SRC) is a test for the solvation of wheat flour. Its functional contribution was predicted according to the swelling behavior of different diagnostic solvents to different polymeric components of wheat. Ten commercial wheat flour varieties were used as raw materials in this study. The flour quality, gluten aggregation and solvent retention capacity, and their correlations were analyzed. The results showed that protein content, wet gluten content, dry gluten content and the swelling index of glutenin were positively correlated with torque maximum (BEM), torque 15 s before maximum torque (AM), torque 15 s after maximum torque (PM) and gluten aggregation energy (AGGEN). Moreover, they were significantly correlated with the solvent retention capacity. BEM, AM, PM and AGGEN were positively correlated with standard solvent water-SRC (WSRC) and lactic acid-SRC (LASRC). For supplemental solvents, ethanol-SRC (EthSRC) was positively correlated with AGGEN. Sodium dodecyl sulphate-SRC (SDSSRC) was highly correlated with peak maximum time (PMT). Metabisulfite-SRC (MBSSRC) and MBS + SDSSRC were also significantly correlated with BEM, AM, PM and AGGEN sodium metabisulfite. There were significant correlations between gluten aggregation characteristic, standard SRC solvent and supplemental solvent. This study provides a theoretical basis for the evaluation of wheat flour quality.
Defining Candidate Imprinted loci in Bos taurus
Authors: Bina Minou
Published: May 2023

Using a whole-genome assembly of Bos taurus, I applied my bioinformatics strategy to locate candidate imprinting control regions (ICRs) genome-wide. In mammals, genomic imprinting plays essential roles in embryogenesis. In my strategy, peaks in plots mark the locations of known, inferred, and candidate ICRs. Genes in the vicinity of candidate ICRs correspond to potential imprinted genes. By displaying my datasets on the UCSC genome browser, one could view peak positions with respect to genomic landmarks. I give two examples of candidate ICRs in loci that influence spermatogenesis in bulls: CNNM1 and CNR1. I also give examples of candidate ICRs in loci that influence muscle development: SIX1 and BCL6. By examining the ENCODE data reported for mice, I deduced regulatory clues about cattle. I focused on DNase I hypersensitive sites (DHSs). Such sites reveal accessibility of chromatin to regulators of gene expression. For inspection, I chose DHSs in chromatin from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) ES-E14, mesoderm, brain, heart, and skeletal muscle. The ENCODE data revealed that the SIX1 promoter was accessible to the transcription initiation apparatus in mouse ESCs, mesoderm, and skeletal muscles. The data also revealed accessibility of BCL6 locus to regulatory proteins in mouse ESCs and examined tissues.
Full-Arch Guided Restoration and Bone Regeneration: A Complete Digital Workflow Case Report
Authors: Todaro Claudia , Cerri Michael , Rodriguez y Baena Ruggero , Lupi Saturnino Marco
Published: May 2023

Objective: complex rehabilitations present multiple difficulties, regarding both the planification of the surgery and the design of the prothesis. A digital approach can support the workflow, as well as the degree of intraoperative precision, and improve the long-term prognosis. Methods: A surgical guide was designed for implant placement. An extensive regeneration of the upper jaw was performed with contextual implant insertion, and a delayed load rehabilitation was chosen. After four months, a second surgery and a simultaneous soft tissue augmentation was performed, and a 3D-printed temporary restoration was placed. After another two months, new dental and facial scans, smile design, and facial bite registrations were obtained. Upper and lower dentures were built using an exclusively digital workflow. Both metal substructures were passivated and cemented in one session; in the following appointment, the aesthetic and occlusal checks were carried out. During the third visit, both prostheses were delivered. Results: Careful case planning and the surgical guide made it possible to achieve primary stability and acceptable emergence profiles in an extremely reabsorbed upper jaw. Leukocyte-Platelet Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) made the extensive bone regeneration more approachable and lowered the post-operative pain and swelling, while speeding up the soft tissue healing process. During the re-entry surgery, the volumes of soft tissues were increased to improve aesthetics, and the amount of keratinized gingiva around the six implants was also increased. Smile design and facial scans have provided the means to create acceptable aesthetics and function in a few sessions with minimal patient discomfort. Conclusions: Computer-assisted implantology is a safe and precise method of performing dental implant surgery. Preliminary studies have a high degree of accuracy, but further studies are needed to arrive at a fully digital clinical protocol at all stages.
Health Risk Assessment of Exposure to Air Pollutants Exceeding the New WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Wikuats Caroline Fernanda Hei , Nogueira Thiago , Squizzato Rafaela , de Freitas Edmilson Dias , Andrade Maria de Fatima
Published: May 2023

We applied the AirQ+ model to analyze the 2021 data within our study period (15 December 2020 to 17 June 2022) to quantitatively estimate the number of specific health outcomes from long- and short-term exposure to atmospheric pollutants that could be avoided by adopting the new World Health Organization Air Quality Guidelines (WHO AQGs) in São Paulo, Southeastern Brazil. Based on temporal variations, PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 exceeded the 2021 WHO AQGs on up to 54.4% of the days during sampling, mainly in wintertime (June to September 2021). Reducing PM2.5 values in São Paulo, as recommended by the WHO, could prevent 113 and 24 deaths from lung cancer (LC) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) annually, respectively. Moreover, it could avoid 258 and 163 hospitalizations caused by respiratory (RD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) due to PM2.5 exposure. The results for excess deaths by RD and CVD due to O3 were 443 and 228, respectively, and 90 RD hospitalizations due to NO2. Therefore, AirQ+ is a useful tool that enables further elaboration and implementation of air pollution control strategies to reduce and prevent hospital admissions, mortality, and economic costs due to exposure to PM2.5, O3, and NO2 in São Paulo.
Assessment of the Croatian Open Data Portal Using User-Oriented Metrics
Authors: Miletić Andrea , Kuveždić Divjak Ana , Welle Donker Frederika
Published: May 2023

Open data portals are web services that serve as a central access point for all government-published open data and can exist at local, regional, national, and international levels. They are an important element of most open data initiatives that have enabled a large amount of government data to be widely available. However, data quantity and quality are not the only aspects that should be considered when publishing data. To improve the reusability of data and to achieve greater impact and benefits from open data, it is important to consider user-oriented aspects of the portal management, discovery, and use of data (e.g., organizing the portal in a user-centric way, providing accurate metadata, using a standardized and open data format, etc.). In this paper, we adopted the metrics proposed by the European Commission to assess compliance of the Croatian Open Data Portal with 10 user-oriented principles that open data portals should implement in terms of sustainability and added value. While the results show the government’s efforts in publishing data, some aspects such as better collaboration with data providers and other data portals, offering different visualization tools, etc. need to be improved to achieve active use and impact.
Assessment of Perceived and Physical Walkability Using Street View Images and Deep Learning Technology
Authors: Kang Youngok , Kim Jiyeon , Park Jiyoung , Lee Jiyoon
Published: May 2023

As neighborhood walkability has gradually become an important topic in various fields, many cities around the world are promoting an eco-friendly and people-centered walking environment as a top priority in urban planning. The purpose of this study is to visualize physical and perceived walkability in detail and analyze the differences to prepare alternatives for improving the neighborhood’s walking environment. The study area is Jeonju City, one of the medium-sized cities in Korea. For the evaluation of perceived walkability, 196,624 street view images were crawled and 127,317 pairs of training datasets were constructed. After developing a convolutional neural network model, the scores of perceived walkability are predicted. For the evaluation of physical walkability, eight indicators are selected, and the score of overall physical walkability is calculated by combining the scores of the eight indicators. After that, the scores of perceived and physical walkability are visualized, and the difference between them is analyzed. This study is novel in three aspects. First, we develop a deep learning model that can improve the accuracy of perceived walkability using street view images, even in small and medium-sized cities. Second, in analyzing the characteristics of street view images, the possibilities and limitations of the semantic segmentation technique are confirmed. Third, the differences between perceived and physical walkability are analyzed in detail, and how the results of our study can be used to prepare alternatives for improving the walking environment is presented.
The Role of Loan-Related Risk Appetite in the Relationship between Financial Risk Considerations and MSME Growth Decision: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Leyeza Ralph Stephen , Boado Mikka Marielle , Butacan Obed , Moreno Donn Enrique , Deocariza Lourdes
Published: May 2023

While many studies have focused on assessing performance, studies that pivot on growth itself are limited. To contribute in this area, this study used the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) Model as its foundation in order to explore how inflation and access to finance affected loan-related risk appetite, also known as their willingness to bear either debt-related or opportunity-related risks arising from loan acceptance or avoidance, respectively. Subsequently, the mediating effect of loan-related risk appetite between inflation and access to finance and growth decision was also investigated. The analysis of links between variables under scrutiny was premised on the utilization of partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), with the data resulting from a purposive sampling method comprising 80 respondents who are owners and/or managers of their MSME business operating for at least two (2) years. The findings present that access to finance, as well as loan-related risk appetite, has direct links to growth decision. Access to finance was also found to have direct effects to loan-related risk appetite. On the other hand, it was found that loan-related risk appetite functions as a partial mediator between access to finance and growth decision. Contrarily, the aforementioned circumstances cannot be observed for inflation.
Artificial Intelligence-Based Prediction of Spanish Energy Pricing and Its Impact on Electric Consumption
Authors: Hernández Rodríguez Marcos , Baca Ruiz Luis Gonzaga , Criado Ramón David , Pegalajar Jiménez María del Carmen
Published: May 2023

The energy supply sector faces significant challenges, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which affect the stability and efficiency of the energy system. In this study, we highlight the importance of electricity pricing and the need for accurate models to estimate electricity consumption and prices, with a focus on Spain. Using hourly data, we implemented various machine learning models, including linear regression, random forest, XGBoost, LSTM, and GRU, to forecast electricity consumption and prices. Our findings have important policy implications. Firstly, our study demonstrates the potential of using advanced analytics to enhance the accuracy of electricity price and consumption forecasts, helping policymakers anticipate changes in energy demand and supply and ensure grid stability. Secondly, we emphasize the importance of having access to high-quality data for electricity demand and price modeling. Finally, we provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of different machine learning algorithms for electricity price and consumption modeling. Our results show that the LSTM and GRU artificial neural networks are the best models for price and consumption modeling with no significant difference.
Novel Selective PPARα Modulator Pemafibrate for Dyslipidemia, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Yamashita Shizuya , Rizzo Manfredi , Su Ta-Chen , Masuda Daisaku
Published: May 2023

Statins, the intestinal cholesterol transporter inhibitor (ezetimibe), and PCSK9 inhibitors can reduce serum LDL-C levels, leading to a significant reduction in cardiovascular events. However, these events cannot be fully prevented even when maintaining very low LDL-C levels. Hypertriglyceridemia and reduced HDL-C are known as residual risk factors for ASCVD. Hypertriglyceridemia and/or low HDL-C can be treated with fibrates, nicotinic acids, and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Fibrates were demonstrated to be PPARα agonists and can markedly lower serum TG levels, yet were reported to cause some adverse effects, including an increase in the liver enzyme and creatinine levels. Recent megatrials of fibrates have shown negative findings on the prevention of ASCVD, which were supposed to be due to their low selectivity and potency for binding to PPAR α. To overcome the off-target effects of fibrates, the concept of a selective PPARα modulator (SPPARMα) was proposed. Kowa Company, Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan), has developed pemafibrate (K-877). Compared with fenofibrate, pemafibrate showed more favorable effects on the reduction of TG and an increase in HDL-C. Fibrates worsened liver and kidney function test values, although pemafibrate showed a favorable effect on liver function test values and little effect on serum creatinine levels and eGFR. Minimal drug–drug interactions of pemafibrate with statins were observed. While most of the fibrates are mainly excreted from the kidney, pemafibrate is metabolized in the liver and excreted into the bile. It can be used safely even in patients with CKD, without a significant increase in blood concentration. In the megatrial of pemafibrate, PROMINENT, for dyslipidemic patients with type 2 diabetes, mild-to-moderate hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-C and LDL-C levels, the incidence of cardiovascular events did not decrease among those receiving pemafibrate compared to those receiving the placebo; however, the incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease was lower. Pemafibrate may be superior to conventional fibrates and applicable to CKD patients. This current review summarizes the recent findings on pemafibrate.
The Geology, Petrography, and Geochemistry of Egyptian Dokhan Volcanics: A Potential Source for Construction Aggregate
Authors: El-Desoky Hatem , Abd El-Hafez Nabil , Khalil Ahmed , Arafat Ahmed , Hasan Mahmoud Galal , Youssef Tarik
Published: May 2023

The present paper focuses on the geology, petrography, and geochemistry of the well-known Dokhan volcanics encountered in the northern part of the Eastern Desert of Egypt. The basalts, andesites, rhyolites, and agglomerates exposed at the Makhar Seal (flood plain) as well as Wadi Abu Zoghot, Wadi El-Ghafiryia, Wadi Al-Radah Luman, Wadi Al-Ushsh, Wadi Umm Sidrah, and Gabal Ghuwayrib are herein examined as sources of coarse aggregate in concrete mixes. A representative total of 28 samples—collected from different Dokhan volcanics—was studied in terms of field geology, petrography, and geochemistry wherein a variety of experiments related to construction material validation apply. The petrographic examination revealed that the studied Dokhan volcanics consist of basic, intermediate, and acidic volcanic igneous rocks. These rocks are represented through basalts, andesites, imperial porphyry, dacites, rhyodacites, rhyolites, and their pyroclastics. Furthermore, the applied geochemical analysis indicated that the studied Dokhan volcanics are alkaline to sub-alkaline, calc-alkaline and classified as basalts, basaltic andesites, andesites, trachyandesites, trachydacites, trachytes, and rhyolites, indicating an initial potential as aggregate for concrete mixes. Finally, the results obtained from incorporating Dokhan volcanics as aggregates in concrete mixes demonstrated a significant improvement in regard to the properties of the comprising concrete mixes. Herein, a higher compressive strength was witnessed after 28 days for Dokhan volcanic concrete, when compared to concrete comprising dolomite aggregate, amounting to an average increase that exceeded 36%.
Cadmium Sulfide Nanoparticles: Preparation, Characterization, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ghasempour Alireza , Dehghan Hamideh , Ataee Mehrnaz , Chen Bozhi , Zhao Zeqiang , Sedighi Mahsa , Guo Xindong , Shahbazi Mohammad-Ali
Published: May 2023

Cadmium sulfide nanoparticles (CdS NPs) have been employed in various fields of nanobiotechnology due to their proven biomedical properties. They are unique in their properties due to their size and shape, and they are popular in the area of biosensors, bioimaging, and antibacterial and anticancer applications. Most CdS NPs are generally synthesized through chemical, physical, or biological methods. Among these methods, biogenic synthesis has attracted more attention due to its high efficiency, environmental friendliness, and biocompatibility features. The green approach was found to be superior to other methods in terms of maintaining the structural characteristics needed for optimal biomedical applications. The size and coating components of CdS NPs play a crucial role in their biomedical activities, such as anticancer, antibacterial, bioimaging, and biosensing applications. CdS NPs have gained significant interest in bioimaging due to their desirable properties, including good dispersion, cell integrity preservation, and efficient light scattering. Despite these, further studies are necessary, particularly in vivo studies to reduce NPs’ toxicity. This review discusses the different methods of synthesis, how CdS NPs are characterized, and their applications in the biomedical field.
Metal Nanoparticle-Flavonoid Connections: Synthesis, Physicochemical and Biological Properties, as Well as Potential Applications in Medicine
Authors: Sysak Stepan , Czarczynska-Goslinska Beata , Szyk Piotr , Koczorowski Tomasz , Mlynarczyk Dariusz T. , Szczolko Wojciech , Lesyk Roman , Goslinski Tomasz
Published: May 2023

Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds widely occurring throughout the plant kingdom. They are biologically active and have many medical applications. Flavonoids reveal chemopreventive, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidant properties, as well as being able to modulate the immune system response and inhibit inflammation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Polyphenols are also believed to reverse multidrug resistance via various mechanisms, induce apoptosis, and activate cell death signals in tumor cells by modulating cell signaling pathways. The main limitation to the broader usage of flavonoids is their low solubility, poor absorption, and rapid metabolism. To tackle this, the combining of flavonoids with nanocarriers could improve their bioavailability and create systems of wider functionalities. Recently, interest in hybrid materials based on combinations of metal nanoparticles with flavonoids has increased due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties, including improved selectivity toward target sites. In addition, flavonoids have further utilities, even in the initial step of preparation of metal nanomaterials. The review offers knowledge on multiple possibilities of the synthesis of flavonoid-metal nanoparticle conjugates, as well as presents some of their features such as size, shape, surface charge, and stability. The flavonoid-metal nanoparticles are also discussed regarding their biological properties and potential medical applications.