bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the Enigmatic Influence: Non-Coding RNAs Orchestrating Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Tumor Progression
Authors: Yang Xinbing , Du Yajing , Luo Lulu , Xu Xinru , Xiong Shizheng , Yang Xueni , Guo Li , Liang Tingming
Published: September 2023

Dysregulated expression of specific non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has been strongly linked to tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and therapeutic resistance. These ncRNAs can act as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors, thereby serving as valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers. Numerous studies have implicated the participation of ncRNAs in the regulation of diverse signaling pathways, including the pivotal Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway that is widely acknowledged for its pivotal role in embryogenesis, cellular proliferation, and tumor biology control. Recent emerging evidence has shed light on the capacity of ncRNAs to interact with key components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, thereby modulating the expression of Wnt target genes in cancer cells. Notably, the activity of this pathway can reciprocally influence the expression levels of ncRNAs. However, comprehensive analysis investigating the specific ncRNAs associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and their intricate interactions in cancer remains elusive. Based on these noteworthy findings, this review aims to unravel the intricate associations between ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during cancer initiation, progression, and their potential implications for therapeutic interventions. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive overview of the characteristics of ncRNAs and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, accompanied by a thorough discussion of their functional roles in tumor biology. Targeting ncRNAs and molecules associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway may emerge as a promising and effective therapeutic strategy in future cancer treatments.
Can Pyomelanin Produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Promote the Regeneration of Gastric Epithelial Cells and Enhance Helicobacter pylori Phagocytosis?
Authors: Urbaniak Mateusz M. , Rudnicka Karolina , Gościniak Grażyna , Chmiela Magdalena
Published: September 2023

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the most common cause of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. Successful colonization of the stomach by H. pylori is related to the complex interactions of these bacteria and its components with host cells. The growing antibiotic resistance of H. pylori and various mechanisms of evading the immune response have forced the search for new biologically active substances that exhibit antibacterial properties and limit the harmful effects of these bacteria on gastric epithelial cells and immune cells. In this study, the usefulness of pyomelanin (PyoM) produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa for inhibiting the metabolic activity of H. pylori was evaluated using the resazurin reduction assay, as well as in vitro cell studies used to verify the cytoprotective, anti-apoptotic and pro-regenerative effects of PyoM in the H. pylori LPS environment. We have shown that both water-soluble (PyoMsol) and water-insoluble (PyoMinsol) PyoM exhibit similar antibacterial properties against selected reference and clinical strains of H. pylori. This study showed that PyoM at a 1 μg/mL concentration reduced H. pylori-driven apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in fibroblasts, monocytes or gastric epithelial cells. In addition, PyoM enhanced the phagocytosis of H. pylori. PyoMsol showed better pro-regenerative and immunomodulatory activities than PyoMinsol.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Immuno-Oncology Characteristics of Tumor-Infiltrating T Lymphocytes in Photodynamic Therapy-Treated Colorectal Cancer Mouse Model
Authors: Lee Eun-Ji , Choi Jang-Gi , Han Jung Ho , Kim Yong-Wan , Lim Junmo , Chung Hwan-Suck
Published: September 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has shown promise in reducing metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC); however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Modulating tumor-infiltrating immune cells by PDT may be achieved, which requires the characterization of immune cell populations in the tumor microenvironment by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Here, we determined the effect of Chlorin e6 (Ce6)-mediated PDT on tumor-infiltrating T cells using scRNA-seq analysis. We used a humanized programmed death-1/programmed death ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) MC38 cell allograft mouse model, considering its potential as an immunogenic cancer model and in combination with PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade. PDT treatment significantly reduced tumor growth in mice containing hPD-1/PD-L1 MC38 tumors. scRNA-seq analysis revealed that the PDT group had increased levels of CD8+ activated T cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, but decreased levels of exhausted CD8+ T cells. PDT treatment also enhanced the infiltration of CD8+ T cells into tumors and increased the production of key effector molecules, including granzyme B and perforin 1. These findings provide insight into immune-therapeutic modulation for CRC patients and highlight the potential of PDT in overcoming immune evasion and enhancing antitumor immunity.
PDT-Induced Activation Enhanced by Hormone Response to Treatment
Authors: Domka Wojciech , Bartusik-Aebisher Dorota , Przygoda Maria , Dynarowicz Klaudia , Tomik Jerzy , Aebisher David
Published: September 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a medical treatment with the use of a photosensitizing agent (PS), which, when activated by light, results in selective tissue damage with a cytotoxic effect on tumor cells. PDT leads to the induction of an acute-phase response, which results in the involvement of adrenal glucocorticoid (GC) hormones. PDT, by activating the hormonal response, affects the treatment of cancer. GC release is observed due to adrenal activity, which is driven by changes in the hypothalamic pituitary–adrenal axis triggered by stress signals emanating from the PDT treated tumor. The hormones released in this process in the context of the PDT-induced acute-phase response perform many important functions during anticancer therapy. They lead, among other things, to the systemic mobilization of neutrophils and the production of acute-phase reagents, and also control the production of immunoregulatory proteins and proteins that modulate inflammation. GCs can radically affect the activity of various inflammatory and immune cells, including the apoptosis of cancer cells. A better understanding of the modulation of GC activity could improve the outcomes of cancer patients treated with PDT.
POLD4 Promotes Glioma Cell Proliferation and Suppressive Immune Microenvironment: A Pan-Cancer Analysis Integrated with Experimental Validation
Authors: Jiang Cheng , Fan Fei , Xu Weiming , Jiang Xiaobing
Published: September 2023

POLD4 plays a crucial part in the complex machinery of DNA replication and repair as a vital component of the DNA polymerase delta complex. In this research, we obtained original information from various publicly available databases. Using a blend of R programming and internet resources, we initiated an extensive examination into the correlation between POLD4 expression and the various elements of cancers. In addition, we performed knockdown experiments in glioma cell lines to authenticate its significant impact. We discovered that POLD4 is upregulated in various malignant tumors, demonstrating a significant correlation with poor patient survival prognosis. Using function analysis, it was uncovered that POLD4 exhibited intricate associations with signaling pathways spanning multiple tumor types. Subsequent investigations unveiled the close association of POLD4 with the immune microenvironment and the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Drugs like trametinib, saracatinib, and dasatinib may be used in patients with high POLD4. Using experimental analysis, we further confirmed the overexpression of POLD4 in gliomas, as well as its correlation with glioma recurrence, proliferation, and the suppressive immune microenvironment. Our research findings indicate that the expression pattern of POLD4 not only serves as a robust indicator of prognosis in cancer patients but also holds promising potential as a new focus for treatment.
A Transcriptomic Analysis of Smoking-Induced Gene Expression Alterations in Coronary Artery Disease Patients
Authors: Merzah Mohammed , Póliska Szilárd , Balogh László , Sándor János , Szász István , Natae Shewaye , Fiatal Szilvia
Published: September 2023

Smoking is a well established risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Despite this, there have been no previous studies investigating the effects of smoking on blood gene expression in CAD patients. This single-centre cross-sectional study was designed with clearly defined inclusion criteria to address this gap. We conducted a high-throughput approach using next generation sequencing analysis with a single-end sequencing protocol and a read length of 75-cycles. Sixty-one patients with a median age of 67 years (range: 28–88 years) were recruited, and only 44 subjects were included for further analyses. Our investigation revealed 120 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between smokers and nonsmokers, with a fold change (FC) of ≥1.5 and a p-value < 0.05. Among these DEGs, 15 were upregulated and 105 were downregulated. Notably, when applying a more stringent adjusted FC ≥ 2.0, 31 DEGs (5 upregulated, annotated to immune response pathways, and 26 downregulated, involving oxygen and haem binding or activity, with FDR ≤ 0.03) remained statistically significant at an alpha level of <0.05. Our results illuminate the molecular mechanisms underlying CAD, fortifying existing epidemiological evidence. Of particular interest is the unexplored overexpression of RCAN3, TRAV4, and JCHAIN genes, which may hold promising implications for the involvement of these genes in CAD among smokers.
Strontium Chloride Improves Reproductive Function and Alters Gut Microbiota in Male Rats
Authors: Huang Xulai , Gao Yanan , Zhang Yangdong , Wang Jiaqi , Zheng Nan
Published: September 2023

Strontium (Sr) is an essential trace element in the human body and plays an important role in regulating male reproductive health. Recent studies have shown that gut flora plays a key role in maintaining spermatogenesis, as well as testicular health, through the gut–testis axis. At present, it is unclear whether gut microbiota can mediate the effects of Sr on sperm quality, and what the underlying mechanisms may be. We investigated the effects of different concentrations of strontium chloride (SrCl2) solutions (0, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg BW) on reproductive function and gut microbiota in male Wistar rats (6–8 weeks, 250 ± 20 g). All the animals were euthanized after 37 days of treatment. The Sr-50 group significantly increased sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm viability in rats. After Sr treatment, serum and testicular testosterone (T) and Sr levels increased in a dose-dependent manner with increasing Sr concentration. At the same time, we also found that testicular marker enzymes (ACP, LDH) and testosterone marker genes (StAR, 3β-HSD, and Cyp11a1) increased significantly in varying degrees after Sr treatment, while serum NO levels decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Further investigation of intestinal flora showed that SrCl2 affected the composition of gut microbiome, but did not affect the richness and diversity of gut microbiota. Sr treatment reduced the number of bacteria with negative effects on reproductive health, such as Bacteroidetes, Tenericutes, Romboutsia, Ruminococcaceae_UCG_014, Weissella, and Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes_group, and added bacteria with negative effects on reproductive health, such as Jeotgalicoccus. To further explore the Sr and the relationship between the gut microbiota, we conducted a Spearman correlation analysis, and the results showed that the gut microbiota was closely correlated with Sr content in serum and testicular tissue, sex hormone levels, and testicular marker enzymes. Additionally, gut microbiota can also regulate each other and jointly maintain the homeostasis of the body’s internal environment. However, we found no significant correlation between intestinal flora and sperm quality in this study, which may be related to the small sample size of our 16S rDNA sequencing. In conclusion, the Sr-50 group significantly increased T levels and sperm quality, and improved the levels of testicular marker enzymes and testosterone marker genes in the rats. Sr treatment altered the gut flora of the rats. However, further analysis of the effects of gut microbiota in mediating the effects of SrCl2 on male reproductive function is needed. This study may improve the current understanding of the interaction between Sr, reproductive health, and gut microbiota, providing evidence for the development of Sr-rich foods and the prevention of male fertility decline.
Long Noncoding RNA ZBED5-AS1 Facilitates Tumor Progression and Metastasis in Lung Adenocarcinoma via ZNF146/ATR/Chk1 Axis
Authors: Jiang Feng , Huang Xiaolu , Ling Liqun , Tang Shiyi , Zhou Huixin , Cai Xueding , Wang Yumin
Published: September 2023

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in tumorigenesis, including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the functional and regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs in LUAD remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of lncRNA ZBED5-AS1 in LUAD. We found that ZBED5-AS1 was upregulated in LUAD specimens and overexpressed in LUAD cell lines. ZBED5-AS1 promoted LUAD cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and promoted LUAD cell growth in vivo. ZBED5-AS1 promoted ZNF146 expression, activating the ATR/Chk1 pathway and leading to LUAD progression. We observed that exosomes from LUAD cells have a higher expression of ZBED5-AS1 compared with exosomes from the normal cell line BEAS-2B. Coculture experiments with exosomes showed that ZBED5-AS1 expression was downregulated after coculture with Si-ZBED5-AS1 exosomes, and coculture with exosomes with low ZBED5-AS1 expression inhibited proliferation and invasion of LUAD cells. Our results indicate that ZBED5-AS1 functions as an oncogenic factor in LUAD cells by targeting the ZNF146/ATR/Chk1 axis.
Tetraploidization Increases the Motility and Invasiveness of Cancer Cells
Authors: Jemaà Mohamed , Daams Renee , Charfi Slim , Mertens Fredrik , Huber Stephan , Massoumi Ramin
Published: September 2023

Polyploidy and metastasis are associated with a low probability of disease-free survival in cancer patients. Polyploid cells are known to facilitate tumorigenesis. However, few data associate polyploidization with metastasis. Here, by generating and using diploid (2n) and tetraploid (4n) clones from malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) and colon carcinoma (RKO), we demonstrate the migration and invasion advantage of tetraploid cells in vitro using several assays, including the wound healing, the OrisTM two-dimensional cell migration, single-cell migration tracking by video microscopy, the Boyden chamber, and the xCELLigence RTCA real-time cell migration. Motility advantage was observed despite tetraploid cell proliferation weakness. We could also demonstrate preferential metastatic potential in vivo for the tetraploid clone using the tail vein injection in mice and tracking metastatic tumors in the lung. Using the Mitelman Database of Chromosome Aberrations in Cancer, we found an accumulation of polyploid karyotypes in metastatic tumors compared to primary ones. This work reveals the clinical relevance of the polyploid subpopulation and the strategic need to highlight polyploidy in preclinical studies as a therapeutic target for metastasis.
Foveal Hypoplasia in CRB1-Related Retinopathies
Authors: Rodriguez-Martinez Ana Catalina , Higgins Bethany Elora , Tailor-Hamblin Vijay , Malka Samantha , Cheloni Riccardo , Collins Alexander Mark , Bladen John , Henderson Robert , Moosajee Mariya
Published: September 2023

The CRB1 gene plays a role in retinal development and its maintenance. When disrupted, it gives a range of phenotypes such as early-onset severe retinal dystrophy/Leber congenital amaurosis (EOSRD/LCA), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), cone-rod dystrophy (CORD) and macular dystrophy (MD). Studies in CRB1 retinopathies have shown thickening and coarse lamination of retinal layers resembling an immature retina. Its role in foveal development has not yet been described; however, this retrospective study is the first to report foveal hypoplasia (FH) presence in a CRB1-related retinopathy cohort. Patients with pathogenic biallelic CRB1 variants from Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK, were collected. Demographic, clinical data and SD-OCT analyses with FH structural grading were performed. A total of 15 (48%) patients had EOSRD/LCA, 11 (35%) MD, 3 (9%) CORD and 2 (6%) RP. FH was observed in 20 (65%; CI: 0.47–0.79) patients, all of whom were grade 1. A significant difference in BCVA between patients with FH and without was found (p = 0.014). BCVA continued to worsen over time in both groups (p < 0.001), irrespective of FH. This study reports FH in a CRB1 cohort, supporting the role of CRB1 in foveal development. FH was associated with poorer BCVA and abnormal retinal morphology. Nonetheless, its presence did not alter the disease progression.
Identification of a Monoclonal Antibody against Porcine Deltacoronavirus Membrane Protein
Authors: Wu Huiguang , Li Chen , Sun Xian , Cheng Yue , Chen Zhenhai
Published: September 2023

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an emerging virus that poses a significant threat to the global swine industry. Its membrane (M) protein is crucial for virion assembly and virus–host interactions. We selected the hydrophilic region of M protein for prokaryotic expression, purification, and recombinant protein production. Utilizing hybridoma technology, we prepared the monoclonal antibody (mAb) 24-A6 against M protein. The mAb 24-A6 was shown to be suitable for use in immunofluorescence assays, western blotting, and immunoprecipitation, with specificity for PDCoV and no cross-reactivity with other five porcine viruses. The M protein was observed to be expressed as early as 3 h after PDCoV infection, increasing its expression over the duration of infection. Notably, the antigenic epitope of the M protein identified as 103SPESRL108 recognized by mAb 24-A6 was found within a conserved structural domain (SWWSFNPETNNL) of the coronavirus M protein, indicating a crucial overlap between a functionally important viral assembly region and a region recognized by the immune system. Our findings provide valuable insights into mAb 24-A6 targeting the antigenic epitope of M protein and may contribute to the development of diagnostic tools for PDCoV infection and fundamental research into the function of PDCoV M protein.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Molecular Mechanism of Leukemia”
Authors: An Jungeun , Ko Myunggon
Published: September 2023

Hematopoiesis is the intricate process responsible for all blood cell formation and maintenance, and is tightly regulated by a myriad of intrinsic and extrinsic factors [...]
Novel Toxicodynamic Model of Subcutaneous Envenomation to Characterize Snake Venom Coagulopathies and Assess the Efficacy of Site-Directed Inorganic Antivenoms
Authors: Nielsen Vance G.
Published: September 2023

Venomous snake bite adversely affects millions of people yearly, but few animal models allow for the determination of toxicodynamic timelines with hemotoxic venoms to characterize the onset and severity of coagulopathy or assess novel, site-directed antivenom strategies. Thus, the goals of this investigation were to create a rabbit model of subcutaneous envenomation to assess venom toxicodynamics and efficacy of ruthenium-based antivenom administration. New Zealand White rabbits were sedated with midazolam via the ear vein and had viscoelastic measurements of whole blood and/or plasmatic coagulation kinetics obtained from ear artery samples. Venoms derived from Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus, Bothrops moojeni, or Calloselasma rhodostoma were injected subcutaneously, and changes in coagulation were determined over three hours and compared to samples obtained prior to envenomation. Other rabbits had ruthenium-based antivenoms injected five minutes after venom injection. Viscoelastic analyses demonstrated diverse toxicodynamic patterns of coagulopathy consistent with the molecular composition of the proteomes of the venoms tested. The antivenoms tested attenuated venom-mediated coagulopathy. A novel rabbit model can be used to characterize the onset and severity of envenomation by diverse proteomes and to assess site-directed antivenoms. Future investigation is planned involving other medically important venoms and antivenom development.
Postprandial Hyperlipidemia: Its Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Atherogenesis, and Treatments
Authors: Yanai Hidekatsu , Adachi Hiroki , Hakoshima Mariko , Katsuyama Hisayuki
Published: September 2023

Postprandial hyperlipidemia showing postprandial increases in serum triglyceride (TG) is associated with the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). To diagnose postprandial hyperlipidemia, the oral fat loading test (OFLT) should be performed; however, this test is very time-consuming and is difficult to perform. Elevated serum TG levels reflect an increase in TG-rich lipoproteins (TRLs), such as chylomicrons (CM), very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), and their remnants (CM remnants [CMRs] and VLDL remnants [VLDLRs]). Understanding of elevation in CMR and/or VLDLR can lead us to understand the existence of postprandial hyperlipidemia. The measurement of apo B48, which is a constituent of CM and CMR; non-fasting TG, which includes TG content in all lipoproteins including CM and CMR; non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), which includes TRLs and low-density lipoprotein; and remnant cholesterol are useful to reveal the existence of postprandial hyperlipidemia. Postprandial hyperlipidemia is observed in patients with familial type III hyperlipoproteinemia, familial combined hyperlipidemia, chronic kidney disease, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Postprandial hyperlipidemia is closely related to postprandial hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance may be an inducing and enhancing factor for both postprandial hyperlipidemia and postprandial hyperglycemia. Remnant lipoproteins and metabolic disorders associated with postprandial hyperlipidemia have various atherogenic properties such as induction of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. A healthy diet, calorie restriction, weight loss, and exercise positively impact postprandial hyperlipidemia. Anti-hyperlipidemic drugs such pemafibrate, fenofibrate, bezafibrate, ezetimibe, and eicosapentaenoic acid have been shown to improve postprandial hyperlipidemia. Anti-diabetic drugs including metformin, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, pioglitazone, dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 analogues have been shown to ameliorate postprandial hyperlipidemia. Although sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors have not been proven to reduce postprandial hyperlipidemia, they reduced fasting apo B48 and remnant lipoprotein cholesterol. In conclusion, it is important to appropriately understand the existence of postprandial hyperlipidemia and to connect it to optimal treatments. However, there are some problems with the diagnosis for postprandial hyperlipidemia. Postprandial hyperlipidemia cannot be specifically defined by measures such as TG levels 2 h after a meal. To study interventions for postprandial hyperlipidemia with the outcome of preventing the onset of ASCVD, it is necessary to define postprandial hyperlipidemia using reference values such as IGT.
Diagnosis, Progress, and Treatment Update of Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Kuo Ho-Chang
Published: September 2023

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute inflammatory disorder that primarily affects children and can lead to coronary artery lesions (CAL) if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The original clinical criteria for diagnosing KD were reported by Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki in 1967 and have been used for decades. However, research since then has highlighted the limitations of relying solely on these criteria, as they might lead to underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, potentially increasing the risk of coronary artery complications. This review appears to discuss several important aspects related to KD diagnosis and management. The current diagnostic methods for KD might need updates, especially considering cases that do not fit the typical clinical criteria. Recognizing diagnostic pitfalls and distinguishing KD from other conditions that might have similar clinical presentations is essential. The differences and similarities between KD and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), another inflammatory condition that has been associated with COVID-19, were also reviewed. The review explores the potential role of eosinophil count, new biomarkers, microRNA panels, and scoring systems in aiding the diagnosis of KD. Overall, the review article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of KD diagnosis and management, incorporating new diagnostic methods, biomarkers, and treatment approaches to improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
Piperine Induces Apoptosis and Autophagy in HSC-3 Human Oral Cancer Cells by Regulating PI3K Signaling Pathway
Authors: Han Eun-Ji , Choi Eun-Young , Jeon Su-Ji , Lee Sang-Woo , Moon Jun-Mo , Jung Soo-Hyun , Jung Ji-Youn
Published: September 2023

Currently, therapies for treating oral cancer have various side effects; therefore, research on treatment methods employing natural substances is being conducted. This study aimed to investigate piperine-induced apoptosis and autophagy in HSC-3 human oral cancer cells and their effects on tumor growth in vivo. A 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay demonstrated that piperine reduced the viability of HSC-3 cells and 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining, annexin-V/propidium iodide staining, and analysis of apoptosis-related protein expression confirmed that piperine induces apoptosis in HSC-3 cells. Additionally, piperine-induced autophagy was confirmed by the observation of increased acidic vesicular organelles and autophagy marker proteins, demonstrating that autophagy in HSC-3 cells induces apoptosis. Mechanistically, piperine induced apoptosis and autophagy by inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway in HSC-3 cells. We also confirmed that piperine inhibits oral cancer tumor growth in vivo via antitumor effects related to apoptosis and PI3K signaling pathway inhibition. Therefore, we suggest that piperine can be considered a natural anticancer agent for human oral cancer.
Production of Recombinant Zika Virus Envelope Protein by Airlift Bioreactor as a New Subunit Vaccine Platform
Authors: da Costa Hernan H. M. , Bielavsky Monica , Orts Diego J. B. , Araujo Sergio , Adriani Patrícia P. , Nogueira Juliana S. , Astray Renato M. , Pandey Ramendra P. , Lancellotti Marcelo , Cunha-Junior Jair P. , Prudencio Carlos R.
Published: September 2023

The Zika Virus (ZIKV) is an emerging arbovirus of great public health concern, particularly in the Americas after its last outbreak in 2015. There are still major challenges regarding disease control, and there is no ZIKV vaccine currently approved for human use. Among many different vaccine platforms currently under study, the recombinant envelope protein from Zika Virus (rEZIKV) constitutes an alternative option for vaccine development and has great potential for monitoring ZIKV infection and antibody response. This study describes a method to obtain a bioactive and functional rEZIKV using an E. coli expression system, with the aid of a 5-L airlift bioreactor and following an automated fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) protocol, capable of obtaining high yields of approximately 20 mg of recombinant protein per liter of bacterium cultures. The purified rEZIKV presented preserved antigenicity and immunogenicity. Our results show that the use of an airlift bioreactor for the production of rEZIKV is ideal for establishing protocols and further research on ZIKV vaccines bioprocess, representing a promising system for the production of a ZIKV envelope recombinant protein-based vaccine candidate.
Blood ACE2 Protein Level Correlates with COVID-19 Severity
Authors: Shevchuk Oksana , Pak Anastasia , Palii Svitlana , Ivankiv Yana , Kozak Kateryna , Korda Mykhaylo , Vari Sandor G.
Published: September 2023

ACE2’s impact on the severity of COVID-19 is widely discussed but still controversial. To estimate its role in aspects of the main risk factors and comorbidities, we involved post-COVID-19 patients in Ternopil region (Ukraine). The recruitment period was from July 2020 to December 2021. Medical records, treatment modalities, and outcomes were recorded and analyzed. The serum human ACE2 protein was measured with Cusabio ELISA kits (Houston, TX, USA). Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS21.0 software (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). The level of the ACE2 serum protein was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in patients with mild symptoms compared to a more severe course of the disease, and inversely had changed from 1 to 90 days after recovery. In patients with mild COVID-19, ACE2 levels significantly decreased over time, while among critical patients, it increased by 34.1 percent. Such results could be explained by ACE2 shedding from tissues into circulation. Loss of the membrane-bound form of the enzyme decreases the virus’ entry into cells. Our studies did not identify a sex-related ACE2 serum level correlation. The most common comorbidities were hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and diabetes mellitus. All abovementioned comorbidities except respiratory diseases contribute to the severity of the disease and correlate with ACE2 blood serum levels.
Cocrystal of Codeine and Cyclopentobarbital
Authors: Gelbrich Thomas , Schinke Jascha , Griesser Ulrich J.
Published: September 2023

The two-component compound formed by codeine and cyclopentobarbital was produced using grinding techniques and through evaporation from alcoholic solutions. The cocrystal nature of this phase was established unequivocally through single crystal X-ray structure determination. The asymmetric unit contains one formula unit. In the cyclopentobarbital molecule, the cyclopentenyl ring is disordered over two positions related by a rotation of approximately 180° about its C—C bond to the pyrimidine ring. The two NH groups of the cyclopentobarbital molecule form N—H⋯N and N—H⋯O bonds to piperidine and hydroxyl groups, respectively, belonging to different codeine molecules. In addition, the hydroxyl and methoxy groups of neighboring codeine molecules are linked by O—H⋯O interactions, resulting in a H-bonded framework structure of codeine and cyclopentobarbital molecules. The cocrystal was also characterized using thermal analysis, X-ray powder diffraction and IR spectroscopy.
Special Issue: Bioactive Materials for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Wichniarek Radosław
Published: September 2023

The Special Issue, entitled “Bioactive Materials for Additive Manufacturing”, aims to cover cutting-edge research regarding the production, characterization and application of bioactive materials that can be processed using additive manufacturing technology [...]
Advanced Fabrication Method and Mechanical Properties of Silicon Nitride/Boron Nitride Fibrous Monolithic Ceramics
Authors: Chen Qingqing , Zhang Yuan , Chao Liuxin , Dong Ningning , Zhou Yu , Ying Guobing
Published: September 2023

Silicon nitride ceramics are regarded as a promising material for high-temperature structural applications due to their remarkable characteristics, including high strength, hardness, thermal conductivity, low dielectric properties, and resistance to creep at elevated temperatures. However, their susceptibility to catastrophic fracture at high temperatures remains a concern. Herein, Si3N4/BN fibrous monolithic ceramics have been successfully prepared by employing wet-spinning and hot-pressing techniques. We delved into the design and optimization of the spinning slurry and examined how the Si3N4/BN fiber diameter affects the ceramics’ microstructure and mechanical properties. The spinning slurry exhibited exceptional stability and spinnability. Decreasing the fiber diameter contributed to material densification and improved mechanical properties. Notably, when the fiber diameter is 0.9 mm, the fabricated Si3N4/BN fibrous monolithic ceramics demonstrate a carbon content of 0.82%, a three-point bending strength of 357 ± 24 MPa, and a fracture toughness of 8.8 ± 0.36 MPa·m1/2. This investigation offers valuable insights into producing high-performance Si3N4/BN composite ceramics utilizing hot-pressing technology.
Comparison of the Efficiency of Hetero- and Homogeneous Catalysts in Cellulose Liquefaction
Authors: Kosmela Paulina , Kazimierski Paweł
Published: September 2023

Biomass liquefaction is a well-known and extensively described process. Hydrothermal processes are well understood and can be used in the fuel industry. The use of organic solvents can result in full-fledged products for use in the synthesis of polyurethanes. The plastics industry, including polyurethanes, is targeting new, more environmentally friendly solutions. One of these is the replacement of petrochemical polyols with compounds obtained from renewable sources. It is common in biomass liquefaction to use sulfuric acid (VI) as a catalyst. The purpose of the present study was to test the effectiveness of a heterogeneous catalyst such as Nafion ion-exchange resin on the cellulose liquefaction process. The results obtained were compared with the bio-polyols obtained in a conventional way, using a homogeneous catalyst (sulfuric acid (VI)). Depending on the catalyst used and the temperature of the process, bio-polyols characterized, among other things, by a hydroxyl number in the range of 740–400 mgKOH/g were obtained. The research provides new information on the possibility of using heterogeneous catalysts in cellulose liquefaction.
Mechanical and Surface Characteristics of Selective Laser Melting-Manufactured Dental Prostheses in Different Processing Stages
Authors: Moraru Edgar , Stoica Alina-Maria , Donțu Octavian , Cănănău Sorin , Stoica Nicolae-Alexandru , Constantin Victor , Cioboată Daniela-Doina , Bădiță-Voicu Liliana-Laura
Published: September 2023

Due to the expansion of the use of powder bed fusion metal additive technologies in the medical field, especially for the realization of dental prostheses, in this paper, the authors propose a comparative experimental study of the mechanical characteristics and the state of their microscale surfaces. The comparison was made from material considerations starting from two dental alloys commonly used to realize dental prostheses: Ni-Cr and Co-Cr, but also technologies for obtaining selective laser melting (SLM) and conventional casting. In addition, to compare the performances with the classical casting technology, for the dental prostheses obtained through SLM, the post-processing stage in which they are in a preliminary finishing and polished state was considered. Therefore, for the determination of important mechanical characteristics and the comparative study of dental prostheses, the indentation test was used, after which the hardness, penetration depths (maximum, permanent, and contact depth), contact stiffness, and contact surface were established, and for the determination of the microtopography of the surfaces, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used, obtaining the local areal roughness parameters at the miniaturized scale—surface average roughness, root-mean-square roughness (RMS), and peak-to-peak values. Following the research carried out, several interesting conclusions were drawn, and the superiority of the SLM technology over the classic casting method for the production of dental prostheses in terms of some mechanical properties was highlighted. At the same time, the degree of finishing of dental prostheses made by SLM has a significant impact on the mechanical characteristics and especially the local roughness parameters on a miniaturized scale, and if we consider the same degree of finishing, no major differences are observed in the roughness parameters of the surfaces of the prostheses produced by different technologies.
Predicting the Temperature-Dependent Long-Term Creep Mechanical Response of Silica Sand-Textured Geomembrane Interfaces Based on Physical Tests and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Chao Zhiming , Wang Haoyu , Hu Hanwen , Ding Tianchen , Zhang Ye
Published: September 2023

Preciously assessing the creep mechanical response of sand–geomembrane interfaces is vital for the design of relevant engineering applications, which is inevitable to be influenced by temperature and stress statuses. In this paper, based on the self-developed temperature-controlled large interface shear apparatus, a series of long-term creep shear tests on textured geomembrane–silica sand interfaces in different temperatures, normal pressure, and creep shear pressure were conducted, and a database compiled from the physical creep shear test results is constructed. By adopting the database, three disparate machine learning algorithms of the Back Propagation Artificial Neural Network (BPANN), the Support Vector Machine (SVM) and the Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) were adopted to assess the long-term creep mechanical properties of sand–geomembrane interfaces while also considering the influence of temperature. Then, the forecasting results of the different algorithms was compared and analyzed. Furthermore, by using the optimal machine learning model, sensitivity analysis was carried out. The research indicated that the BPANN model has the best forecasting performance according to the statistics criteria of the Root-Mean-Square Error, the Correlation Coefficient, Wilmot’s Index of Agreement, and the Mean Absolute Percentage Error among the developed models. Temperature is the most important influence factor on the creep interface mechanical properties, followed with time. The research findings can support the operating safety of the related engineering facilities installed with the geomembrane.
Effect of Repressing Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramics on The Shear Bond Strength of Resin Cements
Authors: Abu Haimed Tariq S. , Alzahrani Saeed J. , Attar Esraa A. , AL-Turki Lulwa E.
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of repeated pressing of lithium disilicate ceramic on the shear bond strength (SBS) of three types of resin cement. Methodology: A lithium disilicate ceramic (IPS e.max® Press) was first heat-pressed to form rectangular disk specimens. Then, leftovers were used for the second and third presses. A total of 90 specimens were prepared and separated, according to the number of pressing cycles, into three groups: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd presses (n = 30). Each group was further subdivided into three groups (n = 10) according to the type of resin cement used, as follows: Multilink N (MN), Variolink Esthetic DC (VDC), and Variolink Esthetic LC (VLC). All the cement was bonded to the ceramic surface, which was etched with hydrofluoric acid and primed with Monobond Plus. All samples were light-cured and stored for 24 h. Shear bond strength was tested on a universal testing machine. Results: A two-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the influence of repeated pressing cycles and cement type as well as their interaction. The results indicated that cement type has a significant impact (p < 0.001) but not the number of pressing cycles (p = 0.970) or their interaction (p = 0.836). The Bonferroni post-hoc test showed that the SBS of MN was significantly higher than that of VDC and VLC in the first press and second press cycles, respectively. The SBS of MN was significantly higher than that of VDC and VLC cements in the third pressing cycle. There was no significant difference in the SBS between VLC and VDC in all three pressing cycles. Conclusion: The results of the current study did not report a detrimental effect of repeated pressing up to three cycles on the shear bond strength of the IPS e.max® Press. Multilink resin cement showed the highest SBS to IPS e.max® Press at the third pressing cycle. For all types of cement and heat pressing cycles, the majority of cement failures were adhesive. No cohesive failures occurred in any of the tested resin cements, regardless of the cement type or the number of heat pressing cycles tested.
Surface-Induced Electronic and Vibrational Level Shifting of [Fe(py)2bpym(NCS)2] on Al(100)
Authors: Zhang Yachao
Published: September 2023

It is essential that one understands how the surface degrees of freedom influence molecular spin switching to successfully integrate spin crossover (SCO) molecules into devices. This study uses density functional theory calculations to investigate how spin state energetics and molecular vibrations change in a Fe(II) SCO compound named [Fe(py)2bpym(NCS)2] when deposited on an Al(100) surface. The calculations consider an environment-dependent U to assess the local Coulomb correlation of 3d electrons. The results show that the adsorption configurations heavily affect the spin state splitting, which increases by 10–40 kJmol−1 on the surface, and this is detrimental to spin conversion. This effect is due to the surface binding energy variation across the spin transition. The preference for the low-spin state originates partly from the strong correlation effect. Furthermore, the surface environment constrains the vibrational entropy difference, which decreases by 8–17 Jmol−1K−1 (at 300 K) and leads to higher critical temperatures. These results suggest that the electronic energy splitting and vibrational level shifting are suitable features for characterizing the spin transition process on surfaces, and they can provide access to high-throughput screening of spin crossover devices.
Viscosity Measurement of CO2–Solvent Mixtures for the Study of the Morphology and Size of Crystalline Particles Obtained Using Supercritical Antisolvent Precipitation
Authors: Vorobei Anton M. , Kostenko Mikhail O. , Parenago Olga O.
Published: September 2023

The viscosity values of CO2–dimethylphormamide, chloroform, methanol, isopropanol, ethyl acetate, acetone, and dimethyl sulfoxide mixtures were measured at a pressure of 150 bar and a temperature of 313 K. The correlation of the mean size of levofloxacin hydrochloride and malonic acid particles precipitated using the SAS method with the viscosity of the used CO2–solvent mixtures is shown. The high viscosity of the mixtures leads to slower mixing of the solution and the antisolvent. Therefore, crystallization occurs at large fractions of the solvent, and as a consequence at a lower supersaturation. This causes the formation of larger particles when using more viscous solvents in SAS.
Computational Exploration of Phenolic Compounds in Corrosion Inhibition: A Case Study of Hydroxytyrosol and Tyrosol
Authors: Lgaz Hassane , Lee Han-seung
Published: September 2023

The corrosion of materials remains a critical challenge with significant economic and infrastructural impacts. A comprehensive understanding of adsorption characteristics of phytochemicals can facilitate the effective design of high-performing environmentally friendly inhibitors. This study conducted a computational exploration of hydroxytyrosol (HTR) and tyrosol (TRS) (potent phenolic compounds found in olive leaf extracts), focusing on their adsorption and reactivity on iron surfaces. Utilizing self-consistent-charge density-functional tight-binding (SCC-DFTB) simulations, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and quantum chemical calculations (QCCs), we investigated the molecules’ structural and electronic attributes and interactions with iron surfaces. The SCC-DFTB results highlighted that HTR and TRS coordinated with iron atoms when adsorbed individually, but only HTR maintained bonding when adsorbed alongside TRS. At their individual adsorption, HTR and TRS had interaction energies of −1.874 and −1.598 eV, which became more negative when put together (−1.976 eV). The MD simulations revealed parallel adsorption under aqueous and vacuum conditions, with HTR demonstrating higher adsorption energy. The analysis of quantum chemical parameters, including global and local reactivity descriptors, offered crucial insights into molecular reactivity, stability, and interaction-prone atomic sites. QCCs revealed that the fraction of transferred electron ∆N aligned with SCC-DFTB results, while other parameters of purely isolated molecules failed to predict the same. These findings pave the way for potential advancements in anticorrosion strategies leveraging phenolic compounds.
Trash to Treasure: An Up-to-Date Understanding of the Valorization of Seafood By-Products, Targeting the Major Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Roy Vikash Chandra , Islam Md. Rakibul , Sadia Sultana , Yeasmin Momota , Park Jin-Seok , Lee Hee-Jeong , Chun Byung-Soo
Published: September 2023

Fishery production is exponentially growing, and its by-products negatively impact industries’ economic and environmental status. The large amount of bioactive micro- and macromolecules in fishery by-products, including lipids, proteins, peptides, amino acids, vitamins, carotenoids, enzymes, collagen, gelatin, chitin, chitosan, and fucoidan, need to be utilized through effective strategies and proper management. Due to the bioactive and healthy compounds in fishery discards, these components can be used as functional food ingredients. Fishery discards have inorganic or organic value to add to or implement in various sectors (such as the agriculture, medical, and pharmaceutical industries). However, the best use of these postharvest raw materials for human welfare remains unelucidated in the scientific community. This review article describes the most useful techniques and methods, such as obtaining proteins and peptides, fatty acids, enzymes, minerals, and carotenoids, as well as collagen, gelatin, and polysaccharides such as chitin–chitosan and fucoidan, to ensure the best use of fishery discards. Marine-derived bioactive compounds have biological activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. These high-value compounds are used in various industrial sectors, such as the food and cosmetic industries, owing to their unique functional and characteristic structures. This study aimed to determine the gap between misused fishery discards and their effects on the environment and create awareness for the complete valorization of fishery discards, targeting a sustainable world.