bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Protective Effects of Unripe Apple (Malus pumila) Extract on Ultraviolet B-Induced Skin Photoaging Mouse Model
Authors: Park Hye Rim , Kim Jae Kwang , Lee Jae Kyoung , Choi Beom Rak , Ku Sae Kwang , Jegal Kyung Hwan
Published: April 2023

An unripe apple (immature fruit of Malus pumila Mill) contains more polyphenols than mature fruit. To explore the anti-photoaging effects of unripe apple extract (UAE), we investigated the effects of UAE on wrinkle improvement, skin moisturizing, skin inflammation, and antioxidant activities using the ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated SKH1-hr hairless mouse model. The mice were irradiated with UVB (0.18 J/cm2) three times per week and orally administrated UAE (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg) once a day for 15 weeks. The administration of UAE significantly prevented UVB-induced wrinkle formation and skin water loss, potentially by increasing the effects of UAE on type I collagen (COL1) and hyaluronic acid through the transcriptional regulation of COL1α (COL1A1 and COL1A2), hyaluronan synthesis (HAS1, HAS2, and HAS3) and the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP1, MMP9, and MMP13) gene. Moreover, UAE significantly reduced UVB-induced skin edema, infiltrated neutrophils, and pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β), while increasing the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. UAE also exerted anti-oxidative stress properties by increasing the glutathione content and inhibiting lipid peroxidation and superoxide anion production. The histopathological analysis demonstrated that UAE-induced anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative stress, and anti-apoptotic properties on the UVB-irradiated skin tissues. Therefore, UAE may be an effective natural resource to mitigate UVB-induced skin photoaging.
A Review of Fault Diagnosis Methods for Key Systems of the High-Speed Train
Authors: Xie Suchao , Tan Hongchuang , Yang Chengxing , Yan Hongyu
Published: April 2023

High-speed train is a large-scale electromechanical coupling equipment with a complex structure, where the coupling is interlaced between various system components, and the excitation sources are complex and diverse. Therefore, reliability has become the top priority for the safe operation of high-speed trains. As the operating mileage of high-speed trains increases, various key systems experience various degrees of performance degradation and damage failures. Moreover, it is accompanied by the influence of external environmental high interference noise and weak early fault information. Thus, those factors are serious challenges for the condition monitoring and fault diagnosis of high-speed trains. Therefore, this paper summarizes the research progress and theoretical results of the fault detection, fault isolation, and fault diagnosis methods of the key systems of high-speed trains. Finally, the paper summarizes the applicability of the main methods, discusses the challenges and opportunities of condition monitoring and fault diagnosis of high-speed trains, and looks forward to improving its diagnosis level.
Implementation of Constrained Swept Synthetic Aperture Using a Mechanical Fixture
Authors: Bottenus Nick
Published: April 2023

Resolution and target detectability in ultrasound imaging are directly tied to the size of the imaging array. This is particularly important for imaging at depth, such as in the detection and diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma and other lesions in the liver. Swept synthetic aperture (SSA) imaging has shown promise for building large effective apertures from small physical arrays using motion but has required bulky fixtures and external motion tracking for precise positioning. This study presents an approach that constrains the transducer motion with a simple linear sliding fixture and estimates motion from the ultrasound data itself using either speckle tracking or channel correlation. This work demonstrates, through simulation and phantom experiments, the ability of both techniques to accurately estimate lateral transducer motion and form SSA images with improved resolution and target detectability. In simulation, errors were observed under 83 μm across a 50 mm sweep, and improvements were found of up to 61% in resolution and up to 33% in lesion detectability experimentally even imaging through ex vivo tissue layers. This approach will increase the accessibility of SSA imaging and allow researchers to test its use in clinical settings.
Special Issue on Metal-Based Composite Materials: Preparation, Structure, Properties and Applications
Authors: Suzdaltsev Andrey , Rakhmanova Oksana
Published: April 2023

The Special Issue is aimed at analyzing modern trends and recent advances in the synthesis of new metal-based composite materials [...]
The Combined Effect of Calcium Chloride and Cement on Expansive Soil Materials
Authors: Almajed Abdullah , Dafalla Muawia , Shaker Abdullah A.
Published: April 2023

In this study, the chemical stabilization of moderately to highly plastic expansive soil using calcium chloride with added cement is introduced as an effective alternative to the conventional approaches using a single additive such as lime, cement, or a by-product of industrial processes. Using only calcium chloride may lead to its leaching or dissolution over time, leaving a collapsing skeleton with weak bonds. The chemical effect produced by additives is dependent on the constituents of the stabilized soil and the curing period considered. Herein, calcium chloride concentrations of 2%, 4%, and 8% with the addition of 2% cement by dry weight of the soil were considered. The main objective of this study is to investigate the addition of a low amount of cement as a binder to improve the strength and durability of a chemically treated expansive soil. The engineering properties were investigated at 3 curing times: 3 days, 7 days, and 28 days. A laboratory investigation was carried out to investigate the effect of the addition of calcium chloride with cement on the swell potential, swell pressure, compression index, suction, and unconfined compressive strength. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) testing was conducted. The X-ray diffraction patterns were recorded to observe the mineralogy of the material. The results confirmed that calcium chloride with cement is very effective for stabilizing the expansive soil. A reduction in the swell potential by 8% and 25% and a reduction in swelling pressure by 28% and 37.4% were observed for 4% and 8% calcium chloride with cement addition. The compression index decreased with the increase in the calcium chloride content.
Slope Deflection Method in Nonlocal Axially Functionally Graded Tapered Beams
Authors: Demirkan Erol , Çelik Murat , Artan Reha
Published: April 2023

In this study, the slope deflection method was presented for structures made of small-scaled axially functionally graded beams with a variable cross section within the scope of nonlocal elasticity theory. The small-scale effect between individual atoms cannot be neglected when the structures are small in size. Therefore, the theory of nonlocal elasticity is used throughout. The stiffness coefficients and fixed-end moments are calculated using the method of initial values. With this method, the solution of the differential equation system is reduced to the solution of the linear equation system. The given transfer matrix is unique and the problem can be easily solved for any end condition and loading. In this problem, double integrals occur in terms of the transfer matrix. However, this form is not suitable for numerical calculations. With the help of Cauchy’s repeated integration formula, the transfer matrix is given in terms of single integrals. The analytical or numerical calculation of single integrals is easier than the numerical or analytical calculation of double integrals. It is demonstrated that the nonlocal effect plays an important role in the fixed-end moments of small-scaled beams.
Influence of L-PRF Topical Application on Bone Tissue Healing after Surgical Extraction of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars: Randomized Split-Mouth Clinical Study
Authors: Tadic Ana , Bajkin Branislav , Mijatov Ivana , Mirnic Jelena , Vukoje Karolina , Sokac Mario , Vukelic Djordje
Published: April 2023

The beneficial effect of autologous blood products in the post-extraction period has been proven regarding acceleration of soft tissue healing, pain reduction, swelling and trismus, but data concerning bone healing are contradictory. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of L-PRF on bone tissue healing after third mandibular molar extraction. Extractions of bilateral, symmetrical, impacted mandibular molars were performed in 30 patients, in a prospective split-mouth, randomized, double-blind clinical trial. L-PRF was applied to one alveolus, while the other alveolus was left to heal spontaneously. A sample of 60 extraction alveoli (the control and experimental groups, with 30 alveoli each) was analyzed. Two CBCT images were performed immediately after the surgery and eight weeks postoperatively to reconstruct the healing site and analyze the volume of the extraction defect and bone density. The depth of the periodontal pocket on the adjacent tooth was clinically measured 7 days and 8 weeks after extraction. The results show that the minimum and maximum values of the monitored parameters in the alveoli in both the control and experimental groups are within the expected range. Based on p = 0.826 (MANOVA; for I measurement) and p = 0.499 (MANOVA; for II measurement), it was concluded that no significant difference and clearly defined boundary between the groups were observed. Considering that p > 0.1 (VOL, bone density, periodontal pocket) is for both I and II measurement, no significant difference was observed between the groups regarding the wound volume, bone density and periodontal pocket.
Introducing a Simple Method to Investigate Relative Volatilities of Flavour Compounds in Fruit Brandies
Authors: Yagishita Manami , Kölling Ralf , Einfalt Daniel
Published: April 2023

Determination of relative volatilities of flavour compounds in hydro-alcoholic solutions is usually performed by time-consuming and costly standard methods such as the Gillespie dynamic recirculation method. This study tested a quick and easy method with a simple distillation apparatus for measuring empirical relative volatilities. A total of 17 representative flavour compounds of apple and pear brandies were selected and investigated for their relative volatilities. This also included so far unpublished relative volatilities of one alcohol (2-butanol), one aldehyde (hexanal), one ketone (β-damascenone), and three esters (ethyl butyrate, butyl acetate, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate). Relative volatilities of three alcohols (methanol, isobutanol, and isoamyl alcohol), one ester (ethyl acetate), one aldehyde (acetaldehyde), and one acetal (1,1-diethoxyethane) were compared to reference data. All compounds, except for 1,1-diethoxyethane, showed a high correlation with the reference data. Vapour–liquid equilibrium for an ethanol–water mixture showed a high correlation with the reference data (r > 0.9). In accordance with the high correlation levels, we suggest that the simple distillation apparatus is a fast and simple alternative to the standard method.
Spatial Dependence of Log-Transformed Electromyography–Force Relation: Model-Based Sensitivity Analysis and Experimental Study of Biceps Brachii
Authors: Huang Chengjun , Chen Maoqi , Lu Zhiyuan , Klein Cliff S. , Zhou Ping
Published: April 2023

This study investigated electromyography (EMG)–force relations using both simulated and experimental approaches. A motor neuron pool model was first implemented to simulate EMG–force signals, focusing on three different conditions that test the effects of small or large motor units located more or less superficially in the muscle. It was found that the patterns of the EMG–force relations varied significantly across the simulated conditions, quantified by the slope (b) of the log-transformed EMG-force relation. b was significantly higher for large motor units, which were preferentially located superficially rather than for random depth or deep depth conditions (p < 0.001). The log-transformed EMG–force relations in the biceps brachii muscles of nine healthy subjects were examined using a high-density surface EMG. The slope (b) distribution of the relation across the electrode array showed a spatial dependence; b in the proximal region was significantly larger than the distal region, whereas b was not different between the lateral and medial regions. The findings of this study provide evidence that the log-transformed EMG–force relations are sensitive to different motor unit spatial distributions. The slope (b) of this relation may prove to be a useful adjunct measure in the investigation of muscle or motor unit changes associated with disease, injury, or aging.
Metformin Collaborates with PINK1/Mfn2 Overexpression to Prevent Cardiac Injury by Improving Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Ma Zhuang , Liu Zuheng , Li Xudong , Zhang Hao , Han Dunzheng , Xiong Wenjun , Zhou Haobin , Yang Xi , Zeng Qingchun , Ren Hao , Xu Dingli
Published: April 2023

Both mitochondrial quality control and energy metabolism are critical in maintaining the physiological function of cardiomyocytes. When damaged mitochondria fail to be repaired, cardiomyocytes initiate a process referred to as mitophagy to clear defective mitochondria, and studies have shown that PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) plays an important role in this process. In addition, previous studies indicated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) is a transcriptional coactivator that promotes mitochondrial energy metabolism, and mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) promotes mitochondrial fusion, which is beneficial for cardiomyocytes. Thus, an integration strategy involving mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy might contribute to improved cardiomyocyte function. We studied the function of PINK1 in mitophagy in isoproterenol (Iso)-induced cardiomyocyte injury and transverse aortic constriction (TAC)-induced myocardial hypertrophy. Adenovirus vectors were used to induce PINK1/Mfn2 protein overexpression. Cardiomyocytes treated with isoproterenol (Iso) expressed high levels of PINK1 and low levels of Mfn2, and the changes were time dependent. PINK1 overexpression promoted mitophagy, attenuated the Iso-induced reduction in MMP, and reduced ROS production and the apoptotic rate. Cardiac-specific overexpression of PINK1 improved cardiac function, attenuated pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, and facilitated myocardial mitophagy in TAC mice. Moreover, metformin treatment and PINK1/Mfn2 overexpression reduced mitochondrial dysfunction by inhibiting ROS generation leading to an increase in both ATP production and mitochondrial membrane potential in Iso-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Our findings indicate that a combination strategy may help ameliorate myocardial injury by improving mitochondrial quality.
Gender-Related Differences in the Correlation between Odor Threshold, Discrimination, Identification, and Cognitive Reserve Index in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Masala Carla , Solla Paolo , Loy Francesco
Published: April 2023

Background: Many studies suggested that olfactory function could be associated with semantic memory, executive function, and verbal fluency. However, the gender-related association between olfactory function and the cognitive domain is not well investigated. The aim of this study was to estimate gender-related differences in the relationship between olfactory function and each specific cognitive domain of the Cognitive Reserve Index (CRI) questionnaire, such as education, working activity, and leisure time in healthy subjects. Methods: Two hundred and sixty-nine participants were recruited (158 women and 111 men), with a mean age of 48.1 ± 18.6 years. The CRI questionnaire and Sniffin’ Sticks test were used to evaluate the cognitive reserve and the olfactory function, respectively. Results: In all subjects, significant associations between the odor threshold versus CRI-Education, between the odor discrimina-tion and identification versus CRI-Working activity and CRI-Leisure Time, were found. In women, odor threshold, discrimination, and identification were associated with CRI-Leisure Time, while in men, only a significant association between odor threshold and CRI-Education was observed. Conclusions: Our data, showing significant gender-related associations between olfactory function and CRI scores, suggested the use of olfactory evaluation and cognitive reserve as an important screening tool for the early detection of mild cognitive impairment.
Metalloproteinases and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Serraino Giuseppe Filiberto , Jiritano Federica , Costa Davide , Ielapi Nicola , Napolitano Desirèe , Mastroroberto Pasquale , Bracale Umberto Marcello , Andreucci Michele , Serra Raffaele
Published: April 2023

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic condition determined by an altered collagen turnover of the extracellular matrix. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs) are abnormally released in patients with HCM. The purpose of this systematic review was to thoroughly summarize and discuss the existing knowledge of MMPs profile in patients with HCM. All studies meeting the inclusion criteria (detailed data regarding MMPs in patients with HCM) were selected, after screening the literature from July 1975 to November 2022. Sixteen trials that enrolled a total of 892 participants were included. MMPs–particularly MMP2—levels were found higher in HCM patients compared to healthy subjects. MMPs were used as biomarkers after surgical and percutaneous treatments. Understanding the molecular processes that control the cardiac ECM’s collagen turnover allows for a non-invasive evaluation of HCM patients through the monitoring of MMPs and TIMPs.
Age-Related Modifications of Electroencephalogram Coherence in Mice Models of Alzheimer’s Disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Vorobyov Vasily , Deev Alexander , Chaprov Kirill , Ustyugov Aleksey A. , Lysikova Ekaterina
Published: April 2023

Evident similarities in pathological features in aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) raise the question of a role for natural age-related adaptive mechanisms in the prevention/elimination of disturbances in interrelations between different brain areas. In our previous electroencephalogram (EEG) studies on 5xFAD- and FUS-transgenic mice, as models of AD and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), this suggestion was indirectly confirmed. In the current study, age-related changes in direct EEG synchrony/coherence between the brain structures were evaluated. Methods: In 5xFAD mice of 6-, 9-, 12-, and 18-month ages and their wild-type (WT5xFAD) littermates, we analyzed baseline EEG coherence between the cortex, hippocampus/putamen, ventral tegmental area, and substantia nigra. Additionally, EEG coherence between the cortex and putamen was analyzed in 2- and 5-month-old FUS mice. Results: In the 5xFAD mice, suppressed levels of inter-structural coherence vs. those in WT5xFAD littermates were observed at ages of 6, 9, and 12 months. In 18-month-old 5xFAD mice, only the hippocampus ventral tegmental area coherence was significantly reduced. In 2-month-old FUS vs. WTFUS mice, the cortex–putamen coherence suppression, dominated in the right hemisphere, was observed. In 5-month-old mice, EEG coherence was maximal in both groups. Conclusion: Neurodegenerative pathologies are accompanied by the significant attenuation of intracerebral EEG coherence. Our data are supportive for the involvement of age-related adaptive mechanisms in intracerebral disturbances produced by neurodegeneration.
TP53 Alterations in Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Rahmé Ramy , Braun Thorsten , Manfredi James J. , Fenaux Pierre
Published: April 2023

TP53 mutations are less frequent in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) than in solid tumors, except in secondary and therapy-related MDS/AMLs, and in cases with complex monosomal karyotype. As in solid tumors, missense mutations predominate, with the same hotspot mutated codons (particularly codons 175, 248, 273). As TP53-mutated MDS/AMLs are generally associated with complex chromosomal abnormalities, it is not always clear when TP53 mutations occur in the pathophysiological process. It is also uncertain in these MDS/AML cases, which often have inactivation of both TP53 alleles, if the missense mutation is only deleterious through the absence of a functional p53 protein, or through a potential dominant-negative effect, or finally a gain-of-function effect of mutant p53, as demonstrated in some solid tumors. Understanding when TP53 mutations occur in the disease course and how they are deleterious would help to design new treatments for those patients who generally show poor response to all therapeutic approaches.
Physiological Associations between Vitamin B Deficiency and Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wu Henry H. L. , McDonnell Thomas , Chinnadurai Rajkumar
Published: April 2023

The number of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is growing as our global population continues to expand. With aging, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease being major harbingers of kidney disease, the number of people diagnosed with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) has grown concurrently. Poor clinical outcomes in DKD could be influenced by an array of factors—inadequate glycemic control, obesity, metabolic acidosis, anemia, cellular senescence, infection and inflammation, cognitive impairment, reduced physical exercise threshold, and, importantly, malnutrition contributing to protein-energy wasting, sarcopenia, and frailty. Amongst the various causes of malnutrition in DKD, the metabolic mechanisms of vitamin B (B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin/Nicotinamide), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B6 (Pyridoxine), B8 (Biotin), B9 (Folate), and B12 (Cobalamin)) deficiency and its clinical impact has garnered greater scientific interest over the past decade. There remains extensive debate on the biochemical intricacies of vitamin B metabolic pathways and how their deficiencies may affect the development of CKD, diabetes, and subsequently DKD, and vice-versa. Our article provides a review of updated evidence on the biochemical and physiological properties of the vitamin B sub-forms in normal states, and how vitamin B deficiency and defects in their metabolic pathways may influence CKD/DKD pathophysiology, and in reverse how CKD/DKD progression may affect vitamin B metabolism. We hope our article increases awareness of vitamin B deficiency in DKD and the complex physiological associations that exist between vitamin B deficiency, diabetes, and CKD. Further research efforts are needed going forward to address the knowledge gaps on this topic.
Applications of Transistor-Based Biochemical Sensors
Authors: Gao Qiya , Fu Jie , Li Shuang , Ming Dong
Published: April 2023

Transistor-based biochemical sensors feature easy integration with electronic circuits and non-invasive real-time detection. They have been widely used in intelligent wearable devices, electronic skins, and biological analyses and have shown broad application prospects in intelligent medical detection. Field-effect transistor (FET) sensors have high sensitivity, reasonable specificity, rapid response, and portability and provide unique signal amplification during biochemical detection. Organic field-effect transistor (OFET) sensors are lightweight, flexible, foldable, and biocompatible with wearable devices. Organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) sensors convert biological signals in body fluids into electrical signals for artificial intelligence analysis. In addition to biochemical markers in body fluids, electrophysiology indicators such as electrocardiogram (ECG) signals and body temperature can also cause changes in the current or voltage of transistor-based biochemical sensors. When modified with sensitive substances, sensors can detect specific analytes, improve sensitivity, broaden the detection range, and reduce the limit of detection (LoD). In this review, we introduce three kinds of transistor-based biochemical sensors: FET, OFET, and OECT. We also discuss the fabrication processes for transistor sources, drains, and gates. Furthermore, we demonstrated three sensor types for body fluid biomarkers, electrophysiology signals, and development trends. Transistor-based biochemical sensors exhibit excellent potential in multi-mode intelligent analysis and are good candidates for the next generation of intelligent point-of-care testing (iPOCT).
Brain Tumor Segmentation Network with Multi-View Ensemble Discrimination and Kernel-Sharing Dilated Convolution
Authors: Guan Xin , Zhao Yushan , Nyatega Charles Okanda , Li Qiang
Published: April 2023

Accurate segmentation of brain tumors from magnetic resonance 3D images (MRI) is critical for clinical decisions and surgical planning. Radiologists usually separate and analyze brain tumors by combining images of axial, coronal, and sagittal views. However, traditional convolutional neural network (CNN) models tend to use information from only a single view or one by one. Moreover, the existing models adopt a multi-branch structure with different-size convolution kernels in parallel to adapt to various tumor sizes. However, the difference in the convolution kernels’ parameters cannot precisely characterize the feature similarity of tumor lesion regions with various sizes, connectivity, and convexity. To address the above problems, we propose a hierarchical multi-view convolution method that decouples the standard 3D convolution into axial, coronal, and sagittal views to provide complementary-view features. Then, every pixel is classified by ensembling the discriminant results from the three views. Moreover, we propose a multi-branch kernel-sharing mechanism with a dilated rate to obtain parameter-consistent convolution kernels with different receptive fields. We use the BraTS2018 and BraTS2020 datasets for comparison experiments. The average Dice coefficients of the proposed network on the BraTS2020 dataset can reach 78.16%, 89.52%, and 83.05% for the enhancing tumor (ET), whole tumor (WT), and tumor core (TC), respectively, while the number of parameters is only 0.5 M. Compared with the baseline network for brain tumor segmentation, the accuracy was improved by 1.74%, 0.5%, and 2.19%, respectively.
Self-Regulatory Neuronal Mechanisms and Long-Term Challenges in Schizophrenia Treatment
Authors: Markiewicz-Gospodarek Agnieszka , Markiewicz Renata , Borowski Bartosz , Dobrowolska Beata , Łoza Bartosz
Published: April 2023

Schizophrenia is a chronic and relapsing disorder that is characterized not only by delusions and hallucinations but also mainly by the progressive development of cognitive and social deficits. These deficits are related to impaired synaptic plasticity and impaired neurotransmission in the nervous system. Currently, technological innovations and medical advances make it possible to use various self-regulatory methods to improve impaired synaptic plasticity. To evaluate the therapeutic effect of various rehabilitation methods, we reviewed methods that modify synaptic plasticity and improve the cognitive and executive processes of patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar bibliographic databases were searched with the keywords mentioned below. A total of 555 records were identified. Modern methods of schizophrenia therapy with neuroplastic potential, including neurofeedback, transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, virtual reality therapy, and cognitive remediation therapy, were reviewed and analyzed. Since randomized controlled studies of long-term schizophrenia treatment do not exceed 2–3 years, and the pharmacological treatment itself has an incompletely estimated benefit-risk ratio, treatment methods based on other paradigms, including neuronal self-regulatory and neural plasticity mechanisms, should be considered. Methods available for monitoring neuroplastic effects in vivo (e.g., fMRI, neuropeptides in serum), as well as unfavorable parameters (e.g., features of the metabolic syndrome), enable individualized monitoring of the effectiveness of long-term treatment of schizophrenia.
Neuroendocrine Tumors: Genomics and Molecular Biomarkers with a Focus on Metastatic Disease
Authors: Alexander Erica S. , Ziv Etay
Published: April 2023

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are considered rare tumors that originate from specialized endocrine cells. Patients often present with metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, which negatively impacts their quality of life and overall survival. An understanding of the genetic mutations that drive these tumors and the biomarkers used to detect new NET cases is important to identify patients at an earlier disease stage. Elevations in CgA, synaptophysin, and 5-HIAA are most commonly used to identify NETs and assess prognosis; however, new advances in whole genome sequencing and multigenomic blood assays have allowed for a greater understanding of the drivers of NETs and more sensitive and specific tests to diagnose tumors and assess disease response. Treating NET liver metastases is important in managing hormonal or carcinoid symptoms and is imperative to improve patient survival. Treatment for liver-dominant disease is varied; delineating biomarkers that may predict response will allow for better patient stratification.
Evidence of a Wheland Intermediate in Carboxylate-Assisted C(sp2)−H Activation by Pd(IV) Active Catalyst Species Studied via DFT Calculations
Authors: Park Ji Eun , Kang Youn K.
Published: April 2023

Evidence of a Wheland intermediate in carboxylate-assisted C−H activation was found using DFT calculations when the Pd(IV) catalyst species was postulated as the active catalyst species (ACS). In order to delineate the reaction mechanism of Pd-catalyzed bisarylation of 3-alkylbenzofuran, five hypothetical catalyst species, [Pd(OAc)(PMe3)(Ph)] (I), [Pd(OAc)2] (II), [Pd(OAc)2(PMe3)] (III), [Pd(OAc)2(Ph)]+ (IV) and [Pd(OAc)2(PMe3)(Ph)]+ (V) were tested as potential ACS candidates. The catalyst species I, previously reported as an ACS in the context of ambiphilic metal−ligand assistance or a concerted metalation-deprotonation mechanism, was unsuccessful, with maximum activation barriers (ΔG‡max) for the C(sp2)−H and C(sp3)−H activations of 33.3 and 51.4 kcal/mol, respectively. The ΔG‡max values for the C(sp2)−H and C(sp3)−H activations of II−V were 23.8/28.7, 32.0/49.6, 10.9/10.9, and 36.0/36.0 kcal/mol, respectively, indicating that ACS is likely IV. This catalyst species forms an intermediate state (IV_1) before proceeding to the transition state (IV_TS1,2) for C(sp2)−H activation, in which C(2) atom of 3-methylbenzofuran has a substantial σ-character. The degree of σ-character of the IV_1 state was further evaluated quantitatively in terms of geometric parameters, partial charge distribution, and activation strain analysis. The analysis results support the existence of a Wheland intermediate, which has long been recognized as the manifestation of the electrophilic aromatic substitution mechanism yet never been identified computationally.
Heterogeneous Chitosan@copper Catalyzed Selective C(sp3)–H Sulfonylation of Ketone Hydrazones with Sodium Sulfinates: Direct Access to β-Ketosulfones
Authors: Qiao Jun , Zheng Kai , Lin Zhiwei , Jin Huiye , Yu Wenbo , Shen Chao , Jia Aiquan , Zhang Qianfeng
Published: April 2023

The exploration of inexpensive and stable heterogeneous catalysts for C–S coupling reactions remains a challenging issue. Herein, we successfully prepared a new biomass-derived copper catalyst and applied it to the selective C(sp3)–H-directed sulfonylation of ketone hydrazones with commercial sodium sulfinates. The catalyst was characterized using different spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Importantly, the prepared biomass-supported Cu catalyst catalyzed the C–S coupling reaction with considerably high activity. A variety of aryl and alkyl sulfinates were converted to the corresponding sulfones with good yields. In particular, the heterogeneous catalyst could be recovered easily after the synthesis and consecutively used at least five times with no appreciable decrease in the catalytic activity. Lastly, the copper catalyst is expected to have further applications in organic reactions catalyzed by Cu/CuO2.
Molecular Mechanisms of Ferroptosis and Updates of Ferroptosis Studies in Cancers and Leukemia
Authors: Akiyama Hiroki , Carter Bing Z. , Andreeff Michael , Ishizawa Jo
Published: April 2023

Ferroptosis is a mode of cell death regulated by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. Growing evidence suggests ferroptosis induction as a novel anti-cancer modality that could potentially overcome therapy resistance in cancers. The molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of ferroptosis are complex and highly dependent on context. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of its execution and protection machinery in each tumor type is necessary for the implementation of this unique cell death mode to target individual cancers. Since most of the current evidence for ferroptosis regulation mechanisms is based on solid cancer studies, the knowledge of ferroptosis with regard to leukemia is largely lacking. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of ferroptosis-regulating mechanisms with respect to the metabolism of phospholipids and iron as well as major anti-oxidative pathways that protect cells from ferroptosis. We also highlight the diverse impact of p53, a master regulator of cell death and cellular metabolic processes, on the regulation of ferroptosis. Lastly, we discuss recent ferroptosis studies in leukemia and provide a future perspective for the development of promising anti-leukemia therapies implementing ferroptosis induction.
Change in Eosinophil Count in Patients with Heart Failure Treated with Anakinra
Authors: Golino Michele , Moroni Francesco , Del Buono Marco Giuseppe , Canada Justin M. , Talasaz Azita H. , Piñel Sebastian , Mbualungu James , Vecchiè Alessandra , Ho Ai-Chen (Jane) , Thomas Georgia K. , Carbone Salvatore , Billingsley Hayley E. , Turlington Jeremy , Markley Roshanak , Trankle Cory , De Ponti Roberto , Van Tassell Benjamin , Abbate Antonio
Published: April 2023

Background: Interleukin-1 blockade with anakinra leads to a transient increase in eosinophil blood count (eosinophils) in patients with acute myocardial infarction. We aimed to investigate the effect of anakinra on changes in eosinophils in patients with heart failure (HF) and their correlation with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Methods: We measured eosinophils in 64 patients with HF (50% females), 55 (51–63) years of age, before and after treatment, and, in a subset of 41 patients, also after treatment cessation. We also evaluated CRF, measuring peak oxygen consumption (VO2) with a treadmill test. Results: Treatment with anakinra significantly and transiently increased eosinophils, from 0.2 [0.1–0.3] to 0.3 [0.1–0.4] × 103 cells/µL (p < 0.001) and from 0.3 [0.2–0.5] to 0.2 [0.1–0.3] × 103 cells/µL, with suspension (p < 0.001). Changes in eosinophils correlated with the changes in peak VO2 (Spearman’s Rho = +0.228, p = 0.020). Eosinophils were higher in patients with injection site reactions (ISR) (n = 8, 13%; 0.5 [0.4–0.6] vs. 0.2 [0.1–0.4] × 103 cells/µL, p = 0.023), who also showed a greater increase in peak VO2 (3.0 [0.9–4.3] vs. 0.3 [−0.6–1.8] mLO2·kg−1·min−1, p = 0.015). Conclusion: Patients with HF treated with anakinra experience a transient increase in eosinophils, which is associated with ISR and a greater improvement in peak VO2.
Phase Instability, Oxygen Desorption and Related Properties in Cu-Based Perovskites Modified by Highly Charged Cations
Authors: Shishkin Roman A. , Suntsov Alexey Yu. , Kalinkin Mikhael O.
Published: April 2023

The rock-salt ordered A2CuWO6 (A = Sr, Ba) with I4/m space group and disordered SrCu0.5M0.5O3−δ (M = Ta, Nb) with Pm3m space group perovskites were successfully obtained via a solid-state reaction route. Heat treatment of Ba2CuWO6 over 900 °C in air leads to phase decomposition to the barium tungstate and copper oxide. Thermogravimetric measurements reveal the strong stoichiometric oxygen content and specific oxygen capacity (ΔWo) exceeding 2.5% for Ba2CuWO6. At the same time, oxygen content reveals Cu3+ content in SrCu0.5Ta0.5O3−δ. Under the following reoxidation of Ba2CuWO6, step-like behavior in weight changes was observed, corresponding to possible Cu+ ion formation at 900 °C; in contrast, no similar effect was detected for M5+ cations. The yellow color of Ba2CuWO6 enables to measure the band gap 2.59 eV. SrCu0.5Ta0.5O3−δ due to high oxygen valance concentration has a low thermal conductivity 1.28 W·m−1·K−1 in the temperature range 25–400 °C.
Combining Two Types of Boron in One Molecule (To the 60th Anniversary of the First Synthesis of Carborane)
Authors: Sivaev Igor B.
Published: April 2023

This review is an attempt to bring together the data from the literature on the synthesis and properties of icosahedral carborane derivatives, in which exo-polyhedral three- and four-coordinated boron substituents are attached directly to the carborane cage through boron–carbon or boron–boron bonds. Various classes of compounds are considered, including carboranyl aryl boranes, boronic acids and their derivatives, boroles, diazaboroles, etc. Particular attention is paid to carborane-fused heterocycles containing boron atoms.
Ag-ZnS Embedded Polymeric Receptors for the Recognition of Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Nasrullah Amara , Zahid Muhammad , Ali Asghar , Ahmad Mirza Nadeem , Mujahid Adnan , Hussain Tajamal , Latif Usman , Din Muhammad Imran , Afzal Adeel
Published: April 2023

The detection of human serum albumin (HSA) is of significant clinical importance in disease diagnoses. In this work, polymer-based synthetic receptors are designed by incorporating Ag-ZnS microspheres in molecularly imprinted poly(methacrylic acid-co-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) (MIPs) for the gravimetric detection of HSA. Among different compositions of Ag-ZnS@MIPs, MIPs having methacrylic acid and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate volume ratio of 3:2 exhibit enhanced HSA sensitivity in the concentration range of 5–200 ng/mL. A remarkably low threshold limit of detection (LOD = 0.364 ng/mL) is achieved with quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) based gravimetric sensors. Furthermore, the Ag-ZnS@MIPs/QCM sensors show high selectivity for HSA compared to other proteins, e.g., bovine serum albumin (BSA), glycoprotein, ribonuclease, and lysozyme. Hence, the gravimetric quantification of HSA realizes a highly sensitive, selective, and label-free detection mechanism with a limit of quantification down to 1.1 ng/mL.
Use of Integrative, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine in Children with Epilepsy: A Global Scoping Review
Authors: Zhu Zahra , Dluzynski Daniela , Hammad Nouran , Pugalenthi Deepika , Walser Sarah A. , Mittal Rea , Samanta Debopam , Brown Melanie L. , Asadi-Pooya Ali A. , Kakooza-Mwesige Angelina , Spalice Alberto , Capponi Martina , Lekoubou Alain , Kumar Ashutosh , Paudel Sita , Carney Paul R. , Mainali Gayatra , Naik Sunil
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders in childhood. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is highly prevalent in patients with epilepsy. Despite CAM’s widespread and increasing popularity, its prevalence, forms, perceived benefits, and potential risks in pediatric epilepsy are rarely explored. (2) Methods: We performed a scoping review of the available literature on the use of CAM in pediatric epilepsy. (3) Results: Overall, global cross-sectional studies showed a variable degree of CAM usage among children with epilepsy, ranging from 13 to 44% in prevalence. Popular types of CAMs reported were supplements, cannabis products, aromatherapy, herbal remedies, dietary therapy, massage therapy, and prayer. Families often report that CAM is effective, although there are limited objective measures of this. Potential risks lie in the use of CAM, such as herbal remedies, and/or unregulated, contaminated, or unpurified products. Studies also underscored inadequate patient–physician discussions regarding CAM. (4) Conclusions: A better understanding of this topic would aid clinicians in guiding patients/families on the use of CAM. Further studies on the efficacy of the different types of CAM used, as well as potential side effects and drug interactions are needed.
An Experimental Study on Biochar/Polypyrrole Coating for Blade Anti-Icing of Wind Turbines
Authors: Li Xiaoheng , Li Xiaojuan , Mu Zhongqiu , Li Yan , Feng Fang
Published: April 2023

Wind turbines operating in cold regions are prone to freezing in winter, which can affect their performance and safety. To resolve this situation, the development of blade anti-icing technology has attracted widespread attention. In this study, a type of biochar/polypyrrole coating was obtained through synthesis on the surface of biochar. After characterization, it was found that the porous structure, irregular dents, and bumps on the surface of biochar/polypyrrole material contributed to the formation of a nanoscale roughness structure with a typical super-hydrophobic nanostructure. Additionally, it had a sufficient surface area. The wetting characteristics of the coating were analyzed with the assistance of a contact angle measurement instrument. The contact angle of the coating was determined as 151°, which indicates the excellent hydrophobic properties of the coating. Icing wind tunnel tests were carried out to evaluate the anti-icing effect of biochar coating and biochar/polypyrrole coating at different ambient temperatures and wind speeds. Compared with uncoated leaves, the icing area of biochar/polypyrrole coating was reduced. Additionally, the anti-icing effect of biochar/polypyrrole coating was most significant. This study provides a practical reference for the research of anti-icing coating on wind turbine blades.
Adsorption and Desorption of Bile Salts at Air–Water and Oil–Water Interfaces
Authors: del Castillo-Santaella Teresa , Maldonado-Valderrama Julia
Published: April 2023

Bile Salts (BS) adsorb onto emulsified oil droplets to promote lipolysis and then desorb, solubilizing lipolytic products, a process which plays a crucial role in lipid digestion. Hence, investigating the mechanism of adsorption and desorption of BS onto the oil–water interface is of major importance to understand and control BS functionality. This can have implications in the rational design of products with tailored digestibility. This study shows the adsorption and desorption curves of BS at air–water and oil–water interfaces obtained by pendant drop tensiometry. Three BS have been chosen with different conjugation and hydroxyl groups: Sodium Taurocholate (NaTC), Glycodeoxycholate (NaGDC) and Sodium Glycochenodeoxycholate (NaGCDC). Experimental results show important differences between the type of BS and the nature of the interface (air/oil–water). At the air–water interface, Glycine conjugates (NaGDC and NaGCDC) are more surface active than Taurine (NaTC), and they also display lower surface tension of saturated films. The position of hydroxyl groups in Glycine conjugates, possibly favors a more vertical orientation of BS at the surface and an improved lateral packing. These differences diminish at the oil–water interface owing to hydrophobic interactions of BS with the oil, preventing intermolecular associations. Desorption studies reveal the presence of irreversibly adsorbed layers at the oil–water interface in all cases, while at the air–water interface, the reversibility of adsorption depends strongly on the type of BS. Finally, dilatational rheology shows that the dilatational response of BS is again influenced by hydrophobic interactions of BS with the oil; thus, adsorbed films of different BS at the oil–water interface are very similar, while larger differences arise between BS adsorbed at the air–water interface. Results presented here highlight new features of the characteristics of adsorption layers of BS on the oil–water interface, which are more relevant to lipid digestion than characteristics of BS adsorbed at air–water interfaces.
Phase Transition of Nb3Sn during the Heat Treatment of Precursors after Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Sun Wanshuo , Chen Shunzhong
Published: April 2023

The phase transition process of Nb3Sn during heat treatment exerts important influences on Nb3Sn formation and the superconducting characteristics of Nb3Sn superconductors. A simple method for quickly preparing Nb3Sn was studied. First, Nb, Sn, and Cu powders were mechanically alloyed to prepare the precursor. Then, the precursor was heat treated at different times to form Nb3Sn. During the first stage, the morphology and crystal structure of the products were analyzed after different milling times. The results of the transmission electron microscopy showed the poor crystallinity of the products compared with the original materials. During the second stage, heat treatment was performed at different temperatures ranging from room temperature to 1073 K. After treatment, the products were studied via X-ray diffraction analysis to determine how the structure changed with increasing temperature. Only the Nb diffraction peaks in the precursor were observed after high-energy ball milling for more than 3 h. When the heat treatment temperature was above 773 K and heat treatment time was 15 min, Nb3Sn began to form. When the temperature was above 973 K, some impurities, such as Nb2O5, appeared. After 5 h of ball milling, the precursor was heat treated at different times in a vacuum heat treatment furnace. The crystal structure of the product exhibited evident diffraction peaks of Nb3Sn. The critical temperatures of the samples that were heat treated at different times were between 17 K and 18 K. The magnetic critical current density of the sample versus the applied magnetic field at 4.2 K indicated that the magnetic Jc was approximately 30,000 A/cm2.
Analytical Solution for a 1D Hexagonal Quasicrystal Strip with Two Collinear Mode-III Cracks Perpendicular to the Strip Boundaries
Authors: Yu Jing , Guo Junhong
Published: April 2023

We considered the problem of determining the singular elastic fields in a one-dimensional (1D) hexagonal quasicrystal strip containing two collinear cracks perpendicular to the strip boundaries under antiplane shear loading. The Fourier series method was used to reduce the boundary value problem to triple series equations, then to singular integral equations with Cauchy kernel. The analytical solutions are in a closed form for the stress field, and the stress intensity factors and the energy release rates of the phonon and phason fields near the crack tip are expressed using the first and third complete elliptic integrals. The effects of the geometrical parameters of the crack configuration on the dimensionless stress intensity factors are presented graphically. The studied crack model can be used to solve the problems of a periodic array of two collinear cracks of equal length in a 1D hexagonal quasicrystal strip and an eccentric crack in a 1D hexagonal quasicrystal strip. The propagation of cracks produced during their manufacturing process may result in the premature failure of quasicrystalline materials. Therefore, it is very important to study the crack problem of quasicrystalline materials with defects as mentioned above. It can provide a theoretical basis for the application of quasicrystalline materials containing the above defects.