bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Scorpion Toxin ω-Buthitoxin-Hf1a Selectively Inhibits Calcium Influx via CaV3.3 and CaV3.2 and Alleviates Allodynia in a Mouse Model of Acute Postsurgical Pain
Authors: Wang Dan , Herzig Volker , Dekan Zoltan , Rosengren K. Johan , Payne Colton D. , Hasan Md. Mahadhi , Zhuang Jiajie , Bourinet Emmanuel , Ragnarsson Lotten , Alewood Paul F. , Lewis Richard J.
Published: April 2024

Venom peptides have evolved to target a wide range of membrane proteins through diverse mechanisms of action and structures, providing promising therapeutic leads for diseases, including pain, epilepsy, and cancer, as well as unique probes of ion channel structure-function. In this work, a high-throughput FLIPR window current screening assay on T-type CaV3.2 guided the isolation of a novel peptide named ω-Buthitoxin-Hf1a from scorpion Hottentotta franzwerneri crude venom. At only 10 amino acid residues with one disulfide bond, it is not only the smallest venom peptide known to target T-type CaVs but also the smallest structured scorpion venom peptide yet discovered. Synthetic Hf1a peptides were prepared with C-terminal amidation (Hf1a-NH2) or a free C-terminus (Hf1a-OH). Electrophysiological characterization revealed Hf1a-NH2 to be a concentration-dependent partial inhibitor of CaV3.2 (IC50 = 1.18 μM) and CaV3.3 (IC50 = 0.49 μM) depolarized currents but was ineffective at CaV3.1. Hf1a-OH did not show activity against any of the three T-type subtypes. Additionally, neither form showed activity against N-type CaV2.2 or L-type calcium channels. The three-dimensional structure of Hf1a-NH2 was determined using NMR spectroscopy and used in docking studies to predict its binding site at CaV3.2 and CaV3.3. As both CaV3.2 and CaV3.3 have been implicated in peripheral pain signaling, the analgesic potential of Hf1a-NH2 was explored in vivo in a mouse model of incision-induced acute post-surgical pain. Consistent with this role, Hf1a-NH2 produced antiallodynia in both mechanical and thermal pain.
ERECTA Modulates Seed Germination and Fruit Development via Auxin Signaling in Tomato
Authors: Chen Daoyun , Xu Yuqing , Li Jiawei , Shiba Hiroshi , Ezura Hiroshi , Wang Ning
Published: April 2024

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) breeding for improved fruit quality emphasizes selecting for desirable taste and characteristics, as well as enhancing disease resistance and yield. Seed germination is the initial step in the plant life cycle and directly affects crop productivity and yield. ERECTA (ER) is a receptor-like kinase (RLK) family protein known for its involvement in diverse developmental processes. We characterized a Micro-Tom EMS mutant designated as a knock-out mutant of sler. Our research reveals that SlER plays a central role in controlling critical traits such as inflorescence development, seed number, and seed germination. The elevation in auxin levels and alterations in the expression of ABSCISIC ACID INSENSITIVE 3 (ABI3) and ABI5 in sler seeds compared to the WT indicate that SlER modulates seed germination via auxin and abscisic acid (ABA) signaling. Additionally, we detected an increase in auxin content in the sler ovary and changes in the expression of auxin synthesis genes YUCCA flavin monooxygenases 1 (YUC1), YUC4, YUC5, and YUC6 as well as auxin response genes AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 5 (ARF5) and ARF7, suggesting that SlER regulates fruit development via auxin signaling.
Quantum Information: Systems, Their States, and the Use of Variances
Authors: Deville Alain , Deville Yannick
Published: April 2024

Quantum information mobilizes the description of quantum systems, their states, and their behavior. Since a measurement postulate introduced by von Neumann in 1932, if a quantum system has been prepared in two different mixed states represented by the same density operator ρ, these preparations are said to have led to the same mixture. For more than 50 years, there has been a lack of consensus about this postulate. In a 2011 article, considering variances of spin components, Fratini and Hayrapetyan tried to show that this postulate is unjustified. The aim of the present paper is to discuss major points in this 2011 article and in their reply to a 2012 paper by Bodor and Diosi claiming that their analysis was irrelevant. Facing some ambiguities or inconsistencies in the 2011 paper and in the reply, we first try to guess their aim, establish results useful in this context, and finally discuss the use or misuse of several concepts implied in this debate.
Consumption of β-Caryophyllene Increases the Mating Success of Bactrocera zonata Males (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: ul Haq Ihsan , Fatima Sehar , Rasool Awais , Shelly Todd E.
Published: April 2024

The peach fruit fly, Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is an economically important polyphagous quarantine pest of horticultural crops endemic to South and Southeast Asia. Methyl eugenol (ME), a naturally occurring phenylpropanoid, is a male attractant used to lure and (when mixed with an insecticide) annihilate the males from the wild population, a method of pest control termed the male annihilation technique (MAT). ME is reported to enhance the mating success of sterile males of Bactrocera spp., which is critical for enhancing the effectiveness of the sterile insect technique (SIT). The suppressed response of ME-treated males to ME-baited traps/devices allows the simultaneous application of the MAT and SIT, increasing the efficiency of area-wide integrated pest management (AW-IPM) programs. However, ME treatment in sterile males in SIT facilities is logistically difficult. β-caryophyllene (BCP) is a widely occurring, safer plant compound and is considered suitable for treating males in SIT facilities. Here, we demonstrate that BCP feeding enhanced B. zonata male mating success to the same extent as ME feeding. Feeding on BCP suppressed the male’s subsequent attraction to ME-baited traps, but not to the same degree as feeding on ME. The results are discussed and BCP is suggested as an alternative to ME for the concurrent use of the MAT and SIT.
Upf2-Mediated Nonsense-Mediated Degradation Pathway Involved in Genetic Compensation of TrpA1 Knockout Mutant Silkworm (Bombyx mori)
Authors: Wang Dong-Yue , Zhu Juan , Zhang Yi-Zhong , Cui Qian-Yi , Wang Shan-Shan , Ning Yang-Wei , Shen Xing-Jia
Published: April 2024

Genetic mutations leading to premature termination codons are known to have detrimental effects. Using the Lepidoptera model insect, the silkworm (Bombyx mori), we explored the genetic compensatory response triggered by mutations with premature termination codons. Additionally, we delved into the molecular mechanisms associated with the nonsense-mediated mRNA degradation pathway. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was utilized to generate a homozygous bivoltine silkworm line BmTrpA1−/− with a premature termination. Transcript levels were assessed for the BmTrpA paralogs, BmPyrexia and BmPainless as well as for the essential factors Upf1, Upf2, and Upf3a involved in the nonsense-mediated mRNA degradation (NMD) pathway. Upf2 was specifically knocked down via RNA interference at the embryonic stage. The results comfirmed that the BmTrpA1 transcripts with a 2-base deletion generating a premature termination codon in the BmTrpA1−/− line. From day 6 of embryonic development, the mRNA levels of BmPyrexia, BmPainless, Upf1, and Upf2 were significantly elevated in the gene-edited line. Embryonic knockdown of Upf2 resulted in the suppression of the genetic compensation response in the mutant. As a result, the offspring silkworm eggs were able to hatch normally after 10 days of incubation, displaying a non-diapause phenotype. It was observed that a genetic compensation response does exist in BmTrpA1−/− B. mori. This study presents a novel discovery of the NMD-mediated genetic compensation response in B. mori. The findings offer new insights into understanding the genetic compensation response and exploring the gene functions in lepidopteran insects, such as silkworms.
Exploring TSLP and IL-33 Serum Levels and Genetic Variants: Unveiling Their Limited Potential as Biomarkers for Mild Asthma in Children
Authors: Połomska Joanna , Sikorska-Szaflik Hanna , Drabik-Chamerska Anna , Sozańska Barbara , Dębińska Anna
Published: April 2024

As the burden of mild asthma is not well understood, the significance of expanding research in the group of patients with mild asthma is emphasized. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and interleukin 33 (IL-33) are involved in the pathogenesis of atopy and the immune response to inhaled environmental insults, such as allergens, in asthmatic patients. Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore the correlation between specific polymorphisms within the genes encoding TSLP and IL-33, as well as the concentrations of TSLP and IL-33 in the serum, and the occurrence of pediatric mild asthma. Methods: The analysis encompassed 52 pediatric patients diagnosed with mild bronchial asthma, including both atopic and non-atopic cases, and a control group of 26 non-asthmatic children. Recruitment was conducted through a comprehensive questionnaire. Parameters such as allergic sensitization, serum levels of circulating TSLP and IL-33, and the identification of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in TSLP (rs11466750 and rs2289277) and IL-33 (rs992969 and rs1888909) were assessed for all participants. Results: Significantly lower mean serum TSLP concentrations were observed in asthmatic subjects compared to the control group, with atopic asthma patients showing even lower TSLP levels than non-atopic counterparts. No significant differences were found in mean serum IL-33 concentrations between the two groups. Considering the allele model, for both tested SNPs of IL-33, we observed that patients with asthma, atopic asthma, and atopy statistically less frequently possess the risk allele. Conclusions: Our study findings suggest that IL-33 and TSLP do not serve as ideal biomarkers for mild asthma in children. Their effectiveness as biomarkers might be more relevant for assessing disease severity rather than identifying asthma in pediatric patients. Further research focusing on the association between TSLP and IL-33 gene polymorphisms and asthma is expected to significantly advance disease management.
Role of CES1 and ABCB1 Genetic Polymorphisms on Functional Response to Dabigatran in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Cumitini Luca , Renda Giulia , Giordano Mara , Rolla Roberta , Shail Tarek , Sacchetti Sara , Iezzi Lorena , Giacomini Luca , Zanotti Valentina , Auciello Raffaella , Angilletta Ilaria , Foglietta Melissa , Zucchelli Mirco , Antonucci Ivana , Stuppia Liborio , Gallina Sabina , Dianzani Umberto , Patti Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Background: Dabigatran etexilate is a pro-drug hydrolyzed into dabigatran by carboxylesterases (CES) and is a substrate of the P-Glycoprotein encoded by the adenosine-triphosphate-binding cassette sub-family B member (ABCB)1 genes. We evaluated the functional response to dabigatran according to different CES1 and ABCB1 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: A total of 100 consecutive patients with AF taking dabigatran were enrolled by two Italian centers. A venous blood sample was drawn for genetic determinations, as well as a measurement of the diluted thrombin time (dTT) and drug plasma concentrations, at the trough and peak. The main objective was the relationship between the dTT values and CES1 rs2244613, CES1 rs8192935 and ABCB1 rs4148738 SNP while on two different dabigatran doses (110 and 150 mg BID). Results: A total of 43 patients were on a 110 mg dabigatran dose and 57 on 150 mg. The DTT values at the trough and at peak were not different among patients with different CES1 rs2244613 and CES1 rs8192935 genotypes, regardless of the dabigatran dose. In patients on 150 mg dabigatran, the dTT values at the trough were 77 (44–111) ng/mL in patients with the ABCB1 rs4148738 heterozygous CT genotype vs. 127 (85–147) ng/mL in the wild-type CC genotype vs. 110 (47–159) ng/mL in the mutant trait TT genotype (p = 0.048). In patients with the ABCB1 rs4148738 CT genotype, OR for having dTT values at a trough below the median was 3.21, 95% CI 1.04–9.88 (p = 0.042). Conclusions: ABCB1 rs4148738 CT heterozygous is associated with the reduced anticoagulant activity of dabigatran at the trough in patients receiving the higher dose regimen.
Electrocardiographic Changes after Endovascular Mechanical Thrombectomy in a Patient with Pulmonary Embolism—A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ley Lukas , Messmer Florian , Vaisnora Lukas , Ghofrani Hossein Ardeschir , Bandorski Dirk , Kostrzewa Michael
Published: April 2024

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common disease with an annual incidence of about 1/1000 persons. About every sixth patient dies within the first 30 days after diagnosis. The electrocardiogram (ECG) is one of the first diagnostic tests performed, and is able to confirm the suspicion of PE with typical electrocardiographic signs. Some ECG signs and their regression are also prognostically relevant. Endovascular mechanical thrombectomy is one option for PE treatment, and aims to relieve right heart strain immediately. The first studies on endovascular mechanical thrombectomy using a dedicated device (FlowTriever System, Inari Medical, Irvine, CA, USA) yielded promising results. Methods: In the following, we report the case of a 66-year-old male patient who presented with New York Heart Association III dyspnea in our emergency department. Among typical clinical and laboratory results, he displayed very impressive electrocardiographic and radiological findings at the time of PE diagnosis. Results: After endovascular mechanical thrombectomy, the patient’s complaints and pulmonary hemodynamics improved remarkably. In contrast, the ECG worsened paradoxically 18 h after intervention. Nevertheless, control echocardiography 4 days after the intervention no longer showed any signs of right heart strain, and dyspnea had disappeared completely. At a 4-month follow-up visit, the patient presented as completely symptom-free with a high quality of life. His ECG and echocardiography were normal and excluded recurrent right heart strain. Conclusions: Overall, the patient benefitted remarkably from endovascular mechanical thrombectomy, resulting in an almost complete resolution of electrocardiographic PE signs at the 4-month follow-up after exhibiting multiple typical electrocardiographic PE signs at time of diagnosis and initial electrocardiographic worsening 18 h post successful intervention.
Regional Spondylodiscitis Disparities: Impact on Pathogen Spectrum and Patients
Authors: Pantel Tobias , Mende Klaus Christian , Stangenberg Martin , Mohme Malte , Mohme Theresa , Floeth Frank , Eicker Sven Oliver , Dreimann Marc
Published: April 2024

Background: Spondylodiscitis is an infectious disease affecting an intervertebral disc and the adjacent vertebral bodies and is often the complication of a distant focus of infection. This study aims to ascertain the regional and hospital-specific disparities in bacterial patterns and resistance profiles in spontaneous and iatrogenic spondylodiscitis and their implications for patient treatment. Methods: We enrolled patients from two German hospitals, specifically comparing a university hospital (UVH) with a peripheral non-university hospital (NUH). We documented patient demographics, laboratory results, and surgical interventions. Microbiological assessments, antibiotic regimens, treatment durations, and resistance profiles were recorded. Results: This study included 135 patients. Upon admission, 92.4% reported pain, with 16.2% also presenting neurological deficits. The primary microbial species identified in both the UVH and NUH cohorts were S. aureus (37.3% vs. 31.3%) and cog. neg. staphylococci (28.8% vs. 34.4%), respectively. Notably, a higher prevalence of resistant bacteria was noted in the UVH group (p < 0.001). Additionally, concomitant malignancies were significantly more prevalent in the UVH cohort. Conclusion: Significant regional variations exist in bacterial prevalence and resistance profiles. Consequently, treatment protocols need to consider these nuances and undergo regular critical evaluation. Moreover, patients with concurrent malignancies face an elevated risk of spondylodiscitis.
Assessment of Effectiveness and Safety of Aspiration-Assisted Nephrostomic Access Sheaths in PCNL and Intrarenal Pressures Evaluation: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Nizzardo Marco , Albo Giancarlo , Ripa Francesco , Zino Ester , De Lorenzis Elisa , Boeri Luca , Longo Fabrizio , Montanari Emanuele , Zanetti Stefano Paolo
Published: April 2024

Background: Different suction-assisted nephrostomic sheaths have been developed for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Objectives: (1) To examine PCNL techniques performed with different aspiration-assisted sheaths (Clear Petra® sheath, Superperc, SuperminiPCNL, and a miniPCNL patented sheath), with specific regard to effectiveness and safety outcomes in adult and paediatric patients; (2) to extrapolate intrarenal pressure (IRP) data during these procedures. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Relevant articles up to 8 February 2024 were included. Results: Twenty-five studies were selected, thirteen retrospective and twelve prospective. The use of four different aspirating sheaths for miniPCNL was reported: Clear Petra® sheath, Superperc, SuperminiPCNL, and a miniPCNL patented sheath. Stone free rates (SFRs) across techniques ranged from 71.3% to 100%, and complication rates from 1.5% to 38.9%. Infectious complication rates varied from 0 to 27.8% and bleeding complication rates from 0 to 8.9%. Most complications were low grade ones. The trend among studies comparing aspiration- and non-aspiration-assisted miniPCNL was towards equivalent or better SFRs and lower overall infectious and bleeding complication rates in suction techniques. Operation time was consistently lower in suction procedures, with a mean shortening of the procedural time of 19 min. Seven studies reported IRP values during suction miniPCNL. Two studies reported satisfactory SFRs and adequate safety profiles in paediatric patient cohorts. Conclusions: MiniPCNL with aspirating sheaths appears to be safe and effective in both adult and paediatric patients. A trend towards a reduction of overall infectious and bleeding complications with respect to non-suction procedures is evident, with comparable or better SFRs and consistently shorter operative times. The IRP profile seems to be safe with the aid of aspirating sheaths. However, high quality evidence on this topic is still lacking.
Separation and Analysis of Connected, Micrometer-Sized, High-Frequency Damage on Glass Plates due to Laser-Accelerated Material Fragments in Vacuum
Authors: Pietzsch Sabrina , Wollny Sebastian , Grimm Paul
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we present a new processing method, called MOSES—Impacts, for the detection of micrometer-sized damage on glass plate surfaces. It extends existing methods by a separation of damaged areas, called impacts, to support state-of-the-art recycling systems in optimizing their parameters. These recycling systems are used to repair process-related damages on glass plate surfaces, caused by accelerated material fragments, which arise during a laser–matter interaction in a vacuum. Due to a high number of impacts, the presented MOSES—Impacts algorithm focuses on the separation of connected impacts in two-dimensional images. This separation is crucial for the extraction of relevant features such as centers of gravity and radii of impacts, which are used as recycling parameters. The results show that the MOSES—Impacts algorithm effectively separates impacts, achieves a mean agreement with human users of (82.0 ± 2.0)%, and improves the recycling of glass plate surfaces by identifying around 7% of glass plate surface area as being not in need of repair compared to existing methods.
An Experimental Procedure to Study the High-Speed Orthogonal Cutting of Unidirectional GFRP
Authors: Panico Martina , Boccarusso Luca , Formisano Antonio , Villani Giuseppe , Langella Antonio
Published: April 2024

The aim of this paper is to establish a valid procedure for better understanding all of the phenomena associated with the high-speed machining of glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) composites. Both rectangular and circular specimens were machined at high cutting speeds (up to 50 m/min) in order to understand what occurred for all values of fiber orientation angles during machining operations. An innovative testing methodology was proposed and studied to investigate the phenomenon of burr formation and thus understand how to avoid it during machining operations. To this end, the forces arising during the machining process and the roughness of the resulting surface were carefully studied and correlated with the cutting angle. Additionally, the cutting surface and chip morphology formed during cutting tests were examined using a high-speed camera. Close correlations were found between the variations in the cutting forces’ signals and the trends of the surface roughness and the morphology of the machined surface.
Pore Pressure Prediction for High-Pressure Tight Sandstone in the Huizhou Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin, China: A Machine Learning-Based Approach
Authors: Feng Jin , Wang Qinghui , Li Min , Li Xiaoyan , Zhou Kaijin , Tian Xin , Niu Jiancheng , Yang Zhiling , Zhang Qingyu , Sun Mengdi
Published: April 2024

A growing number of large data sets have created challenges for the oil and gas industry in predicting reservoir parameters and assessing well productivity through efficient and cost-effective techniques. The design of drilling plans for a high-pressure tight-sand reservoir requires accurate estimations of pore pressure (Pp) and reservoir parameters. The objective of this study is to predict and compare the Pp of Huizhou Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin, China, using conventional techniques and machine learning (ML) algorithms. We investigated the characteristics of low-permeability reservoirs by observing well-logging data sets and cores and examining thin sections under a microscope. In the reservoir zone, the average hydrocarbon saturation is 55%, and the average effective porosity is 11%. The tight sandstone reservoirs consist of fine- to extremely fine-grained argillaceous feldspathic sandstone. The mean absolute error for reservoir property prediction is 1.3%, 2.2%, and 4.8%, respectively, for effective porosity, shale volume, and water saturation. Moreover, the ML algorithm was employed to cross-check the validity of the prediction of Pp. Combining conventional and ML techniques with the core data demonstrates a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.9587, indicating that ML techniques are the most effective in testing well data. This study shows that ML can effectively predict Pp at subsequent depths in adjacent geologically similar locations. Compared to conventional methods, a substantial data set and ML algorithms improve the precision of Pp predictions.
Global Strong Winds Occurrence Characteristics and Climate Index Correlation
Authors: Wu Di , Wang Kaishan , Zheng Chongwei , Guo Yuchen
Published: April 2024

Guided by entering the deep sea and achieving deep marine development in marine construction, the factors hindering marine construction cannot be ignored. Strong ocean winds have a devastating impact on tasks such as ship navigation, carrier aircraft take-off and landing, naval operations and military exercises, and affect the planning of sea routes and the development of the long-distance sea. This paper uses ERA5 wind field data and key climate indices to conduct a systematic analysis of catastrophic winds in the global ocean using methods such as climate statistical analysis, the Theil–Sen trend method, Pearson correlation and contribution rate calculation. It points out the spatiotemporal distribution, variation trend, climate index correlation and contribution rate characteristics of strong winds occurrence (SWO) and hopes that the results of this study can serve as a guide for maritime route planning and provide technical assistance and decision-making support for marine development and other needs. The results show the following: The high global SWO occurs in the Southern Ocean, the North Atlantic, the North Pacific, near Taiwan, China, the Arabian Sea and other locations, with the strongest SWO in summer. The growth trend of SWO in the Southern Ocean is strongest, with decreasing regions near the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, and the growth trend is reflected in all four seasons. The climate indices with the strongest correlation and highest contribution to the global SWO are AAO (Antarctic Oscillation) and EP–NP (East Pacific–North Pacific pattern) with a correlation between −0.5 and 0.5 and a contribution rate of up to −50%~50%.
Rare Earth Elements in Shells of Black Sea Molluscs: Anomalies and Biogeochemical Implications
Authors: Kapranov Sergey V. , Ryabushko Vitaliy I. , Dikareva Juliya D. , Kapranova Larisa L. , Bobko Nikolay I. , Barinova Sophia
Published: April 2024

Rare earth elements (REE) are a class of increasingly used high-tech product components and new emerging environmental pollutants, which are accumulated, in particular, in marine biota. In this study, REE contents were estimated in shells of several molluscs common in the Black Sea. The summed REE contents in mollusc shells decreased in the following order of species: Magallana gigas = Anadara kagoshimensis > Flexopecten glaber ponticus ≥ Rapana venosa > Mytilus galloprovincialis, ranging from 0.46 to 1.9 mg·kg−1. Canonical analysis of principal coordinates allowed for the correct identification of species based on the REE composition in no fewer than 67% of the samples. The mollusc shells were anomalously enriched in Sc, Y, La, Eu and Tb, most likely due to anthropogenic contamination. The Y/Ho ratios in all samples were represented by two fit values: 23.2 (chondritic) and 67.6 (superchondritic, mainly associated with A. kagoshimensis). A new universal relationship linking the contents of three light and heavy REE in Black Sea mollusc shells was proposed: Ce0.3 Er0.7/Yb = 2.00 ± 0.46 (mean ± standard deviation).
Assessing Maternal Satisfaction: Patient-Centered Care, Hospital Environment, and Information-Seeking in Chanika Hospital in Tanzania
Authors: Jang Sarang , Lee Sangmi , Sohn Aeree
Published: April 2024

This study examined the impact of patient-centered care, satisfaction with the hospital environment, and maternal information-seeking on maternal healthcare satisfaction in Tanzania. A total of 707 mothers who delivered at Chanika Hospital in Tanzania were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to identify factors related to maternal satisfaction. Only 9.9% of the participants reported that they “usually” or “always” felt involved in treatment decisions. High levels of satisfaction were found for hospital cleanliness (93.6%) and safety (94.9%). However, there was a significant gap in satisfaction regarding the adequacy of water quality for medical services, with only 8.1% expressing satisfaction. Limited use of digital platforms was observed in terms of information-seeking behavior for fetal development, with only 19.5% of the participants using the internet and 14.3% using mobile apps. Patient-centered experiences with healthcare providers, especially midwives, had a significant positive impact on maternal satisfaction (β = 0.11, p = 0.021). Other significant variables were satisfaction with the hospital environment (β = 0.25, p < 0.001) and satisfaction with hospital water (β = 0.13, p < 0.001). It is recommended that healthcare improvements focus on patient-centered experiences and water quality for drinking and medical services to improve patient satisfaction.
Delayed Orbital Floor Reconstruction Using Mirroring Technique and Patient-Specific Implants: Proof of Concept
Authors: D’Alpaos Diana , Badiali Giovanni , Ceccariglia Francesco , Tarsitano Achille
Published: April 2024

Enophthalmos is a severe complication of primary reconstruction following orbital floor fractures, oncological resections, or maxillo-facial syndromes. The goal of secondary orbital reconstruction is to regain a symmetrical globe position to restore function and aesthetics. In this article, we present a method of computer-assisted orbital floor reconstruction using a mirroring technique and a custom-made titanium or high-density polyethylene mesh printed using computer-aided manufacturing techniques. This reconstructive protocol involves four steps: mirroring of the healthy orbit computer tomography files at the contralateral affected site, virtual design of a customized implant, computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM) of the implant using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) or Computer Numerical Control (CNC) methods, and surgical insertion of the device. Clinical outcomes were assessed using 3dMD photogrammetry and computed tomography measures in 13 treated patients and compared to a control group treated with stock implants. An improvement of 3.04 mm (range 0.3–6 mm) in globe protrusion was obtained for the patients treated with patient-specific implants (PSI), and no major complications have been registered. The technique described here appears to be a viable method for correcting complex orbital floor defects needing delayed reconstruction.
The Linkage between Corporate Research and Development Intensity and Stock Returns: Empirical Evidence
Authors: Ghazal Sameena , Aziz Tariq , Tabash Mosab I. , Drachal Krzysztof
Published: April 2024

Research and development (R&D) is a significant driver of innovation that leads to superior performance. The present study attempts to examine the relationship between R&D intensity and a firm’s performance at both aggregate and industry levels in the emerging market of India using a battery of R&D intensity measures and stock market returns as a measure of a firm’s performance. The study was conducted on 1097 companies from six R&D-intensive industries. The Fama-French portfolio formation method was used to evaluate the stock market performance of R&D-intensive firms for both equal-weighted (EW) and value-weighted (VW) returns. The findings suggest that R&D intensity and stock returns show a positive relationship. A long–short strategy in R&D-intense firms has yielded 1.43% (t = 4.22) per month in the sample. In general, the results suggest an undervaluation of highly R&D-intensive firms that investors can exploit for above-average returns. The effect is not homogeneous across return schemes (equal-weighted and value-weighted) or across industries. R&D growth measures and R&D capital are not found to have significant impacts on stock returns. Both the market firm size and age are included as control variables, and the results reveal that the relationship is robust to these control variables. The sub-periods ranging from 2000 to 2007 and 2008 to 2019 have been considered in the present study and the results are consistent with the overall sample. The study fills the existing empirical void for R&D intensity and stock returns in relation to the emerging market of India.
Utility of Fasting C-Peptide for the Diagnostic Differentiation of Patients with Type 1, Type 2 Diabetes, MODY, and LADA
Authors: Alemán-Contreras Ricardo , Gómez-Díaz Rita A. , Noyola-García Maura E. , Mondragón-González Rafael , Wacher Niels , Ferreira-Hermosillo Aldo
Published: April 2024

Background: The prevalence of obesity has increased in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and latent autoimmune diabetes of the adult (LADA), limiting the use of clinical features such as the body mass index for its differentiation with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Additionally, some patients with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) or LADA are misdiagnosed as having T2D. The evaluation of autoantibodies and genetic testing are not fully available. We aimed to evaluate the utility of a widely available and less expensive diagnostic tool such as C-peptide to differentiate between T1D, T2D, MODY, and LADA. Methods: Our study included 38 patients with T1D, 49 with T2D, 13 with MODY, and 61 with LADA. We recorded anthropometric measurements, biochemical profiles, and antidiabetic treatment and determined C-peptide, anti-GAD65, and anti-IA2 antibodies. Results: C-peptide concentration differed significantly among populations (T1D: 0.2 ng/mL; T2D: 2.4 ng/mL; MODY: 1.14 ng/mL; LADA: 1.87 ng/mL). Through a ROC curve, we observed that the C-peptide cut-off point of 0.95 ng/mL allows differentiation between T1D and T2D (sensitivity 82%, specificity 77%); 0.82 ng/mL between T1D and LADA (sensitivity 82%, specificity 77%); and 1.65 ng/mL between T2D and MODY (sensitivity 72%, specificity 72%). Conclusions: C-peptide is useful for the diagnostic differentiation of patients with type 1, type 2 diabetes, MODY, and LADA.
Serum Concentrations of TIM-3, LAG-3, and PD-1 in Patients with Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
Authors: Mačak Šafranko Željka , Jakopec Lana , Svaguša Karla , Cvetko Krajinović Lidija , Tomasović Domagoj , Lukić ǈiljana , Markotić Alemka
Published: April 2024

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a rodent-borne disease widespread in Europe and Asia. HFRS is caused by negative-sensed single-stranded RNA orthohantaviruses transmitted to humans through inhaling aerosolized excreta of infected rodents. Symptoms of HFRS include acute kidney injury, thrombocytopenia, hemorrhages, and hypotension. The immune response raised against viral antigens plays an important role in the pathogenesis of HFRS. Inhibitory co-receptors are essential in regulating immune responses, mitigating immunopathogenesis, and reducing tissue damage. Our research showed an increased soluble form of inhibitory co-receptors TIM-3, LAG-3, and PD-1 in HFRS patients associated with disease severity. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of HFRS on the concentrations of soluble forms of inhibitory receptors TIM-3, LAG-3, and PD-1 in the patient’s serum and the potential correlation with key clinical parameters. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of HFRS on the concentrations of soluble forms of inhibitory receptors TIM-3, LAG-3, and PD-1 in the patient’s serum and their possible association with relevant clinical parameters. Using multiplex immunoassay, we found elevated levels of TIM-3, LAG-3, and PD-1 proteins in the serum of HFRS patients. Furthermore, increased levels were associated with creatinine, urea, lactate dehydrogenase concentrations, and platelet count. These findings suggest that these proteins play a role in regulating the immune response and disease progression.
Deciphering the Systemic Impact of Herbal Medicines on Allergic Rhinitis: A Network Pharmacological Approach
Authors: Park Sa-Yoon , Lee Yoon Yeol , Kim Min Hee , Kim Chang-Eop
Published: April 2024

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a systemic allergic disease that has a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life. Current treatments include antihistamines and nasal steroids; however, their long-term use often causes undesirable side effects. In this context, traditional Asian medicine (TAM), with its multi-compound, multi-target herbal medicines (medicinal plants), offers a promising alternative. However, the complexity of these multi-compound traits poses challenges in understanding the overall mechanisms and efficacy of herbal medicines. Here, we demonstrate the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of these multi-compound herbal medicines specifically used for AR at a systemic level. We utilized a modified term frequency–inverse document frequency method to select AR-specific herbs and constructed an herb–compound–target network using reliable databases and computational methods, such as the Quantitative Estimate of Drug-likeness for compound filtering, STITCH database for compound-target interaction prediction (with a high confidence score threshold of 0.7), and DisGeNET and CTD databases for disease-gene association analysis. Through this network, we conducted AR-related targets and pathway analyses, as well as clustering analysis based on target-level information of the herbs. Gene ontology enrichment analysis was conducted using a protein–protein interaction network. Our research identified 14 AR-specific herbs and analyzed whether AR-specific herbs are highly related to previously known AR-related genes and pathways. AR-specific herbs were found to target several genes related to inflammation and AR pathogenesis, such as PTGS2, HRH1, and TBXA2R. Pathway analysis revealed that AR-specific herbs were associated with multiple AR-related pathways, including cytokine signaling, immune response, and allergic inflammation. Additionally, clustering analysis based on target similarity identified three distinct subgroups of AR-specific herbs, corroborated by a protein–protein interaction network. Group 1 herbs were associated with the regulation of inflammatory responses to antigenic stimuli, while Group 2 herbs were related to the detection of chemical stimuli involved in the sensory perception of bitter taste. Group 3 herbs were distinctly associated with antigen processing and presentation and NIK/NF-kappa B signaling. This study decodes the principles of TAM herbal configurations for AR using a network pharmacological approach, providing a holistic understanding of drug effects beyond specific pathways.
L-Arginine-Dependent Nitric Oxide Production in the Blood of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot, Five-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Stoian Irina , Iosif Liviu , Gilca Marilena , Vlad Adelina , Tivig Ioan , Bradescu Ovidiu Marius , Savu Octavian
Published: April 2024

Backgound: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major cardiovascular risk factor. Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the many molecules that regulate vascular tone, and red blood cells (RBCs) are known to play an important role in adjusting cardiac function through NO export from RBCs. Our study prospectively investigated the L-arginine (L-arg)–nitric oxide (NO) metabolic pathway in the erythrocytes and plasma of subjects with T2DM. Methods: RBCs and plasma were collected from patients with T2DM (n = 10), at first clinical onset (baseline) and after five years of disease evolution (follow-up). L-arg content was assayed by competitive enzyme-linked immunoassay. Arginase activity and nitrate/nitrite levels were measured using spectrophotometry. Results: When compared to baseline, L-arg content decreased in RBCs and remained similar in the plasma; NO production decreased in RBCs and the plasma; and arginase activity was lower in RBCs and increased in plasma. Conclusions: The L-arg/NO metabolic pathway decreases in the RBCs of patients with T2DM five years after the first clinical onset. The persistent decrease in RBCs’ arginase activity fails to compensate for the sustained decrease in RBCs’ NO production in the diabetic environment. This pilot study indicates that the NO-RBC pool is depleted during the progression of the disease in the same cohort of T2DM patients.
An Investigation of the Anisotropic Mechanical Properties of Additive-Manufactured 316L SS with SLM
Authors: Wang Haibo , Jiang Peng , Yang Guangyong , Yan Yu
Published: April 2024

Selective laser melting (SLM) forms specimens that often exhibit anisotropic mechanical properties. Most existing research only explains that the mechanical properties of specimens perpendicular to the build direction are superior to those parallel to the build direction. In this paper, the mechanical properties of SLM 316L SS specimens with different surfaces and different directions are compared. Finally, it was found that the mechanical properties of specimens on Face 3 are stronger than those on Face 1 and Face 2, while the mechanical properties of specimens on Face 1 and Face 2 are similar. For specimens in different directions on the same surface, the mechanical properties of Face 1 and Face 2 exhibit clear anisotropy, while the mechanical properties of Face 3 tend to be isotropic. In this paper, the EBSD technique was used to analyze the specimens. It was found that the anisotropy of the mechanical properties of Face 1 and Face 2 are attributed to the presence of texture and columnar crystals in the sample. This paper can provide accurate and reliable material performance data for the practical application of SLM 316L SS, thereby guiding the optimization of engineering design and manufacturing processes.
Polydopamine-Coated Copper-Doped Co3O4 Nanosheets Rich in Oxygen Vacancy on Titanium and Multimodal Synergistic Antibacterial Study
Authors: Qi Jinteng , Yu Miao , Liu Yi , Zhang Junting , Li Xinyi , Ma Zhuo , Sun Tiedong , Liu Shaoqin , Qiu Yunfeng
Published: April 2024

Medical titanium-based (Ti-based) implants in the human body are prone to infection by pathogenic bacteria, leading to implantation failure. Constructing antibacterial nanocoatings on Ti-based implants is one of the most effective strategies to solve bacterial contamination. However, single antibacterial function was not sufficient to efficiently kill bacteria, and it is necessary to develop multifunctional antibacterial methods. This study modifies medical Ti foils with Cu-doped Co3O4 rich in oxygen vacancies, and improves their biocompatibility by polydopamine (PDA/Cu-Ov-Co3O4). Under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, nanocoatings can generate •OH and 1O2 due to Cu+ Fenton-like activity and a photodynamic effect of Cu-Ov-Co3O4, and the total reactive oxygen species (ROS) content inside bacteria significantly increases, causing oxidative stress of bacteria. Further experiments prove that the photothermal process enhances the bacterial membrane permeability, allowing the invasion of ROS and metal ions, as well as the protein leakage. Moreover, PDA/Cu-Ov-Co3O4 can downregulate ATP levels and further reduce bacterial metabolic activity after irradiation. This coating exhibits sterilization ability against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with an antibacterial rate of ca. 100%, significantly higher than that of bare medical Ti foils (ca. 0%). Therefore, multifunctional synergistic antibacterial nanocoating will be a promising strategy for preventing bacterial contamination on medical Ti-based implants.
Hygrothermal Properties and Performance of Bio-Based Insulation Materials Locally Sourced in Sweden
Authors: Ranefjärd Oskar , Strandberg-de Bruijn Paulien B. , Wadsö Lars
Published: April 2024

In recent years, there has been a paradigm shift in the building sector towards more sustainable, resource efficient, and renewable materials. Bio-based insulation derived from renewable resources, such as plant or animal fibres, is one promising group of such materials. Compared to mineral wool and polystyrene-based insulation materials, these bio-based insulation materials generally have a slightly higher thermal conductivity, and they are significantly more hygroscopic, two factors that need to be considered when using these bio-based insulation materials. This study assesses the hygrothermal properties of three bio-based insulation materials: eelgrass, grass, and wood fibre. All three have the potential to be locally sourced in Sweden. Mineral wool (stone wool) was used as a reference material. Hygrothermal material properties were measured with dynamic vapour sorption (DVS), transient plane source (TPS), and sorption calorimetry. Moisture buffering of the insulation materials was assessed, and their thermal insulation capacity was tested on a building component level in a hot box that exposed the materials to a steady-state climate, simulating in-use conditions in, e.g., an external wall. The tested bio-based insulation materials have significantly different sorption properties to stone wool and have higher thermal conductivity than what the manufacturers declared. The hot-box experiments showed that the insulating capacity of the bio-based insulators cannot be reliably calculated from the measured thermal conductivity alone. The results of this study could be used as input data for numerical simulations and analyses of the thermal and hygroscopic behaviour of these bio-based insulation materials.
Influence of Zr Microalloying on the Microstructure and Room-/High-Temperature Mechanical Properties of an Al–Cu–Mn–Fe Alloy
Authors: Liu Jingbin , Hu Jingyi , Li Mengyu , Liu Guiliang , Wu Yuying , Gao Tong , Liu Shushuai , Liu Xiangfa
Published: April 2024

Here, 0.3 wt.%Zr was introduced in an Al-4 wt.%Cu-0.5 wt.%Mn-0.1 wt.%Fe alloy to investigate its influence on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloy. The microstructures of both as-cast and T6-treated Al–Cu–Mn–Fe (ACMF) and Al–Cu–Mn–Fe–Zr (ACMFZ) alloys were analyzed. The intermetallic compounds formed through the casting procedure include Al2Cu and Al7Cu2Fe, and the Al2Cu phase dissolves into the matrix and re-precipitates as θ′ phase during the T6 process. The introduction of Zr results in the precipitation of L12-Al3Zr nanometric precipitates after T6, while the θ′ precipitates in ACMFZ alloy are much finer than those in ACMF alloy. The L12-Al3Zr precipitates were found coherently located with θ′, which was assumed beneficial for stabilizing the θ′ precipitates during the high-temperature tensile process. The tensile properties of ACMF and ACMFZ alloys at room temperature and elevated temperatures (200, 300, and 400 °C) were tested. Especially, the yield strength of ACMFZ alloys can reach 128 MPa and 65 MPa at 300 °C and 400 °C, respectively, which are 31% and 33% higher than those of ACMF alloys. The strengthening mechanisms of grain size, L12-Al3Zr, and θ′ precipitates on the tensile properties were discussed. This work may be referred to for designing Al–Cu alloys for application in high-temperature fields.
Study of Anisotropic Behavior in Sheet Metal Forming
Authors: Wang Haibo , Niu Qiang , Yan Yu
Published: April 2024

Since sheet metal exhibits significant anisotropy in processing and forming, which has a significant impact on its performance during processing, forming, and use, we explore the anisotropic behavior of materials in the forming process of sheet metal. The ability of the Yld2000-2d criterion to describe anisotropic behavior is analyzed, and its accuracy for characterization of the anisotropic behavior of metal plates is improved, based on which anisotropic behavior is predicted in three-dimensional space. Theoretical and experimental results on the anisotropy of sheet metal are compared, and two materials, 5754O aluminum alloy and DP980 steel plate, are tested and analyzed, and the anisotropic behaviors, such as three-point bending and cylindrical deep-drawing, are well predicted.
Colloid Mill-Assisted Ultrasonic-Fractional Centrifugal Purification of Low-Grade Attapulgite and Its Modification for Adsorption of Congo Red
Authors: Wang Xingpeng , Jiang Chao , Li Huiyu , Tian Weiliang , Ahmed Saeed , Feng Yongjun
Published: April 2024

Attapulgite (APT) is widely used in wastewater treatment due to its exceptional adsorption and colloidal properties, as well as its cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness. However, low-grade APT generally limits its performance. Here, a colloid mill-assisted ultrasonic-fractional centrifugal purification method was developed to refine low-grade APT. This process successfully separated and removed impurity minerals such as quartz and dolomite from the raw ore, resulting in a refined APT purity increase from 16.9% to 60% with a specific surface area of 135.5 m2∙g−1. Further modifying of the refined APT was carried out through the hydrothermal method using varying dosages of cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), resulting in the production of four different APT adsorbents denoted as QAPT-n (n = CTAC mole number) ranging from 0.5 to 5 mmol. Using Congo red (CR) as the target pollutant, the QAPT-5 sample exhibited the best adsorption capacity with the maximum quantity of 1652.2 mg∙g−1 in a neutral solution at 30 °C due to the highest surface charge (zeta potential = 8.25 mV). Moreover, the QAPT-5 pellets (~2.0 g adsorbent) shaped by the alginate-assisted molding method removed more than 96% of 200 mL aqueous solution containing 200 mg∙L−1 CR and maintained this efficiency in 10 adsorption–elution cycles, which exhibited the promising practical application.