bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silver(I) Bromide Phosphines Induce Mitochondrial-Mediated Apoptosis in Malignant Human Colorectal Cells
Authors: Roberts Kim Elli , Engelbrecht Zelinda , Potgieter Kariska , Meijboom Reinout , Cronjé Marianne Jacqueline
Published: October 2023

Due to its emerging resistance to current therapies, colon cancer remains one of the most difficult types of cancer to treat. Silver, a non-invasive metal, is well-known for its antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties. Two novel silver(I) phosphine complexes, [silver(I) diphenyl-2-pyridylphosphine]Br (1) and [silver(I) is 4-(dimethylamino)phenyldiphenylphosphine]Br (2), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 13C, 31P). To assess the complexes’ potentials as antiproliferative agents, experiments were conducted on human colorectal cancer cells (HT-29) in vitro. The evaluation involved the analysis of morphological changes, the performance of an alamarBlue® proliferation assay, and the undertaking of flow cytometric analyses to detect mitochondrial alterations. Complex 1 displayed superior selectivity and significant inhibitory effects on malignant HT-29 cells while exhibiting minimal toxicity towards two non-malignant HEK-293 and MRHF cells. Moreover, after 24 h of treatment, complex 1 (IC50, 7.49 µM) demonstrated higher efficacy in inhibiting cell proliferation compared with complex 2 (IC50, 21.75 µM) and CDDP (IC50, 200.96 µM). Flow cytometric studies indicated that complex 1 induced regulated cell death, likely through mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Treatment with complex 1 induced morphological changes indicative of apoptosis, which includes membrane blebbing, PS externalization, increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane depolarization (ΔΨm). These observations suggest that complex 1 targets the mitochondria and holds promise as a novel metal-based anti-cancer therapeutic for the selective treatment of colorectal cancer.
Machine Learning Models for Predicting Personalized Tacrolimus Stable Dosages in Pediatric Renal Transplant Patients
Authors: Sánchez-Herrero Sergio , Calvet Laura , Juan Angel A.
Published: October 2023

Tacrolimus, characterized by a narrow therapeutic index, significant toxicity, adverse effects, and interindividual variability, necessitates frequent therapeutic drug monitoring and dose adjustments in renal transplant recipients. This study aimed to compare machine learning (ML) models utilizing pharmacokinetic data to predict tacrolimus blood concentration. This prediction underpins crucial dose adjustments, emphasizing patient safety. The investigation focuses on a pediatric cohort. A subset served as the derivation cohort, creating the dose-prediction algorithm, while the remaining data formed the validation cohort. The study employed various ML models, including artificial neural network, RandomForestRegressor, LGBMRegressor, XGBRegressor, AdaBoostRegressor, BaggingRegressor, ExtraTreesRegressor, KNeighborsRegressor, and support vector regression, and their performances were compared. Although all models yielded favorable fit outcomes, the ExtraTreesRegressor (ETR) exhibited superior performance. It achieved measures of −0.161 for MPE, 0.995 for AFE, 1.063 for AAFE, and 0.8 for R2, indicating accurate predictions and meeting regulatory standards. The findings underscore ML’s predictive potential, despite the limited number of samples available. To address this issue, resampling was utilized, offering a viable solution within medical datasets for developing this pioneering study to predict tacrolimus trough concentration in pediatric transplant recipients.
New PMMA-Based Hydroxyapatite/ZnFe2O4/ZnO Composite with Antibacterial Performance and Low Toxicity
Authors: Bakina Olga , Svarovskaya Natalia , Ivanova Ludmila , Glazkova Elena , Rodkevich Nikolay , Evstigneev Vladyslav , Evstigneev Maxim , Mosunov Andrey , Lerner Marat
Published: October 2023

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is the most commonly used bone void filler in orthopedic surgery. However, the biocompatibility and radiopacity of PMMA are insufficient for such applications. In addition to insufficient biocompatibility, the microbial infection of medical implants is one of the frequent causes of failure in bone reconstruction. In the present work, the preparation of a novel PMMA-based hydroxyapatite/ZnFe2O4/ZnO composite with heterophase ZnFe2O4/ZnO NPs as an antimicrobial agent was described. ZnFe2O4/ZnO nanoparticles were produced using the electrical explosion of zinc and iron twisted wires in an oxygen-containing atmosphere. This simple, highly productive, and inexpensive nanoparticle fabrication approach could be readily adapted to different applications. From the findings, the presented composite material showed significant antibacterial activity (more than 99% reduction) against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and MRSA, and 100% antifungal activity against C. albicans, as a result of the combined use of both ZnO and ZnFe2O4. The composite showed excellent biocompatibility against the sensitive fibroblast cell line 3T3. The more-than-70% cell viability was observed after 1–3 days incubation of the sample. The developed composite material could be a potential material for the fabrication of 3D-printed implants.
Transcriptomic Characterization of Copper-Binding Proteins for Predicting Prognosis in Glioma
Authors: Zeng Hao-Long , Li Huijun , Yang Qing , Li Chao-Xi
Published: October 2023

Background: Copper and copper-binding proteins are key components of tumor progression as they play important roles in tumor invasion and migration, but their associations in gliomas remain unclear. Methods: Transcriptomic datasets of glioblastoma, low-grade glioma, and normal brain cortex were derived from the TCGA and GTEX databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of copper-binding proteins were screened and used to construct a prognostic model based on COX and LASSO regression, which was further validated by the CGGA datasets. The expressions of risk-model genes were selectively confirmed via anatomic feature-based expression analysis and immunohistochemistry. The risk score was stratified by age, gender, WHO grade, IDH1 mutation, MGMT promoter methylation, and 1p/19q codeletion status, and a nomogram was constructed and validated. Results: A total of 21 DEGs of copper-binding proteins were identified and a six-gene risk-score model was constructed, consisting of ANG, F5, IL1A, LOXL1, LOXL2, and STEAP3, which accurately predicted 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates, with the AUC values of 0.87, 0.88, and 0.82, respectively. The high-risk group had a significantly shorter OS (p < 0.0001) and was associated with old age, wild-type IDH1, a high WHO grade, an unmethylated MGMT promoter, and 1p/19q non-codeletion and had higher levels of immune cell infiltration, cancer-immunity suppressor, and immune checkpoint gene expression as well as a higher TMB. Conclusions: The model based on the genes of copper-binding proteins could contribute to prognosis prediction and provide potential targets against gliomas.
The Embodied Life Cycle Global Warming Potential of Off-Site Prefabricated Concrete Products: Precast Concrete and Concrete Pile Production in Korea
Authors: Kim Hyunsik , Kim Jeonghwan , Roh Seungjun
Published: October 2023

The impacts of concrete on global warming through its use in structures such as buildings and infrastructure must be identified and better understood, as concrete is known to have a very high global warming potential (GWP). However, in contrast with ordinary on-site constructed reinforced concrete, GWPs of off-site factory-made prefabricated concrete products such as precast concrete (PC) and concrete piles that are widely used in construction are rarely evaluated, owing to the complicated manufacturing processes that make the determination of greenhouse gas emission difficult. In this study, the embodied life cycle GWPs were derived for PC and pretensioned spun high-strength concrete (PHC) piles to enable precise assessment of the global warming impact of concrete structures and the concrete industry of Korea. The determined embodied GWPs of PC and PHC piles were 1.77 × 10−1 kg CO2 eq/kg and 1.87 × 10−1 kg CO2 eq/kg, respectively. As a result, both prefabricated concrete products were determined to have high GWP due to input materials, such as cement rebars, while the GWP contributions of the off-site prefabrication processes were low. Moreover, the embodied GWPs of both prefabricated concrete products were significantly higher than those of ordinary reinforced concrete, and the impact of both products on global warming was found to be approximately 4% of the impact of the Korean concrete industry. This indicates that it is necessary to consider the impacts of the PHC pile and PC industries when assessing the impacts of greenhouse gas occurring in the concrete industry at the national level. It is expected that these findings will be widely used to obtain a more accurate assessment of the impact of concrete structures and industry on global warming.
Suitability of Modular Technology for House Construction in Sri Lanka: A Survey and a Case Study
Authors: Munmulla Thisari , Hidallana-Gamage Hasitha , Navaratnam Satheeskumar , Ponnampalam Thusiyanthan , Zhang Guomin , Jayasinghe Thishan
Published: October 2023

Prefabricated volumetric modular building construction is an emerging technology in many countries used to develop the construction industry through its value-added benefits. The adoption of these novel technologies in the Sri Lankan construction industry has been relatively slow compared with other developing countries, delaying the development of the construction industry and the attainment of the added benefits of these technologies. Therefore, this study aims to identify the suitability of modular construction for the Sri Lankan construction industry via a survey and case study. A questionnaire survey was developed and distributed to assess and identify the benefits of implementing the concepts and constraints in Sri Lanka. Then, the construction cost of a proposed single-story house delivered through conventional and modular practices was compared. The survey results showed that introducing a modular concept to the industry is suitable and would benefit the Sri Lankan construction industry. Further, survey participants believed that the economic benefits brought in by modular construction are significantly more important than environmental and social benefits when selecting modular construction. The case study on a single-story affordable modular house showed a 32% reduction in total construction costs and a 36% reduction in labour costs compared to conventional house construction. Further, costs for total modular construction and labour were 32% and 36% less than those of conventional construction costs and labour costs. Moreover, a 16% reduction in embodied energy was observed when compared with conventional construction. Therefore, the modular concept could be used to construct affordable houses and will be cost-effective with the correct choice of material.
The Construction Mechanism and Practice of Characteristic Industrial Villages from the Perspective of the “Society–Space” Relationship, Taking Zhuma Township, Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province, as an Example
Authors: Lou Senyu , Cao Rui , Zhang Tingzhen , Huang Linsheng
Published: October 2023

Zhuma Township, which is located in Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province, has a long history of camellia cultivation, holds the title of “the hometown of camellia in China”, and is an agricultural town with a strong history characterized by its camellia industry. This paper first overviews the development and application of the theory of “socio-spatial” relationships and then formulates a theoretical framework for analyzing characteristic industrial villages according to this theory. Following the study of Zhuma Township, the process of local, industry-driven rural development is divided into three periods: slow growth, rapid expansion, and orderly transition. Then, we summarize the construction mechanism of characteristic industrial villages from the four levels of social relationship reorganization, industrial value increase, local culture reshaping, and spatial order reconstruction. Finally, we present a guide to the practice of rural construction. This paper aims to provide a useful reference for the construction of characteristic industrial villages on both theoretical and practical levels.
Research on the Accumulated Pore Pressure of Expansive Soil under Subway Loading
Authors: Qing Lin , Zhu Lei , Guo Ying , Cheng Gan
Published: October 2023

Taking the expansive soil near Hefei Xinqiao International Airport as the research subject, indoor dynamic triaxial tests were conducted to investigate the influence of different loading methods on the dynamic pore pressure of saturated remolded expansive soil on the basis of maximally simulating the real characteristics of subway loading. Furthermore, the action laws of three factors, namely intermittent loading ratio, static deviator stress, and cyclic stress ratio, on the accumulated pore pressure of saturated remolded expansive soil under intermittent subway cyclic loading were analyzed. The research results indicate that the loading method significantly affects the development trend of the accumulated pore pressure. Under similar conditions, a larger intermittent loading ratio leads to smaller accumulated pore pressure values and a slower initial development rate of pore pressure under the same cycle vibration. Increasing static deviatoric stress promotes the accumulation of pore pressure. The influence of the cyclic stress ratio is dependent on the intermittent loading ratio and does not follow a consistent pattern.
The Structural Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Beams Made with Locally Produced Recycled Aggregate in the UAE
Authors: Sagheer Abdullah M. , Tabsh Sami W. , Yehia Sherif
Published: October 2023

In this study, the feasibility of utilizing locally produced coarse recycled aggregate (RA) from demolition waste in the UAE for structural applications was investigated. A comprehensive literature review on the subject showed that the shear and flexural responses of reinforced beams utilizing aggregate from concrete demolition waste are greatly dependent on the aggregate replacement ratio and the quality of the recycled aggregate. The experimental program in this study consisted of three phases. Phase I focused on the evaluation of the physical and mechanical characteristics of the RA, Phase II addressed the mix design and fresh and hard properties of the concrete, and Phase III dealt with the flexural and shear behavior of structural members. The research involved twelve 150 mm × 300 mm reinforced concrete beams with a length of 1500 mm or 2000 mm that were made with 0% (control), 50%, or 100% recycled coarse aggregate, replacing natural coarse aggregate (NA). Two target concrete compressive strengths, 25 and 35 MPa, were considered in the investigation. The results showed that the recycled aggregates had lower crushing and LA abrasion values by 40% and 18–28%, respectively, whereas the absorption capacity was 40–300% higher compared to the natural aggregate. In addition, the mechanical properties of the concrete made with different replacement ratios (R%) of RA were either similar or slightly less than those of the control mix. The shear beam tests with fc′ = 25 MPa showed that the 50%- and 100%-replacement-ratio beams demonstrated closely matched normalized shear strength values that exceeded their corresponding NA beam by 12.5%, while the shear beam tests with fc′ = 35 MPa showed that the NA beam exhibited normalized shear strength surpassing the 50% RA and 100% RA beams by 12.5% and 17.5%, respectively. In the flexural beam tests, the flexural strength exhibited minimal disparities for the beams that shared the same RA% but differed in their compressive strength targets, and overall, the variation in the RA% had a marginal impact on the flexural strength of the beams. Further, an increase in the RA% corresponded to an increase in the shear ductility index, which was in contrast with the findings on the flexural ductility index. Furthermore, predictions of flexural strength using the ACI318-19 code and shear strength using the strut-and-tie model yielded comparable results to the experimental ones.
Numerical Study on the Seismic Behavior of Steel–Concrete Composite Frame with Uplift-Restricted and Slip-Permitted (URSP) Connectors
Authors: Wu Zhenhao , Nie Xin , Zhao Jizhi , Wang Wei , Duan Linli
Published: October 2023

Uplift-restricted and slip-permitted (URSP) connectors have been demonstrated to effectively enhance the anti-cracking performance of RC slabs in negative moment areas. While their efficacy is recognized, studies of composite frames utilizing URSP connectors remain scarce, limiting their application in construction. This research undertakes a numerical analysis of the seismic performance of steel–concrete composite frames that employ URSP connectors. The influence of key design parameters on seismic behavior is scrutinized. Leveraging prior tests on composite frames with URSP connectors carried out by the authors’ group, a sophisticated three-dimensional FEM model is crafted. This model, built using the ABAQUS software (2016), accounts for the intricate mechanical behaviors of shear connectors. The fidelity of the FEM model is validated through a juxtaposition of numerical and test outcomes, assessing strain distribution, damage patterns, and load–displacement curves. This numerical model serves as a basis for the study, exploring the impacts of three crucial design parameters on structural seismic performance. The findings suggest that the arrangement length of URSP connectors should be constrained to less than half of the frame beam’s span to optimize mechanical performance during seismic events. Additionally, enhancing both the flange thickness and the steel beam’s height is recommended to further bolster structural integrity.
The Multifaceted Functions of Prion Protein (PrPC) in Cancer
Authors: Abi Nahed Roland , Safwan-Zaiter Hasan , Gemy Kevin , Lyko Camille , Boudaud Mélanie , Desseux Morgane , Marquette Christel , Barjat Tiphaine , Alfaidy Nadia , Benharouga Mohamed
Published: October 2023

The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a glycoprotein anchored to the cell surface by glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI). PrPC is expressed both in the brain and in peripheral tissues. Investigations on PrPC’s functions revealed its direct involvement in neurodegenerative and prion diseases, as well as in various physiological processes such as anti-oxidative functions, copper homeostasis, trans-membrane signaling, and cell adhesion. Recent findings have revealed the ectopic expression of PrPC in various cancers including gastric, melanoma, breast, colorectal, pancreatic, as well as rare cancers, where PrPC promotes cellular migration and invasion, tumor growth, and metastasis. Through its downstream signaling, PrPC has also been reported to be involved in resistance to chemotherapy and tumor cell apoptosis. This review summarizes the variance of expression of PrPC in different types of cancers and discusses its roles in their development and progression, as well as its use as a potential target to treat such cancers.
Hydroxamic Acids Containing a Bicyclic Pinane Backbone as Epigenetic and Metabolic Regulators: Synergizing Agents to Overcome Cisplatin Resistance
Authors: Aleksandrova Yulia , Munkuev Aldar , Mozhaitsev Evgenii , Suslov Evgeniy , Volcho Konstantin , Salakhutdinov Nariman , Neganova Margarita
Published: October 2023

Multidrug resistance is the dominant obstacle to effective chemotherapy for malignant neoplasms. It is well known that neoplastic cells use a wide range of adaptive mechanisms to form and maintain resistance against antitumor agents, which makes it urgent to identify promising therapies to solve this problem. Hydroxamic acids are biologically active compounds and in recent years have been actively considered to be potentially promising drugs of various pharmacological applications. In this paper, we synthesized a number of hydroxamic acids containing a p-substituted cinnamic acid core and bearing bicyclic pinane fragments, including derivatives of (−)-myrtenol, (+)-myrtenol and (−)-nopol, as a Cap-group. Among the synthesized compounds, the most promising hydroxamic acid was identified, containing a fragment of (−)-nopol in the Cap group 18c. This compound synergizes with cisplatin to increase its anticancer effect and overcomes cisplatin resistance, which may be associated with the inhibition of histone deacetylase 1 and glycolytic function. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the use of hydroxamic acids with a bicyclic pinane backbone can be considered to be an effective approach to the eradication of tumor cells and overcoming drug resistance in the treatment of malignant neoplasms.
R-Loops in Genome Instability and Cancer
Authors: Li Fang , Zafar Alyan , Luo Liang , Denning Ariana Maria , Gu Jun , Bennett Ansley , Yuan Fenghua , Zhang Yanbin
Published: October 2023

R-loops are unique, three-stranded nucleic acid structures that primarily form when an RNA molecule displaces one DNA strand and anneals to the complementary DNA strand in a double-stranded DNA molecule. R-loop formation can occur during natural processes, such as transcription, in which the nascent RNA molecule remains hybridized with the template DNA strand, while the non-template DNA strand is displaced. However, R-loops can also arise due to many non-natural processes, including DNA damage, dysregulation of RNA degradation pathways, and defects in RNA processing. Despite their prevalence throughout the whole genome, R-loops are predominantly found in actively transcribed gene regions, enabling R-loops to serve seemingly controversial roles. On one hand, the pathological accumulation of R-loops contributes to genome instability, a hallmark of cancer development that plays a role in tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and therapeutic resistance. On the other hand, R-loops play critical roles in regulating essential processes, such as gene expression, chromatin organization, class-switch recombination, mitochondrial DNA replication, and DNA repair. In this review, we summarize discoveries related to the formation, suppression, and removal of R-loops and their influence on genome instability, DNA repair, and oncogenic events. We have also discussed therapeutical opportunities by targeting pathological R-loops.
Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma (UTUC) Diagnosis and Risk Stratification: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bitaraf Masoud , Ghafoori Yazdi Mahmood , Amini Erfan
Published: October 2023

Diagnosis and risk stratification are cornerstones of therapeutic decisions in the management of patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Diagnostic modalities provide data that can be integrated, to provide nomograms and stratification tools to predict survival and adverse outcomes. This study reviews cytology, ureterorenoscopy and the novel tools and techniques used with it (including photodynamic diagnosis, narrow-band imaging, optical coherence tomography, and confocal laser endomicroscopy), and biopsy. Imaging modalities and novel biomarkers are discussed in another article. Patient- and tumor-related prognostic factors, their association with survival indices, and their roles in different scores and predictive tools are discussed. Patient-related factors include age, sex, ethnicity, tobacco consumption, surgical delay, sarcopenia, nutritional status, and several blood-based markers. Tumor-related prognosticators comprise stage, grade, presentation, location, multifocality, size, lymphovascular invasion, surgical margins, lymph node status, mutational landscape, architecture, histologic variants, and tumor-stroma ratio. The accuracy and validation of pre-operative predictive tools, which incorporate various prognosticators to predict the risk of muscle-invasive or non-organ confined disease, and help to decide on the surgery type (radical nephroureterectomy, or kidney-sparing procedures) are also investigated. Post-operative nomograms, which help decide on adjuvant chemotherapy and plan follow-up are explored. Finally, a revision of the current stratification of UTUC patients is endorsed.
In Vitro Antiproliferative Effect of Cannabis Extract PHEC-66 on Melanoma Cell Lines
Authors: Bachari Ava , Nassar Nazim , Telukutla Srinivasareddy , Zomer Roby , Dekiwadia Chaitali , Piva Terrence J. , Mantri Nitin
Published: October 2023

Melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early. Melanoma is widely recognized to resist advanced cancer treatments, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, kinase inhibitors, and chemotherapy. Numerous studies have shown that various Cannabis sativa extracts exhibit potential anticancer effects against different types of tumours both in vitro and in vivo. This study is the first to report that PHEC-66, a Cannabis sativa extract, displays antiproliferative effects against MM418-C1, MM329 and MM96L melanoma cells. Although these findings suggest that PHEC-66 has promising potential as a pharmacotherapeutic agent for melanoma treatment, further research is necessary to evaluate its safety, efficacy, and clinical applications.
Reappraisal of the Concept of Accelerated Aging in Neurodegeneration and Beyond
Authors: Statsenko Yauhen , Kuznetsov Nik V. , Morozova Daria , Liaonchyk Katsiaryna , Simiyu Gillian Lylian , Smetanina Darya , Kashapov Aidar , Meribout Sarah , Gorkom Klaus Neidl-Van , Hamoudi Rifat , Ismail Fatima , Ansari Suraiya Anjum , Emerald Bright Starling , Ljubisavljevic Milos
Published: October 2023

Background: Genetic and epigenetic changes, oxidative stress and inflammation influence the rate of aging, which diseases, lifestyle and environmental factors can further accelerate. In accelerated aging (AA), the biological age exceeds the chronological age. Objective: The objective of this study is to reappraise the AA concept critically, considering its weaknesses and limitations. Methods: We reviewed more than 300 recent articles dealing with the physiology of brain aging and neurodegeneration pathophysiology. Results: (1) Application of the AA concept to individual organs outside the brain is challenging as organs of different systems age at different rates. (2) There is a need to consider the deceleration of aging due to the potential use of the individual structure–functional reserves. The latter can be restored by pharmacological and/or cognitive therapy, environment, etc. (3) The AA concept lacks both standardised terminology and methodology. (4) Changes in specific molecular biomarkers (MBM) reflect aging-related processes; however, numerous MBM candidates should be validated to consolidate the AA theory. (5) The exact nature of many potential causal factors, biological outcomes and interactions between the former and the latter remain largely unclear. Conclusions: Although AA is commonly recognised as a perspective theory, it still suffers from a number of gaps and limitations that assume the necessity for an updated AA concept.
Breast and Formula Milk and Early Puberty Onset
Authors: Calcaterra Valeria , Cena Hellas , Sottotetti Francesca , Rossi Virginia , Loperfido Federica , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo
Published: October 2023

Nutrients have an enormous impact on many hormonal systems and aspects of health, and nutrition status is a crucial regulator of growth and pubertal development in children and adolescents. In this narrative review, we explore the connection between these feeding methods and the timing of puberty to provide a clearer understanding of how infant nutrition might contribute to the early development of puberty. Puberty is a key stage in the transition from childhood to adulthood and the timing of puberty represents a significant biological milestone of growth. Breast milk seems to have a pivotal role in puberty onset, mainly due to its dynamism, which shape indirectly the gut microbiota in early life, besides direct exposure of the baby to the milk microbiota through gut–breast axis. Concerning breast and formula milk and their effects on the onset of puberty, a protective role of the former occurs. As for the potential harmful effects of soy-based formulas and the isoflavones that they contain, the studies reported demonstrate conflicting opinions, underlining the need for further research on this topic. A healthy and well-nourished diet from the earliest stages of life has significant preventive potential for overall well-being, reducing the risk of many health problems later in life.
Nutritional Status of Children with Newly Diagnosed Food Allergies
Authors: Jasielska Martyna , Buczyńska Anna , Adamczyk Piotr , Grzybowska-Chlebowczyk Urszula
Published: October 2023

Background: Most published pediatric guidelines on food allergy highlight the importance of nutritional counseling and dietary adequacy to avoid either growth retardation or nutritional deficiencies. The aim of the study was an assessment of the nutritional status of children with IgE-mediated food allergies. Material and method: 45 patients with newly diagnosed food allergy (FA) and 33 healthy controls were analyzed (aged 6 to 72 months, 60.2% boys). The nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric measurements (body weight and length) and serum laboratory tests. The results were analyzed with the Statistica 12 software (Tulsa, OK, USA). Results: 82%, 40%, 8.8%, and 6.6% of the studied children demonstrated allergy to hen’s egg, cow’s milk, pork meat, and wheat/rye, respectively. Z-score BMI < −2SD was more often found in the FA subjects under 30 months of age than in the controls (p = 0.04). As many as 77.8% of the FA subjects and 78.8% of the controls were of normal height (hSDS: −0.23 ± 1.74 and −0.31 ± 1.49, respectively, p = 0.8). Retinol binding protein four serum concentration was significantly lower in the FA group (17.01 ± 3.84 mg/L) than in the controls (20.47 ± 4.87 mg/L, p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed between the FA group and the controls (either in the younger or the older age group) (p > 0.05) for the serum concentrations of total protein, total cholesterol, thyroxin-binding prealbumin (TBPA), 25(OH)D, hemoglobin level or white blood cells. Conclusions: In patients under 30 months of age, one of the symptoms of food allergy may be body weight deficiency, while short stature is less common at the time of diagnosis.
Variations in the Structural and Colloidal Stability of Magnetoferritin under the Impact of Technological Process Modulations
Authors: Balejcikova Lucia , Zolochevska Kristyna , Tomasovicova Natalia , Nagornyi Anatolii , Tomchuk Oleksandr , Petrenko Viktor I. , Garamus Vasil M. , Almasy Laszlo , Timko Milan , Kopcansky Peter
Published: October 2023

Iron-based materials, especially magnetite nanocrystals, have found extensive applications in many fields. Novel challenges focus on a deeper understanding of interactions between magnetite and biological macromolecules for developing further applications in diagnostic and treatment methods in medicine. Inspired by ferritin, the iron storage protein occurring in bacteria, plant, animal, and human cells, we developed an artificial ferritin-like material known as magnetoferritin. We present structural studies of magnetoferritin samples prepared using a controlled in vitro physicochemical synthesis. Considerable structural and size changes were observed by increasing the iron content and post-synthesis treatment. We propose the modulation of colloidal stability by using suitable solvents. Ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, colloidal stability measurements, infrared spectroscopy, and small-angle X-ray scattering methods were employed. The presented results aid in increasing the effectiveness of the various applications of magnetoferritin according to specific industrial requirements.
Synthesis and Structural Analysis of Chiral Bis-dihydro[1,3]-naphthoxazines and Imidazolidine Derivatives Prepared by Three-Component Mannich-Type Condensation
Authors: Tavlinova-Kirilova Maya , Dikova Krasimira , Marinova Maya K. , Kamenova-Nacheva Mariana , Rusew Rusi , Sbirkova-Dimitrova Hristina , Shivachev Boris , Kostova Kalina , Dimitrov Vladimir
Published: October 2023

Enantiomerically pure (S)-1-phenylethan-1-amine has been applied in Mannich-type condensation between formaldehyde and naphthalenediols leading to the synthesis of chiral bis-dihydro[1,3]naphthoxazines in excellent yields. Salen-type structures have been synthesized, applying R,R- or S,S-cyclohexane-1,2-diamines in condensation with formaldehyde and naphthalene-2-ol. The obtained chiral imidazolidine derivatives of the type 1,1′-(((3a,7a)-hexahydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-1,3(2H)diyl)bis(methylene))bis(naphthalen-2-ol) were evaluated as pre-catalysts for the addition of diethyl zinc to aldehydes. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were elucidated using 1D and 2D NMR experiments (COSY, HMBC, HSQS), elemental analysis, mass spectrometry (HRMS spectra) and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD). The products were further characterized with powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and thermal analysis (DSC).
Magnetic β-Cyclodextrin Polymer Nanoparticles for Efficient Adsorption of U(VI) from Wastewater
Authors: Zhong Xing , Lv Nan , Zhang Meicheng , Tan Yubin , Yuan Qiaozhulin , Hu Caixia , Ma Mingyang , Wu Yongchuan , Ouyang Jinbo
Published: October 2023

It is a central issue to eliminate radioactive uranium (U(VI)) efficiently from water. In this manuscript, β-cyclodextrin was cross-linked with 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-1,4-benzenedicarbonitrile, and then a carboxylation reaction was used to prepare porous cross-linked polymers rich in carboxyl groups (CA-PCDPs). Subsequently, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were loaded onto the CA-PCDPs via coprecipitation, and magnetic porous β-cyclodextrin polymer nanoparticles (CA-PCDP@MNPs) were successfully obtained, which were used for efficient elimination of U(VI) from nuclear wastewater solution. Moreover, SEM, FTIR, VSM, BET, and XRD were employed to investigate the CA-PCDP@MNP and found that it had a well-developed porous structure, high specific surface area, and abundant oxygen-containing functional groups (carboxyl, hydroxyl, C-O-C, Fe-O, etc.), providing sufficient active sites for chelating uranyl ions. Experiments illustrated that the CA-PCDP@MNP had efficient removal ability for U(VI), and the maximum theoretical adsorption amount for U(VI) reached 245.66 mg/g at pH 6.0 and 303 K. Moreover, the adsorption process was more suitable for the quasi second-order kinetic model and Langmuir adsorption isotherm model, indicating that the adsorption process was chemical adsorption. Meanwhile, the CA-PCDP@MNPs also exhibited fast response magnetic recovery ability and excellent regeneration and recycling ability. In addition, the data of the adsorption mechanism demonstrated that oxygen-containing functional groups, which were rich on the surface of CA-PCDP@MNPs, were the main binding active sites of U(VI). From the above results, it can be deduced that the CA-PCDP@MNP has a good application prospect in the practical application of nuclear wastewater treatment.
Ultrahigh-Density Superhard Hexagonal BN and SiC with Quartz Topology from Crystal Chemistry and First Principles
Authors: Matar Samir F. , Solozhenko Vladimir L.
Published: October 2023

Based on superdense C6 with a quartz (qtz) topology, new ultrahigh-density hexagonal binary phases, qtz BN and qtz SiC, were identified via full geometry structure relaxations and ground state energies using calculations based on the quantum density functional theory (DFT) with a gradient GGA exchange–correlation XC functional. Like qtz C6, with respect to diamond, the resulting binary qtz BN and qtz SiC were found to be less cohesive than cubic BN and cubic SiC, respectively, but were confirmed to be mechanically (elastic constants) and dynamically (phonon band structures) stable. Higher densities of the new phases correlate with higher hardness values compared to cubic BN and cubic SiC. In contrast to the regular tetrahedra that characterize the cubic BN and SiC phases, the corner-sharing tetrahedra in the new phases are distorted, which accounts for their exceptional density and hardness. All three qtz phases were found to be semiconducting to insulators, with reduced band gaps compared to diamond, cubic BN, and cubic SiC.
Camphor Sulfonimine Compounds: Bottom-Up Design of MOFs from Organic Frameworks Based on X-rays and DFT-D3
Authors: da Costa Joana Pais , de Carvalho Maria Fernanda Nascimento Neves , Galvão Adelino Moura
Published: October 2023

DFT-D3 calculations based on structural X-ray diffraction data obtained for 3-oxo-camphorsulfonyl imine (1), camphorsulfonyl chloride (2) and seven camphor sulfonimines (O2SNC10H13NR, L1−L7), from which L2 (R=4-OHC6H4), L4 (R=4-ClC6H4) and L6 (R=3,5-(CH3)2C6H3) are synthesized and characterized in this work, provide information into the intra- and inter-molecular interactions with concomitant elucidation of the supramolecular arrangement of the compounds. The DFT-D3 calculations performed in small clusters of two or three molecular units reproduce the interactions observed via X-ray analyses, showing that, as a general trend, the structural arrangement of the molecules is driven by electronic rather than by packing parameters. In all compounds, the self-assembly of 3D structures involves the sulfonyl imine group (-NSO2) either to establish hydrogen bonds through oxygen atoms or non-classic oxygen–aliphatic hydrogen or non-bonding interactions (NBIs), which also involve sulfonyl oxygen atoms. Interestingly, the camphor sulfonimine compounds (L2, L3), having protic groups (R=C6H4X:X=OH, L2 or X=NH2, L3) at the aromatic imine substituents (=NR), present an extra π-π stacking, which is absent in the other compounds’ aromatic derivatives. The X-ray analysis shows that all the reported camphor sulfonimine compounds display the E configuration with respect to the imine substituent (R). The study of the redox behavior of the compounds by cyclic voltammetry enables insight into the solution properties of the compounds and the rationalization of the molecular interactions that stand in the solid and solution states. Camphor sulfonimine compounds (L) display appropriate binding atoms to coordinate transition metals. The results herein show that monodentate coordination through the nitrogen atom of the sulfonimine five-membered ring to the {Ag(NO3)} metal center is favored. When this imine nitrogen atom is not itself involved in the organic framework, DFT-D3 calculations show that the complexation does not affect the non-covalent interactions that are reproduced in the MOF structure.
Four New Cases of Progressive Ataxia and Palatal Tremor (PAPT) and a Literature Review
Authors: Silimon Norbert , Wiest Roland , Bassetti Claudio L. A.
Published: October 2023

PAPT syndrome is a rare neurologic disorder characterized by progressive ataxia and palatal tremor (rhythmic movements of the soft palate). The first large study of PAPT patients was published in 2004, included a total of 28 sporadic PAPT cases, and suggested a neurodegenerative origin. In the last several years, case reports and small case series followed, underlining the heterogeneity of the clinical picture and underlying aetiology (including neurodegenerative, vascular, infectious/autoimmune, and genetic). As a contribution to the literature, we report on four new patients with PAPT syndrome from Bern. Our study highlights the diverse clinical presentation (pyramidal, extrapyramidal, bulbar, cognitive, psychiatric symptoms, and autonomic features), summarizes the known literature, and extends it by findings on sleep studies (obstructive/central sleep apnoea, sleep disturbance). Possible aetiologies and management aspects are discussed in light of the current literature.
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Glischropus bucephalus (Vespertilionidae; Chiroptera) Provides New Evidence for Pipistrellus Paraphyly
Authors: Zhukova Svetlana S. , Speranskaya Anna S. , Lisenkova Alexandra A. , Kruskop Sergei V.
Published: October 2023

The Indochinese thick-thumbed bat, Glischropus bucephalus, was described in 2011, but its molecular genetics (and the genetics of the whole genus Glischropus) are still poorly studied. We defined and annotated the complete mitogenome of Glischropus bucephalus (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) from Vietnam. The complete mitogenome is 17,023 bp in total length, which includes 13 complete protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA, and one non-coding region (the origin of replication). The nucleotide composition is 33.2% A, 29.7% T, 13.6% G, and 23.5% C. The mitochondrial protein-coding genes use the standard start codon (ATN), one complete stop codon (TAA), and two incomplete stop codons (TA- and T-). The phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the genus Glischropus belongs to the Pipistrellini tribe and revealed that Glischropus bucephalus is clustered with the “eastern” clade of Pipistrellus, supporting the paraphyletic nature of the latter genus.
Clinical and Radiological Parameters to Discriminate Tuberculous Peritonitis and Peritoneal Carcinomatosis
Authors: Jha Daya K. , Gupta Pankaj , Neelam Pardhu B. , Kumar Rajender , Krishnaraju Venkata S. , Rohilla Manish , Prasad Ajay S. , Dutta Usha , Sharma Vishal
Published: October 2023

It is challenging to differentiate between tuberculous peritonitis and peritoneal carcinomatosis due to their insidious nature and intersecting symptoms. Computed tomography (CT) is the modality of choice in evaluating diffuse peritoneal disease. We conducted an ambispective analysis of patients suspected as having tuberculous peritonitis or peritoneal tuberculosis between Jan 2020 to Dec 2021. The study aimed to identify the clinical and radiological features differentiating the two entities. We included 44 cases of tuberculous peritonitis and 45 cases of peritoneal carcinomatosis, with a median age of 31.5 (23.5–40) and 52 (46–61) years, respectively (p ≤ 0.001). Fever, past history of tuberculosis, and loss of weight were significantly associated with tuberculous peritonitis (p ≤ 0.001, p = 0.038 and p = 0.001). Pain in the abdomen and history of malignancy were significantly associated with peritoneal carcinomatosis (p = 0.038 and p ≤ 0.001). Ascites was the most common radiological finding. Loculated ascites, splenomegaly and conglomeration of lymph nodes predicted tuberculous peritonitis significantly (p ≤ 0.001, p = 0.010, p = 0.038). Focal liver lesion(s) and nodular omental involvement were significantly associated with peritoneal carcinomatosis (p = 0.011, p = 0.029). The use of clinical features in conjunction with radiological findings provide better diagnostic yields because of overlapping imaging findings.
Feasibility of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Early-Stage Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zachou Georgia , Yongue Gabriella , Chandrasekaran Dhivya
Published: October 2023

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has been widely adopted in the management of early-stage gynaecological cancers such as endometrial, vulvar and cervical cancer. Comprehensive surgical staging is crucial for patients with early-stage ovarian cancer and currently, that includes bilateral pelvic and para-aortic lymph node assessment. SLNB allows the identification, excision and pathological assessment of the first draining lymph nodes, thus negating the need for a full lymphadenectomy. We systematically searched the MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases (from inception to 3 November 2022) in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Our search identified 153 articles from which 11 were eligible for inclusion. Patients with clinical stage I–II ovarian cancer undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy were included. Statistical analysis was performed in RStudio using the meta package, where meta-analysis was performed for the detection. The risk of bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies C (QUADAS-C) tool. Overall, 11 observational studies met the predetermined criteria and these included 194 women. The meta-analysis showed that the detection rate of sentinel lymph nodes in early-stage ovarian cancer was 94% (95% CI of 86% to 1.00%). Significant heterogeneity was noted among the studies with Q = 47.6, p < 0.0001, I2 = 79% and τ2 = 0.02. Sentinel lymph nodes in early-stage ovarian cancer have a high detection rate and can potentially have applicability in clinical practice. However, considering the small number of participants in the studies, the heterogeneity among them and the low quality of evidence, the results should be interpreted with caution. Larger trials are needed before a change in clinical practice is recommended.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Hepatitis: Advanced Diagnosis and Management with a Focus on the Prevention of Hepatitis B-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Soo Ryang , Kim Soo Ki
Published: October 2023

Though the world-wide hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination program has been well completed for almost thirty years in many nations, almost HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurs in unvaccinated middle-aged and elderly adults. Apparently, treating 80% of qualified subjects could decrease HBV-related mortality by 65% in a short period. Nevertheless, globally, only 2.2% of CHB patients undergo antiviral therapy. The HBV markers related to HCC occurrence and prevention are as follows: the HCC risk is the highest at a baseline of HBV DNA of 6–7 log copies/mL, and it is the lowest at a baseline of an HBV DNA level of >8 log copies/mL and ≤4 log copies/mL (parabolic, and not linear pattern). The titer of an HBV core-related antigen (HBcrAg) reflecting the amount of HBV covalently closed circular DNA (ccc DNA) in the liver is related to HCC occurrence. The seroclearance of HBs antigen (HBsAg) is more crucial than HBV DNA negativity for the prevention of HCC. In terms of the secondary prevention of hepatitis B-related HCC involving antiviral therapies with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs), unsolved issues include the definition of the immune-tolerant phase; the optimal time for starting antiviral therapies with NAs; the limits of increased aminotransferase (ALT) levels as criteria for therapy in CHB patients; the normalization of ALT levels with NAs and the relation to the risk of HCC; and the relation between serum HBV levels and the risk of HCC. Moreover, the first-line therapy with NAs including entecavir (ETV), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) remains to be clarified. Discussed here, therefore, are the recent findings of HBV markers related to HCC occurrence and prevention, unsolved issues, and the current secondary antiviral therapy for the prevention of HBV-related HCC.