bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Safety and Efficacy of Microporous Polysaccharide Hemospheres in Terms of the Complication Rates in Total Hip Arthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fractures: A Control-Matched Retrospective Cohort
Authors: Pidgaiska Olga , Niemann Marcel , Braun Karl , Trampuz Andrej , Goumenos Stavros , Stöckle Ulrich , Meller Sebastian
Published: January 2024

Aims. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of microporous polysaccharide hemospheres (MPSHs) in managing blood loss and reducing the risk of postoperative haematoma and early periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total hip arthroplasty (THA) for femoral neck fracture (FNF), in the context of the existing treatment challenges. Methods. A control-matched retrospective analysis of 163 patients undergoing unilateral primary THA for displaced FNF between 2020 and 2023 was performed. The study group consisted of 74 patients who received MPSH administered intraoperatively. The control group consisted of 89 patients who received no topical haemostatics. One-to-one case–control matching between groups was performed. The primary outcome was a perioperative change in the haematologic values (haemoglobin, red blood cell count, haematocrit, platelet concentration) and transfusion rate. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of postoperative local haematoma formation, prolonged wound secretion, surgical site infection (SSI), and PJI within 3 months of surgery. Results. Our analysis found no statistically significant differences in the haematologic parameters between the control and study cohorts. The changes in the haemoglobin concentration were not significant between the control group (3.18 ± 1.0 g/dL) and the treatment group (2.87 ± 1.15 g/dL) (p = 0.3). There were no significant differences (p = 0.24) in the haematocrit and red blood cell concentration (p = 0.15). The platelet levels did not significantly differ (p = 0.12) between the groups. Additionally, we found no significant discrepancy in the incidence of early PJI or blood transfusion rates between the groups. No adverse effects following MPSH use were recorded in the study group. Conclusions. Routine use of MPSH in THA for FNF management appears to be safe, with no observed adverse events related to Arista® use. Although there was a tendency towards reduced blood loss in the Arista® AH group, MPSH did not significantly impact bleeding complications, local haematoma formation, or subsequent PJI.
Death and Dying: Grapevine Survival, Cold Hardiness, and BLUPs and Winter BLUEs in North Dakota Vineyards
Authors: Köse Bülent , Svyantek Andrej , Kadium Venkateswara Rao , Brooke Matthew , Auwarter Collin , Hatterman-Valenti Harlene
Published: January 2024

A total of fourteen diverse, interspecific hybrid grapevines (Vitis spp.) were evaluated for their adaptability to North Dakota winter conditions using differential thermal analysis (DTA) of low-temperature exotherms (LTE) and bud cross-sectional assessment of survival techniques. This research was conducted in two vineyard locations in eastern North Dakota. This work demonstrates the use of DTA for monitoring and selecting cultivars capable of withstanding sub-zero temperatures. These results were assessed for quantitative genetic traits. High heritability was observed for bud LTE traits and may thus be a useful target for cold hardiness breeding programs; however, it is necessary to ensure that variance is reduced when pooling multiple sample events. After DTA sampling, grapevines were assessed for survival of primary and secondary dormant buds using cross-sectional visual evaluation of death. ‘Valiant’ had the greatest primary bud survival (68%), followed by ‘Frontenac gris’, ‘Crimson Pearl’, and ‘King of the North’. These varieties are among those with potential for production in eastern North Dakota’s environment. The newly evaluated relationships between traits and the heritability of DTA results provide valuable tools to grapevine breeders for the development of cold-tolerant genotypes for future climatic challenges.
The Contemporary Role of Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dimitroglou Yannis , Aggeli Constantina , Alexopoulou Alexandra , Tsartsalis Dimitrios , Patsourakos Dimitrios , Koukos Markos , Tousoulis Dimitris , Tsioufis Konstantinos
Published: January 2024

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is characterized by elevated cardiac output at rest, an inability to further increase contractility under stress, and diastolic dysfunction. The diagnosis of CCM is crucial as it can lead to complications during liver transplantation. However, its recognition poses challenges with conventional echocardiography techniques. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), particularly global longitudinal strain (GLS), is a novel index that enhances the diagnostic efficacy of echocardiography for both ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies. GLS proves more sensitive in identifying early systolic dysfunction and is also influenced by advanced diastolic dysfunction. Consequently, there is an expanding scope for GLS utilization in cirrhotic cases, with newly updated diagnostic criteria for CCM incorporating GLS. Specifically, systolic dysfunction is now defined as either a left ventricular ejection fraction below 50% or an absolute GLS below 18%. However, conflicting data on GLS alterations in liver cirrhosis patients persist, as many individuals with advanced disease and a poor prognosis exhibit a hyperdynamic state with preserved or increased GLS. Consequently, the presence of CCM, according to the updated criteria, does not exhibit a significant association—in the majority of studies—with the severity of liver disease and prognosis. Furthermore, information on other indices measured with STE, such as left atrial and right ventricular strain, is promising but currently limited. This review aims to offer a critical assessment of the existing evidence concerning the application of STE in patients with liver cirrhosis.
(2-[4-Methylpyrazol-1-yl]phenyl)platinum(II) (1,3-bis[1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl]propane-1,3-dione)
Authors: Vlasova Tatiana S. , Romanova Yulia E. , Taidakov Ilya V. , Paveliev Stanislav A.
Published: January 2024

In this work, the title compound was synthesized via the reaction of an aryl-substituted pyrazole with potassium tetrachloroplatinate, followed by the reaction of the postulated intermediate chloro-bridged dimer with a pyrazole-containing 1,3-diketonate ligand. The structure of the synthesized complex was established by 1H, 13C NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. According to UV-Vis spectrometry studies, the obtained complex exhibits green fluorescence with a maximum at 514 nm. Based on cyclic voltammetry studies, the HOMO, LUMO and band gap values were calculated.
Synthesis of Substituted Pyrrole Derivatives Based on 8-Azaspiro[5.6]dodec-10-ene Scaffold
Authors: Iusupov Ildar R. , Tafeenko Victor A. , Altieri Andrea , Kurkin Alexander V.
Published: January 2024

This work describes the synthesis of spirocyclic compounds based on 8-azaspiro[5.6]dodec-10-ene. Diastereomerically pure pyrrole derivatives were prepared from the spirocyclic 1,2,3-triazole using a coupling reaction. The resulting compounds were characterized via 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and HRMS, and the crystallographic characteristics of one of them were studied via X-ray diffraction.
The Integrability and Modification to an Auxiliary Function Method for Solving the Strain Wave Equation of a Flexible Rod with a Finite Deformation
Authors: Elmandouh Adel , Aljuaidan Aqilah , Elbrolosy Mamdouh
Published: January 2024

Our study focuses on the governing equation of a finitely deformed flexible rod with strain waves. By utilizing the well-known Ablowita–Ramani–Segur (ARS) algorithm, we prove that the equation is non-integrable in the Painlevé sense. Based on the bifurcation theory for planar dynamical systems, we modify an auxiliary equation method to obtain a new systematic and effective method that can be used for a wide class of non-linear evolution equations. This method is summed up in an algorithm that explains and clarifies the ease of its applicability. The proposed method is successfully applied to construct wave solutions. The developed solutions are grouped as periodic, solitary, super periodic, kink, and unbounded solutions. A graphic representation of these solutions is presented using a 3D representation and a 2D representation, as well as a 2D contour plot.
Evolutionary Game Analysis of Digital Financial Enterprises and Regulators Based on Delayed Replication Dynamic Equation
Authors: Xu Mengzhu , Liu Zixin , Xu Changjin , Wang Nengfa
Published: January 2024

With the frequent occurrence of financial risks, financial innovation supervision has become an important research issue, and excellent regulatory strategies are of great significance to maintain the stability and sustainable development of financial markets. Thus, this paper intends to analyze the financial regulation strategies through evolutionary game theory. In this paper, the delayed replication dynamic equation and the non-delayed replication dynamic equation are established, respectively, under different reward and punishment mechanisms, and their stability conditions and evolutionary stability strategies are investigated. The analysis finds that under the static mechanism, the internal equilibrium is unstable, and the delay does not affect the stability of the system, while in the dynamic mechanism, when the delay is less than a critical value, the two sides of the game have an evolutionary stable strategy, otherwise it is unstable, and Hopf bifurcation occurs at threshold. Finally, some numerical simulation examples are provided, and the numerical results show the correctness of the proposed algorithm.
Approximating Continuous Function by Smooth Functions on Orbit Spaces
Authors: Zhou Luyang , Xia Qianqian
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study the approximation of continuous functions on a subclass of singular space—the subcartesian space. As is well known, the orbit space of the proper action of a Lie group on a smooth manifold is a subcartesian space. We prove that continuous functions on the orbit space can be approximated by smooth functions.
On Global Solutions of Hyperbolic Equations with Positive Coefficients at Nonlocal Potentials
Authors: Muravnik Andrey B.
Published: January 2024

We study hyperbolic equations with positive coefficients at potentials undergoing translations with respect to the spatial independent variable. The qualitative novelty of the investigation is that the real part of the symbol of the differential-difference operator contained in the equation is allowed to change its sign. Earlier, only the case where the said sign is constant was investigated. We find a condition relating the coefficient at the nonlocal term of the investigated equation and the length of the translation, guaranteeing the global solvability of the investigated equation. Under this condition, we explicitly construct a three-parametric family of smooth global solutions of the investigated equation.
A Pilot Prospective Study Evaluating the Effect of Curcuma-Based Herbal Food Supplement on the Outcome of In Vitro Fertilization in Patients Testing Positive for Four Immunological Biomarkers
Authors: Colognato Renato , Laurenza Incoronata , Ersettigh Gabriele , Aiello Giada Antonia , Carnovali Marta , Mariotti Massimo , Maxia Nicoletta
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: Inflammation and oxidative stress have been described to reduce the chance for pregnancy instauration and maintenance. NOFLAMOX, a recently developed herbal preparation with recognized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, can represent an interesting treatment to increase the chance of pregnancy, both physiological or after in vitro fertilization (IVF). The aim of this study was to assess NOFLAMOX’s effect; a population with unexplained infertility was screened for the recently described IMMUNOX panel based on four immunological biomarkers with a prospective study approach. Materials and Methods: Patients with unexplained infertility and positive for at least one of the biomarkers of the IMMUNOX panel were included in this study and treated with NOFLAMOX for three months prior to an IVF cycle. Results: Eighty-six patients (n = 86) were screened with the IMMUNOX panel and the forty-seven (54.5%) found positive were included in this study. In more detail, 11 were positive for TNFα (23.4%), 18 (38.3%) for glycodelin (GLY), 29 (61.7%) for Total Oxidative Status (TOS), and 32 (68.1%) for Complement Activity Toxic Factor (CATF). After three months of treatment, a significant reduction in the number of IMMUNOX-positive patients was observable, with 26 patients who turned IMMUNOX-negative displaying a quantitative statistically significant variation of 100% (11/11), 38.9% (7/18), 65.5% (18/29), and 75% (24/32), for TNFα, glycodelin, TOS, and CATF, respectively. Followed in the subsequent IVF cycle, this NOFLAMOX-treated population showed a pregnancy rate of 42.3% compared to the 4.7% of the IMMUNOX-positive group of patients. Conclusions: Taken together, the results of this study suggest that NOFLAMOX could represent an interesting option for those patients with unexplained infertility of inflammatory/oxidative origin. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and explore possible strategies to restore fertility in women with immune-mediated sterility.
Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae in Urinary Tract Infections: From Biological Insights to Emerging Therapeutic Alternatives
Authors: Bologna Eugenio , Licari Leslie Claire , Manfredi Celeste , Ditonno Francesco , Cirillo Luigi , Fusco Giovanni Maria , Abate Marco , Passaro Francesco , Di Mauro Ernesto , Crocetto Felice , Pandolfo Savio Domenico , Aveta Achille , Cilio Simone , Di Filippo Isabella , Barone Biagio , Franco Antonio , Arcaniolo Davide , La Rocca Roberto , Pinchera Biagio , Napolitano Luigi
Published: January 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most frequent type of infection observed in clinical practice. Gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae are common pathogens in UTIs. Excessive antibiotic use in humans and animals, poor infection control, and increased global travel have accelerated the spread of multidrug-resistant strains (MDR). Carbapenem antibiotics are commonly considered the last line of defense against MDR Gram-negative bacteria; however, their efficacy is now threatened by the increasing prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). This comprehensive review aims to explore the biological mechanisms underlying carbapenem resistance and to present a focus on therapeutic alternatives currently available for complicated UTIs (cUTIs). A comprehensive bibliographic search was conducted on the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases in December 2023. The best evidence on the topic was selected, described, and discussed. Analyzed with particular interest were the clinical trials pivotal to the introduction of new pharmacological treatments in the management of complicated cUTIs. Additional suitable articles were collected by manually cross-referencing the bibliography of previously selected papers. This overview provides a current and comprehensive examination of the treatment options available for CRE infections, offering a valuable resource for understanding this constantly evolving public health challenge.
Impact of Cleaning on Membrane Performance during Surface Water Treatment: A Hybrid Process with Biological Ion Exchange and Gravity-Driven Membranes
Authors: Rasouli Yaser , Barbeau Benoit , Maltais-Tariant Raphaël , Boudoux Caroline , Claveau-Mallet Dominique
Published: January 2024

In this study, the hybrid biological ion exchange (BIEX) resin and gravity-driven membrane (GDM) process was employed for the treatment of coloured and turbid river water. The primary objective was to investigate the impact of both physical and chemical cleaning methods on ceramic and polymeric membranes in terms of their stabilised flux, flux recovery after physical/chemical cleaning, and permeate quality. To address these objectives, two types of MF and UF membranes were utilised (M1 = polymeric MF, M2 = polymeric UF, M3 = ceramic UF, and M4 = lab-made ceramic MF). Throughout the extended operation, the resin functioned initially in the primary ion exchange (IEX) region (NOM displacement with pre-charged chloride) and progressed to a secondary IEX stage (NOM displacement with bicarbonate and sulphate), while membrane flux remained stable. Subsequently, physical cleaning involved air/water backwash with two different flows and pressures, and chemical cleaning utilised NaOH at concentrations of 20 and 40 mM, as well as NaOCl at concentrations of 250 and 500 mg Cl2/L. These processes were carried out to assess flux recovery and identify fouling reversibility. The results indicate an endpoint of 1728 bed volumes (BVs) for the primary IEX region, while the secondary IEX continued up to 6528 BV. At the end of the operation, DOC and UVA254 removal in the effluent of the BIEX columns were 68% and 81%, respectively, compared to influent water. This was followed by 30% and 57% DOC and UVA254 removal using M4 (ceramic MF). The stabilised flux remained approximately 3.8–5.2 LMH both before and after the cleaning process, suggesting that membrane materials do not play a pivotal role. The mean stabilised flux of polymeric membranes increased after cleaning, whereas that of the ceramics decreased. Enhanced air–water backwash flow and pressure resulted in an increased removal of hydraulic reversible fouling, which was identified as the dominant fouling type. Ceramic membranes exhibited a higher removal of reversible hydraulic fouling than polymeric membranes. Chemical cleaning had a low impact on flux recovery; therefore, we recommend solely employing physical cleaning.
A Comprehensive Material Model for the Super-Duplex Stainless Steel SAF2507 in a Welding Environment
Authors: Prunbauer Maximilian , Raninger Peter , Ecker Werner , Rester Martin , Ebner Reinhold
Published: January 2024

The aim of this work is to describe a reliable methodology for determining parameters of a material model suitable for implementation in a welding simulation using the finite element method (FEM). The adopted methodology employs a multi-scale approach integrating a microstructure evolution model, a representative volume element (RVE) calibrated through experimental methods, including a thermal–mechanical simulator, and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) experiments. The result is a complete material model, which covers thermal, mechanical and metallurgical material models for SAF2507 (EN 1.4410), that shows promising results and was successfully implemented in finite element (FE) code. A direct comparison of experimental and calculated results shows a deviation of up to 12% for the phase fraction of austenite and 25% for the mean grain diameter of ferrite.
A Dual-Mode Pressure and Temperature Sensor
Authors: Chai Jin , Wang Xin , Li Xuan , Wu Guirong , Zhao Yunlong , Nan Xueli , Xue Chenyang , Gao Libo , Zheng Gaofeng
Published: January 2024

The emerging field of flexible tactile sensing systems, equipped with multi-physical tactile sensing capabilities, holds vast potential across diverse domains such as medical monitoring, robotics, and human–computer interaction. In response to the prevailing challenges associated with the limited integration and sensitivity of flexible tactile sensors, this paper introduces a versatile tactile sensing system capable of concurrently monitoring temperature and pressure. The temperature sensor employs carbon nanotube/graphene conductive paste as its sensitive material, while the pressure sensor integrates an ionic gel containing boron nitride as its sensitive layer. Through the application of cost-effective screen printing technology, we have successfully manufactured a flexible dual-mode sensor with exceptional performance, featuring high sensitivity (804.27 kPa−1), a broad response range (50 kPa), rapid response time (17 ms), and relaxation time (34 ms), alongside exceptional durability over 5000 cycles. Furthermore, the resistance temperature coefficient of the sensor within the temperature range of 12.5 °C to 93.7 °C is −0.17% °C−1. The designed flexible dual-mode tactile sensing system enables the real-time detection of pressure and temperature information, presenting an innovative approach to electronic skin with multi-physical tactile sensing capabilities.
Molecular Genomic Analyses of Enterococcus cecorum from Sepsis Outbreaks in Broilers
Authors: Rhoads Douglas D. , Pummill Jeff , Alrubaye Adnan Ali Khalaf
Published: January 2024

Extensive genomic analyses of Enterococcus cecorum isolates from sepsis outbreaks in broilers suggest a polyphyletic origin, likely arising from core genome mutations rather than gene acquisition. This species is a normal intestinal flora of avian species with particular isolates associated with osteomyelitis. More recently, this species has been associated with sepsis outbreaks affecting broilers during the first 3 weeks post-hatch. Understanding the genetic and management basis of this new phenotype is critical for developing strategies to mitigate this emerging problem. Phylogenomic analyses of 227 genomes suggest that sepsis isolates are polyphyletic and closely related to both commensal and osteomyelitis isolate genomes. Pangenome analyses detect no gene acquisitions that distinguish all the sepsis isolates. Core genome single nucleotide polymorphism analyses have identified a number of mutations, affecting the protein-coding sequences, that are enriched in sepsis isolates. The analysis of the protein substitutions supports the mutational origins of sepsis isolates.
Deciphering Differences in Microbial Community Diversity between Clubroot-Diseased and Healthy Soils
Authors: Kang Huajun , Chai Ali , Lin Zihan , Shi Yanxia , Xie Xuewen , Li Lei , Fan Tengfei , Xiang Sheng , Xie Jianming , Li Baoju
Published: January 2024

Clubroot (Plasmodiophora brassicae) is an important soilborne disease that causes severe damage to cruciferous crops in China. This study aims to compare the differences in chemical properties and microbiomes between healthy and clubroot-diseased soils. To reveal the difference, we measured soil chemical properties and microbial communities by sequencing 18S and 16S rRNA amplicons. The available potassium in the diseased soils was higher than in the healthy soils. The fungal diversity in the healthy soils was significantly higher than in the diseased soils. Ascomycota and Proteobacteria were the most dominant fungal phylum and bacteria phylum in all soil samples, respectively. Plant-beneficial microorganisms, such as Chaetomium and Sphingomonas, were more abundant in the healthy soils than in the diseased soils. Co-occurrence network analysis found that the healthy soil networks were more complex and stable than the diseased soils. The link number, network density, and clustering coefficient of the healthy soil networks were higher than those of the diseased soil networks. Our results indicate that the microbial community diversity and network structure of the clubroot-diseased soils were different from those of the healthy soils. This study is of great significance in exploring the biological control strategies of clubroot disease.
Sedimentary Characteristics and Depositional Model of the Paleogene Dawenkou Formation in Eastern China: Insights from the Huanggang Depression
Authors: Chen Wentao , Lv Dawei , Ejembi John I. , Yang Bin , Song Cuiyu , Ning Zhenguo , Tang Lulu , Zhang Zhihui , Jia Haibo
Published: January 2024

The Huanggang depression in eastern China is a significant Cenozoic salt-bearing basin that formed during the alternating dry and wet climate periods from the Eocene to the Oligocene. Despite the economic importance of the Huanggang depression, its saliferous model remains controversial. To address this issue, we conducted comprehensive analyses of the sedimentology and elemental geochemistry on the YZR1 borehole core, which hosts a relatively complete sedimentary record of the Huanggang depression, consisting of five lithofacies’ assemblages. The combined lithofacies and geochemical ratios, including B/Ga, Sr/Ba, and V/(V + Ni), provide insights into the paleolake’s evolution in the Huanggang depression. Our analyses indicated that the paleolake underwent a transition from a freshwater lake to a brackish water/saline lake, subsequently transforming into a salt lake, reverting back to a brackish water/saline lake, and ultimately returning to its original state as a freshwater lake. These changes are reflected in the sedimentary record and inform the six stages of evolution of the paleolake of the Dawenkou Formation. We propose two metallogenic models to explain the accumulation of the thick halite (LA1) and thin halite layers (LA2), respectively. LA1 is primarily dominated by halite deposition, forming in an extremely shallow water environment under arid climate conditions. In contrast, LA2 records the alternating deposition of halite, anhydrite, and mudstone, and formed in a shallow water environment under arid to semi-arid climatic conditions. LA1 has a much drier climate and higher salinity than LA2. Our results suggest that the salt-forming period in the Huanggang depression occurred from the late Eocene to the early Oligocene. The halite in the Huanggang depression formed in a shallow water environment, providing the basis for the halite deposition model of the depression. This study sheds light on the formation mechanism of halite in the Paleogene in eastern China.
Increase in Recovery Efficiency of Iron-Containing Components from Ash and Slag Material (Coal Combustion Waste) by Magnetic Separation
Authors: Aleksandrova Tatiana , Nikolaeva Nadezhda , Afanasova Anastasia , Chenlong Duan , Romashev Artyem , Aburova Valeriya , Prokhorova Evgeniya
Published: January 2024

This article presents the results of research aimed at optimizing the process of recovery of valuable components from ash and slag waste from thermal power plants. In this work, both experimental and theoretical studies were carried out to substantiate the use of magnetic separation methods for ash and slag waste processing. Ash and slag wastes were chosen as an object of research due to the presence of valuable components such as iron, aluminum, etc., in them. The research results showed that the method of magnetic separation, including high-gradient magnetic separation, can be effectively used in ash and slag waste processing. As a result, the topology of a magnetic beneficiation technological scheme has been proposed to obtain high-value-added products such as high-magnetic iron minerals, low-magnetic iron minerals, and aluminosilicate microspheres. By using magnetic separation in a weak magnetic field, magnetic microspheres containing high-magnetic iron minerals associated with intermetallics, ranging in size from 20 to 80 µm, were recovered. In the second stage of magnetic separation (high-gradient magnetic separation), an iron ore product with an iron content of 50% with a recovery of 92.07% could be obtained. By using scanning electron microscopy, it was found that the main part of microspheres, which contain low-magnetic iron minerals and aluminosilicates, with sizes from 2 to 15 microns, was recovered in the magnetic fraction. This paper proposes a new approach to the enrichment of ash and slag materials using magnetic separation, which will increase the efficiency of their processing and make the process environmentally sustainable.
In Vitro Assessment of Cortisol Release Inhibition, Bioaccessibility and Bioavailability of a Chemically Characterized Scutellaria lateriflora L. Hydroethanolic Extract
Authors: Buccato Daniele Giuseppe , Ullah Hammad , De Lellis Lorenza Francesca , Piccinocchi Roberto , Baldi Alessandra , Xiao Xiang , Arciola Carla Renata , Di Minno Alessandro , Daglia Maria
Published: January 2024

Excess cortisol release is associated with numerous health concerns, including psychiatric issues (i.e., anxiety, insomnia, and depression) and nonpsychiatric issues (i.e., osteoporosis). The aim of this study was to assess the in vitro inhibition of cortisol release, bioaccessibility, and bioavailability exerted by a chemically characterized Scutellaria lateriflora L. extract (SLE). The treatment of H295R cells with SLE at increasing, noncytotoxic, concentrations (5–30 ng/mL) showed significant inhibition of cortisol release ranging from 58 to 91%. The in vitro simulated gastric, duodenal, and gastroduodenal digestions, induced statistically significant reductions (p < 0.0001) in the bioactive polyphenolic compounds that most represented SLE. Bioavailability studies on duodenal digested SLE, using Caco-2 cells grown on transwell inserts and a parallel artificial membrane permeability assay, indicated oroxylin A glucuronide and oroxylin A were the only bioactive compounds able to cross the Caco-2 cell membrane and the artificial lipid membrane, respectively. The results suggest possible applications of SLE as a food supplement ingredient against cortisol-mediated stress response and the use of gastroresistant oral dosage forms to partially prevent the degradation of SLE bioactive compounds. In vivo studies and clinical trials remain necessary to draw a conclusion on the efficacy and tolerability of this plant extract.
Phenolic Compound, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and In Silico Studies of Extracts from the Aerial Parts of Lactuca saligna L.
Authors: Bouymajane Aziz , Filali Fouzia Rhazi , Moujane Soumia , Majdoub Yassine Oulad El , Otzen Philipp , Channaoui Souhail , Ed-Dra Abdelaziz , Bouddine Toufik , Sellam Khalid , Boughrous Ali Ait , Miceli Natalizia , Altemimi Ammar B. , Cacciola Francesco
Published: January 2024

Medicinal plants are considered a major source for discovering novel effective drugs. To our knowledge, no studies have reported the chemical composition and biological activities of Moroccan Lactuca saligna extracts. In this context, this study aims to characterize the polyphenolic compounds distributed in hydro-methanolic extracts of L. saligna and evaluate their antioxidant and antibacterial activities; in addition, in silico analysis based on molecular docking and ADMET was performed to predict the antibacterial activity of the identified phenolic compounds. Our results showed the identification of 29 among 30 detected phenolic compounds with an abundance of dicaffeoyltartaric acid, luteolin 7-glucoronide, 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, and 5-caffeoylquinic acid with 472.77, 224.30, 196.79, and 171.74 mg/kg of dried extract, respectively. Additionally, antioxidant activity assessed by DPPH scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, and ferrous ion-chelating (FIC) assay showed interesting antioxidant activity. Moreover, the results showed remarkable antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes with minimum inhibitory concentrations between 1.30 ± 0.31 and 10.41 ± 0.23 mg/mL. Furthermore, in silico analysis identified three compounds, including Apigenin 7-O-glucuronide, Quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, and 3-p-Coumaroylquinic acid as potent candidates for developing new antibacterial agents with acceptable pharmacokinetic properties. Hence, L. saligna can be considered a source of phytochemical compounds with remarkable activities, while further in vitro and in vivo studies are required to explore the main biological activities of this plant.
Hexane Fraction of Adenophora triphylla var. japonica Root Extract Inhibits Angiogenesis and Endothelial Cell-Induced Erlotinib Resistance in Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Park Hyun-Ji , Jeong Jae-Hoon , Choi Yung-Hyun , Park Shin-Hyung
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-angiogenic effects of the hexane fraction of Adenophora triphylla var. japonica root extract (HAT) and its influence on the development of erlotinib resistance in human lung cancer cells. HAT significantly reduced the migration, invasion, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The phosphorylation levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and its downstream molecules were decreased via HAT, indicating its anti-angiogenic potential in endothelial cells (ECs). A docking analysis demonstrated that β-sitosterol and lupeol, representative components of HAT, exhibit a high affinity for binding to VEGFR2. In addition, conditioned media from HAT-pretreated H1299 human lung cancer cells attenuated cancer-cell-induced chemotaxis of HUVECs, which was attributed to the decreased expression of angiogenic and chemotactic factors in H1299 cells. Interestingly, co-culture of erlotinib-sensitive PC9 human lung cancer cells with HUVECs induced erlotinib resistance in PC9 cells. However, co-culture with HAT-pretreated HUVECs partially restored the sensitivity of PC9 cells to erlotinib. HAT inhibited the development of erlotinib resistance by attenuating hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) production by ECs. Taken together, our results demonstrate that HAT exerts its anticancer effects by regulating the crosstalk between ECs and lung cancer cells.
Prevention and Potential Treatment Strategies for Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Authors: Sun Bo-Wen , Zhang Peng-Peng , Wang Zong-Hao , Yao Xia , He Meng-Lan , Bai Rui-Ting , Che Hao , Lin Jing , Xie Tian , Hui Zi , Ye Xiang-Yang , Wang Li-Wei
Published: January 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a significant viral pathogen that causes respiratory infections in infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. RSV-related illnesses impose a substantial economic burden worldwide annually. The molecular structure, function, and in vivo interaction mechanisms of RSV have received more comprehensive attention in recent times, and significant progress has been made in developing inhibitors targeting various stages of the RSV replication cycle. These include fusion inhibitors, RSV polymerase inhibitors, and nucleoprotein inhibitors, as well as FDA-approved RSV prophylactic drugs palivizumab and nirsevimab. The research community is hopeful that these developments might provide easier access to knowledge and might spark new ideas for research programs.
Nutritional, Clinical and Sociodemographic Profiles of Spanish Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Carrera-Juliá Sandra , Estrela José M. , Zacarés Mario , Navarro Mari Ángeles , Vega-Bello María Jesús , de la Rubia Ortí José Enrique , Moreno Mari Luz , Drehmer Eraci
Published: January 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disease that leads to the loss of motor neurons. The dietary intake of ALS patients is thought to influence the prognosis and progression of the disease. The aim of this study was to examine the nutritional, clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of ALS patients in Spain. A cross-sectional descriptive study with demographics, clinical anamnesis and anthropometric assessment was carried out. Nutritional intake was recorded and compared with dietary reference intakes (DRI). Forty subjects (25 males; 15 females) aged 54.7 ± 10.17 were included in the study. The mean weight and height were 67.99 ± 8.85 kg and 167.83 ± 8.79 cm, respectively. Clinical phenotype, time to diagnosis, year of onset and family history were not associated with the place of origin. Clinical phenotype had no influence on time of diagnosis. Caloric and protein intakes were adequate, while carbohydrate, vitamin B8 and iodine intakes were significantly lower than the DRI. Lipids; vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C and E; sodium; phosphorus; and selenium intakes were significantly higher than the recommended nutritional standards. ALS patients, who are homogeneously distributed throughout our national territory, should modify their dietary habits to minimize ultra-processed products and prioritize foods rich in healthy fats and fiber.
Adverse Food Reactions in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Capobianco Ivan , Di Vincenzo Federica , Puca Pierluigi , Becherucci Guia , Mentella Maria Chiara , Petito Valentina , Scaldaferri Franco
Published: January 2024

Limited knowledge is available about the relationship between food allergies or intolerances and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Clinicians frequently encounter patients who report food allergies or intolerances, and gastroenterologists struggle distinguishing between patients with organic disorders and those with functional disorders, which the patients themselves may associate with specific dietary components. This task becomes even more arduous when managing patients with significant underlying organic conditions, like IBD. The aim of this review is to summarize and emphasize any actual associations between food allergies and intolerances and inflammatory diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Through a narrative disceptation of the current literature, we highlight the increased prevalence of various food intolerances, including lactose, fructose, histamine, nickel, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity, in individuals with IBD. Additionally, we explore the association between increased epithelial barrier permeability in IBD and the development of food sensitization. By doing so, we aim to enhance clinicians’ awareness of the nutritional management of patients with IBD when facing complaints or evidence of food allergies or intolerances.
Genetic Diversity of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Serovar Enteritidis from Human and Non-Human Sources in Portugal
Authors: Leão Célia , Silveira Leonor , Usié Ana , Gião Joana , Clemente Lurdes , Themudo Patricia , Amaro Ana , Pista Angela
Published: January 2024

Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) is one of the leading causes of foodborne infections associated with broilers and laying hens. Portugal has had the lowest notification rates of salmonellosis in recent years, due to the vaccinations of layer and breeder flocks and strict compliance with biosecurity measures. However, data about the genetic diversity of S. Enteritidis in Portugal are scarce. In this study, 102 S. Enteritidis isolates selected from human (n = 63) and non-human sources (n = 39) were characterized by serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility, and whole genome sequencing. The S. Enteritidis population was mainly resistant to fluoroquinolones, and a sole isolate showed resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporins. ST11 was the most frequent sequence type, and three novel STs from human isolates (ST9236, ST4457, and ST9995) were assigned. Several Salmonella pathogenic islands (SPI) and Putative SPI were present in the genomes, namely SPI-1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14, C63PI, CS54_island, and 170 virulence genes were identified. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that strains from Portugal are genetically heterogeneous regarding sample type, collection date, and genetic content. This study increases the available data, essential to a better characterization of strains in a global context.
Mucosal Immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in the Respiratory Tract
Authors: Noh Hae-Eun , Rha Min-Seok
Published: January 2024

The respiratory tract, the first-line defense, is constantly exposed to inhaled allergens, pollutants, and pathogens such as respiratory viruses. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that the coordination of innate and adaptive immune responses in the respiratory tract plays a crucial role in the protection against invading respiratory pathogens. Therefore, a better understanding of mucosal immunity in the airways is critical for the development of novel therapeutics and next-generation vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other respiratory viruses. Since the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, our knowledge of mucosal immune responses in the airways has expanded. In this review, we describe the latest knowledge regarding the key components of the mucosal immune system in the respiratory tract. In addition, we summarize the host immune responses in the upper and lower airways following SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination, and discuss the impact of allergic airway inflammation on mucosal immune responses against SARS-CoV-2.
The Status Quo of Pharmacogenomics of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Precision Oncology: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Literature
Authors: Alzoubi Abdallah , Shirazi Hassan , Alrawashdeh Ahmad , AL-Dekah Arwa M. , Ibraheem Nadia , Kheirallah Khalid A.
Published: January 2024

Precision oncology and pharmacogenomics (PGx) intersect in their overarching goal to institute the right treatment for the right patient. However, the translation of these innovations into clinical practice is still lagging behind. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the current state of research and to predict the future directions of applied PGx in the field of precision oncology as represented by the targeted therapy class of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Advanced bibliometric and scientometric analyses of the literature were performed. The Scopus database was used for the search, and articles published between 2001 and 2023 were extracted. Information about productivity, citations, cluster analysis, keyword co-occurrence, trend topics, and thematic evolution were generated. A total of 448 research articles were included in this analysis. A burst of scholarly activity in the field was noted by the year 2005, peaking in 2017, followed by a remarkable decline to date. Research in the field was hallmarked by consistent and impactful international collaboration, with the US leading in terms of most prolific country, institutions, and total link strength. Thematic evolution in the field points in the direction of more specialized studies on applied pharmacokinetics of available and novel TKIs, particularly for the treatment of lung and breast cancers. Our results delineate a significant advancement in the field of PGx in precision oncology. Notwithstanding the practical challenges to these applications at the point of care, further research, standardization, infrastructure development, and informed policymaking are urgently needed to ensure widespread adoption of PGx.
A System for Discovering Novel Uricosurics Targeting Urate Transporter 1 Based on In Vitro and In Vivo Modeling
Authors: Li Xuechen , Qi Chufan , Shao Mengjie , Yang Yajun , Wang Yuying , Li Jiang , Xiao Zhiyan , Ye Fei
Published: January 2024

Hyperuricemia has become a global burden with the increasing prevalence and risk of associated metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases. Uricosurics act as a vital urate-lowering therapy by promoting uric acid excretion via the kidneys. However, potent and safe uricosurics are still in urgent demand for use in the clinic. In this study, we aimed to establish in vitro and in vivo models to aid the discovery of novel uricosurics, and to search for potent active compounds, especially targeting urate transporter 1 (URAT1), the major urate transporter in the kidney handling uric acid homeostasis. As a result, for preliminary screening, the in vitro URAT1 transport activity was assessed using a non-isotopic uric acid uptake assay in hURAT1-stably expressed HEK293 cells. The in vivo therapeutic effect was evaluated in a subacute hyperuricemic mouse model (sub-HUA) and further confirmed in a chronic hyperuricemic mouse model (Ch-HUA). By utilizing these models, compound CC18002 was obtained as a potent URAT1 inhibitor, with an IC50 value of 1.69 μM, and favorable uric acid-lowering effect in both sub-HUA and Ch-HUA mice, which was comparable to that of benzbromarone at the same dosage. Moreover, the activity of xanthine oxidoreductase, the key enzyme catalyzing uric acid synthesis, was not altered by CC18002 treatment. Taken together, we have developed a novel screening system, including a cell model targeting URAT1 and two kinds of mouse models, for the discovery of novel uricosurics. Utilizing this system, compound CC18002 was investigated as a candidate URAT1 inhibitor to treat hyperuricemia.
Improving the Efficacy of Common Cancer Treatments via Targeted Therapeutics towards the Tumour and Its Microenvironment
Authors: Cecchi Daniel , Jackson Nolan , Beckham Wayne , Chithrani Devika B.
Published: January 2024

Cancer is defined as the uncontrolled proliferation of heterogeneous cell cultures in the body that develop abnormalities and mutations, leading to their resistance to many forms of treatment. Left untreated, these abnormal cell growths can lead to detrimental and even fatal complications for patients. Radiation therapy is involved in around 50% of cancer treatment workflows; however, it presents significant recurrence rates and normal tissue toxicity, given the inevitable deposition of the dose to the surrounding healthy tissue. Chemotherapy is another treatment modality with excessive normal tissue toxicity that significantly affects patients’ quality of life. To improve the therapeutic efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, multiple conjunctive modalities have been proposed, which include the targeting of components of the tumour microenvironment inhibiting tumour spread and anti-therapeutic pathways, increasing the oxygen content within the tumour to revert the hypoxic nature of the malignancy, improving the local dose deposition with metal nanoparticles, and the restriction of the cell cycle within radiosensitive phases. The tumour microenvironment is largely responsible for inhibiting nanoparticle capture within the tumour itself and improving resistance to various forms of cancer therapy. In this review, we discuss the current literature surrounding the administration of molecular and nanoparticle therapeutics, their pharmacokinetics, and contrasting mechanisms of action. The review aims to demonstrate the advancements in the field of conjugated nanomaterials and radiotherapeutics targeting, inhibiting, or bypassing the tumour microenvironment to promote further research that can improve treatment outcomes and toxicity rates.
High-Resolution Image Processing of Probe-Based Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy Based on Multistage Neural Networks and Cross-Channel Attention Module
Authors: Qiu Yufei , Zhang Haojie , Yang Kun , Zhai Tong , Lu Yipeng , Cao Zhongwei , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: January 2024

Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) is a subcellular in vivo imaging technique that generates diagnostic images revealing malignant structural modifications in epithelial tissues. In the clinical diagnosis of probe confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE), the image background generally has the problems of dynamic blur or information loss, which is not conducive to achieving high-resolution and clear pCLE imaging. In recent years, deep learning technology has achieved remarkable results in image deblurring. For the task of recovering high-resolution pCLE images, the current methods still suffer from the following drawbacks: it is difficult to choose a strategy to make CNN converge at a deeper level and mainstream methods cannot handle the complex balance between spatial details and high-level feature information well when reconstructing clear images. In order to solve the problem, we propose a new cross-channel attention, multistage, high-resolution pCLE image deblurring structure. This methodology improves the supervised attention mechanism, enhances the ability of feature extraction and fusion capabilities, and improves the quality of image deblurring by adding cross-channel attention module (CAM) into the multistage neural networks’ architecture. The experimental results show that the average peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of the proposed model on the dataset is as high as 29.643 dB, and the structural similarity (SSIM) reaches 0.855. This method is superior to the prior algorithms in the visualization of recovered images, and the edge and texture details of the restored pCLE images are clearer.