bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss-of-Function of xpc Sensitizes Zebrafish to Ultraviolet Irradiation
Authors: Liu Kai , Sun Zhaoxiang , Yang Chun , Lo Li Jan , Chen Jun
Published: April 2023

Xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC) protein recognizes bulky DNA adducts to initiate global genomic nucleotide excision repair (GG-NER). Humans carrying germline mutations in the XPC gene display strong susceptibility to skin and certain internal cancers. In addition to its role in NER, recent studies have indicated that XPC is also involved in other DNA damage repair pathways and transcription regulation. In this report, we generated a zebrafish xpc knockout mutant. Zebrafish xpc−/− mutant fish develop relative normally and are fertile. However, the mutant embryos were more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Upon UV irradiation, compared with the wild type embryos, mutant embryos accumulated significantly higher levels of unrepaired DNA damages and apoptotic cells, which led to more severe abnormal development. Transcriptome analysis showed that the p53 signal pathway and apoptosis were enriched in the over upregulated genes in UV-irradiated mutant embryos, suggesting that high levels of unrepaired DNA lesions activated p53 to trigger apoptotic activity in mutant embryos. More interestingly, up to 972 genes in the untreated mutant embryos were differentially expressed, compared with those in the untreated WT. Among these differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 379 genes did not respond to UV irradiation, indicating that Xpc plays a role in addition of DNA damage repair. Our results demonstrate that Xpc is an evolutionally conserved factor in NER repair. Zebrafish xpc−/− mutant also provides a platform to study other functions of Xpc beyond the DNA damage repair.
Characteristics of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) Milk: Lactational Changes in Composition and Processing Impacts on Structural and Gelation Properties
Authors: Li Siqi , Saharawat Ashish , Ye Aiqian , Dave Anant , Singh Harjinder
Published: April 2023

In an increasingly diversified global market, milk of minor dairy species has gained interest as a novel and premium source of nutrition. Relative to the major dairy species, much is lacking in our understanding of red deer (Cervus elaphus) milk. In this study, we characterized the compositions (macronutrients, minerals, fatty acids, and proteins) of red deer milk and their variations throughout lactation. We also investigated the structures, physical properties, and gelation (acid- and rennet-induced) properties of deer milk and how they are impacted by typical processing treatments (e.g., homogenization and pasteurization). We identified unique features in the composition of deer milk, including being richer in protein, fat, calcium, zinc, iodine, branched-chain fatty acids, and α-linolenic acid than other ruminant milks. Different deer milk components displayed diverse variation patterns over the lactation cycle, many of which were different from those demonstrated in other ruminant species. Other physicochemical features of deer milk were identified, such as its markedly larger fat globules. Processing treatments were demonstrated to alter the structural and gelation properties of deer milk. Most of the gelation properties of deer milk resembled that of bovine milk more than ovine and caprine milks. This study furthers our understanding of red deer milk and will aid in its processing and applications in novel products.
Hybrid Spreadable Cheese Analogues with Faba Bean and Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) Flours: Optimisation Using Desirability-Based Mixture Design
Authors: Garcia-Fontanals Laura , Llorente Raquel , Valderrama Juanjo , Bravo Sergio , Talens Clara
Published: April 2023

Hybrid products could help bridge the gap as new alternative diets emerge in response to the demand for less animal protein, while recent studies suggest that the Western population is not yet ready to fully embrace an alternative protein-based diet. This study used a desirability-based mixture design to model hybrid spreadable cheese analogues (SCAs). The design combined milk protein concentrate (MPC), Tenebrio molitor (IF) and faba bean (FBP) flours, representing 7.1% of the formula. Nine SCAs with different MPC/FBP/IF ratios were formulated. Incorporating the IF negatively impacted the desirable texture properties. The FBP flour improved the texture (increasing firmness and stickiness and decreasing spreadability), but only when combined with MPC. Sensory analysis showed that hybrid SCAs (≤50% MPC) C2, C7 and C9 had a more characteristic cheesy flavour than the commercial plant-based reference, and sample C2 had a texture profile similar to the dairy reference. Samples containing IF (C7 and C9) showed a better flavour profile than that without IF (C2). The SCAs had higher protein and lower saturated fat, starch and sugar content than commercial analogues. The study suggests that incorporating alternative proteins in hybrid products can be an effective approach to reduce animal protein content, specifically dairy, in food formulations.
Formation and Characterization of Self-Assembled Rice Protein Hydrolysate Nanoparticles as Soy Isoflavone Delivery Systems
Authors: Mo Haoran , Chen Xiuwen , Cui Bo , Chen Yangling , Chen Maolong , Xu Zhou , Wen Li , Cheng Yunhui , Jiao Ye
Published: April 2023

In this study, soy isoflavones-loaded nanoparticles were prepared using rice proteins (RPs) hydrolyzed by four types of enzyme (alcalase, neutrase, trypsin, and flavorzyme). After optimizing the preparation conditions, the encapsulation efficiency (EE) of the nanoparticles ranged from 61.16% ± 0.92% to 90.65% ± 0.19%. The RPs that were hydrolyzed by flavorzyme with a molecular weight of <5 KDa showed better characters on the formation of nanoparticles, and the formed nanoparticles had the highest EE and loading capacity (9.06%), the smallest particle size (64.77 nm), the lowest polymer dispersity index (0.19), and the lowest zeta potential (−25.64 mV).The results of Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance, X-ray diffraction, and fluorescence spectroscopy showed that the nanoparticles were successfully encapsulated. The study of interaction showed that the formation of nanoparticles may depend mainly on hydrogen bonds, but other interactions, such as hydrophobic interactions and electrostatic interactions, cannot be ignored. After encapsulation, the pH stability, temperature stability, ionic stability, and oxidation resistance of the nanoparticles were enhanced. Moreover, the in vitro release experiment showed that the encapsulated nanoparticles had a certain protective effect on soybean isoflavones. In summary, rice protein hydrolysates are promising carriers for soybean isoflavones.
Non-Invasive Methods for the Prediction of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Patients with Cirrhosis
Authors: Cao Ngoc Huynh , Ho Phat Tan , Bui Hoang Huu , Vo Thong Duy
Published: April 2023

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a potentially fatal complication in patients with liver cirrhosis. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of SBP are vital to shorten hospital stays and reduce mortality. According to society guidelines, patients with cirrhosis and ascites who are admitted to the hospital should have diagnostic paracentesis. However, for various reasons, paracentesis may be delayed or not performed. Therefore, recent research has focused on identifying non-invasive parameters useful in SBP prediction which require urgent antibiotic therapy if rapid and secure paracentesis is not possible or there is insufficient experience with this method. In this review, we discuss the non-invasive methods available to predict SBP.
Effect of Extraction Time on the Extractability and Physicochemical Properties of Pepsin—Soluble Collagen (PCS) from the Skin of Silver Catfish (Pangasius sp.)
Authors: Shaik Mannur Ismail , Md Nor Intan Nordiana , Sarbon Norizah Mhd
Published: April 2023

The current study aimed to determine the effects of extraction time on the extractability and physicochemical properties of collagen from the skin of silver catfish (Pangasius sp.). Pepsin soluble collagen (PSC) was extracted for 24 and 48 h and analysed in terms of chemical composition, solubility, functional group, microstructure, and rheological properties. The yields of PSC at 24 h and 48 h extraction time were 23.64% and 26.43%, respectively. The chemical composition exhibited significant differences, with PSC extracted at 24 h showing better moisture, protein, fat, and ash content. Both collagen extractions indicated the highest solubility at pH 5. In addition, both collagen extractions exhibited Amide A, I, II, and III as fingerprint regions for collagen structure. The morphology of the extracted collagen appeared porous with a fibril structure. The dynamic viscoelastic measurements of complex viscosity (η*) and loss tangent (tan δ) decreased as temperature increased, and the viscosity increased exponentially as the frequency increased, whereas the loss tangent decreased. In conclusion, PSC extracted at 24 h showed similar extractability to that extracted at 48 h but with a better chemical composition and shorter extraction time. Therefore, 24 h is the best extraction time for PSC from silver catfish skin.
The Use of Hydrogel-Based Materials for Radioprotection
Authors: Li Yang , Liu Han , Ding Yaqun , Li Wanyu , Zhang Yuansong , Luo Shenglin , Xiang Qiang
Published: April 2023

Major causes of the radiation-induced disease include nuclear accidents, war-related nuclear explosions, and clinical radiotherapy. While certain radioprotective drug or bioactive compounds have been utilized to protect against radiation-induced damage in preclinical and clinical settings, these strategies are hampered by poor efficacy and limited utilization. Hydrogel-based materials are effective carriers capable of enhancing the bioavailability of compounds loaded therein. As they exhibit tunable performance and excellent biocompatibility, hydrogels represent promising tools for the design of novel radioprotective therapeutic strategies. This review provides an overview of common approaches to radioprotective hydrogel preparation, followed by a discussion of the pathogenesis of radiation-induced disease and the current states of research focused on using hydrogels to protect against these diseases. These findings ultimately provide a foundation for discussions of the challenges and future prospects associated with the use of radioprotective hydrogels.
The Prevalence of Cardiovascular Diseases in Paralympic Athletes
Authors: Sawczuk Diana , Gać Paweł , Poręba Rafał , Poręba Małgorzata
Published: April 2023

Paralympic participants represent a special subset of athletes. Although sudden cardiac death in this group is a rare event, it should be underlined that, in particular, Paralympians with movement restrictions have a higher prevalence of coronary heart disease. Numerous reports have focused on comparing athletes with spinal cord injury (SCI) and the ones with non-spinal cord injury—NSCI. The first group is more prone to develop arrhythmias, arterial hypertension, hyperlipidaemia including atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, and this group potentially may have a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality. In ECGs of the disabled athletes with SCI, we more often find changes typically established as consequences of exercise training, such as T-wave inversions. The potential differences in the cardiovascular status of disabled athletes may depend not only on the class of impairment, but also on the discipline of sport and environmental conditions, which makes the analysis relatively complex. The paper analyses up-to-date articles discussing the cardiovascular problems in disabled athletes, pointing to scarce data in several fields of interest. Previous studies on the frequency of abnormalities of the cardiovascular system in Paralympic athletes highlighted the need to intensify preventive cardiology care for this group of athletes, and some activities could be proposed for sportsmen and sportswomen in this group, including more frequent screening ECG, application of 24 h ECG Holter monitoring, echocardiography and cardiological care. Due to the relatively few data available and existing discrepancies in this area, further research is necessary.
Disease Prediction Using Graph Machine Learning Based on Electronic Health Data: A Review of Approaches and Trends
Authors: Lu Haohui , Uddin Shahadat
Published: April 2023

Graph machine-learning (ML) methods have recently attracted great attention and have made significant progress in graph applications. To date, most graph ML approaches have been evaluated on social networks, but they have not been comprehensively reviewed in the health informatics domain. Herein, a review of graph ML methods and their applications in the disease prediction domain based on electronic health data is presented in this study from two levels: node classification and link prediction. Commonly used graph ML approaches for these two levels are shallow embedding and graph neural networks (GNN). This study performs comprehensive research to identify articles that applied or proposed graph ML models on disease prediction using electronic health data. We considered journals and conferences from four digital library databases (i.e., PubMed, Scopus, ACM digital library, and IEEEXplore). Based on the identified articles, we review the present status of and trends in graph ML approaches for disease prediction using electronic health data. Even though GNN-based models have achieved outstanding results compared with the traditional ML methods in a wide range of disease prediction tasks, they still confront interpretability and dynamic graph challenges. Though the disease prediction field using ML techniques is still emerging, GNN-based models have the potential to be an excellent approach for disease prediction, which can be used in medical diagnosis, treatment, and the prognosis of diseases.
Soil–Water–Atmosphere Effects on Soil Crack Characteristics under Field Conditions in a Semiarid Climate
Authors: Ribeiro Filho Jacques Carvalho , Andrade Eunice Maia de , Guerreiro Maria Simas , Palácio Helba Araújo de Queiroz , Brasil José Bandeira
Published: April 2023

Soil’s physical and hydrological properties influence the proper modeling, planning, and management of water resources and soil conservation. In areas of vertic soils subjected to wetting and drying cycles, the soil–water–atmosphere interaction is complex and understudied at the field scale, especially in dry tropical regions. This work quantifies and analyzes crack development under field conditions in an expansive soil in a semiarid region for both the dry and rainy seasons. Six 1 m2 plots in an experimental 2.8 ha watershed were photographed and direct measurements were taken of the soil moisture and crack area, depth and volume once a week and after a rainfall event from July 2019 to June 2020. The rainfall was monitored for the entire period and showed a unimodal distribution from December to May after five months without precipitation. The cracks were first sealed in the plots with a predominance of sand and when the soil moisture was above 23% and had an accumulated precipitation of 102 mm. The other plots sealed their cracks when the soil moisture was above 32% and with an accumulated precipitation in the rainy season above 222 mm. The cracks redeveloped after sealing upon a reduction of 4% in the soil moisture. The depth of the cracks showed a better response to climatic variations (total precipitation, soil moisture and continuous dry and wet days). The higher clay content and the higher plasticity index plots developed more cracks with greater depth and volume.
Salivary Biomarkers Analysis and Neurobehavioral Assessment in Nurses Working Rotation Shifts: A Pilot Study
Authors: Vivarelli Silvia , Italia Sebastiano , Teodoro Michele , Pollicino Manuela , Vitello Carmen , De Vita Annalisa , Alibrandi Angela , Costa Chiara , Fenga Concettina
Published: April 2023

Currently, about one in five workers is employed in night shift work in Europe. Shift work including nighttime hours is essential in several activities, especially the healthcare sector. Importantly, night working may be associated with the occurrence of sleep disorders or work-related stress, both potentially augmenting the risk of errors and accidents at work. This study aims to examine the presence of neurobehavioral alterations that can be a consequence of shift working and concurrent misalignment of the sleep times and circadian rhythms. Nurses (n = 102) employed at a University Hospital located in North-Eastern Sicily, Italy, voluntarily participated in this pilot study. During medical surveillance, morning and evening salivary samples were collected, and seven psychodiagnostics questionnaires were administered to all the subjects. On one hand, the salivary levels of stress-related biomarkers (cortisol and alpha-amylase) and a circadian biomarker (melatonin) were evaluated. On the other hand, several neurobehavioral features were assessed, including depression, anxiety, work-related, and sleep issues. Interestingly, a positive relationship between salivary morning cortisol and depression scale, as well as a negative relationship between salivary morning alpha-amylase and work ability scale, were observed. Based on these results, the integration of subjective questionnaire outcomes and objective salivary biomarker quantification can help to identify workers with increased susceptibility to developing neurobehavioral alterations. This approach may contribute to ameliorating preventive strategies towards sensitive categories, such as nurses working rotation shifts.
Evaluating Drivers of the Patient Experience Triangle: Stress, Anxiety, and Frustration
Authors: Almaazmi Sumaya , Simsekler Mecit Can Emre , Henschel Andreas , Qazi Abroon , Marbouh Dounia , Luqman Rana Adel Mahmoud Ali
Published: April 2023

Patient experience is a widely used indicator for assessing the quality-of-care process during a patient’s journey in hospital. However, the literature rarely discusses three components: patient stress, anxiety, and frustration. Furthermore, little is known about what drives each component during hospital visits. In order to explore this, we utilized data from a patient experience survey, including patient- and provider-related determinants, that was administered at a local hospital in Abu Dhabi, UAE. A machine-learning-based random forest (RF) algorithm, along with its embedded importance analysis function feature, was used to explore and rank the drivers of patient stress, anxiety, and frustration throughout two stages of the patient journey: registration and consultation. The attribute ‘age’ was identified as the primary patient-related determinant driving patient stress, anxiety, and frustration throughout the registration and consultation stages. In the registration stage, ‘total time taken for registration’ was the key driver of patient stress, whereas ‘courtesy demonstrated by the registration staff in meeting your needs’ was the key driver of anxiety and frustration. In the consultation step, ‘waiting time to see the doctor/physician’ was the key driver of both patient stress and frustration, whereas ‘the doctor/physician was able to explain your symptoms using language that was easy to understand’ was the main driver of anxiety. The RF algorithm provided valuable insights, showing the relative importance of factors affecting patient stress, anxiety, and frustration throughout the registration and consultation stages. Healthcare managers can utilize and allocate resources to improve the overall patient experience during hospital visits based on the importance of patient- and provider-related determinants.
Elderly Patients Managed Non-Operatively with Abscesses of the Anorectal Region Have Five Times Higher Rate of Mortality Compared to Non-Elderly
Authors: Ladinsky Alexander , Smiley Abbas , Latifi Rifat
Published: April 2023

This study’s purpose was to investigate risk factors for mortality from anorectal abscesses through a more comprehensive examination. This was a retrospective study that evaluated National Inpatient Sample patient data of adult and elderly patients emergently admitted with a primary diagnosis of anorectal abscess. Data was stratified by variables of interest and examined through statistical analysis, including backward logistic regression modelling. Roughly 40,000 adult patients and nearly 7000 elderly patients were admitted emergently with a primary diagnosis of abscess in anorectal regions. The mean age of adult male patients was 43 years while elderly male patients were, on average, 73 years old. Both adult males (69.0%) and elderly males (63.9%) were more frequently seen in the hospital for anorectal abscess compared to females. Mortality rates were lower in adult patients as only 0.2% (n = 62) of adult patients and 1.0% (n = 73) of elderly patients died in the hospital. Age increased the odds of mortality (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.02–1.04, p < 0.001) as did hospital length of stay (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01–1.03, p < 0.001). Surgical procedure decreased the odds of mortality by more than 50% (OR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.33–0.71, p < 0.001). Risk factors for mortality from anorectal abscess included age and non-operative management, which leads to prolonged hospital length of stay. Surgical management of anorectal abscesses offered protective benefits.
Endothelial Cell Behavior and Nitric Oxide Production on a-C:H:SiOx-Coated Ti-6Al-4V Substrate
Authors: Khlusov Igor A. , Grenadyorov Alexander S. , Solovyev Andrey A. , Semenov Vyacheslav A. , Zhulkov Maksim O. , Sirota Dmitry A. , Chernyavskiy Aleksander M. , Poveshchenko Olga V. , Surovtseva Maria A. , Kim Irina I. , Bondarenko Natalya A. , Semin Viktor O.
Published: April 2023

This paper focuses on the surface modification of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy substrate via a-C:H:SiOx coating deposition. Research results concern the a-C:H:SiOx coating structure, investigated using transmission electron microscopy and in vitro endothelization to study the coating. Based on the analysis of the atomic radial distribution function, a model is proposed for the atomic short-range order structure of the a-C:H:SiOx coating, and chemical bonds (C–O, C–C, Si–C, Si–O, and Si–Si) are identified. It is shown that the a-C:H:SiOx coating does not possess prolonged cytotoxicity in relation to EA.hy926 endothelial cells. In vitro investigations showed that the adhesion, cell number, and nitric oxide production by EA.hy926 endothelial cells on the a-C:H:SiOx-coated Ti-6Al-4V substrate are significantly lower than those on the uncoated surface. The findings suggest that the a-C:H:SiOx coating can reduce the risk of endothelial cell hyperproliferation on implants and medical devices, including mechanical prosthetic heart valves, endovascular stents, and mechanical circulatory support devices.
Automated Patch-Clamp and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes: A Synergistic Approach in the Study of Brugada Syndrome
Authors: Melgari Dario , Calamaio Serena , Frosio Anthony , Prevostini Rachele , Anastasia Luigi , Pappone Carlo , Rivolta Ilaria
Published: April 2023

The development of high-throughput automated patch-clamp technology is a recent breakthrough in the field of Brugada syndrome research. Brugada syndrome is a heart disorder marked by abnormal electrocardiographic readings and an elevated risk of sudden cardiac death due to arrhythmias. Various experimental models, developed either in animals, cell lines, human tissue or computational simulation, play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of this condition, and developing effective treatments. In the perspective of the pathophysiological role of ion channels and their pharmacology, automated patch-clamp involves a robotic system that enables the simultaneous recording of electrical activity from multiple single cells at once, greatly improving the speed and efficiency of data collection. By combining this approach with the use of patient-derived cardiomyocytes, researchers are gaining a more comprehensive view of the underlying mechanisms of heart disease. This has led to the development of more effective treatments for those affected by cardiovascular conditions.
A Selective ALDH1A3 Inhibitor Impairs Mesothelioma 3-D Multicellular Spheroid Growth and Neutrophil Recruitment
Authors: Boumya Sara , Fallarini Silvia , Siragusa Sonia , Petrarolo Giovanni , Aprile Silvio , Audrito Valentina , La Motta Concettina , Garavaglia Silvia , Moro Laura , Pinton Giulia
Published: April 2023

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A3 (ALDH1A3), one of the three members of the aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A subfamily, has been associated with increased progression and drug resistance in various types of solid tumours. Recently, it has been reported that high ALDH1A3 expression is prognostic of poor survival in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), an asbestos-associated chemoresistant cancer. We treated MPM cells, cultured as multicellular spheroids, with NR6, a potent and highly selective ALDH1A3 inhibitor. Here we report that NR6 treatment caused the accumulation of toxic aldehydes, induced DNA damage, CDKN2A expression and cell growth arrest. We observed that, in CDKN2A proficient cells, NR6 treatment induced IL6 expression, but abolished CXCL8 expression and IL-8 release, preventing both neutrophil recruitment and generation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Furthermore, we demonstrate that in response to ALDH1A3 inhibition, CDKN2A loss skewed cell fate from senescence to apoptosis. Dissecting the role of ALDH1A3 isoform in MPM cells and tumour microenvironment can open new fronts in the treatment of this cancer.
Mechanical Properties of Graphene Networks under Compression: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Polyakova Polina V. , Baimova Julia A.
Published: April 2023

Molecular dynamics simulation is used to study and compare the mechanical properties obtained from compression and tension numerical tests of multilayered graphene with an increased interlayer distance. The multilayer graphene with an interlayer distance two-times larger than in graphite is studied first under biaxial compression and then under uniaxial tension along three different axes. The mechanical properties, e.g., the tensile strength and ductility as well as the deformation characteristics due to graphene layer stacking, are studied. The results show that the mechanical properties along different directions are significantly distinguished. Two competitive mechanisms are found both for the compression and tension of multilayer graphene—the crumpling of graphene layers increases the stresses, while the sliding of graphene layers through the surface-to-surface connection lowers it. Multilayer graphene after biaxial compression can sustain high tensile stresses combined with high plasticity. The main outcome of the study of such complex architecture is an important step towards the design of advanced carbon nanomaterials with improved mechanical properties.
Bridging Gaps in HDR Improvement: The Role of MAD2L2, SCAI, and SCR7
Authors: Anuchina Arina A. , Zaynitdinova Milyausha I. , Demchenko Anna G. , Evtushenko Nadezhda A. , Lavrov Alexander V. , Smirnikhina Svetlana A.
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to enhance homology-directed repair (HDR) efficiency in CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing by targeting three key factors regulating the balance between HDR and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ): MAD2L2, SCAI, and Ligase IV. In order to achieve this, a cellular model using mutated eGFP was designed to monitor HDR events. Results showed that MAD2L2 knockdown and SCR7 treatment significantly improved HDR efficiency during Cas9-mediated HDR repair of the mutated eGFP gene in the HEK293T cell line. Fusion protein Cas9-SCAI did not improve HDR. This study is the first to demonstrate that MAD2L2 knockdown during CRISPR-mediated gene editing in HEK293T cells can increase precise correction by up to 10.2 times. The study also confirmed a moderate but consistent effect of SCR7, an inhibitor of Ligase IV, which increased HDR by 1.7 times. These findings provide valuable insights into improving HDR-based genome editing efficiency.
Ethacrynic Acid: A Promising Candidate for Drug Repurposing as an Anticancer Agent
Authors: Yu Lu , Lee Ho , Rho Seung Bae , Park Mi Kyung , Lee Chang Hoon
Published: April 2023

Ethacrynic acid (ECA) is a diuretic that inhibits Na-K-2Cl cotransporter (NKCC2) present in the thick ascending loop of Henle and muculo dens and is clinically used for the treatment of edema caused by excessive body fluid. However, its clinical use is limited due to its low bioavailability and side effects, such as liver damage and hearing loss at high doses. Despite this, ECA has recently emerged as a potential anticancer agent through the approach of drug repositioning, with a novel mechanism of action. ECA has been shown to regulate cancer hallmark processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion, angiogenesis, inflammation, energy metabolism, and the increase of inhibitory growth factors through various mechanisms. Additionally, ECA has been used as a scaffold for synthesizing a new material, and various derivatives have been synthesized. This review explores the potential of ECA and its derivatives as anticancer agents, both alone and in combination with adjuvants, by examining their effects on ten hallmarks of cancer and neuronal contribution to cancer. Furthermore, we investigated the trend of synthesis research of a series of ECA derivatives to improve the bioavailability of ECA. This review highlights the importance of ECA research and its potential to provide a cost-effective alternative to new drug discovery and development for cancer treatment.
Anti-Inflammatory, Barrier Maintenance, and Gut Microbiome Modulation Effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae QHNLD8L1 on DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice
Authors: Hu Qianjue , Yu Leilei , Zhai Qixiao , Zhao Jianxin , Tian Fengwei
Published: April 2023

The use of probiotics has been considered as a new therapy option for ulcerative colitis (UC), and yeast has recently received widespread recommendation for human health. In this study, the probiotic characteristics of four yeast strains, Saccharomyces boulardii CNCMI-745, Kluyveromyces marxianus QHBYC4L2, Saccharomyces cerevisiae QHNLD8L1, and Debaryomyces hansenii QSCLS6L3, were evaluated in vitro; their ability to ameliorate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis was investigated. Among these, S. cerevisiae QHNLD8L1 protected against colitis, which was reflected by increased body weight, colon length, histological injury relief, decreased gut inflammation markers, and intestinal barrier restoration. The abundance of the pathogenic bacteria Escherichia–Shigella and Enterococcaceae in mice with colitis decreased after S. cerevisiae QHNLD8L1 treatment. Moreover, S. cerevisiae QHNLD8L1 enriched beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus, Faecalibaculum, and Butyricimonas, enhanced carbon metabolism and fatty acid biosynthesis function, and increased short chain fatty acid (SCFAs) production. Taken together, our results indicate the great potential of S. cerevisiae QHNLD8L1 supplementation for the prevention and alleviation of UC.
The Solvation Effect of C=O Group of Cyclic Anhydrides in Solution
Authors: Rakipov Ilnaz , Akhmadiyarov Aydar , Petrov Artem , Khachatrian Artashes , Solomonov Boris
Published: April 2023

The paper reports the results of investigation intermolecular interactions between alanine and sarcosine anhydride in organic solvents. The absorption frequencies of cyclic dipeptide in solvents were measured by IR spectroscopy. The effect of Van der Waals interactions and the hydrogen bonding of solvents on absorption frequencies of the C=O group of anhydrides was discussed. The spectroscopic parameters for C=O∙∙∙H-O hydrogen bonding complexes of anhydride with methanol in aprotic and proton donor solvent are obtained. In multi-particle complexes of dipeptides with aliphatic alcohols, the hydrogen bond enhancement was between 10 and 16%, which is significantly lower than it is for amide complexes.
Pedestrian Detection and Tracking System Based on Deep-SORT, YOLOv5, and New Data Association Metrics
Authors: Razzok Mohammed , Badri Abdelmajid , El Mourabit Ilham , Ruichek Yassine , Sahel Aïcha
Published: April 2023

Pedestrian tracking and detection have become critical aspects of advanced driver assistance systems (ADASs), due to their academic and commercial potential. Their objective is to locate various pedestrians in videos and assign them unique identities. The data association task is problematic, particularly when dealing with inter-pedestrian occlusion. This occurs when multiple pedestrians cross paths or move too close together, making it difficult for the system to identify and track individual pedestrians. Inaccurate tracking can lead to false alarms, missed detections, and incorrect decisions. To overcome this challenge, our paper focuses on improving data association in our pedestrian detection system’s Deep-SORT tracking algorithm, which is solved as a linear optimization problem using a newly generated cost matrix. We introduce a set of new data association cost matrices that rely on metrics such as intersections, distances, and bounding boxes. To evaluate trackers in real time, we use YOLOv5 to identify pedestrians in images. We also perform experimental evaluations on the Multiple Object Tracking 17 (MOT17) challenge dataset. The proposed cost matrices demonstrate promising results, showing an improvement in most MOT performance metrics compared to the default intersection over union (IOU) data association cost matrix.
TrainAR: An Open-Source Visual Scripting-Based Authoring Tool for Procedural Mobile Augmented Reality Trainings
Authors: Blattgerste Jonas , Behrends Jan , Pfeiffer Thies
Published: April 2023

Mobile Augmented Reality (AR) is a promising technology for educational purposes. It allows for interactive, engaging, and spatially independent learning. While the didactic benefits of AR have been well studied in recent years and commodity smartphones already come with AR capabilities, concepts and tools for a scalable deployment of AR are still missing. The proposed solution TrainAR combines an interaction concept, a didactic framework and an authoring tool for procedural AR training applications for smartphones. The contribution of this paper is the open-source visual scripting-based authoring tool of TrainAR in the form of a Unity Editor extension. With this approach, TrainAR allows non-programmer domain experts to create (“author”) their own procedural AR trainings by offering a customized editor, while at any time programmers may decide to utilize Unity’s full capabilities. Furthermore, utility and usability evaluations of several already developed TrainAR trainings (combined n = 317) show that TrainAR trainings provide utility in several contexts and are usable by the target groups. A systematic usability evaluation of the TrainAR Authoring Tool (n = 30) shows that it would be usable by non-programmer domain experts, though the learning curve depends on the media competency of the authors.
In Situ Synthesis of Ti:Fe2O3/Cu2O p-n Junction for Highly Efficient Photogenerated Carriers Separation
Authors: Shi Tie , Feng Yanmei , Zhong Yi , Ding Hao , Chen Kai , Chen Daimei
Published: April 2023

High photoelectrochemical water oxidation efficiency can be achieved through an efficient photogenerated holes transfer pathway. Constructing a photoanode semiconductor heterojunction with close interface contact is an effective tactic to improve the efficiency of photogenerated carrier separation. Here, we reported a novel photoanode p-n junction of Ti:Fe2O3/Cu2O (n-Ti:Fe2O3 and p-Cu2O), Cu2O being obtained by in situ reduction in CuAl-LDH (layered double hydroxides). The Ti:Fe2O3/Cu2O photoanode exhibits a high photocurrent density reaching 1.35 mA/cm2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE is about 1.67 and 50 times higher than the Ti:Fe2O3 and α-Fe2O3 photoanode, respectively. The enhanced PEC activity for the n-Ti:Fe2O3/p-Cu2O photoelectrode is due to the remarkable surface charge separation efficiency (ηsurface 85%) and bulk charge separation efficiency (ηbulk 72%) formed by the p-n junction and the tight interface contact formed by in situ reduction. Moreover, as a cocatalyst, CuAl-LDH can protect the Ti:Fe2O3/Cu2O photoanode and improve its stability to a certain extent. This study provides insight into the manufacturing potential of in situ reduction layered double hydroxides semiconductor for designing highly active photoanodes in the field of photoelectrochemical water oxidation.
Wolbachia Effect on Drosophila melanogaster Lipid and Carbohydrate Metabolism
Authors: Karpova Evgenia K. , Bobrovskikh Margarita A. , Deryuzhenko Maksim A. , Shishkina Olga D. , Gruntenko Nataly E.
Published: April 2023

The effect of maternally inherited endosymbiotic bacteria Wolbachia on triglyceride and carbohydrate metabolism, starvation resistance and feeding behavior of Drosophila melanogaster females was studied. Eight D. melanogaster lines of the same nuclear background were investigated; one had no infection and served as the control, and seven others were infected with different Wolbachia strains pertaining to wMel and wMelCS groups of genotypes. Most of the infected lines had a higher overall lipid content and triglyceride level than the control line and their expression of the bmm gene regulating triglyceride catabolism was reduced. The glucose content was higher in the infected lines compared to that in the control, while their trehalose levels were similar. It was also found that the Wolbachia infection reduced the level of tps1 gene expression (coding for enzyme for trehalose synthesis from glucose) and had no effect on treh gene expression (coding for trehalose degradation enzyme). The infected lines exhibited lower appetite but higher survival under starvation compared to the control. The data obtained may indicate that Wolbachia foster their hosts’ energy exchange through increasing its lipid storage and glucose content to ensure the host’s competitive advantage over uninfected individuals. The scheme of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism regulation under Wolbachia’s influence was suggested.
Lutein Encapsulated in PLGA–Phospholipid Nano-Carrier Effectively Mitigates Cytokines by Inhibiting Tumor Necrosis Factor TNF-α and Nuclear Factor NF-κB in Mice Retina
Authors: Arunkumar Ranganathan , Baskaran Vallikannan
Published: April 2023

Lutein, a photo- and thermo-labile macular pigment, prevents the retina from suffering ocular inflammation with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. However, its biological activity is poor due to poor solubility and bioavailability. Therefore, we developed a PLGA NCs (+PL), (poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanocarrier with phospholipid) to improve the biological availability and bioefficacy of lutein in the retina of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lutein-devoid (LD) mice. The effect of lutein-loaded NCs with/without PL was studied in comparison with micellar lutein. The induction of inflammation by LPS significantly increased the production of nitrites in the LPS-induced group, revealing higher levels of nitric oxide (NO) in the serum (760%) and retina (891%) compared to the control group. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the serum (93%) and retina (205%) of the LPS-induced group were higher compared to the control group. LPS induction resulted in increased protein carbonyls in the serum (481%) and retina (487%) of the LPS group compared to the control group. Further, to conclude, lutein-PLGA NCs (+PL) effectively down-regulated inflammatory complications in the retina.
New Record of Geoduck Clam Collected from the East Coast of South Korea and Its Reproductive Characteristics
Authors: Han Jeonghoon , Kim Jong Guk , Kwon O-Nam , Choi Young-Ung
Published: April 2023

Geoduck clams are important commercial marine resources in Southeast Asia. However, the complete mitochondrial genome of the native geoduck clam in South Korea has not been reported yet. This study reports a geoduck clam collected from the east coast of South Korea. Based on its morphological characteristics and molecular data, the geoduck clam was identified as Panopea sp. belonging to the bivalve family Hiatellidae. We determined the complete mitochondrial genome of this species and investigated the seasonal reproductive pattern for monthly changes in sex ratio, gametogenesis, and reproductive cycle from September 2019 to August 2020. The total length of the complete mitochondrial genome sequence is 16,006 bp, containing 13 protein-coding, 22 transfer RNA, 2 ribosomal RNA, and a control region (D-loop). A molecular phylogenetic comparison with 10 bivalve species showed that the geoduck clam specimen belongs to the family Hiatellidae, clustering with Panopea abrupta Chinese strain, P. generosa, and P. globosa. The gametogenesis of the geoduck clam was identified in six stages by histological analysis. The sex ratio was biased towards males from May 2019 to July 2019, the main spawning activity from the frequency of the gonads with ripe and spent stages occurred from October 2018 to April 2019, and there was no clear pattern of spawning peaks from May to August 2019 with gonads developed asynchronously between both sexes. This is the first study to report new records of the genus Panopea based on the complete mitochondrial genome and to examine the seasonal reproductive pattern of the native geoduck clam Panopea sp. in South Korea, providing valuable information for its sustainable management in South Korea.
Antioxidant and Anti-Breast Cancer Properties of Hyaluronidase from Marine Staphylococcus aureus (CASMTK1)
Authors: Thirumurthy Kathiravan , Kaliyamoorthy Kalidasan , Kandasamy Kathiresan , Ponnuvel Mohanchander , Viyakarn Voranop , Chavanich Suchana , Dufossé Laurent
Published: April 2023

This work studied the antioxidant and anti-breast cancer properties of hyaluronidase, extracted from a potential marine strain, Staphylococcus aureus (CASMTK1), isolated from Parangipettai coastal waters in southeast coast of India. The Staphylococcal enzyme production was tested under different carbon and nitrogen sources; and recorded the maximum production when the microbial strain was cultured with starch as the carbon source and ammonium sulphate as the inorganic nitrogen source with the enzyme production of 92.5 U/mL and 95.0 U/mL, respectively. The hyaluronidase enzyme production was also tested in different pH and temperature; and recorded the maximum yield of 102.5 U/mL in pH 5 and that of 95.5 U/mL in 45 °C. The partially purified enzyme was subjected to FTIR and FT Raman technique and found the presence of the amide- I and II, Carboxyl, N-H bending, C-H stretching and α-helices and β-sheet proteins between wave number 1500–1700 cm−1. The partially purified enzyme also exhibited strong antioxidant and in-vitro breast cancer properties. The enzyme showed the highest hydroxyl radical scavenging activity of 79% at the 50 µg/mL concentration, and this activity increased in a dose-dependent manner. The enzyme inhibited proliferation of the breast cancer cell line of MCF-7, and it caused 100% cell death at the concentration of 80 µg/mL. The enzyme generated capacity of producing free radicles that damage the cancer cells, and this effect was very nearer to the standard drug, paclitaxel. The enzyme damaged the cancer cells and induced apoptosis in 78% of cancer cells as evident by condensed or fragmented chromatin at 40 µg/mL. Further purification of the enzyme, analysis of its molecular aspects, and elucidation of exact mechanisms of its biological activities will throw new light on the utility of staphylococcal hyaluronidase in anticancer chemotherapy.
Acoustical Behavior of Delphinid Whistles in the Presence of an Underwater Explosion Event in the Mediterranean Coastal Waters of Spain
Authors: Lara Guillermo , Bou-Cabo Manuel , Llorens Susana , Miralles Ramón , Espinosa Víctor
Published: April 2023

Underwater noise is a significant pollutant produced by anthropogenic activities carried out in the sea. Several types of acoustic sources can potentially have adverse impacts on marine fauna, especially on cetaceans. The vocalization response of cetaceans to underwater noise varies depending on noise characteristics such as duration, bandwidth, and intensity, as well as the species being insonified. Some studies report changes in vocalization properties due to continuous noise, but there is a lack of knowledge regarding impulsive noise sources, especially those related to explosive events. It is known that underwater explosions represent a serious threat to marine fauna because it produces one of the highest sound pressure levels introduced by anthropogenic activities. In this communication, an opportunistic study related to changes in the dolphin vocalizations was performed by considering two scenarios (i.e., before and after a detonation event). The acoustic raw data were recorded by a passive acoustic device installed in a mooring line deployed in the Mediterranean coast of Spain. The objective of the experimental installation was to monitor the underwater sound pressure level in the framework of the development of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) in Spain. A detonation event of unknown origin was recorded during the monitoring period while Delphinids were vocalizing, allowing for the observation of their acoustic reaction to the explosion. The study considers the number of vocalizations, morphology of whistles, and spectral characteristics before and after the explosion. The results obtained indicate that the number of whistles, their complexity in terms of morphology, and spectral components vary due to the explosive event, showing significant differences that will be presented and discussed in this communication.
Races CYR34 and Suwon11-1 of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici Played an Important Role in Causing the Stripe Rust Epidemic in Winter Wheat in Yili, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Chen Li , Awais Muhammad , Yang Hong , Shen Yuyang , Li Guangkuo , Gao Haifeng , Ma Jinbiao
Published: April 2023

Wheat stripe rust caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici is a destructive disease. Its pathogen frequently adapts to newly invaded regions and overcomes resistance in wheat cultivars. This disease is especially important in China due to its favorable conditions for the stripe rust epidemic and the recombination population structure of pathogens. Xinjiang is a vast epidemic region in China, but very limited research on this disease has been performed in this region. In this study, we identified 25 races from 129 isolates collected from winter wheat fields from five different regions (Nileke, Xinyuan, Gongliu, Huocheng, and Qapqal) of Yili, Xinjiang, using the Chinese set of 19 differential wheat lines. All isolates were virulent on the differentials Fulhad and Early Premium, but no isolates were virulent on Yr5. Among the 25 races, Suwon11-1 was the most prevalent, followed by CYR34. Both races were found in four out of the five locations. It is important to continue monitoring stripe rust and its pathogen races in this region, as it forms a pathway between China and Central Asia. Collaborative research is essential for controlling stripe rust in this region, other regions in China, and neighboring countries.