bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Coenzyme Q10 Content in Food By-Products and Waste by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Diode Array Detection
Authors: Semeniuc Cristina Anamaria , Ranga Floricuța , Podar Andersina Simina , Ionescu Simona Raluca , Socaciu Maria-Ioana , Fogarasi Melinda , Fărcaș Anca Corina , Vodnar Dan Cristian , Socaci Sonia Ancuța
Published: June 2023

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like compound found naturally in plant- and animal-derived materials. This study aimed to determine the level of CoQ10 in some food by-products (oil press cakes) and waste (fish meat and chicken hearts) to recover this compound for further use as a dietary supplement. The analytical method involved ultrasonic extraction using 2-propanol, followed by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The HPLC-DAD method was validated in terms of linearity and measuring range, limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ), trueness, and precision. As a result, the calibration curve of CoQ10 was linear over the concentration range of 1–200 µg/mL, with an LOD of 22 µg/mL and an LOQ of 0.65 µg/mL. The CoQ10 content varied from not detected in the hempseed press cake and the fish meat to 84.80 µg/g in the pumpkin press cake and 383.25 µg/g in the lyophilized chicken hearts; very good recovery rates and relative standard deviations (RSDs) were obtained for the pumpkin press cake (100.9–116.0% with RSDs between 0.05–0.2%) and the chicken hearts (99.3–106.9% CH with RSDs between 0.5–0.7%), showing the analytical method’s trueness and precision and thus its accuracy. In conclusion, a simple and reliable method for determining CoQ10 levels has been developed here.
Enhancement of Lipid Stability of Frozen Fish by Octopus-Waste Glazing
Authors: Méndez Lucía , Zhang Bin , Aubourg Santiago P.
Published: June 2023

The antioxidant properties of the liquor resulting from commercial octopus cooking were analysed for this study. Two different concentrations of octopus-cooking liquor (OCL) were tested as glazing systems during the frozen storage period (−18 °C for up to 6 months) of whole Atlantic horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus). Compared to water-control glazing samples, an inhibitory effect (p < 0.05) on lipid oxidation development (the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and fluorescent compounds) was detected in frozen fish treated with the most concentrated OCL-glazing system. Additionally, a preservative effect (p < 0.05) on polyunsaturated fatty acids (measurement of polyene index) was also proved. However, no effect (p > 0.05) on the free fatty acid content and on the ω3/ω6 ratio was detected with the presence of the OCL in the glazing system. An increased lipid quality in frozen horse mackerel was established by including the OCL solution in the glazing system. According to previous research, the observed preserving properties were explained on the basis of the presence of antioxidant compounds in the cooking liquor. A novel and valuable combination of glazing processing and the employment of a marine waste substrate is proposed to enhance the lipid stability of frozen fish.
Botanical Origins and Antioxidant Activities of Two Types of Flavonoid-Rich Poplar-Type Propolis
Authors: Qiao Jiangtao , Wang Yingying , Zhang Yu , Kong Lingjie , Zhang Hongcheng
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Propolis has attracted attention in recent years due to its important pharmacological effects. The present study aimed to investigate the botanical origins of 39 propolis samples and evaluate their antioxidant activities; (2) Methods: A HPLC-PDA system was used to analyze the phenolic compositions of propolis and poplar bud resin samples. The antioxidant activities of propolis samples were evaluated by oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC) and superoxide anion free radical scavenging capacity assay; (3) Results: Our study shows that 17 propolis samples were characterized by five predominant flavonoids, including 5-methoxy pinobanksin, pinobanksin, pinocembrin, pinobanksin-3-acetate, and chrysin, while 22 propolis samples were characterized by four flavonoids (pinobanksin, pinocembrin, pinobanksin-3-acetate, and chrysin). The average contents of characteristic flavonoids reached up to over 70% and 65% of total phenolics, respectively. Furthermore, the botanical origins of the two types of propolis samples were identified as Populus × euramericana cv. ‘Neva’ and Populus Simonii × P. nigra, respectively; (4) Conclusions: Most notably, our results reveal that these propolis samples presented excellent antioxidant activities due to their high contents of flavonoid. These flavonoid-rich propolis samples can thus be used to develop low-allergen and high-antioxidant nutraceuticals.
Rheological Considerations of Pharmaceutical Formulations: Focus on Viscoelasticity
Authors: Budai Lívia , Budai Marianna , Fülöpné Pápay Zsófia Edit , Vilimi Zsófia , Antal István
Published: June 2023

Controlling rheological properties offers the opportunity to gain insight into the physical characteristics, structure, stability and drug release rate of formulations. To better understand the physical properties of hydrogels, not only rotational but also oscillatory experiments should be performed. Viscoelastic properties, including elastic and viscous properties, are measured using oscillatory rheology. The gel strength and elasticity of hydrogels are of great importance for pharmaceutical development as the application of viscoelastic preparations has considerably expanded in recent decades. Viscosupplementation, ophthalmic surgery and tissue engineering are just a few examples from the wide range of possible applications of viscoelastic hydrogels. Hyaluronic acid, alginate, gellan gum, pectin and chitosan are remarkable representatives of gelling agents that attract great attention applied in biomedical fields. This review provides a brief summary of rheological properties, highlighting the viscoelasticity of hydrogels with great potential in biomedicine.
Earth Observation Data Synergy for the Enhanced Monitoring of Ephemeral Water Bodies to Anticipate Karst-Related Flooding
Authors: Papageorgiou Elena , Foumelis Michael , Mouratidis Antonios
Published: June 2023

With the increasing availability and diversity of satellite imagery, the multisensor fusion of data can more effectively address the improved monitoring of temporary water bodies. This study supports the attempt to apply well established methods to detect spatial and temporal changes in ephemeral shallow lakes in lowland karst terrain, as well as to improve the understanding concerning the dynamics of water storage and hydrological mechanisms during extreme precipitation events. Based on the joint analysis of Copernicus Sentinel SAR and optical mission data, as well as soil moisture and EO-based rainfall observations over the period of 2015–2020, we demonstrated the control of the karst system on the ephemeral lake appearances in the broader area of Chalkida (Evvia, Greece). A connection between the prolonged and extended water coverage in the ephemeral lakes and flooding in the area is documented. Our EO-supported findings may serve as indicators for flood alerts in future extreme precipitation events, improving responses in cases of emergencies.
Musculoskeletal Injury Risk Stratification: A Traffic Light System for Military Service Members
Authors: Roach Megan H. , Bird Matthew B. , Helton Matthew S. , Mauntel Timothy C.
Published: June 2023

Risk factor identification is a critical first step in informing musculoskeletal injury (MSKI) risk mitigation strategies. This investigation aimed to determine if a self-reported MSKI risk assessment can accurately identify military service members at greater MSKI risk and determine whether a traffic light model can differentiate service members’ MSKI risks. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using existing self-reported MSKI risk assessment data and MSKI data from the Military Health System. A total of 2520 military service members (2219 males: age 23.49 ± 5.17 y, BMI 25.11 ± 2.94 kg/m2; and 301 females: age 24.23 ± 5.85 y, BMI 25.59 ± 3.20 kg/m2, respectively) completed the MSKI risk assessment during in-processing. The risk assessment consisted of 16 self-report items regarding demographics, general health, physical fitness, and pain experienced during movement screens. These 16 data points were converted to 11 variables of interest. For each variable, service members were dichotomized as at risk or not at risk. Nine of the 11 variables were associated with a greater MSKI risk and were thus considered as risk factors for the traffic light model. Each traffic light model included three color codes (i.e., green, amber, and red) to designate risk (i.e., low, moderate, and high). Four traffic light models were generated to examine the risk and overall precision of different cut-off values for the amber and red categories. In all four models, service members categorized as amber [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.38–1.70] or red (HR = 2.67–5.82) were at a greater MSKI risk. The traffic light model may help prioritize service members who require individualized orthopedic care and MSKI risk mitigation plans.
Clinical and Epidemiological Profiles of Primary Healthcare Professionals with COVID-19 Infection and Long COVID: An Observational Study
Authors: Romero-Rodríguez Esperanza , Vélez-Santamaría Rodrigo , Pérula-de-Torres Luis Ángel , González-Lama Jesús , Castro-Jiménez Rafael Ángel , Simón-Vicente Lucía , Jiménez-García Celia , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , Santamaría-Peláez Mirian , Fernández-Solana Jessica , González-Santos Josefa
Published: June 2023

Health professionals have been one of the groups most affected by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Currently, there is little scientific evidence on the similarities and differences between COVID-19 infection and the development of long COVID in primary care (PC) workers. Therefore, it is necessary to analyse their clinical and epidemiological profiles in depth. This study was observational and descriptive, including PC professionals who were divided into three comparison groups based on the diagnostic test for acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. The responses were analysed using descriptive and bivariate analysis to examinate the relationship between independent variables and the presence or not of long COVID. Binary logistic regression analysis was also conducted, with each symptom as the dependent variable and each group as the independent variable. The results describe the sociodemographic characteristics of these population groups, revealing that women in the health sector are the most affected by long COVID and that being in this group is associated with its development. Furthermore, individuals with long COVID exhibited the highest number of symptoms and pathologies. Certain symptoms were found to be associated with long COVID development in this population, including an altered sense of smell, pneumonia, fever, and sore throat, among others. Similarly, altered senses of smell and taste, chest tightness, and joint pain, among others, were found to be associated with acute COVID-19 infection. Additionally, patients with pre-existing overweight or obesity were more likely to experience acute COVID-19 and develop long COVID. The data obtained can be crucial for improving the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of long COVID patients, ultimately leading to an enhancement in their quality of life.
School Health Services and Health Education Curricula in Greece: Scoping Review and Policy Plan
Authors: Soultatou Pelagia , Vardaros Stamatis , Bagos Pantelis G.
Published: June 2023

The new generation’s health and wellbeing is of paramount importance: it constitutes United Nations’ priority, complies with Children’s Rights and responds to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. In this perspective, school health and health education, as facets of the public health domain targeted at young people, deserve further attention after the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic crisis in order to revise policies. The key objectives of this article are (a) to review the evidence generated over a span of two decades (2003–2023), identifying the main policy gaps by taking Greece as a case study, and (b) to provide a concrete and integrated policy plan. Following the qualitative research paradigm, a scoping review is used to identify policy gaps in school health services (SHS) and school health education curricula (SHEC). Data are extracted from four databases: Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar, while the findings are categorized into the following themes following specific inclusion and exclusion criteria: school health services, school health education curricula, school nursing, all with reference to Greece. A corpus of 162 out 282 documents in English and Greek initially accumulated, is finally used. The 162 documents consisted of seven doctoral theses, four legislative texts, 27 conference proceedings, 117 publications in journals and seven syllabuses. Out of the 162 documents, only 17 correspond to the set of research questions. The findings suggest that school health services are not school-based but a function of the primary health care system, whereas health education retains a constantly changing position in school curricula, and several deficiencies in schoolteachers’ training, coordination and leadership impede the implementation. Regarding the second objective of this article, a set of policy measures is provided in terms of a problem-solving perspective, towards the reform and integration of school health with health education.
Operationalising the Family-Friendly Medical Workplace and the Development of FAM-MED, a Family-Friendly Self-Audit Tool for Medical Systems: A Delphi Consensus
Authors: Peisah Carmelle , Sheppard Adrianna , Benbow Susan Mary , Loughran-Fowlds Alison , Grayson Susan , Gunton Jenny E. , Kataria Anuradha , Lai Rosalyn , Lele Kiran , Quadrio Carolyn , Wright Danette , McLean Loyola
Published: June 2023

Globally, the call for Family-Friendly (FF) workplaces is loud and clear. However, this call is inaudible in medical workplaces, despite both well-established benefits of FF workplaces across businesses and well-known effects of work–family conflict on the well-being and practice of doctors. We aimed to use the Delphi consensus methodology to: (i) operationalise the Family-Friendly medical workplace and (ii) develop a Family-Friendly Self-Audit tool for medical workplaces. The expert medical Delphi panel was deliberatively recruited to capture a breadth of professional, personal, and academic expertise, diversity of age (35–81), life stage, family contexts and lived experience of dual commitments to work and family, and diversity of work settings and positions. Results reflected the inclusive and dynamic nature of the doctor’s family and the need to adopt a family life cycle approach to FF medical workplaces. Key processes for implementation include holding firms to zero discrimination; flexibility and openness to dialogue and feedback; and a mutual commitment between the doctor and the department lead to best meet the doctor’s individualised needs while still ensuring optimal patient care and team support and cohesion. We hypothesise that the Department Head may be the key to implementation but recognise the workforce constraints to realising these aspirational systemic shifts. It is time we acknowledge that doctors have families, to narrow the gap between identifying as a partner, mother, father, daughter, son, grandparent, and identifying as a doctor. We affirm the right to be both good doctors and good family members.
Changes in Agronomic, Antioxidant Compounds, and Morphology Parameters of Green and Red Lettuces (Lactuca sativa L.) by Successive Harvests and UV-B Supplementation
Authors: Flores Mónica , Amorós Asunción , Escalona Víctor Hugo
Published: June 2023

The growing demand for lettuce has prompted the need for higher quality standards. Consequently, researchers have focused their efforts on identifying cultural management strategies that can enhance the synthesis of antioxidant compounds, leading to improved functional properties of lettuce. In this regard, two experiments were conducted on hydroponically grown Lollo Bionda ‘Levistro’ and Lollo Rosso ‘Carmoli’ lettuces, known, respectively, for their green and red crispy leaves. The first experiment assessed the effects of harvest time and cutting on fresh weight (FW), dry weight (DW), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total anthocyanin content (TAC), and antioxidant capacity (AC). The second experiment evaluated the response of FW, DW, TPC, TFC, TAC, AC, proline content, and morphological cell changes to UV-B supplementation in greenhouse conditions as well as the impact of successive harvests on the same plant. UV-B radiation and cutting led to a reduction in FW, but they also showed an increase in DW. Furthermore, UV-B radiation, cutting, and plant growth stage had significant effects on TPC, TFC, and AC in both cultivars. Applying 10.5 kJ m−2 of UV-B radiation or performing different harvests resulted in increased TFC in ‘Levistro’, exhibiting a remarkable 91% increase at the third harvest compared to the control group (0 kJ m−2 at the first harvest). UV-B radiation also induced changes in anatomical cell distribution in both cultivars, leading to a 37% increase in intracellular space in ‘Levistro’ and a reduction of up to 8.2% in ‘Carmoli’. Lastly, at a later stage of plant development (9-10th true leaves), ‘Carmoli’ demonstrated a 51% increase in TPC, 95% in TFC, and 65% in TAC, highlighting its potential as an intriguing strategy to obtain lettuce varieties with higher antioxidant properties. These findings underscore the significance of implementing cultural management techniques to enhance the antioxidant composition of lettuce.
The Use of ICTs to Support Social Participation in the Planning, Design and Maintenance of Public Spaces in Latin America
Authors: Alvarado Vazquez Sergio , Madureira Ana Mafalda , Ostermann Frank O. , Pfeffer Karin
Published: June 2023

Recent research indicates that information and communication technologies (ICTs) can support social participation in the planning, design and maintenance of public spaces (PDMPS), specifically to create comprehensive knowledge among different stakeholders. However, critics point out that the use of ICTs by planners and decision-makers often ignores the needs of local residents. For this research, we inquired how ICTs can support social participation in PDMPS. Our case study combines a literature review and 21 semi-structured interviews with government officials, non-governmental organisations, academics and architecture/urban planning consultancy companies in Mexico to understand how different stakeholders use ICTs to improve the quality of public spaces. We developed an approach that facilitates the analysis of ICT aspects related to hardware and software supporting social participation in PDMPS. The findings show that Mexico has a base of digital tools requiring technical capacities and spatial literacy at various stages of PDMPS, and ICTs are seen as an opportunity to engage with residents. However, in practice, our interviewees mentioned that ICTs are rarely implemented to support participatory processes due to high costs, a lack of political support and the insufficient technical expertise of technical staff to engage with residents using ICTs. The paper closes with recommendations and suggestions for future research on how ICTs can better support participatory processes in PDMPS.
Differentiation Capacity of Porcine Skeletal Muscle-Derived Stem Cells as Intermediate Species between Mice and Humans
Authors: Tamaki Tetsuro , Natsume Toshiharu , Katoh Akira , Nakajima Nobuyuki , Saito Kosuke , Fukuzawa Tsuyoshi , Otake Masayoshi , Enya Satoko , Kangawa Akihisa , Imai Takeshi , Tamaki Miyu , Uchiyama Yoshiyasu
Published: June 2023

Large animal experiments are important for preclinical studies of regenerative stem cell transplantation therapy. Therefore, we investigated the differentiation capacity of pig skeletal muscle-derived stem cells (Sk-MSCs) as an intermediate model between mice and humans for nerve muscle regenerative therapy. Enzymatically extracted cells were obtained from green-fluorescence transgenic micro-mini pigs (GFP-Tg MMP) and sorted as CD34+/45− (Sk-34) and CD34−/45−/29+ (Sk-DN) fractions. The ability to differentiate into skeletal muscle, peripheral nerve, and vascular cell lineages was examined via in vitro cell culture and in vivo cell transplantation into the damaged tibialis anterior muscle and sciatic nerves of nude mice and rats. Protein and mRNA levels were analyzed using RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunoelectron microscopy. The myogenic potential, which was tested by Pax7 and MyoD expression and the formation of muscle fibers, was higher in Sk-DN cells than in Sk-34 cells but remained weak in the latter. In contrast, the capacity to differentiate into peripheral nerve and vascular cell lineages was significantly stronger in Sk-34 cells. In particular, Sk-DN cells did not engraft to the damaged nerve, whereas Sk-34 cells showed active engraftment and differentiation into perineurial/endoneurial cells, endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells, similar to the human case, as previously reported. Therefore, we concluded that Sk-34 and Sk-DN cells in pigs are closer to those in humans than to those in mice.
Development of Terminator–Promoter Bifunctional Elements for Application in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pathway Engineering
Authors: Ni Xiaoxia , Liu Zhengyang , Guo Jintang , Zhang Genlin
Published: June 2023

The construction of a genetic circuit requires the substitution and redesign of different promoters and terminators. The assembly efficiency of exogenous pathways will also decrease significantly when the number of regulatory elements and genes is increased. We speculated that a novel bifunctional element with promoter and terminator functions could be created via the fusion of a termination signal with a promoter sequence. In this study, the elements from a Saccharomyces cerevisiae promoter and terminator were employed to design a synthetic bifunctional element. The promoter strength of the synthetic element is apparently regulated through a spacer sequence and an upstream activating sequence (UAS) with a ~5-fold increase, and the terminator strength could be finely regulated by the efficiency element, with a ~5-fold increase. Furthermore, the use of a TATA box-like sequence resulted in the adequate execution of both functions of the TATA box and the efficiency element. By regulating the TATA box-like sequence, UAS, and spacer sequence, the strengths of the promoter-like and terminator-like bifunctional elements were optimally fine-tuned with ~8-fold and ~7-fold increases, respectively. The application of bifunctional elements in the lycopene biosynthetic pathway showed an improved pathway assembly efficiency and higher lycopene yield. The designed bifunctional elements effectively simplified pathway construction and can serve as a useful toolbox for yeast synthetic biology.
Acetylsalicylic Acid Supplementation Affects the Neurochemical Phenotyping of Porcine Duodenal Neurons
Authors: Brzozowska Marta , Całka Jarosław
Published: June 2023

Aspirin (ASA) is a popular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which exerts its therapeutic properties through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) isoform 2 (COX-2), while the inhibition of COX-1 by ASA results in the formation of gastrointestinal side effects. Due to the fact that the enteric nervous system (ENS) is involved in the regulation of digestive functions both in physiological and pathological states, the aim of this study was to determine the influence of ASA on the neurochemical profile of enteric neurons in the porcine duodenum. Our research, conducted using the double immunofluorescence technique, proved an increase in the expression of selected enteric neurotransmitters in the duodenum as a result of ASA treatment. The mechanisms of the visualized changes are not entirely clear but are probably related to the enteric adaptation to inflammatory conditions resulting from aspirin supplementation. A detailed understanding of the role of the ENS in the development of drug-induced inflammation will contribute to the establishment of new strategies for the treatment of NSAID-induced lesions.
Significance of Type II Collagen Posttranslational Modifications: From Autoantigenesis to Improved Diagnosis and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Batsalova Tsvetelina , Dzhambazov Balik
Published: June 2023

Collagen type II (COL2), the main structural protein of hyaline cartilage, is considerably affected by autoimmune responses associated with the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) play a significant role in the formation of the COL2 molecule and supramolecular fibril organization, and thus, support COL2 function, which is crucial for normal cartilage structure and physiology. Conversely, the specific PTMs of the protein (carbamylation, glycosylation, citrullination, oxidative modifications and others) have been implicated in RA autoimmunity. The discovery of the anti-citrullinated protein response in RA, which includes anti-citrullinated COL2 reactivity, has led to the development of improved diagnostic assays and classification criteria for the disease. The induction of immunological tolerance using modified COL2 peptides has been highlighted as a potentially effective strategy for RA therapy. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize the recent knowledge on COL2 posttranslational modifications with relevance to RA pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. The significance of COL2 PTMs as a source of neo-antigens that activate immunity leading to or sustaining RA autoimmunity is discussed.
Influence of Different Packages and Storage Temperatures on the Quality of Edible Allium Species
Authors: Ivanova Maria I. , Yanchenko Elena , Kashleva Anna
Published: June 2023

Allium resources in Russia are a potential source of genes for expanding the genetic base of agricultural crops. The leaves of Allium crops have a short freshness period and quickly deteriorate due to spoilage and loss of water. The aim of the work was to establish the yield and change in the quality of green leaves of Allium species introduced into the Moscow region during short-term storage, depending on the type of packaging, storage period, and temperature. Research methods: introduction and mobilization of existing plant genetic collection of representatives of the genus Allium L. was carried out as part of the implementation of the State task. Four to five-year-old plants of four species (A. altyncolicum, A. chyatophorum, A. nutans and A. turkestanicum) were grown on the collection plot of perennial onions of VNIIO, a branch of the FGBNU FNTSO. In the conditions of the Moscow region, the yield per leaf generation varied from 2.7 kg/m2 (A. altyncolicum) to 4.9 kg/m2 (A. cyathophorum). The maximum yield of marketable products was noted in hermetically sealed plastic bags when stored for 10 days at a temperature of +6 to +8 °C in a refrigerator with controlled conditions: A. turkestanicum—70.0%, A. cyathophorum—75.5%, A. altyncolicum—84.9%, A. nutans—92.9%. The maximum content of vitamin C during storage in hermetic bags with a density of 100 μm was found in A. altyncolicum (37.1 mg per 100 g) and A. nutans (42 mg per 100 g). A slight increase in the amount of sugars after storage for 10 days was noted in species with a linear leaf shape when stored in a polymer box. Temperature control is the most effective approach to extending the shelf life of fresh green leaves by measuring their weight loss and vitamin C.
Inflammatory Profile of Th9 Cells and Their Protective Potential in Helminth Infections
Authors: Di Christine Oliveira Yvanna , de Oliveira Yrna , Cirilo Tatyane , Fujiwara Ricardo , Bueno Lilian , Dolabella Silvio
Published: June 2023

In terms of the global burden of disease, helminthiasis is the most common infectious disease in the world. In response to the disease, the human host develops an immunological response that occurs predominantly through the action of T helper 2 (Th2) cells and the interleukins IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13. However, other types of Th cells, such as Th9, are also involved in the defense against helminths, with the IL-9 produced by these cells promoting the induction of mastocytosis and the increased production of IgG1 and IgE, in addition to the increase in intestinal contractility that promotes the expulsion of worms. Together, IL-9 and IL-10, which is also produced by Th9, induce a type 2 inflammatory response characterized by the coordinated actions of innate lymphoid cells, mast cells, basophils and other cells that work together toward a single objective: the reduction of the parasitic burden. This review presents the latest findings on Th9 effector mechanisms in helminthic infections.
Synthesis of CuAl-LDHs by Co-Precipitation and Mechanochemical Methods and Selective Hydrogenation Catalysts Based on Them
Authors: Belskaya Olga B. , Terekhova Elena N. , Gorbunova Oksana V. , Muromtsev Ivan V. , Trenikhin Mikhail V. , Salanov Aleksei N. , Likholobov Vladimir A.
Published: June 2023

The paper presents the results of the synthesis and study of CuAl layered double hydroxides (LDHs) as well as their application as catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of crotonaldehyde. Phase-homogeneous LDHs were obtained by co-precipitation and mechanochemical methods, and critical parameters ensuring the formation of the target product were identified. In the case of coprecipitation, the formation of LDH is most affected by the pH of the reaction medium and the CO32−/Al3+ ratio. The optimal CO32−/Al3+ ratio is ca. 0.5–0.8 and pH 9.5–10.0. When mechanochemical synthesis is used, at 500 m·s−2 and 60 min, it is possible to obtain a single-phase CuAl LDH, whereas at higher energies, LDH is destroyed. The mechanochemical method makes it possible not only to reduce the synthesis time and the amount of alkaline wash water but also to obtain more dispersed copper particles with a higher hydrogenating activity. The conversion of 2-butenal (T = 80 °C, P = 0.5 MPa, 180 min, ethanol) for this sample was 99.9%, in contrast to 50.5% for the catalyst obtained by co-precipitation. It is important that, regardless of the conversion, both catalysts showed high selectivity (S = 90–95%) for the double bond hydrogenation.
A Multidimensional Approach to Assessing Factors Impacting Health-Related Quality of Life after Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: von Steinbuechel Nicole , Krenz Ugne , Bockhop Fabian , Koerte Inga K. , Timmermann Dagmar , Cunitz Katrin , Zeldovich Marina , Andelic Nada , Rojczyk Philine , Bonfert Michaela Veronika , Berweck Steffen , Kieslich Matthias , Brockmann Knut , Roediger Maike , Lendt Michael , Buchheim Anna , Muehlan Holger , Holloway Ivana , Olabarrieta-Landa Laiene
Published: June 2023

In the field of pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI), relationships between pre-injury and injury-related characteristics and post-TBI outcomes (functional recovery, post-concussion depression, anxiety) and their impact on disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are under-investigated. Here, a multidimensional conceptual model was tested using a structural equation model (SEM). The final SEM evaluates the associations between these four latent variables. We retrospectively investigated 152 children (8–12 years) and 148 adolescents (13–17 years) after TBI at the recruiting clinics or online. The final SEM displayed a fair goodness-of-fit (SRMR = 0.09, RMSEA = 0.08 with 90% CI [0.068, 0.085], GFI = 0.87, CFI = 0.83), explaining 39% of the variance across the four latent variables and 45% of the variance in HRQoL in particular. The relationships between pre-injury and post-injury outcomes and between post-injury outcomes and TBI-specific HRQoL were moderately strong. Especially, pre-injury characteristics (children’s age, sensory, cognitive, or physical impairments, neurological and chronic diseases, and parental education) may aggravate post-injury outcomes, which in turn may influence TBI-specific HRQoL negatively. Thus, the SEM comprises potential risk factors for developing negative post-injury outcomes, impacting TBI-specific HRQoL. Our findings may assist healthcare providers and parents in the management, therapy, rehabilitation, and care of pediatric individuals after TBI.
Delirium in Medically Hospitalized Patients: Prevalence, Recognition and Risk Factors: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Al Farsi Rajaa Saleh , Al Alawi Abdullah M. , Al Huraizi Aisha Ramadhan , Al-Saadi Taif , Al-Hamadani Noof , Al Zeedy Khalfan , Al-Maqbali Juhaina Salim
Published: June 2023

Background: Delirium is a common neuropsychiatric syndrome in hospitalized elderly patients and is associated with poor clinical outcomes. We aimed to determine the prevalence, recognition, risk factors, and course of delirium among hospitalized elderly (65 years of age or older) patients at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH). Methods: A prospective cohort study included 327 elderly patients (65 years of age or older) admitted to the medical wards at SQUH. Patients were screened for delirium using the 3-Minute Diagnostic Confusion Assessment Method (3D-CAM). Additionally, medical records were reviewed to identify possible associated factors. Results: The prevalence of delirium was 55.4% (95% CI 49.9–60.7), and 35.4% of patients with delirium were not recognized by the treating team. Hypoactive delirium is the most common type of delirium. The logistic regression analyzes demonstrated that pre-existing cognitive impairment (OR = 4.0); poor functional status (OR = 1.9); the use of medications that are known to precipitate delirium (OR = 2.3); polypharmacy (OR = 5.7); urinary catheterization (OR = 2.2); dehydration (OR = 3.1); and electrolytes derangements (OR = 2.0) were independent risk factors for delirium. Furthermore, 56.9% of patients with delirium continued to have delirium upon discharge from the hospital. Conclusions: Delirium is common among elderly patients hospitalized in general medical wards. Implementing effective preventive strategies for delirium during the hospital stay, including early recognition using standard sensitive and specific screening tools (i.e., 3D-CAM) and developing geriatric wards, is crucial.
Home Pulse Pressure Predicts Death and Cardiovascular Events in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Panuccio Vincenzo , Provenzano Pasquale Fabio , Tripepi Rocco , Versace Maria Carmela , Parlongo Giovanna , Politi Emma , Vilasi Antonio , Mezzatesta Sabrina , Abelardo Domenico , Tripepi Giovanni Luigi , Torino Claudia
Published: June 2023

Increased arterial hypertension represents a prevalent condition in peritoneal dialysis patients that is often related to volume expansion. Pulse pressure is a robust predictor of mortality in dialysis patients, but its association with mortality is unknown in peritoneal patients. We investigated the relationship between home pulse pressure and survival in 140 PD patients. During a mean follow-up of 35 months, 62 patients died, and 66 experienced the combined event death/CV events. In a crude COX regression analysis, a five-unit increase in HPP was associated with a 17% increase in the hazard ratio of mortality (HR: 1.17, 95% CI 1.08–1.26 p < 0.001). This result was confirmed in a multiple Cox model adjusted for age, gender, diabetes, systolic arterial pressure, and dialysis adequacy (HR: 1.31, 95% CI 1.12–1.52, p = 0.001). Similar results were obtained considering the combined event death–CV events as an outcome. Home pulse pressure represents, in part, arterial stiffness, and it is strongly related to all-cause mortality in peritoneal patients. In these high cardiovascular risk populations, it is important to maintain optimal blood pressure control, but it is fundamental to consider all the other cardiovascular risk indicators, such as pulse pressure. Home pulse pressure measurement is easy and feasible and can add important information for the identification and management of high-risk patients.
Exosomes Derived from Colon Cancer Cells Promote Tumor Progression and Affect the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Kim Minsung , Son Il Tae , Noh Gyoung Tae , Woo So-Youn , Lee Ryung-Ah , Oh Bo Young
Published: June 2023

Cancer-cell-derived exosomes confer oncogenic properties in their tumor microenvironment and to other cells; however, the exact mechanism underlying this process is unclear. Here, we investigated the roles of cancer-cell-derived exosomes in colon cancer. Exosomes were isolated from colon cancer cell lines, HT-29, SW480, and LoVo, using an ExoQuick-TC kit, identified using Western blotting for exosome markers, and characterized using transmission electron microscopy and nanosight tracking analysis. The isolated exosomes were used to treat HT-29 to evaluate their effect on cancer progression, specifically cell viability and migration. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) were obtained from patients with colorectal cancer to analyze the effect of the exosomes on the tumor microenvironment. RNA sequencing was performed to evaluate the effect of the exosomes on the mRNA component of CAFs. The results showed that exosome treatment significantly increased cancer cell proliferation, upregulated N-cadherin, and downregulated E-cadherin. Exosome-treated cells exhibited higher motility than control cells. Compared with control CAFs, exosome-treated CAFs showed more downregulated genes. The exosomes also altered the regulation of different genes involved in CAFs. In conclusion, colon cancer-cell-derived exosomes affect cancer cell proliferation and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition. They promote tumor progression and metastasis and affect the tumor microenvironment.
No Major Nerve Regeneration Seems to Occur during Recovery of Ulnar Neuropathy at the Elbow
Authors: Podnar Simon
Published: June 2023

Introduction: There are three main potential mechanisms of recovery after nerve lesion: (1) resolution of conduction block, (2) collateral reinnervation, and (3) nerve regeneration. Their relative contributions in recovery after focal neuropathies are not well established. Methods: In a group of previously reported prospective cohort of patients with ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE), I performed a post-hoc analysis of their clinical and electrodiagnostic findings. I compared amplitudes of the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) on ulnar nerve stimulation, as well as qualitative concentric needle electromyography (EMG) findings in the abductor digiti minimi muscle on the initial and follow-up examinations several years later. Results: Altogether, 111 UNE patients (114 arms) were studied. During median follow-up period of 880 days (range: 385–1545 days), CMAP amplitude increased (p = 0.02), and conduction block in the elbow segment recovered (from median 17% to 7%; p < 0.001). By contrast, SNAP amplitude did not change (p = 0.89). On needle EMG, spontaneous denervation activity diminished (p < 0.001), motor unit potential (MUP) amplitude increased (p < 0.001), and MUP recruitment remained unchanged (p = 0.43). Conclusions: Findings of the present study indicate that nerve function in chronic focal compression/entrapment neuropathies seems to improve mainly due to the resolution of the conduction block and collateral reinnervation. Contribution of nerve regeneration seems to be minor; the majority of axons lost in chronic focal neuropathies probably never recover. Further studies using quantitative methods are needed to validate present findings.
Cooling Rate Modeling and Evaluation during Centrifugal Atomization Process
Authors: Cegarra Sasha A. , Pijuan Jordi , Riera María D.
Published: June 2023

Centrifugal atomization is a rapid solidification technique involving fast cooling rates to produce high-quality powders. The final microstructure of the atomized particles is closely linked with the thermal history and cooling rates experienced during the atomization process. However, there is insufficient research on the temperature evolution of metal particles produced by this technique, and most works evaluate the thermal history of the droplet through semi-empirical correlations that lie outside the conditions where they were derived. In this work, the cooling rate of centrifugally atomized Al-4%Cu was studied via mathematical modelling and experimental validation. A heat transfer model was implemented, and the value of the convective heat transfer coefficient was obtained from the Whitaker semi-empirical correlation considering three cases of study for the thermophysical properties of the gas. The validity of the Whitaker correlation was experimentally evaluated by means of cooling rates based on the Secondary Dendrite Arm Spacing (SDAS) technique. The Whitaker correlation with the Reynolds and Prandtl numbers evaluated at the ambient temperature and the gas conductivity evaluated at the film temperature gave the best agreement with the experimental results, with cooling rates in the order of 105 Ks−1 for <32.5 µm powders atomized in He atmosphere.
Current Therapy of Chronic Viral Hepatitis B, C and D
Authors: Schlaak Jörg F.
Published: June 2023

The majority of chronic viral hepatitis cases are induced via infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), or hepatitis D virus (HDV). These patients are at increased risk for progressive liver disease leading to cirrhosis as well as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV infection is well controlled by the currently available nucleosides as well as nucleotides, and the development of cirrhosis can be prevented. Additionally, it has been shown that HBV-induced liver fibrosis can regress during successful antiviral treatment; however, a “functional cure”, i.e., loss of HBsAg, is a rare event when these drugs are used. Therefore, novel therapeutic strategies are aiming at the selective suppression of HBsAg levels in combination with immunostimulation. The development of directly acting antivirals (DAAs) has revolutionized HCV therapy, as almost all patients can be cured via this treatment. Additionally, DAA therapy has few, if any, side effects, and is generally well tolerated by patients. HDV remains the most challenging type of chronic viral hepatitis. Although novel therapeutic options have recently been approved, response rates are still less favorable compared to HBV and HCV. This review discusses current and future options for the treatment of chronic HBV, HCV, and HDV infection.
Sex- and Gender-Specific Drug Abuse Dynamics: The Need for Tailored Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Marinelli Susanna , Basile Giuseppe , Manfredini Roberto , Zaami Simona
Published: June 2023

Sex and gender have been gaining ever greater attention due to their associated risks, dynamics, patterns and protective factors underlying substance abuse and addiction. Such differentiations and the clarification of complexities thereof take on even greater relevance in light of drug abuse scope worldwide. According to the 2022 World Drug Report released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in 2020 an estimated 284 million people worldwide aged 15–64 had used a drug within the last 12 months. The authors have set out to shed a light on determinants and contributing factors of drug abuse based on sex and gender and outline policy and medicolegal remarks aimed at delineating sex- and gender-based approaches towards drug abuse therapeutic interventions that are both therapeutically and ethically/legally viable and grounded in an evidence-based set of standards. Neurobiological data suggest that estrogen may facilitate drug taking by interacting with reward- and stress-related systems. In animal research, the administration of estrogen increases drug taking and facilitates the acquisition, escalation, and reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior. From a medicolegal perspective, it is of utmost importance to take into account the whole picture constituting each patient profile, which certainly includes gender factors and contributors, when outlining a therapeutic approach. Failure to do so could lead to negligence-based malpractice allegations, in light of the scientific findings representing best practices with which clinicians need to comply when caring for SUD patients.
Diagnosis of Left-Sided Mechanical Prosthetic Valve Thrombosis: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Serban Adela , Dadarlat-Pop Alexandra , Achim Alexandru , Gavan Dana , Pepine Diana , Rancea Raluca , Tomoaia Raluca
Published: June 2023

Although transcatheter valve therapy is rapidly evolving, surgical valve replacement is still required in many patients with severe left-side valve stenosis or regurgitation, the mechanical bi-leaflet heart valve being the standard prosthesis type in younger patients. Moreover, the prevalence of valvular heart disease is steadily increasing, especially in industrialized countries, and the problem of lifelong efficient anticoagulation of these patients remains fundamental, especially in the context where vitamin K antagonists continue to be the current standard of anticoagulation despite a level of oscillating anticoagulation. In this setting, avoiding prosthetic valve thrombosis after surgery is the number one objective for both the patient and the responsible physicians. Although rare, this complication is life threatening, with the sudden onset of acute cardiac failure such as acute pulmonary edema, cardiogenic shock, or sudden cardiac death and inadequate anticoagulation remaining the leading cause of prosthesis thrombosis, along with other risk factors. The availability of multimodal imaging techniques enables and encompasses to a full extent the diagnosis of mechanical valve thrombosis. The gold-standard diagnostic methods are transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. Moreover, 3D ultrasound has undoubted value in giving a more accurate description of the thrombus’s extension. When transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography are uncertain, the multidetector computer tomography examination is an important complementary imaging method. Fluoroscopy is also an excellent tool for evaluating the mobility of prosthetic discs. Each method complements the other to differentiate an acute mechanical valve thrombosis from other prosthetic valve pathologies such as pannus formation or infective endocarditis and aids the physician in accurately establishing the treatment method (surgical or pharmaceutical) and its optimal timing. The aim of this pictorial review was to discuss from an imagistic perspective the mechanical prosthetic aortic and mitral valve thrombosis and to provide an overview of the essential role of non-invasive exploration in the treatment of this severe complication.