bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-Area Perovskite Solar Module Produced by Introducing Self-Assembled L-Histidine Monolayer at TiO2 and Perovskite Interface
Authors: Hsu Hung-Chieh , Tsao Jung-Che , Yeh Cheng-Hsien , Wu Hsuan-Ta , Wu Chien-Te , Wu Shih-Hsiung , Shih Chuan-Feng
Published: August 2024

Perovskite solar cells have been proven to enhance cell characteristics by introducing passivation materials that suppress defect formation. Defect states between the electron transport layer and the absorption layer reduce electron extraction and carrier transport capabilities, leading to a significant decline in device performance and stability, as well as an increased probability of non-radiative recombination. This study proposes the use of an amino acid (L-Histidine) self-assembled monolayer material between the transport layer and the perovskite absorption layer. Surface analysis revealed that the introduction of L-Histidine improved both the uniformity and roughness of the perovskite film surface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis showed a reduction in oxygen vacancies in the lattice and an increase in Ti4+, indicating that L-Histidine successfully passivated trap states at the perovskite and TiO2 electron transport layer interface. In terms of device performance, the introduction of L-Histidine significantly improved the fill factor (FF) because the reduction in interface defects could suppress charge accumulation and reduce device hysteresis. The FF of large-area solar modules (25 cm2) with L-Histidine increased from 55% to 73%, and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) reached 16.5%. After 500 h of aging tests, the PCE still maintained 91% of its original efficiency. This study demonstrates the significant impact of L-Histidine on transport properties and showcases its potential for application in the development of large-area perovskite module processes.
A Methodology to Manage and Correlate Results of Non-Destructive and Destructive Tests on Ancient Timber Beams: The Case of Montorio Tower
Authors: Marzo Anna , Carpani Bruno , Marghella Giuseppe , Tripepi Concetta
Published: August 2024

Intending to safeguard architectural heritage, the assessment of the health of timber structures is crucial, though challenging, due to the organic nature of wood and to the uncertainties of its preservation state. To this end, useful support is provided by the ICOMOS guidelines, which provide conservation strategies based on thorough diagnosis and safety evaluations. In this context, the study summarized in this paper focuses on the medieval Tower of Montorio, which suffered considerable damage due to the strong earthquake that occurred in those area in September 2003. Its subsequent process of rehabilitation and restoration involved a widespread experimental campaign and the substitution of some timber beams. This circumstance has offered a rare opportunity to study these ancient elements in detail, although they are limited in number. Six beams made of oak and removed from an intermediate floor of the tower were evaluated through a comprehensive approach that included both non-destructive tests (NDT) and destructive tests (DT). Particularly, they were subjected to visual inspections, ultrasonic, sclerometric, and resistographic methods, and destructive four-point bending tests. Overall, the study presented here provides a useful qualitative comparison between them. Results highlighted that relying only on NDT might lead to an overestimation of mechanical properties and that combining NDT with DT is crucial for a more accurate assessment. Therefore, the need to deepen the research on correlations between NDT and DT to obtain reliable values of mechanical properties while respecting the conservation aim was confirmed.
The Risk of Malnutrition and Sarcopenia in Elderly People Living with HIV during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Thet Daylia , Lappichetpaiboon Sawitee , Trakultritrung Chidchanok , Sotangkur Nongnapas , Phonphithak Supalak , Lwin Hay Mar Su , Apornpong Tanakorn , Han Win Min , Avihingsanon Anchalee , Siritientong Tippawan
Published: August 2024

Malnutrition is a risk factor of sarcopenia in the elderly. During the COVID-19 pandemic, limited transportation and supply chain disruptions restricted access to nutritious foods. We assessed the nutritional status and sarcopenia risk in older people living with HIV (PLWH) on combination antiretroviral therapy in Thailand. This study was a hospital-based cohort among virally suppressed older PLWH who came for routine HIV clinic visits. The mini nutritional assessment (MNA), body composition analysis and 5-time chair stand test (CST) were performed to assess the nutritional status, muscle mass and physical performance, respectively. A total of 177 PLWH were enrolled (57.60% male). The median age was 58 years (IQR 55–62 years). Thirty-five participants (19.8%) were at risk of developing sarcopenia, and 28.2% had abnormal nutritional status. Muscle mass correlated positively with nutritional scores (r = 0.355, p < 0.001) but negatively with 5-time CST duration (r = −0.173, p = 0.021). In the multivariate model, muscle mass was associated with age, sex, mid-arm circumference, calf circumference and 5-time CST duration. In a well-viral-suppressed older Asian PLWH cohort, given the positive correlation between nutritional status and muscle mass, the nutritional status of older PLWH should be routinely evaluated and monitored.
Daily and Weekly “High Doses” of Cholecalciferol for the Prevention and Treatment of Vitamin D Deficiency for Obese or Multi-Morbidity and Multi-Treatment Patients Requiring Multi-Drugs—A Narrative Review
Authors: Pludowski Pawel , Marcinowska-Suchowierska Ewa , Togizbayev Galymzhan , Belaya Zhanna , Grant William B. , Pilz Stefan , Holick Michael F.
Published: August 2024

Daily vitamin D supplementation using higher than normal dosing (up to the upper limit value) and intermittent (once or twice per week) dosing were studied in patients with increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. Using a PubMed database, a thorough search for published randomized controlled trials and other studies was conducted, and the results were analyzed. This review provides an overview of the use of 7000 IU daily, 30,000 IU per week or twice weekly, and 50,000 IU weekly of vitamin D for obtaining and maintaining 25(OH)D concentrations of at least 30 ng/mL in patients at high risk of vitamin D deficiency. The abovementioned dosages should be considered in adults with obesity, liver disease or malabsorption syndromes, or multi-diseased patients, mainly seniors requiring multi-drug treatment, including drugs affecting vitamin D metabolism. The simple schedules of 7000 IU/day, 30,000 IU/week or twice weekly, and 50,000 IU/week for use by patients with an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency were provided for consideration. Without monitoring of 25(OH)D, daily doses of 7000 IU or intermittent doses of 30,000 IU/week should be considered for a prolonged time as prophylactic or maintenance doses, mainly in obese patients, patients with liver disease and patients with malabsorption syndromes. For the treatment of possible vitamin D deficiency without assessment of 25(OH)D in these groups, intermittent doses of 30,000 IU twice weekly or 50,000 IU per week should be considered for a 6–8-week period only. The higher daily doses or the intermittent doses suggested above are effective, safe and responsive based on patient’s preferences.
Oat Beta-Glucan Dietary Intervention on Antioxidant Defense Parameters, Inflammatory Response and Angiotensin Signaling in the Testes of Rats with TNBS-Induced Colitis
Authors: Oczkowski Michał , Dziendzikowska Katarzyna , Pasternak-Winiarska Anna , Jarmołowicz Kuba , Gromadzka-Ostrowska Joanna
Published: August 2024

Male infertility represents a significant public health concern. There is a negative impact of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) on the male reproductive system. The aim of this study was to investigate whether oat beta-glucan (OBG) with different molar mass can modulate parameters of antioxidant defense and inflammatory response in the testes of adult Sprague–Dawley rats with TNBS-induced colitis and whether the OBG intervention can modulate the inflammatory response in association with the RAS system. Results: higher testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) activities and glutathione (GSH) concentration, and lower testosterone (T) level and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, were observed in rats with colitis than in healthy control ones. TNBS-induced colitis resulted in decreased the angiotensin 1–7 (ANG 1–7) level in the testes of rats fed with low-molar mass OBG compared to control animals. Conclusions: although colitis induced moderate pro-oxidant changes in the gonads, it seems plausible that dietary intervention with different fractions of oat beta-glucans mass may support the maintenance of reproductive homeostasis via the stimulation of the local antioxidant defense system.
Nutritional Management and Physical Activity in the Treatment of Sarcopenic Obesity: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Assyov Yavor , Nedeva Iveta , Spassov Borian , Gerganova Antonina , Velikov Toni , Kamenov Zdravko , Velikova Tsvetelina
Published: August 2024

Background: The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity among adults aged ≥65 years is increasing worldwide. It is a condition that describes the concomitant presence of sarcopenia and obesity, but it appears to be associated with greater increases in the risks for disability, morbidity, and mortality than the two conditions combined. The current review aims to summarize the available literature data on the effectiveness of lifestyle modification for the management of this high-risk geriatric syndrome. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, for publications published from January 1950 to June 2024. Results: The detection of early preventive and therapeutic approaches to combat sarcopenic obesity is essential for healthy aging. There is ample evidence that suggests that poor dietary habits and physical inactivity are the main reasons for the development of sarcopenic obesity and should thus be the main targets for intervention. In the absence of effective pharmacological interventions, the best effect on sarcopenic obesity is achieved by combination with proper dietary intervention and regular physical activity according to the individual’s health condition. Conclusions. Further research is needed to discover the most effective strategy for the prevention and treatment of sarcopenic obesity, as well as potential pharmacological options to improve muscle mass and function in older populations with physical restrictions.
Branched-Chain and Aromatic Amino Acids, Type 2 Diabetes, and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors among Puerto Rican Adults
Authors: Rivas-Tumanyan Sona , Pacheco Lorena S. , Haslam Danielle E. , Morou-Bermudez Evangelia , Liang Liming , Tucker Katherine L. , Joshipura Kaumudi J. , Bhupathiraju Shilpa N.
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Branched-chain and aromatic amino acids (BCAAs/AAAs) have been considered as markers of type 2 diabetes (T2D); however, studies on associations between these metabolites and T2D and cardiometabolic traits in Hispanic populations are limited. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between baseline BCAAs (isoleucine, leucine, valine)/AAAs (phenylalanine, tyrosine) and prevalent and incident T2D, as well as baseline and longitudinal (2 year) changes in cardiometabolic traits (measures of glycemia, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and obesity) in two large cohorts of adults of Puerto Rican descent. (2) Methods: We included participants of the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study (BPRHS, n = 670) and San Juan Overweight Adult Longitudinal study (SOALS, n = 999) with available baseline metabolite and covariate data. T2D diagnosis was defined based on American Diabetes Association criteria. Multivariable logistic (for baseline T2D), Poisson (for incident T2D), and linear (for cardiometabolic traits) regression models were used; cohort-specific results were combined in the meta-analysis and adjusted for multiple comparisons. (3) Results: Higher baseline BCAAs were associated with higher odds of prevalent T2D (OR1SD BCAA score = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.34–1.59, p < 0.0001) and higher risk of incident T2D (IRR1SD BCAA score = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.13–1.37, p < 0.0001). In multivariable longitudinal analysis, higher leucine and valine concentrations were associated with 2-year increase in insulin (beta 1SD leucine = 0.37 mcU/mL, 95% CI: 0.11–0.63, p < 0.05; beta 1SD valine = 0.43 mcU/mL, 95% CI: 0.17–0.68, p < 0.01). Tyrosine was a significant predictor of incident T2D (IRR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.09–1.58, p < 0.05), as well as 2 year increases in HOMA-IR (beta 1SD tyrosine = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.04–0.22, p < 0.05) and insulin concentrations (beta 1SD tyrosine = 0.37 mcU/mL, 95% CI: 0.12–0.61, p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Our results confirmed the associations between BCAAs and prevalent and incident T2D, as well as concurrent measures of glycemia, dyslipidemia, and obesity, previously reported in predominantly White and Asian populations. Baseline leucine, valine, and tyrosine were predictors of 2 year increases in insulin, whereas tyrosine was a significant predictor of deteriorating insulin resistance over time. Our study suggests that BCAAs and tyrosine could serve as early markers of future glycemic changes in Puerto Ricans.
The Relationship between Healthy Vascular Aging with the Mediterranean Diet and Other Lifestyles in the Spanish Population: The EVA Study
Authors: Gómez-Sánchez Leticia , González-Falcon David , Llamas-Ramos Rocío , Rodríguez María Cortés , Rodríguez-Sánchez Emiliano , García-Ortiz Luis , Llamas-Ramos Inés , Gómez-Sánchez Marta , Gómez-Marcos Manuel A.
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between healthy vascular aging (HVA) and the Mediterranean diet alongside other lifestyles in a Spanish population aged 35 to 75 years without previous cardiovascular diseases. Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 501 individuals aged 35 to 75 years were recruited from five health centers by random sampling stratified by age and sex (55.90 ± 14.24 years, 49.70% men). HVA was determined in two steps. Step 1: Subjects with vascular damage to the carotid arteries or peripheral arterial disease were classified as non-HVA. Step 2: The study population was classified by age and sex using the percentiles of the vascular aging index (VAI), with VAI ≤p25 considered HVA and >p25 considered non-HVA. The VAI was estimated using the following formula (VAI = (log (1.09) × 10 cIMT + log (1.14) cfPWV) × 39.1 + 4.76. Carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) was measured with the SphygmoCor® device, and carotid intima–media thickness using Sonosite Micromax® ultrasound. Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence, alcohol and tobacco use were recorded through validated questionnaires. Physical activity was assessed with the ActiGraph-GT3X® accelerometer. Results: The mean VAI value was 61.23 ± 12.86 (men—63.47 ± 13.75 and women—59.04 ± 11.54; p < 0.001). HVA was found in 18.9% (men—19.9% and women—17.8%). In the multiple regression analysis after adjusting for possible confounding factors, the mean VAI value showed a positive association with alcohol use (β = 0.020) and sedentary hours per week (β = 0.109) and a negative association with hours of activity per week (β = −0.102) and with the number of healthy lifestyles (β = −0.640). In the logistic regression analysis, after adjusting for possible confounding factors and compared to those classified as non-HVA, subjects classified as HVA were more likely to show MD adherence (OR = 0.571), do more than 26 h per week of physical activity (OR = 1.735), spend under 142 h per week being sedentary (OR = 1.696), and have more than two healthy lifestyles (OR = 1.877). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the more time spent doing physical activity and the less time spent in a sedentary state, the lower the vascular aging index and the greater the likelihood of being classified in the group of subjects with HVA.
Discovery of Curcuminoids as Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitors from Medicine-and-Food Homology Plants
Authors: He Xiao-Qin , Zou Hai-Dan , Liu Yi , Chen Xue-Jiao , Atanasov Atanas G. , Wang Xiao-Li , Xia Yu , Ng Siew Bee , Matin Maima , Wu Ding-Tao , Liu Hong-Yan , Gan Ren-You
Published: August 2024

Researchers are increasingly interested in discovering new pancreatic lipase inhibitors as anti-obesity ingredients. Medicine-and-food homology plants contain a diverse set of natural bioactive compounds with promising development potential. This study screened and identified potent pancreatic lipase inhibitors from 20 commonly consumed medicine-and-food homology plants using affinity ultrafiltration combined with spectroscopy and docking simulations. The results showed that turmeric exhibited the highest pancreatic lipase-inhibitory activity, and curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin were discovered to be potent pancreatic lipase inhibitors within the turmeric extract, with IC50 values of 0.52 ± 0.04, 1.12 ± 0.05, and 3.30 ± 0.08 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, the enzymatic kinetics analyses demonstrated that the inhibition type of the three curcuminoids was the reversible competitive model, and curcumin exhibited a higher binding affinity and greater impact on the secondary structure of pancreatic lipase than found with demethoxycurcumin or bisdemethoxycurcumin, as observed through fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism. Furthermore, docking simulations supported the above experimental findings, and revealed that the three curcuminoids might interact with amino acid residues in the binding pocket of pancreatic lipase through non-covalent actions, such as hydrogen bonding and π-π stacking, thereby inhibiting the pancreatic lipase. Collectively, these findings suggest that the bioactive compounds of turmeric, in particular curcumin, can be promising dietary pancreatic lipase inhibitors for the prevention and management of obesity.
Trajectory Patterns of Macronutrient Intake and Their Associations with Obesity, Diabetes, and All-Cause Mortality: A Longitudinal Analysis over 25 Years
Authors: Huang Jingxian , Rong Rong , Ma Zheng Feei , Chen Ying
Published: August 2024

Over the past decades, China has been undergoing rapid economic growth, which may have significantly influenced the dietary patterns and health status of the Chinese population. Our study aimed to assess the associations of potential macronutrient trajectory patterns with chronic diseases and all-cause mortality using the latent class trajectory model (LCTM) and the longitudinal data of the China Health and Nutrition Survey obtained between 1991 and 2015. A 24-hour diet recall was used to assess the dietary intake. The Poisson regression model was employed to investigate the correlations between trajectory patterns and chronic diseases and all-cause mortality. A total of 8115 participants were included in the final analysis. We explored four and three trajectory patterns for male and female populations, respectively. We found that a decreasing very high-carbohydrate trajectory together with a U-shape protein trajectory was associated with a higher risk of diabetes in the male population (odds ratio (OR): 2.23; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.31–3.77). A similar pattern for moderate protein intake was also associated with the risk of diabetes in the female population (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.18–2.79). In addition, we show that a decreasing low-carbohydrate trajectory and an increasing high-fat trajectory were associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.60–0.96) and a higher risk of obesity (OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.05–1.47) in males. Our results shed light on some salient nutritional problems in China, particularly the dual challenges of undernutrition and overnutrition.
Nature of the Association between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cervical Cancer and Its Potential Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Gusakov Kirill , Kalinkovich Alexander , Ashkenazi Shai , Livshits Gregory
Published: August 2024

It is now established that patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an increased risk of developing cervical cancer (CC) or its precursor, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). However, the underlying mechanisms of this association have not been elucidated. RA is characterized by unresolved chronic inflammation. It is suggested that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in RA patients exacerbates inflammation, increasing the risk of CC. The tumor microenvironment in RA patients with CC is also marked by chronic inflammation, which aggravates the manifestations of both conditions. Gut and vaginal dysbiosis are also considered potential mechanisms that contribute to the chronic inflammation and aggravation of RA and CC manifestations. Numerous clinical and pre-clinical studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of various nutritional approaches to attenuate chronic inflammation, including polyunsaturated fatty acids and their derivatives, specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), probiotics, prebiotics, and certain diets. We believe that successful resolution of chronic inflammation and correction of dysbiosis, in combination with current anti-RA and anti-CC therapies, is a promising therapeutic approach for RA and CC. This approach could also reduce the risk of CC development in HPV-infected RA patients.
The ORIGINS Project: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Nutrition Profile of Pregnant Women in a Longitudinal Birth Cohort
Authors: Pannu Poonam K. , Scherini Alexander J. J. , Silva Desiree T. , Whalan Sarah
Published: August 2024

Pregnancy is an opportunistic time for dietary intake to influence future disease susceptibility in offspring later in life. The ORIGINS Project was established to identify the factors that contribute to ‘a healthy start to life’ through a focus supporting childhood health and preventing disease (including non-communicable diseases). We aim to describe the dietary intakes of pregnant women in this cohort and to compare these to the Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs) and Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS). The usual food and nutrient intakes of women were collected using the Australian Eating Survey (AES), a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). A total of 374 women completed the AES FFQ at both 20 weeks and 36 weeks of gestation between December 2016 and January 2023. Macronutrient, micronutrient, and food group intake were explored using descriptive statistics. Overall, it was found that the energy contribution from carbohydrates was low, while that from fat and saturated fat was high; participants were not meeting the recommendations for several key micronutrients (calcium, iron, iodine, and folate); and they had low diet quality scores for all food groups. These findings suggest that despite the ongoing promotion of healthy eating during pregnancy, further exploration into why dietary guidelines during pregnancy are not being adhered to is warranted.
Evaluating the Quality and Comparative Validity of Manual Food Logging and Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Food Image Recognition in Apps for Nutrition Care
Authors: Li Xinyi , Yin Annabelle , Choi Ha Young , Chan Virginia , Allman-Farinelli Margaret , Chen Juliana
Published: August 2024

For artificial intelligence (AI) to support nutrition care, high quality and accuracy of its features within smartphone applications (apps) are essential. This study evaluated popular apps’ features, quality, behaviour change potential, and comparative validity of dietary assessment via manual logging and AI. The top 200 free and paid nutrition-related apps from Australia’s Apple App and Google Play stores were screened (n = 800). Apps were assessed using MARS (quality) and ABACUS (behaviour change potential). Nutritional outputs from manual food logging and AI-enabled food-image recognition apps were compared with food records for Western, Asian, and Recommended diets. Among 18 apps, Noom scored highest on MARS (mean = 4.44) and ABACUS (21/21). From 16 manual food-logging apps, energy was overestimated for Western (mean: 1040 kJ) but underestimated for Asian (mean: −1520 kJ) diets. MyFitnessPal and Fastic had the highest accuracy (97% and 92%, respectively) out of seven AI-enabled food image recognition apps. Apps with more AI integration demonstrated better functionality, but automatic energy estimations from AI-enabled food image recognition were inaccurate. To enhance the integration of apps into nutrition care, collaborating with dietitians is essential for improving their credibility and comparative validity by expanding food databases. Moreover, training AI models are needed to improve AI-enabled food recognition, especially for mixed dishes and culturally diverse foods.
Operational Mapping of Submarine Groundwater Discharge into Coral Reefs: Application to West Hawai‘i Island
Authors: Asner Gregory P. , Vaughn Nicholas R. , Heckler Joseph
Published: August 2024

Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) is a recognized contributor to the hydrological and biogeochemical functioning of coral reef ecosystems located along coastlines. However, the distribution, size, and thermal properties of SGD remain poorly understood at most land–reef margins. We developed, deployed, and demonstrated an operational method for airborne detection and mapping of SGD using the 200 km coastline of western Hawai‘i Island as a testing and analysis environment. Airborne high spatial resolution (1 m) thermal imaging produced relative sea surface temperature (SST) maps that aligned geospatially with boat-based transects of SGD presence–absence. Boat-based SST anomaly measurements were highly correlated with airborne SST anomaly measurements (R2 = 0.85; RMSE = 0.04 °C). Resulting maps of the relative difference in SST inside and outside of SGD plumes, called delta-SST, revealed 749 SGD plumes in 200 km of coastline, with nearly half of the SGD plumes smaller than 0.1 ha in size. Only 9% of SGD plumes were ≥1 ha in size, and just 1% were larger than 10 ha. Our findings indicate that small SGD is omnipresent in the nearshore environment. Furthermore, we found that the infrequent, large SGD plumes (>10 ha) displayed the weakest delta-SST values, suggesting that large discharge plumes are not likely to provide cooling refugia to warming coral reefs. Our operational approach can be applied frequently over time to generate SGD information relative to terrestrial substrate, topography, and pollutants. This operational approach will yield new insights into the role that land-to-reef interactions have on the composition and condition of coral reefs along coastlines.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Discharges from Cargo Ships’ Black and Grey Waters—A Case Study of a Baltic Sea Port
Authors: Lappalainen Suvi-Tuuli , Tapaninen Ulla , Kotta Jonne
Published: August 2024

Shipping is a vital component of global trade. However, shipping activities have negative environmental impacts, including emissions to air and water. The Baltic Sea is severely affected by eutrophication, mainly due to nutrient inputs, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. Understanding the contributions of various nutrient sources is essential for informed environmental regulation. The aim of this research is to quantify the nutrient content of black and grey water discharged from cargo ships in the Baltic Sea in order to assess their contribution to the total nutrient load. Specifically, this research examines the nitrogen and phosphorus loadings from ships calling the port of HaminaKotka and addresses key questions regarding nutrient generation, discharge proportions, emission shares by ship type, and their importance compared to other sources. Using a methodology based on ship data and nutrient production estimates, this study found that 2545 cargo ships generated a total of 781 kg of nitrogen and 134 kg of phosphorus in their effluents during their voyages to the port in 2021. However, only a small fraction (0.5%) of the cargo ships discharged their wastewater at port reception facilities. This study concludes that nutrient discharges from cargo ships’ wastewaters are relatively small, contributing less than 0.06% phosphorus and 0.01% nitrogen to the total load in the area. This result indicates that the impact of cargo ships’ wastewater on the eutrophication of the Baltic Sea is smaller than previously thought. The methodology used in this study can be applied in other ports and regions to assess nutrient discharges from cargo ships’ wastewaters on a wider scale. Further research is recommended to assess the effectiveness of on-board treatment systems, the impact of other contaminants in wastewater, and the development of port reception facilities to facilitate proper wastewater management in the maritime trade.
Lactoferrin Binds through Its N-Terminus to the Receptor-Binding Domain of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Babulic Patrik , Cehlar Ondrej , Ondrovičová Gabriela , Moskalets Tetiana , Skrabana Rostislav , Leksa Vladimir
Published: August 2024

Since Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) still presents a considerable threat, it is beneficial to provide therapeutic supplements against it. In this respect, glycoprotein lactoferrin (LF) and lactoferricin (LFC), a natural bioactive peptide yielded upon digestion from the N-terminus of LF, are of utmost interest, since both have been shown to reduce infections of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, in particular via blockade of the virus priming and binding. Here, we, by means of biochemical and biophysical methods, reveal that LF directly binds to the S-protein of SARS-CoV-2. We determined thermodynamic and kinetic characteristics of the complex formation and mapped the mutual binding sites involved in this interaction, namely the N-terminal region of LF and the receptor-binding domain of the S-protein (RBD). These results may not only explain many of the observed protective effects of LF and LFC in SARS-CoV-2 infection but may also be instrumental in proposing potent and cost-effective supplemental tools in the management of COVID-19.
Ixeris polycephala Extract Alleviates Progression of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia via Modification of Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Inflammation
Authors: Baek Eun-Bok , Hwang Youn-Hwan , Hong Eun-Ju , Won Young-Suk , Kwun Hyo-Jung
Published: August 2024

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a urogenital disorder that is common in aging men. Ixeris polycephala (IP) is used in traditional medicine and contains pharmacologically active compounds. However, the effect for BPH progression has not been elucidated. We herein examined the protective potential of IP extract on a testosterone-induced model of BPH in rats. To generate the BPH model, daily subcutaneous administration of testosterone was applied for 4 weeks. During this period, the rats were also administered a daily oral gavage of IP (150 mg/kg), finasteride (positive control), or vehicle. Testosterone treatment was associated with a significantly higher prostate-to-body weight ratio, serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT) level, and prostatic gene expression of 5α-reductase compared to untreated controls. Notably, IP plus testosterone co-treatment was associated with decreased epithelial thickness, down-regulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and cyclin D1, and upregulation of pro-apoptotic signaling molecules. IP co-treatment also down-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and decreased inflammatory cell infiltration compared to the levels seen in the testosterone-induced BPH. IP appears to protect rats against the progression of testosterone-induced BPH by alleviating prostate cell growth and inflammatory responses, and thus may have potential for clinical use against BPH progression.
Nano-Liposomal Beetroot Phyto-Pigment in Photodynamic Therapy as a Prospective Green Approach for Cancer Management: In Vitro Evaluation and Molecular Dynamic Simulation
Authors: Fadeel Doaa Abdel , Fadel Maha , El-Kholy Abdullah Ibrahim , El-Rashedy Ahmed A. , Mohsen Engy , Ezzat Marwa I. , Issa Marwa Y.
Published: August 2024

Using plant extracts as photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy (PDT) represents a significant green approach toward sustainability. This study investigates beetroot juice (BRJ), betanin, and their liposomal formulations (Lip-BRJ, Lip-Bet) as photosensitizers in cancer PDT. BRJ was prepared, and its betanin content was quantified via HPLC. The p-nitrosodimethylaniline (RNO)/imidazole technique monitored the singlet oxygen formation. BRJ and betanin decreased the RNO absorbance at 440 nm by 12% and 9% after 45 min of irradiation, respectively. Furthermore, betanin interaction with Bcl-2 proteins was examined using binding free energy analysis and molecular dynamic simulation. The results revealed favorable interactions with ΔG values of −40.94 kcal/mol. Then, BRJ, betanin, Lip-BRJ, and Lip-Bet were tested as photosensitizers on normal (HEK 293) and human lung cancer (A549) cell lines. Irradiation significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of Lip-Bet on HEK 293 cells (20% cell viability at 2000 µg/mL) and A549 cells (13% cell viability at 1000 µg/mL). For Lip-BRJ, irradiation significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity on HEK 293 cells at lower concentrations and on A549 cells at all tested concentrations. These results proved the positive effect of light and liposomal encapsulation on the anticancer activity of betanin and BRJ, suggesting the efficiency of liposomal beetroot pigments as green photosensitizers.
Utilization of the Drug–Polymer Solid Dispersion Obtained by Ball Milling as a Taste Masking Method in the Development of Orodispersible Minitablets with Hydrocortisone in Pediatric Doses
Authors: Trofimiuk Monika , Olechno Katarzyna , Trofimiuk Emil , Czajkowska-Kośnik Anna , Ciosek-Skibińska Patrycja , Głowacz Klaudia , Lenik Joanna , Basa Anna , Car Halina , Winnicka Katarzyna
Published: August 2024

The objective of the conducted research was to design 2 mm orodispersible minitablets of pediatric doses of hydrocortisone (0.5 mg; 1.0 mg) with desirable pharmaceutical properties and eliminate the sensation of a bitter taste using preparation of solid dispersion by ball mill. Hydrocortisone was selected as the model substance, as it is widely utilized in the pediatric population. ODMTs were prepared by compression (preceded by granulation) in a traditional single-punch tablet machine and evaluated using pharmacopoeial tests, DSC, and FTIR analysis. The methods used to evaluate the effectiveness of the taste-masking effect included in vivo participation of healthy volunteers, in vitro drug dissolution and utilization of an analytical device—“electronic tongue”. The research employed a preclinical animal model to preliminary investigate the bioequivalence of the designed drug dosage form in comparison to reference products. The study confirmed the possibility of manufacturing good-quality hydrocortisone ODMTs with a taste-masking effect owing to the incorporation of a solid dispersion in the tablet mass.
Theoretical Models for Performance Analysis of Spintronic THz Emitters
Authors: Yang Yingshu , Dal Forno Stefano , Battiato Marco
Published: August 2024

The terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum, spanning from 0.1 to 10 THz, offers unique opportunities for imaging, spectroscopy, and communication applications. However, the potential of THz technologies has been limited by the availability of efficient and versatile THz emitters. Spintronic THz emitters (STEs), leveraging the ultrafast dynamics of electron spins in magnetic materials, have emerged as a promising solution to this challenge. STEs offer significant advantages, including broad bandwidth, high power output, and room-temperature operation, positioning them at the forefront of THz technology development. Despite these advances, understanding the operational principles and improving the performance of STEs remain areas of active research. This review focuses on the theoretical models that describe the behavior of STEs, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the underlying physics and suggest directions for future enhancements. Through a detailed examination of these models, the review seeks to clarify the basics of the physics driving STE performance and highlight innovative strategies for their optimization and application expansion.
Ice-Ice Disease Prevalence and Intensity in Eucheumatoid Seaweed Farms: Seasonal Variability and Relationship with the Physicochemical and Meteorological Parameters
Authors: Tahiluddin Albaris B. , Terzi Ertugrul
Published: August 2024

Since its initial report in the Philippines in 1981, ice-ice disease (IID) remains a substantial threat to the sustainability of eucheumatoid seaweed production. However, comprehensive investigations into the prevalence, intensity, and potential relationships with physicochemical and meteorological parameters are limited, particularly in open-sea farms. This is the first study to conduct a 12-month monitoring of IID prevalence and intensity in eucheumatoid seaweed farms in Tawi-Tawi, Philippines. The research aimed to elucidate seasonal variations and potential associations with physicochemical and meteorological parameters. The findings revealed significant seasonal variations in IID prevalence, with a higher incidence observed during the dry season compared to the wet season. Additionally, deep-water farms exhibited significantly higher prevalence and ice-ice spot numbers per bundle compared to shallow-water farms. Furthermore, Kappaphycus striatus displayed a significantly greater ice-ice spot length per bundle compared to K. alvarezii. Notably, no interaction effects were observed among season, species, and depth. Interestingly, while no correlations were found between ice-ice disease and most measured physicochemical and meteorological parameters (temperature, salinity, pH, water current velocity, wind speed) or nutrient concentrations (phosphate, nitrate, nitrite), an inverse correlation (p < 0.05) emerged between ammonium levels and IID intensity parameters (number and length of ice-ice spot per bundle). Moreover, a positive correlation was observed between monthly rainfall and IID intensity. These findings offer valuable insights into the dynamics of IID in open-sea eucheumatoid seaweed (Kappaphycus) farming, highlighting the influence of seasonality, depth, and species susceptibility, as well as the relationship between IID severity and ammonium levels and rainfall.
Enhancing Solanum lycopersicum Resilience: Bacterial Cellulose Alleviates Low Irrigation Stress and Boosts Nutrient Uptake
Authors: De la Cruz Gómez Noelia , Poza-Carrión César , Del Castillo-González Lucía , Martínez Sánchez Ángel Isidro , Moliner Ana , Aranaz Inmaculada , Berrocal-Lobo Marta
Published: August 2024

The use of natural-origin biomaterials in bioengineering has led to innovative approaches in agroforestry. Bacterial cellulose (BC), sharing the same chemical formula as plant-origin cellulose (PC), exhibits significantly different biochemical properties, including a high degree of crystallinity and superior water retention capacity. Previous research showed that natural-origin glucose-based chitin enhanced plant growth in both herbaceous and non-herbaceous plants. In this study, we produced BC in the laboratory and investigated its effects on the substrate and on Solanum lycopersicum seedlings. Soil amended with BC increased root growth compared with untreated seedlings. Additionally, under limited irrigation conditions, BC increased global developmental parameters including fresh and dry weight, as well as total carbon and nitrogen content. Under non-irrigation conditions, BC contributed substantially to plant survival. RNA sequencing (Illumina®) on BC-treated seedlings revealed that BC, despite its bacterial origin, did not stress the plants, confirming its innocuous nature, and it lightly induced genes related to root development and cell division as well as inhibition of stress responses and defense. The presence of BC in the organic substrate increased soil availability of phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), and potassium (K), correlating with enhanced nutrient uptake in plants. Our results demonstrate the potential of BC for improving soil nutrient availability and plant tolerance to low irrigation, making it valuable for agricultural and forestry purposes in the context of global warming.
Description of Two New Species of Stauroneis Ehrenberg (Naviculales, Bacillariophyceae) from the Russian Far East Using an Integrative Approach
Authors: Bagmet Veronika B. , Abdullin Shamil R. , Nikulin Vyacheslav Yu. , Nikulin Arthur Yu. , Gorpenchenko Tatiana Y. , Gontcharov Andrey A.
Published: August 2024

Stauroneis (Naviculales, Bacillariaceae) are widespread, mostly in fresh-water habitats, and account for 343 species. They are described mainly on the basis of morphology and morphometric traits. These characteristics vary during life cycles and may overlap between species, making their identification difficult. We isolated two strains of naviculoid diatoms and examined them using an integrative approach (phylogenetic, morphological, ultrastructural data, and life cycle). Phylogenetic analyses based on chloroplast rbcL gene data showed affinity of the new strains to the genus Stauroneis. Our algae share morphological features typical of Stauroneis but differ from similar species in minimal valve length measurements, valve apex shape, and minimal number of striae in 10 μm. Two strains are distinct from each other in maximal valve length and width, partially valve shape, the number of areolae in 10 μm, and cingulum structure. It was revealed that the strains reproduce via isogamy. Three species delimitation methods (ASAP, PTP, and GMYC) also confirmed that the two closely related new strains represent distinct species. Based on molecular data and phenotypic traits examined within the framework of an integrative approach, we describe two new isolates as Stauroneis urbani sp. nov. and Stauroneis edaphica sp. nov.
Isolation of Haustorium Protoplasts Optimized by Orthogonal Design for Transient Gene Expression in Phelipanche aegyptiaca
Authors: Zeng Xiaojian , Cao Xiaolei , Zhao Qiuyue , Hou Siyuan , Hu Xin , Yang Zheyu , Hao Tingli , Zhao Sifeng , Yao Zhaoqun
Published: August 2024

The efficient protoplast transient transformation system in plants is an important tool to study gene expression, metabolic pathways, and various mutagenic parameters, but it has not been established in Phelipanche aegyptiaca. As a root parasitic weed that endangers the growth of 29 species of plants in 12 families around the world, there is still no good control method for P. aegyptiaca. Even the parasitic mechanisms of P. aegyptiaca and the related genes regulating parasitism are not yet understood. In this study, by comparing the factors related to protoplast isolation and transfection, we developed the optimal protocol for protoplast isolation and transfection in Phelipanche aegyptiaca haustorium. The optimal protoplast yield and activity were 6.2 × 106 protoplasts/g fresh weight [FW] and 87.85%, respectively, by using 0.5 mol/L mannitol, enzyme concentrations of 2.5% cellulase R-10 and 0.8% Macerozyme R-10 at 24 °C for 4 h. At the same time, transfection efficiency of protoplasts was up to 78.49% when using 30 μg plasmid, 40% polyethylene glycol (PEG) concentration, 24 °C incubation temperature, and 20 min transfection time. This is the first efficient protoplasts’ isolation and transient transformation system of Phelipanche aegyptiaca haustorium, laying a foundation for future studies on the gene function and mechanisms of haustorium formation in parasitic plants.
Phytochelatin Synthase: An In Silico Comparative Analysis in Cyanobacteria and Eukaryotic Microalgae
Authors: Ferrari Michele , Marieschi Matteo , Cozza Radiana , Torelli Anna
Published: August 2024

Phytochelatins (PCs) are small cysteine-rich peptides involved in metal detoxification, not genetically encoded but enzymatically synthesized by phytochelatin synthases (PCSs) starting from glutathione. The constitutive PCS expression even in the absence of metal contamination, the wide phylogenetic distribution and the similarity between PCSs and the papain-type cysteine protease catalytic domain suggest a wide range of functions for PCSs. These proteins, widely studied in land plants, have not been fully analyzed in algae and cyanobacteria, although these organisms are the first to cope with heavy-metal stress in aquatic environments and can be exploited for phytoremediation. To fill this gap, we compared the features of the PCS proteins of different cyanobacterial and algal taxa by phylogenetic linkage. The analyzed sequences fall into two main, already known groups of PCS-like proteins. Contrary to previous assumptions, they are not classed as prokaryotic and eukaryotic sequences, but rather as sequences characterized by the alternative presence of asparagine and aspartic/glutamic acid residues in proximity of the catalytic cysteine. The presence of these enzymes with peculiar features suggests differences in their post-translational regulation related to cell/environmental requirements or different cell functions rather than to differences due to their belonging to different phylogenetic taxa.
Comparison of Root Transcriptomes against Clubroot Disease Pathogens in a Resistant Chinese Cabbage Cultivar (Brassica rapa cv. ‘Akimeki’)
Authors: Oh Eun-Seok , Park Hyeonseon , Lee Kwanuk , Shim Donghwan , Oh Man-Ho
Published: August 2024

Clubroot, caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae, is one of the diseases that causes major economic losses in cruciferous crops worldwide. Although prevention strategies, including soil pH adjustment and crop rotation, have been used, the disease’s long persistence and devastating impact continuously remain in the soil. CR varieties were developed for clubroot-resistant (CR) Chinese cabbage, and ‘Akimeki’ is one of the clubroot disease-resistant cultivars. However, recent studies have reported susceptibility to several Korean pathotypes in Akimeki and the destruction of the resistance to P. brassicae in many Brassica species against CR varieties, requiring the understanding of more fine-tuned plant signaling by fungal pathogens. In this study, we focused on the early molecular responses of Akimeki during infection with two P. brassicae strains, Seosan (SS) and Hoengseong2 (HS2), using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Among a total of 2358 DEGs, 2037 DEGs were differentially expressed following SS and HS2 infection. Gene ontology (GO) showed that 1524 and 513 genes were up-regulated following SS and HS2 inoculations, respectively. Notably, the genes of defense response and jasmonic acid regulations were enriched in the SS inoculation condition, and the genes of water transport and light intensity response were enriched in the HS2 inoculation condition. Moreover, KEGG pathways revealed that the gene expression set were related to pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) and effector-triggered immunity (ETI) mechanisms. The results will provide valuable information for developing CR cultivars in Brassica plants.