bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diverse Coordination Chemistry of the Whole Series Rare-Earth L-Lactates: Synthetic Features, Crystal Structure, and Application in Chemical Solution Deposition of Ln2O3 Thin Films
Authors: Gashigullin Ruslan , Kendin Mikhail , Martynova Irina , Tsymbarenko Dmitry
Published: August 2023

Rare-earth (RE, Ln) carboxylates are widely studied as precursors of RE oxide-based nanomaterials; however, no systematic studies of RE L-lactates (HLact = 2-hydroxypropanoic acid) have been reported to date. In the present work, a profound structural investigation of RE L-lactates is carried out. A family of RE lactate complexes of the general formula LnLact3∙nH2O (Ln = La, Ce–Nd, Sm–Lu, Y; n = 2–3) are synthesized and characterized by CHN, TGA, and FTIR as well as by powder and single-crystal XRD methods.The existence of four novel structural types (1-Ln–4-Ln) is revealed. Compounds of the 1-Ln type (Ln = La, Ce, Pr) exhibit a chain polymeric structure, whereas 2-Ln–4-Ln compounds are molecular crystals consisting of dimeric (2-Ln; Ln = La, Ce–Nd) or monomeric (3-Ln–Ln = Sm–Lu, Y; 4-Ln–Ln = Sm–Gd, Y) species. The crystal structures of 1-Ln–4-Ln compounds are discussed in terms of their coordination geometry and supramolecular arrangement. Solutions of yttrium and lanthanum lactates with diethylenetriamine are applied for the chemical deposition of Y2O3 and La2O3 thin films.
Catechins and Selenium Species—How They React with Each Other
Authors: Sentkowska Aleksandra , Pyrzynska Krystyna
Published: August 2023

The combination of selenium and tea infusion, both with antioxidant properties, has potentially complementary mechanisms of action. Se-enriched tea has been considered as a possible Se supplement and a functional beverage to reduce the health risk of Se deficiency. This work investigated the interactions between plant catechins present in tea infusions and selenium species based on changes in the concentration of both reagents, their stability in aqueous solutions, and the possibilities of selenonanoparticles (SeNPs) formation. Selenium species exhibited instability both alone in their standard solutions and in the presence of studied catechins; selenocystine appeared as the most unstable. The recorded UV–Vis absorption spectra indicated the formation of SeNPs in the binary mixtures of catechins and selenite. SeNPs have also formed with diameters smaller than 100 nm when selenite and selenomethionine were added to tea infusions. This is an advantage from the point of view of potential medical applications.
Identification of Bacterial Metabolites Modulating Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Ujlaki Gyula , Kovács Tünde , Vida András , Kókai Endre , Rauch Boglára , Schwarcz Szandra , Mikó Edit , Janka Eszter , Sipos Adrienn , Hegedűs Csaba , Uray Karen , Nagy Péter , Bai Peter
Published: August 2023

Breast cancer patients are characterized by the oncobiotic transformation of multiple microbiome communities, including the gut microbiome. Oncobiotic transformation of the gut microbiome impairs the production of antineoplastic bacterial metabolites. The goal of this study was to identify bacterial metabolites with antineoplastic properties. We constructed a 30-member bacterial metabolite library and screened the library compounds for effects on cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The metabolites were applied to 4T1 murine breast cancer cells in concentrations corresponding to the reference serum concentrations. However, yric acid, glycolic acid, d-mannitol, 2,3-butanediol, and trans-ferulic acid exerted cytostatic effects, and 3-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and vanillic acid exerted hyperproliferative effects. Furthermore, 3-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, 2,3-butanediol, and hydrocinnamic acid inhibited epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) transition. We identified redox sets among the metabolites (d-mannitol—d-mannose, 1-butanol—butyric acid, ethylene glycol—glycolic acid—oxalic acid), wherein only one partner within the set (d-mannitol, butyric acid, glycolic acid) possessed bioactivity in our system, suggesting that changes to the local redox potential may affect the bacterial secretome. Of the nine bioactive metabolites, 2,3-butanediol was the only compound with both cytostatic and anti-EMT properties.
Bismuth Oxide Composite-Based Agricultural Waste for Wound Dressing Applications
Authors: Hassan Mayar , Diab Mohamed , Abd El-Wahab Miral , Hegazi Abdelrahman , Emwas Abdul-Hamid , Jaremko Mariusz , Hagar Mohamed
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to enhance the antimicrobial activity of bagasse paper by coating the paper with bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) and using it to accelerate the process of wound healing. Paper sheets were prepared from sugarcane waste (bagasse). First, the paper sheets were coated with different Bi2O3 concentrations to improve the antimicrobial activity of the paper. After that, the paper sheets were allowed to dry in an oven at 50 °C for 3 h. Then, in vitro antimicrobial activity was evaluated against different microbial species, including Gram-negative bacteria (i.e., Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive bacteria (i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes). The obtained results showed that the paper coated with 25% and 100% Bi2O3 had activity against all models of bacteria; however, the paper coated with 100% Bi2O3 composite had the strongest inhibitory effect. Then, bagasse paper was coated with 100% Bi2O3 and different antibiotics, to investigate their wound-healing potency in a wounded rat model for 14 days. Moreover, the paper coated with 100% Bi2O3 inhibited the cellular migration in vitro. Conclusively, coating paper with Bi2O3 enhances the wound-healing potential when applied to wounds. This impact could be ascribed to Bi2O3’s broad antibacterial activity, which reduced infection and accelerated the healing process.
Exploring Nanocarriers as Treatment Modalities for Skin Cancer
Authors: Adnan Mohammad , Akhter Md. Habban , Afzal Obaid , Altamimi Abdulmalik S. A. , Ahmad Irfan , Alossaimi Manal A. , Jaremko Mariusz , Emwas Abdul-Hamid , Haider Tanweer , Haider Md. Faheem
Published: August 2023

Cancer is a progressive disease of multi-factorial origin that has risen worldwide, probably due to changes in lifestyle, food intake, and environmental changes as some of the reasons. Skin cancer can be classified into melanomas from melanocytes and nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) from the epidermally-derived cell. Together it constitutes about 95% of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) are creditworthy of 99% of NMSC due to the limited accessibility of conventional formulations in skin cancer cells of having multiple obstacles in treatment reply to this therapeutic regime. Despite this, it often encounters erratic bioavailability and absorption to the target. Nanoparticles developed through nanotechnology platforms could be the better topical skin cancer therapy option. To improve the topical delivery, the nano-sized delivery system is appropriate as it fuses with the cutaneous layer and fluidized membrane; thus, the deeper penetration of therapeutics could be possible to reach the target spot. This review briefly outlooks the various nanoparticle preparations, i.e., liposomes, niosomes, ethosomes, transferosomes, transethosomes, nanoemulsions, and nanoparticles technologies tested into skin cancer and impede their progress tend to concentrate in the skin layers. Nanocarriers have proved that they can considerably boost medication bioavailability, lowering the frequency of dosage and reducing the toxicity associated with high doses of the medication.
Enhancing Light Extraction Efficiency in OLED Using Scattering Structure-Embedded DMD-Based Transparent Composite Electrodes
Authors: Choi Geun-Su , Bae Eun-Jeong , Ju Byeong-Kwon , Park Young-Wook
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the application of scattering structures to the metal layer in a DMD (Dielectric/Metal/Dielectric) configuration through plasma treatment. The purpose is to enhance the light extraction efficiency of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Different plasma conditions were explored to create scattering structures on the metal layer. The fabricated devices were characterized for their electrical and optical properties. The results demonstrate that the introduction of scattering structures through plasma treatment effectively improves the light extraction efficiency of OLEDs. Specifically, using O2-plasma treatment on the metal layer resulted in significant enhancements in the total transmittance, haze, and figure of merit. These findings suggest that incorporating scattering structures within the DMD configuration can effectively promote light extraction in OLEDs, leading to enhanced overall performance and light efficiency.
Tailing Optical Pulling Force on a Metal–Dielectric Hybrid Dimer with Electromagnetic Coupling
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Ming , Yu Jin-Jing , Wu Hai-Ping , Zhou Xia , Zhang Tian-Yue , Liu Jian-Ping
Published: August 2023

In this work, we demonstrate that optical pulling forces (OPFs) can be induced by a hybrid dimer consisting of a Si nanoparticle (NP) and a coated nanoparticle with a gain core and Au shell under normal plane wave illumination. Analytical theory reveals that the underlying physical mechanism relies on interactions between the electric dipole (ED) modes excited in the NPs. As compared with the individual NP, it is found that the magnitude of optical force can be enlarged by almost three orders for the Si NP and one order for the coated gain NP in the coupled dimer. In addition, we find that the OPFs exerted on the NPs are heavily dependent on the gain level of the core materials, the incident polarization angle and the sizes of the NPs. More interestingly, we find that the OPF can also be exerted on a trimer system consisting of two identical Si NPs and a coated NP arranged in a line. The related results could be used to propose a versatile platform for manipulating NPs.
Investigation of Structural, Morphological, and Optical Properties of Novel Electrospun Mg-Doped TiO2 Nanofibers as an Electron Transport Material for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Erdogar Kubra , Yucel Ozgun , Oruc Muhammed Enes
Published: August 2023

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are quickly becoming efficient solar cells due to the effective physicochemical properties of the absorber layer. This layer should ideally be placed between a stable hole transport material (HTM) layer and a conductive electron transport material (ETM) layer. These outer layers play a critical role in the current densities and cell voltages of solar cells. In this work, we successfully fabricated Mg-doped TiO2 nanofibers as ETM layers via electrospinning. This study systematically investigates the morphological and optical features of Mg-doped nanofibers as mesoporous ETM layers. The existence of the Mg element in the lattice was confirmed by XRD and XPS. These optical characterizations indicated that Mg doping widened the energy band gap and shifted the edge of the conduction band minimum upward, which enhanced the open circuit voltage (Voc) and short current density (Jsc). The electron-hole recombination rate was lowered, and separation efficiency increased with Mg doping. The results have demonstrated the possibility of improving the efficiency of PSCs with the use of Mg-doped nanofibers as an ETM layer.
Laser-Ablative Synthesis of Silicon–Iron Composite Nanoparticles for Theranostic Applications
Authors: Bubnov Alexander A. , Belov Vladimir S. , Kargina Yulia V. , Tikhonowski Gleb V. , Popov Anton A. , Kharin Alexander Yu. , Shestakov Mikhail V. , Perepukhov Alexander M. , Syuy Alexander V. , Volkov Valentyn S. , Khovaylo Vladimir V. , Klimentov Sergey M. , Kabashin Andrei V. , Timoshenko Victor Yu.
Published: August 2023

The combination of photothermal and magnetic functionalities in one biocompatible nanoformulation forms an attractive basis for developing multifunctional agents for biomedical theranostics. Here, we report the fabrication of silicon–iron (Si-Fe) composite nanoparticles (NPs) for theranostic applications by using a method of femtosecond laser ablation in acetone from a mixed target combining silicon and iron. The NPs were then transferred to water for subsequent biological use. From structural analyses, it was shown that the formed Si-Fe NPs have a spherical shape and sizes ranging from 5 to 150 nm, with the presence of two characteristic maxima around 20 nm and 90 nm in the size distribution. They are mostly composed of silicon with the presence of a significant iron silicide content and iron oxide inclusions. Our studies also show that the NPs exhibit magnetic properties due to the presence of iron ions in their composition, which makes the formation of contrast in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) possible, as it is verified by magnetic resonance relaxometry at the proton resonance frequency. In addition, the Si-Fe NPs are characterized by strong optical absorption in the window of relative transparency of bio-tissue (650–950 nm). Benefiting from such absorption, the Si-Fe NPs provide strong photoheating in their aqueous suspensions under continuous wave laser excitation at 808 nm. The NP-induced photoheating is described by a photothermal conversion efficiency of 33–42%, which is approximately 3.0–3.3 times larger than that for pure laser-synthesized Si NPs, and it is explained by the presence of iron silicide in the NP composition. Combining the strong photothermal effect and MRI functionality, the synthesized Si-Fe NPs promise a major advancement of modalities for cancer theranostics, including MRI-guided photothermal therapy and surgery.
Antimony Selenide Solar Cells Fabricated by Hybrid Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Brito Daniel , Anacleto Pedro , Pérez-Rodríguez Ana , Fonseca José , Santos Pedro , Alves Marina , Cavalli Alessandro , Sharma Deepanjan , Claro Marcel S. , Nicoara Nicoleta , Sadewasser Sascha
Published: August 2023

The fabrication of Sb2Se3 thin-film solar cells deposited by a pulsed hybrid reactive magnetron sputtering (PHRMS) was proposed and examined for different growth conditions. The influence of growth temperature and Se pulse period were studied in terms of morphology, crystal structure, and composition. The Sb2Se3 growth showed to be dependent on the growth temperature, with a larger crystal size for growth at 270 °C. By controlling the Se pulse period, the crystal structure and crystal size could be modified as a function of the supplied Se amount. The solar cell performance for Sb2Se3 absorbers deposited at various temperatures, Se pulse periods and thicknesses were assessed through current-voltage characteristics. A power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 3.7% was achieved for a Sb2Se3 solar cell with 900 nm thickness, Sb2Se3 deposited at 270 °C and Se pulses with 0.1 s duration and period of 0.5 s. Finally, annealing the complete solar cell at 100 °C led to a further improvement of the Voc, leading to a PCE of 3.8%, slightly higher than the best reported Sb2Se3 solar cell prepared by sputtering without post-selenization.
Does a Gluten-Free Diet Improve Quality of Life and Sleep in Patients with Non-Coeliac Gluten/Wheat Sensitivity?
Authors: Cotton Connor , Raju Suneil A. , Ahmed Hamza , Webster Grace , Hallam Rachel , Croall Iain , Coleman Sarah , Trott Nick , Rej Anupam , Shiha Mohamed G. , Aziz Imran , Sanders David S.
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The role of a gluten-free diet (GFD) in Non-Coeliac Gluten/Wheat Sensitivity (NCGWS) is unclear. We present the largest study comparing adherence to a GFD in patients with Coeliac Disease (CD) and NCGWS and assess its impact on quality of life (QoL) and sleep in patients with NCGWS. Methods: Patients with NCGWS at a tertiary centre completed the Coeliac Disease Adherence Test (CDAT), Coeliac Symptom Index (CSI) and Sleep Condition Indicator (SCI). Higher CDAT scores indicate worse adherence, higher CSI scores indicate poorer QoL, and higher SCI scores indicate better sleep. CDAT scores were correlated with CSI and SCI scores. A second group of patients with CD completed the CDAT questionnaire only. Results were compared with the CDAT responses from the NCGWS group. Results: For the NCGWS cohort (n = 125), the median CDAT score was 17/35, indicating poor adherence. The median CSI score was 44/80, with 40% of scores associated with a poor QoL. The median SCI score was 14/32, and DSM-V criteria for insomnia was met by 42% of patients. There was a positive correlation between CSI and CDAT scores (r = 0.59, p < 0.0001) and a negative correlation between SCI and CDAT scores (r = −0.37, p = 0.0002). In the CD cohort (n = 170), the median CDAT score was 13/35. Patients with NCGWS had poorer adherence compared to CD (CDAT: 17.0 vs. 13.0, respectively, p = 0.0001). Conclusion: Patients with NCGWS adhere to a GFD less than those with CD. Poorer adherence to a GFD in patients with NCGWS correlates with a worse QoL and sleep performance.
The Impact of Body Mass Index on In-Hospital Mortality in Post-Cardiac-Arrest Patients—Does Sex Matter?
Authors: Czapla Michał , Kwaśny Adrian , Słoma-Krześlak Małgorzata , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Karniej Piotr , Janczak Sara , Mickiewicz Aleksander , Uchmanowicz Bartosz , Zieliński Stanisław , Zielińska Marzena
Published: August 2023

Background: A number of factors influence mortality in post-cardiac-arrest (CA) patients, nutritional status being one of them. The aim of this study was to assess whether there are sex differences in the prognostic impact of BMI, as calculated on admission to an intensive care unit, on in-hospital mortality in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) survivors. Methods: We carried out a retrospective analysis of data of 129 post-cardiac-arrest patients with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the University Teaching Hospital in Wrocław between 2017 and 2022. Results: Female patients were significantly older than male patients (68.62 ± 14.77 vs. 62.7 ± 13.95). The results of univariable logistic regression analysis showed that BMI was not associated with the odds of in-hospital death in either male or female patients. In an age-adjusted model, age was an independent predictor of the odds of in-hospital death only in male patients (OR = 1.034). In our final multiple logistic regression model, adjusted for the remaining variables, none of the traits analysed were a significant independent predictor of the odds of in-hospital death in female patients, whereas an initial rhythm of ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VF/pVT) was an independent predictor of the odds of in-hospital death in male patients (OR = 0.247). Conclusions: BMI on admission to ICU is not a predictor of the odds of in-hospital death in either male or female SCA survivors.
A Systematic Literature Review of Nutrition Interventions Implemented to Address Food Insecurity as a Social Determinant of Health
Authors: Norris Kennedy , Jilcott Pitts Stephanie , Reis Heidi , Haynes-Maslow Lindsey
Published: August 2023

Background: Policy initiatives have provided funding for non-acute nutrition interventions to address food insecurity as a social determinant of health, but more research is needed to understand the outcomes of these initiatives in order to determine the areas of highest impact. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the outcomes that were assessed in three nutrition interventions (produce prescription programs, medically tailored meals, and community supported agriculture) that aim to address food insecurity as a social determinant of health, and this was undertaken in order to identify future areas of study that can heighten impact. Methods: This systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) criteria. A list of search terms and keywords were compiled by the research team. A Boolean search was conducted from 1 January 2000 to 1 January 2023 in the PubMed advanced search database. Results: A total of 1015 articles were initially pulled from the PubMed database, and, after a screening process, 21 articles were included in our review. Nineteen of the articles focused on adult populations or families and two focused on children. The main outcomes assessed were changes in self-reported dietary intake, while a few of the articles addressed feasibility and cost-related outcomes. Conclusions: More research is needed to assess whether nutritional interventions to address food insecurity as a social determinant of health are feasible and more cost effective in the long term. Additionally, more work should be conducted in pediatric populations, which could have a robust return on investment in terms of both healthcare utilization and healthcare expenditure.
Intake of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HEAL9 Improves Cognition in Moderately Stressed Subjects: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Önning Gunilla , Montelius Caroline , Hillman Magnus , Larsson Niklas
Published: August 2023

Background: The usage of probiotics has expanded beyond the areas of gut and immune health improvement. Several studies have shown the positive impact associated between probiotics and stress, cognition, and mood; a relationship referred to as the gut–brain axis. Method: The aim of this exploratory study was to evaluate the effect of the probiotic strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HEAL9 (LPHEAL9) on the gut–brain axis in subjects with moderate stress. One hundred and twenty-nine subjects aged 21–52 years completed the study, randomized to consume either LPHEAL9 (n = 65) or placebo (n = 64) for 12 weeks. Results: Perceived stress and awakening cortisol were significantly reduced over time in both groups. A significant improvement in four cognition tests after consumption of LPHEAL9 compared to placebo was observed (rapid information processing test, numeric working memory test, paired associated learning, and word recall, p < 0.05). There was a tendency for a significantly better improvement in the LPHEAL9 group for three mood subscales (Confusion–Bewilderment, Anger–Hostility, and Depression–Dejection) and for fewer subjects with poor sleep in the LPHEAL9 group compared to placebo (p < 0.10). Conclusions: Intake of LPHEAL9 significantly improved cognitive functions compared to the placebo, potentially by ameliorating aspects of mood and sleep.
Preparation of Corn Peptides with Anti-Adhesive Activity and Its Functionality to Alleviate Gastric Injury Induced by Helicobacter pylori Infection In Vivo
Authors: Li Guanlong , Liu Xiaolan , Miao Zhengfei , Hu Nan , Zheng Xiqun
Published: August 2023

More than 50% of the world population is infected with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which is classified as group I carcinogen by the WHO. H. pylori surface adhesins specifically recognize gastric mucosal epithelial cells’ (GES-1 cells) receptor to complete the adhesion. Blocking the adhesion with an anti-adhesion compound is an effective way to prevent H. pylori infection. The present study found that corn protein hydrolysate, hydrolyzed by Neutral, effectively alleviated gastric injury induced by H. pylori infection through anti-adhesive and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo. The hydrolysate inhibited H. pylori adhesion to GES-1 cells significantly, and its anti-adhesive activity was 50.44 ± 0.27% at 4 mg/mL, which indicated that the hydrolysate possessed a similar structure to the GES-1 cells’ receptor, and exhibited anti-adhesive activity in binding to H. pylori. In vivo, compared with the H. pylori infection model group, the medium and high dose of the hydrolysate (400–600 mg/kg·bw) significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the amount of H. pylori colonization, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and MPO), chemokines (KC and MCP-1) as well as key metabolites of NF-κB signaling pathway levels (TLR4, MyD88 and NF-κB), and it increased antioxidant enzyme contents (SOD and GSH-Px) and the mitigation of H. pylori-induced pathological changes in the gastric mucosa. Taken together, these results indicated that the hydrolysate intervention can prevent H. pylori-induced gastric injury by anti-adhesive activity and inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway’s induction of inflammation. Hence, the corn protein hydrolysate might act as a potential anti-adhesive agent to prevent H. pylori infection.
Benefits of the Light Consumption of Red Wine in Pain, Tender Points, and Anxiety in Women with Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Study
Authors: González-López-Arza María Victoria , Triviño-Palomo José Vicente , Montanero-Fernández Jesús , Garrido-Ardila Elisa María , González-Sánchez Blanca , Jiménez-Palomares María , Rodríguez-Mansilla Juan
Published: August 2023

Background: Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by chronic widespread pain, as well as anxiety, sadness, and depression. These symptoms are present in most patients and have a negative impact on their daily, family, and social life. The role of neurotransmitters in the pathophysiology of FM has been extensively discussed. The scientific evidence shows that levels of serotonin are decreased in patients with FM. Numerous studies support the beneficial effects that moderate wine consumption has on the body, with cardiovascular, endocrine, bone, and muscle improvements. Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to assess whether light consumption of red wine improves the main symptoms of FM. Methods: The study consisted of an experimental study with a control group with a total of 60 women diagnosed with FM following the American College of Rheumatology’s criteria. The experimental group ingested 15 g of alcohol per day, in the form of red wine, over a period of four weeks. The outcome measures were: the level of pain in tender points, sadness, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. The assessments tools were: tender point graphics, the visual analogue scale (for the assessment of pain and sadness), the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire. The measurements were completed before and after the consumption of red wine. In addition, the differences between groups were evaluated in terms of drug consumption in the pre-intervention and follow-up phases. Results: Statistically significant improvements were obtained in the wine ingestion group for the variables of pain (p = 0.038), tender points (p < 0.001), and anxiety (p = 0.028). An improvement in the mean values was observed in favor of the experimental group for the variables of sadness, depression, and quality of life. The differences observed in the changes seen in the groups that were in favor of the wine ingestion group should not be attributed to the consumption of drugs but to the fact that the experimental group had a light intake of red wine. Conclusions: The results of this pilot study suggest a potential relationship between alcohol intake through the light consumption of red wine as part of the patients’ diet and the improvement of the main symptoms of fibromyalgia. Future studies are necessary to confirm these preliminary data; a bigger sample and a controlled diet should be considered, and the mechanisms through which improvements are achieved should be analyzed.
The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on the Length of Hospitalisation, Intensive Care Unit Admission, and Mortality in COVID-19—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sîrbu Alexandru Constantin , Sabin Octavia , Bocșan Ioana Corina , Vesa Ștefan Cristian , Buzoianu Anca Dana
Published: August 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become a global health crisis and pushed researchers and physicians to discover possible treatments to improve the outcome of their patients. Vitamin D, known for its role in immune system function, has been hypothesized to play a role in COVID-19 treatment. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19, focusing on length of hospital stay (LOS), admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and mortality. Thirteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, and the meta-analysis revealed that high-dose vitamin D supplementation showed potential benefits in reducing the length of hospital stay and ICU admission rates for patients with COVID-19. However, the overall effect on mortality did not reach statistical significance. While this systematic review suggests the potential benefits of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in reducing hospital stays and ICU admission in COVID-19 patients, caution is warranted due to the high heterogeneity and limitations of the included studies. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials with consistent study characteristics are needed to provide more robust evidence regarding the therapeutic benefits of vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19 outcomes.
Unlocking the Power of Late-Evening Snacks: Practical Ready-to-Prescribe Chart Menu for Patients with Cirrhosis
Authors: Leoni Laura , Valoriani Filippo , Barbieri Riccardo , Pambianco Martina , Vinciguerra Martina , Sicuro Chiara , Colecchia Antonio , Menozzi Renata , Ravaioli Federico
Published: August 2023

The efficacy of the late-evening snack (LES) has been extensively studied due to the impact of the longest intermeal duration occurring at night in patients with cirrhosis. While actual clinical guidelines on nutrition in chronic liver disease recommend an LES, no specific nutritional compositions have been reported by the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN). Late-evening snacks vary greatly among studies, including natural foods and/or nutritional supplements, yet oral supplements still need to fully meet the LES’s nutritional composition. In addition, many hepatologists need to gain experience in nutritional approaches and have access to registered dieticians who can help them manage patients with liver disease. Therefore, this review study aims to summarise evidence regarding using LESs and the mechanisms behind long starvation in patients with cirrhosis. It also provides a practical nutritional guide with several LES options based on common natural foods tailored to special patients’ nutritional requirements and geographical backgrounds. In preventing accelerated starvation and related protein malnutrition and sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis, the nutritional composition of LESs is essential. The proper and straightforward application of the LES’s rational nutrition is an advantage to cirrhotic patients and should be carried out by healthcare professionals to enhance the overall liver function and nutritional status of patients with cirrhosis.
Mannose-Functionalized Isoniazid-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Pulmonary Delivery: In Vitro Prospects and In Vivo Therapeutic Efficacy Assessment
Authors: Ahalwat Shaveta , Bhatt Dinesh Chandra , Rohilla Surbhi , Jogpal Vikas , Sharma Kirti , Virmani Tarun , Kumar Girish , Alhalmi Abdulsalam , Alqahtani Ali S. , Noman Omar M. , Almoiliqy Marwan
Published: August 2023

Resistance to isoniazid (INH) is common and increases the possibility of acquiring multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. For this study, isoniazid-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (INH-NLCs) were developed and effectively functionalized with mannose (Man) to enhance the residence time of the drug within the lungs via specific delivery and increase the therapeutic efficacy of the formulation. The mannose-functionalized isoniazid-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (Man-INH-NLC) formulation was evaluated with respect to various formulation parameters, namely, encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL), average particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), in vitro drug release (DR), and release kinetics. The in vitro inhalation behavior of the developed formulation after nebulization was investigated using an Andersen cascade impactor via the estimation of the mass median aerosolized diameter (MMAD) and geometric aerodynamic diameter (GAD) and subsequently found to be suitable for effective lung delivery. An in vivo pharmacokinetic study was carried out in a guinea pig animal model, and it was demonstrated that Man-INH-NLC has a longer residence time in the lungs with improved pharmacokinetics when compared with unfunctionalized INH-NLC, indicating the enhanced therapeutic efficacy of the Man-INH-NLC formulation. Histopathological analysis led us to determine that the extent of tissue damage was more severe in the case of the pure drug solution of isoniazid compared to the Man-INH-NLC formulation after nebulization. Thus, the nebulization of Man-INH-NLC was found to be safe, forming a sound basis for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of the drug for improved management in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV Inhibitory Peptides from Chickpea Proteins (Cicer arietinum L.): Pharmacokinetics, Molecular Interactions, and Multi-Bioactivities
Authors: Mora-Melgem José Antonio , Arámburo-Gálvez Jesús Gilberto , Cárdenas-Torres Feliznando Isidro , Gonzalez-Santamaria Jhonatan , Ramírez-Torres Giovanni Isaí , Arvizu-Flores Aldo Alejandro , Figueroa-Salcido Oscar Gerardo , Ontiveros Noé
Published: August 2023

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) peptides can inhibit dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV), an important type 2 diabetes mellitus therapeutic target. The molecular interactions between the inhibitory peptides and the active site of DPP-IV have not been thoroughly examined, nor have their pharmacokinetic properties. Therefore, the predictions of legumin- and provicilin-derived DPP-IV inhibitory peptides, their molecular interactions with the active site of DPP-IV, and their pharmacokinetic properties were carried out. Ninety-two unique DPP-IV inhibitory peptides were identified. Papain and trypsin were the enzymes with the highest AE (0.0927) and lowest BE (6.8625 × 10−7) values, respectively. Peptide binding energy values ranged from −5.2 to −7.9 kcal/mol. HIS-PHE was the most potent DPP-IV inhibitory peptide and interacts with residues of the active sites S1 (TYR662) and S2 (GLU205/ARG125 (hydrogen bonds: <3.0 Å)), S2 (GLU205/GLU206 (electrostatic interactions: <3.0 Å)), and S2′ pocket (PHE357 (hydrophobic interaction: 4.36 Å)). Most peptides showed optimal absorption (76.09%), bioavailability (89.13%), and were non-toxic (97.8%) stable for gastrointestinal digestion (73.9%). Some peptides (60.86%) could also inhibit ACE-I. Chickpea is a source of non-toxic and bioavailable DPP-IV-inhibitory peptides with dual bioactivity. Studies addressing the potential of chickpea peptides as therapeutic or adjunct agents for treating type 2 diabetes are warranted.
Pharmacological Treatments and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Patients with Chronic Pain
Authors: De Rosa Federica , Giannatiempo Bruno , Charlier Bruno , Coglianese Albino , Mensitieri Francesca , Gaudino Giulia , Cozzolino Armando , Filippelli Amelia , Piazza Ornella , Dal Piaz Fabrizio , Izzo Viviana
Published: August 2023

Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience that affects every aspect of a patient’s life and which may be treated through different pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Analgesics are the drugs most commonly used to treat pain, and in specific situations, the use of opioids may be considered with caution. These drugs, in fact, do not always induce optimal analgesia in patients, and several problems are associated with their use. The purpose of this narrative review is to describe the pharmacological approaches currently used for the management of chronic pain. We review several aspects, from the pain-scale-based methods currently available to assess the type and intensity of pain, to the most frequently administered drugs (non-narcotic analgesics and narcotic analgesics), whose pharmacological characteristics are briefly reported. Overall, we attempt to provide an overview of different pharmacological treatments while also illustrating the relevant guidelines and indications. We then report the strategies that may be used to reduce problems related to opioid use. Specifically, we focus our attention on therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), a tool that could help clinicians select the most suitable drug and dose to be used for each patient. The actual potential of using TDM to optimize and personalize opioid-based pain treatments is finally discussed based on recent scientific reports.
Advances in Mitochondria-Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Bottani Emanuela , Brunetti Dario
Published: August 2023

Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that play a crucial role in numerous cellular activities [...]
Fiber Bragg Grating Bonding Characterization under Long-Period Cyclic Loading
Authors: Brindisi Angela , Vendittozzi Cristian , Bellini Costanzo , Di Cocco Vittorio Di , Travascio Lidia , Di Palma Luigi Di , Belardo Marika , Concilio Antonio
Published: August 2023

The Smart Landing Gear system to be developed in the framework of the ANGELA project provides the strain measurements on landing gear structure at landings, and this system should be maintained efficiently under operational conditions. It is intended to assess the relevance of Fiber Bragg Gratings for in-flight testing. To assess the capabilities of the FBG bonding and to analyze the strain transmission conditions from the host structure to the FBG through the bonding layer during the operational phases of landing gears, a long-period cyclic loading test campaign on the bonding layer itself was performed. The primary objective of this fatigue-like test was to prove the ability of FBG sensors to withstand the operational life-cycle of landing gear while providing the same strain transfer function throughout the entire cycle; the secondary objective was to select the most suitable fiber-coating and bonding agents for this application. This document describes the execution and results of the fatigue-like test, intended as a preparatory test campaign to support the preliminary design activities of the Smart Landing System.
Non-Paraxial Effects in the Laser Beams Sharply Focused to Skin Revealed by Unidirectional Helmholtz Equation Approximation
Authors: Bulygin Andrey , Meglinski Igor , Kistenev Yury
Published: August 2023

Laser beams converging at significant focusing angles have diverse applications, including quartz-enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy, high spatial resolution imaging, and profilometry. Due to the limited applicability of the paraxial approximation, which is valid solely for smooth focusing scenarios, numerical modeling becomes necessary to achieve optimal parameter optimization for imaging diagnostic systems that utilize converged laser beams. We introduce a novel methodology for the modeling of laser beams sharply focused on the turbid tissue-like scattering medium by employing the unidirectional Helmholtz equation approximation. The suggested modeling approach takes into account the intricate structure of biological tissues, showcasing its ability to effectively simulate a wide variety of random multi-layered media resembling tissue. By applying this methodology to the Gaussian-shaped laser beam with a parabolic wavefront, the prediction reveals the presence of two hotspots near the focus area. The close-to-maximal intensity hotspot area has a longitudinal size of about 3–5 μm and a transversal size of about 1–2 μm. These values are suitable for estimating spatial resolution in tissue imaging when employing sharply focused laser beams. The simulation also predicts a close-to-maximal intensity hotspot area with approximately 1 μm transversal and longitudinal sizes located just behind the focus distance for Bessel-shaped laser beams with a parabolic wavefront. The results of the simulation suggest that optical imaging methods utilizing laser beams with a wavefront produced by an axicon lens would exhibit a limited spatial resolution. The wavelength employed in the modeling studies to evaluate the sizes of the focus spot is selected within a range typical for optical coherence tomography, offering insights into the limitation of spatial resolution. The key advantage of the unidirectional Helmholtz equation approximation approach over the paraxial approximation lies in its capability to simulate the propagation of a laser beam with a non-parabolic wavefront.
Examining the Hydration Behavior of Aqueous Calcium Chloride (CaCl2) Solution via Atomistic Simulations
Authors: Yan Lida , Balasubramanian Ganesh
Published: August 2023

Equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations are performed to examine the hydration behavior of Ca2+ and Cl− across a wide range of salt concentrations (from 1 wt.% to 60 wt.% CaCl2) in an aqueous solution. The predicted radial distribution functions (RDFs) and coordination numbers (CNs) of Ca2+–water, Cl−–water, and Ca2+–Cl− agree with the previous studies conducted at concentrations below the solubility limit at room temperature. The hydration limit of aqueous calcium chloride solution is identified at 10 wt.% CaCl2 as the CNs remain constant below it. Beyond the bulk solubility limit ~44.7 wt.% CaCl2, a noticeable decrease in the CN of Cl− and water is recorded, implying the saturation of the solution. The solvating water molecules decrease with increasing salt concentration, which can be attributed to the growth in the number of ion pairs.
Genebanks at Risk: Hazard Assessment and Risk Management of National and International Genebanks
Authors: Herbold Theresa , Engels Johannes M. M.
Published: August 2023

Genebanks are crucial for safeguarding global crop diversity but are themselves exposed to several risks. However, a scientific basis for identifying, assessing, and managing risks is still lacking. Addressing these research gaps, this study provides risk analysis for three key risk groups: natural hazards, political risks, and financial risks, carried out on a sample of 80 important national and international genebanks, comprising at least 4.78 million accessions or roughly 65% of the reported total of ex situ conserved accessions worldwide. The assessment tool of Munich Re “Natural Hazards Edition” allowed a location-specific comparison of the natural hazard exposure. Results showed that genebanks in the Asia-Pacific region are most exposed to natural hazards, while institutions in African and some Asian countries are rather vulnerable to political risks. Financing is a major problem for national genebanks in developing countries, whereas the Global Crop Diversity Trust achieved considerable financial security for international genebanks. Large differences in the risk exposure of genebanks exist, making a location- and institution-specific risk assessment indispensable. Moreover, there is significant room for improvement with respect to quality and risk management at genebanks. Transferring risks of genebanks to third parties is underdeveloped and should be used more widely.
Genetic Diversity and Relationship of Shanlan Upland Rice Were Revealed Based on 214 Upland Rice SSR Markers
Authors: Li Rongju , Huang Yinling , Yang Xinsen , Su Meng , Xiong Huaiyang , Dai Yang , Wu Wei , Pei Xinwu , Yuan Qianhua
Published: August 2023

Shanlan upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a unique upland rice variety cultivated by the Li nationality for a long time, which has good drought resistance and high utilization value in drought resistance breeding. To explore the origin of Shanlan upland rice and its genetic relationship with upland rice from other geographical sources, 214 upland rice cultivars from Southeast Asia and five provinces (regions) in southern China were used to study genetic diversity by using SSR markers. Twelve SSR primers were screened and 164 alleles (Na) were detected, with the minimum number of alleles being 8 and the maximum number of alleles being 23, with an average of 13.667. The analysis of genetic diversity and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that the differences among the materials mainly came from the individuals of upland rice. The results of gene flow and genetic differentiation revealed the relationship between the upland rice populations, and Hainan Shanlan upland rice presumably originated from upland rice in Guangdong province, and some of them were genetically differentiated from Hunan upland rice. It can be indirectly proved that the Li nationality in Hainan is a descendant of the ancient Baiyue ethnic group, which provides circumstantial evidence for the migration history of the Li nationality in Hainan, and also provides basic data for the advanced protection of Shanlan upland rice, and the innovative utilization of germplasm resources.
Seed Halopriming: A Promising Strategy to Induce Salt Tolerance in Indonesian Pigmented Rice
Authors: Purwestri Yekti Asih , Nurbaiti Siti , Putri Sekar Pelangi Manik , Wahyuni Ignasia Margi , Yulyani Siti Roswiyah , Sebastian Alfino , Nuringtyas Tri Rini , Yamaguchi Nobutoshi
Published: August 2023

Unfavorable environmental conditions and climate change impose stress on plants, causing yield losses worldwide. The Indonesian pigmented rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars Cempo Ireng Pendek (black rice) and Merah Kalimantan Selatan (red rice) are becoming popular functional foods due to their high anthocyanin contents and have great potential for widespread cultivation. However, their ability to grow on marginal, high-salinity lands is limited. In this study, we investigated whether seed halopriming enhances salt tolerance in the two pigmented rice cultivars. The non-pigmented cultivars IR64, a salt-stress-sensitive cultivar, and INPARI 35, a salt tolerant, were used as control. We pre-treated seeds with a halopriming solution before germination and then exposed the plants to a salt stress of 150 mM NaCl at 21 days after germination using a hydroponic system in a greenhouse. Halopriming was able to mitigate the negative effects of salinity on plant growth, including suppressing reactive oxygen species accumulation, increasing the membrane stability index (up to two-fold), and maintaining photosynthetic pigment contents. Halopriming had different effects on the accumulation of proline, in different rice varieties: the proline content increased in IR64 and Cempo Ireng Pendek but decreased in INPARI 35 and Merah Kalimantan Selatan. Halopriming also had disparate effects in the expression of stress-related genes: OsMYB91 expression was positively correlated with salt treatment, whereas OsWRKY42 and OsWRKY70 expression was negatively correlated with this treatment. These findings highlighted the potential benefits of halopriming in salt-affected agro-ecosystems.
Effect of Two Different Ageing Exposures on the Colour Stability of Transparent Polyurethane Finishing
Authors: Slabejová Gabriela , Vidholdová Zuzana , Šmidriaková Mária
Published: August 2023

This paper deals with the influence of dark and light exposure on the colour change of a transparent two-component polyurethane surface finish. The surface finish with polyacrylic and aldehyde resin was applied to the surfaces of untreated and hydrothermally treated European beech, alder, Norway maple, and Paper birch wood. The test specimens were deposited indoors for 60 days. The colour values (lightness L*, redness + a*, yellowness + b*, chroma C*, hue angle h°) were expressed in the CIELAB system. The results showed that the colour difference of the finish surfaces of all hydrothermally treated wood species was 27–50% lower after the dark than when exposed to light. In the case of finished untreated wood, the colour difference was 51–73% lower after the dark than light exposure. Only the finished untreated and hydrothermally treated Norway maple wood surfaces showed similar and significant changes after both dark and light exposure. The lower value of the colour difference of the finished hydrothermally treated wood was due to the fact that steaming wood with saturated water steam has a positive effect on the overall colour stability of the finish and partial resistance to the initiation of photolytic reactions caused by light.