bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of the gut microbiome and metabolic profile in elderly patients with sarcopenia
Authors: Zhou Jing , Liu Jiang , Lin Qinqing , Shi Linhui , Zeng Zhigang , Guan Lichang , Ma Yunzi , Zeng Yingtong , Zhong Shilong , Xu Lishu
Published: November 2023

Introduction: There is growing evidence of research indicating that the gut microbiota is involved in the development of sarcopenia. Nevertheless, there exists a notable deficiency in comprehension concerning the connection between irregularities in the intestinal microbiome and metabolic processes in older individuals suffering from sarcopenia.

Methods: To analyze fecal samples obtained from a cohort of 30 older patients diagnosed with sarcopenia as well as 30 older patients without sarcopenia, this study employed 16S rDNA sequencing and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based non-targeted metabolomics profiling techniques.

Results: As a result, we found that 29 genera and 172 metabolites were significantly altered in the sarcopenic patients. Among them, Blautia, Lachnospiraceae_unclassified, and Subdoligranulum were the bacteria with a potential diagnostic value for sarcopenia diagnosis. Correlation analysis between clinical indices and these gut bacteria suggested that the IL-6 level was negatively correlated with Blautia. Function prediction analysis demonstrated that 17 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways differ significantly between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients. The primary classes of metabolites identified in the study included lipids and lipid-like molecules, organic acids and derivatives, and organoheterocyclic compounds. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that purine metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, butanoate metabolism, and histidine metabolism may contribute to the development of sarcopenia. The correlation study on gut microbiota and metabolites found that Lachnospiraceae_unclassified was positively associated with seven metabolites that were more abundant in the non-sarcopenia group and negatively correlated with three metabolites that were more abundant in the sarcopenia group. In addition, Subdoligranulum was positively correlated with seven metabolites that were lacking in sarcopenia and negatively correlated with two metabolites that were enriching in sarcopenia. Moreover, Blautia was positively associated with xanthosine.

Discussion: We conducted a study on the intestinal microbiota and metabolic profile of elderly individuals with sarcopenia, offering a comprehensive analysis of the overall ecosystem. Through this investigation, we were able to validate existing research on the gut–muscle axis and further investigate potential pathogenic processes and treatment options for sarcopenia.
Propagation characteristics of the vortex beam array through anisotropic non-Kolmogorov maritime atmospheric turbulence
Authors: Yu Hong , Yang Bowen , Hu Hanyin , Zhong Zheqiang , Zhang Bin
Published: November 2023

This study employs the power spectrum inversion method to generate the phase screens of atmospheric turbulence over the sea, the theoretical model of the vortex beam array emitted by a focusing system through anisotropic non-Kolmogorov maritime atmospheric turbulence was built. The propagation characteristics of the vortex beam array were investigated theoretically and compared to those of the Gaussian beam array. The results show that the vortex beam array is less affected by turbulence and exhibits stronger resistance to the turbulence. On this basis, using the evaluation parameters including the relative beam width and the beam wander, the influences of various parameters of the vortex beam array and atmospheric turbulence, such as topological charge, beamlet width, number of beamlets, anisotropy factor, and power law, on its propagation characteristics through anisotropic non-Kolmogorov maritime atmospheric turbulence were studied extensively. The results can provide a useful reference for the applications of the vortex beam array in optical communication through the maritime atmosphere.
Agronomic strategies to enhance the early vigor and yield of maize part II: the role of seed applied biostimulant, hybrid, and starter fertilization on crop performance
Authors: Capo Luca , Sopegno Alessandro , Reyneri Amedeo , Ujvári Gergely , Agnolucci Monica , Blandino Massimo
Published: November 2023

Maize cropping systems need to be re-designed, within a sustainable intensification context, by focusing on the application of high-use efficiency crop practices, such as those that are able to enhance an early plant vigor in the first critical growth stages; such practices could lead to significant agronomic and yield benefits. The aim of this study has been to evaluate the effects of the cultivation of hybrids with superior early vigor, of the distribution of starter fertilizers at sowing, and of the seed application of biostimulants on promoting plant growth and grain yield in full factorial experiments carried out in both a growth chamber and in open fields. The greatest benefits, in terms of plant growth enhancement (plant height, biomass, leaf area) and cold stress mitigation, were detected for the starter fertilization, followed by the use of an early vigor hybrid and a biostimulant seed treatment. The starter fertilization and the early vigor hybrid led to earlier flowering dates, that is, of 2.1 and 2.8 days, respectively, and significantly reduced grain moisture at harvest. Moreover, the early vigor hybrid, the starter NP fertilization, and the biostimulant treatment increased grain yield by 8.5%, 6.0%, and 5.1%, respectively, compared to the standard hybrid and the untreated controls. The combination of all the considered factors resulted in the maximum benefits, compared to the control cropping system, with an increase in the plant growth of 124%, a reduction of the sowing-flowering period of 5 days, and a gain in grain yield of 14%. When choosing the most suitable crop practice, the diversity of each cropping system should be considered, according to the pedo-climatic conditions, the agronomic background, the yield potential, and the supply chain requirements.
Examination of the knowledge gap of return-to-work outcomes in routine outpatient treatment for common mental disorders: a systematic review
Authors: Lundqvist Jakob , Brattmyr Martin , Lindberg Martin Schevik , Havnen Audun , Solem Stian , Hjemdal Odin
Published: November 2023

Objective

Little is known about the effects of routine mental health care on return-to-work (RTW) outcomes. This systematic review aimed to summarize and evaluate the effects of clinical representative psychotherapy on RTW among patients with a common mental disorder (CMD), treated within public mental health care.

Method

A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, and SveMED+. Primary outcomes were RTW, sick leave status, or self-reported work functioning. Studies limited to specific treatments and/or specific patient groups were excluded.

Results

Out of 1,422 records, only one article met the preregistered inclusion criteria. After broadening of criteria, a total of nine studies were included. Six were randomized controlled trials (RCT), two were register-based studies, and one was a quasi-experimental study. Descriptions of treatment duration and intensity of usual care were rarely specified but ranged from a few sessions to 3 years of psychotherapy. In the RCTs, two studies favored the intervention, one favored routine care, and three found no difference between conditions. Choice of outcomes differed greatly and included RTW rates (full or partial), number of days until RTW, change in sick leave status, and net days/months of work absence. Time points for outcome assessment also varied greatly from 3 months to 5 years after treatment.

Conclusion

There is inconclusive evidence to establish to what extent routine mental healthcare is associated with improved RTW outcomes for patients with CMD. There is a need for more and better clinical trials and naturalistic studies detailing the content of routine treatment and its effect on RTW.

Systematic review registration

This study was pre-registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022304967), https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022304967.
Factors affecting academic performance of college students in China during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Li Changle , Kang Lili , Miles Toni P. , Khan M. Mahmud
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Understanding the factors that affected academic performance of students during the COVID-19 pandemic will help design effective interventions for improving students’ academic performance during emergency situations as well as during regular academic environment. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the factors that explain academic performance of students in China during the pandemic.

Methods

Data on college students from the 2020 China Family Panel Studies were used, and the final sample consisted of 728 students. Ordered probit regression models were estimated to explain students’ relative performance in the semester when the in-person classes were suspended by using various student and household-related variables and characteristics. To compute missing values in selected variables, a multiple imputation technique was applied.

Results

The odds of poor academic performance declined with higher Internet use for academic purposes, but Internet use for entertainment increased the probability of being in the poor academic performance. College students who spent more time studying on college work were less likely to have poor academic performance.

Discussion

This study identified the factors (Internet use and study time) associated with academic performance among Chinese college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. These results can be used to design policies to improve educational outcomes and to address educational inequalities.
Developing a secure base in family intervention: using the adult attachment projective system to assess attachment in family relationships
Authors: George Carol , Wargo Aikins Julie
Published: November 2023

Families are core to human well-being. Therapeutic intervention may be needed in the context of family disruptions. Attachment theory conceptualizes parents as the secure base and safe haven that support children’s optimal development. Parents who have experienced their own attachment difficulties or traumas may not provide quality caregiving necessary for balanced secure parent–child attachment relationships. Following Bowlby’s original thinking (1988), an attachment approach to family intervention views the therapist as a secure base that enables families to explore individual and system problems to restore equilibrium. Attachment informed therapy uses attachment theory to understand family functioning. However, the unavailability of valid economical assessment for examining attachment representations has constricted the practical utility of attachment theory in family therapy beyond applications of general concepts. This chapter describes the Adult Attachment Projective Pictures System (AAP) and explores its use as an efficient manner for assessing attachment representations within families that allows therapists to understand problematic interactions, disabling defensive processes, make predictions concerning negative patterns, and create targets for change and restorative intervention. Consolidating three decades of attachment and caregiving system research, we describe how distinct patterns of AAP responses for each adult attachment group map onto expected parenting and family system expectations and behaviors to provide a concise and informative framework. In addition to the traditional adult attachment patterns (Secure, Dismissing, Preoccupied, Unresolved), we describe for the first time expectations for two additional forms of incomplete pathological mourning (Failed Mourning and Preoccupied with Personal Suffering) that have been overlooked in the field.
Triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio was negatively associated with relative grip strength in older adults: a cross-sectional study of the NHANES database
Authors: Huang Yan , Liao Jian , Liu Yang
Published: November 2023

Aim

This study aims to explore the association between triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio and relative grip strength in older adults in order to provide some references for the prevention and control of sarcopenia.

Methods

For this cross-sectional study, the demographic and clinical data of 1,404 individuals aged ≥60 years old were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database in 2011–2014. The definition of relative grip strength was the sum of the largest reading from each hand/body mass index (BMI) ratio. We used weighted univariate linear regression and stepwise regression analysis to screen the covariates. Weighted univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to explore the association between the TG/HDL-C ratio and the relative grip strength. We also explored this relationship in subgroups of gender, diabetes mellitus (DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and arthritis. The evaluation index was β with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of 1,306 older adults were eligible. After adjusting for the covariates including age, gender, race, marital status, physical activity, DM, CVD, arthritis, and chronic kidney disease (CKD), we found that the TG/HDL-C ratio was negatively linked to the relative grip strength (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, the increased TG/HDL-C ratio was also related to the decreased relative grip strength in those who were women, not having DM, and having CVD (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

With the increase in the TG/HDL-C ratio, the relative grip strength of older adults decreased significantly, indicating that the TG/HDL-C ratio could be closely monitored in the older adult population and may be associated with the prevention and control of sarcopenia.
Avoidance of medical care among American Indians with a history of cancer during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Chen Sixia , James Shirley A. , Hall Spencer , Dang Julie H. , Campbell Janis E. , Chen Moon S. , Doescher Mark P.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Assess the percentage of cancer-related appointment delays, cancelations, and the unavailability of medications experienced by American Indian participants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey study was completed between October 2020 and July 2021 by 360 individuals with cancer who lived in California and Oklahoma. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analysis was completed in SAS 9.4.

Results

During the initial Covid-19 pandemic, almost one-third (30%) of respondents delayed cancer-related appointments, 42% canceled cancer-related appointments, and one-quarter (24%) were unable to access prescription medications or over-the-counter medications (27%) due to COVID-19. People who underwent testing for COVID-19 were five times more likely to delay a medical appointment [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 5.3, 95% CI:2.4, 11.7] and people who followed three or more social distancing measures were more than six times more likely to cancel medical appointments (aOR:6.3, 95% CI:2.9, 13.9).

Conclusion

This study identifies delays, cancelations, and medication inaccessibility people identifying as American Indian faced during the coronavirus pandemic. Disparities in healthcare delivery could contribute to increased morbidity and mortality rates of cancer.
Identifying mental health discussion topic in social media community: subreddit of bipolar disorder analysis
Authors: Timakum Tatsawan , Xie Qing , Lee Soobin
Published: November 2023

Online platforms allow individuals to connect with others, share experiences, and find communities with similar interests, providing a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. Numerous previous studies examined the content of online health communities to gain insights into the sentiments surrounding mental health conditions. However, there is a noticeable gap in the research landscape, as no study has specifically concentrated on conducting an in-depth analysis or providing a comprehensive visualization of Bipolar disorder. Therefore, this study aimed to address this gap by examining the Bipolar subreddit online community, where we collected 1,460,447 posts as plain text documents for analysis. By employing LDA topic modeling and sentiment analysis, we found that the Bipolar disorder online community on Reddit discussed various aspects of the condition, including symptoms, mood swings, diagnosis, and medication. Users shared personal experiences, challenges, and coping strategies, seeking support and connection. Discussions related to therapy and medication were prevalent, emphasizing the importance of finding suitable therapists and managing medication side effects. The online community serves as a platform for seeking help, advice, and information, highlighting the role of social support in managing bipolar disorder. This study enhances our understanding of individuals living with bipolar disorder and provides valuable insights and feedback for researchers developing mental health interventions.
Biodistricts as a tool to revitalize rural territories and communities: insights from the biodistrict Cilento
Authors: Stefanovic Lilliana , Agbolosoo-Mensah Ohemaa Achiaa
Published: November 2023

The necessity and urgency of the food systems transformation is no longer questionable, and the transformation pathways are inevitably reappearing as a subject of academic and public debate. In search of sustainable food production strategies as part of a broader transformation, organic food systems are called for as one of the solutions to achieve environmentally friendly and just food systems. In this context, the role of biodistricts has been recently emphasized at the EU level. The authors of the manuscript argue that biodistricts, aside from acting as a tool to help achieve the EU target of increasing the share of organically farmed land, are also capable of revitalizing rural territories and communities, which are currently threatened with rural exodus. Semi-structured interviews and the focus group with key actors of the biodistrict Cilento revealed a multitude of territory- and community related outcomes, which demonstrate that organic districts are capable of rendering rural territories to attractive multifunctional spaces with a tight-knit community.
Fast, accurate, and cost-effective poultry sex genotyping using real-time polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Cordeiro Ciro D. , Gonceer Nesim , Dorus Steve , Crill James E. , Moshayoff Vardit , Lachman Amit , Moran Asaf , Vilenchik Dan , Fedida-Metula Shlomit
Published: November 2023

According to The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), demand for poultry meat and eggs consumption is growing consistently since poultry meat and eggs are readily available and cheap source for nutritional protein. As such, there is pressing demand from industry for improved protocols to determine chicken sex, especially in layer industry since only females can lay eggs. Extensive efforts are being dedicated to avoiding male chicks culling by developing in-ovo sexing detection methods. Any established in-ovo detection method will need to be validated by embryo genotyping. Therefore, there is a growing demand for fast, inexpensive, and precise method for proper discrimination between males and females in the poultry science community. Our aim with this study was to develop an accurate, high-throughput protocol for sex determination using small volumes of blood. We designed primers targeting the Hint-W gene within the W chromosome clearly distinguishing between males and females. In the interest of establishing an efficient protocol without the need for gel electrophoresis, crude DNA extraction without further purification was coupled with qPCR. We validated the accuracy of our method using established protocols and gonad phenotyping and tested our protocol with four different chicken breeds, day-nine embryos, day-old chicks and adult chicken. In summary, we developed a fast, cost-effective, and accurate method for the genotyping of sex chromosomes in chicken.
Effects of Ocean-Land Thermal Contrast on the Organized Cloud: Preliminary Results from a Squall Line Case on Hainan Island
Authors: Wu Qiuyu , Yang Kai , Deng Liping , Chen Jinghua
Published: November 2023

Using the high-resolution numerical weather research and forecasting (WRF) model, study the squall line process that occurred on Hainan Island on 22 April 2020. The findings indicate that high terrain blocks the swift accumulation of water vapor carried by the sea breeze and aids in preserving the accumulated water vapor. According to the sensitivity experiment, terrain height has minimal impact on the macroscopic effects of mesoscale weather processes. However, it does influence where the sea breeze converges. During this process, the ocean-land thermal contrast not only takes the main responsibility for the sea breeze but also leads to uplift motion, which affects the formation, intensity, and duration of the squall line. Additionally, the unstable conditions suggest that a thermal and dynamic environment promote the scale of this squall line. Utilizing the Rotunno–Klemp–Weisman theory (RKW), this study analyzes the effects of the cold pool and vertical wind shear. The analysis reveals that significant vertical wind shear at lower levels and the ground-cold pool contribute to the sustenance and growth of the squall line system. This squall line process has had the greatest impact on the Haikou area due to the strong low-level vertical wind shear and prolonged interaction with the cold pool. When the interaction between the cold pool and the vertical wind shear weakens, the squall dissipates.
Creating an AI-Enhanced Morse Code Translation System Based on Images for People with Severe Disabilities
Authors: Wu Chung-Min , Chen Yeou-Jiunn , Chen Shih-Chung , Zheng Sheng-Feng
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Patients with severe physical impairments (spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) often have limited mobility due to physical limitations, and may even be bedridden all day long, losing the ability to take care of themselves. In more severe cases, the ability to speak may even be lost, making even basic communication very difficult. (2) Methods: This research will design a set of image-assistive communication equipment based on artificial intelligence to solve communication problems of daily needs. Using artificial intelligence for facial positioning, and facial-motion-recognition-generated Morse code, and then translating it into readable characters or commands, it allows users to control computer software by themselves and communicate through wireless networks or a Bluetooth protocol to control environment peripherals. (3) Results: In this study, 23 human-typed data sets were subjected to recognition using fuzzy algorithms. The average recognition rates for expert-generated data and data input by individuals with disabilities were 99.83% and 98.6%, respectively. (4) Conclusions: Through this system, users can express their thoughts and needs through their facial movements, thereby improving their quality of life and having an independent living space. Moreover, the system can be used without touching external switches, greatly improving convenience and safety.
Machine and Deep Learning Approaches Applied to Classify Gougerot–Sjögren Syndrome and Jointly Segment Salivary Glands
Authors: Olivier Aurélien , Hoffmann Clément , Jousse-Joulin Sandrine , Mansour Ali , Bressollette Luc , Clement Benoit
Published: November 2023

To diagnose Gougerot–Sjögren syndrome (GSS), ultrasound imaging (US) is a promising tool for helping physicians and experts. Our project focuses on the automatic detection of the presence of GSS using US. Ultrasound imaging suffers from a weak signal-to-noise ratio. Therefore, any classification or segmentation task based on these images becomes a difficult challenge. To address these two tasks, we evaluate different approaches: a classification using a machine learning method along with feature extraction based on a set of measurements following the radiomics guidance and a deep-learning-based classification. We propose, therefore, an innovative method to enhance the training of a deep neural network with a two phases: multiple supervision using joint classification and a segmentation implemented as pretraining. We highlight the fact that our learning methods provide segmentation results similar to those performed by human experts. We obtain proficient segmentation results for salivary glands and promising detection results for Gougerot–Sjögren syndrome; we observe maximal accuracy with the model trained in two phases. Our experimental results corroborate the fact that deep learning and radiomics combined with ultrasound imaging can be a promising tool for the above-mentioned problems.
Correction: Berghäll et al. The Evolution of Blood Cell Phenotypes, Intracellular and Plasma Cytokines and Morphological Changes in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients. Biomedicines 2022, 10, 934
Authors: Berghäll Elisabeth , Hultström Michael , Frithiof Robert , Lipcsey Miklos , Hahn-Strömberg Victoria
Published: November 2023

In original publication [...]
Long-Term Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Profile and Seroclearance Following Antiviral Treatment: A Single-Center, Real-World Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Chih-Wen , Yang Chen-Ta , Su Pei-Yuan , Chen Yang-Yuan , Huang Siou-Ping , Yen Hsu-Heng
Published: November 2023

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance, an indicator of recovery from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, is uncommon in long-term nucleos(t)ide analog (NUC) therapy. We compared the incidence of HBsAg seroclearance in patients with and without NUC discontinuation to identify predictors of HBsAg seroclearance. This retrospective study enrolled adult patients with a chronic HBV infection followed for ≥12 months after NUC discontinuation (finite group) and those treated with NUCs for >3 years (non-finite group). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were analyzed. The study cohort included 978 patients, including 509 and 469 patients in the finite and non-finite groups, respectively. Cumulative HBsAg seroclearance incidence was significantly higher in the finite group than in the non-finite group (p = 0.006). The 5- and 10-year cumulative HBsAg seroclearance incidence were 6.6% and 18.9% in the finite group and 3% and 14.6% in the non-finite group, respectively. The likelihood of HBsAg seroclearance was higher in those with end of treatment (EOT) HBsAg levels of <100 IU/mL and in those without clinical relapse (CR). The cumulative 3-year CR incidence was 16.8%. The incidence of liver decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma were 4.1 and 0.4 per 1000 person-years, respectively. The hepatocellular carcinoma incidence did not significantly differ between the finite and non-finite groups (p = 0.941). In conclusion, higher HBsAg seroclearance incidence in patients receiving finite therapy, and the increased likelihood of HBsAg seroclearance in those with EOT HBsAg levels of <100 IU/mL and in those without CR should be considered during decision-making of treatment options.
Analysis of Methylglyoxal Concentration in a Group of Patients with Newly Diagnosed Prediabetes
Authors: Sutkowska Edyta , Fecka Izabela , Marciniak Dominik , Bednarska Katarzyna , Sutkowska Magdalena , Hap Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

Background: The abnormal serum concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO) has been presented as an indicator of chronic complications in diabetes (DM). Because such complications are also found in pre-DM, we decided to assess the concentration of this compound in individuals with pre-DM, without cardio-vascular diseases. Methods: Frozen samples from individuals newly diagnosed with pre-DM (N = 31) and healthy subjects (N = 11) were prepared and MGO concentration was determined using UHPLC-ESI-QqTOF-MS. Results: Statistical significance was established when the groups were compared for body weight, BMI, fasting glucose level, fatty liver and use of statins but not for the other descriptive parameters. The positive linear correlation showed that the higher HbA1c, the higher MGO concentration (p = 0.01). The values of MGO were within the normal range in both groups (mean value for pre-DM: 135.44 nM (±SD = 32.67) and for the control group: 143.25 nM (±SD = 17.93); p = 0.46 (±95% CI)), with no statistical significance between the groups. Conclusions: We did not confirm the elevated MGO levels in the group of patients with pre-DM. The available data suggests a possible effect of statin intake on MGO levels. This thesis requires confirmation on a larger number of patients with an assessment of MGO levels before and after the introduction of statins.
Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Curauá Natural-Fiber-Reinforced Composites
Authors: Neto Jorge S. S. , Cavalcanti Daniel K. K. , da Cunha Ferro Luiz E. , de Queiroz Henrique F. M. , Aguiar Ricardo A. A. , Banea Mariana D.
Published: November 2023

The main objective of this research centered on investigating the effect of the addition of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the mechanical and thermal properties of curauá-fiber-reinforced composites. The MWCNTs were added either to the fiber surface or into the resin matrix as the second reinforcing phase. The MWCNT-modified curauá fibers as well as raw fibers were characterized using a single-fiber tensile test, TGA, and FTIR analysis. Further, different composite samples, namely, pure curauá, (curauá + MWCNTs) + resin and curauá+ (resin + MWCNTs), were manufactured via compression molding and tested to determine their mechanical and thermal properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was used to examine the surfaces of the tested fibers. It was found that the addition of MWCNTs to the curauá fibers resulted in positive effects (an enhancement in properties was found for the MWCNT-modified fibers and their composites). The addition of MWCNTs also increased the thermal stability of the natural fibers and composites.
Rhabdomyosarcoma: Current Therapy, Challenges, and Future Approaches to Treatment Strategies
Authors: Zarrabi Ali , Perrin David , Kavoosi Mahboubeh , Sommer Micah , Sezen Serap , Mehrbod Parvaneh , Bhushan Bhavya , Machaj Filip , Rosik Jakub , Kawalec Philip , Afifi Saba , Bolandi Seyed Mohammadreza , Koleini Peiman , Taheri Mohsen , Madrakian Tayyebeh , Łos Marek J. , Lindsey Benjamin , Cakir Nilufer , Zarepour Atefeh , Hushmandi Kiavash , Fallah Ali , Koc Bahattin , Khosravi Arezoo , Ahmadi Mazaher , Logue Susan , Orive Gorka , Pecic Stevan , Gordon Joseph W. , Ghavami Saeid
Published: November 2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare cancer arising in skeletal muscle that typically impacts children and young adults. It is a worldwide challenge in child health as treatment outcomes for metastatic and recurrent disease still pose a major concern for both basic and clinical scientists. The treatment strategies for rhabdomyosarcoma include multi-agent chemotherapies after surgical resection with or without ionization radiotherapy. In this comprehensive review, we first provide a detailed clinical understanding of rhabdomyosarcoma including its classification and subtypes, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Later, we focus on chemotherapy strategies for this childhood sarcoma and discuss the impact of three mechanisms that are involved in the chemotherapy response including apoptosis, macro-autophagy, and the unfolded protein response. Finally, we discuss in vivo mouse and zebrafish models and in vitro three-dimensional bioengineering models of rhabdomyosarcoma to screen future therapeutic approaches and promote muscle regeneration.
Microbial-Related Metabolites May Be Involved in Eight Major Biological Processes and Represent Potential Diagnostic Markers in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Nie Siru , Wang Ang , Chen Xiaohui , Gong Yuehua , Yuan Yuan
Published: November 2023

Metabolites associated with microbes regulate human immunity, inhibit bacterial colonization, and promote pathogenicity. Integrating microbe and metabolome research in GC provides a direction for understanding the microbe-associated pathophysiological process of metabolic changes and disease occurrence. The present study included 30 GC patients with 30 cancerous tissues and paired non-cancerous tissues (NCs) as controls. LC-MS/MS metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing were performed to obtain the metabolic and microbial characteristics. Integrated analysis of the microbes and metabolomes was conducted to explore the coexistence relationship between the microbial and metabolic characteristics of GC and to identify microbial-related metabolite diagnostic markers. The metabolic analysis showed that the overall metabolite distribution differed between the GC tissues and the NC tissues: 25 metabolites were enriched in the NC tissues and 42 metabolites were enriched in the GC tissues. The α and β microbial diversities were higher in the GC tissues than in the NC tissues, with 11 differential phyla and 52 differential genera. In the correlation and coexistence integrated analysis, 66 differential metabolites were correlated and coexisted, with specific differential microbes. The microbes in the GC tissue likely regulated eight metabolic pathways. In the efficacy evaluation of the microbial-related differential metabolites in the diagnosis of GC, 12 differential metabolites (area under the curve [AUC] >0.9) exerted relatively high diagnostic efficiency, and the combined diagnostic efficacy of 5 to 6 microbial-related differential metabolites was higher than the diagnostic efficacy of a single feature. Therefore, microbial diversity and metabolite distribution differed between the GC tissues and the NC tissues. Microbial-related metabolites may be involved in eight major metabolism-based biological processes in GC and represent potential diagnostic markers.
DNA Methylation Aberrations in Dimethylarsinic Acid-Induced Bladder Carcinogenesis
Authors: Yamamoto Tomoki , Gi Min , Yamashita Satoshi , Suzuki Shugo , Fujioka Masaki , Vachiraarunwong Arpamas , Guo Runjie , Qiu Guiyu , Kakehashi Anna , Kato Minoru , Uchida Junji , Wanibuchi Hideki
Published: November 2023

Arsenic is a known human urinary bladder carcinogen. While arsenic is known to cause aberrant DNA methylation, the mechanism of arsenic-triggered bladder carcinogenesis is not fully understood. The goal of this study was to identify aberrant DNA methylation in rat bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) induced by dimethylarsinic acid (DMAV), a major organic metabolite of arsenic. We performed genome-wide DNA methylation and microarray gene expression analyses of DMAV-induced rat UCs and the urothelium of rats treated for 4 weeks with DMAV. We identified 40 genes that were both hypermethylated and downregulated in DMAV-induced rat UCs. Notably, four genes (CPXM1, OPCML, TBX20, and KCND3) also showed reduced expression in the bladder urothelium after 4 weeks of exposure to DMAV. We also found that CPXM1 is aberrantly methylated and downregulated in human bladder cancers and human bladder cancer cells. Genes with aberrant DNA methylation and downregulated expression in DMAV-exposed bladder urothelium and in DMAV-induced UCs in rats, suggest that these alterations occurred in the early stages of arsenic-induced bladder carcinogenesis. Further study to evaluate the functions of these genes will advance our understanding of the role of aberrant DNA methylation in arsenic bladder carcinogenesis, and will also facilitate the identification of new therapeutic targets for arsenic-related bladder cancers.
Internet Use and Perceived Parental Involvement among Adolescents from Lower Socioeconomic Groups in Europe: An Exploration
Authors: Willems Roy A. , Smith Peter K. , Culbert Catherine , Purdy Noel , Hamilton Jayne , Völlink Trijntje , Scheithauer Herbert , Fiedler Nora , Brighi Antonella , Menin Damiano , Mameli Consuelo , Guarini Annalisa
Published: November 2023

Internet usage is a salient developmental factor in adolescents’ lives. Although relevant correlates of Internet use have been documented earlier, there is a lack of information on lower socioeconomic status groups. This is important, as these adolescents have increased risk of negative online experiences. The current survey aimed to explore Internet use and parental involvement amongst adolescents from areas of socio-economic disadvantage in 30 urban schools across five European countries. A total of 2594 students participated, of whom 90% were 14–16 years. Virtually all adolescents of socioeconomic disadvantage had Internet access, with 88.5% reporting spending more than two hours per day online, often on apps such as Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube. Almost one-third of adolescents did not talk with their parents about their Internet use and almost two-thirds indicated that their parents were only a little or not interested in their Internet use. A consistent finding across countries was that girls more often talked with their parents about their Internet use and more often reported that their parents were interested in their Internet use than boys. The results suggest that parents have an important task in explicitly showing interest in their adolescents’ Internet use, with special attention needed for boys.
Determination of the Characteristics of Non-Stationary Random Processes by Non-Parametric Methods of Decision Theory
Authors: Yesmagambetov Bulat-Batyr
Published: November 2023

This article is devoted to methods of processing random processes. This task becomes particularly relevant in cases where the random process is broadband and non-stationary; then, the measurement of a random process can be associated with an assessment of its probabilistic characteristics. Very often, a non-stationary broadband random process is represented by a single implementation with a priori uncertainty about the type of distribution function. Such random processes occur in information and measuring communication systems in which information is transmitted at a real-time pace (for example, radio telemetry systems in spacecraft). The use of methods of traditional mathematical statistics, for example, maximum likelihood methods, to determine probability characteristics in this case is not possible. In addition, the on-board computing systems of spacecraft operate under conditions of restrictions on mass-dimensional characteristics and energy consumption. Therefore, there is a need to apply accelerated methods of processing measured random processes. This article discusses a method of processing non-stationary broadband random processes based on the use of non-parametric methods of decision theory. An algorithm for dividing the observation interval into stationary intervals using non-parametric Kendall’s statistics is considered, as are methods for estimating probabilistic characteristics on the stationary interval using ordinal statistics. This article presents the results of statistical modeling using the Mathcad program.
Speed Breeding for Crop Improvement and Food Security
Authors: Potts Jesse , Jangra Sumit , Michael Vincent N. , Wu Xingbo
Published: November 2023

Amid a rapidly growing global population and increasing threats to crop yields, this review focuses on Speed Breeding (SB) in crop genetics. It traces SB’s development from carbon arc lamp experiments 150 years ago to its modern use with LED technology which significantly accelerates breeding cycles. SB has applications in genetic mapping, genetic modification, and trait stacking, enhancing crop resilience by leveraging allelic diversity. It aligns well with breeding methods like single plant selection and single seed descent. The integration of SB with gene editing, genotyping, and genomic selection holds great promise. However, SB faces challenges related to infrastructure, genotypic variations, and potential stress responses. In summary, SB is a powerful and promising approach to address food security concerns and advancing crop genetics.
Vitamin D Deficiency as a Risk Factor of Preeclampsia during Pregnancy
Authors: Giourga Chrysoula , Papadopoulou Sousana K. , Voulgaridou Gavriela , Karastogiannidou Calliope , Giaginis Constantinos , Pritsa Agathi
Published: November 2023

A balanced diet is achieved not only via the consumption of a variety of food products but also by ensuring that we take in sufficient quantities the micronutrients necessary for the adequate functioning of the human body, such as vitamins, an important one of which is vitamin D. Vitamin D has been closely linked to bone health. Vitamin D deficiency has often been associated with negative effects concerning several pregnancy adverse outcomes, the most important of which are the birth of SGA newborns, premature birth, and, finally, preeclampsia, which are discussed in this work. The aim of this review is to critically summarize and scrutinize whether the concentration of vitamin D in the blood serum of pregnant women in all its forms may be correlated with the risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy and whether vitamin D levels could act both as a protective agent or as a risk factor or even a prognostic measure of the disease. The association of vitamin D levels with the onset of preeclampsia was examined by searching the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. A total of 31 clinical trials were identified and included in this review, with the aim of summarizing the recent data concerning vitamin D levels and the risk of preeclampsia. Among them, 16 were published in the last five years, and 13 were published within the last a decade. Most studies showed a significant association between vitamin D deficiency and preeclampsia risk. It was also found that the higher the dose, the lower the risk of disease. Of the 31 articles, only 7 of them did not show a significant difference between vitamin D levels and preeclampsia regardless of comorbidity. The results of this review suggest that there is indeed an association between the concentration of vitamin D during pregnancy and the risk of preeclampsia; however, further studies are strongly recommended to derive conclusive evidence.
Recent Advances in the Carotenoids Added to Food Packaging Films: A Review
Authors: Roy Swarup , Deshmukh Ram Kumar , Tripathi Shefali , Gaikwad Kirtiraj K. , Das Sabya Sachi , Sharma Devanshi
Published: November 2023

Food spoilage is one of the key concerns in the food industry. One approach is the improvement of the shelf life of the food by introducing active packaging, and another is intelligent packaging. Detecting packed food spoilage in real-time is key to stopping outbreaks caused by food-borne diseases. Using active materials in packaging can improve shelf life, while the nonharmful color indicator can be useful to trace the quality of the food through simple color detection. Recently, bio-derived active and intelligent packaging has gained a lot of interest from researchers and consumers. For this, the biopolymers and the bioactive natural ingredient are used as indicators to fabricate active packaging material and color-changing sensors that can improve the shelf life and detect the freshness of food in real-time, respectively. Among natural bioactive components, carotenoids are known for their good antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pH-responsive color-indicating properties. Carotenoids are rich in fruits and vegetables and fat-soluble pigments. Including carotenoids in the packaging system improves the film’s physical and functional performance. The recent progress on carotenoid pigment-based packaging (active and intelligent) is discussed in this review. The sources and biological activity of the carotenoids are briefly discussed, and then the fabrication and application of carotenoid-activated packaging film are reviewed. The carotenoids-based packaging film can enhance packaged food’s shelf life and indicate the freshness of meat and vegetables in real-time. Therefore, incorporating carotenoid-based pigment into the polymer matrix could be promising for developing novel packaging materials.
Application of Coating Chitosan Derivatives (N,O–Carboxymethyl Chitosan/Chitosan Oligomer Saccharide) in Combination with Polyvinyl Alcohol Solutions to Preserve Fresh Ngoc Linh Ginseng Quality
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc , Nguyen Trieu , Le Hong Phu , Ta Thi Kieu Hanh , Phan Bach Thang , Ngoc Hanh Nguyen Thi , Bich Hang Phung Thi , Yen Nhi Dinh , Van Toi Vo , Nguyen Hiep Thi , Ngoc Diep Tran Thi
Published: November 2023

The postharvest preservation of Ngoc Linh ginseng (NL ginseng) is essential to retain its quality and sensory values for prolonged storage. In this study, the efficacy of NL ginseng preservation by coating chitosan derivatives in combination with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solutions was investigated under refrigeration conditions (~3 °C; ~40% RH) for 56 days. The effect of the chitosan–based solutions, including N,O–carboxymethyl chitosan (NOCC), chitosan oligomer saccharide (COS), or chitosan (CS), and the blend solutions (NOCC–PVA or COS–PVA) on the coated NL ginsengs was observed during storage. The pH values, viscosity, and film-forming capability of the coating solutions were determined, while the visual appearance, morphology, and mechanical properties of the films formed on glass substrates as a ginseng model for coating were also observed. The appearance, skin lightness, weight loss, sensory evaluation, total saponin content (TSC), total polyphenol content (TPC), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the coated NL ginsengs were evaluated. The findings showed that the observed values of the coated NL ginsengs were better than those of the non-coated samples, with the exception of the COS–coated samples, which had completely negative results. Furthermore, the NOCC–PVA solution exhibited a better preservation effect compared with the COS–PVA one based on the observed indices, except for TPC and TAC, which were not impacted by the coating. Notably, the optimal preservation time was determined to be 35 days. This study presents promising preservation technology using the coating solution of NOCC–PVA, harnessing the synergistic effect of pH 7.4 and the form–firming capacity, to maintain the shelf life, medicinal content, and sensory attributes of NL ginseng.
Exploring the Interactions of Soybean 7S Globulin with Gallic Acid, Chlorogenic Acid and (−)-Epigallocatechin Gallate
Authors: Zhou Siduo , Meng Ling , Lin Yanfei , Dong Xueqian , Dong Mingsheng
Published: November 2023

In this study, the noncovalent interaction mechanisms between soybean 7S globulin and three polyphenols (gallic acid (GA), chlorogenic acid (CA) and (−)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)) were explored and compared using various techniques. Fluorescence experiments showed that GA and EGCG had strong static quenching effects on 7S fluorescence, and that of CA was the result of multiple mechanisms. The interactions caused changes to the secondary and tertiary structure of 7S, and the surface hydrophobicity was decreased. Thermodynamic experiments showed that the combinations of polyphenols with 7S were exothermic processes. Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces were the primary driving forces promoting the binding of EGCG and CA to 7S. The combination of GA was mainly affected by electrostatic interaction. The results showed that the structure and molecular weight of polyphenols play an important role in their interactions. This work is helpful for developing products containing polyphenols and soybean protein.