bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pushing the Resolution Limit of Stimulated Emission Depletion Optical Nanoscopy
Authors: Jeong Sejoo , Koh Dongbin , Gwak Eunha , Srambickal Chinmaya V. , Seo Daeha , Widengren Jerker , Lee Jong-Chan
Published: December 2023

Optical nanoscopy, also known as super-resolution optical microscopy, has provided scientists with the means to surpass the diffraction limit of light microscopy and attain new insights into nanoscopic structures and processes that were previously inaccessible. In recent decades, numerous studies have endeavored to enhance super-resolution microscopy in terms of its spatial (lateral) resolution, axial resolution, and temporal resolution. In this review, we discuss recent efforts to push the resolution limit of stimulated emission depletion (STED) optical nanoscopy across multiple dimensions, including lateral resolution, axial resolution, temporal resolution, and labeling precision. We introduce promising techniques and methodologies building on the STED concept that have emerged in the field, such as MINSTED, isotropic STED, and event-triggered STED, and evaluate their respective strengths and limitations. Moreover, we discuss trade-off relationships that exist in far-field optical microscopy and how they come about in STED optical nanoscopy. By examining the latest developments addressing these aspects, we aim to provide an updated overview of the current state of STED nanoscopy and its potential for future research.
Ethyl Acetate Fractions of Tectona Grandis Crude Extract Modulate Glucose Absorption and Uptake as Well as Antihyperglycemic Potential in Fructose–Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Sanni Olakunle , Nkomozepi Pilani , Islam Md. Shahidul
Published: December 2023

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a global health challenge with increased morbidity and mortality rates yearly. Herbal medicine has provided an alternative approach to treating T2D with limited access to formal healthcare. Tectona grandis is being used traditionally in the treatment of diabetes. The present study investigated the antidiabetic potential of T. grandis leaves in different solvent extractions, and the crude extract that demonstrated the best activity was further fractionated through solvent–solvent partitioning. The ethyl acetate fraction of the ethanol crude extract showed the best antidiabetic activity in inhibiting α-glucosidase, delaying glucose absorption at the small intestine’s lumen, and enhancing the muscle’s postprandial glucose uptake. The ethyl acetate fraction was further elucidated for its ability to reduce hyperglycemia in diabetic rats. The ethyl acetate fraction significantly reduced high blood glucose levels in diabetic rats with concomitant modulation in stimulated insulin secretions through improved pancreatic β-cell function, insulin sensitivity by increasing liver glycogen content, and reduced elevated levels of liver glucose-6-phosphatase activity. These activities could be attributed to the phytochemical constituents of the plant.
Chitosan-Based Dressing as a Sustained Delivery System for Bioactive Cytokines
Authors: Lewicki Sławomir , Zwoliński Michał , Hovagimyan Adrian , Stelmasiak Marta , Szarpak Łukasz , Lewicka Aneta , Pojda Zygmunt , Szymański Łukasz
Published: December 2023

Wounds represent a common occurrence in human life. Consequently, scientific investigations are underway to advance wound healing methodologies, with a notable focus on dressings imbued with biologically active compounds capable of orchestrating the wound microenvironment through meticulously regulated release mechanisms. Among these bioactive agents are cytokines, which, when administered to the wound milieu without appropriate protection, undergo rapid loss of their functional attributes. Within the context of this research, we present a method for fabricating dressings enriched with G-CSF (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) or GM-CSF (granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor), showcasing both biological activity and protracted release dynamics. Based on Ligasano, a commercial polyurethane foam dressing, and chitosan crosslinked with TPP (sodium tripolyphosphate), these dressings are noncytotoxic and enable cytokine incorporation. The recovery of cytokines from dressings varied based on the dressing preparation and storage techniques (without modification, drying, freeze-drying followed by storage at 4 °C or freeze-drying followed by storage at 24 °C) and cytokine type. Generally, drying reduced cytokine levels and their bioactivity, especially with G-CSF. The recovery of G-CSF from unmodified dressings was lower compared to GM-CSF (60% vs. 80%). In summary, our freeze-drying approach enables the storage of G-CSF or GM-CSF enriched dressings at 24 °C with minimal cytokine loss, preserving their biological activity and thus enhancing future clinical availability.
Clinical and Genetic Features of Dravet Syndrome: A Prime Example of the Role of Precision Medicine in Genetic Epilepsy
Authors: Fan Hueng-Chuen , Yang Ming-Tao , Lin Lung-Chang , Chiang Kuo-Liang , Chen Chuan-Mu
Published: December 2023

Dravet syndrome (DS), also known as severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy, is a rare and drug-resistant form of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, which is both debilitating and challenging to manage, typically arising during the first year of life, with seizures often triggered by fever, infections, or vaccinations. It is characterized by frequent and prolonged seizures, developmental delays, and various other neurological and behavioral impairments. Most cases result from pathogenic mutations in the sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit 1 (SCN1A) gene, which encodes a critical voltage-gated sodium channel subunit involved in neuronal excitability. Precision medicine offers significant potential for improving DS diagnosis and treatment. Early genetic testing enables timely and accurate diagnosis. Advances in our understanding of DS’s underlying genetic mechanisms and neurobiology have enabled the development of targeted therapies, such as gene therapy, offering more effective and less invasive treatment options for patients with DS. Targeted and gene therapies provide hope for more effective and personalized treatments. However, research into novel approaches remains in its early stages, and their clinical application remains to be seen. This review addresses the current understanding of clinical DS features, genetic involvement in DS development, and outcomes of novel DS therapies.
Establishment of the Myeloid TBX-Code Reveals Aberrant Expression of T-Box Gene TBX1 in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Nagel Stefan , Haake Josephine , Pommerenke Claudia , Meyer Corinna , MacLeod Roderick A. F.
Published: December 2023

T-box genes encode transcription factors, which control developmental processes and promote cancer if deregulated. Recently, we described the lymphoid TBX-code, which collates T-box gene activities in normal lymphopoiesis, enabling identification of members deregulated in lymphoid malignancies. Here, we have extended this analysis to cover myelopoiesis, compiling the myeloid TBX-code and, thus, highlighting which of these genes might be deregulated in myeloid tumor types. We analyzed public T-box gene expression datasets bioinformatically for normal and malignant cells. Candidate T-box-gene-expressing model cell lines were identified and examined by RQ-PCR, Western Blotting, genomic profiling, and siRNA-mediated knockdown combined with RNA-seq analysis and live-cell imaging. The established myeloid TBX-code comprised 10 T-box genes, including progenitor-cell-restricted TBX1. Accordingly, we detected aberrant expression of TBX1 in 10% of stem/progenitor-cell-derived chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients. The classic CML cell line K-562 expressed TBX1 at high levels and served as a model to identify TBX1 activators, including transcription factor GATA1 and genomic amplification of the TBX1 locus at 22q11; inhibitors, including BCR::ABL1 fusion and downregulated GNAI2, as well as BMP, FGF2, and WNT signaling; and the target genes CDKN1A, MIR17HG, NAV1, and TMEM38A. The establishment of the myeloid TBX-code permitted identification of aberrant TBX1 expression in subsets of CML patients and cell lines. TBX1 forms an integral part of an oncogenic regulatory network impacting proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Thus, the data spotlight novel diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic targets for this malignancy.
Overview of Gene Expression Dynamics during Human Oogenesis/Folliculogenesis
Authors: Ducreux Bastien , Ferreux Lucile , Patrat Catherine , Fauque Patricia
Published: December 2023

The oocyte transcriptome follows a tightly controlled dynamic that leads the oocyte to grow and mature. This succession of distinct transcriptional states determines embryonic development prior to embryonic genome activation. However, these oocyte maternal mRNA regulatory events have yet to be decoded in humans. We reanalyzed human single-oocyte RNA-seq datasets previously published in the literature to decrypt the transcriptomic reshuffles ensuring that the oocyte is fully competent. We applied trajectory analysis (pseudotime) and a meta-analysis and uncovered the fundamental transcriptomic requirements of the oocyte at any moment of oogenesis until reaching the metaphase II stage (MII). We identified a bunch of genes showing significant variation in expression from primordial-to-antral follicle oocyte development and characterized their temporal regulation and their biological relevance. We also revealed the selective regulation of specific transcripts during the germinal vesicle-to-MII transition. Transcripts associated with energy production and mitochondrial functions were extensively downregulated, while those associated with cytoplasmic translation, histone modification, meiotic processes, and RNA processes were conserved. From the genes identified in this study, some appeared as sensitive to environmental factors such as maternal age, polycystic ovary syndrome, cryoconservation, and in vitro maturation. In the future, the atlas of transcriptomic changes described in this study will enable more precise identification of the transcripts responsible for follicular growth and oocyte maturation failures.
Modulating NO–GC Pathway in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: D’Agostino Anna , Lanzafame Lorena Gioia , Buono Lorena , Crisci Giulia , D’Assante Roberta , Leone Ilaria , De Vito Luigi , Bossone Eduardo , Cittadini Antonio , Marra Alberto Maria
Published: December 2023

The pathogenesis of complex diseases such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is entirely rooted in changes in the expression of some vasoactive factors. These play a significant role in the onset and progression of the disease. Indeed, PAH has been associated with pathophysiologic alterations in vascular function. These are often dictated by increased oxidative stress and impaired modulation of the nitric oxide (NO) pathway. NO reduces the uncontrolled proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells that leads to occlusion of vessels and an increase in pulmonary vascular resistances, which is the mainstay of PAH development. To date, two classes of NO-pathway modulating drugs are approved for the treatment of PAH: the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PD5i), sildenafil and tadalafil, and the soluble guanylate cyclase activator (sGC), riociguat. Both drugs provide considerable improvement in exercise capacity and pulmonary hemodynamics. PD5i are the recommended drugs for first-line PAH treatment, whereas sGCs are also the only drug approved for the treatment of resistant or inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. In this review, we will focus on the current information regarding the nitric oxide pathway and its modulation in PAH.
Bovine Serum Albumin as a Platform for Designing Biologically Active Nanocarriers—Experimental and Computational Studies
Authors: Adamczyk Olga , Szota Magdalena , Rakowski Kamil , Prochownik Magdalena , Doveiko Daniel , Chen Yu , Jachimska Barbara
Published: December 2023

Due to the specificity of their structure, protein systems are adapted to carry various ligands. The structure of many proteins potentially allows for two types of immobilization of a therapeutic agent, either on the outer surface of the protein or within the protein structure. The existence of two active sites in BSA’s structure, the so-called Sudlow I and II, was confirmed. The conducted research involved determining the effectiveness of BSA as a potential carrier of 5-fluorouracil (5FU). 5-fluorouracil is a broad-spectrum anticancer drug targeting solid tumors. The research was carried out to estimate the physicochemical properties of the system using complementary measurement techniques. The optimization of the complex formation conditions made it possible to obtain significant correlations between the form of the drug and the effective localization of the active substance in the structure of the protein molecule. The presence of two amino groups in the 5FU structure contributes to the deprotonation of the molecule at high pH values (pH > 8) and the transition to the anionic form (AN1 and AN3). To investigate the binding affinity of the tautomeric form with BSA, UV-vis absorption, fluorescence quenching, zeta potential, QCM-D, and CD spectroscopic studies were performed. The experimental research was supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and molecular docking. The simulations confirm the potential location of 5FU tautomers inside the BSA structure and on its surface.
Crosstalk between G-Quadruplexes and Dnmt3a-Mediated Methylation of the c-MYC Oncogene Promoter
Authors: Sergeev Alexander V. , Loiko Andrei G. , Genatullina Adelya I. , Petrov Alexander S. , Kubareva Elena A. , Dolinnaya Nina G. , Gromova Elizaveta S.
Published: December 2023

The methylation of cytosines at CpG sites in DNA, carried out de novo by DNA methyltransferase Dnmt3a, is a basic epigenetic modification involved in gene regulation and genome stability. Aberrant CpG methylation in gene promoters leads to oncogenesis. In oncogene promoters, CpG sites often colocalize with guanine-rich sequences capable of folding into G-quadruplexes (G4s). Our in vitro study aimed to investigate how parallel G4s formed by a sequence derived from the c-MYC oncogene promoter region affect the activity of the Dnmt3a catalytic domain (Dnmt3a-CD). For this purpose, we designed synthetic oligonucleotide constructs: a c-MYC G4-forming oligonucleotide and linear double-stranded DNA containing an embedded stable extrahelical c-MYC G4. The topology and thermal stability of G4 structures in these DNA models were analyzed using physicochemical techniques. We showed that Dnmt3a-CD specifically binds to an oligonucleotide containing c-MYC G4, resulting in inhibition of its methylation activity. c-MYC G4 formation in a double-stranded context significantly reduces Dnmt3a-CD-induced methylation of a CpG site located in close proximity to the quadruplex structure; this effect depends on the distance between the non-canonical structure and the specific CpG site. One would expect DNA hypomethylation near the G4 structure, while regions distant from this non-canonical form would maintain a regular pattern of high methylation levels. We hypothesize that the G4 structure sequesters the Dnmt3a-CD and impedes its proper binding to B-DNA, resulting in hypomethylation and activation of c-MYC transcription.
The Effects of Intermittent Cold Exposure on Adipose Tissue
Authors: Scott Matthew C. , Fuller Scott
Published: December 2023

Intermittent cold exposure (ICE) has garnered increased attention in popular culture, largely for its proposed effects on mood and immune function, but there are also suggestions that the energy-wasting mechanisms associated with thermogenesis may decrease body weight and fat mass. Considering the continued and worsening prevalence of obesity and type II diabetes, any protocol that can reduce body weight and/or improve metabolic health would be a substantial boon. Here, we present a narrative review exploring the research related to ICE and adipose tissue. Any publicly available original research examining the effects of repeated bouts of ICE on adipose-related outcomes was included. While ICE does not consistently lower body weight or fat mass, there does seem to be evidence for ICE as a positive modulator of the metabolic consequences of obesity, such as glucose tolerance and insulin signaling. Further, ICE consistently increases the activity of brown adipose tissue (BAT) and transitions white adipose tissue to a phenotype more in line with BAT. Lastly, the combined effects of ICE and exercise do not seem to provide any additional benefit, at least when exercising during ICE bouts. The majority of the current literature on ICE is based on rodent models where animals are housed in cold rooms, which does not reflect protocols likely to be implemented in humans such as cold water immersion. Future research could specifically characterize ICE via cold water immersion in combination with controlled calorie intake to clearly determine the effects of ICE as it would be implemented in humans looking to lower their body weight via reductions in fat mass.
To Gain Insights into the Pathophysiological Mechanisms of the Thrombo-Inflammatory Process in the Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: Nappi Francesco
Published: December 2023

Thromboinflammation, the interplay between thrombosis and inflammation, is a significant pathway that drives cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases, as well as COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 causes inflammation and blood clotting issues. Innate immune cells have emerged as key modulators of this process. Neutrophils, the most predominant white blood cells in humans, are strategically positioned to promote thromboinflammation. By releasing decondensed chromatin structures called neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), neutrophils can initiate an organised cell death pathway. These structures are adorned with histones, cytoplasmic and granular proteins, and have cytotoxic, immunogenic, and prothrombotic effects that can hasten disease progression. Protein arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) catalyses the citrullination of histones and is involved in the release of extracellular DNA (NETosis). The neutrophil inflammasome is also required for this process. Understanding the link between the immunological function of neutrophils and the procoagulant and proinflammatory activities of monocytes and platelets is important in understanding thromboinflammation. This text discusses how vascular blockages occur in thromboinflammation due to the interaction between neutrophil extracellular traps and ultra-large VWF (von Willebrand Factor). The activity of PAD4 is important for understanding the processes that drive thromboinflammation by linking the immunological function of neutrophils with the procoagulant and proinflammatory activities of monocytes and platelets. This article reviews how vaso-occlusive events in thrombo-inflammation occur through the interaction of neutrophil extracellular traps with von Willebrand factor. It highlights the relevance of PAD4 in neutrophil inflammasome assembly and neutrophil extracellular traps in thrombo-inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Interaction between platelets, VWF, NETs and inflammasomes is critical for the progression of thromboinflammation in several diseases and was recently shown to be active in COVID-19.
The Role of Gut and Oral Microbiota in the Formation and Rupture of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Literature Review
Authors: Joerger Ann-Kathrin , Albrecht Carolin , Rothhammer Veit , Neuhaus Klaus , Wagner Arthur , Meyer Bernhard , Wostrack Maria
Published: December 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the role of the microbiome in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Emerging research highlights the potential role of the microbiome in intracranial aneurysm (IA) formation and rupture, particularly in relation to inflammation. In this review, we aim to explore the existing literature regarding the influence of the gut and oral microbiome on IA formation and rupture. In the first section, we provide background information, elucidating the connection between inflammation and aneurysm formation and presenting potential mechanisms of gut–brain interaction. Additionally, we explain the methods for microbiome analysis. The second section reviews existing studies that investigate the relationship between the gut and oral microbiome and IAs. We conclude with a prospective overview, highlighting the extent to which the microbiome is already therapeutically utilized in other fields. Furthermore, we address the challenges associated with the context of IAs that still need to be overcome.
Targeting Signalling Pathways in Chronic Wound Healing
Authors: Bonnici Lian , Suleiman Sherif , Schembri-Wismayer Pierre , Cassar Analisse
Published: December 2023

Chronic wounds fail to achieve complete closure and are an economic burden to healthcare systems due to the limited treatment options and constant medical attention. Chronic wounds are characterised by dysregulated signalling pathways. Research has focused on naturally derived compounds, stem-cell-based therapy, small molecule drugs, oligonucleotide delivery nanoparticles, exosomes and peptide-based platforms. The phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), Wingless-related integration (Wnt)/β-catenin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), Notch and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) signalling pathways have critical roles in wound healing by modulating the inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases. Moreover, several regulators of the signalling pathways were demonstrated to be potential treatment targets. In this review, the current research on targeting signalling pathways under chronic wound conditions will be discussed together with implications for future studies.
3′dNTP Binding Is Modulated during Primer Synthesis and Translesion by Human PrimPol
Authors: Velázquez-Ruiz Cristina , Blanco Luis , Martínez-Jiménez María Isabel
Published: December 2023

PrimPol is a DNA primase/polymerase from the Archaeo-Eukaryotic Primase (AEP) superfamily that enables the progression of stalled replication forks by synthesizing DNA primers ahead of blocking lesions or abnormal structures in the ssDNA template. PrimPol’s active site is formed by three AEP-conserved motifs: A, B and C. Motifs A and C of human PrimPol (HsPrimPol) harbor the catalytic residues (Asp114, Glu116, Asp280) acting as metal ligands, whereas motif B includes highly conserved residues (Lys165, Ser167 and His169), which are postulated to stabilize 3′ incoming deoxynucleotides (dNTPs). Additionally, other putative nucleotide ligands are situated close to motif C: Lys297, almost invariant in the whole AEP superfamily, and Lys300, specifically conserved in eukaryotic PrimPols. Here, we demonstrate that His169 is absolutely essential for 3′dNTP binding and, hence, for both primase and polymerase activities of HsPrimPol, whereas Ser167 and Lys297 are crucial for the dimer synthesis initiation step during priming, but dispensable for subsequent dNTP incorporation on growing primers. Conversely, the elimination of Lys165 does not affect the overall primase function; however, it is required for damage avoidance via primer–template realignments. Finally, Lys300 is identified as an extra anchor residue to stabilize the 3′ incoming dNTP. Collectively, these results demonstrate that individual ligands modulate the stabilization of 3′ incoming dNTPs to optimize DNA primer synthesis efficiency during initiation and primer maturation.
Nanostructures as the Substrate for Single-Molecule Magnet Deposition
Authors: Adamek Michał , Pastukh Oleksandr , Laskowska Magdalena , Karczmarska Agnieszka , Laskowski Łukasz
Published: December 2023

Anchoringsingle-molecule magnets (SMMs) on the surface of nanostructures is gaining particular interest in the field of molecular magnetism. The accurate organization of SMMs on low-dimensional substrates enables controlled interactions and the possibility of individual molecules’ manipulation, paving the route for a broad range of nanotechnological applications. In this comprehensive review article, the most studied types of SMMs are presented, and the quantum-mechanical origin of their magnetic behavior is described. The nanostructured matrices were grouped and characterized to outline to the reader their relevance for subsequent compounding with SMMs. Particular attention was paid to the fact that this process must be carried out in such a way as to preserve the initial functionality and properties of the molecules. Therefore, the work also includes a discussion of issues concerning both the methods of synthesis of the systems in question as well as advanced measurement techniques of the resulting complexes. A great deal of attention was also focused on the issue of surface–molecule interaction, which can affect the magnetic properties of SMMs, causing molecular crystal field distortion or magnetic anisotropy modification, which affects quantum tunneling or magnetic hysteresis, respectively. In our opinion, the analysis of the literature carried out in this way will greatly help the reader to design SMM-nanostructure systems.
Glutathione Non-Covalent Binding Sites on Hemoglobin and Major Glutathionylation Target betaCys93 Are Conservative among Both Hypoxia-Sensitive and Hypoxia-Tolerant Mammal Species
Authors: Anashkina Anastasia A. , Simonenko Sergey Yu. , Orlov Yuriy L. , Petrushanko Irina Yu.
Published: December 2023

Intracellular tripeptide glutathione is an important agent of cell survival under hypoxia. Glutathione covalently binds to SH groups of hemoglobin cysteine residues, protecting them from irreversible oxidation, and changes its affinity to oxygen. Reduced glutathione (GSH) can also form a noncovalent complex with hemoglobin. Previously, we showed that hemoglobin tetramer has four noncovalent binding sites of glutathione GSH molecules inside, two of which are released during hemoglobin transition to deoxy form. In this study, we characterized the conserved cysteine residues and residues of noncovalent glutathione binding sites in the sequences of a number of hypoxia-tolerant and hypoxia-sensitive mammals. The solvent accessibility of all HbA and HbB residues in oxy and deoxy forms was analyzed. The alpha subunit of all species considered was shown to have no conserved cysteines, whereas the beta subunit contains Cys93 residue, which is conserved across species and whose glutathionylation changes the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen 5–6-fold. It was found that the key residues of noncovalent glutathione binding sites in both alpha and beta subunits are absolutely conserved in all species considered, suggesting a common mechanism of hemoglobin redox regulation for both hypoxia-sensitive and hypoxia-tolerant mammals.
Gene Characterization of Nocturnin Paralogues in Goldfish: Full Coding Sequences, Structure, Phylogeny and Tissue Expression
Authors: Madera Diego , Alonso-Gómez Aitana , Delgado María Jesús , Valenciano Ana Isabel , Alonso-Gómez Ángel Luis
Published: December 2023

The aim of this work is the full characterization of all the nocturnin (noc) paralogues expressed in a teleost, the goldfish. An in silico analysis of the evolutive origin of noc in Osteichthyes is performed, including the splicing variants and new paralogues appearing after teleostean 3R genomic duplication and the cyprinine 4Rc. After sequencing the full-length mRNA of goldfish, we obtained two isoforms for noc-a (noc-aa and noc-ab) with two splice variants (I and II), and only one for noc-b (noc-bb) with two transcripts (II and III). Using the splicing variant II, the prediction of the secondary and tertiary structures renders a well-conserved 3D distribution of four α-helices and nine β-sheets in the three noc isoforms. A synteny analysis based on the localization of noc genes in the patrilineal or matrilineal subgenomes and a phylogenetic tree of protein sequences were accomplished to stablish a classification and a long-lasting nomenclature of noc in goldfish, and valid to be extrapolated to allotetraploid Cyprininae. Finally, both goldfish and zebrafish showed a broad tissue expression of all the noc paralogues. Moreover, the enriched expression of specific paralogues in some tissues argues in favour of neo- or subfunctionalization.
Ternary Composite of Polymer, Fullerene and Fluorinated Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as the Active Layer of Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Kobeleva Elena S. , Uvarov Mikhail N. , Kravets Natalia V. , Kulikova Aina V. , Zinovyev Vladimir A. , Gurova Olga A. , Sysoev Vitalii I. , Kondranova Anastasiya M. , Kazantsev Maxim S. , Degtyarenko Konstantin M. , Matveeva Anna G. , Kulik Leonid V.
Published: December 2023

Fluorinated multi-walled carbon nanotubes are implemented as the third component of the active layer of organic solar cells. The addition of approximately 1% weight fraction of these nanotubes into PCDTBT/PC60BM polymer/fullerene active layer leads to a noticeable increase in the main photovoltaic parameters of the solar cells, including their stability. Presumably, the origins of this influence are optimizing the donor/acceptor composite morphology and reinforcing its structure with fluorinated multi-walled carbon nanotubes. This hypothesis is supported by the dramatic influence of the fluorinated multi-walled carbon nanotube additive on the kinetics of the decay of the EPR signal of light-induced charges in the PCDTBT/PC60BM composite.
Montmorillonite-Sodium Alginate Oral Colon-Targeting Microcapsule Design for WGX-50 Encapsulation and Controlled Release in Gastro-Intestinal Tract
Authors: Jiang Yibei , Wang Zhou , Cao Ke , Xia Lu , Wei Dongqing , Zhang Yi
Published: December 2023

The montmorillonite-sodium alginate (MMT-SA) colon-targeting microcapsules have been designed as a WGX-50 encapsulation and controlled release vehicle used in oral administration. The MMT-SA microcapsule was formed from a cross-linking reaction, and the stable micropore in the microcapsule changed with a different MMT-SA mixed mass ratio. The MMT-SA microcapsule has a reinforced micropore structure and an enhanced swell–dissolution in SIF and SCF with alkaline environment, which is attributed to the incorporated MMT. The MMT-SA microcapsule exhibited a high WGX-50 encapsulation rate up to 98.81 ± 0.31% and an obvious WGX-50 controlled release in the simulated digestive fluid in vitro. The WGX-50 loaded with MMT-SA microcapsule showed a weak minimizing drug loss in SGF (Simulated Gastric Fluid) with an acidic environment, while it showed a strong maximizing drug release in SIF (Simulated Intestinal Fluid) and SCF (Simulated Colonic Fluid) with an alkaline environment. These features make the MMT-SA microcapsule a nominated vehicle for colon disease treatment used in oral administration.
CEO Current and Prospective Wealth Option Compensation and Corporate Social Responsibility: The Behavioral Agency Model
Authors: Harjoto Maretno Agus , Joo Sunghoon , Lee Sang Mook , Song Hakjoon
Published: December 2023

This study examines the relationship between CEO options compensation and corporate social responsibility (CSR) based on the behavioral agency model (BAM). The BAM assumes that the CEO is bounded by loss-aversion behavior. Using constructs from the BAM, i.e., CEO current and prospective wealth from their options compensation, this study examines the differing effects of CEO current wealth and prospective wealth on firms’ CSR strengths, CSR concerns, institutional CSR and technical CSR. Based on a sample of 1565 U.S. firms during 1996 to 2018, the study finds that CEO current wealth is negatively related to firms’ CSR strengths and CSR concerns. The study also finds that CEO prospective wealth is positively related to firms’ CSR strengths but is unrelated to CSR concerns. CEO current wealth is negatively related to institutional CSR, whereas CEO prospective wealth is positively related to institutional and technical CSR. CEO current (prospective) wealth is more strongly and negatively (positively) related to institutional CSR than technical CSR. This study indicates that designing CEO option compensation to align top managers’ interests with the stakeholder interests requires a greater understanding of how CEO bounded rationality behavior toward loss aversion and risk taking is influenced by their option compensation.
The CK2/ECE1c Partnership: An Unveiled Pathway to Aggressiveness in Cancer
Authors: Villalobos-Nova Karla , Toro María de los Ángeles , Pérez-Moreno Pablo , Niechi Ignacio , Tapia Julio C.
Published: December 2023

The endothelin-1 (ET1) peptide has a pathological role in the activation of proliferation, survival and invasiveness pathways in different cancers. ET1’s effects rely on its activation by the endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE1), which is expressed as four isoforms, differing only in their cytoplasmic N-terminuses. We already demonstrated in colorectal cancer, glioblastoma, and preliminarily lung cancer, that the isoform ECE1c heightens aggressiveness by promoting cancer stem cell traits. This is achieved through a non-canonical ET1-independent mechanism of enhancement of ECE1c’s stability upon CK2-dependent phosphorylation at S18 and S20. Here, a K6 residue is presumably responsible for ECE1c ubiquitination as its mutation to R impairs proteasomal degradation. However, how phosphorylation enhances ECE1c’s stability and how this translates into aggressiveness are still open questions. In this brief report, by swapping residues to either phospho-mimetic or phospho-resistant amino acids, we propose that the N-terminus may also be phosphorylated at Y5 and/or T9 by an unknown kinase(s). In addition, N-terminus phosphorylation may lead to a blockage of K6 ubiquitination, increasing ECE1c’s stability and presumably activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Thus, a novel CK2/ECE1c partnership may be emerging to promote aggressiveness and thus become a biomarker of poor prognosis and a potential therapeutic target for several cancers.
The Distribution of Manner and Frequency Adverbs in Child Heritage Speakers of Spanish
Authors: Gómez Alzate Edier , Cuza Alejandro , Camacho José , Zanelli Dafne
Published: December 2023

We investigate the acquisition of adverb placement in Spanish among school-age child heritage speakers of Spanish born and raised in the US by Mexican parents. We examine frequency and manner adverbs with negative and positive polarity and the potential role of cross-linguistic influence, dominance, and experience in the path and rate of development. Fourteen child heritage speakers of Spanish born and raised in the US and twenty-five Spanish monolingual children from Mexico completed an elicited production task. Results showed that the heritage children produced significantly fewer verb-raising structures compared to the monolingual children, leading to a higher proportion of pre-verbal adverb use and adverb-final use. The heritage children treated manner and frequency adverbs with negative and positive polarity significantly differently. We also found a strong correlation between dominance and experience in the probability of producing specific adverbial positions. In other words, common adverbial positions in English were more likely to be produced with higher dominance and experience in English; likewise, Spanish adverbial positions were more likely to be used with higher dominance and experience in Spanish. We argue for differential outcomes in child heritage grammar due to differences in the path and rate of language development as well as the role of dominance and experience in child heritage language acquisition.
Finite Bending of Fiber-Reinforced Visco-Hyperelastic Material: Analytical Approach and FEM
Authors: Pashazadeh Jafar , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Baghani Mostafa , Choi Eunsoo
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a new anisotropic visco-hyperelastic constitutive model for finite bending of an incompressible rectangular elastomeric material. The proposed approach is based on the Mooney–Rivlin anisotropic strain energy function and non-linear visco-hyperelastic method. In this study, we aim to examine the mechanical response of a reinforced viscoelastic rectangular bar with a group of fibers under bending. Anisotropic materials are typically composed of one (or more) family of reinforcing fibers embedded within a soft matrix material. This operation may lead to an enhancement in the strength and stiffness of soft materials. In addition, a finite element simulation is carried out to validate the accuracy of the analytical solution. In this research, the well-known stress relaxation test, as well as the multi-step relaxation test, are examined both analytically and numerically. The results obtained from the analytical solution are found to be in good agreement with those from the finite element method. Therefore, it can be deduced that the proposed model is competent in describing the mechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced materials when subjected to finite bending deformations.
Numerical Modelling of the Heat Source and the Thermal Response of an Additively Manufactured Composite during an Active Thermographic Inspection
Authors: Notebaert Arnaud , Quinten Julien , Moonens Marc , Olmez Vedi , Barros Camila , Cunha Sebastião Simões , Demarbaix Anthonin
Published: December 2023

This paper deals with the numerical modelling of non-destructive testing of composite parts using active thermography. This method has emerged as a new approach for performing non-destructive testing (NDT) on continuous carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic polymer (CCFRTP) components, particularly in view of detecting porosity or delamination. In this context, our numerical model has been developed around references containing internal defects of various shapes and sizes. The first novelty lies in the fact that the heat source used in the experimental setup is modelled exhaustively to accurately model the radiation emitted by the lamp, as well as the convection and conduction around the bulb. A second novelty concerns the modelling of the CCFRTP making up the benchmark used. Indeed, its thermal properties vary as a function of the sample temperature. Therefore, the actual thermal properties have been experimentally measured and were later used in our model. The latter then captures the material dependency on temperature. The results obtained by our model proved to be in close agreement with the experimental results on real reference points, paving the way for future use of the model to optimise experimental configurations and, in particular, the heating parameters.
The Effect of Sintering on Zirconia Manufactured via Suspension-Enclosing Projection Stereolithography for Dental Applications: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Unnadkat Amit , Kirby Levi , Kulanthaivel Senthilguru , Rysavy Oscar , Tsujimoto Akimasa , Song Xuan , Teixeira Erica C.
Published: December 2023

Background: Zirconia is a widely used material in the dental industry due to its excellent mechanical and aesthetic properties. Recently, a new 3D printing process called suspension-enclosing projection stereolithography (SEPS) was introduced to fabricate zirconia dental restorations. However, the effect of the sintering time and temperature on the properties of zirconia produced via SEPS has not been fully investigated. Methods: Zirconia slurries were prepared with varying percentages of zirconia powders and 3D printing resins, and 5Y-TZP (5 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia) (n = 40) and 3Y-TZP (3 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia) (n = 40) bar specimens were fabricated via SEPS manufacturing. The specimens were sintered at different temperatures and dwell times, and their flexural strength, density, and phase composition were measured. The viscosity of the slurries was also measured. Statistical analysis was performed using Welch’s ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis tests to evaluate the impact of the sintering conditions. Results: Significant differences in flexural strength (p < 0.01) were observed between the 5Y-TZP samples, with those sintered at 1530 °C for 120 min showing an average strength of 268.34 ± 44.66 MPa, compared to 174.16 ± 42.29 MPa for those sintered at 1450 °C for 120 min. In terms of density, significant differences (p < 0.01) were noted for the 3Y-TZP specimens, with an average density of 6.66 ± 0.49 g/cm3 for samples sintered at 1530 °C for 120 min, versus 5.75 ± 0.55 g/cm3 for those sintered at 1530 °C for 10 min. X-ray diffraction confirmed the presence of a predominantly tetragonal phase in both materials. Conclusions: Zirconia printed via SEPS manufacturing can be sintered at a higher temperature with shorter dwell times, thereby producing high density samples. Different sintering conditions can be used to fully sinter 3D-printed zirconia for potential dental applications.
Developing New Bounds for the Performance Guarantee of the Jump Neighborhood for Scheduling Jobs on Uniformly Related Machines
Authors: Muñoz Felipe T. , Latorre-Núñez Guillermo , Ramos-Maldonado Mario
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the worst-case performance guarantee of locally optimal solutions to minimize the total weighted completion time on uniformly related parallel machines. The investigated neighborhood structure is Jump, also called insertion or move. This research focused on establishing the local optimality condition expressed as an inequality and mapping that maps a schedule into an inner product space so that the norm of the mapping is closely related to the total weighted completion time of the schedule. We determine two new upper bounds for the performance guarantee, which take the form of an expression based on parameters that describe the family of instances: the speed of the fastest machine, the speed of the slowest machine, and the number of machines. These new bounds outperform the parametric upper bound previously established in the existing literature and enable a better understanding of the performance of the solutions obtained for the Jump neighborhood in this scheduling problem, according to parameters that describe the family of instances.
Clinical Outcomes of a Novel Unidirectional Porous β-Tricalcium Phosphate Filling in Distal Radius Fracture with Volar Locking Plate Fixation: Secondary Publication of the Japanese Version
Authors: Sudo Yoshito , Nishida Yoshihiro , Nakashima Hiroatsu , Arai Tetsuya , Takatsu Tetsuro
Published: December 2023

Postoperative loss of correction is a concern in cases of distal radius fracture with bone loss after surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of a β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) with unidirectional pore structure (Affinos®: Kuraray Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) with internal fixation in patients with bone defects during the correction of distal radius fractures. Thirty-nine patients (40 radii) treated between 2016 and August 2020 were included in the study. There were 8 males and 31 females; the mean age was 70.9 (32–88). The mean postoperative observation period was 14.6 (3.4–24) months. The bone defect that occurred in the surgery was filled with Affinos® and fixed with a locking plate. Radial inclination (RI), volar tilt (VT), and ulnar variance (UV) were evaluated after the operation and at the final observation. The start of absorption and the completion of replacement to the host bone of Affinos® were also evaluated. There were no complications associated with grafts of Affinos®. The mean time of translucent findings around artificial bone was 1.85 (0.5–6) months, and that of complete resorption was 10.6 (1.5–16.5) months after surgery. The mean RI was 21.82° after surgery and 21.16° at final observation. The mean VT was 8.54° after surgery and 8.50° at final observation. The mean UV was −0.3 mm after surgery and 0.5 mm at final observation. Affinos® was resorbed relatively early, and host bone formation was observed. Filling of unidirectional pore structure β-TCP with internal fixation showed favorable outcomes in the surgery of distal radius fractures with bone defects.
Spinal Orthosis in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: An Overview of the Braces Provided by the National Health Service in Italy
Authors: Del Prete Cristina Maria , Tarantino Domiziano , Viva Mattia Giuseppe , Murgia Massimiliano , Vergati Daniele , Barassi Giovanni , Sparvieri Eleonora , Di Stanislao Eugenio , Perpetuini David , Russo Emanuele Francesco , Filoni Serena , Pellegrino Raffaello
Published: December 2023

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a lateral, rotated curvature of the spine. It is a 3-dimensional deformity that arises in otherwise healthy children at or around puberty. AIS is the most common form of scoliosis in the pediatric population. The etiology is multifactorial, including genetic and environmental factors. The incidence is roughly equal between males and females, while there is a higher risk of progression in females. Guidelines for AIS treatment identify three levels of treatment: observation, physiotherapy scoliosis-specific exercises, and braces. In this paper, we carried out a review of the scientific literature about the indication and success rates of the braces provided for free by the National Health Service in Italy (SSN). Despite a general consensus on the efficacy of rigid bracing treatment and its use in AIS, an important heterogeneity about the treatment is present in the scientific literature, demonstrating a high degree of variability. The overall success rate of the braces provided by the SSN is high, suggesting an important therapeutic role in the treatment of AIS. Robust guidelines are needed to ensure uniform and effective treatments.
Role of Novel Inflammatory Factors in Central Retinal Vein Occlusion with Macular Edema
Authors: Yasuda Kanako , Noma Hidetaka , Mimura Tatsuya , Nonaka Ryota , Sasaki Shotaro , Ofusa Akemi , Shimura Masahiko
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives: To investigate associations among the aqueous humor levels of novel inflammatory factors, including FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt-3L), fractalkine, CXC chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL-16), and endocan-1; the severity of macular edema in central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO); and the prognosis of CRVO with macular edema after antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. Materials and Methods: Aqueous humor was obtained during anti-VEGF treatment with intravitreal ranibizumab injection (IRI) in patients with CRVO and macular edema (n = 19) and during cataract surgery in patients with cataracts (controls, n = 20), and the levels of VEGF and novel inflammatory factors were measured. Macular edema was evaluated by central macular thickness (CMT) and neurosensory retinal thickness (TNeuro), and improvement was evaluated by calculating the percentage change in CMT and TNeuro from before to 1 month after IRI. Results: The levels of VEGF and the novel inflammatory factors were significantly higher in the CRVO group, and the levels of Flt-3L, CXCL-16, and endocan-1 were significantly correlated with each other and with the aqueous flare value. Baseline levels of Flt-3L, CXCL-16, and endocan-1 had a significantly negative correlation with the change in CMT, and the baseline level of CXCL-16 was significantly negatively correlated with the change in TNeuro. Conclusions: Relations among novel inflammatory factors should be further investigated. These findings may help improve understanding of macular edema in CRVO patients and aid the development of new treatments targeting novel inflammatory factors.