bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Resistance to Bt Corn on the Reproductive Output of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: de Souza Ribas Natália , McNeil Jeremy N. , Araújo Hernane Dias , de Souza Ribas Bruna , Lima Eraldo
Published: February 2022

The fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda is the most significant lepidopteran corn pest in South American countries. Transgenic Bt corn, producing the Cry1Fa toxins, has been used to control this pest, but there is clear evidence that some FAW populations have developed resistance. To determine if there are costs associated with resistance, we compared the mass of adults, the duration of mating, and the mass of the first spermatophore produced, as well as the lifetime fecundity and fertility of once-mated susceptible (SS) and resistant (RR) females. Adult mass was affected by both sex and strain, with SS females being significantly larger than RR ones, while the inverse was true for males. RR pairs took significantly longer to mate than SS pairs, yet the mass of spermatophores produced by RR males was significantly less than those of SS males. The total number of eggs laid did not differ but the fertility of eggs from once-mated RR pairs was significantly lower than that of SS pairs. Our data provided clear evidence that the development of Bt resistance affected the reproductive capacity of resistant FAW.
Music Intervention for Pain Control in the Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ting Berne , Tsai Chia-Lin , Hsu Wei-Ti , Shen Mei-Ling , Tseng Ping-Tao , Chen Daniel Tzu-Li , Su Kuan-Pin , Jingling Li
Published: February 2022

Music intervention (MI) has been applied as an effective adjunctive treatment for pain control in various clinical settings. However, no meta-analysis has yet been published on the analgesic effects of MI in infants and children. We performed a systematic review of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with the keywords “pain” AND “music therapy” from inception to January 2022. Primary outcomes were pain intensity and vital signs. Standardized mean difference (SMD) values and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using a random effect model. Subgroup analyses with age groups, types of pain, and music styles were conducted. A total of 38 RCTs involving 5601 participants met the selection criteria. MI significantly decreased the pain levels (SMD = −0.57, p < 0.001), both in the newborn group (p = 0.007) and in the infant/children group (p < 0.001). MI significantly reduced heart rate (SMD = −0.50, p < 0.001) and respiratory rate (SMD = −0.60, p = 0.002) and increased peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SMD = 0.44, p < 0.001). In subgroup analyses of types of pain, MI had significant effects on prick pain (p = 0.003), chronic and procedural pain (p < 0.001), and postoperative pain (p = 0.018). As for music styles, significant analgesic effects were observed for classical music (p < 0.001), kids’ music (p < 0.001), and pop music (p = 0.001), but not for world music (p = 0.196), special composition (p = 0.092), and multiple music combinations (p = 0.420). In conclusion, our analysis provides supportive evidence about the efficacy of MI, especially classical, kids’, and pop music, in controlling prick, procedural, and postoperative pain in the pediatric population.
Properties of A Model Self-Healing Microcapsule-Based Dental Composite Reinforced with Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Abid Althaqafi Khaled , Alshabib Abdulrahman , Satterthwaite Julian , Silikas Nikolaos
Published: February 2022

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mechanical properties of an experimental self-healing dental composite model (SHDC) composed of SiO2 nanoparticles with varying percentages of triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) monomer and N,N-dihydroxyethyl-p-toluidine (DHEPT) amine microcapsules. Materials and methods: Microcapsules were prepared by in-situ polymerisation of PUF shells, as explained in our previous work. The model SHDC included bisphenol A glycidyl dimethacrylate (Bis-GMA:TEGDMA) (1:1), 1 wt% phenyl bis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (BAPO), 0.5 wt% benzoyl peroxide (BPO) catalyst, 20 wt% silanised silica dioxide (SiO2) (15 nm) and (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 wt%) of microcapsules (120 ± 45 μm). Light transmission, hardness, degree of conversion (DC), flexural strength and elastic modulus of the SHDC model were measured. Results: The degree of conversion of the SHDC ranged from 73 to 76% 24 h after polymerisation. Hardness measurements ranged from 22 to 26 VHN (p > 0.05); however, the flexural strength was adversely affected from 80 to 55 MPa with increasing microcapsules of up to 10 wt% in the composites (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Only flexural strength decreased drastically ~30% with increasing microcapsules (>10 wt%) in the composites. All other measured properties were not significantly affected. Accordingly, we recommend a stronger composite material that could be created by increasing the filler content distribution in order to achieve a hybrid self-healing composite with enhanced mechanical properties.
Emergency Department Overcrowding: Understanding the Factors to Find Corresponding Solutions
Authors: Savioli Gabriele , Ceresa Iride Francesca , Gri Nicole , Bavestrello Piccini Gaia , Longhitano Yaroslava , Zanza Christian , Piccioni Andrea , Esposito Ciro , Ricevuti Giovanni , Bressan Maria Antonietta
Published: February 2022

It is certain and established that overcrowding represents one of the main problems that has been affecting global health and the functioning of the healthcare system in the last decades, and this is especially true for the emergency department (ED). Since 1980, overcrowding has been identified as one of the main factors limiting correct, timely, and efficient hospital care. The more recent COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the accentuation of this phenomenon, which was already well known and of international interest. Considering what would appear to be a trivial definition of overcrowding, it may seem simple for the reader to hypothesize solutions for what seems to be one of the most avoidable problems affecting the hospital system. However, proposing solutions to overcrowding, as well as their implementation, cannot be separated from a correct and precise definition of the issue, which must consider the main causes and aggravating factors. In light of the need of finding solutions that can put an end to hospital overcrowding, this review aims, through a review of the literature, to summarize the triggering factors, as well as the possible solutions that can be proposed.
Free-Energy Profile Analysis of the Catalytic Reaction of Glycinamide Ribonucleotide Synthetase
Authors: Yamamoto Norifumi , Sampei Genichi , Kawai Gota
Published: February 2022

The second step in the de novo biosynthetic pathway of purine is catalyzed by PurD, which consumes an ATP molecule to produce glycinamide ribonucleotide (GAR) from glycine and phosphoribosylamine (PRA). PurD initially reacts with ATP to produce an intermediate, glycyl-phosphate, which then reacts with PRA to produce GAR. The structure of the glycyl-phosphate intermediate bound to PurD has not been determined. Therefore, the detailed reaction mechanism at the molecular level is unclear. Here, we developed a computational protocol to analyze the free-energy profile for the glycine phosphorylation process catalyzed by PurD, which examines the free-energy change along a minimum energy path based on a perturbation method combined with the quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics hybrid model. Further analysis revealed that during the formation of glycyl-phosphate, the partial atomic charge distribution within the substrate molecules was not localized according to the formal charges, but was delocalized overall, which contributed significantly to the interaction with the charged amino acid residues in the ATP-grasp domain of PurD.
In Vitro Study of Preload Loss in Different Implant Abutment Connection Designs
Authors: Vinhas Ana Sofia , Aroso Carlos , Salazar Filomena , Relvas Marta , Braga Ana Cristina , Ríos-Carrasco Blanca , Gil Javier , Rios-Santos José Vicente , Fernández-Palacín Ana , Herrero-Climent Mariano
Published: February 2022

The stability and integrity of the abutment-implant connection, by means of a screw, is fallible from the moment the prosthetic elements are joined and is dependent on the applied preload, wear of the components and function. One of the main causes of screw loosening is the loss of preload. The loosening of the screw-abutment can cause complications such as screw fracture, marginal gap, peri-implantitis, bacterial microleakage, loosening of the crown and discomfort of the patient. It is also reported that loosening of the screw/abutment may lead to a failure of osseointegration. It is necessary to evaluate and quantify, with in vitro studies, the torque loss before and after loading in the different connections. Aim: evaluate the influence of implant- abutment connection design in torque maintenance after single tightening, multiple tightening and multiple tightening followed by mechanical cycling. Materials and Methods: 180 Klockner implants divided in 4 groups: 15 SK2 external connection, 25 Ncm tightening torque; 15 KL external connection, 30 Ncm tightening torque; 15 Vega internal connection, 25 Ncm tightening torque; 15 Essential internal connection, 30 Ncm tightening torque. In each group removal torque values (RTV) were evaluated with a digital torque meter, in 3 distinct phases: after one single tightening, 10 multiple tightenings and 10 multiple tightenings and cyclic loading (500 N × 1000 cycles). Results: After one single tightening, and for all connections, RTV were lower than those of insertion, but only for Essential and Vega internal connections this result was statistically significant. After multiple tightening, RTV were significantly lower in all connections. After repeated tightening followed by cyclic loading, mean RTV were significantly lower, when compared to insertion torque. The multiple tightening technique resulted in higher RTV than the single tightening technique, except for Vega implant. The multiple tightening followed by cyclic load, compared to the other phases, was the one that generated the lowest RTV, for all connections. Conclusions: The connection design, in our study, did not seem to influence the maintenance of preload. Loading influenced the loss of preload, in the sense that significantly decreased the removal torque values. The multiple re-tightening technique resulted in higher removal torque values than the single tightening technique. Clinically, our results recommend to retighten retaining screws, a few minutes after insertion.
Pressure-Induced Superconductivity in Iron-Based Spin-Ladder Compound BaFe2+δ(S1−xSex)3
Authors: Takahashi Hiroki , Kikuchi Ryosuke , Kawashima Chizuru , Imaizumi Satoshi , Aoyama Takuya , Ohgushi Kenya
Published: February 2022

The iron-based superconductors had a significant impact on condensed matter physics. They have a common structural motif of a two-dimensional square iron lattice and exhibit fruitful physical properties as a strongly correlated electron system. During the extensive investigations, quasi-one-dimensional iron-based spin-ladder compounds attracted much attention as a platform for studying the interplay between magnetic and orbital ordering. In these compounds, BaFe2S3 and BaFe2Se3 were found to exhibit superconductivity under high pressure, having a different crystal and magnetic structure at low temperature. We report a brief review of the iron-based spin-ladder compound and recent studies for BaFe2+δ(S1−xSex)3. BaFe2(S0.75 Se0.25)3 is in the vicinity of the boundary of two different magnetic phases and it is intriguing to perform high pressure experiments for studying superconductivity, since effects of large magnetic fluctuations on superconductivity are expected. The effect of iron stoichiometry on the interplay between magnetism and superconductivity is also studied by changing the iron concentration in BaFe2+δSe3.
Fly Ash-Added, Seawater-Mixed Pervious Concrete: Compressive Strength, Permeability, and Phosphorus Removal
Authors: Hwang Sangchul , Yeon Jung
Published: February 2022

A mix proportion of off-spec fly ash (FA)-added, seawater-mixed pervious concrete (SMPC) was optimized for compressive strength and permeability and then the optimized SMPC was tested for the rate and extent of aqueous phosphorus removal. An optimum mix proportion was obtained to attain the percentages (% wt.) of FA-to-binder at 15.0%, nano SiO2 (NS)-to-FA at 3.0%, liquid-to-binder at 0.338, and water reducer-to-binder at 0.18% from which a 7-day compressive strength of 14.0 MPa and a permeability of 5.5 mm/s were predicted. A long-term maximum compressive strength was measured to be ~16 MPa for both the optimized SMPC and the control ordinary pervious concrete (Control PC). The phosphorus removal was favorable for both the optimized SMPC and the Control PC based on the dimensionless Freundlich parameter (1/n). Both the optimized SMPC and Control PC had a first-order phosphorus removal constant of ~0.03 h−1. The optimized SMPC had a slightly lower capacity of phosphorus removal than the Control PC based on the Freundlich constant, Kf (mg1−1/n kg−1 L1/n): 15.72 for the optimized SMPC vs. 16.63 for Control. This study demonstrates a cleaner production and application of off-spec FA-added, seawater-mixed pervious concrete to simultaneously attain water, waste, and concrete sustainability.
Radiographic Evaluation of Regeneration Strategies for the Treatment of Advanced Mandibular Furcation Defects: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Huang Hsiang-Ling , Ma Yun-Han , Tu Che-Chang , Chang Po-Chun
Published: February 2022

Teeth with furcation involvement (FI) present a higher risk of loss and are difficult to maintain. This study evaluated the efficacy of furcation defect regeneration (FDR) as a regeneration strategy. Pre-operative and 6-month postoperative radiographs were collected from patients receiving regeneration therapy for mandibular teeth with degree II and early degree III FI. The linear furcation involvement (LFI), ratio of LFI (RLI), LFI and RLI adjusted bythe alveolar bone crest (ABC), and radiographic intensity were assessed. The effects of demographic characteristics, regeneration treatment strategies, the relationship between furcation and ABC, and adjacent intrabony defect regeneration (AIDR) were evaluated using a generalized linear model and logistic regression. The results demonstrated that 1.5 mm adjusted LFI and 40% adjusted RLI were achieved in both pure furcation defects and combined furcation–angular defects by the combination of bone replacement grafts (BRG) and enamel matrix derivatives (EMD) or collagen membrane (CM); deproteinized bovine bone matrix (DBBM) showed a superior outcome among BRG. In combined furcation–angular defects, EMD appeared more beneficial than CM, and AIDR significantly promoted adjusted LFI and RLI. In conclusion, DBBM with EMD or CM was effective for FDR, and AIDR had a positive effect on FDR in the combined furcation–angular defect.
Serum Metabolomic Analysis of Male Patients with Cannabis or Amphetamine Use Disorder
Authors: Alasmari Fawaz , Assiri Mohammed A. , Ahamad Syed Rizwan , Aljumayi Sahar R. , Alotaibi Wedad H. , Alhamdan Majd M. , Alhazzani Khalid , Alharbi Metab , Alqahtani Faleh , Alasmari Abdullah F.
Published: February 2022

Studies have demonstrated that chronic consumption of abused drugs induces alterations in several proteins that regulate metabolism. For instance, methamphetamine exposure reduces glucose levels. Fatty and amino acid levels were altered in groups exposed to abused drugs. Therefore, in our study, we investigated the serum metabolomic profile of patients diagnosed with cannabis and/or amphetamine use disorders. Blood was obtained from subjects (control, amphetamine, and cannabis). Detection of serum metabolites was performed using gas chromatography. The ratio peak areas for metabolites were analyzed across the three groups. Both cannabis and amphetamine groups showed higher d-erythrotetrafuranose, octadecanoic acid, hexadecenoic acid, trans-9-octadecanoic acid, lactic acid and methyl thio hydantoin metabolites compared with the control group. Moreover, cannabis patients were found to possess higher glycine, 9,12 octadecanoic acid malonic acid, phosphoric acid and prostaglandin F1a than controls. Our analysis showed that the identified metabolic profile of cannabis or amphetamine use disorder patients was different than control group. Our data indicated that chronic exposure to cannabis or amphetamine dysregulated metabolites in the serum. Future studies are warranted to explore the effects of these abused drugs on the metabolic proteins.
A Novel AlGaN/GaN Transient Voltage Suppression Diode with Bidirectional Clamp Capability
Authors: He Zhiyuan , Shi Yijun , Huang Yun , Chen Yiqiang , Wang Hongyue , Wang Lei , Lu Guoguang , Xin Yajie
Published: February 2022

This work proposes a novel AlGaN/GaN transient voltage suppression (TVS) diode (B-TVS-D) with bidirectional clamp capability, which consists of a small-size AlGaN/GaN monolithic bidirectional switch, two 2DEG-based current-limiting resistors (R1A/R1C, in parallel connection between the gate electrodes and the neighboring ohmic-contact electrodes (anode/cathode)), and a 2DEG-based proportional amplification resistor (R2, in parallel connection between two gate electrodes). It is demonstrated that the proposed B-TVS-D possesses a symmetrical triggering voltage (Vtrig) and a high secondary breakdown current (Is, over 8 A, corresponding to 12 kV human body model failure voltage) in different directional electrostatic discharge (ESD) events. The proposed diode can effectively enhance the electrostatic discharge robustness for the GaN-based power system. It is also verified that R1A/R1C and R2 have an important impact on Vtrig of the proposed B-TVS-D. Both the decrease in R2 and increase in R1A/R1C can lead to the decrease of Vtrig. In addition, the proposed B-TVS-D can be fabricated on the conventional p-GaN HEMT platform, making the ESD design of the GaN-based power system more convenient.
Construction and Destruction of Bontău Composite Volcano in the Extensional Setting of Zărand Basin during Miocene (Apuseni Mts., Romania)
Authors: Seghedi Ioan , Mirea Viorel M. , Ștefan Gabriel C.
Published: February 2022

The Eastern part of the Miocene Zărand extensional basin witnessed the generation and evolution of the largest composite volcano in Apuseni Mts., named recently Bontău. The volcano is filling the basin at the junction between the South and North Apuseni Mountains. The Bontău Volcano is known to be active roughly between ~14–10. In spite of heavily forested and poorly exposed volcanic deposits, it was possible to identify its complex evolution. The volcano suggests an original oval-shaped edifice base currently showing a north-oriented horseshoe-shaped debris avalanche eroded crater. The early effusive volcanic activity was contemporaneous with the emplacement of individual and/or clustered volcanic lava Domes. Late-stage summit dome generation was followed by several volcanic collapses all around the volcanic edifice producing large volcanic debris avalanche deposits (DADs), accompanied by numerous debris flows all around the volcano periphery. Thick pumice pyroclastic flow deposits found below DADs at the periphery may suggest that the slope failures were proceeded by a Plinian eruption. The debris avalanche crater is the last event in the volcano evolution exposing several intrusive andesitic-dioritic bodies and associated hydrothermal and mineralization processes, most probably including the former central vent area of the volcano. The volcano proximal effusive and explosive deposits display a change in the composition of the erupting magma (increased SiO2 from 53.4% to 60.6%) that resulted in an increase of viscosity and the construction of the summit lava domes. Such domes are however only found as various size blocks in DADs. The volcanism connects with the two steps of geotectonic evolution of the Zărand Basin: The initial construction period during regional extension started ~16 Ma up to 12.3–12.1 when the Bontău volcano and surrounding domes were generated. The second period, younger than 12 Ma, corresponds to NW-SE compressional tectonics developed only in the Bontău volcano with summit dome generation and, finally, assists volcano destruction and DADs generation. Newly performed geochemical and Sr and Nd isotopic data studies attest to a calc-alkaline character and suggest an evolution via assimilation-fractional crystallization processes of a dominant MORB-like mantle source magma. Also, they confirm the amphibole (±pyroxene) andesites to be the most evolved lithology. The stepwise changes in fracture propagation in the Zărand extensional setting along with a change to more hydrated and fractionated magma favored in ~4 Myrs of the evolution of the Bontău volcano lead to multiple pulses of the longest-lived magma chamber in the whole Miocene volcanism of the Apuseni Mts.
Industry Scale Optimization: Hammer Crusher and DEM Simulations
Authors: Doroszuk Błażej , Król Robert
Published: February 2022

The paper shows the preparation of the numerical models necessary for the simulation mapping of industrial-scale crushers of problematic material, such as copper ore with complex lithology. The crushers investigated in this work are located in the KGHM Polska Miedz S.A. copper ore processing plant. The complex ore consisting of sandstone, dolomite and shale is modeled using the Discrete Element Method (DEM) with Particle Replacement Model (PRM) that was chosen to simulate the crushing process. The article discusses the tests and calibration of material parameters and proceeds to test a breakage model in a laboratory-scale jaw crusher. The results are finally validated with the data from actual industrial-scale crushers and compared with the simulations. As an optimization option, the new shape of hammers is proposed and tested in a numerical environment. The performance of the newly designed hammers was examined using numerical methods. The numerical tests showed that the new design performed worse than the current solution. As a result, time and money were saved by avoiding industrial tests. In conclusion, the work shows how complex processes can be characterized in the numerical environment and used for further analysis.
The Alleviating Effect of Lagerstroemia indica Flower Extract on Stretch Marks through Regulation of Mast Cells
Authors: Yeom Miji , Ji Hyanggi , Shin Jongheon , Cho Eunae , Ryu De-Hun , Park Deokhoon , Jung Eunsun
Published: February 2022

Striae distensae (SD) or stretch marks are common linear scars of atrophic skin with disintegrating extracellular matrix (ECM) structures. Although fibroblasts contribute to the construction of ECM structure in SD, some studies have reported that mast cell degranulation causes the disruption of ECM in early SD lesions. Lagerstroemia indica flower (LIF) has traditionally been used in India as a diuretic. However, little is known about the effect and molecular action of Lagerstroemia indica flower extract (LIFE) on alleviating SD. This study evaluated the effects of LIFE on mast cell degranulation and the synthesis of ECM components in fibroblasts. LIFE inhibits the adhesion of rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells, RBL-2H3 on fibronectin (FN) and the expression of integrin, a receptor for FN, thereby reducing focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation. In addition, LIFE attenuated the allergen-induced granules and cytokine interleukin 3 (IL-3) through the adhesion with FN. Moreover, the conditioned medium (CM) of activated mast cells decreases the synthesis of ECM components, and LIFE restores the abnormal expressions induced by activated mast cells. These results demonstrate that LIFE suppresses FN-induced mast cell activation and promotes the synthesis of ECM components in fibroblast, which indicates that LIFE may be a useful cosmetic agent for SD treatment.
Machine Learning Approaches for Metalloproteins
Authors: Yu Yue , Wang Ruobing , Teo Ruijie D.
Published: February 2022

Metalloproteins are a family of proteins characterized by metal ion binding, whereby the presence of these ions confers key catalytic and ligand-binding properties. Due to their ubiquity among biological systems, researchers have made immense efforts to predict the structural and functional roles of metalloproteins. Ultimately, having a comprehensive understanding of metalloproteins will lead to tangible applications, such as designing potent inhibitors in drug discovery. Recently, there has been an acceleration in the number of studies applying machine learning to predict metalloprotein properties, primarily driven by the advent of more sophisticated machine learning algorithms. This review covers how machine learning tools have consolidated and expanded our comprehension of various aspects of metalloproteins (structure, function, stability, ligand-binding interactions, and inhibitors). Future avenues of exploration are also discussed.
The Ionic Product of Water in the Eye of the Quantum Cluster Equilibrium
Authors: Kirchner Barbara , Ingenmey Johannes , von Domaros Michael , Perlt Eva
Published: February 2022

The theoretical description of water properties continues to be a challenge. Using quantum cluster equilibrium (QCE) theory, we combine state-of-the-art quantum chemistry and statistical thermodynamic methods with the almost historical Clausius–Clapeyron relation to study water self-dissociation and the thermodynamics of vaporization. We pay particular attention to the treatment of internal rotations and their impact on the investigated properties by employing the modified rigid-rotor–harmonic-oscillator (mRRHO) approach. We also study a novel QCE parameter-optimization procedure. Both the ionic product and the vaporization enthalpy yield an astonishing agreement with experimental reference data. A significant influence of the mRRHO approach is observed for cluster populations and, consequently, for the ionic product. Thermodynamic properties are less affected by the treatment of these low-frequency modes.
Identification of New Regulators of Pancreatic Cancer Cell Sensitivity to Oxaliplatin and Cisplatin
Authors: Skripova Vera , Vlasenkova Ramilia , Zhou Yan , Astsaturov Igor , Kiyamova Ramziya
Published: February 2022

The chemoresistance of tumor cells is one of the most urgent challenges in modern oncology and in pancreatic cancer, in which this problem is the most prominent. Therefore, the identification of new chemosensitizing co-targets may be a path toward increasing chemotherapy efficacy. In this work, we performed high-performance in vitro knockout CRISPR/Cas9 screening to find potential regulators of the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer. For this purpose, MIA PaCa-2 cells transduced with two sgRNA libraries (“cell cycle/nuclear proteins genes” and “genome-wide”) were screened by oxaliplatin and cisplatin. In total, 173 candidate genes were identified as potential regulators of pancreatic cancer cell sensitivity to oxaliplatin and/or cisplatin; among these, 25 genes have previously been reported, while 148 genes were identified for the first time as potential platinum drug sensitivity regulators. We found seven candidate genes involved in pancreatic cancer cell sensitivity to both cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Gene ontology enrichment analysis reveals the enrichment of single-stranded DNA binding, damaged DNA binding pathways, and four associated with NADH dehydrogenase activity. Further investigation and validation of the obtained results by in vitro, in vivo, and bioinformatics approaches, as well as literature analysis, will help to identify novel pancreatic cancer platinum sensitivity regulators.
Electrical Transport in Iron Phosphate-Based Glass-(Ceramics): Insights into the Role of B2O3 and HfO2 from Model-Free Scaling Procedures
Authors: Bafti Arijeta , Kubuki Shiro , Ertap Hüseyin , Yüksek Mustafa , Karabulut Mevlüt , Moguš-Milanković Andrea , Pavić Luka
Published: February 2022

In this work, we report the effect of the addition of modifiers and network formers on the polaronic transport in iron phosphate glasses (IPG) in two systems of HfO2–B2O3–Fe2O3–P2O5, to which up to 8 mol% boron and hafnium are added. The addition of oxides significantly changes the Fe2+/Fetotal ratio, thus directly affecting the polaron number density and consequently controlling DC conductivity trends for both series studied by impedance spectroscopy. Moreover, we found that short-range polaron dynamics are also under the influence of structural changes. Therefore, we have studied them in detail using model-free scaling procedures, Summerfield and Sidebottom scaling. An attempt to construct a super-master curve revealed that in addition to change in polaron number density, also the polaron hopping lengths change, and Sidebottom scaling yields a super-master curve. The spatial extent of the localized motion of polarons is correlated with polaron number density and two distinct regions are observed. A strong increase in the spatial extent of the polaron hopping jump could be related either to the structural changes due to the addition of HfO2 and B2O3 and their effects on the formation of polarons or to an inherent property of polaron transport in IP glasses with low polaron number density.
Antibacterial and Fluorescence Staining Properties of an Innovative GTR Membrane Containing 45S5BGs and AIE Molecules In Vitro
Authors: Wei Yu-Wen , Sayed Sayed Mir , Zhu Wei-Wen , Xu Ke-Fei , Wu Fu-Gen , Xu Jing , Nie He-Peng , Wang Yu-Li , Lu Xiao-Lin , Ma Qian
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to add two functional components—antibacterial 45S5BGs particles and AIE nanoparticles (TPE-NIM+) with bioprobe characteristics—to the guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membrane, to optimize the performance. The PLGA/BG/TPE-NIM+ membrane was synthesized. The static water contact angle, morphologies, and surface element analysis of the membrane were then characterized. In vitro biocompatibility was tested with MC3T3-E1 cells using CCK-8 assay, and antibacterial property was evaluated with Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis by the LIVE/DEAD bacterial staining and dilution plating procedure. The fluorescence staining of bacteria was observed by Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope. The results showed that the average water contact angle was 46°. In the cytotoxicity test, except for the positive control group, there was no significant difference among the groups (p > 0.05). The antibacterial effect in the PLGA/BG/TPE-NIM+ group was significantly (p < 0.01), while the sterilization rate was 99.99%, better than that in the PLGA/BG group (98.62%) (p < 0.01). Confocal images showed that the membrane efficiently distinguished G+ bacteria from G− bacteria. This study demonstrated that the PLGA/BG/TPE-NIM+ membrane showed good biocompatibility, efficient sterilization performance, and surface mineralization ability and could be used to detect pathogens in a simple, fast, and wash-free protocol.
High Device Performances and Noise Characteristics of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs Using In Situ SiCN and SiN Cap Layer
Authors: Im Ki-Sik , Mallem Siva Pratap Reddy , Choi Jin-Seok , Hwang Young-Min , Roh Jae-Seung , An Sung-Jin , Lee Jae-Hoon
Published: February 2022

We fabricated and characterized AlGaN/GaN high-electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) with a nano-sized in situ cap layer (one is a silicon carbon nitride (SiCN) layer, and the other is a silicon nitride (SiN) layer) comparing to the conventional device without an in situ cap layer. The pulse characteristics and noise behaviors for two devices with in situ cap layers are much superior to those of the reference device without a cap layer, which means that the in situ cap layer effectively passivates the AlGaN surface. On the other hand, the device with an in situ SiCN cap layer showed the excellent device characteristics and noise performances compared to the other devices because of the reduced positive ionic charges and enhanced surface morphology caused by carbon (C) surfactant atoms during the growth of the SiCN cap layer. These results indicate that the AlGaN/GaN HEMT with the in situ SiCN cap layer is very promising for the next high-power device by replacing the conventional HEMT.
Nutritional Quality of Wholegrain Cereal-Based Products Sold on the Italian Market: Data from the FLIP Study
Authors: Dall’Asta Margherita , Angelino Donato , Paolella Gaetana , Dodi Rossella , Pellegrini Nicoletta , Martini Daniela
Published: February 2022

The consumption of wholegrains (WG) is encouraged worldwide, but the lack of a common legal definition of such products leads to an unclear classification and identification on the grocery store shelf. In Italy, several products are generally sold as WG, but it cannot be determined if they are made entirely with all WG cereal(s) or if they are partially produced with WG ingredients (PWG). The aims of this study were to (a) survey the number of cereal-based food items formulated with WG, PWG, or refined (RG) present on the Italian market; and (b) analyse the nutritional quality, intended as nutrition facts, of WG products in comparison to PWG and RG. Nutritional information and declarations were retrieved from packs of 3040 products belonging to five different categories: breakfast cereals, biscuits, sweet snacks, bread, and bread substitutes. A descriptive analysis of the products and comparison of energy, macronutrients, fibre and salt among RG, PWG and WG products within each category was performed. In all categories, a major portion of the products did not contain WG ingredients. Results showed that the nutritional quality of RG, PWG, and WG products varied in relation to the product category and that WG inclusion cannot be always considered a marker of the overall nutritional quality of foods. Instead, it is necessary to evaluate the global product characteristics, and it is important to pay attention to differences between WG and PWG products that can be perceived by consumers as equivalent.
The Panax ginseng Berry Extract and Soluble Whey Protein Hydrolysate Mixture Ameliorates Sarcopenia-Related Muscular Deterioration in Aged Mice
Authors: Han Min-Ji , Park Seok-Jun , Lee Sang-Jun , Choung Se-Young
Published: February 2022

Sarcopenia is prevalent as the aging population grows. Therefore, the need for supplements for the elderly is increasing. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and mechanism of a Panax ginseng berry extract (GBE) and soluble whey protein hydrolysate (WPH) mixture on a sarcopenia-related muscular deterioration in aged mice. Ten-month-old male C57BL/6J mice were administered three different doses of the GBE + WPH mixture for 8 weeks; 700 mg/kg, 900 mg/kg, and 1100 mg/kg. Grip strength, serum inflammatory cytokines level, and mass of muscle tissues were estimated. The deteriorating function of aging muscle was investigated via protein or gene expression. Grip strength and mass of three muscle tissues were increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner, and increased anti-inflammatory cytokine alleviated systemic inflammatory state. The mixture resolved the imbalance of muscle protein turnover through activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway and increased gene expression of the muscle regeneration-related factors, while decreasing myostatin, which interferes with muscle protein synthesis and regeneration. Furthermore, we confirmed that increased mitochondria number in muscle with the improvement of mitochondrial biogenesis. These physiological changes were similar to the effects of exercise.
The Effect of ß-Glucan Prebiotic on Kidney Function, Uremic Toxins and Gut Microbiome in Stage 3 to 5 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Predialysis Participants: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ebrahim Zarina , Proost Sebastian , Tito Raul Yhossef , Raes Jeroen , Glorieux Griet , Moosa Mohammed Rafique , Blaauw Renée
Published: February 2022

There is growing evidence that gut dysbiosis contributes to the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) owing to several mechanisms, including microbiota-derived uremic toxins, diet and immune-mediated factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a ß-glucan prebiotic on kidney function, uremic toxins and the gut microbiome in stage 3 to 5 CKD participants. Fifty-nine participants were randomized to either the ß-glucan prebiotic intervention group (n = 30) or the control group (n = 29). The primary outcomes were to assess kidney function (urea, creatinine and glomerular filtration rate), plasma levels of total and free levels of uremic toxins (p-cresyl sulfate (pCS), indoxyl-sulfate (IxS), p-cresyl glucuronide (pCG) and indoxyl 3-acetic acid (IAA) and gut microbiota using 16S rRNA sequencing at baseline, week 8 and week 14. The intervention group (age 40.6 ± 11.4 y) and the control group (age 41.3 ± 12.0 y) did not differ in age or any other socio-demographic variables at baseline. There were no significant changes in kidney function over 14 weeks. There was a significant reduction in uremic toxin levels at different time points, in free IxS at 8 weeks (p = 0.003) and 14 weeks (p < 0.001), free pCS (p = 0.006) at 14 weeks and total and free pCG (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively) and at 14 weeks. There were no differences in relative abundances of genera between groups. Enterotyping revealed that the population consisted of only two of the four enterotypes: Bacteroides 2 and Prevotella. The redundancy analysis showed a few factors significantly affected the gut microbiome: these included triglyceride levels (p < 0.001), body mass index (p = 0.002), high- density lipoprotein (p < 0.001) and the prebiotic intervention (p = 0.002). The ß-glucan prebiotic significantly altered uremic toxin levels of intestinal origin and favorably affected the gut microbiome.
Glycomacropeptide in PKU—Does It Live Up to Its Potential?
Authors: Daly Anne , Pinto Alex , Evans Sharon , MacDonald Anita
Published: February 2022

The use of casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP) as a protein substitute in phenylketonuria (PKU) has grown in popularity. CGMP is derived from κ casein and is a sialic-rich glycophosphopeptide, formed by the action of chymosin during the production of cheese. It comprises 20–25% of total protein in whey products and has key biomodulatory properties. In PKU, the amino acid sequence of CGMP has been adapted by adding the amino acids histidine, leucine, methionine, tyrosine and tryptophan naturally low in CGMP. The use of CGMP compared to mono amino acids (L-AAs) as a protein substitute in the treatment of PKU promises several potential clinical benefits, although any advantage is supported only by evidence from non-PKU conditions or PKU animal models. This review examines if there is sufficient evidence to support the bioactive properties of CGMP leading to physiological benefits when compared to L-AAs in PKU, with a focus on blood phenylalanine control and stability, body composition, growth, bone density, breath odour and palatability.
The Nutritional Composition of Natural and Organic Branded Food Products: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Greek Foodscape
Authors: Katidi Alexandra , Pavlopoulou Anthi , Vlassopoulos Antonis , Kapsokefalou Maria
Published: February 2022

Modern consumers turn to foods marketed as ‘natural/organic’ in their pursuit of healthier options. However, research that links such claims made on pack with improved nutritional composition is limited. The current analysis used data from all packaged foods available in the Hellenic Food Thesaurus (n = 4002), sold in Greece from 09/2020 to 01/2021, to map the prevalence of packaged foods sold under a ‘natural/organic’ claim and to compare their nutritional composition against food group matched conventional counterparts. Statistical analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS Statistics®. Overall, ‘free from’ was the most commonly used claim (12.3%), followed by ‘natural/pure’ (9.1%), ‘fresh’ (4.6%), and ‘bio/organic’ (3.3%). Statistically significant differences between the nutritional composition of natural/organic and conventional foods were only found in 5 out of the 13 food categories and in 9 out of 39 subcategories. Being labelled as natural/organic was linked to improved nutritional composition for prepared foods and yogurts, while for breakfast cereal, there was a mixed effect with lower carbohydrate content but higher energy and fat content. Jams labelled as natural/organic had higher energy and total sugar content. Overall, evidence of an association between being labelled as natural/organic and having an improved nutritional composition was extremely rare.
Spanish Version of the Scale “Eventos Adversos Associados às Práticas de Enfermagem” (EAAPE): Validation in Nursing Students
Authors: Martínez-Sabater Antonio , Saus-Ortega Carlos , Masiá-Navalon Mónica , Chover-Sierra Elena , Ballestar-Tarín María Luisa
Published: February 2022

Healthcare carried out by different health professionals, including nurses, implies the possible appearance of adverse events that affect the safety of the patient and may cause damage to the patient. In clinical practice, it is necessary to have measurement instruments that allow for the evaluation of the presence of these types of events in order to prevent them. This study aims to validate the “Eventos adversos associados às práticas de enfermagem” (EAAPE) scale in Spanish and evaluate its reliability. The validation was carried out through a cross-sectional study with a sample of 337 nursing students from the University of Valencia recruited during the 2018–19 academic year. An exploratory factor analysis was carried out using principal components and varimax rotation. The factor analysis extracted two factors that explained 32.10% of the total variance. Factor 1 explains 22.19% and refers to the “adverse results” of clinical practice (29 items), and factor 2 explains 9.62% and refers to “preventive practices” (24 items). Both factors presented high reliability (Cronbach’s alpha 0.902 and 0.905, respectively). The Spanish version of the EAAPE is valid and reliable for measuring the perception of adverse events associated with nursing practice and the presence of prevention measures.
Proteomic Profiling and In Silico Characterization of the Secretome of Anisakis simplex Sensu Stricto L3 Larvae
Authors: Kochanowski Maciej , Dąbrowska Joanna , Różycki Mirosław , Sroka Jacek , Karamon Jacek , Bełcik Aneta , Korpysa-Dzirba Weronika , Cencek Tomasz
Published: February 2022

Anisakis simplex sensu stricto (s.s.) L3 larvae are one of the major etiological factors of human anisakiasis, which is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases. Nevertheless, to date, Anisakis secretome proteins, with important functions in nematode pathogenicity and host-parasite interactions, have not been extensively explored. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify and characterize the excretory-secretory (ES) proteins of A. simplex L3 larvae. ES proteins of A. simplex were subjected to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, and the identified proteins were then analyzed using bioinformatics tools. A total of 158 proteins were detected. Detailed bioinformatic characterization of ES proteins was performed, including Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, identification of enzymes, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways analysis, protein family classification, secretory pathway prediction, and detection of essential proteins. Furthermore, of all detected ES proteins, 1 was identified as an allergen, which was Ani s 4, and 18 were potential allergens, most of which were homologs of nematode and arthropod allergens. Nine potential pathogenicity-related proteins were predicted, which were predominantly homologs of chaperones. In addition, predicted host-parasite interactions between the Anisakis ES proteins and both human and fish proteins were identified. In conclusion, this study represents the first global analysis of Anisakis ES proteins. The findings provide a better understanding of survival and invasion strategies of A. simplex L3 larvae.
First Report of Anuran Trypanosoma DNA in Flat-Tailed House Geckos (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) Collected from Southern Thailand: No Evidence as a Reservoir for Human Trypanosomatids
Authors: Toontong Prapimporn , Sunantaraporn Sakone , Tiawsirisup Sonthaya , Pengsakul Theerakamol , Boonserm Rungfar , Phumee Atchara , Siriyasatien Padet , Preativatanyou Kanok
Published: February 2022

Over the years, cases of autochthonous leishmaniasis have been dramatically increasing in Thailand. Recently, several publications have claimed certain species of the phlebotomine sand flies and biting midges potentially serve as natural vectors of Leishmania and Trypanosoma species in this country. However, more information regarding the vector–parasite relationships, as well as their natural reservoirs in the country, still needs to be explored. Herein, we hypothesized that synanthropic reptiles in the leishmaniasis-affected area might be a natural reservoir for these parasites. In this present study, a total of nineteen flat-tailed house geckos were collected from the house of a leishmaniasis patient in Songkhla province, southern Thailand, and then dissected for their visceral organs for parasite detection. Small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene and internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS-1)-specific amplifications were conducted to verify the presence of Trypanosoma and Leishmania parasites, respectively. Only Trypanosoma DNA was screened positive in eight gecko individuals by SSU rRNA-PCR in at least one visceral organ (4, 4, and 6 of the heart, liver, and spleen, respectively) and phylogenetically related to the anuran Trypanosoma spp. (An04/Frog1 clade) previously detected in three Asian sand fly species (Phlebotomus kazeruni, Sergentomyia indica, and Se. khawi). Hence, our data indicate the first detection of anuran Trypanosoma sp. in the flat-tailed house geckos from southern Thailand. Essentially, it can be inferred that there is no evidence for the flat-tailed house gecko (Hemidactylus platyurus) as a natural reservoir of human pathogenic trypanosomatids in the leishmaniasis-affected area of southern Thailand.
Silver Nanofunctionalized Stent after Radiofrequency Ablation Suppresses Tissue Hyperplasia and Bacterial Growth
Authors: Park Yubeen , Won Dong-Sung , Bae Ga-Hyun , Ryu Dae Sung , Kang Jeon Min , Kim Ji Won , Kim Song Hee , Zeng Chu Hui , Park Wooram , Lee Sang Soo , Park Jung-Hoon
Published: February 2022

Intraductal radiofrequency (RF) ablation combined with placement of a self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) for malignant biliary obstruction has risks such as stent- and heat-induced biliary sludge and restenosis. Here, we investigated the efficacy of a silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)-coated SEMS to inhibit tissue hyperplasia and bacterial growth caused by RF ablation with stent placement in the rabbit bile duct. The release behavior and antibacterial effects of AgNPs-coated SEMSs were evaluated. Then, SEMSs were successfully placed in all rabbits immediately after RF ablation. Ag ions were rapidly released at the beginning and then showed a gradual release behavior. The AgNPs-coated SEMS significantly inhibited bacterial activity compared to the uncoated SEMS (p < 0.05). Cholangiography and histological examination confirmed that the level of tissue hyperplasia was significantly lower in the AgNPs group than in the control group (all p < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry analyses revealed that TUNEL-, HSP 70-, and α-SMA-positive areas were significantly lower in the AgNPs group than in the control group (all p < 0.05). Intraductal RF ablation combined with nanofunctionalized stent placement represents a promising new approach for suppressing thermal damage as well as stent-induced tissue hyperplasia and bacterial growth.