bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Lipid Extraction Protocols for Untargeted Analysis of Mouse Tissue Lipidome
Authors: Omar Ashraf M. , Zhang Qibin
Published: September 2023

Lipidomics refers to the full characterization of lipids present within a cell, tissue, organism, or biological system. One of the bottlenecks affecting reliable lipidomic analysis is the extraction of lipids from biological samples. An ideal extraction method should have a maximum lipid recovery and the ability to extract a broad range of lipid classes with acceptable reproducibility. The most common lipid extraction relies on either protein precipitation (monophasic methods) or liquid–liquid partitioning (bi- or triphasic methods). In this study, three monophasic extraction systems, isopropanol (IPA), MeOH/MTBE/CHCl3 (MMC), and EtOAc/EtOH (EE), alongside three biphasic extraction methods, Folch, butanol/MeOH/heptane/EtOAc (BUME), and MeOH/MTBE (MTBE), were evaluated for their performance in characterization of the mouse lipidome of six different tissue types, including pancreas, spleen, liver, brain, small intestine, and plasma. Sixteen lipid classes were investigated in this study using reversed-phase liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Results showed that all extraction methods had comparable recoveries for all tested lipid classes except lysophosphatidylcholines, lysophosphatidylethanolamines, acyl carnitines, sphingomyelines, and sphingosines. The recoveries of these classes were significantly lower with the MTBE method, which could be compensated by the addition of stable isotope-labeled internal standards prior to lipid extraction. Moreover, IPA and EE methods showed poor reproducibility in extracting lipids from most tested tissues. In general, Folch is the optimum method in terms of efficacy and reproducibility for extracting mouse pancreas, spleen, brain, and plasma. However, MMC and BUME methods are more favored when extracting mouse liver or intestine.
A Basic Study of the Effects of Mulberry Leaf Administration to Healthy C57BL/6 Mice on Gut Microbiota and Metabolites
Authors: Gan Li , Inamura Yuga , Shimizu Yu , Yokoi Yuki , Ohnishi Yuki , Song Zihao , Kumaki Yasuhiro , Kikukawa Takashi , Demura Makoto , Ito Masaaki , Ayabe Tokiyoshi , Nakamura Kiminori , Aizawa Tomoyasu
Published: September 2023

Mulberry leaves contain α-glucosidase inhibitors, which have hypoglycemic effects and are considered functional foods. However, few reports have covered the effects of mulberry leaf components on normal gut microbiota and gut metabolites. Herein, gut microbiota analysis and NMR-based metabolomics were performed on the feces of mulberry leaf powder (MLP)-treated mice to determine the effects of long-term MLP consumption. Gut microbiota in the mouse were analyzed using 16S-rRNA gene sequencing, and no significant differences were revealed in the diversity and community structure of the gut microbiota in the C57BL/6 mice with or without MLP supplementation. Thirty-nine metabolites were identified via 1H-NMR analysis, and carbohydrates and amino acids were significantly (p < 0.01–0.05) altered upon MLP treatment. In the MLP-treated group, there was a marked increase and decrease in maltose and glucose concentrations, respectively, possibly due to the degradation inhibitory activity of oligosaccharides. After 5 weeks, all amino acid concentrations decreased. Furthermore, despite clear fluctuations in fecal saccharide concentrations, short-chain fatty acid production via intestinal bacterial metabolism was not strongly affected. This study provides the knowledge that MLP administration can alter the gut metabolites without affecting the normal gut microbiota, which is useful for considering MLP as a healthy food source.
Ore Genesis of the Lower Urgen Porphyry Molybdenum Deposit in the Northern Great Xing’an Range, Northeast China: Constraints from Molybdenite Re-Os Dating, Fluid Inclusions, and H-O-S-Pb Isotopes
Authors: Zhang Guangliang , Xie Wei , Wen Shouqin , Zeng Qingdong , Zhou Lingli , Wang Hui , Zhang Kailun , Tang Tieqiao , Ma Pengcheng
Published: September 2023

The Lower Urgen molybdenum deposit (44,856 t Mo @ 0.141%), situated in the northern Great Xing’an Range, is a newly discovered porphyry molybdenum deposit. Mineralization is characterized by veinlet-disseminated- and vein-type quartz–sulfide orebodies primarily occurring in the cupola of the Early Cretaceous granite porphyry stock. In this study, we present a detailed description of the ore geology, molybdenite Re-Os dating, H-O-S-Pb isotopic compositions, and fluid inclusion (FI) analyses including petrography, laser Raman, and microthermometry to precisely constrain the timing of ore formation, the origin of ore-forming fluids and materials, as well as the metal precipitation mechanism. Molybdenite Re-Os dating yielded two model ages of 141.2 ± 1.5 and 147.7 ± 1.7 Ma, coeval with the regional Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous molybdenum metallogenesis. The hydrothermal process can be divided into three stages: the quartz–molybdenite(–pyrite) stage, quartz–polymetallic sulfide stage, and quartz–carbonate stage. Four types of FIs were distinguished for quartz, including two-phase liquid-rich (L-type), saline (S-type), CO2-rich (C1-type), and CO2-bearing (C2-type) FIs. Microthermometric data showed that the homogenization temperatures and salinities from the early to late stages were 240–430 °C, 5.0–11.9, and 30.1–50.8 wt% NaCl equiv.; 180–280 °C and 3.0–9.1 wt% NaCl equiv.; and 120–220 °C and 0.2–7.9 wt% NaCl equiv., respectively, suggesting a decreasing trend. H-O isotopic compositions indicate that the ore-forming fluids were initially of magmatic origin with the increasing incorporation of meteoric water. S-Pb isotopic compositions indicate that the ore-forming materials originated from granitic magmas, and the mineralization is genetically related to the ore-bearing granite porphyry stock in the deposit. Fluid immiscibility and fluid–rock interaction are collectively responsible for the massive deposition of molybdenite in stage 1, whereas fluid mixing and immiscibility played a critical role in the deposition of polymetallic sulfide in stage 2.
A Green Cyclic Leaching Process for Low-Grade Pyrolusite via a Recyclable Fe(II) Reductant
Authors: Wang Qiren , Wang Shuai , Ma Xin , Cao Zhanfang , Di Jiakang , Yang Jia , Zhong Hong
Published: September 2023

The low-cost Fe(II) reductants used in the leaching of pyrolusite usually cause high concentrations of iron ions in the leaching solution, which are difficult to treat and recover. Herein, a green cyclic leaching process for pyrolusite with recycling and reusing of Fe(II) reductants was developed. Sodium sulfide was introduced to reduce and precipitate iron ions in the leaching solution. Ep-H diagrams show that Fe3+ can be reduced to Fe2+ by S2− and form a precipitate with the high efficiency of 93.09%. Since the main component of the precipitate was ferrous disulfide with reducibility, it was used as a reducing agent for low-grade manganese oxide ores. A total of 97.96% of the manganese was highly reductively leached by the obtained precipitate of 0.28 g·g−1 ore. Furthermore, the leaching efficiency was almost unchanged after five iterations of cyclic experiments. The cyclic leaching process enables the efficient leaching of manganese and the recycling of iron, which provides a green and economic method for the efficient utilization of low-grade pyrolusite resources.
Application Prospect of Anaerobic Reduction Pathways in Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans for Mine Tailings Disposal: A Review
Authors: Yue Tingting , Yang Yuankun , Li Lunzhen , Su Mingyue , Wang Maosheng , Liao Yucheng , Jia Liang , Chen Shu
Published: September 2023

The accumulation of mine tailings on Earth, generated from the extraction, processing, and utilization of mineral resources, is a serious environmental challenge. The importance of the recovery of valuable elements and rare-earth elements, together with the economic benefits of precious and base metals, is a strong incentive to develop sustainable methods to recover metals from tailings. Currently, researchers are attempting to improve the efficiency of valuable elements and rare-earth elements recovery from tailings using bioleaching, a more sustainable method compared to traditional methods. In this work, we report the research status of the application of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans (At. ferrooxidans) anaerobic reduction in tailings disposal. Recent advances in the anaerobic characteristics of At. ferrooxidans recovery process and technical difficulties are further described. We found that current research has made significant progress in anaerobic recovery. This is of great significance for the development of bioleaching technologies and industrial production of heavy metals in tailings. Finally, based on the perspectives and directions of this review, the present study can act as an important reference for the academic participants involved in this promising field.
A Green Approach to Obtaining Glycerol Carbonate by Urea Glycerolysis Using Carbon-Supported Metal Oxide Catalysts
Authors: Ptaszyńska Karolina , Malaika Anna , Kozigrodzka Klaudia , Kozłowski Mieczysław
Published: September 2023

The results of sustainable and selective synthesis of glycerol carbonate (GC) from urea and glycerol under ambient pressure using carbon-fiber-supported metal oxide catalysts are reported. Carbon fibers (CF) were prepared via a catalytic chemical vapor deposition method (CCVD) using Ni as a catalyst and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as a cheap carbon source. Supported metal oxide catalysts were obtained by an incipient wetness impregnation technique using Zn, Ba, Cr, and Mg nitrates. Finally, the samples were pyrolyzed and oxidized in an air flow. The obtained catalysts (10%MexOy/CFox) were tested in the reaction of urea glycerolysis at 140 °C for 6 h under atmospheric pressure, using an equimolar ratio of reagents and an inert gas flow for NH3 removal. Under the applied conditions, all of the prepared catalysts increased the glycerol conversion and glycerol carbonate yield compared to the blank test, and the best catalytic performance was shown by the CFox-supported ZnO and MgO systems. Screening of the reaction conditions was carried out by applying ZnO/CFox as a catalyst and considering the effect of reaction temperature, molar ratio of reagents, and the mode of the inert gas flow through the reactor on the catalytic process. Finally, a maximum yield of GC of about 40%, together with a selectivity to glycerol carbonate of ~100%, was obtained within 6 h of reaction at 140 °C using a glycerol-to-urea molar ratio of 1:1 while flowing Ar through the reaction mixture. Furthermore, a positive heterogeneous catalytic effect of the CFox support on the process was noticed.
Strain versus Tunable Terahertz Nanogap Width: A Simple Formula and a Trench below
Authors: Kim Hwanhee , Haddadi Moghaddam Mahsa , Wang Zhihao , Kim Sunghwan , Lee Dukhyung , Yang Hyosim , Jee Myongsoo , Park Daehwan , Kim Dai-Sik
Published: September 2023

A flexible zerogap metallic structure is periodically formed, healing metal cracks on a flexible substrate. Zerogap is continuously tunable from nearly zero to one hundred nanometers by applying compressive strains on the flexible substrate. However, there have been few studies on how the gap width is related to the strain and periodicity, nor the mechanism of tunability itself. Here, based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements, we found that 200 nm-deep nano-trenches are periodically generated on the polymer substrate below the zerogap owing to the strain singularities extant between the first and the second metallic deposition layers. Terahertz and visible transmission properties are consistent with this picture whereby the outer-bending polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate controls the gap size linearly with the inverse of the radius of the curvature.
Prevalence of Undernutrition in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in The Netherlands: Application of the SNAQ65+ Screening Tool and GLIM Consensus Criteria
Authors: Zügül Yaren , van Rossum Caroline , Visser Marjolein
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to provide recent data on the prevalence of undernutrition based on screening and diagnosis in Dutch community-dwelling older adults. The data from the 2021 to 2022 examination wave from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (n = 1138) and the Dutch National Food Consumption Survey 2019–2021 (n = 607) on community-dwelling men and women aged 65 years and older were used. The prevalence of undernutrition was based on a positive score on the Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire 65+ (SNAQ65+) screening tool, a positive diagnosis using the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria and their combination. Of the combined sample (n = 1745), the mean age was 74 (SD 6) years, where 16.7% were aged 80 years or older, 50.5% was female, 56.9% had a high education level, and 30.3% lived alone. The prevalence of undernutrition based on the SNAQ65+ screening in the combined sample was 8.5% (95% CI 7.3–9.9%). In the subgroup of LASA participants with complete data on all GLIM criteria (n = 700), the prevalence of undernutrition was 5.4% based on SNAQ65+ and 7.1% based on GLIM. A positive SNAQ65+ screening followed by a positive GLIM diagnosis resulted in a lower prevalence (3.1%). Being female, older, living alone, receiving formal home care, and having poor self-rated health, poor appetite, or mobility limitations, they were all associated with a higher prevalence, with more than two-fold higher prevalence rates in some subgroups. The results show that currently one out of twelve community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older is undernourished based on the SNAQ65+ screening, and one out of fourteen is undernourished based on the GLIM diagnosis criteria. Awareness is needed to increase early recognition and treatment in community and primary care, especially among the more vulnerable groups.
The Association between Food Security Status and the Home Food Environment among a Sample of Rural South Carolina Residents
Authors: Hossfeld Cassius , Rennert Lior , Baxter Samuel L. K. , Griffin Sarah F. , Parisi Michelle
Published: September 2023

Prior research suggests that food security status may have an effect on the home food environment. Further, the literature suggests that food access factors may function to influence said relationship. The purpose of this research is to fill a gap in the literature on this relationship, as well as to identify potential food access effect modifiers. This research employs linear mixed effects modeling with a random intercept variable (zip codes). Eleven food access variables are included in regression analyses and are tested as potential effect modifiers in the association between food security status and the home food environment. Food security status is significantly associated with the home food environment (95% CI = 0.1–1.38) in the unadjusted model. In the adjusted model, food pantry usage is found to be a significant effect modifier on the association between food security status and the home food environment. This research concludes that food security status has a significant but disparate effect on the home food environment depending on participant food pantry usage. Practical implications from this research would be for relevant stakeholders to potentially improve rural food pantry access in order to increase the home food environment among rural and food insecure populations.
Beyond Ion Homeostasis: Hypomagnesemia, Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin Channel 7, Mitochondrial Function, and Inflammation
Authors: Liu Man , Dudley Samuel C.
Published: September 2023

As the second most abundant intracellular divalent cation, magnesium (Mg2+) is essential for cell functions, such as ATP production, protein/DNA synthesis, protein activity, and mitochondrial function. Mg2+ plays a critical role in heart rhythm, muscle contraction, and blood pressure. A significant decline in Mg2+ intake has been reported in developed countries because of the increased consumption of processed food and filtered/deionized water, which can lead to hypomagnesemia (HypoMg). HypoMg is commonly observed in cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure, hypertension, arrhythmias, and diabetic cardiomyopathy, and HypoMg is a predictor for cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. On the other hand, Mg2+ supplementation has shown significant therapeutic effects in cardiovascular diseases. Some of the effects of HypoMg have been ascribed to changes in Mg2+ participation in enzyme activity, ATP stabilization, enzyme kinetics, and alterations in Ca2+, Na+, and other cations. In this manuscript, we discuss new insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of HypoMg that surpass previously described effects. HypoMg causes mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Many of these effects can be attributed to the HypoMg-induced upregulation of a Mg2+ transporter transient receptor potential melastatin 7 channel (TRMP7) that is also a kinase. An increase in kinase signaling mediated by HypoMg-induced TRPM7 transcriptional upregulation, independently of any change in Mg2+ transport function, likely seems responsible for many of the effects of HypoMg. Therefore, Mg2+ supplementation and TRPM7 kinase inhibition may work to treat the sequelae of HypoMg by preventing increased TRPM7 kinase activity rather than just altering ion homeostasis. Since many diseases are characterized by oxidative stress or inflammation, Mg2+ supplementation and TRPM7 kinase inhibition may have wider implications for other diseases by acting to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
The Dark Side of Energy Drinks: A Comprehensive Review of Their Impact on the Human Body
Authors: Costantino Andrea , Maiese Aniello , Lazzari Julia , Casula Chiara , Turillazzi Emanuela , Frati Paola , Fineschi Vittorio
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the consumption of energy drinks by young adults and athletes has risen significantly, but concerns have been raised about the potential health risks associated with excessive consumption. These concerns include cardiovascular problems, nervous system disorders, and the potential for addiction. This review aims to examine the reported effects of acute or chronic abuse of energy drinks on human health. The analysis shows a significant prevalence of adverse effects, particularly on the cardiovascular and neurovegetative systems. In particular, the analysis identified nine cases of cardiac arrest, three of which were fatal. The aetiology of these adverse effects is attributed to the inherent neurostimulant properties of these beverages, of which caffeine is the predominant component. A comparison of documented effects in humans with experimental studies in animal models showed an overlap in results. This review highlights the need for greater rigour in the assessment of sudden cardiac death, particularly in young people, as legal substances such as energy drinks may be involved. We propose stricter limits on the consumption of these beverages than for caffeine, based on the evidence found and the data in the literature. This review also calls for the establishment of regulations governing the consumption of these products in view of their potential impact on human health.
Oral Nutritional Supplements Reduce Body Weight Loss after Gastrectomy in Patients with Gastric Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Choi Mijoo , Kim Jong-Yeup , Kang Hyun-Hi , Park Eunju , Shim Sung Ryul
Published: September 2023

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize the effects of oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) on body weight loss (BWL) after gastrectomy. A systematic search was conducted across the PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases through May 2023. The study inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) studies on interventions including ONSs after gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer; (2) studies in which comparisons were specified according to standard, regular, or usual postoperative diets; and (3) randomized controlled trial studies including outcomes measured as mean differences in BWL. The data were pooled using the random-effects model and expressed as mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Based on data from seven studies including 1743 patients (891 for ONSs and 852 for the control), the overall pooled mean difference was 0.848 (95% CI: 0.466 to 1.230) and the Higgins I2 value was 86.0%. This systematic review and meta-analysis is the first study to show that ONSs are significantly associated with reducing BWL, compared with standard diets, after gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer. Furthermore, we found that ONSs were more effective in patients with lower nutritional kilocalorie intake after gastrectomy.
Biological Properties and Antimicrobial Potential of Cocoa and Its Effects on Systemic and Oral Health
Authors: Fideles Simone Ortiz Moura , Ortiz Adriana de Cássia , Reis Carlos Henrique Bertoni , Buchaim Daniela Vieira , Buchaim Rogério Leone
Published: September 2023

Cocoa is considered a functional food because it is a natural source of macro- and micronutrients. Thus, cocoa is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, fatty acids, methylxanthines and flavonoids. In addition to favoring the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates, the bioactive components of cocoa can have an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effect, providing numerous benefits for health. This literature review presents an overview of the effects of cocoa, fruit of the Theobroma cacao tree, on systemic and oral health. Several studies report that cocoa intake may contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, immunological, inflammatory, metabolic and bone diseases, in addition to reducing the risk of vascular alterations and cognitive dysfunctions. On oral health, in vitro studies have shown that cocoa extract exerted an inhibitory effect on the growth, adherence and metabolism of cariogenic and periodontopathogenic bacteria, also inhibiting acid production, glycosyltransferase enzyme activity and the synthesis of insoluble polysaccharides. Additionally, administration of cocoa extract reduced biofilm accumulation and caries development in animals infected with cariogenic species. Clinical studies also reported that the use of mouthwashes containing cocoa extract reduced Streptococcus mutans counts in saliva and dental biofilm formation. In short, these studies highlight the nutritional value of cocoa, considering its clinical applicability, stability and economic accessibility.
Validity and Reproducibility of Food Group-Based Food Frequency Questionnaires in Assessing Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption Habits among Chinese Middle-School Students
Authors: Yi Junyao , Song Guoye , Lin Zhenghao , Peng Yuting , Wu Jieshu
Published: September 2023

Assessing the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is crucial for reducing obesity; however, a simple but relatively accurate method for determining added sugar consumption among school adolescents is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility and validity of a food group-based food frequency questionnaire (FG-FFQ) for SSBs in assessing SSB consumption and added sugar among middle-school students. A total of 242 school students completed the FG-FFQs twice and four discontinuous 24-h dietary records (24HDR) over a three-month period. A weighted average approach was used to obtain the average sugar content in the sugary drink food group (FG). Correlation coefficient, weighted kappa statistic, misclassification analysis, and Bland–Altman plot were used to evaluate the validity and reproducibility of the FG-FFQ. Linear regression was utilized to obtain the calibration formulas. The average content of added sugar in sugary drink FG was 8.1 g/100 mL. SSB consumption frequency, consumption amount, and added sugar had correlation coefficients of 0.81, 0.87, and 0.87, respectively, in the validity analysis (p < 0.05). The majority of scatter plots were covered by 95% confidence intervals in the Bland–Altman bias analysis. The intra-class correlation coefficient of SSB consumption frequency and Spearman correlation coefficient of SSB consumption amount and added sugar were 0.74, 0.81, and 0.90, respectively, in the reproducibility analysis (p < 0.05). Results produced by the FG-FFQ calibration formula were more comparable to 24HDR. The FG-FFQ for SSB consumption showed acceptable validity and reproducibility, making it a viable instrument for epidemiological studies on sugary drinks in adolescents.
Impact of COVID-19 on Lifestyle Habits and Emotional State of Childhood Cancer Survivors and Their Parents
Authors: Yardeni Maya , Shaked Omer Zvi , Pienik Reut , Ben-Ami Michal , Stern Eve , Golan Hana , Waldman Dalia , Gothelf Doron , Modan-Moses Dalit
Published: September 2023

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic and associated social distancing measures affected the physical and emotional state of children and parents worldwide. Survivors of childhood cancer may be particularly vulnerable to these effects. We aimed to evaluate the lifestyle habits and emotional states of childhood cancer survivors and their parents during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: Lifestyle habits and emotional distress were assessed in 43 childhood cancer survivors (aged 8–21 years) and their parents before and during the COVID-19 lockdown, using the PROMIS anxiety and depression modules and the “Mabat Youth” questionnaire. Results: Most parents (80.5%) reported eating more family meals during home confinement compared to their usual routine. Patients’ physical activity levels did not change significantly during confinement, leisure-related screen time nearly doubled (p < 0.001), and sleep duration increased (p = 0.006). Anxiety levels of children (p = 0.045) and parents (p = 0.02) increased during confinement compared to pre-pandemic levels, with no significant changes in depression levels. Conclusions: Contrary to concerns regarding lifestyle habits during the COVID-19 lockdown, eating behaviors of childhood cancer survivors improved, sleep duration increased, and physical activity remained unchanged. Still, screen time increased significantly. Parents of childhood cancer survivors reported higher anxiety levels for themselves and their children during home confinement. Our findings may assist medical and psycho-social teams in guiding parents of cancer survivors during similar circumstances in the future.
Development of Nursing Research in Saudi Arabia: Implications for Policies and Practice
Authors: Aboshaiqah Ahmad , Alammar Kamila , Alenezi Ali , Majrashi Bandar , Alshamlani Yousef , Alshehari Abdullah , Alanazi Naif H.
Published: September 2023

Background: Nursing research in Saudi Arabia can be evaluated based on productivity as well as the quality of publications. The scope of scientific inquiry in nursing research expands to include clinical, health system, and outcome-based research, education, and administration. Aim: The purpose of this article is to track the development of nursing research in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Design: Systematic review. Methods: This study used keywords, databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PubMed to search for published articles on nursing in Saudi Arabia. The search resulted in the identification of 681 publications, from which 360 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Results: The highest percentage of studies (56.7% of articles) focused on nursing clinical practice, and 76.0% of the studies were conducted in a hospital setting, followed by an educational setting. Most of the studies were quantitative and non-funded. More than 50.0% of the studies were first authored by Saudi scholars. Conclusions: This study concluded that nursing research in Saudi Arabia is still in its infancy, with notable improvements in the last 5 years. This correlated with an increasing number of nurses holding postgraduate degrees. With the Saudi government’s strong support, the number of scientific research papers published on Saudi nursing has steadily increased over the last year.
Unraveling MYC’s Role in Orchestrating Tumor Intrinsic and Tumor Microenvironment Interactions Driving Tumorigenesis and Drug Resistance
Authors: Doha Zinab O. , Sears Rosalie C.
Published: September 2023

The transcription factor MYC plays a pivotal role in regulating various cellular processes and has been implicated in tumorigenesis across multiple cancer types. MYC has emerged as a master regulator governing tumor intrinsic and tumor microenvironment interactions, supporting tumor progression and driving drug resistance. This review paper aims to provide an overview and discussion of the intricate mechanisms through which MYC influences tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance in cancer. We delve into the signaling pathways and molecular networks orchestrated by MYC in the context of tumor intrinsic characteristics, such as proliferation, replication stress and DNA repair. Furthermore, we explore the impact of MYC on the tumor microenvironment, including immune evasion, angiogenesis and cancer-associated fibroblast remodeling. Understanding MYC’s multifaceted role in driving drug resistance and tumor progression is crucial for developing targeted therapies and combination treatments that may effectively combat this devastating disease. Through an analysis of the current literature, this review’s goal is to shed light on the complexities of MYC-driven oncogenesis and its potential as a promising therapeutic target.
Aloe-Emodin Derivative, an Anthraquinone Compound, Attenuates Pyroptosis by Targeting NLRP3 Inflammasome in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hu Yingying , Zhang Shuqian , Lou Han , Mikaye Monayo Seth , Xu Run , Meng Ziyu , Du Menghan , Tang Pingping , Chen Zhouxiu , Chen Yongchao , Liu Xin , Du Zhimin , Zhang Yong
Published: September 2023

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is widely recognized as a major contributing factor to the development of heart failure in patients with diabetes. Previous studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of traditional herbal medicine for alleviating the symptoms of cardiomyopathy. We have chemically designed and synthesized a novel compound called aloe-emodin derivative (AED), which belongs to the aloe-emodin (AE) family of compounds. AED was formed by covalent binding of monomethyl succinate to the anthraquinone mother nucleus of AE using chemical synthesis techniques. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of AED in treating DCM. We induced type 2 diabetes in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats by administering a high-fat diet and streptozotocin (STZ) injections. The rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, DCM, AED low concentration (50 mg/kg/day), AED high concentration (100 mg/kg/day), AE (100 mg/kg/day), and positive control (glyburide, 2 mg/kg/day) groups. There were eight rats in each group. The rats that attained fasting blood glucose of ˃16.7 mmol/L were considered successful models. We observed significant improvements in cardiac function in the DCM rats with both AED and AE following four weeks of intragastric treatment. However, AED had a more pronounced therapeutic effect on DCM compared to AE. AED exhibited an inhibitory effect on the inflammatory response in the hearts of DCM rats and high-glucose-treated H9C2 cells by suppressing the pyroptosis pathway mediated by the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of differentially expressed genes showed a significant enrichment in the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway compared to the high-glucose group. Furthermore, overexpression of NLRP3 effectively reversed the anti-pyroptosis effects of AED in high-glucose-treated H9C2 cells. This study is the first to demonstrate that AED possesses the ability to inhibit myocardial pyroptosis in DCM. Targeting the pyroptosis pathway mediated by the NLRP3 inflammasome could provide a promising therapeutic strategy to enhance our understanding and treatment of DCM.
The Effects of CYP2C19 Genotype on Proxies of SSRI Antidepressant Response in the UK Biobank
Authors: Wong Win Lee Edwin , Fabbri Chiara , Laplace Benjamin , Li Danyang , van Westrhenen Roos , Lewis Cathryn M. , Dawe Gavin Stewart , Young Allan H.
Published: September 2023

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly used psychopharmaceutical treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), but individual responses to SSRIs vary greatly. CYP2C19 is a key enzyme involved in the metabolism of several drugs, including SSRIs. Variations in the CYP2C19 gene are associated with differential metabolic activity, and thus differential SSRI exposure; accordingly, the CYP2C19 genotype may affect the therapeutic response and clinical outcomes, though existing evidence of this link is not entirely consistent. Therefore, we analysed data from the UK Biobank, a large, deeply phenotyped prospective study, to investigate the effects of CYP2C19 metaboliser phenotypes on several clinical outcomes derived from primary care records, including multiple measures of antidepressant switching, discontinuation, duration, and side effects. In this dataset, 24,729 individuals were prescribed citalopram, 3012 individuals were prescribed escitalopram, and 12,544 individuals were prescribed sertraline. Consistent with pharmacological expectations, CYP2C19 poor metabolisers on escitalopram were more likely to switch antidepressants, have side effects following first prescription, and be on escitalopram for a shorter duration compared to normal metabolisers. CYP2C19 poor and intermediate metabolisers on citalopram also exhibited increased odds of discontinuation and shorter durations relative to normal metabolisers. Generally, no associations were found between metabolic phenotypes and proxies of response to sertraline. Sensitivity analyses in a depression subgroup and metabolic activity scores corroborated results from the primary analysis. In summary, our findings suggest that CYP2C19 genotypes, and thus metabolic phenotypes, may have utility in determining clinical responses to SSRIs, particularly escitalopram and citalopram, though further investigation of such a relationship is warranted.
Local Energy Velocity of the Air-Core Modes in Hollow-Core Fibers
Authors: Pryamikov Andrey
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we consider the behavior of the local energy flow velocity of the fundamental air-core mode at the core-cladding boundary in two types of hollow-core fibers: hollow-core fibers with a negative curvature of the core boundary and single-capillary fibers with similar geometrical parameters. It is demonstrated that the behavior of both axial and radial components of the local energy velocity of the fundamental air-core mode is completely different for these two types of hollow-core fibers. The negative curvature of the core boundary leads to an alternating behavior of the radial projection of the local energy velocity and a decrease of two orders of magnitude compared to the values of this projection for a single capillary. In our opinion, this behavior of the local energy velocity of the fundamental air-core mode is caused by a periodic set of Poynting vector vortices that appear in the cladding capillary walls.
Using Thermomechanical Properties to Reassess Particles’ Dispersion in Nanostructured Polymers: Size vs. Content
Authors: Boaretto Joel , Cruz Robinson Carlos Dudley , Vannucchi de Camargo Felipe , Cordeiro Guilherme Luís , Fragassa Cristiano , Bergmann Carlos Pérez
Published: September 2023

Nanoparticle-filled polymers (i.e., nanocomposites) can exhibit characteristics unattainable by the unfilled polymer, making them attractive to engineer structural composites. However, the transition of particulate fillers from the micron to the nanoscale requires a comprehensive understanding of how particle downsizing influences molecular interactions and organization across multiple length scales, ranging from chemical bonding to microstructural evolution. This work outlines the advancements described in the literature that have become relevant and have shaped today’s understanding of the processing–structure–property relationships in polymer nanocomposites. The main inorganic and organic particles that have been incorporated into polymers are examined first. The commonly practiced methods for nanoparticle incorporation are then highlighted. The development in mechanical properties—such as tensile strength, storage modulus and glass transition temperature—in the selected epoxy matrix nanocomposites described in the literature was specifically reviewed and discussed. The significant effect of particle content, dispersion, size, and mean free path on thermomechanical properties, commonly expressed as a function of weight percentage (wt.%) of added particles, was found to be better explained as a function of particle crowding (number of particles and distance among them). From this work, it was possible to conclude that the dramatic effect of particle size for the same tiny amount of very small and well-dispersed particles brings evidence that particle size and the particle weight content should be downscaled together.
Unlocking the Potential of Molecularly Imprinted Polydopamine in Sensing Applications
Authors: Lamaoui Abderrahman , Lahcen Abdellatif Ait , Amine Aziz
Published: September 2023

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are synthetic receptors that mimic the specificity of biological antibody–antigen interactions. By using a “lock and key” process, MIPs selectively bind to target molecules that were used as templates during polymerization. While MIPs are typically prepared using conventional monomers, such as methacrylic acid and acrylamide, contemporary advancements have pivoted towards the functional potential of dopamine as a novel monomer. The overreaching goal of the proposed review is to fully unlock the potential of molecularly imprinted polydopamine (MIPda) within the realm of cutting-edge sensing applications. This review embarks by shedding light on the intricate tapestry of materials harnessed in the meticulous crafting of MIPda, endowing them with tailored properties. Moreover, we will cover the diverse sensing applications of MIPda, including its use in the detection of ions, small molecules, epitopes, proteins, viruses, and bacteria. In addition, the main synthesis methods of MIPda, including self-polymerization and electropolymerization, will be thoroughly examined. Finally, we will examine the challenges and drawbacks associated with this research field, as well as the prospects for future developments. In its entirety, this review stands as a resolute guiding compass, illuminating the path for researchers and connoisseurs alike.
In Vitro Degradation of 3D-Printed Poly(L-lactide-Co-Glycolic Acid) Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Ghosh Dastidar Anushree , Clarke Susan A , Larrañeta Eneko , Buchanan Fraser , Manda Krishna
Published: September 2023

The creation of scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering has faced significant challenges in developing constructs that can provide sufficient biomechanical support and offer suitable degradation characteristics. Ideally, such tissue-engineering techniques necessitate the fabrication of scaffolds that mirror the mechanical characteristics of the articular cartilage while degrading safely without damaging the regenerating tissues. The aim of this study was to create porous, biomechanically comparable 3D-printed scaffolds made from Poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) 85:15 and to assess their degradation at physiological conditions 37 °C in pH 7.4 phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for up to 56 days. Furthermore, the effect of scaffold degradation on the cell viability and proliferation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (HBMSC) was evaluated in vitro. To assess the long-term degradation of the scaffolds, accelerated degradation tests were performed at an elevated temperature of 47 °C for 28 days. The results show that the fabricated scaffolds were porous with an interconnected architecture and had comparable biomechanical properties to native cartilage. The degradative changes indicated stable degradation at physiological conditions with no significant effect on the properties of the scaffold and biocompatibility of the scaffold to HBMSC. Furthermore, the accelerated degradation tests showed consistent degradation of the scaffolds even in the long term without the notable release of acidic byproducts. It is hoped that the fabrication and degradation characteristics of this scaffold will, in the future, translate into a potential medical device for cartilage tissue regeneration.
Post-Cracking Properties of Concrete Reinforced with Polypropylene Fibers through the Barcelona Test
Authors: Del Savio Alexandre Almeida , La Torre Esquivel Darwin , García Landeo Joaquín M.
Published: September 2023

The Barcelona method was developed as an alternative to other tests for assessing the post-cracking behavior of fiber-reinforced concrete, with the main advantage being that it uses significantly smaller specimens compared to other methods. For this reason, it can provide a solution for characterizing concrete in hard-to-reach constructions such as roads and tunnels. On the other hand, polypropylene (PP) fibers have gained increased attention in recent years within the scientific community due to their high tensile strength and cost-effectiveness. This research aimed to understand the influence of PP fiber volume, slenderness (l/d), and reinforcement index on post-cracking properties of concrete, including toughness and residual strength (f_res), using the Barcelona method. Three fiber volumes, 0.4%, 0.8%, and 1.2%, and three slenderness ratios, 46.5, 58.1, and 69.8, were employed in normal-strength concrete. In addition to the reference mixture without fibers, 10 mixtures were prepared with 10 specimens each, resulting in a total of 100 specimens. Pearson’s hypothesis test was employed to determine the existence of correlations between variables, followed by scatter plots to generate predictive equations between post-cracking properties and fiber attributes. The results indicated no direct correlation between fiber slenderness and post-cracking properties. Regarding fiber volume, there was a correlation with residual strength but not with toughness. However, the combined effect of volume and slenderness, the reinforcement index, correlates with the post-cracking properties of concrete. Finally, four predictive equations for toughness and residual strength were derived based on the reinforcement index. These equations can prove valuable for designing structures made of polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete.
One-Dimensional Croconate-Based Fe-CP as a High-Performance Anode Material for Lithium–Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhang Xiaofei , Gui Yingcai
Published: September 2023

Coordination polymers (CPs) have attracted greater scientific attention as promising electrode materials for lithium–ion batteries (LIBs) due to their diverse and versatile structural chemistry. This study introduces a croconate-based one-dimensional CP, namely [Fe(C5O5)(H2O)3]n) (referred to as Fe-CP), as an efficient anode material with high-performance characteristics for rechargeable LIBs. The ligand with abundant redox sites coordinating to the transition metal ion endowed the anode material with a remarkable stability in the electrolyte, in addition to high capacity, high-rate capability, and high cycling performance during charging/discharging process. The Fe-CP has a unique chain-based supramolecular structure, setting it apart from other porous three-dimensional molecular materials. The presence of unrestricted channels between the chains facilitates the diffusion of lithium ions in this unique structure. When tested at 100 mA g−1 over a range of voltages between 0.01 and 2.4 V, the Fe-CP anode demonstrated a noteworthy specific capacity of 521 mA h g−1 over 140 cycles. Moreover, the Fe-CP anode material exhibited excellent rate performance and demonstrated favorable cyclability. Following exposure to high charging and discharging rates of 2 A g−1, the anode ultimately regained its initial capability when the current rate was back at 100 mA g−1.
Effectiveness of the Use of Polymers in High-Performance Concrete Containing Silica Fume
Authors: Harichane Alya , Seghir Nadhir Toubal , Niewiadomski Paweł , Sadowski Łukasz , Cisiński Michał
Published: September 2023

The incorporation of polycarboxylate ether superplasticizer (PCE)-type polymers and silica fume (SF) in high-performance concretes (HPC) leads to remarkable rheological and mechanical improvements. In the fresh state, PCEs are adsorbed on cement particles and dispersants, promoting the workability of the concrete. Silica fume enables very well-compacted concrete to be obtained, which is characterized by high mechanical parameters in its hardened state. Some PCEs are incompatible with silica fume, which can result in slump loss and poor rheological behavior. The main objective of this research is to study the influence of three types of PCEs, which all have different molecular architectures, on the rheological and mechanical behavior of high-performance concretes containing 10% SF as a partial replacement of cement. The results show that the carboxylic density of PCE has an influence on its compatibility with SF.
Personal Identity and Uncertainty in the Everett Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Lu Zhonghao
Published: September 2023

The deterministic nature of EQM (the Everett Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics) seems to be inconsistent with the use of probability in EQM, giving rise to what is known as the “incoherence problem”. In this paper, I explore approaches to solve the incoherence problem of EQM via pre-measurement uncertainty. Previous discussions on the validity of pre-measurement uncertainty have leaned heavily on intricate aspects of the theory of semantics and reference, the embrace of either four-dimensionalism or three-dimensionalism of personhood, or the ontology of EQM. In this paper, I argue that, regardless of the adoption of three-dimensionalism or four-dimensionalism of personhood, the overlapping view or the divergence view of the ontology of EQM, the pre-measurement uncertainty approach to the incoherence problem of EQM can only achive success while contradicting fundamental principles of physicalism. I also use the divergence view of EQM as an example to illustrate my analyses.
Early and Transient Formation of Highly Acidic pH Spikes in Water Radiolysis under the Combined Effect of High Dose Rate and High Linear Energy Transfer
Authors: Bepari Md Ibrahim , Meesungnoen Jintana , Jay-Gerin Jean-Paul
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Water radiolysis leads to the formation of hydronium ions H3O+ in less than 50 fs, resulting in the formation of transient acidic pH spikes in the irradiated water. The purpose of this study is to examine the time evolution of these spikes of acidity under irradiation conditions combining both high absorbed dose rate and high-LET radiation. (2) Methods: The early space–time history of the distributions of the various reactive species was obtained using our Monte Carlo multitrack chemistry simulation code IONLYS-IRT. To simulate different LETs, we used incident protons of varying energies as radiation sources. The “instantaneous pulse” (or Dirac) model was used to investigate the effect of dose rate. (3) Results: One major finding is that the combination of high dose rates and high LETs is clearly additive, with a very significant impact on the pH of the solution. For example, at 1 ns and for a dose rate of ~107 Gy/s, the pH drops from ~4.7 to 2.7 as the LET increases from ~0.3 to 60 keV/μm. (4) Conclusions: Confirming previous work, this purely radiation chemical study raises the question of the possible importance and role of these spikes of acidity in underpinning the physical chemistry and biology of the “FLASH effect”.