bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The β1 Adrenergic Blocker Nebivolol Ameliorates Development of Endotoxic Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Nurlu Temel Esra , Savran Mehtap , Erzurumlu Yalcın , Hasseyid Nursel , Buyukbayram Halil Ibrahim , Okuyucu Gozde , Sevuk Mehmet Abdulkadir , Ozmen Ozlem , Beyan Ayse Coskun
Published: February 2023

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a disease, with no effective treatment, which might result in death. Formations of excessive inflammation and oxidative stress are responsible for the pathophysiology of ALI. Nebivolol (NBL), a third-generation selective β1 adrenoceptor antagonist, has protective pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant functions. Consequently, we sought to assess the efficacy of NBL on a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI model via intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression and the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1)/matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) signaling. Thirty-two rats were split into four categories: control, LPS (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [IP], single dose), LPS (5 mg/kg, IP, one dosage 30 min after last NBL treatment), + NBL (10 mg/kg oral gavage for three days), and NBL (10 mg/kg oral gavage for three days). Six hours after the administration of LPS, the lung tissues of the rats were removed for histopathological, biochemical, gene expression, and immunohistochemical analyses. Oxidative stress markers such as total oxidant status and oxidative stress index levels, leukocyte transendothelial migration markers such as MMP-2, TIMP-1, and ICAM-1 expressions in the case of inflammation, and caspase-3 as an apoptotic marker, significantly increased in the LPS group. NBL therapy reversed all these changes. The results of this study suggest that NBL has utility as a potential therapeutic agent to dampen inflammation in other lung and tissue injury models
Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment in Musculocontractural Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome Caused by Biallelic Loss-of-Function Variants of Gene for Dermatan Sulfate Epimerase
Authors: Yoshikawa Yuji , Koto Takashi , Ishida Tomoka , Uehara Tomoko , Yamada Mamiko , Kosaki Kenjiro , Inoue Makoto
Published: February 2023

Musculocontractural Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, caused by biallelic loss-of-function variants for dermatan sulfate epimerase (mcEDS-DSE), is a rare connective tissue disorder. Eight patients with mcEDS-DSE have been described with ocular complications, including blue sclera, strabismus, high refractive errors, and elevated intraocular pressure. However, a case with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) has not been reported. We report our findings in a 24-year-old woman who was diagnosed with mcEDS-DSE in childhood and presented to our clinic with an RRD in the left eye. The RRD extended to the macula and was associated with an atrophic hole. The patient underwent scleral buckling surgery and cryopexy with drainage of subretinal fluid through a sclerotomy under local anesthesia. The sclera did not appear blue but was very thin at the sclerotomy site. The patient developed frequent bradycardia during the surgery. Subretinal or choroidal hemorrhages were not observed intraoperatively; however, a peripapillary hemorrhage was observed one day after operation. The retina was reattached postoperatively, and the peripapillary hemorrhage was absorbed after one month. The peripapillary retinal hemorrhages, thin sclera, and bradycardia were most likely due to the fragility of the eye. The genetic diagnosis of mcEDS-DSE played an important role before and during the surgery by alerting the surgeons to possible surgical complications due to the thin sclera.
Assessment of Pertussis Underreporting in Italy
Authors: Bagordo Francesco , Grassi Tiziana , Savio Marta , Rota Maria Cristina , Baldovin Tatjana , Vicentini Costanza , Napolitano Francesco , Trombetta Claudia Maria , Gabutti Giovanni ,   Seroepidemiological Study Group
Published: February 2023

A study was conducted to assess the degree of pertussis underreporting in Italy. An analysis was performed to compare the frequency of pertussis infections estimated using seroprevalence data with the pertussis incidence based on reported cases among the Italian population. For this purpose, the proportion of subjects who had an anti-PT ≥ 100 IU/mL (indicative of B. pertussis infection within the last 12 months) was compared with the reported incidence rate among the Italian population ≥5 years old, divided into two age groups (6–14 and ≥15 years old), obtained from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) database. The pertussis incidence rate in the Italian population ≥5 years old reported by the ECDC in 2018 was 6.75/100,000 in the 5–14 age group and 0.28/100,000 in the ≥15 age group. The proportion of subjects recruited in the present study with an anti-PT ≥ 100 IU/mL was 0.95% in the 6–14 age group and 0.97% in the ≥15 age group. The estimated rate of pertussis infections based on seroprevalence was approximately 141-fold and 3452-fold higher than the reported incidence in the 6–14 age group and in the ≥15 age group, respectively. Quantification of underreporting can allow for the burden of pertussis, as well as the impact of ongoing vaccination, to be better evaluated.
Measurement of Postoperative Quality of Pain in Abdominoplasty Patients—An Outcome Oriented Prospective Study
Authors: Wellenbrock Sascha , Aitzetmüller Matthias Michael , Klietz Marie-Luise , Wiebringhaus Philipp , Djedovic Gabriel , Hirsch Tobias , Rieger Ulrich M.
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Postoperative pain is a frequently underestimated complication significantly influencing surgical outcome and patient satisfaction. While abdominoplasty is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures, studies investigating postoperative pain are limited in current literature. (2) Methods: In this prospective study, 55 subjects who underwent horizontal abdominoplasty were included. Pain assessment was performed by using the standardized questionnaire of the Benchmark Quality Assurance in Postoperative Pain Management (QUIPS). Surgical, process and outcome parameters were then used for subgroup analysis. (3) Results: We found a significantly decreased minimal pain level in patients with high resection weight compared to the low resection weight group (p = 0.01 *). Additionally, Spearman correlation shows significant negative correlation between resection weight and the parameter “Minimal pain since surgery” (rs = −0.332; p = 0.013). Furthermore, average mood is impaired in the low weight resection group, indicating a statistical tendency (p = 0.06 and a Χ2 = 3.56). We found statistically significant higher maximum reported pain scores (rs = 0.271; p = 0.045) in elderly patients. Patients with shorter surgery showed a statistically significant (Χ2 = 4.61, p = 0.03) increased claim for painkillers. Moreover, “mood impairment after surgery” shows a dramatic trend to be enhanced in the group with shorter OP duration (Χ2 = 3.56, p = 0.06). (4) Conclusions: While QUIPS has proven to be a useful tool for the evaluation of postoperative pain therapy after abdominoplasty, only continuous re-evaluation of pain therapy is a prerequisite for constant improvement of postoperative pain management and may be the first approach to develop a procedure-specific pain guideline for abdominoplasty. Despite a high satisfaction score, we detected a subpopulation with inadequate pain management in elderly patients, patients with low resection weight and a short duration of surgery.
Personalised Medicine—Implementation to the Healthcare System in Europe (Focus Group Discussions)
Authors: Stefanicka-Wojtas Dorota , Kurpas Donata
Published: February 2023

Background: Personalized medicine (PM) is an approach based on understanding the differences between patients with the same disease and represents a change from the “one size fits all” concept. According to this concept, appropriate therapies should be selected for specific groups of patients. PM makes it possible to predict whether a particular therapy will be effective for a particular patient. PM will still have to overcome many challenges and barriers before it can be successfully implemented in healthcare systems. However, it is essential to remember that PM is not a medical revolution but an evolution. Methods: Three focus groups were conducted, to achieve the purpose of this study, which was to identify the barriers and facilitators existing to the implementation of PM and to highlight existing practices in European countries. Focus group discussions covered the areas of barriers and facilitators to the implementation of personalized medicine. Results: This section describes the results of the focus groups that covered the areas of barriers and facilitators of personalized medicine implementation. Conclusions: Personalized medicine faces many challenges and barriers before it can be successfully implemented in health systems. The translation of PM to European countries, differences in regulations, high costs of new technologies, and reimbursement are the reasons for the delay in PM implementation.
Pharmacogenetics in the Treatment of Huntington’s Disease: Review and Future Perspectives
Authors: García-González Xandra , Cubo Esther , Simón-Vicente Lucía , Mariscal Natividad , Alcaraz Raquel , Aguado Laura , Rivadeneyra-Posadas Jéssica , Sanz-Solas Antonio , Saiz-Rodríguez Miriam
Published: February 2023

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant progressive brain disorder, caused by a pathological expansion of a CAG repeat that encodes the huntingtin gene. This genetic neurodegenerative rare disease is characterized by cognitive, motor, and neuropsychiatric manifestations. The aim of the treatment is symptomatic and addresses the hyperkinetic disorders (chorea, dystonia, myoclonus, tics, etc.) and the behavioural and cognitive disturbances (depression, anxiety, psychosis, etc.) associated with the disease. HD is still a complex condition in need of innovative and efficient treatment. The long-term goal of pharmacogenetic studies is to use genotype data to predict the effective treatment response to a specific drug and, in turn, prevent potential undesirable effects of its administration. Chorea, depression, and psychotic symptoms have a substantial impact on HD patients’ quality of life and could be better controlled with the help of pharmacogenetic knowledge. We aimed to carry out a review of the available publications and evidence related to the pharmacogenetics of HD, with the objective of compiling all information that may be useful in optimizing drug administration. The impact of pharmacogenetic information on the response to antidepressants and antipsychotics is well documented in psychiatric patients, but this approach has not been investigated in HD patients. Future research should address several issues to ensure that pharmacogenetic clinical use is appropriately supported, feasible, and applicable.
Prognostic Significance of Systemic Inflammation Markers in Testicular and Penile Cancer: A Narrative Review of Current Literature
Authors: Janicic Aleksandar , Petrovic Milos , Zekovic Milica , Vasilic Nenad , Coric Vesna , Milojevic Bogomir , Zivkovic Marko , Bumbasirevic Uros
Published: February 2023

In contemporary clinical practice, biomarkers are indispensable in the assessment and management of oncological patients. Although established serum tumor markers (beta human chorionic gonadotropin (bHCG), alpha fetoprotein (AFP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)) have an indisputably important role in the management of patients with testicular cancer (TC), the application of these tumor markers may be accompanied with certain limitations, implying the need for additional biomarkers. Contrary to TC, there is a lack of established serological biomarkers for penile cancer (PC) and the management of this urological malignancy is based on multiple clinicopathological parameters. Therefore, the identification and rigorous analytical and clinical validation of reliable biomarkers are considered pivotal for improving PC management. Inflammation may be associated with all stages of oncogenesis, from initial neoplastic transformation to angiogenesis, tissue invasion, and metastasis. Accordingly, an array of inflammation-related indices have gained increasing attention as emerging predictors of oncological outcomes. The clinical usefulness of systemic inflammation markers was reported in many urological and non-urological malignancies. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize current scientific data regarding the prognostic and predictive significance of systemic inflammation markers in TC and PC patients.
Order and Complexity in the RNA World
Authors: Mayer Christian
Published: February 2023

The basic idea of the RNA world as an early step towards life relies on a molecular evolution process based on self-replicating RNA strands. It is probably the oldest and most convincing model for efficient prebiotic evolution. Obviously, the functionality of RNA sequences depends on order (i.e., the definition of their sequence) as well as on complexity (i.e., the length of their sequence). Order and complexity seem to be crucial parameters in the course of RNA evolution. In the following, an attempt is made to define these parameters and to identify characteristic mechanisms of their development. Using a general RNA world scenario including the free monomer units, the sequential order is defined based on statistical thermodynamics. The complexity, on the other hand, is determined by the size of a minimal algorithm fully describing the system. Under these conditions, a diagonal line in an order/complexity-diagram represents the progress of molecular evolution. Elementary steps such as repeated random polymerization and selection follow characteristic pathways and finally add up to a state of high system functionality. Furthermore, the model yields a thermodynamic perspective on molecular evolution, as the development of a defined polymer sequence has a distinct influence on the entropy of the overall system.
Regulation of Pre-mRNA Splicing: Indispensable Role of Post-Translational Modifications of Splicing Factors
Authors: Kretova Miroslava , Selicky Tomas , Cipakova Ingrid , Cipak Lubos
Published: February 2023

Pre-mRNA splicing is a process used by eukaryotic cells to generate messenger RNAs that can be translated into proteins. During splicing, the non-coding regions of the RNAs (introns) are removed from pre-mRNAs and the coding regions (exons) are joined together, resulting in mature mRNAs. The particular steps of splicing are executed by the multimegadalton complex called a spliceosome. This complex is composed of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins, various splicing factors, and other regulatory and auxiliary proteins. In recent years, various post-translational modifications of splicing factors have been shown to contribute significantly to regulation of processes involved in pre-mRNA splicing. In this review, we provide an overview of the most important post-translational modifications of splicing factors that are indispensable for their normal function during pre-mRNA splicing (i.e., phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination and sumoylation). Moreover, we also discuss how the defects in regulation of splicing factors are related to the development of cancer.
(E)-1-(5-Methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethan-1-one Oxime
Authors: Abdel-Wahab Bakr F. , Farahat Abdelbasset A. , Kariuki Benson M. , El-Hiti Gamal A.
Published: February 2023

The reaction of 1-(5-methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethan-1-one (1) with excess hydroxylamine hydrochloride (2 mole equivalents) in dry ethanol afforded (E)-1-(5-methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethan-1-one oxime (2) in 86% yield. The structure of the new heterocycle 2 was confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, single crystal X-ray and elemental analysis.
Plasmonic Phenomena in Membrane Distillation
Authors: Alessandro Francesca , Macedonio Francesca , Drioli Enrico
Published: February 2023

Water scarcity raises important concerns with respect to human sustainability and the preservation of important ecosystem functions. To satisfy water requirements, seawater desalination represents one of the most sustainable solutions. In recent decades, membrane distillation has emerged as a promising thermal desalination process that may help to overcome the drawbacks of traditional desalination processes. Nevertheless, in membrane distillation, the temperature at the feed membrane interface is significantly lower than that of the bulk feed water, due to the latent heat flux associated with water evaporation. This phenomenon, known as temperature polarization, in membrane distillation is a crucial issue that could be responsible for a decay of about 50% in the initial transmembrane water flux. The use of plasmonic nanostructures, acting as thermal hotspots in the conventional membranes, may improve the performance of membrane distillation units by reducing or eliminating the temperature polarization problem. Furthermore, an efficient conversion of light into heat offers new opportunities for the use of solar energy in membrane distillation. This work summarizes recent developments in the field of plasmonic-enhanced solar evaporation with a particular focus on solar-driven membrane distillation applications and its potential prospects.
Constructing a Hierarchical Hydrophilic Crosslink Network on the Surface of a Polyvinylidene Fluoride Membrane for Efficient Oil/Water Emulsion Separation
Authors: Zhang Ruixian , Mo Yuanbin , Gao Yanfei , Zhou Zeguang , Hou Xueyi , Ren Xiuxiu , Wang Junzhong , Chu Xiaokun , Lu Yanyue
Published: February 2023

Oil/water mixtures from industrial and domestic wastewater adversely affect the environment and human beings. In this context, the development of a facile and improved separation method is crucial. Herein, dopamine was used as a bioadhesive to bind tea polyphenol (TP) onto the surface of a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane to form the first hydrophilic polymer network. Sodium periodate (NaIO4) is considered an oxidising agent for triggering self-polymerisation and can be used to introduce hydrophilic groups via surface manipulation to form the second hydrophilic network. In contrast to the individual polydopamine (PDA) and TP/NaIO4 composite coatings for a hydrophobic PVDF microfiltration membrane, a combination of PDA, TP, and NaIO4 has achieved the most facile treatment process for transforming the hydrophobic membrane into the hydrophilic state. The hierarchical superhydrophilic network structure with a simultaneous underwater superoleophobic membrane exhibited excellent performance in separating various oil-in-water emulsions, with a high water flux (1530 L.m−2 h−1.bar) and improved rejection (98%). The water contact angle of the modified membrane was 0° in 1 s. Moreover, the steady polyphenol coating was applied onto the surface, which endowed the membrane with an adequate antifouling and recovery capability and a robust durability against immersion in an acid, alkali, or salt solution. This facile scale-up method depends on in situ plant-inspired chemistry and has remarkable potential for practical applications.
Mechanical and Corrosion Properties of Mg–Gd–Cu–Zr Alloy for Degradable Fracturing Ball Applications
Authors: Jiang Jiahao , Geng Xue , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: February 2023

Generally, excellent mechanical properties of Mg alloys are desired, but their rapid degradation properties are seldom utilized. Petroleum fracturing techniques are required to take full advantage of this rapid degradation. Therefore, we have prepared an as-extruded Mg–6.0Gd–1.2Cu–1.2Zr (wt.%) alloy and treated it with peak aging to analyze its potential as a degradable fracture ball. The results show that the as-extruded alloy mainly consists of an α-Mg matrix, second phase, and large elongated α-Mg grains (LEGs). After aging, the LEGs undergo static recrystallization, which improves the mechanical properties of the alloy, and a lamellar long period stacking ordered (LPSO) phase is observed. Under simulated underground temperature conditions (93 °C), the ultimate tensile strength and elongation of both as-extruded and as-aged alloys are over Ȧ MPa and 11.1%, respectively, and the ultimate compressive strength and elongation of both alloys are over 336 MPa and 16.9%, respectively. The corrosion rate of the as-extruded alloy in 3 wt.% KCl solution at 93 °C reaches 1660.8 mm/y by mass loss test, and that of the as-aged alloy increases to 1955.1 mm/y. The atomic force microscope analysis result confirms that the second phase shows the highest corrosion potential, followed by the lamellar LPSO phase and α-Mg matrix. The as-extruded and as-aged Mg–6.0Gd–1.2Cu–1.2Zr alloy with good mechanical properties and a high corrosion rate in this work shows promising potential for degradable fracturing ball applications.
Conceptual Analysis on Severe Plastic Deformation Processes of Shape Memory Alloys: Mechanical Properties and Microstructure Characterization
Authors: Ebrahimi Mahmoud , Attarilar Shokouh , Gode Ceren , Kandavalli Sumanth Ratna , Shamsborhan Mahmoud , Wang Qudong
Published: February 2023

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are types of materials that can restore their original shape upon severe or quasi-plastic deformation, being exposed to specific external stimuli, including heating, electric current, magnetic field, etc. They are a category of functional materials that provides superelasticity as a significant material property. The roots of this unintentional discovery were in the 20th century, and later it attracted the attention of various industries, including aerospace, medical, mechanical, manufacturing industries, etc. Later developments mainly focused on improving the properties of these materials. One of the ways in which this is achieved is the application of intensive plastic strains on SMAs through severe plastic deformation (SPD) methods, leading to extreme grain refinement. Superelasticity is a key characteristic of SMAs and is known as the capacity of a polycrystalline material to display extremely high elongations before failure, in a typically isotropic way, with an approximate strain rate of 0.5. Utilization of SPD techniques can also affect and lead to superior superelasticity responses in SMAs. Several SPD methodologies have been introduced over the decades, to produce ultrafine-grained and even nanostructured materials, including constrained groove pressing, equal-channel angular pressing, high-speed high-pressure torsion, accumulative roll bonding, etc. This paper aims to present a clear view of the mechanical properties and microstructure evolution of shape memory alloys after processing by some SPD methods, and to show that SPD methods can be a great option for developing SMAs and expanding their industrial and technological applications.
Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds in Exhaled Breath Following a COMEX-30 Treatment Table
Authors: de Jong Feiko J. M. , Wingelaar Thijs T. , Brinkman Paul , van Ooij Pieter-Jan A. M. , Maitland-van der Zee Anke H. , Hollmann Markus W. , van Hulst Rob A.
Published: February 2023

The COMEX-30 hyperbaric treatment table is used to manage decompression sickness in divers but may result in pulmonary oxygen toxicity (POT). Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath are early markers of hyperoxic stress that may be linked to POT. The present study assessed whether VOCs following COMEX-30 treatment are early markers of hyperoxic stress and/or POT in ten healthy, nonsmoking volunteers. Because more oxygen is inhaled during COMEX-30 treatment than with other treatment tables, this study hypothesized that VOCs exhaled following COMEX-30 treatment are indicators of POT. Breath samples were collected before and 0.5, 2, and 4 h after COMEX-30 treatment. All subjects were followed-up for signs of POT or other symptoms. Nine compounds were identified, with four (nonanal, decanal, ethyl acetate, and tridecane) increasing 33–500% in intensity from before to after COMEX-30 treatment. Seven subjects reported pulmonary symptoms, five reported out-of-proportion tiredness and transient ear fullness, and four had signs of mild dehydration. All VOCs identified following COMEX-30 treatment have been associated with inflammatory responses or pulmonary diseases, such as asthma or lung cancer. Because most subjects reported transient pulmonary symptoms reflecting early-stage POT, the identified VOCs are likely markers of POT, not just hyperbaric hyperoxic exposure.
Effects of Nodulation on Metabolite Concentrations in Xylem Sap and in the Organs of Soybean Plants Supplied with Different N Forms
Authors: Ohyama Takuji , Isaka Miyuki , Saito Akihiro , Higuchi Kyoko
Published: February 2023

The effects of nodulation on N metabolism in soybean plants supplied with various forms of N are not fully understood. Ureides are the principal forms of N transported from nodules, but nitrate and asparagine are the primary N compounds transported from roots supplied with NO3−. In this research, the effects of 1-day treatments of NO3−, NH4+, urea, or NO3− + NH4+ on N metabolite concentrations in xylem sap and each organ were compared between nodulated and non-nodulated soybeans. Capillary electrophoresis and colorimetry were used for the analysis. In the xylem sap of the nodulated plants with an N-free solution, ureides were the major N metabolites, followed by asparagine and glutamine. Ureides concentrations were much lower in the xylem sap of the non-nodulated soybeans. In the NO3− treatment, the concentrations of ureides in the xylem sap of the nodulated plants decreased compared to the control plants. In the NH4+, urea, and NO3− + NH4+ treatments, the concentrations of asparagine and glutamine increased significantly compared with the control and NO3− treatments. Similar changes with the N treatments were observed between the nodulated and non-nodulated soybeans, suggesting that nodulation does not have significant effects on the metabolism of absorbed N in roots.
Hepatic Mitochondria-Gut Microbiota Interactions in Metabolism-Associated Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Bellanti Francesco , Lo Buglio Aurelio , Vendemiale Gianluigi
Published: February 2023

The prevalence of metabolism-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) represents an urgent pandemic, complicated by a higher risk of morbidity and mortality as well as an increased socio-economic burden. There is growing evidence proving the impact of gut microbiota modifications on the development and progression of MAFLD through changes in metabolic pathways, modulation of the immune response, and activation of pro-inflammatory signals. Concurrently, metabolites produced by gut microbiota consisting of short chain fatty acids and bile acids contribute to the regulation of hepatic homeostasis by interacting with mitochondria. Evolving research indicates that innovative therapeutic targets for MAFLD may focus on gut microbiota–mitochondria interplay to regulate hepatic homeostasis. Recent investigations have explored the potential of new treatment strategies, such as prebiotics, probiotics, and metabolites, to change the composition of gut microbiota and simultaneously exert a positive impact on mitochondrial function to improve MAFLD. This review summarizes the significance of mitochondria and reports modifications in the composition of gut microbiota and its metabolites in MAFLD in order to illustrate the fascinating interplay between liver mitochondria and intestinal microbiota, discussing the potential effects of innovative treatments to modulate gut microbiota.
Inhibiting Angiogenesis by Anti-Cancer Saponins: From Phytochemistry to Cellular Signaling Pathways
Authors: Majnooni Mohammad Bagher , Fakhri Sajad , Ghanadian Syed Mustafa , Bahrami Gholamreza , Mansouri Kamran , Iranpanah Amin , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein , Mojarrab Mahdi
Published: February 2023

Saponins are one of the broadest classes of high-molecular-weight natural compounds, consisting mainly of a non-polar moiety with 27 to 30 carbons and a polar moiety containing sugars attached to the sapogenin structure. Saponins are found in more than 100 plant families as well as found in marine organisms. Saponins have several therapeutic effects, including their administration in the treatment of various cancers. These compounds also reveal noteworthy anti-angiogenesis effects as one of the critical strategies for inhibiting cancer growth and metastasis. In this study, a comprehensive review is performed on electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest. Accordingly, the structural characteristics of triterpenoid/steroid saponins and their anti-cancer effects were highlighted, focusing on their anti-angiogenic effects and related mechanisms. Consequently, the anti-angiogenic effects of saponins, inhibiting the expression of genes related to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF-1α) are two main anti-angiogenic mechanisms of triterpenoid and steroidal saponins. The inhibition of inflammatory signaling pathways that stimulate angiogenesis, such as pro-inflammatory cytokines, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs), and phosphoinositide 3-kinases/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), are other anti-angiogenic mechanisms of saponins. Furthermore, the anti-angiogenic and anti-cancer activity of saponins was closely related to the binding site of the sugar moiety, the type and number of their monosaccharide units, as well as the presence of some functional groups in their aglycone structure. Therefore, saponins are suitable candidates for cancer treatment by inhibiting angiogenesis, for which extensive pre-clinical and comprehensive clinical trial studies are recommended.
Sensor-on-Microtips: Design and Development of Hydrothermally Grown ZnO on Micropipette Tips as a Modified Working Electrode for Detection of Glucose
Authors: Ramasami Sundhar Baabu Priyannth , Mani Ganesh Kumar , Rayappan John Bosco Balaguru , Tsuyuki Yuichiro , Inazu Toshiyuki , Tsuchiya Kazuyoshi
Published: February 2023

Miniaturization of electrochemical components has become less common in the last decade, with the focus predominantly being the design and development of state-of-the-art microelectrodes for achieving small volume analysis of samples. However, such microelectrodes involve cumbersome processing procedures to convert the base material for the required application. A potential paradigm shift in such miniaturization could be achieved by using cheaper alternatives such as plastics to build electrochemical components, such as micropipette tips made of polypropylene, which are commercially available at ease. Hence, this work presents the design of an electrochemical working electrode based upon a micropipette tip, involving minimal processing procedures. Furthermore, such a working electrode was realized by sputtering silver onto a bare micropipette tip using a radio-frequency sputtering technique, to obtain electrical contacts on the tip, followed by hydrothermal growth of ZnO, which acted as the active electrode material. The ZnO nanostructures grown on the micropipette tip were characterized for their morphology and surface properties using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), laser microscope, Raman spectrometer, and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS). The developed micropipette tip-based electrode was then used as the working electrode in a three-electrode system, wherein its electrochemical stability and properties were analyzed using cyclic voltammetry (CV). Furthermore, the above system was used to detect glucose concentrations of 10–200 µM, to evaluate its sensing properties using amperometry. The developed working electrode exhibited a sensitivity of 69.02 µA/µM cm−2 and limit of detection of 67.5 µM, indicating the potential for using such modified micropipette tips as low-cost miniaturized sensors to detect various bio-analytes in sample solutions.
The Study of the Reliability of Complex Components during the Electromigration Process
Authors: Cui Hao , Tian Wenchao , Zhang Yiming , Chen Zhiqiang
Published: February 2023

With the increasing number of inputs and outputs, and the decreasing interconnection spacing, electrical interconnection failures caused by electromigration (EM) have attracted more and more attention. The electromigration reliability and failure mechanism of complex components were studied in this paper. The failure mechanism and reliability of complex components during the electromigration process were studied through the simulation and the experiment, which can overcome the limitation of experimental measurement at a micro-scale. The simulation results indicated that the solder joint has obvious current crowding at the current inlet, which will significantly enhance the electromigration effect. Based on the atomic flux divergence method, the void formation of solder joints can be effectively predicted, and life prediction can be more accurate than Black’s equation. Experimental results indicated that the resistance of the daisy chain could be significantly increased with the process of void formation in the solder and corrosion of the leads. Moreover, the growth of intermetallic compounds can be obviously promoted under current stress. The main composition of the intermetallic compounds changes from almost entirely Cu5Sn6 to Cu5Sn6 and Cu3Sn; the cracks can be detected at the Cu3Sn layer. Specifically, the mean time to failure is 1065 h under 1.4 A current and 125 °C based on IPC-9701A guidelines.
Prediction of Device Characteristics of Feedback Field-Effect Transistors Using TCAD-Augmented Machine Learning
Authors: Woo Sola , Jeon Juhee , Kim Sangsig
Published: February 2023

In this study, the device characteristics of silicon nanowire feedback field-effect transistors were predicted using technology computer-aided design (TCAD)-augmented machine learning (TCAD-ML). The full current–voltage (I-V) curves in forward and reverse voltage sweeps were predicted well, with high R-squared values of 0.9938 and 0.9953, respectively, by using random forest regression. Moreover, the TCAD-ML model provided high prediction accuracy not only for the full I-V curves but also for the important device features, such as the latch-up and latch-down voltages, saturation drain current, and memory window. Therefore, this study demonstrated that the TCAD-ML model can substantially reduce the computational time for device development compared with conventional simulation methods.
Amorphous ITZO-Based Selector Device for Memristor Crossbar Array
Authors: Kim Ki Han , Seo Min-Jae , Jang Byung Chul
Published: February 2023

In the era of digital transformation, a memristor and memristive circuit can provide an advanced computer architecture that efficiently processes a vast quantity of data. With the unique characteristic of memristor, a memristive crossbar array has been utilized for realization of nonvolatile memory, logic-in-memory circuit, and neuromorphic system. However, the crossbar array architecture suffers from leakage of current, known as the sneak current, which causes a cross-talk interference problem between adjacent memristor devices, leading to an unavoidable operational error and high power consumption. Here, we present an amorphous In-Sn-Zn-O (a-ITZO) oxide semiconductor-based selector device to address the sneak current issue. The a-ITZO-selector device is realized with the back-to-back Schottky diode with nonlinear current-voltage (I-V) characteristics. Its nonlinearity is dependent on the oxygen plasma treatment process which can suppress the surface electron accumulation layer arising on the a-ITZO surface. The a-ITZO-selector device shows reliable characteristics against electrical stress and high temperature. In addition, the selector device allows for a stable read margin over 1 Mbit of memristor crossbar array. The findings may offer a feasible solution for the development of a high-density memristor crossbar array.
Study on the Application of a Reflux Classifier in the Classification of Ultrafine Ilmenite
Authors: Chen Fulin , Gao Yu , Lu Dongfang , Liu Zhenqiang , Zhao Yan
Published: February 2023

Mineral classification is an important preparation operation in the process of beneficiation. The classification effect directly affects the production capacity of grinding machines, product quality, subsequent separation of the concentrate grade, and recovery. To improve mineral classification accuracy and provide technical ideas for enriching the separation of fine materials, this paper proposes the use of a trapezoidal inclined channel agitated reflux classifier (TARC) to classify ultra-fine ilmenite. The principle of this separating system is based on a hindered settling effect and fluidization theory. This study focuses on the factors influencing the particle separation through the optimization of different experimental conditions. A satisfactory 10 µm classification efficiency of 67.89% could be obtained when the ore pulp concentration was 15%, the agitation speed was 350 r/min, and the underflow flux was 16 cm3/min. The TARC realized a continuous feeding classification of fine particles within a narrow particle size range, with 10 µm as the limit size, and an effective reduction in the entrainment of fine particles in the underflow and coarse particles in the overflow phenomena, thus achieving improved classification efficiency.
Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Reveals the Mechanisms of Sinapine Alleviate Macrophage Foaming
Authors: Liu Aiyang , Liao Bin , Yin Shipeng , Ye Zhan , He Mengxue , Li Xue , Liu Yuanfa , Xu Yongjiang
Published: February 2023

Rapeseed polyphenols have cardiovascular protective effects. Sinapine, one main rapeseed polyphenol, possesses antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties. However, no research has been published about the role of sinapine in alleviating macrophage foaming. This study aimed to reveal the macrophage foaming alleviation mechanism of sinapine by applying quantitative proteomics and bioinformatics analyses. A new approach was developed to retrieve sinapine from rapeseed meals by using hot-alcohol-reflux-assisted sonication combined with anti-solvent precipitation. The sinapine yield of the new approach was significantly higher than in traditional methods. Proteomics was performed to investigate the effects of sinapine on foam cells, and it showed that sinapine can alleviate foam cell formation. Moreover, sinapine suppressed CD36 expression, enhanced the CDC42 expression, and activated the JAK2 and the STAT3 in the foam cells. These findings suggest that the action of sinapine on foam cells inhibits cholesterol uptake, activates cholesterol efflux, and converts macrophages from pro-inflammatory M1 to anti-inflammatory M2. This study confirms the abundance of sinapine in rapeseed oil by-products and elucidates the biochemical mechanisms of sinapine that alleviates macrophage foaming, which may provide new perspectives for reprocessing rapeseed oil by-products.
Brief History, Preparation Method, and Biological Application of Mesoporous Silica Molecular Sieves: A Narrative Review
Authors: Li Qiuping , Zhou You
Published: February 2023

It has been more than 30 years since the first ordered mesoporous silica molecular sieve (MCM-41) was reported, but the enthusiasm for exploiting mesoporous silica is still growing due to its superior properties, such as its controllable morphology, excellent hosting capability, easy functionalization, and good biocompatibility. In this narrative review, the brief history of the discovery of mesoporous silica and several important mesoporous silica families are summarized. The development of mesoporous silica microspheres with nanoscale dimensions, hollow mesoporous silica microspheres, and dendritic mesoporous silica nanospheres is also described. Meanwhile, common synthesis methods for traditional mesoporous silica, mesoporous silica microspheres, and hollow mesoporous silica microspheres are discussed. Then, we introduce the biological applications of mesoporous silica in fields such as drug delivery, bioimaging, and biosensing. We hope this review will help people to understand the history of the development of mesoporous silica molecular sieves and become familiar with their synthesis methods and applications in biology.
Molecular Docking and In Vitro Studies of Ochratoxin A (OTA) Biodetoxification Testing Three Endopeptidases
Authors: Orozco-Cortés Pablo César , Flores-Ortíz Cesar Mateo , Hernández-Portilla Luis Barbo , Vázquez Medrano Josefina , Rodríguez-Peña Olga Nelly
Published: February 2023

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is considered one of the main mycotoxins responsible for health problems and considerable economic losses in the feed industry. The aim was to study OTA’s detoxifying potential of commercial protease enzymes: (i) Ananas comosus bromelain cysteine-protease, (ii) bovine trypsin serine-protease and (iii) Bacillus subtilis neutral metalloendopeptidase. In silico studies were performed with reference ligands and T-2 toxin as control, and in vitro experiments. In silico study results showed that tested toxins interacted near the catalytic triad, similar to how the reference ligands behave in all tested proteases. Likewise, based on the proximity of the amino acids in the most stable poses, the chemical reaction mechanisms for the transformation of OTA were proposed. In vitro experiments showed that while bromelain reduced OTA’s concentration in 7.64% at pH 4.6; trypsin at 10.69% and the neutral metalloendopeptidase in 8.2%, 14.44%, 45.26% at pH 4.6, 5 and 7, respectively (p < 0.05). The less harmful α-ochratoxin was confirmed with trypsin and the metalloendopeptidase. This study is the first attempt to demonstrate that: (i) bromelain and trypsin can hydrolyse OTA in acidic pH conditions with low efficiency and (ii) the metalloendopeptidase was an effective OTA bio-detoxifier. This study confirmed α-ochratoxin as a final product of the enzymatic reactions in real-time practical information on OTA degradation rate, since in vitro experiments simulated the time that food spends in poultry intestines, as well as their natural pH and temperature conditions.
CO2 Capture Membrane for Long-Cycle Lithium-Air Battery
Authors: Wang Jiawei , Chen Yanli , Zhao Yunfeng , Yao Chongyan , Liu Yibo , Liu Xizheng
Published: February 2023

Lithium-air batteries (LABs) have attracted extensive attention due to their ultra-high energy density. At present, most LABs are operated in pure oxygen (O2) since carbon dioxide (CO2) under ambient air will participate in the battery reaction and generate an irreversible by-product of lithium carbonate (Li2CO3), which will seriously affect the performance of the battery. Here, to solve this problem, we propose to prepare a CO2 capture membrane (CCM) by loading activated carbon encapsulated with lithium hydroxide (LiOH@AC) onto activated carbon fiber felt (ACFF). The effect of the LiOH@AC loading amount on ACFF has been carefully investigated, and CCM has an ultra-high CO2 adsorption performance (137 cm3 g−1) and excellent O2 transmission performance by loading 80 wt% LiOH@AC onto ACFF. The optimized CCM is further applied as a paster on the outside of the LAB. As a result, the specific capacity performance of LAB displays a sharp increase from 27,948 to 36,252 mAh g−1, and the cycle time is extended from 220 h to 310 h operating in a 4% CO2 concentration environment. The concept of carbon capture paster opens a simple and direct way for LABs operating in the atmosphere.
Yohimbine Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Suppresses Aerobic Cysteine Metabolism Elevated in the Rat Liver of High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats
Authors: Iciek Małgorzata , Górny Magdalena , Kotańska Magdalena , Bilska-Wilkosz Anna , Kaczor-Kamińska Marta , Zagajewski Jacek
Published: February 2023

Yohimbine is a small indole alkaloid derived from the bark of the yohimbe tree with documented biological activity, including anti-inflammatory, erectile dysfunction relieving, and fat-burning properties. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and sulfane sulfur-containing compounds are regarded as important molecules in redox regulation and are involved in many physiological processes. Recently, their role in the pathophysiology of obesity and obesity-induced liver injury was also reported. The aim of the present study was to verify whether the mechanism of biological activity of yohimbine is related to reactive sulfur species formed during cysteine catabolism. We tested the effect of yohimbine at doses of 2 and 5 mg/kg/day administered for 30 days on aerobic and anaerobic catabolism of cysteine and oxidative processes in the liver of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats. Our study revealed that HFD resulted in a decrease in cysteine and sulfane sulfur levels in the liver, while sulfates were elevated. In the liver of obese rats, rhodanese expression was diminished while lipid peroxidation increased. Yohimbine did not influence sulfane sulfur and thiol levels in the liver of obese rats, however, this alkaloid at a dose of 5 mg decreased sulfates to the control level and induced expression of rhodanese. Moreover, it diminished hepatic lipid peroxidation. It can be concluded that HFD attenuates anaerobic and enhances aerobic cysteine catabolism and induces lipid peroxidation in the rat liver. Yohimbine at a dose of 5 mg/kg can alleviate oxidative stress and reduce elevated concentrations of sulfate probably by the induction of TST expression.
A New Family of Macrocyclic Polyamino Biphenolic Ligands: Acid-Base Study, Zn(II) Coordination and Glyphosate/AMPA Binding
Authors: Giacomazzo Gina Elena , Paderni Daniele , Giorgi Luca , Formica Mauro , Mari Lorenzo , Montis Riccardo , Conti Luca , Macedi Eleonora , Valtancoli Barbara , Giorgi Claudia , Fusi Vieri
Published: February 2023

In this study, the ligands 23,24-dihydroxy-3,6,9,12-tetraazatricyclo[17.3.1.1(14,18)]eicosatetra-1(23),14,16,18(24),19,21-hexaene, L1, and 26,27-dihidroxy-3,6,9,12,15-pentaazatricyclo[20.3.1.1(17,21)]eicosaepta-1(26),17,19,21(27),22,24-hexaene, L2, were synthesized: they represent a new class of molecules containing a biphenol unit inserted into a macrocyclic polyamine fragment. The previously synthesized L2 is obtained herein with a more advantageous procedure. The acid-base and Zn(II)-binding properties of L1 and L2 were investigated through potentiometric, UV-Vis, and fluorescence studies, revealing their possible use as chemosensors of H+ and Zn(II). The new peculiar design of L1 and L2 afforded the formation in an aqueous solution of stable Zn(II) mono (LogK 12.14 and 12.98 for L1 and L2, respectively) and dinuclear (LogK 10.16 for L2) complexes, which can be in turn exploited as metallo-receptors for the binding of external guests, such as the popular herbicide glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine, PMG) and its primary metabolite, the aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA). Potentiometric studies revealed that PMG forms more stable complexes than AMPA with both L1- and L2-Zn(II) complexes, moreover PMG showed higher affinity for L2 than for L1. Fluorescence studies showed instead that the L1-Zn(II) complex could signal the presence of AMPA through a partial quenching of the fluorescence emission. These studies unveiled therefore the utility of polyamino-phenolic ligands in the design of promising metallo-receptors for elusive environmental targets.