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(1) Background: Dental glass–ceramics shrink during crystallization, complicating restoration manufacturing. Thermo-pressure molding was introduced to address this, with lithium disilicate crystals providing high strength. Residual tensile stresses can influence the chipping strength of single tooth crowns. (2) Methods: Insync dentine was layered onto three lithia-based disilicate core ceramics (Amber Press, IPS e.max Press) for microtensile bond strength tests. The Vickers test assessed the residual tensile stress and interfacial bonding. Porcelain-veneered posterior ceramic crowns were fabricated and subjected to axial loading, measuring fracture loads (three per group). (3) Results: A chemical bonding layer formed at the interface, which was thicker in the Insync-IPS e.max Press and increased with more firings. The ultimate tensile bond strength was 28.5 MPa for the four-times-fired Insync-Amber Press, similar to the twice-fired Insync-IPS e.max Press. No residual tensile stress was found in the Insync-Amber Press; the Insync-IPS e.max Press showed crack growth within 250 μm of the bonded interface. The average fracture resistance was twice as high for the Insync-Amber Press. (4) Conclusions: The Insync-Amber Press exhibited better thermal harmony with no crack growth, while the IPS e.max Press showed crack growth due to residual tensile stress. Insync-Amber Press posterior ceramic crowns had significantly greater fracture resistance than Insync-IPS e.max Press crowns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding emotional states is pivotal for the development of next-generation human-machine interfaces. Human behaviors in social interactions have resulted in psycho-physiological processes influenced by perceptual inputs. Therefore, efforts to comprehend brain functions and human behavior could potentially catalyze the development of AI models with human-like attributes. In this study, we introduce a multimodal emotion dataset comprising data from 30-channel electroencephalography (EEG), audio, and video recordings from 42 participants. Each participant engaged in a cue-based conversation scenario, eliciting five distinct emotions: neutral, anger, happiness, sadness, and calmness. Throughout the experiment, each participant contributed 200 interactions, which encompassed both listening and speaking. This resulted in a cumulative total of 8,400 interactions across all participants. We evaluated the baseline performance of emotion recognition for each modality using established deep neural network (DNN) methods. The Emotion in EEG-Audio-Visual (EAV) dataset represents the first public dataset to incorporate three primary modalities for emotion recognition within a conversational context. We anticipate that this dataset will make significant contributions to the modeling of the human emotional process, encompassing both fundamental neuroscience and machine learning viewpoints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thick and dense graphite anodes used in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) suffer from sluggish reaction kinetics at the electrode level, causing Li metal plating on their surfaces and significant capacity decay at high charging currents. Thus, it is crucial to tailor electrodes based on a comprehensive understanding of the complex reaction kinetics to realize fast‐charging LIBs. A multi‐interface strategy is proposed for electrode tailoring using Al2O3 nanoparticles to enhance fast‐charging capability while suppressing Li metal plating. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the incorporated Al2O3 nanoparticles perturb the charge and molecule distributions in the boundary layer, forming an "interfacial highway" for facile Li+ transport at the Al2O3/electrolyte interface. This pushes Li+ deeper into the electrode and homogenizes the Li+ flux across the electrode's top surface. A full cell assembled with the Al2O3‐decorated graphite electrode (areal capacity of 4.4 mAh cm−2) exhibits excellent cyclability with a capacity retention of 83.4% over 500 cycles even at a 2C rate without any noticeable signal for undesirable Li plating. The role of interfacial highways predicted by theoretical computations is further validated using a pouch‐type full cell (500 mAh). These findings provide insights into the interfacial and microstructural design of high‐capacity graphite electrodes for fast‐charging, long‐cycling LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since Grover developed a quantum search algorithm for unstructured data, generalizing the algorithm to structured datasets, which can be represented as graphs, has been an important research topic. Recently, Krovi et al. introduced a quantum algorithm that can find a marked vertex on any ergodic and reversible graph by using absorbing marked vertices, replacing the marked vertices with partially absorbing vertices. The algorithm was extended to finding marked vertices in any graph with multiple marked vertices using the quantum fast-forwarding technique (QFF). However, the proof of this result based on QFF does not provide much intuition about the underlying mechanism. In this paper, to obtain the underlying mechanism of the quantum search with absorbing marked vertices, we consider, as a nontrivial example, the complete bipartite graph consisting of two sets X 1 and X 2 with the marked vertices being on both vertex sets. By analytically finding the spectral information of the quantum walk, we propose an approximate optimal search parameter s o . We demonstrate that the quantum algorithm at the optimal search parameter s o shows a quadratic speedup compared to the corresponding classical search method if the number of marked vertices is smaller than the total number of vertices. Additionally, we find that the quantum search is described in terms of a two-state model for that case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly conducting nanomaterials have garnered significant attention owing to their potential application in Li‐ion batteries for stable electrodes. However, concerns persist regarding their dispersion and effective hybridization with active materials. This study reports a novel approach to enhance Si‐based anode materials using less defective graphene oxide (C‐GO) and highly oxidized single‐walled carbon nanotubes (C‐SWCNTs) fabricated using chlorate‐based oxidation. The method involves encapsulating Si alloy (SiA) particles with C‐GO and C‐SWCNTs, eliminating the need for additional additives. Composite structures with lithiophilic N‐doped SWCNTs and highly crystalline reduced C‐GO coatings on SiA surfaces are created through spray drying and subsequent chemical reduction. This unique combination yields high capacities, stable retention behaviors, and remarkable initial capacities (1224 mAh g−1) with excellent retention rates (82.3% at 100 cycles, 0.1 C). A LIB full‐cell with a SiA/nanocarbon anode exhibited a high energy density of 350 Wh kg−1, while maintaining 65% capacity retention after 200 cycles. The findings demonstrate the potential of this hybrid approach, which eliminates the need for other conducting additives while maintaining a minimal binder content (5 wt.%). This study presents a promising approach for enhancing Si‐based anode materials in lithium‐ion batteries, addressing the dispersion and hybridization challenges in nanomaterial‐enabled electrode design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in the Journal of Neurological Surgery, discusses a case presentation of a 2-year-old boy with a tubero-infundibular craniopharyngioma. The boy had a history of previous surgeries and developed visual abnormalities due to the growth of the tumor. The authors used an endoscopic endonasal transplanum approach to completely remove the tumor, resulting in improvement of visual symptoms. However, the patient did develop diabetes insipidus postoperatively. The article provides valuable insights into the treatment of pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the surgical anatomy of the transmastoid transcervical intradural approach to the jugular foramen, which is a challenging area for skull base surgeons due to the presence of critical structures. The approach is versatile and allows for modifications to tailor it to specific tumors. The article provides a detailed description of the surgical steps and relevant anatomy, including variations such as vertebral artery transposition and facial nerve rerouting. The transmastoid transcervical intradural approach provides excellent exposure to the jugular foramen and surrounding areas, but precise knowledge of the anatomy is crucial due to the complex relationships of vital structures in this region. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the surgical technique of endoscopic endonasal pituitary sacrifice (EE-PS) for selected complex tumors with retrochiasmatic and retroclival extension. The study describes the relevant surgical anatomy and step-by-step operative technique of EE-PS. The authors also report their clinical experience with 13 patients who underwent EE-PS, including their indications, outcomes, and complications. The article concludes that EE-PS is a feasible surgical option to improve visibility and accessibility to the retroclival and retrochiasmatic space, thus increasing tumor resectability. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the feasibility of using robotic surgery for posterior fossa skull base surgery. The authors conducted a study using the DaVinci Xi platform and prepared three silicone-injected postmortem heads for the surgery. They conducted three different approaches and graded the surgical freedom of the tools for each approach. The results showed that while robotic surgery has potential for posterior fossa skull base surgery, appropriate tools need to be developed. [Extracted from the article]

Highlights: A scalable tape-casting method produces self-supported porous Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12. Combining the in-situ polymerization approach, a composite solid electrolyte with superior electrochemical properties is fabricated. Solid-state Li|CSE|LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cells show remarkable cyclability and rate capability. LiF-and B-rich interphase layers mitigate interfacial reactions, enhancing solid-state battery performance. Composite solid electrolytes (CSEs) have emerged as promising candidates for safe and high-energy–density solid-state lithium metal batteries (SSLMBs). However, concurrently achieving exceptional ionic conductivity and interface compatibility between the electrolyte and electrode presents a significant challenge in the development of high-performance CSEs for SSLMBs. To overcome these challenges, we present a method involving the in-situ polymerization of a monomer within a self-supported porous Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZT) to produce the CSE. The synergy of the continuous conductive LLZT network, well-organized polymer, and their interface can enhance the ionic conductivity of the CSE at room temperature. Furthermore, the in-situ polymerization process can also construct the integration and compatibility of the solid electrolyte–solid electrode interface. The synthesized CSE exhibited a high ionic conductivity of 1.117 mS cm−1, a significant lithium transference number of 0.627, and exhibited electrochemical stability up to 5.06 V vs. Li/Li+ at 30 °C. Moreover, the Li|CSE|LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cell delivered a discharge capacity of 105.1 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles at 0.5 C and 30 °C, corresponding to a capacity retention of 61%. This methodology could be extended to a variety of ceramic, polymer electrolytes, or battery systems, thereby offering a viable strategy to improve the electrochemical properties of CSEs for high-energy–density SSLMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and antidiabetic activity of Brugmansia arborea L. flower extracts, solvent fractions, and isolated compounds. B. arborea L flowers were extracted with aqueous methanol, and concentrated extract was successively partitioned into EtOAc, n-BuOH, and H2O fractions. Repeated silica gel and octadecyl silica gel column chromatographies for EtOAc and n-BuOH fractions led to the isolation of a new phenylalkyl glycoside (6), along with five known ones. Several spectroscopic data led to the structure determination of one new phenylalky glycoside as brugmansioside C (named) (6) and five known ones as benzyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), benzyl-O-β-D-glucosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (2), 2-phenylethyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), 2-phenylethyl-O-β-D-glucosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), and 3-phenylpropyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5). The five known ones (1–5) were isolated from B. arborea flowers for the first time in this study. The extract, solvent fractions, and all isolated compounds showed radical scavenging activities using ABTS radical, and EtOAc fraction showed the highest scavenging capacity, whereas compounds 2, 4, and 6 did not display the capacity to use the DPPH radical. The extract, solvent fractions, and all isolated compounds showed a protective effect on pancreatic islets damaged by alloxan treatment in zebrafish larvae. The pancreatic islet size treated with EtOAc, n-BuOH fractions, and all compounds significantly increased by 64.0%, 69.4%, 82.0%, 89.8%, 80.0%, 97.8%, 103.1%, and 99.6%, respectively, compared to the alloxan-induced group. These results indicate that B. arborea flowers and their isolated compounds are useful as potential antioxidant and antidiabetic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common clinical situation in neurosurgical practice, but the optimal treatment option is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cholesterol-lowering medications on and how they affected the prognoses of CSDH patients. Methods: In this multi-institutional observational study performed in Korea, data from recently treated CSDH patients were gathered from 5 hospitals. A total of 462 patients were collected from March 2010 to June 2021. Patient clinical characteristics, history of underlying diseases and their treatments, radiologic features, and surgical outcomes were analyzed. Results: Seventy-five patients experienced recurrences, and 62 had reoperations after the initial burr hole surgery. Among these, 15 patients with recurrences and 12 with reoperations were taking cholesterol-lowering medications. However, the use of medications did not significantly affect recurrence or reoperation rates (P = 0.350, P = 0.336, respectively). When analyzed by type of medication, no clinically relevant differences in total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were identified. The combination of a statin drug and ezetimibe significantly elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (P = 0.004). TC, LDL-C, and TG levels did not significantly affect patient prognoses. However, HDL-C levels and recurrence (odds ratio (OR) = 0.96; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.94–0.99; p = 0.010) were negatively correlated. An HDL-C level of 42.50 mg/dL was identified as the threshold for recurrence and reoperation. Conclusions: In this study, using cholesterol-lowering medications did not significantly impact the prognosis of patients who underwent surgical management for a chronic subdural hematoma. However, the findings showed that the higher the HDL-C level, the lower the probability of recurrence and reoperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An air conditioning unit with the HEPA filter should be operated in the dismantling workspace of nuclear power plants because of massive release of radioactive aerosols due to radioactively contaminated metal cutting. The HEPA filter has a good performance against nano- or micro-sized aerosols but is frequently replaced to maintain the filtration efficiency in the workplace. A woven metal fiber mesh filter (Type I) and a woven metal and glassy fiber mesh filter (Type II) have been developed as prefilter to increase the lifespan of HEPA filter. The accredited certification according to ASHRAE Standard 52.2 methodology showed that Type I and Type II filters were certified the MERV rating 7 and 10 respectively. The filtration efficiency of each filter has been evaluated under the metal cutting environment with plasma torch. Aerosols at upstream and downstream sides of the filter were simultaneously measured in the ranges of 6 nm to 10 µm with high-resolution impactor, and filtration efficiency of each filter was calculated with the measured size distribution of aerosols. Experimental results showed that Type II filter had higher efficiency in the ranges of 0.3 to 10 µm than Type I filter and met the MERV rating 10. Both filters showed the minimum filtration efficiency of about 60–70% at 0.3 µm, which is a theoretical MPPS of HEPA filter. Both filters are adequate for pre-filter of the HEPA filter and could contribute to mitigation of the particle removal load on the HEPA filter and the life extension of the HEPA filter. Copyright © 2023 American Association for Aerosol Research [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current epidemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, has caused widespread devastation, with millions of people killed and millions more suffering from a variety of adverse effects. Due to this, it is crucial to implement screening procedures, such as the creation of highly sensitive technologies for early and rapid diagnosis. The current work thus demonstrates the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 variant, Omicron, employing specific aptamers created in a four-way junction (4-WJ) immobilized on boron sheets, also known as borophene, coated on an indium tin oxide surface. Borophene, a crystalline atomic monolayer of boron with a lattice spacing of 2.9 Å, is introduced as a transducer material for Omicron's RNA electrochemical (EC) sensing. Its qualities are comparable to or even superior to those of graphene and Mxene when compared with electrochemical measurements, and it possessed a band gap of 3.5 eV. Further, as microRNAs are widely considered to be promising biomarker probes for sickness diagnoses, we designed a structure of 4-WJ aptamers on the surface of borophene nanocubes that allowed for the accurate identification of viral samples. The electrode material and sensor fabrication procedures were characterized by using analytical tools and EC measurements. The modified electrodes demonstrated higher electron transfer rates (k0) than their bare counterparts, with a k0 value of 0.0049 cm s–1 and a charge transfer resistance (Rct) of 65 Ω. The biosensor performed well in the quantification of Omicron and can detect as low as 1.78 × 10–16 M with a linear range from 0.1 to 1000 pg/mL. The sensor was also employed for clinical sample testing, which showed high reproducibility when done in parallel studies, and the selectivity and stability tests (>2 weeks) verified its usability in real-world situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels have gained significant attention as biomaterials due to their remarkable properties resembling those of the extracellular matrix (ECM). In the present investigation, we successfully synthesized interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogels using gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and sodium alginate (SA), incorporating various concentrations of lithium chloride (LiCl; 0, 5, and 10 mM), aiming to develop a hydrogel scaffold for bone regeneration. Notably, the compressive modulus of the IPN hydrogels remained largely unaffected upon the inclusion of LiCl. However, the hydrogel with the high concentration of LiCl exhibited reduced fragmentation after compression testing. Intriguingly, we observed a significant improvement in cellular biocompatibility, primarily attributed to activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway induced by LiCl. Subsequently, we evaluated the efficacy of the newly developed IPN-Li hydrogels in a rat cranial defect model and found that they substantially enhanced bone regeneration. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the introduction of high concentrations of LiCl did not significantly promote osteogenesis. This outcome can be attributed to the excessive release of Li+ ions into the extracellular matrix, hindering the desired effect. Overall, the IPN-Li hydrogel developed in this study holds great promise as a biodegradable material for bone regeneration applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radioactive substances released as nuclear power plant accident can contaminate soil in a wide area. Soil washing is used as decontamination technique for Cs-contaminated soil, which exhibits short processing time and maximization of Cs removal rate by applying flocculating agents. However, soil washing generates secondary waste in the form of sludge/slurry. In this context, proposed a method of pelletization and solidification of powdered waste to facilitate treatment/disposal of the Cs-contaminated fine soil (secondary waste). In addition, by characterizing the prepared waste form, it was examined whether waste form satisfies Waste Acceptance Criteria for disposal facilities in South Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease characterized by increased sebum production, inflammation, and Cutibacterium acnes (CA: formerly Propionibacterium acnes) hyperproliferation in pilosebaceous follicles. This study evaluated the efficacy of FRO, a formula composed of fermented Rhus verniciflua Stokes and Orostachys japonicus, against acne pathogenesis via antimicrobial assessment and an in vitro analysis. Stimulated model cells treated with hormones, CA, or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were designed based on the characteristics of acne pathogenesis, including inflammation and sebum hypersecretion. High-performance liquid chromatography, disc diffusion, MTS, and western blotting assays were used to examine potential anti-acne effects. FRO was determined to contain phenolics such as gallic acid, fisetin, quercetin, and kaempferol. FRO exerted antimicrobial activity against CA and inhibited reactive oxygen species production that was otherwise increased by LPS or CA in HaCaT cells. Additionally, FRO exerted anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6, p-STAT-3, and p-NF-κB, which were previously upregulated by LPS or CA in THP-1 and HaCaT cells. FRO inhibited lipogenesis induced by steroid hormones and CA by decreasing FAS and SREBP-1 levels in sebocytes. Additionally, FRO down-regulated the androgen receptor, 5α-reductase, SREBP-1, and FAS levels, which were upregulated by steroid hormone in LNCaP cells. Taken together, our findings suggest that FRO alleviates acne by inhibiting the growth of CA, inflammation, and excess sebum and could be used for functional cosmetics or acne treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel virus that has been affecting the global population by spreading rapidly and causing severe complications, which require prompt and elaborate emergency treatment. Automatic tools to diagnose COVID-19 could potentially be an important and useful aid. Radiologists and clinicians could potentially rely on interpretable AI technologies to address the diagnosis and monitoring of COVID-19 patients. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the state-of-the-art deep learning techniques for COVID-19 classification. The previous studies are methodically evaluated, and a summary of the proposed convolutional neural network (CNN)-based classification approaches is presented. The reviewed papers have presented a variety of CNN models and architectures that were developed to provide an accurate and quick automatic tool to diagnose the COVID-19 virus based on presented CT scan or X-ray images. In this systematic review, we focused on the critical components of the deep learning approach, such as network architecture, model complexity, parameter optimization, explainability, and dataset/code availability. The literature search yielded a large number of studies over the past period of the virus spread, and we summarized their past efforts. State-of-the-art CNN architectures, with their strengths and weaknesses, are discussed with respect to diverse technical and clinical evaluation metrics to safely implement current AI studies in medical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of magnesium coated with strontium-doped calcium phosphate (Sr-CaP) for dental and orthopedic applications. Sr-CaP was coated on biodegradable magnesium using a chemical dipping method. Magnesium coated with Sr-CaP exhibited better corrosion resistance than pure magnesium. Sr-CaP-coated magnesium showed excellent cell proliferation and differentiation. Additionally, new bone formation was confirmed in vivo. Therefore, Sr-CaP-coated magnesium with reduced degradation and improved biocompatibility can be used for orthopedic and dental implant applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The susceptibility, risk factors, and prognosis of COVID‐19 in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain unknown. Thus, our study aims to assess the prevalence and clinical outcomes of COVID‐19 in IBD. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and medRxiv from 2019 to 1 June 2022 for cohort and case‐control studies comparing the prevalence and clinical outcomes of COVID‐19 in patients with IBD and in the general population. We also compared the outcomes of patients receiving and not receiving 5‐aminosalicylates (ASA), tumour necrosis factor antagonists, biologics, systemic corticosteroids, or immunomodulators for IBD. Thirty five studies were eligible for our analysis. Pooled odds ratio of COVID‐19‐related hospitalisation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, or death in IBD compared to in non‐IBD were 0.58 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.28–1.18), 1.09 (95% CI = 0.27–4.47), and 0.67 (95% CI = 0.32–1.42), respectively. Inflammatory bowel disease was not associated with increased hospitalisation, ICU admission, or death. Susceptibility to COVID‐19 did not increase with any drugs for IBD. Hospitalisation, ICU admission, and death were more likely with 5‐ASA and corticosteroid use. COVID‐19‐related hospitalisation (Odds Ratio (OR): 0.53; 95% CI = 0.38–0.74) and death (OR: 0.13; 95% CI = 0.13–0.70) were less likely with Crohn's disease than ulcerative colitis (UC). In conclusion, IBD does not increase the mortality and morbidity of COVID‐19. However, physicians should be aware that additional monitoring is needed in UC patients or in patients taking 5‐ASA or systemic corticosteroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres loaded with the ginger fraction were fabricated by controlling the electrospray parameters and their biocompatibility and antibacterial activity were identified in this study. The morphology of the microspheres was observed using scanning electron microscopy. The core-shell structures of the microparticles and the presence of ginger fraction in the microspheres were confirmed by fluorescence analysis using a confocal laser scanning microscopy system. In addition, the biocompatibility and antibacterial activity of PLGA microspheres loaded with ginger fraction were evaluated through a cytotoxicity test using osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells and an antibacterial test using Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sanguinis, respectively. The optimum PLGA microspheres loaded with ginger fraction were fabricated under electrospray operational conditions with 3% PLGA concentration in solution, an applied voltage of 15.5 kV, a flow rate of 15 µL/min in the shell nozzle, and 3 µL/min in the core nozzle. The effectual antibacterial effect and enhanced biocompatibility were identified when a 3% ginger fraction in PLGA microspheres was loaded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological advancements in the healthcare sector have pushed for improved sensors and devices for disease diagnosis and treatment. Recently, with the discovery of numerous biomarkers for various specific physiological conditions, early disease screening has become a possibility. Biomarkers are the body's early warning systems, which are indicators of a biological state that provides a standardized and precise way of evaluating the progression of disease or infection. Owing to the extremely low concentrations of various biomarkers in bodily fluids, signal amplification strategies have become crucial for the detection of biomarkers. Metal nanoparticles are commonly applied on 2D platforms to anchor antibodies and enhance the signals for electrochemical biomarker detection. In this context, this review will discuss the recent trends and advances in metal nanoparticle decorated 2D materials for electrochemical biomarker detection. The prospects, advantages, and limitations of this strategy also will be discussed in the concluding section of this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gingerols and shogaols derived from ginger have excellent antibacterial properties against oral bacteria. However, some researchers have noted their dose-dependent potential toxicity. The aim of this study was to enhance the biofunctionality and biocompatibility of the application of ginger to dental titanium screws. To increase the amount of coating of the n-hexane-fractionated ginger on the titanium surface and to control its release, ginger was loaded in different concentrations in a photo-crosslinkable GelMA hydrogel. To improve coating stability of the ginger hydrogel (GH), the wettability of the surface was modified by pre-calcification (TNC), then GH was applied on the surface. As a result, the ginger fraction, with a high content of phenolic compounds, was effective in the inhibition of the growth of S. mutans and P. gingivalis. The GH slowly released the main compounds of ginger and showed excellent antibacterial effects with the concentration. Although bone regeneration was slightly reduced with the ginger-loading concentration due to the increased contents of polyphenolic compounds, it was strongly supplemented through the promotion of osteosis formation by the hydrogel and TNC coating. Finally, we proved the biosafety and superior biofunctionalities the GH−TNC coating on a Ti implant. However, it is recommended to use an appropriate concentration, because an excessive concentration of ginger may affect the improved biocompatibility in clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spiegelmers are enantiomers of natural D-oligonucleotides that bind to targets with distinct structures such as aptamers. The high susceptibility of natural D-form aptamers to nucleases greatly hinders their application in biological environments. Here, a nonbiodegradable spiegelmer-based platform for the sensitive detection of bisphenol A (BPA) was developed. Due to the symmetric molecule of BPA, the D-form aptamer can be directly converted into mirror forms via chemical synthesis. Aptamer–target interactions that involve chemically synthesized spiegelmers were characterized by biolayer interferometry, and their stabilities were tested in various biological fluids by exposure to nucleases. We demonstrate for the first time the use of a nuclease-resistant spiegelmer in a simple, label-free gold nanoparticle-based colorimetric assay to detect BPA in a highly sensitive and selective manner. The aptasensor exhibits an LOD of 0.057 ng/mL and dynamic range of 105 (100 pg/mL to 10 mg/mL). With sensing capacity and biological stability, the developed aptasensor shows great potential to utilize in in-field applications such as water quality monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flow cytometry has become an indispensable tool for counting, analyzing, and sorting large cell populations in biological research and medical practice. Unfortunately, it has limitations in the analysis of non-spherically shaped cells due to the variation of their alignment with respect to the flow direction and, hence, the optical interrogation axis, resulting in unreliable cell analysis. Here, we present a simple on-chip acoustofluidic method to fix the orientation of ellipsoidal cells and focus them into a single, aligned stream. Specifically, by generating acoustic standing waves inside a 100 ⋅ 100 µm square-shaped microchannel, we successfully aligned and focused up to 97.7% of a population of Euglena gracilis (an ellipsoidal shaped microalgal species) cells in the center of the microchannel with high precision at a volume rate of 25 to 200 µL min−1. Uniform positioning of ellipsoidal cells is essential for making flow cytometry applicable to the investigation of a greater variety of cell populations and is expected to be beneficial for ecological studies and aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium (Mg), as a biodegradable material, is a promising candidate for orthopedic surgery. Long-bone fractures usually occur in cancellous-bone-rich epiphysis at each end or the cortical-rich diaphysis in the center, with different bone healing processes. Little is known about the differences in results between the two regions when applying Mg implants. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the biodegradation and osteogenesis of Mg implants in a rat model's epiphysis and diaphysis of the long bone. Twelve male Sprague Dawley rats underwent Mg rod implantation in the distal femoral epiphyses and tibial diaphyses. Every three weeks for up to twelve weeks, degradation behavior, gas evolution, and new bone formation were measured by micro CT. Histomorphology was analyzed by Hematoxylin and Eosin, Villanueva bone staining, and TRAP staining for osteoclastogenesis evaluations. Micro-CT analysis showed statistically significant higher new bone formation in the epiphysis group than in the diaphysis group, which correlated with a lower gas volume. Histological analysis showed higher osseointegration of Mg implants in the epiphyseal region than in the diaphyseal region. The magnesium implant's osteoclastogenesis-inhibiting properties were shown in the surrounding areas in both the cortical bone of the diaphysis and the cancellous bone of the epiphysis. Our findings show the differences in the magnesium implant's osteogenesis and biodegradation in the epiphysis and the diaphysis. These dissimilarities indicate a better response of the epiphyseal region to the Mg implants, a promising biomaterial for orthopedic surgery applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The curvature of a videolaryngoscope blade has been diversified from the standard macintosh-type to the hyperacute-angle-type, resulting in different performances. We aimed to determine the intubation success rate and identify predictors of difficult intubation when using an intermediate-angled videolaryngoscope in the first attempt of intubation under routine anaesthesia settings. We enrolled 808 patients between 19 and 79 years of age, scheduled for elective surgeries under general anaesthesia with orotracheal intubation from July 2017 to November 2018; patients who were candidates for awake intubation were excluded. We obtained patient demographic data and performed airway evaluation before induction of anaesthesia for elective surgeries. We used the UEScope for tracheal intubation with a hockey stick-shaped malleable stylet. The intubation time was defined as the total duration from the entry of the blade into the oropharynx to the detection of first end-tidal carbon dioxide capnogram; this duration was recorded along with the number of intubation attempts. Difficult intubation was defined as either > 60 s duration for tracheal intubation, or > 1 intubation attempt. The use of the UEScope demonstrated a 99.4% success rate for intubation; however, increased difficulties were observed in patients who were male, obese, had a short thyromental distance, limited mouth opening, and high upper-lip-bite test class. Despite the high intubation success rate using an intermediate-angled videolaryngoscope, we recommend preparing backup plans, considering the increased difficulty in patients with certain preoperative features. Clinical trial number and registry URL: Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT03215823 (Date of registration: 12 July) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pinus koraiensis is a valuable plant source of functional health foods and medicinal materials. Hypertriglyceridemia affects about 15–20% of adults and is related to stroke, metabolic syndromes, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes mellitus. Dietary fructose, a risk factor for developing hypertriglyceridemia, significantly increases postprandial triglyceride (TG) levels and aggravates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effect of ethanol extract from P. koraiensis needles (EPK) on fructose (Fr)-induced cell culture and animal models, respectively. Our team determined the bioactivity, such as anti-cancer, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemic functions, of P. koraiensis needle extract. The EPK markedly reduced TG levels in the liver and serum and enhanced TG excretion through feces in high-fructose-fed rats. Furthermore, the EPK inhibited de novo lipogenesis and its markers—carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP-1), fatty acid synthase (FAS), 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl-CoA Reductase (HMGCR), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a pro-inflammatory marker. Consistent with the results of the in vivo experiment, the EPK decreased SREBP-1, ChREBP, HMGCR, FAS, TNF-α, and iNOS expression levels, resulting in slower lipid accumulation and lower TG levels in Fr-induced HepG2 cells. These findings suggest that EPK mitigates hypertriglyceridemia and hepatic TG accumulation by inhibiting de novo lipogenic and pro-inflammatory factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last decade witnessed the emergence of a new family of 2D transition metal carbides and nitrides named MXenes, which quickly gained momentum due to their exceptional electrical, mechanical, optical, and tunable functionalities. These outstanding properties also rendered them attractive materials for biomedical and biosensing applications, including drug delivery systems, antimicrobial applications, tissue engineering, sensor probes, auxiliary agents for photothermal therapy and hyperthermia applications, etc. The hydrophilic nature of MXenes with rich surface functional groups is advantageous for biomedical applications over hydrophobic nanoparticles that may require complicated surface modifications. As an emerging 2D material with numerous phases and endless possible combinations with other 2D materials, 1D materials, nanoparticles, macromolecules, polymers, etc., MXenes opened a vast terra incognita for diverse biomedical applications. Recently, MXene research picked up the pace and resulted in a flood of literature reports with significant advancements in the biomedical field. In this context, this review will discuss the recent advancements, design principles, and working mechanisms of some interesting MXene-based biomedical applications. It also includes major progress, as well as key challenges of various types of MXenes and functional MXenes in conjugation with drug molecules, metallic nanoparticles, polymeric substrates, and other macromolecules. Finally, the future possibilities and challenges of this magnificent material are discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although vasodilators are widely used in patients with vasospastic angina (VA), few studies have compared the long-term prognostic effects of different types of vasodilators. We investigated the long-term effects of vasodilators on clinical outcomes in VA patients according to the type of vasodilator used. Study data were obtained from a prospective multicenter registry that included patients who had symptoms suggestive of VA. Patients were classified into two groups according to use of nitrates (n = 239) or other vasodilators (n = 809) at discharge. The composite clinical events rate, including acute coronary syndrome (ACS), cardiac death, new-onset arrhythmia (including ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation), and atrioventricular block, was significantly higher in the nitrates group (5.3% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.026) during one year of follow-up. Specifically, the prevalence of ACS was significantly more frequent in the nitrates group (4.3% vs. 1.5%, p = 0.024). After propensity score matching, the adverse effects of nitrates remained. In addition, the use of nitrates at discharge was independently associated with a 2.69-fold increased risk of ACS in VA patients. In conclusion, using nitrates as a vasodilator at discharge can increase the adverse clinical outcomes in VA patients at one year of follow-up. Clinicians need to be aware of the prognostic value and consider prescribing other vasodilators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to preserve the foldability of foldable display module (FDM) under a various folding environment such as temperature or folding radius, it needs an accurate architecture technique of FDM. Especially, the define of Optical Clear Adhesive(OCA) properties is very serious issue on FDM and it might be impossible to correctly simulate the OCA behaviors with various folding environment. Furthermore, the OCA properties are main key factor to architect the stable FDM because OCA is more sensitively reacted with changing of folding environment than the other film material. In this work, we first analyze the strain‐stress distribution of FDM and then we investigate the proper OCA properties based on the simulation results. As a result, we suggest a foldable display architecture technique depending on various folding environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs are reported as promising biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. miR‐1260b is identified as a tumor‐associated noncoding microRNA in other cancers, although the role of miR‐1260b and its clinical relevance in breast cancer remain unclear. In this study, miR‐1260b as a potential prognostic biomarker was observed by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses in 102 breast tumor tissues. The tumorigenic role of miR‐1260b in terms of proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of breast cancer cells was investigated using gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays in vitro. Additionally, the potential early diagnosis and treatment monitoring marker of miR‐1260b was validated in 129 plasma samples. We found that high miR‐1260b expression was markedly associated with bulky tumor size, advanced stage, and lymph node invasion. Particularly, the high–miR‐1260b‐expression group showed shorter overall survival than the low–miR‐1260b‐expression group. The inhibition of oncogenic miR‐1260b induced apoptosis and decreased migration and invasion of MDA‐MB‐231 cells. CASP8 was revealed as a direct target gene of miR‐1260b, which is closely related to apoptosis. Furthermore, miR‐1260b expression levels in plasma were significantly higher in patients with breast cancer than in healthy controls. The patients who tested positive for miR‐1260b showed 16.3‐ and 18.2‐fold higher risks in the early stage and locally advanced stage, respectively, compared with healthy controls, and the risk was decreased 6.2‐fold after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Taken together, miR‐1260b may be a potential novel diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic target in breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Robotic‐assisted radical prostatectomy(RARP) is widely used to surgically treat of localized prostate cancer. Among RARP, retzius-sparing techniques(RS-RARP) are implemented through douglas pouch, not the existing conventional approach(C-RARP). We conducted an updated systematic review and meta-analysis including recent published papers. Materials & methods: Systematic review was performed following the PRISMA guideline. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched up to August 2021. We conducted meta-analysis as follows; Participants, patients with biopsy-proven PCa; Interventions, Patients underwent C-RARP or RS-RALP; Outcomes, comparison of continence recovery rate, positive surgical margins(PSM), complication, operation time and estimated blood loss(EBL) included for analysis. Results: Thirteen studies with a total of 2917 patients were included for meta-analysis. Among them, three were randomized controlled trials (RCT) studies and the rest were non-RCT studies. Incontinence was analyzed with zero pad and safety pad, respectively. There showed a statistically significant advantage for RS-RARP in terms of continence recovery at 1 month(0 pad; OR 0.28, (0.16–0.47), safety-pad; OR 0.12 (0.07–0.22), p<0.001), as well as at 3 months(0 pad; OR 0.31 (0.18–0.53), safety-pad; OR 0.23 (0.14–0.40) p<0.001), 6 months(0 pad; OR 0.29 (0.17–0.51), safety-pad; OR 0.13 (0.06–0.27), p<0.001). And after 12 months, RS-RARP showed better results only in the safety-pad(0 pad; OR 0.64 (0.35–1.18), p = 0.15, safety-pad; OR 0.12 (0.04–0.36), p<0.001). In PSM, there was no statistical difference between two group at overall stage, but RS-RARP was observed to be higher than C-RARP in pT3 subgroup analysis(OR 0.74 (0.55–0.99), p = 0.047) (Fig 1). Whereas, there was no significant difference between the two groups in complication, operation time, and EBL. Conclusions: Our analysis showed that RS-RARP is superior about early continence recovery than C-RARP. However, RS-RARP showed relatively high PSM in locally advanced PCa of pT3 or above. Therefore, although RS-RARP has few advantages about functional outcomes, we think that caution should be exercised when approaching patients with high-risk local diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mini-screws are widely used as temporary anchorages in orthodontic treatment, but have the disadvantage of showing a high failure rate of about 10%. Therefore, orthodontic mini-screws should have high biocompatibility and retention. Previous studies have demonstrated that the retention of mini-screws can be improved by imparting bioactivity to the surface. The method for imparting bioactivity proposed in this paper is to sequentially perform anodization, periodic pre-calcification, and heat treatments with a Ti–6Al–4V ELI alloy mini-screw. Materials and methods: A TiO2 nanotube-structured layer was formed on the surface of the Ti–6Al–4V ELI alloy mini-screw through anodization in which a voltage of 20 V was applied to a glycerol solution containing 20 wt% H2O and 1.4 wt% NH4F for 60 min. Fine granular calcium phosphate precipitates of HA and octacalcium phosphate were generated as clusters on the surface through the cyclic pre-calcification and heat treatments. The cyclic pre-calcification treatment is a process of immersion in a 0.05 M NaH2PO4 solution and a saturated Ca(OH)2 solution at 90 °C for 1 min each. Results: It was confirmed that the densely structured protrusions were precipitated, and Ca and P concentrations, which bind and concentrate endogenous bone morphogenetic proteins, increased on the surface after simulated body fluid (SBF) immersion test. In addition, the removal torque of the mini-screw fixed into rabbit tibias for 4 weeks was measured to be 8.70 ± 2.60 N cm. Conclusions: A noteworthy point in this paper is that the Ca and P concentrations, which provide a scaffold suitable for endogenous bone formation, further increased over time after SBF immersion of the APH group specimens. The other point is that our mini-screws have a significantly higher removal torque compared to untreated mini-screws. These results represent that the mini-screw proposed in this paper can be used as a mini-screw for orthodontics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensitive and selective determination of protein biomarkers with high accuracy often remains a great challenge due to their existence in the human body at an exceptionally low concentration level. Therefore, sensing mechanisms that are easy to use, simple, and capable of accurate quantification of analyte are still in development to detect biomarkers at a low concentration level. To meet this end, we demonstrated a methodology to detect thrombin in serum at low concentration levels using polypyrrole (PPy)-palladium (Pd)nanoparticle-based hybrid transducers using liposomes encapsulated redox marker as a label. The morphology of Ppy-Pd composites was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, and the hybrid structure provided excellent binding and detection platform for thrombin detection in both buffer and serum solutions. For quantitative measurement of thrombin in PBS and serum, the change in current was monitored using differential pulse voltammetry, and the calculated limit of quantification (LOQ) and limit of detection (LOD) for the linear segment (0.1–1000 nM of thrombin) were 1.1 pM and 0.3 pM, in serum, respectively. The sensors also exhibited good stability and excellent selectivity towards the detection of thrombin, and thus make it a strong candidate for adopting its sensing applications in biomarker detection technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal stones have been developed to overcome the invasive disadvantages of PCNL. We aimed to compare the therapeutic effect and safety of ultra-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (UMPCNL) and RIRS for renal stones using an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched clinical trials comparing UMPCNL and RIRS for renal stones using the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases up to October 2021. Seven studies were included in the current study. The renal stone size was 10–20 mm in three studies, 10–25 mm in one study, 10–35 mm in two studies, and not specified in one study. The stone-free rate of UMPCNL was higher than that of RIRS (p = 0.02; odds ratio (OR) = 2.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.12, 3.61). The complication rate showed no significant difference between UMPCNL and RIRS (p = 0.48; OR = 1.20; 95% CI = 0.73, 1.98). Regarding the operative time, UMPCNL was shorter than RIRS (p = 0.005; weighted mean difference (WMD) = −15.63; 95% CI = −26.60, −4.67). The hospital stay of UMPCNL was longer than that of RIRS (p = 0.0004; WMD = 1.48; 95% CI = 0.66, 2.31). UMPCNL showed higher efficacy than RIRS and similar safety to RIRS. UMPCNL may be a useful therapeutic option for moderate-sized renal stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress cardiomyopathy (SCMP) is an acute but reversible heart failure syndrome with varying clinical outcomes. Although low triiodothyronine (T3) levels are closely associated with heart failure, it is uncertain whether total T3 levels on admission might be correlated with clinical outcomes in patients with SCMP. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of total T3 level for in-hospital mortality in patients with SCMP. Patients presenting with SCMP at a single tertiary hospital between January 2013 and May 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The diagnosis of SCMP was confirmed using the International Takotsubo Diagnostic Criteria and echocardiography was performed at least twice at the time of admission. Comorbidities, antecedent triggers, and other cardiac and metabolic parameters were measured in the survivor group compared with the non-survivor group. We evaluated the correlation between these parameters, especially total T3 and the prevalence of in-hospital mortality and the predictive values of total T3. Of the 134 SCMP patients (69.4 ± 15.5 years old, 94 women), 29 (21.6%) died during hospitalisation. The median follow-up period (interquartile range) was 480 days (63.25–1052.50). Total T3 levels were significantly lower in the non-survival group than in the survival group (33.38 ± 22.58 ng/dL vs. 65.72 ± 34.68 ng/dL, p < 0.0001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed the cut-offs of total T3 levels (≤64.37 ng/dL) for in-hospital mortality (area under curve [AUC] = 0.764, p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, the T3 level (odds ratio [OR], 0.957; 95% confidential interval [CI], 0.934 to 0.982; p < 0.001), left ventricular ejection in follow-up echocardiography (OR, 0.935; 95% CI, 0.889–0.983; p = 0.008), and shock at initial presentation (OR, 3.389; 95% CI, 1.076–10.669; p = 0.037) were independent predictors for in-hospital mortality in SCMP patients. In patients with low T3 (<64.37 ng/dL), the 30-day survival rate was also significantly lower (81.58 vs. 100%, Log rank p = 0.001). Lower levels of total T3 were strongly correlated with in-hospital mortality in patients with SCMP. A low T3 level might suggest poor prognosis in patients with SCMP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cnidium officinalis rhizomes were immersed in 80% MeOH. The extract was fractionated to water, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate fractions (Fr). Open column chromatography was repeatedly carried out on n-butanol and ethyl acetate Fr using silica gel, octadecyl silica gel, and Sephadex LH-20 as the stationary phase affording five phenyl alkanoids 1–5 including two new ones. The molecular structures including stereochemistry were decided based on spectroscopic interpretation of nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry, and infrared spectroscopy as well as chemical reaction. Three known compounds, coniferyl alcohol methyl ether (1), vanillin (2), and coniferyl aldehyde (3), were reported in the beginning for this plant by authors. Two new phenyl alkanoids were named, 7-methoxyeugenol and cnidiumoside. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]