bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability Modelling of Pipeline Failure under the Impact of Submarine Slides-Copula Method
Authors: Song Laifu , Ying Hao , Wang Wei , Fan Ning , Du Xueming
Published: April 2022

The instability of seabed slope sediments is the main factor influencing the safety of marine resource development. Therefore, to ensure the safe operation of submarine pipelines under complex and uncertain seabed rock and soil conditions, a reliability model was developed to elucidate the trend of impact-related pipeline damage due to submarine slides. Then, a risk assessment of the damage process of submarine slides impacting pipelines was conducted, which is of great significance for the in-depth safety assessment of pipelines impacted by submarine slides. Based on the copula function, a joint probability distribution model considering the correlation among risk variables was established for rational correlation characterization. A probability analysis method of impact-related pipeline damage attributed to submarine slides based on the copula function was proposed. The Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method was employed to simulate the random uncertainty in limited observation values and accurately determine the reliability of safe pipeline operation under the action of submarine slides. The conclusions were as follows: (1) Based on the copula function, a joint probability distribution model of risk variables with any marginal distribution function and related structure could be developed. (2) The copula function could reasonably characterize relevant nonnormal distribution characteristics of risk variables and could simulate samples conforming to the distribution pattern of the risk variables. (3) The failure probability calculated with the traditional independent normal distribution model was very low, which could result in a notable overestimation of the reliability of submarine pipelines.
A Conditioned Probabilistic Method for the Solution of the Inverse Acoustic Scattering Problem
Authors: Charalambopoulos Antonios , Gergidis Leonidas , Vassilopoulou Eleftheria
Published: April 2022

In the present work, a novel stochastic method has been developed and investigated in order to face the time-reduced inverse scattering problem, governed by the Helmholtz equation, outside connected or disconnected obstacles supporting boundary conditions of Dirichlet type. On the basis of the stochastic analysis, a series of efficient and alternative stochastic representations of the scattering field have been constructed. These novel representations constitute conceptually the probabilistic analogue of the well known deterministic integral representations involving the famous Green’s functions, and so merit special importance. Their advantage lies in their intrinsic probabilistic nature, allowing to solve the direct and inverse scattering problem in the realm of local methods, which are strongly preferable in comparison with the traditional global ones. The aforementioned locality reflects the ability to handle the scattering field only in small bounded portions of the scattering medium by monitoring suitable stochastic processes, confined in narrow sub-regions where data are available. Especially in the realm of the inverse scattering problem, two different schemes are proposed facing reconstruction from the far field and near field data, respectively. The crucial characteristic of the inversion is that the reconstruction is fulfilled through stochastic experiments, taking place in the interior of conical regions whose base belong to the data region, while their vertices detect appropriately the supporting surfaces of the sought scatterers.
A Two-Stage DEA Approach to Measure Operational Efficiency in Vietnam’s Port Industry
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Nguyen Phi-Hung , Nguyen Thi-Ly , Nguyen Thi-Giang , Nguyen Duc-Thinh , Tran Thi-Hoai , Le Hong-Cham , Phung Huong-Thuy
Published: April 2022

Logistics services aid import and export businesses located near ports in terms of ease and efficiency in the globalization era. Furthermore, economic growth and global import–export volumes immediately impact the port industry. This research aims to develop a two-stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model for measuring the performance efficiency of Vietnam’s top 18 seaports. The DEA resampling technique is used to forecast future performance, and the DEA Malmquist model analyzes efficiency improvement. First, the forecast data for the next three years, from 2021 to 2023, were obtained by resampling Lucas weight prediction with the highest accuracy. The results indicate that 12 out of all ports achieved an average progressive production efficiency over the entire study period of 2018–2023. Further, most ports have advanced slightly in technological efficiency, indicating that the determinants of increased productivity are the technical efficiency change indexes. This work contributes to the body of knowledge by being the first to apply the resampling technique in conjunction with the Malmquist model to forecast performance efficiency in the domain of the seaport sector. Furthermore, the managerial implications serve as a beneficial reference for operation managers, policymakers, and researchers when comparing the operational efficacy of seaports to diverse logistical scenarios.
Leveraging Part-of-Speech Tagging Features and a Novel Regularization Strategy for Chinese Medical Named Entity Recognition
Authors: Jiang Miao , Zhang Xin , Chen Chonghao , Shao Taihua , Chen Honghui
Published: April 2022

Chinese Medical Named Entity Recognition (Chinese-MNER) aims to identify potential entities and their categories from the unstructured Chinese medical text. Existing methods for this task mainly incorporate the dictionary knowledge on the basis of traditional BiLSTM-CRF or BERT architecture. However, the construction of high-quality dictionaries is typically time consuming and labor-intensive, which may also damage the robustness of NER models. What is more, the limited amount of annotated Chinese-MNER data can easily lead to the over-fitting problem while training. With the aim of dealing with the above problems, we put forward a BERT-BiLSTM-CRF model by integrating the part-of-speech (POS) tagging features and a Regularization method (BBCPR) for Chinese-MNER. In BBCPR, we first leverage a POS fusion layer to incorporate external syntax knowledge. Next, we design a novel REgularization mothod with Adversarial training and Dropout (READ) to improve the model robustness. Specifically, READ focuses on reducing the difference between the predictions of two sub-models through minimizing the bidirectional KL divergence between the adversarial output and original output distributions for the same sample. Comprehensive evaluations on two public data sets, namely, cMedQANER and cEHRNER from the Chinese Biomedical Language Understanding Evaluation benchmark (ChineseBLUE), demonstrate the superiority of our proposal in Chinese-MNER. In addition, ablation study shows that READ can effectively improve the model performance. Our proposal does well in exploring the technical terms and identifying the word boundary.
Citromycin Isolated from the Antarctic Marine-Derived Fungi, Sporothrix sp., Inhibits Ovarian Cancer Cell Invasion via Suppression of ERK Signaling
Authors: Choi He Yun , Ahn Ji-Hye , Kwon Haeun , Yim Joung Han , Lee Dongho , Choi Jung-Hye
Published: April 2022

Recently, microorganisms and their metabolites in the Antarctic marine environment have attracted attention as useful sources for novel therapeutics, including anticancer drugs. Here, we investigated the effects of citromycin, isolated from the Antarctic marine-derived fungus, Sporothrix sp., on human ovarian cancer cells. Citromycin inhibited the migration and invasion of human ovarian cancer SKOV3 and A2780 cells, but had no cytotoxic activity against them. Additionally, it inhibited the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and the activation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP9. Moreover, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 signaling was inhibited after citromycin treatment, and the ectopic expression of ERK negated the anti-invasive activity of citromycin. Our findings suggest that citromycin inhibits the migration and invasion of human ovarian cancer cells by downregulating the expression levels of EMT markers and MMP-2/9 via inhibition of the ERK1/2 pathway.
Anatomical Changes in a Case with Asymmetrical Bilateral Maxillary Sinus Hypoplasia
Authors: Ilie Adrian Cosmin , Jianu Adelina Maria , Rusu Mugurel Constantin , Mureșan Alexandru Nicolae
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: The maxillary sinus hypoplasia (MSH) is an occasional variation of the maxilla, occurring either unilaterally or bilaterally. Previous studies dealing with MSH have not detailed the consequent anatomical changes of the maxilla and adjacent fossae. Materials and Methods: A 58-year-old female case was scanned in Cone Beam Computed Tomography and found to have asymmetrical bilateral MSH, who was then further evaluated anatomically. Results: The maxillary sinuses were hypoplastic and had mild mucosal thickenings. The orbital floors were curved. The uncinate process and the ethmoidal infundibulum were laterally displaced beneath the orbit floor. On each side, the lateral nasal wall protruded within the respective maxillary bone to reach above the vestibular cortical plate of the alveolar process. This expansion of the lateral nasal walls was limited to the premolar and first molar regions. The inferior turbinates were laterally curved. The perpendicular palatine plate was building a postero-lateral nasal wall in front of the pterygopalatine fossa. Conclusions: The classification systems of MSH should be detailed to indicate whether the normal uncinate process is medial or inferior to the orbit. The lateral expansion of the lateral nasal wall in MSH is limited to the anterior part of that wall. The laterally expanded nasal fossa could reach anterior to the pterygopalatine fossa in MSH. Seemingly, CBCT is a better tool than CT to evaluate the detailed anatomy of the modified anatomical structures in MSH; as such, it could be of help in a surgical approach.
Nosocomial COVID-19 Infection in a Long-Term Hospital in Spain: Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Caro-Martínez Elena , Abad-Collado Susana , Escrivá-Cerrudo Blanca , García-Almarza Shaila , García-Ródenas María del Mar , Gómez-Merino Elena , Serrano-Mateo María-Isabel , Ramos-Rincón Jose-Manuel
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives. The aim of this study is to compare clinical and epidemiological characteristics and outcomes in patients with versus without nosocomial COVID-19 after exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and to analyze the risk factors for severe outcomes of COVID-19 in a long-term hospital in Spain. Materials and methods. This retrospective, single-center observational study included all inpatients in a long-term hospital during a COVID-19 outbreak from 21 January to 15 March 2021. Results. Of 108 admitted patients, 65 (60.2%) were diagnosed with nosocomial COVID-19 disease (n = 34 women (52.3%), median age 77 years). In the univariable analysis, risk factors associated with nosocomial COVID-19 were dementia (OR 4.98 95% CI 1.58–15.75), dyspnea (OR 5.34 95% CI 1.69–16.82), asthenia (OR 5.10, 95% CI 1.40–18.60) and NECesidades PALiativas (NECPAL) (OR 1.28 95% CI 1.10–1.48). In the multivariable analysis, risk factors independently associated with nosocomial COVID-19 infection were dyspnea (aOR 7.39; 95% CI 1.27–43.11) and NECPAL (aOR 1.25; 95% CI 1.03–1.52). Of the 65 patients diagnosed with nosocomial COVID-19, 29 (44.6%) died, compared to 7/43 (16.2%) non-infected patients (OR 4.14, 95% CI 1.61–10.67). Factors associated with mortality in nosocomial COVID-19 were confusion (aOR 3.83; 95% CI 1.03–14.27) and dyspnea (aOR 7.47; 95% CI 1.87–29.82). The NECPAL tool played an important predictive role in both nosocomial COVID-19 infection and mortality (aOR 1.19, 95% CI: 1.00–1.41). Conclusions. In a long-term hospital, nosocomial COVID-19 main clinical characteristics associated with infection were dyspnea and NECPAL. Mortality was higher in the group with nosocomial COVID-19; risk factors were confusion and dyspnea. The NECPAL tool may help to predict progression and death in COVID-19.
Effects of Medium Cut-Off Polyarylethersulfone and Polyvinylpyrrolidone Blend Membrane Dialyzers in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Hung Yu-Hui , Lai Tai-Shuan , Belmouaz Mohamed , Tu Ya-Chun , Lai Chun-Fu , Lin Shuei-Liong , Chen Yung-Ming
Published: April 2022

The use of medium cut-off (MCO) polyarylethersulfone and polyvinylpyrrolidone blend membrane is an emerging mode in hemodialysis. Recent studies have shown that MCO membranes exhibit a middle high molecular weight uremic toxin clearance superior to standard high flux hemodialysis. We conducted a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to investigate whether MCO membranes efficiently increase the reduction ratio of middle molecules, and to explore the potential clinical applications of MCO membranes. We selected articles that compared beta 2-microglobulin (β2M), kappa free light chain (κFLC), lambda free light chain (λFLC), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and albumin levels among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Five randomized studies with 328 patients were included. The meta-analysis demonstrated a significantly higher reduction ratio of serum β2M (p < 0.0001), κFLC (p < 0.0001), and λFLC (p = 0.02) in the MCO group. No significant difference was found in serum IL-6 levels after hemodialysis. Albumin loss was observed in the MCO group (p = 0.04). In conclusion, this meta-analysis study demonstrated the MCO membranes’ superior ability to clear β2M, κFLC, and λFLC. Serum albumin loss is an issue and should be monitored. Further studies are expected to identify whether MCO membranes could significantly improve clinical outcomes and overall survival.
Barrier Membrane in Regenerative Therapy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Alauddin Muhammad Syafiq , Abdul Hayei Nur Ayman , Sabarudin Muhammad Annurdin , Mat Baharin Nor Haliza
Published: April 2022

Guided bone and tissue regeneration remains an integral treatment modality to regenerate bone surrounding teeth and dental implants. Barrier membranes have been developed and produced commercially to allow space for bone regeneration and prevent the migration of unwanted cells. Ideal membrane properties, including biocompatibility, sufficient structural integrity and suitable shelf life with easy clinical application, are important to ensure good clinical regenerative outcomes. Membranes have various types, and their clinical application depends on the origin, material, structure and properties. This narrative review aims to describe the currently available barrier membranes in terms of history, main features, types, indication and clinical application and classify them into various groups. Various membranes, including those which are resorbable and non-resorbable, synthetic, added with growth factors and composed of modern materials, such as high-grade polymer (Polyetheretherketone), are explored in this review.
All-Solid-State Potentiometric Platforms Modified with a Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Fluoxetine Determination
Authors: Abd-Rabboh Hisham S. M. , M. Hashem Heba , M. S. Al Shagri Layla , E. Amr Abdel El-Galil , Almehizia Abdulrahman A. , Naglah Ahmed M. , H. Kamel Ayman
Published: April 2022

Novel cost-effective screen-printed potentiometric platforms for simple, fast, and accurate assessment of Fluoxetine (FLX) were designed and characterized. The potentiometric platforms integrate both the FLX sensor and the reference Ag/AgCl electrode. The sensors were based on the use of 4′-nitrobenzo-15-crown-5 (ionophore I), dibenzo-18-crown-6 (ionophore II), and 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (2-HP-β-CD) (ionophore III) as neutral carriers within a plasticized PVC matrix. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used as a lipophilic ion-to-electron transducing material and sodium tetrakis [3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl] borate (NaTFPB) was used as an anionic excluder. The presented platforms revealed near-Nernstian potentiometric response with slopes of 56.2 ± 0.8, 56.3 ± 1.7 and 64.4 ± 0.2 mV/decade and detection limits of 5.2 × 10−6, 4.7 × 10−6 and 2.0 × 10−7 M in 10 mM Tris buffer solution, pH 7 for sensors based on ionophore I, II, and III, respectively. All measurements were carried out in 10 mM tris buffer solution at pH 7.0. The interfacial capacitance before and after insertion of the MWCNTs layer was evaluated for the presented sensors using the reverse-current chronopotentiometry. The sensors were introduced for successful determination of FLX drug in different pharmaceutical dosage forms. The results were compared with those obtained by the standard HPLC method. Recovery values were calculated after spiking fixed concentrations of FLX in different serum samples. The presented platforms can be potentially manufacturable at large scales and provide a portable, rapid, disposable, and cost-effective analytical tool for measuring FLX.
Type 2 Deiodinase Thr92Ala Polymorphism Is Not Associated with Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Schwengber Wallace Klein , Silveira Vitor Bock , Hetzel Guilherme Moreira , Robaina Amanda , Ceolin Lucieli , Camelier Marli Teresinha , Goemann Iuri , Dalla Corte Roberta Rigo , Scheffel Rafael Selbach , de Mello Renato Gorga Bandeira , Maia Ana Luiza , Dora José Miguel
Published: April 2022

Background: Type 2 Deiodinase (DIO2) converts thyroxine (T4) into the active hormone triiodothyronine (T3). Thr92Ala DIO2 polymorphism has been associated with reduced conversion of T4 into T3 and central nervous system hypothyroidism. However, how Thr92Ala DIO2 polymorphism affects cognitive function is still unclear. Objective: To assess the association between Thr92Ala DIO2 polymorphism and cognitive performance in older adults. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: University-based tertiary hospital in Brazil. Patients: > 65-year-old with no limiting clinical disease. Interventions: All participants answered a standard questionnaire before undergoing thyroid function laboratory evaluation and genotyping of the Thr92Ala DIO2 polymorphism. Main Outcomes: Cognitive impairment measured by the Word List Memory task from the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropsychological Battery (CERAD-NB) and the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery (BCSB). Results: A hundred individuals were included. Clinical and laboratory characteristics were similar among DIO2 genotypes (all p > 0.05). No differences were found in the Word List Memory, recall, or recognition tests of the CERAD-NB assuming a recessive model for the Ala/Ala vs. Thr/Ala-Thr/Thr genotypes. Results of Clock Drawing Test, Animal Fluency Test, Mini-Mental State Exam, and Figure Memory Test of the BCSB were similar between groups. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Thr92Ala DIO2 polymorphism is not associated with relevant cognitive impairment in older adults.
Microbiota and Kidney: Is There a Correlation?
Authors: Merra Giuseppe , Capacci Annunziata , Cenname Giuseppe , Esposito Ernesto , Dri Maria , Di Renzo Laura , Marchetti Marco
Published: April 2022

The relationship between microbiota and chronic kidney disease (CKD) has long been known [...]
Relationship between the Chromosome Structural Dynamics and Gene Expression—A Chicken and Egg Dilemma?
Authors: Le Berre Diana , Reverchon Sylvie , Muskhelishvili Georgi , Nasser William
Published: April 2022

Prokaryotic transcription was extensively studied over the last half-century. A great deal of data has been accumulated regarding the control of gene expression by transcription factors regulating their target genes by binding at specific DNA sites. However, there is a significant gap between the mechanistic description of transcriptional control obtained from in vitro biochemical studies and the complexity of transcriptional regulation in the context of the living cell. Indeed, recent studies provide ample evidence for additional levels of complexity pertaining to the regulation of transcription in vivo, such as, for example, the role of the subcellular localization and spatial organization of different molecular components involved in the transcriptional control and, especially, the role of chromosome configurational dynamics. The question as to how the chromosome is dynamically reorganized under the changing environmental conditions and how this reorganization is related to gene expression is still far from being clear. In this article, we focus on the relationships between the chromosome structural dynamics and modulation of gene expression during bacterial adaptation. We argue that spatial organization of the bacterial chromosome is of central importance in the adaptation of gene expression to changing environmental conditions and vice versa, that gene expression affects chromosome dynamics.
Impact of Climate and Slope Aspects on the Composition of Soil Bacterial Communities Involved in Pedogenetic Processes along the Chilean Coastal Cordillera
Authors: Rodriguez Victoria , Moskwa Lisa-Marie , Oses Rómulo , Kühn Peter , Riveras-Muñoz Nicolás , Seguel Oscar , Scholten Thomas , Wagner Dirk
Published: April 2022

Soil bacteria play a fundamental role in pedogenesis. However, knowledge about both the impact of climate and slope aspects on microbial communities and the consequences of these items in pedogenesis is lacking. Therefore, soil-bacterial communities from four sites and two different aspects along the climate gradient of the Chilean Coastal Cordillera were investigated. Using a combination of microbiological and physicochemical methods, soils that developed in arid, semi-arid, mediterranean, and humid climates were analyzed. Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, Verrucomicrobia, and Planctomycetes were found to increase in abundance from arid to humid climates, while Actinobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes decreased along the transect. Bacterial-community structure varied with climate and aspect and was influenced by pH, bulk density, plant-available phosphorus, clay, and total organic-matter content. Higher bacterial specialization was found in arid and humid climates and on the south-facing slope and was likely promoted by stable microclimatic conditions. The presence of specialists was associated with ecosystem-functional traits, which shifted from pioneers that accumulated organic matter in arid climates to organic decomposers in humid climates. These findings provide new perspectives on how climate and slope aspects influence the composition and functional capabilities of bacteria, with most of these capabilities being involved in pedogenetic processes.
The Effectiveness of Combination Therapy for Treating Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia: A Systematic Literature Review and a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Grillo Sara , Puig-Asensio Mireia , Schweizer Marin L. , Cuervo Guillermo , Oriol Isabel , Pujol Miquel , Carratalà Jordi
Published: April 2022

Background: This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combination therapy for treating MSSA bacteremia. Methods: We searched Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and clinicaltrials.gov for studies including adults with MSSA bacteremia. The monotherapy group used a first-line antibiotic active against MSSA and the combination group used a first-line antibiotic plus additional antibiotic/s. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included persistent bacteremia, duration of bacteremia, relapse, and adverse events. Random-effects models with inverse variance weighting were used to estimate pooled risk ratios (pRR). Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 value and the Cochrane’s Q statistic. Results: A total of 12 studies (6 randomized controlled trials [RCTs]) were included. Combination therapy did not significantly reduce 30-day mortality (pRR 0.92, 95% CI, 0.70–1.20), 90-day mortality (pRR 0.89, 95% CI, 0.74–1.06), or any-time mortality (pRR 0.91, 95% CI, 0.76–1.08). Among patients with deep-seated infections, adjunctive rifampicin may reduce 90-day mortality (3 studies with moderate-high risk of bias; pRR 0.62, 95% CI, 0.42–0.92). For secondary outcomes, combination therapy decreased the risk of relapse (pRR 0.38, 95% CI, 0.22–0.66), but this benefit was not maintained when pooling RCTs (pRR 0.54, 95% CI, 0.12–2.51). Combination therapy was associated with an increased risk of adverse events (pRR 1.74, 95% CI, 1.31–2.31). Conclusions: Combination therapy not only did not decrease mortality in patients with MSSA bacteremia, but also increased the risk of adverse events. Combination therapy may reduce the risk of relapse, but additional high-quality studies are needed.
Construction of Recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae with Ethanol and Aldehydes Tolerance via Overexpression of Aldehyde Reductase
Authors: Divate Nileema R. , Huang Pei-Ju , Chen Gen-Hung , Chung Yun-Chin
Published: April 2022

Furfural and hydroxy-methyl-furfural (HMF) are produced by lignocellulosic biomass during heat or acid pretreatment and are toxic to yeast. Aldehyde reductase is the main enzyme to reduce furfural and HMF. To improve the conversion efficiency of lignocellulosic biomass into ethanol, we constructed Saccharomyces cerevisiae with overexpression of aldehyde reductase (encoded by ari1). The gene of aldehyde reductase (encoded by ari1) was cloned via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ligated with the expression vector pGAPZαC. Western blot coupled with anti-His tag confirmed overexpression of the ari1 gene. The growth curves of the wild and ari1-overexpressed strain in the YPD medium were found to be almost identical. Compare to the ari1-overexpressed strain, the wild strain showed a longer doubling time and lag phase in the presence of 20 mM furfural and 60 mM HMF, respectively. The real-time PCR results showed that furfural was much more potent than HMF in stimulating ari1 expression, but the cell growth patterns showed that 60 mM HMF was more toxic to yeast than 20 mM furfural. S. cerevisiae with ari1 overexpression appeared to confer higher tolerance to aldehyde inhibitors, thereby increasing the growth rate and ethanol production capacity of S. cerevisiae in an aldehyde-containing environment.
SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Alpha and Delta Variant Breakthrough Infections Are Rare and Mild but Can Happen Relatively Early after Vaccination
Authors: Peter Jelissa Katharina , Wegner Fanny , Gsponer Severin , Helfenstein Fabrice , Roloff Tim , Tarnutzer Rahel , Grosheintz Kerstin , Back Moritz , Schaubhut Carla , Wagner Sabina , Seth-Smith Helena M. B. , Scotton Patrick , Redondo Maurice , Beckmann Christiane , Stadler Tanja , Salzmann Andrea , Kurth Henriette , Leuzinger Karoline , Bassetti Stefano , Bingisser Roland , Siegemund Martin , Weisser Maja , Battegay Manuel , Sutter Sarah Tschudin , Lebrand Aitana , Hirsch Hans H. , Fuchs Simon , Egli Adrian
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Some COVID-19 vaccine recipients show breakthrough infection. It remains unknown, which factors contribute to risks and severe outcomes. Our aim was to identify risk factors for SCoV2 breakthrough infections in fully vaccinated individuals. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective case-control study from 28 December 2020 to 25 October 2021. Data of all patients with breakthrough infection was compared to data of all vaccine recipients in the Canton of Basel-City, Switzerland. Further, breakthrough infections by Alpha- and Delta-variants were compared. (3) Results: Only 0.39% (488/126,586) of all vaccine recipients suffered from a breakthrough infection during the observational period, whereof most cases were asymptomatic or mild (97.2%). Breakthrough infections after full vaccination occurred in the median after 78 days (IQR 47-123.5). Factors with lower odds for breakthrough infection were age (OR 0.987) and previous COVID-19 infection prior to vaccination (OR 0.296). Factors with higher odds for breakthrough infection included vaccination with Pfizer/BioNTech instead of Moderna (OR 1.459), chronic disease (OR 2.109), and healthcare workers (OR 1.404). (4) Conclusions: Breakthrough infections are rare and mild but can occur early after vaccination. This implies that booster vaccination might be initiated earlier, especially for risk groups. Due to new variants emerging repeatedly, continuous monitoring of breakthrough infections is crucial.
Influence of Layered Angle on Dynamic Characteristics of Backfill under Impact Loading
Authors: Li Jinxin , Sun Wei , Li Qiqi , Chen Shuo , Yuan Mingli , Xia Hui
Published: April 2022

In order to explore the relationship between the filling surface angle and the dynamic characteristics of the filling body under impact load, this paper uses the Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test system to study the influence of different filling surface angles, different cement–sand ratios and different strain rates on the dynamic peak strength, dynamic strength growth factor and failure mode of the filling body. The results show that with the increase in the average strain rate, the dynamic peak strength and dynamic strength growth factor of the layered filling body increase gradually. With the increase in the filling surface angle, the static and dynamic peak strength of the layered filling body decreases gradually, but there is no obvious change law linking the dynamic strength growth factor and filling surface angle. According to the failure mode analysis and the LS-DYNA numerical simulation results for the layered filling body, with the increase in the filling surface angle, the failure mode of the layered filling body changes from splitting failure under tension to shear failure. The research results in this paper can provide theoretical support for the stability of underground layered filling bodies.
Synthesis, Experimental and Theoretical Study of Azidochromones
Authors: Narváez-Ordoñez Ena G. , Pabón-Carcelén Kevin A. , Zurita-Saltos Daniel A. , Bonilla-Valladares Pablo M. , Yánez-Darquea Trosky G. , Ramos-Guerrero Luis A. , Ulic Sonia E. , Jios Jorge L. , Echeverría Gustavo A. , Piro Oscar E. , Langer Peter , Alcívar-León Christian D. , Heredia-Moya Jorge
Published: April 2022

A series of 2-(haloalkyl)-3-azidomethyl and 6-azido chromones has been synthetized, characterized and studied by theoretical (DFT calculations) and spectroscopic methods (UV-Vis, NMR). The crystal structure of 3-azidomethyl-2-difluoromethyl chromone, determined by X-ray diffraction methods, shows a planar framework due to extended π-bond delocalization. Its molecular packing is stabilized by F···H, N···H and O···H hydrogen bonds, π···π stacking and C–O···π intermolecular interactions. Moreover, AIM, NCI and Hirshfeld analysis evidenced that azido moiety has a significant role in the stabilization of crystal packing through weak intermolecular interactions, where analysis of electronic density suggested closed-shell (CS) interatomic interactions.
Korean Red Ginseng and Ginsenoside Rg3 Suppress Asian Sand Dust-Induced Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Nasal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Shin Seung-Heon , Ye Mi-Kyung , Lee Dong-Won , Chae Mi-Hyun , Hwang You-Jin
Published: April 2022

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the sinonasal mucosa with epithelial dedifferentiation toward the mesenchymal phenotype, known as the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Asian sand dust (ASD) can induce nasal mucosal inflammation and cause the development of EMT. Korean red ginseng (KRG) and ginsenoside Rg3 have been used as traditional herbal medicines to treat various diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate their effect on ASD-induced EMT in nasal epithelial cells. Primary nasal epithelial cells were incubated with ASD with or without KRG or Rg3, and the production of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and interleukin (IL)-8 was measured. EMT markers were determined by RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and confocal microscopy, and transcription factor expression by Western blot analysis. The effect on cell migration was evaluated using the wound scratch assay. Results showed ASD-induced TGF-β1 production, downregulation of E-cadherin, and upregulation of fibronectin in nasal epithelial cells. KRG and Rg3 suppressed TGF-β1 production (31.7% to 43.1%), upregulated the expression of E-cadherin (26.4% to 88.3% in mRNA), and downregulated that of fibronectin (14.2% to 46.2% in mRNA and 52.3% to 70.2% in protein). In addition, they suppressed the ASD-induced phosphorylation of ERK, p38, and mTOR, as well as inhibiting the ASD-induced migration of nasal epithelial cells (25.2% to 41.5%). The results of this study demonstrate that KRG and Rg3 inhibit ASD-induced EMT by suppressing the activation of ERK, p38, and mTOR signaling pathways in nasal epithelial cells.
Fraxinellone Induces Hepatotoxicity in Zebrafish through Oxidative Stress and the Transporters Pathway
Authors: Wang Shuting , Bao Jie , Li Jie , Li Wanfang , Tian Mengyin , Qiu Caixia , Pang Fei , Li Xin , Yang Jianbo , Hu Yuchi , Wang Sujuan , Jin Hongtao
Published: April 2022

Fraxinellone (FRA), a major active component from Cortex Dictamni, produces hepatotoxicity via the metabolization of furan rings by CYP450. However, the mechanism underlying the hepatotoxicity of FRA remains unclear. Therefore, zebrafish larvae at 72 h post fertilization were used to evaluate the metabolic hepatotoxicity of FRA and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. The results showed that FRA (10–30 μM) induced liver injury and obvious alterations in the metabolomics of zebrafish larvae. FRA induces apoptosis by increasing the level of ROS and activating the JNK/P53 pathway. In addition, FRA can induce cholestasis by down-regulating bile acid transporters P-gp, Bsep, and Ntcp. The addition of the CYP3A inhibitor ketoconazole (1 μM) significantly reduced the hepatotoxicity of FRA (30 μM), which indicated that FRA induced hepatotoxicity through CYP3A metabolism. Targeted metabolomics analysis indicates the changes in amino acid levels can be combined with molecular biology to clarify the mechanism of hepatotoxicity induced by FRA, and amino acid metabolism monitoring may provide a new method for the prevention and treatment of DILI from FRA.
Photoelectrochemical Response Enhancement for Metallofullerene-[12]Cycloparaphenylene Supramolecular Complexes
Authors: Zhang Jie , Qiu Ling , Liu Linshan , Liu Yang , Cui Peng , Wang Fang , Zhang Zhuxia
Published: April 2022

The photoelectrochemical properties of three metallofullerene-[12]cycloparaphenylene ([12]CPP) supramolecular complexes of Sc3N@C78⊂[12]CPP, Sc3N@C80⊂[12]CPP, and Sc2C2@C82⊂[12]CPP were studied. It was revealed that the photocurrent responses of these supramolecular complexes show enhancement compared with those of pristine metallofullerenes, indicating the efficient photocurrent generation and promoted charge carrier transport caused by the supramolecular interaction. The results show that Sc2C2@C82 and Sc2C2@C82⊂[12]CPP have the strongest photocurrents. Then, by comparing the photocurrent intensities of the metallofullerene-biphenyl derivates mixture and the metallofullerene⊂[12]CPP complexes, it was demonstrated that the host–guest interaction is the key factor promoting photocurrent enhancement. At the same time, by observing the microscopic morphologies of pristine fullerenes and supramolecular complexes, it was found that the construction of supramolecules helps to improve the morphology of metallofullerenes on FTO glass. Additionally, their electrical conductivity in optoelectronic devices was tested, respectively, indicating that the construction of supramolecules facilitates the transport of charge carriers. This work discloses the potential application of metallofullerene supramolecular complexes as photodetector and photoelectronic materials.
Optothermal Raman Spectroscopy of Black Phosphorus on a Gold Substrate
Authors: Bonera Emiliano , Molle Alessandro
Published: April 2022

With black phosphorus being a promising two-dimensional layered semiconductor for application to electronics and optoelectronics, an issue remains as to how heat diffusion is managed when black phosphorus is interfaced with metals, namely in a typical device heterojunction. We use Raman spectroscopy to investigate how the laser-induced heat affects the phonon modes at the interface by comparing the experimental data with a finite element simulation based on a localized heat diffusion. The best convergence is found taking into account an effective interface thermal conductance, thus indicating that heat dissipation at the Au-supported black phosphorus nanosheets is limited by interface effect.
Dynamics of Quasi-One-Dimensional Structures under Roughening Transition Stimulated by External Irradiation
Authors: Gorshkov Vyacheslav , Tereshchuk Volodymyr , Bereznykov Oleksii , Boiger Gernot , Fallah Arash
Published: April 2022

We studied the striking effect of external irradiation of nanowires on the dynamics of their surface morphology at elevated temperatures that do not destroy their crystal lattice. Numerical experiments performed on the basis of the Monte Carlo model revealed new possibilities for controlled periodic modulation of the cross-section of quasi-one-dimensional nanostructures for opto- and nanoelectronic elements. These are related to the fact that external irradiation stimulates the surface diffusion of atoms. On the one hand, such stimulation should accelerate the development of the well-known spontaneous thermal instability of nanowires (Rayleigh instability), which leads to their disintegration into nanoclusters. On the other hand, this leads to the forced development of the well-known roughening transition (RT) effect. Under normal circumstances, this manifests itself on selected crystal faces at a temperature above the critical one. The artificial stimulation of this effect on the lateral surface of quasi-one-dimensional structures determines many unpredictable scenarios of their surface dynamics, which essentially depend on the orientation of the nanowire axis relative to its internal crystal structure. In particular, the long-wave Rayleigh breakup observed in absence of external irradiation transforms into strongly pronounced short-wave metastable modulations of the cross-section (a chain of unduloids). The effect of the self-consistent relationship between the Rayleigh instability and RT is dimensional and can be observed only at relatively small nanowire radii. The fact is analyzed that, for the manifestation of this effect, it is very important to prevent significant heating of the nanowire when surface diffusion is stimulated. A number of developed theoretical concepts have already found confirmation in real experiments with Au and Ag nanowires irradiated by electrons and Ag+ ions, respectively.
Iron Single Atoms Anchored on Carbon Matrix/g-C3N4 Hybrid Supports by Single-Atom Migration-Trapping Based on MOF Pyrolysis
Authors: Jia Yining , Huang Rong , Qi Ruijuan
Published: April 2022

Numerous efforts have been devoted to realizing the high loading and full utilization of single-atom catalysts (SACs). As one of the representative methods, atom migration-trapping (AMT) is a top-down strategy that converts a certain volume of metal nanoparticles (NPs) or metal-based precursors into mobile metal species at high temperature, which can then be trapped by suitable supports. In this study, high-loading iron single atoms anchored onto carbon matrix/g-C3N4 hybrid supports were obtained through a single-atom migration-trapping method based on metal–organic framework (MOF) pyrolysis. It is confirmed, by high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS), that the Fe(acac)3 precursor is reduced to Fe single atoms (SAs), which are not only anchored onto the original N-doped carbon (NC), but also onto g-C3N4, with an Fe-N coordination bond. Further electrochemical results reveal that Fe-C3N4-0.075 possesses a better half-wave potential of 0.846 V and onset potential of 0.96 V compared to Fe-N-C, the product obtained after pyrolysis of Fe(acac)3@ZIF-8. As opposed to SAs prepared by the pyrolysis process only, SAs prepared by AMT are commonly anchored onto the surface of the supports, which is a simple and effective way to make full use of the source metal and prepare SACs with higher exposing active sites.
The Concept of Intrauterine Programming and the Development of the Neonatal Microbiome in the Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Grot Martina , Krupa-Kotara Karolina , Wypych-Ślusarska Agata , Grajek Mateusz , Białek-Dratwa Agnieszka
Published: April 2022

The process of intrauterine programming is related to the quality of the microbiome formed in the fetus and the newborn. The implementation of probiotics, prebiotics, and psychobiotics shows immunomodulatory potential towards the organism, especially the microbiome of the pregnant woman and her child. Nutrigenomics, based on the observation of pregnant women and the developing fetus, makes it possible to estimate the biological effects of active dietary components on gene expression or silencing. Nutritional intervention for pregnant women should consider the nutritional status of the patient, biological markers, and the potential impact of dietary intervention on fetal physiology. The use of a holistic model of nutrition allows for appropriately targeted and effective dietary prophylaxis that can impact the physical and mental health of both the mother and the newborn. This model targets the regulation of the immune response of the pregnant woman and the newborn, considering the clinical state of the microbiota and the pathomechanism of the nervous system. Current scientific reports indicate the protective properties of immunobiotics (probiotics) about the reduction of the frequency of infections and the severity of the course of COVID-19 disease. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that intrauterine programming influences the development of the microbiome for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on a review of research studies.
Factors Associated with (Exclusive) Breastfeeding Duration—Results of the SUKIE-Study
Authors: Bürger Bernadette , Schindler Karin , Tripolt Tanja , Griesbacher Antonia , Stüger Hans Peter , Wagner Karl-Heinz , Weber Adelheid , Wolf-Spitzer Alexandra
Published: April 2022

The WHO European Region has the lowest exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates at 6 months in the world. In Austria, 55.5% of infants are EBF at the age of one week, although breastfeeding initiation is 97.5%. The study was conducted in 2019/2020 and considered 1214 mothers of legal age, who received four online questionnaires during their child’s first year of life. The influence of different variables on total/exclusive breastfeeding duration were analysed by using a Cox model (Extension of the Cox Proportional Hazards Model) with time-dependent covariates. Multivariate analyses showed a significant influence of maternal BMI, lifestyle factors, such as smoking, and breastfeeding support on total breastfeeding duration. Remarkable differences in the median duration of any breastfeeding were found for breastfeeding support, where mothers breastfed twice as long. Support came primarily from hospital staff, the midwife and the partner. A higher monthly household net income, delivery in a baby-friendly certified hospital (BFH) and breastfeeding support were associated with a longer EBF duration. Obese mothers started feeding infant formula earlier and had a higher risk of early weaning. The results offer valuable insights into the importance of breastfeeding-friendly structures such as BFHs, a focus on breastfeeding aftercare and support of the mother to promote and protect breastfeeding.
TAS1R3 and TAS2R38 Polymorphisms Affect Sweet Taste Perception: An Observational Study on Healthy and Obese Subjects
Authors: Cecati Monia , Vignini Arianna , Borroni Francesca , Pugnaloni Sofia , Alia Sonila , Sabbatinelli Jacopo , Nicolai Giulia , Taus Marina , Santarelli Andrea , Fabri Mara , Mazzanti Laura , Emanuelli Monica
Published: April 2022

Background: The inter-individual differences in taste perception find a possible rationale in genetic variations. We verified whether the presence of four different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding for bitter (TAS2R38; 145G > C; 785T > C) and sweet (TAS1R3; −1572C > T; −1266C > T) taste receptors influenced the recognition of the basic tastes. Furthermore, we tested if the allelic distribution of such SNPs varied according to BMI and whether the associations between SNPs and taste recognition were influenced by the presence of overweight/obesity. Methods: DNA of 85 overweight/obese patients and 57 normal weight volunteers was used to investigate the SNPs. For the taste test, filter paper strips were applied. Each of the basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty, bitter) plus pure rapeseed oil, and water were tested. Results: Individuals carrying the AV/AV diplotype of the TAS2R38 gene (A49P G/G and V262 T/T) were less sensitive to sweet taste recognition. These alterations remained significant after adjustment for gender and BMI. Moreover, a significant decrease in overall taste recognition associated with BMI and age was found. There was no significant difference in allelic distribution for the investigated polymorphisms between normal and overweight/obese patients. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that overall taste recognition depends on age and BMI. In the total population, the inter-individual ability to identify the sweet taste at different concentrations was related to the presence of at least one genetic variant for the bitter receptor gene but not to the BMI.
Clinical Evidence of the Benefits of Phytonutrients in Human Healthcare
Authors: Monjotin Nicolas , Amiot Marie Josèphe , Fleurentin Jacques , Morel Jean Michel , Raynal Sylvie
Published: April 2022

Phytonutrients comprise many different chemicals, including carotenoids, indoles, glucosinolates, organosulfur compounds, phytosterols, polyphenols, and saponins. This review focuses on the human healthcare benefits of seven phytochemical families and highlights the significant potential contribution of phytonutrients in the prevention and management of pathologies and symptoms in the field of family health. The structure and function of these phytochemical families and their dietary sources are presented, along with an overview of their potential activities across different health and therapeutic targets. This evaluation has enabled complementary effects of the different families of phytonutrients in the same area of health to be recognized.
The Role of Magnesium in the Pathogenesis of Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Pelczyńska Marta , Moszak Małgorzata , Bogdański Paweł
Published: April 2022

Magnesium (Mg) is an essential nutrient for maintaining vital physiological functions. It is involved in many fundamental processes, and Mg deficiency is often correlated with negative health outcomes. On the one hand, most western civilizations consume less than the recommended daily allowance of Mg. On the other hand, a growing body of evidence has indicated that chronic hypomagnesemia may be implicated in the pathogenesis of various metabolic disorders such as overweight and obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension (HTN), changes in lipid metabolism, and low-grade inflammation. High Mg intake with diet and/or supplementation seems to prevent chronic metabolic complications. The protective action of Mg may include limiting the adipose tissue accumulation, improving glucose and insulin metabolism, enhancing endothelium-dependent vasodilation, normalizing lipid profile, and attenuating inflammatory processes. Thus, it currently seems that Mg plays an important role in developing metabolic disorders associated with obesity, although more randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating Mg supplementation strategies are needed. This work represents a review and synthesis of recent data on the role of Mg in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders.