bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Unbiased Approach to Identifying Cellular Reprogramming-Inducible Enhancers
Authors: Klagkou Eleftheria , Valakos Dimitrios , Foutadakis Spyros , Polyzos Alexander , Papadopoulou Angeliki , Vatsellas Giannis , Thanos Dimitris
Published: December 2024

Cellular reprogramming of somatic cells towards induced pluripotency is a multistep stochastic process mediated by the transcription factors Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc (OSKM), which orchestrate global epigenetic and transcriptional changes. We performed a large-scale analysis of integrated ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq and RNA-seq data and revealed the spatiotemporal highly dynamic pattern of OSKM DNA binding during reprogramming. We found that OSKM show distinct temporal patterns of binding to different classes of pluripotency-related enhancers. Genes involved in reprogramming are regulated by the coordinated activity of multiple enhancers, which are sequentially bound by OSKM for strict transcriptional control. Based on these findings, we developed an unbiased approach to identify Reprogramming-Inducible Enhancers (RIEs), constructed enhancer-traps and isolated cells undergoing reprogramming in real time. We used a representative RIE taken from the Upp1 gene fused to Gfp and isolated cells at different time-points during reprogramming and found that they have unique developmental capacities as they are reprogrammed with high efficiency due to their distinct molecular signatures. In conclusion, our experiments have led to the development of an unbiased method to identify and isolate reprogrammable cells in real time by exploiting the functional dynamics of OSKM, which can be used as efficient reprogramming biomarkers.
Molecular Structure of Paraoxonase-1 and Its Modifications in Relation to Enzyme Activity and Biological Functions—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Lewoń-Mrozek Dominika , Kurzynoga Julia , Jędrzejewski Piotr , Kędzierska Karolina , Partyka Alicja , Kuriata-Kordek Magdalena , Ściskalska Milena
Published: December 2024

PON1 is a Ca2+-dependent enzyme that indicates a hydrolytic activity towards a broad spectrum of substrates. The mechanism of hydrolysis catalyzed by this enzyme is poorly understood. It was shown that the active site of PON1 is highly dynamic. The catalytic center of this enzyme consists of side chains of amino acids binding two calcium ions, from which the first one performs a structural function and the other one is responsible for the catalytic properties of PON1. This review summarizes available information on the structure of PONs, the role of amino acids located in the active site in specificity, and multiple substrate affinity of enzymes for understanding and explaining the basis of the physiological function of PONs. Moreover, in this paper, we described the changes in the structure of PONs induced by environmental and genetic factors and their association with diseases. The detoxification efficiency depends on the polymorphism of the PON1 gene, especially Q192R. However, data on the association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the PON1 gene and cardiovascular or neurodegenerative diseases are insufficient. The reviewed papers may confirm that PON1 is a very promising tool for diagnostics, but further studies are required.
Calcium Ions in the Physiology and Pathology of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Pikor Damian , Hurła Mikołaj , Słowikowski Bartosz , Szymanowicz Oliwia , Poszwa Joanna , Banaszek Natalia , Drelichowska Alicja , Jagodziński Paweł P. , Kozubski Wojciech , Dorszewska Jolanta
Published: December 2024

Calcium ions play a key role in the physiological processes of the central nervous system. The intracellular calcium signal, in nerve cells, is part of the neurotransmission mechanism. They are responsible for stabilizing membrane potential and controlling the excitability of neurons. Calcium ions are a universal second messenger that participates in depolarizing signal transduction and contributes to synaptic activity. These ions take an active part in the mechanisms related to memory and learning. As a result of depolarization of the plasma membrane or stimulation of receptors, there is an extracellular influx of calcium ions into the cytosol or mobilization of these cations inside the cell, which increases the concentration of these ions in neurons. The influx of calcium ions into neurons occurs via plasma membrane receptors and voltage-dependent ion channels. Calcium channels play a key role in the functioning of the nervous system, regulating, among others, neuronal depolarization and neurotransmitter release. Channelopathies are groups of diseases resulting from mutations in genes encoding ion channel subunits, observed including the pathophysiology of neurological diseases such as migraine. A disturbed ability of neurons to maintain an appropriate level of calcium ions is also observed in such neurodegenerative processes as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and epilepsy. This review focuses on the involvement of calcium ions in physiological and pathological processes of the central nervous system. We also consider the use of calcium ions as a target for pharmacotherapy in the future.
Phenylalanine Regulates Milk Protein Synthesis via LAT1–mTOR Signaling Pathways in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Guo Long , Zheng Chen , Chen Jiao , Du Ruifang , Li Fei
Published: December 2024

Phenylalanine (Phe) is a potentially limiting amino acid for lactating cows. The mechanism by which Phe regulates milk protein synthesis remains unclear. The present study elucidates the mechanisms by which phenylalanine affects milk protein synthesis, amino acid utilization, and related signaling pathways in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs). The BMECs were treated with five concentrations (0, 0.22, 0.44, 0.88, 1.76 mM, and serum free). Rapamycin inhibitors and RNA interference (RNAi) were used to inhibit the phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and the expression of relevant amino acid transporters, respectively. The results showed that 4×Phe (0.88 mM) significantly increased (p < 0.05) both the mRNA and protein expression of α-casein (CSN1S1), β-casein (CSN2), and κ-casein (CSN3), as well as L-type amino acid transporter-1 (LAT1) mRNA expression. Protein expression and modification assays of mTOR-related proteins showed that 4×Phe could increase (p < 0.05) the expression of α-casein and eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein-1 (4EBP1) and tended to increase the expression of ribosomal protein S6 protein kinase (S6K1, p = 0.054). The general control nonderepressible 2 (GCN2) signaling pathway factor, eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2α), was downregulated by 4×Phe treatment (p < 0.05). The rapamycin inhibition test showed that Phe regulated casein synthesis via the mTOR signaling pathway. RNAi experiments showed that LAT1 mediated the entry of Phe into cells. Moreover, 4×Phe treatment tended to decrease (0.05 < p < 0.10) the consumption of valine, leucine, histidine, tyrosine, cysteine, alanine, asparagine, and serine in the medium. Collectively, phenylalanine enhanced α-casein synthesis by regulating the phosphorylation of 4EBP1 and eIF2α and promoting the formation of the mTOR-centered casein translation initiation complex.
Circadian Rhythms of Clock Genes After Transplantation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Horiguchi Michiko , Yoshihara Kenichi , Watanabe Kenji , Tsurudome Yuya , Mizukami Yoichi , Ushijima Kentaro
Published: December 2024

Regenerative therapy involving stem cell transplantation has become an option for the radical treatment of diabetes mellitus. Disruption in the clock genes of stem cells affects the homeostasis of transplanted tissues. We examined the circadian rhythm of genes in transplanted adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells derived from a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM-ADSC). The clock genes (PER2, CLOCK1, CRY1, and ARNTL[BMAL1]) exhibited similar daily fluctuations in phase and amplitude between a group transplanted with adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells derived from a healthy individual (N-ADSC) and a group transplanted with T2DM-ADSC. The findings demonstrated that clock genes in stem cells are synchronized with those in living organisms. Next-generation sequencing was then employed to categorize genes that exhibited variation in expression between N-ADSC and T2DM-ADSC. MTATP8P1 and NDUFA7_2 gene expression was significantly reduced at two time points (ZT6 and ZT18), and daily fluctuations were lost. The present study reports, for the first time, that the circadian rhythms of MTATP8P1 and NDUFA7_2, genes involved in mitochondrial processes, are altered in T2DM-ADSC.
Could APTIMA mRNA Assay Contribute to Predicting Cervical Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Co-Infections? A Colposcopy Population Study
Authors: Valasoulis George , Pouliakis Abraham , Magaliou Ioulia , Papoutsis Dimitrios , Daponte Nikoletta , Margioula-Siarkou Chrysoula , Androutsopoulos Georgios , Daponte Alexandros , Michail Georgios
Published: December 2024

In addition to chronic hrHPV anogenital infection, continuing inflammatory cervical changes are intrinsic in the development of precancerous lesions. In younger women, much of this inflammatory background parallels the progressive maturation of squamous metaplasia, often rendering treatment interventions redundant; however, patients with persistent cervical precancer, as well as those harboring invasive bacterial pathogens, might benefit from controlling the active inflammatory process by shortening the HPV natural cycle and avoiding subsequent cervical surgery. In a colposcopy population of 336 predominantly young asymptomatic individuals, we explored the impact of molecularly detected bacterial STIs on HPV DNA and APTIMA positivity rates using validated assays. In the multivariable analysis, several largely anticipated epidemiological factors were related to STI positivity. In this cohort, the HPV DNA test illustrated better performance for the prediction of STI positivity than the corresponding APTIMA test (sensitivity 52.94% vs. 33.82%), while inversely, the APTIMA test was more indicative of bacterial STI negativity than the HPV DNA test (specificity 77% vs. 60%). In addition, no significant differences between these two molecular assays were documented in terms of PPV, NPV, and overall accuracy. Despite the high Ureaplasma urealyticum and low Chlamydia trachomatis prevalence recorded in this study’s population, which is among the first assessing the co-variation of bacterial STI expression with established HPV biomarkers, the APTIMA assay did not predict concurrent bacterial STIs superiorly compared with an established HPV DNA assay.
Eriophyes pouteriae sp. nov., a New Mite Species Infesting Pouteria sapota
Authors: De Giosa Marcello , de Lillo Enrico , Tassi Aline D. , Revynthi Alexandra M. , de Andrade Daniel J. , Ochoa Ronald , Yang Xiangbing , Carrillo Daniel
Published: December 2024

Pouteria sapota, or “mamey sapote”, is a tropical fruit tree native to Central America and Southern Mexico, producing sweet, nutrient and vitamin-rich fruit. Several insect pests are known to infest P. sapota, but none have been associated with plant growth alterations. Eriophyoid mites are well known to cause plant malformations, but mites that cause this type of damage to mamey sapote have not been reported. Trees with abnormal leaf growth, including stunted leaves, outward curling, leaf yellowing, and diminishing overall tree vigor, were found in multiple locations in Southern Florida and one location in Brazil. Numerous plant samples were examined for the presence of minute eriophyoid-like mites, and a new species was found. It was morphologically described, and DNA fragments of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), the nuclear subunit D2 region in 28S rDNA, and the ITS nuclear regions were PCR-amplified and sequenced. Morphological and molecular descriptions of the new species, named E. pouteriae sp. nov., are provided to aid the identification and future detection of this mite. Even though several species within the genus Eriophyes have been reported on other Sapotaceae species, this is the first eriophyoid mite known to be associated with mamey sapote.
Wound Healing Complications After Sternotomy—Causes, Prevention, and Treatment—A New Look at an Old Problem
Authors: Jęczmyk Agata , Krych Sebastian , Jekiełek Małgorzata , Jurkiewicz Michał , Kowalczyk Paweł , Kramkowski Karol , Hrapkowicz Tomasz
Published: December 2024

Median sternotomy is one of the most common procedures in cardiac surgery. This corresponds to the relatively high frequency of infections where surgical incisions are performed. In the prevention of healing disorders, the medical staff intervention is important, as is the patient. The management of wound infection after sternotomy requires a holistic approach. It requires the implementation of adequate antibiotic therapy, surgical treatment of the wound, and, if necessary, reconstruction of tissue defects using skin, muscle, and skin–muscle grafts or greater omentum. The prevention of surgical site infection should be based on asepsis and antisepsis at every stage of surgical treatment; the elimination of modifiable risk factors; and an appropriate, staged, and tension-free technique of chest closure. The described actions are aimed at avoiding the most serious complication associated with a high mortality rate in the form of mediastinitis. The therapeutic procedures are strictly dependent on the degree of tissue involvement and the presented clinical manifestation. During the preparation of this manuscript, scientific publications available on the Pubmed platform were analyzed. The scope of the search was limited to the years 2014–2024. The key words were “sternotomy wound infection”. A total of 114 publications were analyzed, and 56 of them were included. A total of 23 papers were used to discuss the topic.
Five-Year Outcomes of Deep Sclerectomy in Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma Compared to Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Fiore Carlo , Shang Xiao , Lincke Joel-Benjamin , Häner Nathanael Urs , Zinkernagel Martin Sebastian , Unterlauft Jan Darius
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the five-year outcomes of deep sclerectomy (DS) in patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods: This retrospective, observational, unicentric study analyzed POAG and PEXG patients. Intraocular pressure (IOP), the number of IOP-lowering medications, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, the number of postoperative interventions, surgical success rates, and secondary surgery rates were evaluated at baseline and during follow-up appointments. Results: A total of 109 POAG and 153 PEXG eyes were included. Over the 5-year follow-up, IOP decreased in both groups (p = 0.17), from 22.8 ± 0.7 to 13.3 ± 0.6 mmHg (p < 0.001; POAG) and from 24.3 ± 0.8 to 16.6 ± 1.2 mmHg (p < 0.001; PEXG). The number of IOP-lowering medications decreased comparably (p = 0.99), from 3.1 ± 0.1 to 1.7 ± 0.3 (p = 0.001; POAG) and from 3.4 ± 0.1 to 1.7 ± 0.2 (p < 0.001; PEXG). Peripapillary RNFL thickness decreased in both groups (p = 0.31), from 60.6 ± 1.9 to 54.2 ± 2.4 µm (p < 0.001; POAG) and from 63.1 ± 1.7 to 58.0 ± 2.3 µm (p < 0.001; PEXG). The 5-year complete success rates were 33% and 12% for the POAG and PEXG groups, respectively (p = 0.01). The qualified success rates were 63% and 40% (p = 0.03). Secondary glaucoma surgery was required in 8% of POAG eyes and 21% of PEXG eyes (p = 0.04). Conclusions: DS resulted in comparable results for IOP, medications, and RNFL development in the PEXG and POAG groups but in less favorable outcomes concerning surgical success and further necessary repeated glaucoma surgery in patients with PEXG over the 5-year follow-up period.
Strain Analysis for Early Detection of Fibrosis in Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: Insights from a Preliminary Study
Authors: Pergola Valeria , Martini Marika , Amato Filippo , Cozac Dan Alexandru , Deola Petra , Rigato Ilaria , Mattesi Giulia , Savo Maria Teresa , Lassandro Eleonora , Marzari Vittorio , Corradin Simone , De Conti Giorgio , Perazzolo Marra Martina , Motta Raffaella , Bauce Barbara
Published: December 2024

Background: Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetic disorder characterized by fibrofatty replacement of myocardial tissue, predominantly affecting the right ventricle (RV), but often involving the left ventricle (LV) as well. The early detection of fibrosis, crucial for risk stratification, has been enhanced by advanced imaging techniques. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) has shown promise as a surrogate marker for late enhancement (LE) in identifying myocardial fibrosis, yet precise cut-off values for strain are lacking. The aim of the study is to evaluate LV strain as a predictor of LE in ACM and to define strain cut-offs for early fibrosis detection, enhancing non-invasive diagnostic accuracy. Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 64 patients diagnosed with ACM. Echocardiographic analysis using speckle-tracking echocardiography was performed to assess LV strain. LE was evaluated through cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) or via cardiac computed tomography (CCT) in cases with CMR contraindications. The study aimed to correlate regional LV strain values with the presence of LE, identifying cut-off values predictive of fibrosis. Results: The study found significant correlations between reduced LV strain values and the presence of LE, particularly in the anterolateral and inferolateral segments (p < 0.05). Specific strain thresholds, such as those for segment 12 (p = 0.02) and segment 17 (p = 0.03), were identified as predictive markers for LE. These findings suggest that strain imaging could serve as a non-invasive tool for the early detection of myocardial fibrosis in ACM patients. Conclusions: LV strain analysis offers potential as a non-invasive surrogate marker for myocardial fibrosis in ACM. Incorporating strain imaging into routine echocardiographic evaluations could improve early diagnosis and risk stratification, guiding patient management.
Peptide Hydrogel for Sustained Release of Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 In Vitro
Authors: Wang Dalin , Qi Guangyan , Zhang Mingcai , Carlson Brandon , Gernon Matthew , Burton Douglas , Sun Xiuzhi Susan , Wang Jinxi
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to investigate the impact of varying the formulation of a specific peptide hydrogel (PepGel) on the release kinetics of rhBMP-2 in vitro. Three PepGel formulations were assessed: (1) 50% v/v (peptides volume/total volume) PepGel, where synthetic peptides were mixed with crosslinking reagents and rhBMP-2 solution; (2) 67% v/v PepGel; (3) 80% v/v PepGel. Each sample was loaded with 12 µg of rhBMP-2 and incubated in PBS. Released rhBMP-2 was quantified by ELISA at 1 h, 6 h, and 1, 2, 4, 7, 10, 14, and 21 days. To explore how PepGel formulations influence rhBMP-2 release, the gel porosities, swelling ratios, and mechanical properties of the three PepGel formulations were quantitatively analyzed. The results showed that rhBMP-2 encapsulated with 50% v/v PepGel exhibited a sustained release over the 21-day experiment, while the 67% and 80% v/v PepGels demonstrated significantly lower rhBMP-2 release rates compared to the 50% formulation after day 7. Higher histological porosity of PepGel was significantly correlated with increased rhBMP-2 release rates. Conversely, the swelling ratio and elastic modulus of the 50% v/v PepGel were significantly lower than that of the 67% and 80% v/v formulations. In conclusion, this study indicates that varying the formulation of crosslinked PepGel can control rhBMP-2 release rates in vitro by modulating gel porosity, swelling ratio, and mechanical properties. Encapsulation with 50% v/v PepGel offers a sustained rhBMP-2 release pattern in vitro; if replicated in vivo, this could mitigate the adverse effects associated with burst release of rhBMP-2 in clinical applications.
Reinforcement-Learning-Based Synthesis of Custom Approximate Parallel Prefix Adders
Authors: Stefanidis Apostolos , Dimitrakopoulos Giorgos
Published: December 2024

Approximate hardware units compute a sufficiently accurate result rather than a fully accurate one using fewer transistors or equivalently logic gates than their accurate counterparts. This approach significantly saves energy while maintaining acceptable application-level quality. In this work, we focus on synthesizing custom approximate parallel prefix adders tailored to specific applications. The introduced reinforcement learning (RL) framework co-optimizes application performance and hardware complexity. An RL agent learns approximate addition strategies by exploring the entire design space and receiving feedback from hardware synthesis and application performance. Experimental results demonstrate that the synthesized adders can reduce area and power consumption by 12% and 10%, respectively, on average without compromising the error behavior of the application, or can significantly improve the application’s error metrics without degrading area and power consumption for a variety of practical applications.
Identifying the Key Protection Areas of Alpine Marsh Wetlands in the Qinghai Qilian Mountains, China: An Ecosystem Patterns–Characteristics–Functions Combined Method
Authors: Wang Lei , Mao Xufeng , Yu Hongyan , Zhao Baowei , Tang Wenjia , Li Hongyan , Wang Xianying , Zhou Nan
Published: December 2024

The alpine marsh wetlands in the Qilian Mountains of Qinghai (QMQ) are under constant threat from the effects of climate change and human activities. Identifying the key ecological protection areas (KEPAs) of marsh wetlands is the prerequisite for formulating protection strategies and executing spatial planning programs. The current study developed a novel method to identify the KEPAs of marsh wetlands by following the ecosystem pattern–characteristics–functions (EPCFs) combined method and the ecological source–ecological corridor–ecological node research paradigm. More specifically, an evaluation system for ecological resistance was constructed by integrating the drivers of EPCFs in the marsh wetlands. Additionally, the marsh wetland degradation disturbances were analyzed through the drivers of EPCFs incorporated with a field survey. The findings indicated the following: (1) The marsh wetlands had a total water yield of approximately 3.96 × 108 m3. The soil conservation rate and habitat quality per unit area were calculated to be 52.92 t·hm−2·a−1 and 0.992, respectively, with higher values observed on the southern bank and lower values on the northern bank of the river in the QMQ. (2) The KEPAs for the marsh wetlands covered a total extent of 996.53 km2 in the QMQ, encompassing 40 ecological sources, 39 ecological corridors, and 40 ecological nodes, predominantly located in the river source regions. (3) The KEPAs were restructured into an ecological framework comprising two ecological axes, four ecological belts, four ecological cores, and multiple nodes in the QMQ. In response to the factors contributing to the degradation of marsh wetlands, adaptive measures including prioritizing natural restoration, modifying grazing strategies, executing ecological restoration projects as a minimum, and designating protected areas have been recommended. This research could contribute to enhancing the efficiency of regional territorial planning and offer a theoretical foundation for improving the ecological protection framework of regional marsh wetlands.
Evaluation of Selected Folk Herbs on the Fertility of Sprague Dawley Male Rats: Biochemical, Histological, and Molecular Investigations
Authors: Khalaf Rana R. , Khazaal Salma , Abouzeinab Noura S. , Khalil Mahmoud I.
Published: December 2024

Scientists have shown great interest in traditional plant extracts, particularly Lepidium sativum (LS), Origanum majorana (OM), Ferula hermonis (FH), and Eruca sativa (ES), which are frequ ently used to improve health. Recently, attention has been directed toward their influence on spermatogenesis and male fertility. Hence, the objective of this study was to explore their impact on male rats’ fertility. Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC) were determined, along with the identification and quantification of phenolic compounds. Oral administration of aqueous extracts was performed individually or as a mixture (MIX) at a dose of 100 mg/kg in 28 male Sprague Dawley rats over a 60-day period. Organ weight, sex hormone concentrations, sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers, histological and morphometric analysis, and protein expression levels were investigated. OM and MIX showed the highest TPC and antioxidant activities, and MIX possessed the highest polyphenolic constituents. Elevated serum testosterone, epididymal sperm concentration, testes glutathione levels, and histomorphometric parameters were manifested in all groups, especially in MIX. MIX group also displayed elevated levels of vimentin, protein kinase B, and mTOR expression in the testes, complemented by declined expression of Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN). In conclusion, these findings propose that these extracts, especially MIX followed by OM, enhance fertility by stimulating spermatogenesis.
Elastic Recovery In-Die During Cyclic Loading of Solid Anaerobic Digestate
Authors: Łysiak Grzegorz , Kulig Ryszard
Published: December 2024

Anaerobic digestate represents a valuable organic by-product, with one of the main challenges being its enhanced utilization. Pelletization offers potential benefits by improving the digestate’s storability, facilitating transport, and significantly expanding its application as a fertilizer or biofuel. Understanding the mechanisms of densification and their impact on the final product quality is essential and served as the inspiration for this research. Its primary focus was stress relaxation and the subsequent elongation of pellets within the compaction chamber (in-die). It investigated the hypothesis that elastic recovery, resulting from internal stress relaxation once the compressive force is removed, has direct implications for pellet quality. The investigations were conducted using a Zwick universal machine. Samples of digestate with varied moisture levels, i.e., 10, 13, 16, 19, and 22%, were loaded with amplitudes of 8, 11, 14, 17, and 20 kN. Ten loading and unloading cycles were employed. Elastic recovery (in-die) (ERin-die) in the investigated digestate increased with rising MC and compaction pressure but decreased with increasing cycle number. There was little correlation between ERin-die and pellet strength. Permanent strain energy exerted the greatest influence on pellet quality. Permanent strain energy had the greatest influence on pellet quality. Examining hysteresis loop behavior emerged as a promising area for further research to better understand springback phenomena.
Composites Based on Natural Zeolites and Green Materials for the Immobilization of Toxic Elements in Contaminated Soils: A Review
Authors: Senila Marin , Cadar Oana
Published: December 2024

Soil contamination by toxic elements is a global problem, and the remediation of contaminated soils requires complex and time-consuming technology. Conventional methods of soil remediation are often inapplicable, so an intensive search is underway for innovative and environmentally friendly ways to clean up ecosystems. The use of amendments that stabilize the toxic elements in soil by reducing their mobility and bioavailability is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to remediate soil. This paper provides a summary of studies related to the use of composites based on natural zeolites and green materials for the immobilization of toxic elements in contaminated soils and highlights positive examples of returning land to agricultural use. The published literature on natural zeolites and their composites has shown that combinations of zeolite with biochar, chitosan and other clay minerals have beneficial synergistic effects on toxic element immobilization and soil quality. The effects of zeolite properties, different combinations, application rates, or incubation periods on toxic elements immobilization were tested in laboratory scale or field experiments, whereas the mobility of toxic elements in soil was evaluated by chemical extractions of toxic elements transferred to the plants. This review highlights the excellent potential of natural zeolites to be used as single or combined sustainable green materials to solve environmental pollution problems related to the presence of toxic elements.
Shear Stress Solutions for Curved Beams: A Structural Analysis Approach
Authors: Guillén-Rujano Renny , Contreras Victor , Palencia-Díaz Argemiro , Velilla-Díaz Wilmer , Hernández-Pérez Adrián
Published: December 2024

The shear stress on isotropic curved beams with compact sections and variable thickness is investigated. Two new solutions, based on Cook’s proposal and the mechanics of materials approach, were developed and validated using computational finite element models (FEM) for four typical cross-sections (rectangular, circular, elliptical, and triangular) used in civil and mechanical structures, constituting a novel approach to predicting shear stresses in curved beams. They predict better results than other reported equations, are simpler and easier for engineers to use quickly, and join the group of equations found using the theory of elasticity, thereby expanding the field of knowledge. The results reveal that both equations are suitable to predict the shear stress on a curved beam with outer/inner radii ratios in the interval 1<b/a ≤ 5 aspect ratios. There is a maximum relative difference between the present solutions and finite element models of 8% within 1<b/a ≤ 2, and a maximum of 16% in 2<b/a ≤ 5. Additionally, the neutral axis of the curved beam can be located with the proposed solution and its position matches with that predicted by FEM. The displacement at the top face of the end of the curved beam induces a difference in the shear stress results of 8.0%, 7.0%, 6.5%, and 2.9%, for the circular, rectangular, elliptical, and triangular cross-sections, respectively, when a 3D FEM solution is considered. For small b/a ratios (near 1), the present solutions can be reduced to Collignon’s formula.
A Compact Low-Frequency Acoustic Perfect Absorber Constructed with a Folded Slit
Authors: Wang Han , Ma Pengwei , Fan Xueling
Published: December 2024

Tunable perfect acoustic absorption at subwavelength thickness has been a prominent topic in scientific research and engineering applications. Although metamaterials such as labyrinthine metasurfaces and coiling-up-space metamaterials can achieve subwavelength low-frequency acoustic absorption, efficiently realizing tunable absorption under uniform and limited size conditions remains challenging. In this paper, we introduce a folded slit to enhance the micro-slit acoustic absorber, effectively improving its low-frequency acoustic absorption performance and successfully achieving a perfect acoustic absorption coefficient of 0.99 at a thickness of only 3.1 cm. By adjusting just two parameters of the folded area, we can efficiently achieve a tunable resonant frequency ranging from 525 to 673 Hz and a tunable acoustic absorption bandwidth of 56.5% to 60.2%, simultaneously maintaining uniform external dimensions. Additionally, the folded-slit absorber demonstrates a broader acoustic absorption bandwidth at lower frequencies, enhancing broadband absorption capabilities in the low-frequency domain. These results hold significant potential for the design of highly efficient, thin and tunable acoustic absorbers.
Effect of Hydrogen on Tensile Properties and Fracture Behavior of Two High-Strength American Petroleum Institute Linepipe Steels
Authors: Oh Dong-Kyu , Jeong Min-Seop , Shin Seung-Hyeok , Hwang Byoungchul
Published: December 2024

This study explored the influence of hydrogen on the tensile properties and fracture behavior of high-strength API X70 and X80 linepipe steels with bainitic microstructures under varying hydrogen charging conditions. The X70 steel exhibited a ferritic microstructure with some pearlite, while the X80 steel showed a bainitic microstructure and fine pearlite due to the addition of molybdenum. Slow strain rate tests (SSRTs) were conducted using both electrochemical ex situ and in situ hydrogen charging methods subjected to different current densities. The SSRT results showed that in situ hydrogen-charged SSRT, performed at current densities above 1 A/m2, led to more pronounced hydrogen embrittlement compared to ex situ hydrogen-charged SSRT. This occurred because hydrogen was continuously supplied during deformation, exceeding the critical concentration even in the center regions, leading to quasi-cleavage fractures marked by localized cleavage and tearing ridges. Thermal desorption analysis (TDA) confirmed that a greater amount of hydrogen was trapped at dislocations during in situ hydrogen-charged SSRT, intensifying hydrogen embrittlement, even with a shorter hydrogen charging duration. These findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate hydrogen charging methods and understanding the hydrogen embrittlement behavior of linepipe steels.
Improving the Performance of Arsenene Nanoribbon Gate-All-Around Tunnel Field-Effect Transistors Using H Defects
Authors: Song Shun , Qin Lu , Wang Zhi , Lyu Juan , Gong Jian , Yang Shenyuan
Published: December 2024

We systematically study the transport properties of arsenene nanoribbon tunneling field-effect transistors (TFETs) along the armchair directions using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory combined with the non-equilibrium Green’s function approach. The pristine nanoribbon TFET devices with and without underlap (UL) exhibit poor performance. Introducing a H defect in the left UL region between the source and channel can drastically enhance the ON-state currents and reduce the SS to below 60 mV/decade. When the H defect is positioned far from the gate and/or at the center sites, the ON-state currents are substantially enhanced, meeting the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors requirements for high-performance and low-power devices with 5 nm channel length. The gate-all-around (GAA) structure can further improve the performance of the devices with H defects. Particularly for the devices with H defects near the edge, the GAA structure significantly reduces the SS values as low as 35 mV/decade. Our study demonstrates that GAA structure can greatly enhance the performance of the arsenene nanoribbon TFET devices with H defects, providing theoretical guidance for improving TFET performance based on two-dimensional material nanoribbons through the combination of defect engineering and GAA gate structures.
Synthesis and Antioxidant Effects of Edaravone-Loaded MPEG-2000-DSPE Micelles in Rotenone-Induced PC12 Cell Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Luo Xin , Luo Linshan , Lai Rong , Li Yan , Zhou Hongyan , Li Xiting
Published: December 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder globally that lacks any disease-modifying drug for prevention or treatment. Oxidative stress has been identified as one of the key pathogenic drivers of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Edaravone, an approved free-radical scavenger, has proven to have potential against PD by targeting multiple key pathologies, including oxidative stress, focal mitochondria, and neuroinflammation. However, its bioavailability is potentially restricted due to its poor solubility and short half-life. This study aims to develop a simple and effective drug delivery system for edaravone to enhance its solubility, stability, and bioavailability to improve its neuroprotective efficacy. An MPEG-2000-DSPE-edaravone (MDE) micelle was prepared via solvent evaporation using MPEG-2000-DSPE as a carrier to encapsulate edaravone. The morphology, particle size, zeta potential, chemical structure, and edaravone loading of MDE were evaluated. We then investigated whether such targeted edaravone delivery could provide enhanced neuroprotection. A cell model of PD was established in PC12 cells through exposure to rotenone. The effects of MDE on PC12 cells treated with or without rotenone were evaluated using a cell counting kit-8, calcein acetoxymethyl ester (AM)–propidine iodide (PI) staining, and flow cytometry. Cell migration was evaluated using a wound healing assay. Additionally, the intracellular antioxidant study was performed using an ROS-level-detecting DCFH-DA probe, and the mitochondrial membrane potentials were evaluated using a JC-1 assay. MDE with a drug-loading content of 17.6% and an encapsulation efficiency of 92.8% was successfully prepared. The resultant MDE had a mean particle size of 112.97 ± 5.54 nm with a zeta potential of −42 mV. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed that the MDE (≤200 ug/mL) exhibited promising cytocompatibility with no significant effect on cell viability, cell cycle regulation, or apoptosis levels. Likewise, compared with the free edaravone, no effect on cell migration was noted for MDE. MDE might be able to target edaravone delivery into PC12 cells, increasing the mitochondrial membrane potential and providing a significant local antioxidant effect. The results demonstrated that MPEG-2000-DSPE could be a promising material for enhancing edaravone’s aqueous solubility, stability, and antioxidant effects. MDE could be a potential drug formulation for treating PD and other diseases in which oxidative stress plays a key role in pathogenesis.
Immunonutrition in Acute Geriatric Care: Clinical Outcomes, Inflammatory Profiles, and Immune Responses
Authors: Boccardi Virginia , Cari Luigi , Naghavi Alhosseini Mahdieh , Bastiani Patrizia , Scamosci Michela , Caironi Giulia , Aprea Giulia , Mancinetti Francesca , Cecchetti Roberta , Ruggiero Carmelinda , Nocentini Giuseppe , Mecocci Patrizia
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims: Malnutrition is common in acutely ill geriatric patients, worsening immune function and clinical outcomes. Immunonutrition, containing nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, arginin and glutamine, may improve recovery in this population. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of immunonutrition on clinical outcomes, inflammatory markers, and immune responses in frail, hospitalized older adults. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study. In total, 36 subjects, during hospitalization, received either an immunonutrition formula or isoproteic and isocaloric enteral nutrition. The primary outcome was the length of hospital stay (LOS), with secondary outcomes focused on inflammatory cytokines and immune parameters within a week of hospitalization. Results: Patients were primarily oldest-old, with a mean age of 88.6 years ± 4.9 (range 79–96). The immunonutrition group had a significantly shorter LOS (11.37 ± 4.87 vs. 16.82 ± 10.83 days, p = 0.05) and showed increases in key cytokines (G-CSF, INF-α2, IL-12p70, IL-15, IL-2, and IL-3, p < 0.05) enhanced immune function. A decrease in T cells and an increased B/T cell ratio was also observed. No significant differences in infection rates or 90-day survival were found. Conclusions: Enteral immunonutrition improved clinical outcomes by reducing LOS and modulating immune responses in frail patients, suggesting potential benefits in recovery. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Effects of a 12 Week Ketogenic Diet Intervention on Obese and Overweight Females with Glucose and Lipid Metabolism Disturbance
Authors: Klonek Grzegorz , Zydek Grzegorz , Roczniok Robert , Panek Mariusz , Zając Adam , Michalczyk Małgorzata Magdalena
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: We evaluated the effects of a 12-week hypocaloric ketogenic diet (KD) on glucose and lipid metabolism, as well as body mass, in overweight, obese, and healthy-weight females. One hundred adult females completed the study, including 64 obese (97.99 ± 11.48 kg), 23 overweight (75.50 ± 5.12 kg), and 11 with normal body mass (65.93 ± 3.40 kg). All participants followed a KD consisting of less than 30 g of carbohydrates, approximately 60 g of protein, and 140 g of fat per day (80% unsaturated and 20% saturated fat). Methods: Glucose (Gl), insulin (I), glycated haemoglobin (HBA1c), HOMA-IR, triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured before and after the intervention. Additionally, body mass (BM), BMI (Body Mass Index), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and thigh circumference (TC) were recorded. Results: After 12 weeks of the KD, significant improvements were observed in GL, I, TG, HDL-C, HOMA-IR across all groups. Also BM, BMI, TC, WC, and HC were significantly reduced in all participants. Notably, obese participants showed greater reductions in all variables compared to overweight and healthy-weight females. Conclusions: A 12-week KD led to more pronounced improvements in biochemical markers and body mass in obese females compared to other groups. A KD may be particularly beneficial for obese females with hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinemia, and lipid profile disturbances.
Interventions and Programs Using Native Foods to Promote Health: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lopes Carla Vanessa Alves , de Sousa Alves Neri Julianna Lys , Hunter John , Ronto Rimante , Mihrshahi Seema
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Native foods are essential for promoting health, sustainability, and the resilience of Indigenous communities. They contribute to biodiversity, are adapted to local ecosystems, and support cultural identity. This study aims to identify and describe strategies and health outcomes from programs and interventions using native foods to promote health or address food insecurity. (2) Methods: A scoping review was conducted using five databases, including studies that implemented interventions using native foods exclusively or combined with introduced foods (non-native). The review included studies involving human participants and reporting outcomes related to health, nutritional improvements, food security, or cultural impacts. (3) Results: Nineteen studies were included. Most interventions (n = 16) combined native foods with introduced healthy foods and implemented multicomponent strategies to promote their intake (n = 15), such as educational sessions, food distribution, gardening, cooking activities, community events, media campaigns, and policy changes. Of the 19 studies, 12 explicitly used a participatory method. Reported outcomes included improved dietary intake and nutrient intake, such as increased intake of vitamin A, calcium, and iron; enhanced knowledge about native foods and healthy eating; improved health; positive cultural impacts; and enhanced food security. (4) Conclusions: The results from this scoping review suggest that interventions using native foods show promising results in improving health, nutritional outcomes, cultural identity, and food security, highlighting their potential for broader public health applications and the value of participatory approaches for sustainable interventions.
Nutritional Composition, Phytochemical Profiles, and Pharmacological Effects of Ethiopian Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum L.)
Authors: Choi Seung Min , Choi Chang-Ik
Published: December 2024

Natural product therapy has been used to treat illness for thousands of years, and modern-day medicines, such as various anticancer, antihypertensive, and antimigraine drugs, have been developed from natural products. Natural medicines are advantageous as they tend to have fewer side effects and are considered a relatively safe option. Solanum aethiopicum L. (S. aethiopicum) is a vegetable crop of the Solanaceae family and is considered one of the five most important crops in sub-Saharan Africa, alongside tomatoes, onions, peppers, and okra. S. aethiopicum has many health benefits as it contains the three major macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) as well as fiber and many essential vitamins. Additionally, much research has been conducted on the medicinal value of S. aethiopicum over the past few decades. S. aethiopicum has been found to have many pharmacological properties including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and antioxidant effects. Currently, to our knowledge, there are no comprehensive reviews of the numerous studies on S. aethiopicum. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the nutritional, phytochemical, and pharmacological analyses of S. aethiopicum, identify notable effects, and review the results.
Molecular Detection of Kinetoplastid Species in Ticks and Fleas Associated with Dogs and Humans in Mexico
Authors: Zazueta-Islas Héctor M. , Salceda-Sánchez Beatriz , Huerta-Jiménez Herón , Miranda-Caballero Carlos I. , Solis-Cortés Marlene , de la Cruz-Pacheco Yaretzi , Luquín-García Ana Cristina , Mondragon-Peña Laura V. , Reyes-Hernández Jair , Bravo-Ramos José L. , Sánchez-Otero María-Guadalupe , Huerta-Peña Javier C. , Hernández-Herrera Rosa I. , San Martin-del Angel Pablo , Roque André Luiz Rodrigues , Rodríguez-Moreno Ángel , Sánchez-Cordero Víctor , Rodríguez Martínez Héctor Abelardo , Grostieta Estefania , Becker Ingeborg , Sánchez-Montes Sokani
Published: December 2024

The Trypanosomatidae family encompasses around 24 genera of unicellular protozoans, many of which are transmitted by various hematophagous arthropods, particularly members of the Orders Diptera and Hemiptera. Fleas and ticks—an understudied group of ectoparasites—have been shown to be hosts of a wide and crescent variety of trypanosomatid species. Further, fleas and ticks of companion animals have been particularly neglected in trypanosomatid surveillance despite the proximity to human populations and the anthropophagous habits of many of these arthropods, which can potentially act as vectors of zoonotic trypanosomatids. We aimed to identify the presence, characterize the species, and establish the prevalence of Kinetoplastids, including members of the Trypanosomatidae family, in ectoparasites collected from dogs and humans from Mexico. A total of 537 ectoparasite specimens belonging to six ectoparasite taxa (Amblyomma mixtum, A. tenellum, Ctenocephalides felis felis, Pulex simulans, Rhipicephalus linnaei, and Rh. sanguineus s.s.) were collected from 15 States of Mexico. An 800 bp fragment of the 18S-rDNA gene from kinetoplastids was amplified and sequenced. The presence of two agents (Trypanosoma caninum and Parabodo sp.) was detected in R. linnaei ticks and one (Blechomonas lauriereadi) in the cat flea Ct. felis felis. This is the first record of genetic material of kinetoplastid species in ectoparasites from dogs and humans in Mexico.
Engineered Lubricative Lecithin-Based Electrospun Nanofibers for the Prevention of Postoperative Abdominal Adhesion
Authors: Li Junhan , Lin Hao , Li Jinghua , Wang Yi
Published: December 2024

Background: Postoperative abdominal adhesion is a prevalent complication following abdominal surgery, with the incidence of adhesion reaching up to 90%, which may precipitate a range of adverse outcomes. Although fibrous membranes loaded with various anti-inflammatory or other drugs have been proposed for anti-adhesion, most of them suffer from drug-induced adverse effects. Methods: In this study, a lecithin-based electrospun polylactic acid (PLA) nanofibrous membrane (L/P-NM) was developed for the prevention of postoperative abdominal adhesion, utilizing the hydration lubrication theory. The loaded zwitterionic lecithin allows the nanofiber surface to strongly bind water molecules to create a hydration lubrication interface. Results: As the TGA results show, the content of bound water in the nanofibers increased significantly with the increase in the lecithin content. Tribological test results show that L/P-NM reached a minimum coefficient of friction (COF) of about 0.112. Additionally, the developed nanofibrous membranes possess favorable tensile property and biocompatibility. Rat postoperative abdominal adhesion model evaluation results demonstrated that L/P-NM possesses significant anti-adhesive performance, with an adhesion score of only 1. Conclusions: Therefore, this study offers a promising strategy for efficiently preventing abdominal adhesion.