bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helical Plating Compared with Straight Plating and Nailing for Treatment of Proximal Third Humeral Shaft Fractures—A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Pastor Torsten , Zderic Ivan , Pastor Tatjana , Drenchev Ludmil , Skulev Hristo Kostov , van Knegsel Kenneth P. , Lenz Mark , Link Björn-Christian , Gueorguiev Boyko , Beeres Frank J. P.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: The surgical treatment of proximal humeral shaft fractures usually considers application of either long straight plates or intramedullary nails. By being able to spare the rotator cuff and avoid the radial nerve distally, the implementation of helical plates might overcome the downsides of common fixation methods. The aims of the current study were (1) to explore the biomechanical competence of different plate designs and (2) to compare their performance versus the alternative treatment option of using intramedullary nails. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four artificial humeri were assigned to the following four groups for simulation of an unstable proximal humeral shaft fracture and instrumentation: Group 1 (Straight-PHILOS), Group 2 (MULTILOC-Nail), Group 3 (45°-Helical-PHILOS), and Group 4 (90°-Helical-PHILOS). All specimens underwent non-destructive, quasi-static biomechanical testing under loading in axial compression, torsion in internal/external rotation, and pure bending in four directions, accompanied by motion tracking. Results: Axial stiffness/displacement in Group 2 was significantly higher/smaller than in all other groups (p ≤ 0.010). Torsional displacement in Group 2 was significantly bigger than in all other groups (p ≤ 0.017). Significantly smaller coronal plane displacement was identified in Group 2 versus all other groups (p < 0.001) and in Group 4 versus Group 1 (p = 0.022). Significantly bigger sagittal plane displacement was detected in Group 4 versus all other groups (p ≤ 0.024) and in Group 1 versus Group 2 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Intramedullary nails demonstrated higher axial stiffness and smaller axial interfragmentary movements compared with all investigated plate designs. However, they were associated with bigger torsional movements at the fracture site. Although 90°-helical plates revealed bigger interfragmentary movements in the sagittal plane, they demonstrated improved resistance against displacements in the coronal plane when compared with straight lateral plates. In addition, 45°-helical plates manifested similar biomechanical competence to straight plates and may be considered a valid alternative to the latter from a biomechanical standpoint.
Polyphenols in Inner Ear Neurobiology, Health and Disease: From Bench to Clinics
Authors: Osakabe Naomi , Modafferi Sergio , Ontario Maria Laura , Rampulla Francesco , Zimbone Vincenzo , Migliore Maria Rita , Fritsch Tilman , Abdelhameed Ali S. , Maiolino Luigi , Lupo Gabriella , Anfuso Carmelina Daniela , Genovese Elisabetta , Monzani Daniele , Wenzel Uwe , Calabrese Edward J. , Vabulas R. Martin , Calabrese Vittorio
Published: November 2023

There is substantial experimental and clinical interest in providing effective ways to both prevent and slow the onset of hearing loss. Auditory hair cells, which occur along the basilar membrane of the cochlea, often lose functionality due to age-related biological alterations, as well as from exposure to high decibel sounds affecting a diminished/damaged auditory sensitivity. Hearing loss is also seen to take place due to neuronal degeneration before or following hair cell destruction/loss. A strategy is necessary to protect hair cells and XIII cranial/auditory nerve cells prior to injury and throughout aging. Within this context, it was proposed that cochlea neural stem cells may be protected from such aging and environmental/noise insults via the ingestion of protective dietary supplements. Of particular importance is that these studies typically display a hormetic-like biphasic dose–response pattern that prevents the occurrence of auditory cell damage induced by various model chemical toxins, such as cisplatin. Likewise, the hormetic dose–response also enhances the occurrence of cochlear neural cell viability, proliferation, and differentiation. These findings are particularly important since they confirmed a strong dose dependency of the significant beneficial effects (which is biphasic), whilst having a low-dose beneficial response, whereas extensive exposures may become ineffective and/or potentially harmful. According to hormesis, phytochemicals including polyphenols exhibit biphasic dose–response effects activating low-dose antioxidant signaling pathways, resulting in the upregulation of vitagenes, a group of genes involved in preserving cellular homeostasis during stressful conditions. Modulation of the vitagene network through polyphenols increases cellular resilience mechanisms, thus impacting neurological disorder pathophysiology. Here, we aimed to explore polyphenols targeting the NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway to neuroprotective and therapeutic strategies that can potentially reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, thus preventing auditory hair cell and XIII cranial/auditory nerve cell degeneration. Furthermore, we explored techniques to enhance their bioavailability and efficacy.
Motor Vehicle Protective Device Usage Associated with Decreased Rate of Flail Chest: A Retrospective Database Analysis
Authors: Bassiri Aria , Badrinathan Avanti , Kishawi Sami , Sinopoli Jillian , Linden Philip A. , Ho Vanessa P. , Towe Christopher W.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Protective equipment, including seatbelts and airbags, have dramatically reduced the morbidity and mortality rates associated with motor vehicle collisions (MVCs). While generally associated with a reduced rate of injury, the effect of motor vehicle protective equipment on patterns of chest wall trauma is unknown. We hypothesized that protective equipment would affect the rate of flail chest after an MVC. Materials and Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of the 2019 iteration of the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Program (ACS-TQIP) database. Rib fracture types were categorized as non-flail chest rib fractures and flail chest using ICD-10 diagnosis coding. The primary outcome was the occurrence of flail chests after motor vehicle collisions. The protective equipment evaluated were seatbelts and airbags. We performed bivariate and multivariate logistic regression to determine the association of flail chest with the utilization of vehicle protective equipment. Results: We identified 25,101 patients with rib fractures after motor vehicle collisions. In bivariate analysis, the severity of the rib fractures was associated with seatbelt type, airbag status, smoking history, and history of cerebrovascular accident (CVA). In multivariate analysis, seatbelt use and airbag deployment (OR 0.76 CI 0.65–0.89) were independently associated with a decreased rate of flail chest. In an interaction analysis, flail chest was only reduced when a lap belt was used in combination with the deployed airbag (OR 0.59 CI 0.43–0.80) when a shoulder belt was used without airbag deployment (0.69 CI 0.49–0.97), or when a shoulder belt was used with airbag deployment (0.57 CI 0.46–0.70). Conclusions: Although motor vehicle protective equipment is associated with a decreased rate of flail chest after a motor vehicle collision, the benefit is only observed when lap belts and airbags are used simultaneously or when a shoulder belt is used. These data highlight the importance of occupant seatbelt compliance and suggest the effect of motor vehicle restraint systems in reducing severe chest wall injuries.
Finite Element Method in L-PBF of Ti-6Al-4V: Influence of Laser Power and Scan Speed on Residual Stress and Part Distortion
Authors: Palmeri Dina , Pollara Gaetano , Licari Roberto , Micari Fabrizio
Published: November 2023

Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) is widely used in automotive, aerospace, and biomedical applications thanks to its ability to produce complex geometries. In spite of its advantages, parts produced with this technology can show distortion due to the residual stresses developed during the printing process. For this reason, numerical simulations can be used to predict thermal gradients and residual stresses that can result in part distortion. Thus, instead of performing experimental tests and using a trial and error approach, it is possible to use numerical simulation to save time and material. In this work, the effect of laser power and scan speed on residual stress and part distortion was analysed using a commercial finite element analysis (FEA) software DEFORM-3D™ with a layer-by-layer approach. Moreover, the accuracy of the numerical model with respect to process parameters and the utilised mesh was also studied. The results obtained from the numerical simulation were compared to the actual distortions to evaluate the accuracy of the FEM model. The predicted distortions using FEM analysis well fit the trend of the measured ones. The accuracy of the numerical model increases by considering a finer mesh.
Effect of Fe-Bearing Phases on the Mechanical Properties and Fracture Mechanism of Al–2wt.%Cu–1.5wt.%Mn (Mg,Zn) Non-Heat Treatable Sheet Alloy
Authors: Belov Nikolay , Akopyan Torgom , Tsydenov Kirill , Cherkasov Stanislav , Avxentieva Natalia
Published: November 2023

The effects of Fe-bearing phases on the structure, mechanical properties, and fracture mechanism of a non-heat-treatable model sheet alloy (wt.%: Al–2%Cu–1.5%Mn(-Mg,Zn)), designed for Al20Cu2Mn3 dispersoids, was investigated. This involved a combination of thermodynamic modeling in the Thermo-Calc program and experimental studies of structure and mechanical properties. It has been shown that the addition of 0.5 and 0.4% iron and silicon leads to the formation of eutectic inclusions in the Al15(Mn,Fe)3Si2 phase. In addition to the Fe- bearing inclusions, the formation of the eutectic Al2Cu and Al2CuMg phases can be expected in the as-cast structure of the experimental alloys. Despite their relatively high fraction of eutectic particles, non-homogenized alloy ingots demonstrated sufficiently high deformation processability during the hot (400 °C) and cold rolling, which made it possible to obtain high-quality sheet alloys (with reduction degrees of 80 and 75%, respectively). The results of the tensile tests revealed that, after cold rolling, the addition of 1% Mg significantly increased the tensile and yield strengths, whereas the effect of 1% Zn was negligible. At the same time, the uniform distribution of Fe-bearing phases in the structure of the cold-rolled sheets contributes to the preservation of the dimple mechanism of the fracture toughness. This helps to maintain the same level of ductility for the cold-rolled sheet Fe-containing alloys as for Fe-free alloys. It has been shown, based on the data obtained, that adding Fe, Si, Mg, and Zn to the base Al–2%Cu–1.5%Mn alloy in a total amount of more than 3% makes it possible to retain the ductile fracture patterns of the base alloy and obtain a fairly higher level of mechanical properties. This suggests the fundamental possibility of using a variety of secondary raw materials (containing the main elements present in aluminum alloys of different alloying systems) to prepare a base alloy that does not require homogenization or thermal hardening.
Cobalt and Titanium Alleviate the Methylglyoxal-Induced Oxidative Stress in Pennisetum divisum Seedlings under Saline Conditions
Authors: Alhammad Bushra Ahmed , Saleem Khansa , Asghar Muhammad Ahsan , Raza Ali , Ullah Abd , Farooq Taimoor Hassan , Yong Jean W. H. , Xu Fei , Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Riaz Aamir
Published: November 2023

Salinity is considered to be a global problem and a severe danger to modern agriculture since it negatively impacts plants’ growth and development at both cellular- and whole-plant level. However, cobalt (Co) and titanium (Ti), multifunctional non-essential micro-elements, play a crucial role in improving plant growth and development under salinity stress. In the current study, Co and Ti impact on the morphological, biochemical, nutritional, and metabolic profile of Pennisetum divisum plants under three salinity levels which were assessed. Two concentrations of Co (Co-1; 15.0 mg/L and Co-2; 25.0 mg/L), and two concentrations of Ti (Ti-1; 50.0 mg/L and Ti-2; 100.0 mg/L) were applied as foliar application to the P. divisum plants under salinity (S1; 200 mM, S2; 500 mM, and S3; 1000 mM) stress. The results revealed that various morphological, biochemical, and metabolic processes were drastically impacted by the salinity-induced methylglyoxal (MG) stress. The excessive accumulation of salt ions, including Na+ (1.24- and 1.21-fold), and Cl− (1.53- and 1.15-fold) in leaves and roots of P. divisum, resulted in the higher production of MG (2.77- and 2.95-fold) in leaves and roots under severe (1000 mM) salinity stress, respectively. However, Ti-treated leaves showed a significant reduction in ionic imbalance and MG concentrations, whereas considerable improvement was shown in K+ and Ca2+ under salinity stress, and Co treatment showed downregulation of MG content (26, 16, and 14%) and improved the antioxidant activity, such as a reduction in glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), Glutathione reductase (GR), Glyoxalase I (Gly I), and Glyoxalase II (Gly II) by up to 1.13-, 1.35-, 3.75-, 2.08-, and 1.68-fold under severe salinity stress in P. divisum roots. Furthermore, MG-induced stress negatively impacted the metabolic profile and antioxidants activity of P. divisum’s root and leaves; however, Co and Ti treatment considerably improved the biochemical processes and metabolic profile in both underground and aerial parts of the studied plants. Collectively, the results depicted that Co treatment showed significant results in roots and Ti treatment presented considerable changes in leaves of P. divism under salinity stress.
The Relationships between Adverse Weather, Traffic Mobility, and Driver Behavior
Authors: Elyoussoufi Ayman , Walker Curtis L. , Black Alan W. , DeGirolamo Gregory J.
Published: November 2023

Adverse weather conditions impact mobility, safety, and the behavior of drivers on roads. In an average year, approximately 21% of U.S. highway crashes are weather-related. Collectively, these crashes result in over 5300 fatalities each year. As a proof-of-concept, analyzing weather information in the context of traffic mobility data can provide unique insights into driver behavior and actions transportation agencies can pursue to promote safety and efficiency. Using 2019 weather and traffic data along Colorado Highway 119 between Boulder and Longmont, this research analyzed the relationship between adverse weather and traffic conditions. The data were classified into distinct weather types, day of the week, and the direction of travel to capture commuter traffic flows. Novel traffic information crowdsourced from smartphones provided metrics such as volume, speed, trip length, trip duration, and the purpose of travel. The data showed that snow days had a smaller traffic volume than clear and rainy days, with an All Times volume of approximately 18,000 vehicles for each direction of travel, as opposed to 21,000 vehicles for both clear and wet conditions. From a trip purpose perspective, the data showed that the percentage of travel between home and work locations was 21.4% during a snow day compared to 20.6% for rain and 19.6% for clear days. The overall traffic volume reduction during snow days is likely due to drivers deciding to avoid commuting; however, the relative increase in the home–work travel percentage is likely attributable to less discretionary travel in lieu of essential work travel. In comparison, the increase in traffic volume during rainy days may be due to commuters being less likely to walk, bike, or take public transit during inclement weather. This study demonstrates the insight into human behavior by analyzing impact on traffic parameters during adverse weather travel.
A Review of Silver Wire Bonding Techniques
Authors: An Bin , Zhou Hongliang , Cao Jun , Ming Pingmei , Persic John , Yao Jingguang , Chang Andong
Published: November 2023

The replacement of gold bonding wire with silver bonding wire can significantly reduce the cost of wire bonding. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of silver wire bonding technology. Firstly, it introduces various types of silver-based bonding wire currently being studied by researchers, including pure silver wire, alloy silver wire, and coated silver wire, and describes their respective characteristics and development statuses. Secondly, the development of silver-based bonding wire in manufacturing and bonding processes is analyzed, including common silver wire manufacturing processes and their impact on silver wire performance, as well as the impact of bonding parameters on silver wire bonding quality and reliability. Subsequently, the reliability of silver wire bonding is discussed, with a focus on analyzing the effects of corrosion, electromigration, and intermetallic compounds on bonding reliability, including the causes and forms of chlorination and sulfurization, the mechanism and path of electromigration, the formation and evolution of intermetallic compounds, and evaluating their impact on bonding strength and reliability. Finally, the development status of silver wire bonding technology is summarized and future research directions for silver wire are proposed.
Phononic-Crystal-Based SAW Magnetic-Field Sensors
Authors: Samadi Mohsen , Schmalz Julius , Meyer Jana Marie , Lofink Fabian , Gerken Martina
Published: November 2023

In this theoretical study, we explore the enhancement of sensing capabilities in surface acoustic wave (SAW)-based magnetic field sensors through the integration of engineered phononic crystals (PnCs). We particularly focus on amplifying the interaction between the SAW and magnetostrictive materials within the PnC structure. Through comprehensive simulations, we demonstrate the synchronization between the SAWs generated by IDTs and the resonant modes of PnCs, thereby leading to an enhancement in sensitivity. Furthermore, we investigate the ΔE effect, highlighting the sensor’s responsiveness to changes in external magnetic fields, and quantify its magnetic sensitivity through observable changes in the SAW phase velocity leading to phase shifts at the end of the delay line. Notably, our approach yields a magnetic field sensitivity of approximately S~138 °mT for a delay line length of only 77 µm in homogeneous magnetic fields. Our findings underline the potential of PnCs to advance magnetic field sensing. This research offers insights into the integration of engineered materials for improved sensor performance, paving the way for more effective and accurate magnetic field detection solutions.
The Impact of Warming on Assembly Processes and Diversity Patterns of Bacterial Communities in Mesocosms
Authors: Yang Qian , Yan Yifeng , Huang Jinhe , Wang Zhaolei , Feng Mingjun , Cheng Haowu , Zhang Peiyu , Zhang Huan , Xu Jun , Zhang Min
Published: November 2023

Bacteria in lake water bodies and sediments play crucial roles in various biogeochemical processes. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of bacterioplankton and sedimentary bacteria community composition and assembly processes across multiple seasons in 18 outdoor mesocosms exposed to three temperature scenarios. Our findings reveal that warming and seasonal changes play a vital role in shaping microbial diversity, species interactions, and community assembly disparities in water and sediment ecosystems. We observed that the bacterioplankton networks were more fragile, potentially making them susceptible to disturbances, whereas sedimentary bacteria exhibited increased stability. Constant warming and heatwaves had contrasting effects: heatwaves increased stability in both planktonic and sedimentary bacteria communities, but planktonic bacterial networks became more fragile under constant warming. Regarding bacterial assembly, stochastic processes primarily influenced the composition of planktonic and sedimentary bacteria. Constant warming intensified the stochasticity of bacterioplankton year-round, while heatwaves caused a slight shift from stochastic to deterministic in spring and autumn. In contrast, sedimentary bacteria assembly is mainly dominated by drift and remained unaffected by warming. Our study enhances our understanding of how bacterioplankton and sedimentary bacteria communities respond to global warming across multiple seasons, shedding light on the complex dynamics of microbial ecosystems in lakes.
T Cell Response in Tuberculosis-Infected Patients Vaccinated against COVID-19
Authors: Cavalcante-Silva Luiz Henrique Agra , Leite Ericka Garcia , Almeida Fernanda Silva , Andrade Arthur Gomes de , Comberlang Fernando Cézar , Lucena Cintya Karina Rolim , Pachá Anna Stella Cysneiros , Csordas Bárbara Guimarães , Keesen Tatjana S. L.
Published: November 2023

Many studies have focused on SARS-CoV-2 and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) co-infection consequences. However, after a vaccination plan against COVID-19, the cases of severe disease and death are consistently controlled, although cases of asymptomatic and mild COVID-19 still happen together with tuberculosis (TB) cases. Thus, in this context, we sought to compare the T cell response of COVID-19-non-vaccinated and -vaccinated patients with active tuberculosis exposed to SARS-CoV-2 antigens. Flow cytometry was used to analyze activation markers (i.e., CD69 and CD137) and cytokines (IFN-γ, TNFα, IL-17, and IL-10) levels in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells upon exposure to SARS-CoV-2 peptides. The data obtained showed that CD8+ T cells from non-vaccinated TB patients present a high frequency of CD69 and TNF-α after viral challenge compared to vaccinated TB donors. Conversely, CD4+ T cells from vaccinated TB patients show a high frequency of IL-10 after spike peptide stimulus compared to non-vaccinated patients. No differences were observed in the other parameters analyzed. The results suggest that this reduced immune balance in coinfected individuals may have consequences for pathogen control, necessitating further research to understand its impact on clinical outcomes after COVID-19 vaccination in those with concurrent SARS-CoV-2 and Mtb infections.
Changes in Microbial Communities Using Pigs as a Model for Postmortem Interval Estimation
Authors: Yang Fan , Zhang Xiangyan , Hu Sheng , Nie Hao , Gui Peng , Zhong Zengtao , Guo Yadong , Zhao Xingchun
Published: November 2023

Microbial communities can undergo significant successional changes during decay and decomposition, potentially providing valuable insights for determining the postmortem interval (PMI). The microbiota produce various gases that cause cadaver bloating, and rupture releases nutrient-rich bodily fluids into the environment, altering the soil microbiota around the carcasses. In this study, we aimed to investigate the underlying principles governing the succession of microbial communities during the decomposition of pig carcasses and the soil beneath the carcasses. At early decay, the phylum Firmicutes and Bacteroidota were the most abundant in both the winter and summer pig rectum. However, Proteobacteria became the most abundant in the winter pig rectum in late decay. Using genus as a biomarker to estimate the PMI could get the MAE from 1.375 days to 2.478 days based on the RF model. The abundance of bacterial communities showed a decreasing trend with prolonged decomposition time. There were statistically significant differences in microbial diversity in the two periods (pre-rupture and post-rupture) of the four groups (WPG 0–8Dvs. WPG 16–40D, p < 0.0001; WPS 0–16Dvs. WPS 24–40D, p = 0.003; SPG 0D vs. SPG 8–40D, p = 0.0005; and SPS 0D vs. SPS 8–40D, p = 0.0208). Most of the biomarkers in the pre-rupture period belong to obligate anaerobes. In contrast, the biomarkers in the post-rupture period belong to aerobic bacteria. Furthermore, the genus Vagococcus shows a similar increase trend, whether in winter or summer. Together, these results suggest that microbial succession was predictable and can be developed into a forensic tool for estimating the PMI.
Spring Viremia of Carp Virus Infection Induces Carp IL-10 Expression, Both In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Ouyang Ping , Tao Yu , Wei Wenyan , Li Qiunan , Liu Shuya , Ren Yongqiang , Huang Xiaoli , Chen Defang , Geng Yi
Published: November 2023

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a pleiotropic cytokine with both immune enhancement and immunosuppression activities, but the main role is immunosuppression and anti-inflammatory ability. In order to use the immunosuppressive function of IL-10, many viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis B virus and EB virus, can evade the host’s immune surveillance and clearance by increasing the expression of host IL-10. However, it has not been reported whether the aquatic animal infection virus can upregulate the expression of host IL-10 and the mechanisms are still unknown. Spring viremia of carp (SVC) is a fatal viral disease for many fish species and is caused by spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV). This disease has caused significant economic losses in the aquaculture industry worldwide. In this study, the expression of carp IL-10 with or without infection of SVCV in epithelioma papulosum cyprinid (EPC) cells, carp head kidney (cHK) primary cells and common carp tissues were analyzed using RT-PCR and ELISA. The results show that SVCV infection induced carp IL-10 mRNA and protein expression, both in vitro and in vivo. However, the upregulation of carp IL-10 by SVCV was hindered by specific inhibitors of the JAK inhibitor (CP-690550), STAT3 inhibitor (STA-21), NF-κB inhibitor (BAY11-7082) and p38 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) inhibitor (SB202190), but not JNK inhibitor (SP600125). Furthermore, the results demonstrated that JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, TYK2 and STAT5 played important roles in carp IL-10 production induced by SVCV infection. Taken together, SVCV infection significantly induced carp IL-10 expression and the upregulation trigged in JAK-STAT, NF-κB and p38MAPK pathways. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a fish infection virus upregulated the host IL-10 expression through the JAK-STAT, NF-κB and p38MAPK pathways. Altogether, fish viruses may have a similar mechanism as human or other mammalian viruses to escape host immune surveillance and clearance.
Epidemiology of Pneumococcal Pneumonia in Louisville, Kentucky, and Its Estimated Burden of Disease in the United States
Authors: Ramirez Julio , Furmanek Stephen , Chandler Thomas R. , Wiemken Timothy , Peyrani Paula , Arnold Forest , Mattingly William , Wilde Ashley , Bordon Jose , Fernandez-Botran Rafael , Carrico Ruth , Cavallazzi Rodrigo ,   The University of Louisville Pneumonia Study The University of Louisville Pneumonia Study Group
Published: November 2023

Streptococcus pneumoniae remains a primary pathogen in hospitalized patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The objective of this study was to define the epidemiology of pneumococcal pneumonia in Louisville, Kentucky, and to estimate the burden of pneumococcal pneumonia in the United States (US). This study was nested in a prospective population-based cohort study of all adult residents in Louisville, Kentucky, who were hospitalized with CAP from 1 June 2014 to 31 May 2016. In hospitalized patients with CAP, urinary antigen detection of 24 S. pneumoniae serotypes (UAD-24) was performed. The annual population-based pneumococcal pneumonia incidence was calculated. The distribution of S. pneumoniae serotypes was characterized. Ecological associations between pneumococcal pneumonia and income level, race, and age were defined. Mortality was evaluated during hospitalization and at 30 days, 6 months, and 1 year after hospitalization. Among the 5402 CAP patients with a UAD-24 test performed, 708 (13%) patients had pneumococcal pneumonia. The annual cumulative incidence was 93 pneumococcal pneumonia hospitalizations per 100,000 adults (95% CI = 91–95), corresponding to an estimated 226,696 annual pneumococcal pneumonia hospitalizations in the US. The most frequent serotypes were 19A (12%), 3 (11%), and 22F (11%). Clusters of cases were found in areas with low incomes and a higher proportion of Black or African American population. Pneumococcal pneumonia mortality was 3.7% during hospitalization, 8.2% at 30 days, 17.6% at 6 months, and 25.4% at 1 year after hospitalization. The burden of pneumococcal pneumonia in the US remains significant, with an estimate of more than 225,000 adults hospitalized annually, and approximately 1 out of 4 hospitalized adult patients dies within 1 year after hospitalization.
Notch Signaling Regulates the Function and Phenotype of Dendritic Cells in Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Liu Qiaoyuan , Chen Chuxi , He Yunxuan , Mai Wenhao , Ruan Shipeng , Ning Yunshan , Li Yan
Published: November 2023

Notch signaling manipulates the function and phenotype of dendritic cells (DCs), as well as the interaction between DCs and CD4+ T cells. However, the role of Notch signaling in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection remains elusive. Murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) were pretreated in the absence or presence of Notch signaling inhibitor DAPT prior to H. pylori stimulation and the levels of Notch components, cytokines and surface markers as well as the differentiation of CD4+ T cells in co-culture were measured using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry. Compared with the control, the mRNA expression of all Notch receptors and Notch ligands Dll4 and Jagged1 was up-regulated in H. pylori-stimulated BMDCs. The blockade of Notch signaling by DAPT influenced the production of IL-1β and IL-10 in H. pylori-pulsed BMDCs, and reduced the expression of Notch1, Notch3, Notch4, Dll1, Dll3 and Jagged2. In addition, DAPT pretreatment decreased the expression of maturation markers CD80, CD83, CD86, and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) of BMDCs, and further skewed Th17/Treg balance toward Treg. Notch signaling regulates the function and phenotype of DCs, thus mediating the differentiation of CD4+ T cells during H. pylori infection.
Geochemical Evidence for Genesis of Nb–Ta–Be Rare Metal Mineralization in Highly Fractionated Leucogranites at the Lalong Dome, Tethyan Himalaya, China
Authors: Fu Jiangang , Li Guangming , Wang Genhou , Guo Weikang , Dong Suiliang , Li Yingxu , Zhang Hai , Liang Wei , Jiao Yanjie
Published: November 2023

Leucogranites in the Lalong Dome are composed of two-mica granite, muscovite granite, albite granite, and pegmatite from core to rim. Albite granite-type Be–Nb–Ta rare metal ore bodies are hosted by albite granite and pegmatite. Based on field and petrographic observations and whole-rock geochemical data, highly differentiated leucogranites have been identified in the Lalong Dome. Two-mica granites, albite granites, and pegmatites yielded monazite ages of 23.6 Ma, 21.9 Ma, and 20.6 Ma, respectively. The timing of rare metal mineralization is 20.9 Ma using U–Pb columbite dating. Leucogranites have the following characteristics: high SiO2 content (>73 wt.%); peraluminosity with high Al2O3 content (13.6–15.2 wt.%) and A/CNK (mostly > 1.1); low TiO2, CaO, and MgO content; enrichment of Rb, Th, and U; depletion of Ba, Nb, Zr, Sr, and Ti; strong negative Eu anomalies; low εNd(t) values ranging from −12.7 to −9.77. These features show that the leucogranites are crust-derived high-potassium calc-alkaline and peraluminous S-type granites derived from muscovite dehydration melting under the water-absent condition, which possibly resulted from structural decompression responding to the activity of the South Tibetan detachment system (STDS). Geochemical data imply a continuous magma fractional crystallization process from two-mica granites through muscovite granites to albite granites and pegmatites. The differentiation index (Di) gradually strengthens from two-mica granite, muscovite granite, and albite granite to pegmatite, in which albite granite and pegmatite are highest (Di = 94). The Nb/Ta and Zr/Hf ratios of albite granite and pegmatite were less than 5 and 18, respectively, which suggests that albite granite and pegmatite belong to rare metal granites and have excellent potential for rare metal mineralization.
Mechanical and Microstructural Response of Iron Ore Tailings under Low and High Pressures Considering a Wide Range of Molding Characteristics
Authors: Bruschi Giovani Jordi , Santos Carolina Pereira Dos , Filho Hugo Carlos Scheuermann , da Silva Martinatto Camila , Schulz Luana Rutz , Silva João Paulo de Sousa , Consoli Nilo Cesar
Published: November 2023

The dry stacking of filtered tailings is an option to deal with safety-related issues involving traditional slurry disposition in impoundments. Filtered tailings can be compacted to pre-define design specifications, which minimizes structural instability problems, such as those related to liquefaction. Yet, comprehending the tailing’s response under various stress states is essential to designing any dry stacking facility properly. Thus, the present research evaluated the mechanical response of cemented and uncemented compacted filtered iron ore tailings, considering different molding characteristics related to compaction degree and molding moisture content. Therefore, a series of one-dimensional compression tests and consolidated isotropically drained triaxial tests (CID), using 300 kPa and 3000 kPa effective confining pressures, were carried out for different specimens compacted at various molding characteristics. In addition, changes in gradation owing to both compression and shearing were evaluated using sedimentation with scanning electron microscope tests. The overall results have indicated that the 3% Portland cement addition enhanced the strength and stiffness of the compacted iron ore tailings, considering the lower confining pressure. Nevertheless, the same was not evidenced for the higher confining stress. Moreover, the dry-side molded specimens were initially stiffer, and significant particle breakage did not occur owing to one-dimensional compression but only due to shearing (triaxial condition).
New Meroterpenoid Derivatives from the Pomegranate-Derived Endophytic Fungus Talaromyces purpureogenus
Authors: Anwar Alaa , Elnaggar Mohamed S. , Elissawy Ahmed M. , Ibrahim Nehal , Mándi Attila , Kurtán Tibor , Liu Zhen , El-Ahmady Sherweit H. , Kalscheuer Rainer
Published: November 2023

In this study, we report the isolation of two new meroterpenoids, miniolutelide D (1) and miniolutelide E (13-epi-miniolutelide C) (2), along with two meroterpenoidal analogues (3 and 4) and two phenolic compounds (5 and 6) from the endophytic fungus Talaromyces purpureogenus derived from Punica granatum fruits. Their structures were elucidated using extensive MS, 1D, and 2D NMR spectroscopic analyses as well as by comparing with data in the literature. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined using TDDFT-ECD calculations. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated. Compound 5 displayed significant activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain ATCC 700699 and moderate activity against S. aureus strain ATCC 29213.
Catalytic System for Cross-Coupling of Heteroaryl Iodides with a Nitronyl Nitroxide Gold Derivative at Room Temperature
Authors: Zayakin Igor , Romanenko Galina , Bagryanskaya Irina , Ugrak Bogdan , Fedin Matvey , Tretyakov Evgeny
Published: November 2023

A simple and highly effective methodology for the cross-coupling of heteroaryl iodides with NN–AuPPh3 at room temperature is reported. The protocol is based on a novel catalytic system consisting of Pd2(dba)3·CHCl3 and the phosphine ligand MeCgPPh having an adamantane-like framework. The present protocol was found to be well compatible with various heteroaryl iodides, thus opening new horizons in directed synthesis of functionalized nitronyl nitroxides and high-spin molecules.
Anti-Ulcerative Colitis Effects and Active Ingredients in Ethyl Acetate Extract from Decoction of Sargentodoxa cuneata
Authors: Yu Piao , Xu Feng , Wu Hongmei , Wang Xiangpei , Ding Qin , Zhang Mei , Fang Rongze , Qin Ping
Published: November 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an intractable disease prevalent worldwide. While ethyl acetate extract from decoction of Sargentodoxa cuneata (EAdSc) has potential anti-inflammatory activity, its effects on UC remain unknown. In this study, the constituent compounds discussed in the literature and identified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC–MS) were collected, and the blood-soluble components of EAdSc were identified by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking analysis were performed to explore the potential underlying mechanism and active ingredients of EAdSc against UC. Furthermore, mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC were used to study the therapeutic effects and validate the mechanism of EAdSc against UC. A total of 53 compounds from EAdSc were identified in the literature and by GC–MS, and 22 blood-soluble EAdSc components were recognized. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that multiple inflammatory signaling pathways are involved in EAdSc’s anti-UC activity. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis showed that the eleutheroside A, liriodendrin, epicatechin, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, catechin, androsin, coumaroyltyramine, and catechol may be active against UC through the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. EAdSc reduced the disease activity, macroscopic colon damage, and histological damage indices, as well as inhibiting DSS-induced spleen enlargement and colon shortening. In addition, EAdSc decreased the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-17, as well as the expression of TLR4, NF-κB p65, NLRP3, and Caspase-1 mRNA in colon tissues. These results provide insights into the anti-UC effects and underlying mechanisms of EAdSc and help elucidate the active ingredients of EAdSc in the treatment of UC.
Electrochemiluminescence Aptasensor with Dual Signal Amplification by Silica Nanochannel-Based Confinement Effect on Nanocatalyst and Efficient Emitter Enrichment for Highly Sensitive Detection of C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Ma Ning , Xu Shuai , Wu Weidong , Liu Jiyang
Published: November 2023

The rapid and sensitive detection of the important biomarker C-reactive protein (CRP) is of great significance for monitoring inflammation and tissue damage. In this work, an electrochemiluminescence (ECL) aptasensor was fabricated based on dual signal amplification for the sensitive detection of CRP in serum samples. The sensor was constructed by modifying a silica nanochannel array film (SNF) on a cost-effective indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode using the Stöber solution growth method. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were grown in situ within the nanochannels using a simple electrodeposition method as a nanocatalyst to enhance the active electrode area as well as the ECL signal. The negatively charged nanochannels also significantly enriched the positively charged ECL emitters, further amplifying the signal. The recognition aptamer was covalently immobilized on the outer surface of SNF after modification with epoxy groups, constructing the aptasensor. In the presence of CRP, the formation of complexes on the recognitive interface led to a decrease in the diffusion of ECL emitters and co-reactants to the supporting electrode, resulting in a reduction in the ECL signal. Based on this mechanism, ECL detection of CRP was achieved with a linear range of 10 pg/mL to 1 μg/mL and a low limit of detection (7.4 pg/mL). The ECL aptasensor developed in this study offers advantages such as simple fabrication and high sensitivity, making promising applications in biomarker detection.
Scandium Radioisotopes—Toward New Targets and Imaging Modalities
Authors: Kilian Krzysztof , Pyrzyńska Krystyna
Published: November 2023

The concept of theranostics uses radioisotopes of the same or chemically similar elements to label biological ligands in a way that allows the use of diagnostic and therapeutic radiation for a combined diagnosis and treatment regimen. For scandium, radioisotopes -43 and -44 can be used as diagnostic markers, while radioisotope scandium-47 can be used in the same configuration for targeted therapy. This work presents the latest achievements in the production and processing of radioisotopes and briefly characterizes solutions aimed at increasing the availability of these radioisotopes for research and clinical practice.
Degradation of Pesticides Using Semiconducting and Tetrapyrrolic Macrocyclic Photocatalysts—A Concise Review
Authors: Piccirillo Giusi , De Sousa Rodrigo B. , Dias Lucas D. , Calvete Mário J. F.
Published: November 2023

Exposure to pesticides is inevitable in modern times, and their environmental presence is strongly associated to the development of various malignancies. This challenge has prompted an increased interest in finding more sustainable ways of degrading pesticides. Advanced oxidation processes in particular appear as highly advantageous, due to their ability of selectively removing chemical entities form wastewaters. This review provides a concise introduction to the mechanisms of photochemical advanced oxidation processes with an objective perspective, followed by a succinct literature review on the photodegradation of pesticides utilizing metal oxide-based semiconductors as photosensitizing catalysts. The selection of reports discussed here is based on relevance and impact, which are recognized globally, ensuring rigorous scrutiny. Finally, this literature review explores the use of tetrapyrrolic macrocyclic photosensitizers in pesticide photodegradation, analyzing their benefits and limitations and providing insights into future directions.
A Simple, Rapid, and Effective Heparinase Protocol to Enable Nucleic Acid Study from Frozen Heparinized Plasma
Authors: Afruza Rownock , Minerva Nicole , Lack Justin B. , Chakraborty Moumita , Haddad James A. , Ali Rabab O. , Koh Christopher , Levy Elliot B. , Etzion Ohad , Heller Theo
Published: November 2023

Cell-free RNAs (cfRNAs) are promising analytes as non-invasive biomarkers and have even greater potential if tied in with metabolomics. Plasma is an optimal source for cfRNAs but is often derived from a variety of anticoagulants. Plasma obtained in heparin is suitable for metabolomics but is difficult to utilize for qPCR-based downstream analysis. In the present study, we aimed to develop a simple, time-efficient, and cost-effective heparinase protocol, followed by library preparation and sequencing of human plasma cfRNAs drawn and stored in heparin at −80 °C for several years. Blood was collected in CPT™ sodium heparin tubes from patients with chronic HCV infection (NCT02400216) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center. Plasma cfRNAs were treated with heparinase I and used for library preparation and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Heparinase treatment maintained RNA integrity and allowed for successful library preparation for all the study subjects even with 7 ng of cfRNAs as starting material. The classification report derived from Pavian R package v1.2.0 showed no artificial reads. The abundance of chordate over microbial reads suggests no addition of experimental error through heparinase I treatment. We report a novel and practical approach to heparinase treatment for human plasma collected and frozen in sodium heparin for several years. This is an effective demonstration of utilizing heparin plasma for NGS and downstream transcriptomic research, which could then be integrated with metabolomics from the same samples, maximizing efficiency and minimizing blood draws.
Template-Free Manufacturing of Defined Structure and Size Polymeric Microparticles
Authors: Abdurashitov Arkady S. , Proshin Pavel I. , Sukhorukov Gleb B.
Published: November 2023

Complex-structured polymeric microparticles hold significant promise as an advance in next-generation medicine mostly due to demand from developing targeted drug delivery. However, the conventional methods for producing these microparticles of defined size, shape, and sophisticated composition often face challenges in scalability, reliance on specialized components such as micro-patterned templates, or limited control over particle size distribution and cargo (functional payload) release kinetics. In this study, we introduce a novel and reliably scalable approach for manufacturing microparticles of defined structures and sizes with variable parameters. The concept behind this method involves the deposition of a specific number of polymer layers on a substrate with low surface energy. Each layer can serve as either the carrier for cargo or a programmable shell-former with predefined permeability. Subsequently, this layered structure is precisely cut into desired-size blanks (particle precursors) using a laser. The manufacturing process is completed by applying heat to the substrate, which results in sealing the edges of the blanks. The combination of the high surface tension of the molten polymer and the low surface energy of the substrate enables the formation of discrete particles, each possessing semi-spherical or other designed geometries determined by their internal composition. Such anisotropic microparticles are envisaged to have versatile applications.
Deep-Ultraviolet Transparent Electrode Design for High-Performance and Self-Powered Perovskite Photodetector
Authors: Nguyen Thi My Huyen , Tran Manh Hoang , Bark Chung Wung
Published: November 2023

In this study, a highly crystalline and transparent indium-tin-oxide (ITO) thin film was prepared on a quartz substrate via RF sputtering to fabricate an efficient bottom-to-top illuminated electrode for an ultraviolet C (UVC) photodetector. Accordingly, the 26.6 nm thick ITO thin film, which was deposited using the sputtering method followed by post-annealing treatment, exhibited good transparency to deep-UV spectra (67% at a wavelength of 254 nm), along with high electrical conductivity (11.3 S/cm). Under 254 nm UVC illumination, the lead-halide-perovskite-based photodetector developed on the prepared ITO electrode in a vertical structure exhibited an excellent on/off ratio of 1.05 × 104, a superb responsivity of 250.98 mA/W, and a high specific detectivity of 4.71 × 1012 Jones without external energy consumption. This study indicates that post-annealed ITO ultrathin films can be used as electrodes that satisfy both the electrical conductivity and deep-UV transparency requirements for high-performance bottom-illuminated optoelectronic devices, particularly for use in UVC photodetectors.