bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxygen-Ion and Proton Transport of Origin and Ca-Doped La2ZnNdO5.5 Materials
Authors: Belova Ksenia , Egorova Anastasia , Pachina Svetlana , Animitsa Irina , Medvedev Dmitry
Published: May 2023

Oxygen-ionic and proton-conducting oxides are widely studied materials for their application in various electrochemical devices such as solid oxide fuel cells and electrolyzers. Rare earth oxides are known as a class of ionic conductors. In this paper, La2ZnNdO5.5 and its Ca-doped derivatives La2Nd0.9Ca0.1ZnO5.45 and La2ZnNd0.9Ca0.1O5.45 were obtained by a solid-state reaction route. Phase composition, lattice parameters, and hydration capability were investigated by X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analyses. The conductivities of these materials were measured by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique in dry (pH2O = 3.5 × 10−5 atm) and wet (pH2O = 2 × 10−2 atm) air. All phases crystallized in a trigonal symmetry with P3m1 space group. The conductivity difference between undoped and calcium-doped samples is more than two orders of magnitude due to the appearance of oxygen vacancies during acceptor doping, which are responsible for a higher ionic conductivity. The La2Nd0.9Ca0.1ZnO5.45 sample shows the highest conductivity of about 10−3 S∙cm−1 at 650 °C. The Ca-doped phases are capable of reversible water uptake, confirming their proton-conducting nature.
Graphene-Based Electrochemical Nano-Biosensors for Detection of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Sengupta Joydip , Hussain Chaudhery Mustansar
Published: May 2023

COVID-19, a viral respiratory illness, is caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which was first identified in Wuhan, China, in 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide. Testing and isolation were essential to control the virus’s transmission due to the severity of the disease. In this context, there is a global interest in the feasibility of employing nano-biosensors, especially those using graphene as a key material, for the real-time detection of the virus. The exceptional properties of graphene and the outstanding performance of nano-biosensors in identifying various viruses prompted a feasibility check on this technology. This paper focuses on the recent advances in using graphene-based electrochemical biosensors for sensing the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Specifically, it reviews various types of electrochemical biosensors, including amperometric, potentiometric, and impedimetric biosensors, and discusses the current challenges associated with biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 detection. The conclusion of this review discusses future directions in the field of electrochemical biosensors for SARS-CoV-2 detection, underscoring the importance of continued research and development in this domain.
Evaluation of Transgenerational Effects of Sublethal Imidacloprid and Diversity of Symbiotic Bacteria on Acyrthosiphon gossypii
Authors: Wei Yindi , Su Yue , Han Xu , Guo Weifeng , Zhu Yue , Yao Yongsheng
Published: May 2023

Symbiotic bacteria and hormesis in aphids are the driving forces for pesticide resistance. However, the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the effects of imidacloprid on the population growth parameters and symbiotic bacterial communities of three successive generations of Acyrthosiphon gossypii were investigated. The bioassay results showed that imidacloprid had high toxicity to A. gossypii with an LC50 of 1.46 mg·L−1. The fecundity and longevity of the G0 generation of A. gossypii decreased when exposed to the LC15 of imidacloprid. The net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (rm), finite rate of increase (λ), and total reproductive rate (GRR) of G1 and G2 offspring were significantly increased, but those of the control and G3 offspring were not. In addition, sequencing data showed that the symbiotic bacteria of A. gossypii mainly belonged to Proteobacteria, with a relative abundance of 98.68%. The dominant genera of the symbiotic bacterial community were Buchnera and Arsenophonus. After treatment with the LC15 of imidacloprid, the diversity and species number of bacterial communities of A. gossypii decreased for G1–G3 and the abundance of Candidatus-Hamiltonella decreased, but Buchnera increased. These results provide insight into the resistance mechanism of insecticides and the stress adaptation between symbiotic bacteria and aphids.
A Novel Nitrogen-Fixing Bacterium Raoultella electrica Isolated from the Midgut of the Leafhopper Recilia dorsalis
Authors: Huang Qiuyan , Feng Yilu , Shan Hong-Wei , Chen Jian-Ping , Wu Wei
Published: May 2023

Nitrogen is a crucial element for the growth and development of insects, but herbivorous insects often suffer from nitrogen nutrition deficiencies in their diets. Some symbiotic microorganisms can provide insect hosts with nitrogen nutrition through nitrogen fixation. Extensive research has clearly demonstrated the process of nitrogen fixation by symbiotic microorganisms in termites, while evidence supporting the occurrence and significance of nitrogen fixation in the diets of the Hemiptera is less conclusive. In this study, we isolated a strain of R. electrica from the digestive tract of a leafhopper, R. dorsalis, and found that it had nitrogen-fixing capabilities. Fluorescence in situ hybridization results showed that it was located in the gut of the leafhopper. Genome sequencing revealed that R. electrica possessed all the genes required for nitrogen fixation. We further evaluated the growth rate of R. electrica in nitrogen-containing and nitrogen-free media and measured its nitrogenase activity through an acetylene reduction assay. The findings of these studies could shed light on how gut microbes contribute to our understanding of nitrogen fixation.
The Impact of Trimethylamine N-Oxide and Coronary Microcirculatory Dysfunction on Outcomes following ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Aldujeli Ali , Patel Riddhi , Grabauskyte Ingrida , Hamadeh Anas , Lieponyte Austeja , Tatarunas Vacis , Khalifeh Hussein , Briedis Kasparas , Skipskis Vilius , Aldujeili Montazar , Jarasuniene Dalia , Rana Sumit , Unikas Ramunas , Haq Ayman
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Persistent coronary microcirculatory dysfunction (CMD) and elevated trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) levels after ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) may drive negative structural and electrical cardiac remodeling, resulting in new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) and a decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Aims: TMAO and CMD are investigated as potential predictors of new-onset AF and left ventricular remodeling following STEMI. Methods: This prospective study included STEMI patients who had primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) followed by staged PCI three months later. Cardiac ultrasound images were obtained at baseline and after 12 months to assess LVEF. Coronary flow reserve (CFR), and index of microvascular resistance (IMR) were assessed using the coronary pressure wire during the staged PCI. Microcirculatory dysfunction was defined as having an IMR value ≥25 U and CFR value <2.5 U. Results: A total of 200 patients were included in the study. Patients were categorized according to whether or not they had CMD. Neither group differed from the other with regards to known risk factors. Despite making up only 40.5% of the study population, females represented 67.4% of the CMD group p < 0.001. Similarly, CMD patients had a much higher prevalence of diabetes than those without CMD (45.7% vs. 18.2%; p < 0.001). At the one-year follow-up, the LVEF in the CMD group had decreased to significantly lower levels than those in the non-CMD group (40% vs. 50%; p < 0.001), whereas it had been higher in the CMD group at baseline (45% vs. 40%; p = 0.019). Similarly, during the follow-up, the CMD group had a greater incidence of AF (32.6% vs. 4.5%; p < 0.001). In the adjusted multivariable analysis, the IMR and TMAO were associated with increased odds of AF development (OR: 1.066, 95% CI: 1.018–1.117, p = 0.007), and (OR: 1.290, 95% CI: 1.002–1.660, p = 0.048), respectively. Similarly, elevated levels of IMR and TMAO were linked with decreased odds of LVEF improvement, while higher CFR values are related to a greater likelihood of LVEF improvement. Conclusions: CMD and elevated TMAO levels were highly prevalent three months after STEMI. Patients with CMD had an increased incidence of AF and a lower LVEF 12 months after STEMI.
The Association between Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and Ocular Surface Damage: A Retrospective Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lai Eric W. , Tai Ying-Hsuan , Wu Hsiang-Ling , Dai Ying-Xiu , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Cherng Yih-Giun , Lai Shih-Chung
Published: May 2023

Autoimmune thyroid diseases (ATDs) are potentially connected to lacrimal gland dysfunction and ocular surface disruption. This study aimed to evaluate the relationships between ATD, dry eye disease (DED), and corneal surface damage. In a matched nationwide cohort study, we used Taiwan’s National Health Insurance research database to compare the incidences of DED and corneal surface damage between subjects with and without ATD. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the ophthalmological outcomes. A total of 50,251 matched pairs with 748,961 person-years of follow-up were included for analysis. The incidence of DED was 16.37 and 8.36 per 1000 person-years in the ATD and non-ATD groups, respectively. ATDs were significantly associated with increased DED (aHR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.73–1.89, p < 0.0001). This association was generally consistent across the subgroups of age, sex, different comorbidity levels, and use of systemic corticosteroids or not. Furthermore, patients with ATD had a higher risk of corneal surface damage compared with non-ATD subjects (aHR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.19–1.44, p < 0.0001), including recurrent corneal erosions (aHR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.66–2.41, p < 0.0001) and corneal scars (aHR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.01–1.59, p = 0.0432). Other independent factors for corneal surface damage were age, sex, diabetes mellitus, Charlson Comorbidity Index scores, and use of systemic corticosteroids. Our results suggested that ATDs were associated with higher risks of DED and corneal surface damage. Considering the high prevalence of ATD, prophylactic and therapeutic strategies should be further developed to prevent irreversible vision loss in this susceptible population.
The Impact of COVID-19 Lockdowns in Germany on Mood, Attention Control, Immune Fitness, and Quality of Life of Young Adults with Self-Reported Impaired Wound Healing
Authors: Balikji Jessica , Koyun Anna , Hendriksen Pauline , Kiani Pantea , Stock Ann-Kathrin , Garssen Johan , Hoogbergen Maarten , Verster Joris
Published: May 2023

Background: Previous studies in Dutch young adults revealed that individuals with self-reported impaired wound healing reported poorer mood, increased inattention and impulsivity, poorer quality of life, and poorer immune fitness compared to healthy controls. Another study revealed that the negative impact of lockdowns during the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic was significantly more profound among the impaired wound healing group than the control group. The purpose of the current study was to replicate and extend these findings among young adults living in Germany. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional survey was conducted among N = 317 young adults living in Germany, 18–35 years old. They were allocated to the IWH group (N = 66) or the control group (N-251). Participants completed the Attention Control Scale, and mood, quality of life, and immune fitness were assessed with single-item ratings. All assessments were made for (1) the period before the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) the first lockdown period, March–May 2020, (3) the first no-lockdown period, summer 2020, (4) the second lockdown, November 2020 to May 2021, and (5) the second no-lockdown period, summer 2021. Results: The impaired wound healing group reported significantly poorer mood, quality of life, and immune fitness. The effects were evident before the pandemic. The impaired wound healing group scored significantly poorer on attention focusing, but no significant differences between the groups were found for attention shifting. During the pandemic, negative lockdown effects (i.e., further aggravation of mood and immune fitness and lower quality of life) were evident in both groups but significantly more profound in the impaired wound healing group. No differences between the groups were found for the no-lockdown periods. Conclusion: Individuals with self-reported impaired wound healing have significantly poorer mood, attention focusing, and immune fitness and report a poorer quality of life than healthy controls. The impact of COVID-19 lockdowns was significantly more profound in the impaired wound-healing group.
An Algorithm to Predict the Lack of Pregnancy after Intrauterine Insemination in Infertile Patients
Authors: Garcia-Grau Emma , Oliveira Mario , Amengual Maria , Rodriguez-Sanchez Encarna , Veraguas-Imbernon Ana , Costa Laura , Benet Jordi , Ribas-Maynou Jordi
Published: May 2023

Increasing intrauterine insemination (IUI) success rates is essential to improve the quality of care for infertile couples. Additionally, straight referral of couples with less probability of achieving a pregnancy through IUI to more complex methods such as in vitro fertilization is important to reduce costs and the time to pregnancy. The aim of the present study is to prospectively evaluate the threshold values for different parameters related to success in intrauterine insemination in order to provide better reproductive counseling to infertile couples, moreover, to generate an algorithm based on male and female parameters to predict whether the couple is suitable for achieving pregnancy using IUI. For that, one hundred ninety-seven infertile couples undergoing 409 consecutive cycles of intrauterine insemination during a two-year period were included. The first year served as a definition of the parameters and thresholds related to pregnancy achievement, while the second year was used to validate the consistency of these parameters. Subsequently, those parameters that remained consistent throughout two years were included in a generalized estimating equation model (GEE) to determine their significance in predicting pregnancy achievement. Parameters significantly associated with the lack of pregnancy through IUI and included in the GEE were (p < 0.05): (i) male age > 41 years; (ii) ejaculate sperm count < 51.79 x 106 sperm; (iii) swim-up alkaline Comet > 59%; (iv) female body mass index > 45 kg/m2; (v) duration of infertility (>84 months), and (vi) basal LH levels > 27.28 mUI/mL. The application of these limits could provide a pregnancy prognosis to couples before undergoing intrauterine insemination, therefore avoiding it in couples with low chances of success. The retrospective application of these parameters to the same cohort of patients would have increased the pregnancy rate by up to 30%.
Social Introversion Personality Trait as Predictor of Internalizing Symptoms in Female Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria
Authors: Furente Flora , Matera Emilia , Margari Lucia , Lavorato Elisabetta , Annecchini Federica , Scarascia Mugnozza Francesca , Colacicco Giuseppe , Gabellone Alessandra , Petruzzelli Maria Giuseppina
Published: May 2023

The personality trait of social introversion refers to the individual inclination toward the inner/outer world. Moreover, adolescents who experience Gender Dysphoria (GD) can be involved in relationship conflicts with family, peers, and friends and experience stigmatization and rejection from society. This leads higher distress in females which are more sensitive to this kind of feelings. This leads in them frequently developing a negative sense of well-being and low self-esteem which increases their risk of internalizing symptoms. So, the aims of this study were: (1) to investigate the presence of significant differences in Social Introversion (SI) dimensions between an assigned-female at birth (AFAB) GD group and a cisgender female group both diagnosed with a depressive disorder, (2) to verify whether the two clinical groups may be characterized by different profiles of internalizing symptoms, (3) to investigate if the SI dimensions could promote the internalizing symptomatology. Our results confirmed the presence of significantly higher score in GD sample for MMPI-SI scale and subscales and showed no significant difference in depressive profiles. Lastly, SI could promote internalizing symptomatology in AFAB underlying a link between SI and depression in this condition which should be further investigated.
Use of Daridorexant among Patients with Chronic Insomnia: A Retrospective Observational Analysis
Authors: Williams Scott G. , Rodriguez-Cué Domingo
Published: May 2023

Insomnia is the most prevalent sleep disorder, affecting millions worldwide and taking a heavy toll on patient health with significant social and economic impact. Even though there are multiple different types of insomnia medications and behavioral therapies, there are still many individuals for whom treatment remains ineffective. The objective of this retrospective study was to analyze the effectiveness of daridorexant in a cohort of chronic insomnia patients largely transitioned from GABA-A positive allosteric modulators (benzodiazepines, zolpidem or eszopiclone) or other frequently prescribed insomnia medications (including trazodone, atypical antipsychotics or tricyclic antidepressants). A total of 86 patients were treated in the course of ordinary practice and the primary analytic endpoint was the change in Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) score following ≥ 30 nights of treatment with daridorexant. Results from 80 of the 86 patients with full data (65% female, mean age 53.5 years, 18.8% with comorbid obstructive sleep apnea, 91.3% transitioned from a different medication) showed a mean improvement in ISI score of 7.0 ± 0.54 points (SEM) (p < 0.0001) from 18.0 to 11.0. Overall, 78% of the cohort demonstrated a clinically meaningful improvement as defined by at least a six-point drop in ISI. Total sleep time increased by 54 ± 1.0 min (SEM) (p < 0.0001) from 6.0 h to 6.9 h. Mean sleep latency decreased by 23.9 ± 2.4 min (SEM) (p < 0.0001) from 58.8 min to 34.9 min. Wake after sleep onset decreased by 31.6 ± 3.2 min (SEM) (p < 0.001) from 42.8 min to 11.3 min. Sleep efficiency improved by 10.5 ± 1.1% (SEM) (p < 0.0001) from 79.3% to 89.8%. No significant adverse events were noted during the study duration. Keeping in mind this study’s limitations, these data suggest that for insomnia patients with an incomplete response to current therapy, switching to daridorexant is safe and may be an effective alternative treatment.
Structural Interventions in Heart Failure: Mending a Broken Heart
Authors: Katzianer David , Albert Chonyang
Published: May 2023

Advanced heart failure is often accompanied by perturbations in cardiac chamber or valve geometries which result in worsening cardiac function and hemodynamics. Once limited to surgical procedures, recent developments in minimally invasive percutaneous techniques have demonstrated efficacy in patients with both reduced and preserved ejection fraction who are at an elevated surgical risk for perioperative events. This review highlights a subset of the interventions available in clinical practice or in development for the treatment of these valvular and structural alterations.
Efficacy and Safety of 6-Weekly versus 12-Weekly Intravenous Methylprednisolone in Moderate-to-Severe Active Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Lai Kenneth K. H. , Aljufairi Fatema Mohamed Ali Abdulla , Li Chi Lai , Ngai Amanda K. Y. , Yeung Carly S. K. , Fong Ryan H. Y. , Yip Wilson W. K. , Young Alvin L. , Pang Chi Pui , Chong Kelvin K. L.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety of 6-weekly and 12-weekly intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) regimens in moderate-to-severe, active thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) patients. Basic Procedures: Retrospective comparative study of patients who received IVMP between January 2011 and July 2021 at the Thyroid Eye Clinic, the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Outcome measures included the 7-item clinical activity score (CAS), exophthalmos, extraocular muscle motility (EOMy), marginal reflex distance (MRD), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), the requirement of additional treatment, and complications. Main findings: A total of 65 (63% (41/65) females) moderate-to-severe, active TAO patients aged 50 ± 13 (25–74) years received 6-weekly (n = 22) or 12-weekly (n = 43) IVMP. Sex, age, smoking status, and Graves’ disease status were comparable in the two groups (all p > 0.05). CAS at week 6 (p = 0.0279), 12 (p = 0.00228), and 52 (p = 0.0228) were lower at each time for the 12-weekly group. Exophthalmos improved more at week 6 (p = 0.0453) and 12 (p = 0.0347) in the 12-weekly group. The improvement of diplopia, MRD1, MRD2, and EOMy were comparable between the two groups. More patients in the 6-weekly group (p = 0.00169) required additional treatments including IVMP+/−ORT. Patients in the 6-weekly group who did not require additional treatment had a lower presenting CAS (p = 0.0193) than those who required additional treatment. The total numbers of adverse events were comparable between the two groups.
Canagliflozin Attenuates PromarkerD Diabetic Kidney Disease Risk Prediction Scores
Authors: Peters Kirsten E. , Bringans Scott D. , O’Neill Ronan S. , Lumbantobing Tasha S. C. , Lui James K. C. , Davis Timothy M. E. , Hansen Michael K. , Lipscombe Richard J.
Published: May 2023

PromarkerD is a biomarker-based blood test that predicts kidney function decline in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who may otherwise be missed by current standard of care tests. This study examined the association between canagliflozin and change in PromarkerD score (Δ score) over a three-year period in T2D participants in the CANagliflozin cardioVascular Assessment Study (CANVAS). PromarkerD scores were measured at baseline and Year 3 in 2008 participants with preserved kidney function (baseline eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2). Generalized estimating equations were used to assess the effect of canagliflozin versus placebo on PromarkerD scores. At baseline, the participants (mean age 62 years, 32% females) had a median PromarkerD score of 3.9%, with 67% of participants categorized as low risk, 14% as moderate risk, and 19% as high risk for kidney function decline. After accounting for the known acute drop in eGFR following canagliflozin initiation, there was a significant treatment-by-time interaction (p < 0.001), whereby participants on canagliflozin had decreased mean PromarkerD scores from baseline to Year 3 (Δ score: −1.0% [95% CI: −1.9%, −0.1%]; p = 0.039), while the scores of those on placebo increased over the three-year period (Δ score: 6.4% [4.9%, 7.8%]; p < 0.001). When stratified into PromarkerD risk categories, participants with high risk scores at baseline who were randomized to canagliflozin had significantly lower scores at Year 3 (Δ score: −5.6% [−8.6%, −2.5%]; p < 0.001), while those on placebo retained high scores (Δ score: 4.5% [0.3%, 8.8%]; p = 0.035). This post hoc analysis of data from CANVAS showed that canagliflozin significantly lowered PromarkerD risk scores, with the effect greatest in those T2D participants who were classified at study entry as at high risk of a subsequent decline in kidney function.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms Impact Psychosocial Function and Quality of Life in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Iaquinta Francesco , Mauro Daniele , Pantano Ilenia , Naty Saverio , Iacono Daniela , Gaggiano Emanuela , Riccio Luca , Ciccia Francesco , Grembiale Rosa , Spagnuolo Rocco
Published: May 2023

Patients with chronic Inflammatory Arthritis (IA), such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Spondyloarthritis (SpA) are more likely to experience psychosocial impairment. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are also present, especially in Spondyloarthritis. No data are available on the relationship between gut and brain manifestations and their impact on daily activities in this setting; thus, this study aimed to assess these symptoms in an IA population and identify potential associations. IA patients and a control group were enrolled. The Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Instrument System (PROMIS®) questionnaire was used to evaluate GI and psychosocial domains. The study included 389 subjects (238 controls and 151 with IA); demographic and clinical data were collected for each participant. IA patients reported both higher psychosocial and GI impairment compared with controls. The logistic regression model revealed a strong association between depression and belly pain (p = 0.035), diarrhea (p = 0.017), bloating (p = 0.018), and reflux (p = 0.01); anxiety was associated with belly pain (p = 0.004), diarrhea (p = 0.019), swallowing alterations (p = 0.004), flatulence (p < 0.001) and reflux (p = 0.008). Moreover, fatigue, sleep disorders, and pain interference were associated with almost all GI symptoms, whereas high physical function scores and satisfaction in social roles decreased the odds of most GI symptoms. IA patients had more significant impairment in both dimensions compared with controls. To address reported symptoms and improve the overall quality of life in rheumatologic patients, a new holistic approach is required.
Design of Spherical Gel-Based Magnetic Composites: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Shabadrov Pavel A. , Safronov Alexander P. , Kurilova Nadezhda M. , Blyakhman Felix A.
Published: May 2023

The purpose of the study was the synthesis and the physicochemical characterization of spherical beads of magnetically active composite ferrogels (FGs) with diameters of 2–3 mm for further application to the needs of targeted drug delivery and/or replacement therapy. Spherical FGs based on a physical network of calcium alginate (CaAlg), a chemical network of polyacrylamide (PAAm), and a combined network of calcium alginate and polyacrylamide (PAAm/CaAlg) were analyzed. FGs were filled with γ-Fe2O3 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) obtained by using the electrical explosion of wire method. A comparative study of the swelling behavior and of the structural features of the polymeric network in CaAlg, PAAm/CaAlg, and PAAm spherical beads was performed. It was shown that the densest network was provided by a combination of chemical and physical networking in PAAm/CaAlg FGs. If the physical network were removed from FGs it resulted in a substantial increase in the average diameter and the swelling ratio of spherical beads and a decrease in the MNPs concentration in the swollen FGs by approximately two times. It was shown that irrespective of the gel composition, the embedding of maghemite nanoparticles led to an increase in the swelling ratio of the polymeric network. This indicated the absence of strong intermolecular interactions between the polymer and the filler. The results obtained might be useful for the design of magnetically active spherical FG beads of a given size and controlled physicochemical properties.
Decellularized Scaffolds of Nopal (Opuntia Ficus-indica) for Bioengineering in Regenerative Dentistry
Authors: Zamudio-Ceja Ruth Betsabe , Garcia-Contreras Rene , Chavez-Granados Patricia Alejandra , Aranda-Herrera Benjamin , Alvarado-Garnica Hugo , Jurado Carlos A. , Fischer Nicholas G.
Published: May 2023

Opuntia Ficus-indica, or nopal, is traditionally used for its medicinal properties in Mexico. This study aims to decellularize and characterize nopal (Opuntia Ficus-indica) scaffolds, assess their degradation and the proliferation of hDPSC, and determine potential pro-inflammatory effects by assessing the expression of cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX-1 and 2). The scaffolds were decellularized using a 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solution and confirmed by color, optical microscopy, and SEM. The degradation rates and mechanical properties of the scaffolds were determined by weight and solution absorbances using trypsin and PBS and tensile strength testing. Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) primary cells were used for scaffold–cell interaction and proliferation assays, as well as an MTT assay to determine proliferation. Proinflammatory protein expression of COX-I and -II was discovered by Western blot assay, and the cultures were induced into a pro-inflammatory state with interleukin 1-β. The nopal scaffolds exhibited a porous structure with an average pore size of 252 ± 77 μm. The decellularized scaffolds showed a 57% reduction in weight loss during hydrolytic degradation and a 70% reduction during enzymatic degradation. There was no difference in tensile strengths between native and decellularized scaffolds (12.5 ± 1 and 11.8 ± 0.5 MPa). Furthermore, hDPSCs showed a significant increase in cell viability of 95% and 106% at 168 h for native and decellularized scaffolds, respectively. The combination of the scaffold and hDPSCs did not cause an increase in the expression of COX-1 and COX-2 proteins. However, when the combination was exposed to IL-1β, there was an increase in the expression of COX-2. This study demonstrates the potential application of nopal scaffolds in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine or dentistry, owing to their structural characteristics, degradation properties, mechanical properties, ability to induce cell proliferation, and lack of enhancement of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Cell Responses to Calcium- and Protein-Conditioned Titanium: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Zhi Qiang , Zhang Yuehua , Wei Jianxu , Lv Xiaolei , Qiao Shichong , Lai Hongchang
Published: May 2023

Dental implants have become the leading choice for patients who lose teeth; however, dental implantation is challenged by peri-implant infections. Here, calcium-doped titanium was fabricated by the combinational use of thermal evaporation and electron beam evaporation in a vacuum; then, the material was immersed in a calcium-free phosphate-buffered saline solution containing human plasma fibrinogen and incubated at 37 °C for 1 h, creating calcium- and protein-conditioned titanium. The titanium contained 12.8 ± 1.8 at.% of calcium, which made the material more hydrophilic. Calcium release by the material during protein conditioning was able to change the conformation of the adsorbed fibrinogen, which acted against the colonization of peri-implantitis-associated pathogens (Streptococcus mutans, UA 159, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, ATCC 33277), while supporting the adhesion and growth of human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs). The present study confirms that the combination of calcium-doping and fibrinogen-conditioning is a promising pathway to meeting the clinical demand for suppressing peri-implantitis.
High Diversity of Fusarium Species in Onychomycosis: Clinical Presentations, Molecular Identification, and Antifungal Susceptibility
Authors: Lu Lai-Ying , Ou Jie-Hao , Hui Rosaline Chung-Yee , Chuang Ya-Hui , Fan Yun-Chen , Sun Pei-Lun
Published: May 2023

Fusarium are uncommon but important pathogenic organisms; they cause non-dermatophyte mould (NDM) onychomycosis. Patients typically respond poorly to treatment owing to Fusarium’s native resistance to multiple antifungal drugs. However, epidemiological data for Fusarium onychomycosis are lacking in Taiwan. We retrospectively reviewed the data of 84 patients with positive Fusarium nail sample cultures at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch between 2014 and 2020. We aimed to investigate the clinical presentations, microscopic and pathological characteristics, antifungal susceptibility, and species diversity of Fusarium in patients with Fusarium onychomycosis. We enrolled 29 patients using the six-parameter criteria for NDM onychomycosis to determine the clinical significance of Fusarium in these patients. All isolates were subjected to species identification by sequences and molecular phylogeny. A total of 47 Fusarium strains belonging to 13 species in four different Fusarium species complexes (with Fusarium keratoplasticum predominating) were isolated from 29 patients. Six types of histopathology findings were specific to Fusarium onychomycosis, which may be useful for differentiating dermatophytes from NDMs. The results of drug susceptibility testing showed high variation among species complexes, and efinaconazole, lanoconazole, and luliconazole showed excellent in vitro activity for the most part. This study’s primary limitation was its single-centre retrospective design. Our study showed a high diversity of Fusarium species in diseased nails. Fusarium onychomycosis has clinical and pathological features distinct from those of dermatophyte onychomycosis. Thus, careful diagnosis and proper pathogen identification are essential in the management of NDM onychomycosis caused by Fusarium sp.
Child–Pugh Class and Not Thrombocytopenia Impacts the Risk of Complications of Endoscopic Band Ligation in Patients with Cirrhosis and High Risk Varices
Authors: Di Martino Vincenzo , Simone Fabio , Grasso Maria , Abdel-Hadi Yasmin , Peralta Marco , Veneziano Marzia , Lombardo Antonino , Peralta Sergio , Calvaruso Vincenza
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims: Endoscopic band legation (EBL) is an effective method for the prophylaxis of acute variceal bleeding (AVB). This procedure may be associated with several complications, particularly bleeding. Our analysis aimed to evaluate the risk of complications due to EBL in a cohort of patients who underwent EBL for the prophylaxis of variceal bleeding and the eventual presence of risk predictors. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analysed data from consecutive patients who underwent EBL in a primary prophylaxis regimen. For all patients, simultaneously with EBL, we recorded the Child–Pugh and MELD score, platelet count and US features of portal hypertension. Results: We collected data from 431 patients who performed a total of 1028 EBLs. We recorded 86 events (8.4% of all procedures). Bleeding after EBL occurred 64 times (6.2% of all procedures), with the following distribution: intraprocedural bleeding in 4%; hematocystis formation in 17 cases (1.7%); 6 events (0.6%) of AVB due to post-EBL ulcers. None of these events presented a correlation with platelet count (84,235 ± 54,175 × 103/mL vs. 77,804 ± 75,949 × 103/mL; p = 0.70) or with the condition of severe thrombocitopenia established at PLT < 50,000/mmc (22.7% with PLT ≤ 50,000/mmc vs. 15.9% with PLT ≥ 50,000/mmc; p = 0.39). Our results showed a relationship between cumulative complications of EBL and Child–Pugh score (6.9 ± 1.6 vs. 6.5 ± 1.3; p = 0.043). Conclusions: EBL in cirrhotic patients is a safe procedure. The risk of adverse events depends on the severity of liver disease, without a relationship with platelet count.
Expression, Prognostic Value and Correlation with HPV Status of Hypoxia-Induced Markers in Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Vinciguerra Alessandro , Bedarida Vincent , Pronier Charlotte , El Zein Sophie , Wassef Michel , Atallah Sarah , Chatelet Florian , Molher Joffrey , Manivet Philippe , Herman Philippe , Adle-Biassette Homa , Verillaud Benjamin
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, tumor hypoxia has been associated with radio/chemoresistance and poor prognosis, whereas human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive status has a positive impact on treatment response and survival outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression and the potential prognostic value of hypoxia-induced endogenous markers in patients treated for squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (SNSCC), and their correlation with HPV status. (2) Methods: In this monocentric study, patients treated in a curative intent for a SNSCC were screened retrospectively. Protein expression of CA-IX, GLUT-1, VEGF, VEGF-R1, and HIF-1α was determined by immunohistochemical staining, scored, and then correlated with overall survival (OS) and locoregional recurrence free survival (LRRFS). HPV status was assessed and correlated with hypoxic markers. (3) Results: 40 patients were included. A strong expression of CA-IX, GLUT-1, VEGF, and VEGF-R1 was detected in 30%, 32.5%, 50%, and 37.5% of cases, respectively. HIF-1α was detected in 27.5% of cases. High CA-IX expression was associated in univariate analysis with poor OS (p = 0.035), but there was no significant association between GLUT-1, VEGF, VEGF-R1, and HIF-1α expression, and OS/LRRFS. There was no correlation found between HPV status and hypoxia-induced endogenous markers (all p > 0.05). (4) Conclusions: This study provides data on the expression of hypoxia-induced endogenous markers in patients treated for SNSCC and underlines the potential role of CA-IX as a prognostic biomarker for SNSCC.
Stroke in Young Adults in Spain: Epidemiology and Risk Factors by Age
Authors: Amaya Pascasio Laura , Blanco Ruiz Marina , Milán Pinilla Rodrigo , García Torrecillas Juan Manuel , Arjona Padillo Antonio , Del Toro Pérez Cristina , Martínez-Sánchez Patricia
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Recent research has highlighted an increased incidence of ischemic stroke (IS) in young adults, along with a higher percentage of vascular risk factors at younger ages. This study aimed to estimate the in-hospital incidence of IS and associated comorbidities by sex and age group in Spain. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the Spain Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from 2016 to 2019 was conducted, which included adult patients with IS. In-hospital incidence and mortality rates were estimated, and a descriptive analysis of the main comorbidities was performed, stratified by sex and age groups. Results: A total of 186,487 patients were included, with a median age of 77 (IQR 66–85) years and 53.3% were male. Of these, 9162 (5%) were aged between 18 and 50 years. The estimated incidence of IS in adults younger than 50 years ranged from 11.9 to 13.5 per 100,000 inhabitants during the study period, with a higher incidence in men. The overall in-hospital mortality was 12.6%. Young adults with IS had a higher prevalence of most vascular risk factors compared to the general Spanish population, with a specific distribution according to sex and age. Conclusions: This study provides estimates of the incidence of IS and the prevalence of vascular risk factors and comorbidities associated with IS in Spain, stratified by sex and age, using a national registry of hospital admissions. These findings should be considered in terms of both primary and secondary prevention strategies.
Comprehensive Analysis of Purine-Metabolism-Related Gene Signature for Predicting Ovarian Cancer Prognosis, Immune Landscape, and Potential Treatment Options
Authors: Liu Jingchun , Zhang Xiaoyi , Wang Haoyu , Zuo Xiaohu , Hong Li
Published: May 2023

Purine metabolism is an important branch of metabolic reprogramming and has received increasing attention in cancer research. Ovarian cancer is an extremely dangerous gynecologic malignancy for which there are no adequate tools to predict prognostic risk. Here, we identified a prognostic signature consisting of nine genes related to purine metabolism, including ACSM1, CACNA1C, EPHA4, TPM3, PDIA4, JUNB, EXOSC4, TRPM2, and CXCL9. The risk groups defined by the signature are able to distinguish the prognostic risk and the immune landscape of patients. In particular, the risk scores offer promising personalized drug options. By combining risk scores with clinical characteristics, we have created a more detailed composite nomogram that allows for a more complete and individualized prediction of prognosis. In addition, we demonstrated metabolic differences between platinum-resistant and platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer cells. In summary, we have performed the first comprehensive analysis of genes related to purine metabolism in ovarian cancer patients and created a feasible prognostic signature that will aid in risk prediction and support personalized medicine.
Frozen Elephant Trunk for Aortic Dissection Using Different Hybrid Grafts: Preliminary Results from a Prospective Study
Authors: Kozlov Boris , Panfilov Dmitri , Lukinov Vitaliy
Published: May 2023

Background. The frozen elephant trunk technique has become popular and led to an expansion of indications for surgery. Various hybrid grafts for the frozen elephant trunk are used, sometimes with significantly different features. The objective of this study was to compare early- and mid-term outcomes after the frozen elephant trunk for aortic dissection using different hybrid grafts. Methods. The prospective study included 45 patients with acute/chronic aortic dissections. The patients were randomized into two groups. Group 1 patients (n = 19) were implanted with a hybrid graft E-vita open plus (E-vita OP). Group 2 (n = 26) included patients who received a MedEng graft. The inclusion criteria were type A and type B acute and chronic aortic dissection. The exclusion criteria were as follows: hyperacute aortic dissection (less than 24 h), organ malperfusion, oncology, severe heart failure, stroke, and acute myocardial infarction. The primary endpoint was early- and mid-term mortality. The secondary endpoints were postoperative complications (stroke and spinal cord ischemia, myocardial infarction, respiratory failure, acute renal injury, and re-operation for bleeding). Results. The rate of stroke and spinal cord ischemia in the E-vita OP vs. MedEng groups was 11% vs. 4% (p = 0.565) and 11% vs. 0% (p = 0.173), respectively. The respiratory failure rate was comparable in both groups (p > 0.999). Acute kidney injury requiring hemodialysis and the need for re-sternotomy in the MedEng group vs. E-vita OP group was 31% vs. 16% (p = 0.309) and 15% vs. none (p = 0.126), respectively. Early mortality in the MedEng and E-vita OP groups did not differ (8% vs. 0, p = 0.501). The mid-term survival in the analyzed groups was 79% vs. 61%, (p = 0.079), respectively. Conclusions. No statistically significant differences were observed between patients receiving frozen elephant trunk with the hybrid MedEng and E-vita OP grafts in regard to early mortality and morbidity. Mid-term survival was also non-significant between analyzed groups with a trend toward more favorable mortality in the MedEng group.
Epigenetic Signatures in Hypertension
Authors: Alfonso Perez Gerardo , Delgado Martinez Victor
Published: May 2023

Clear epigenetic signatures were found in hypertensive and pre-hypertensive patients using DNA methylation data and neural networks in a classification algorithm. It is shown how by selecting an appropriate subset of CpGs it is possible to achieve a mean accuracy classification of 86% for distinguishing control and hypertensive (and pre-hypertensive) patients using only 2239 CpGs. Furthermore, it is also possible to obtain a statistically comparable model achieving an 83% mean accuracy using only 22 CpGs. Both of these approaches represent a substantial improvement over using the entire amount of available CpGs, which resulted in the neural network not generating accurate classifications. An optimization approach is followed to select the CpGs to be used as the base for a model distinguishing between hypertensive and pre-hypertensive individuals. It is shown that it is possible to find methylation signatures using machine learning techniques, which can be applied to distinguish between control (healthy) individuals, pre-hypertensive individuals and hypertensive individuals, illustrating an associated epigenetic impact. Identifying epigenetic signatures might lead to more targeted treatments for patients in the future.
Learning and Teaching of English in the Multilingual Classroom: English Teachers’ Perspectives, Practices, and Purposes
Authors: Krulatz Anna , Neokleous Georgios , Lorenz Eliane
Published: May 2023

In many educational settings, the number of multilingual students is currently rising (Singleton and Aronin 2018) [...]
Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Liver Diseases
Authors: Tamasi Viola , Németh Krisztina , Csala Miklós
Published: May 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived membrane structures that are formed by budding from the plasma membrane or originate from the endosomal system. These microparticles (100 nm–100 µm) or nanoparticles (>100 nm) can transport complex cargos to other cells and, thus, provide communication and intercellular regulation. Various cells, such as hepatocytes, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) or hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), secrete and take up EVs in the healthy liver, and the amount, size and content of these vesicles are markedly altered under pathophysiological conditions. A comprehensive knowledge of the modified EV-related processes is very important, as they are of great value as biomarkers or therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize the latest knowledge on hepatic EVs and the role they play in the homeostatic processes in the healthy liver. In addition, we discuss the characteristic changes of EVs and their potential exacerbating or ameliorating effects in certain liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD), drug induced liver injury (DILI), autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), hepatocarcinoma (HCC) and viral hepatitis.
DSC Analysis of the Effect of Cold Deformation on the Precipitation Kinetics of a Binary Cu-Sc Alloy
Authors: Henle Ramona , Dölling Julia , Prahl Ulrich , Nandi Gerrit , Zilly Andreas
Published: May 2023

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of cold deformation on the precipitation kinetics of a binary CuSc alloy containing 0.4 wt.% scandium using the experimental analysis method of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Non-deformed and 75% cross-section-reduced cold-rolled supersaturated specimens were tested in non-isothermal DSC runs at up to five different heating rates. The DSC results showed that cold rolling significantly accelerated the precipitation process in the binary alloy, leading to a decrease in the initial and peak temperatures of the exothermic reactions. The activation energies calculated with the Kissinger method indicated that the precipitation activation energy decreased with increasing cold deformation. The findings of this study provide worthy implications to further optimize the processing of Cu-Sc alloys with improved mechanical properties.
Research on Salt Corrosion Resistance of Lithium-Based Protective Coating on Mortar Substrate
Authors: Zang Jiawei , Pan Chonggen , Li Xu , Chen Keyu , Chen Danting
Published: May 2023

The present study concerns hydrophobic surface treatments with silane-based coating on concrete surfaces against external ionic transport. The nano-modification and organic–inorganic modification were carried out on it and applied to the mortar matrix and concrete matrix. Lithium-based protective coating (PC1, PC2), nano-modified coating (NC1, NC2) and organic–inorganic composite coating (OL1) were prepared. The salt erosion resistance of the mortar matrix and concrete matrix was tested, compared with the blank group and the market. The test results found that the organic–inorganic modified OL1 and LC1 coatings have the greatest influence on the chloride penetration resistance of the mortar matrix, in which the chloride penetration depth of 28 days is reduced by 73.03% and 63.83%, respectively, compared with the blank group. The rate of mass change of the blank group, PC1 and PC2 coatings, and NL1 and NL2 coatings were 0.17%, 0.08%, and 0.03%, respectively. The result demonstrated that the lithium-based coating could effectively delay the penetration rate of chloride ions and sulfates into the mortar, and the nano-modified properties could improve the salt resistance. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that coating treatment would promote the secondary hydration of cement-based materials, by reducing the content of Ca(OH)2 in hydration products of cement-based materials and producing C-S-H gel, which is conducive to strength enhancement and pore refinement. The nano-component would promote the reaction degree, while the organic–inorganic coating would have the respective advantages of the two components.