bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Densification of Two Forms of Nanostructured TATB under Uniaxial Die Pressures: A USAXS–SAXS Study
Authors: Zhou Yan , Shi Jing , Henderson Mark Julian , Li Xiuhong , Tian Feng , Duan Xiaohui , Tian Qiang , Almásy László
Published: February 2023

Sequential ultra-small-angle and small-angle and X-ray scattering (USAXS and SAXS) measurements of hierarchical microstructure of a common energetic material, the high explosive 2,4,6-Triamino-1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TATB), were performed to follow the microstructure evolution upon applied pressure. The pellets were prepared by two different routes—die pressed from a nanoparticle form and a nano-network form of TATB powder. The derived structural parameters, such as void size, porosity, and the interface area, reflected the response of TATB under compaction. Three populations of voids were observed in the probed q range from 0.007 to 7 nm−1. The inter-granular voids with size larger than 50 nm were sensitive to low pressures and had a smooth interface with the TATB matrix. The inter-granular voids with size of ~10 nm exhibited a less volume-filling ratio at high pressures (>15 kN) as indicated by a decrease of the volume fractal exponent. The response of these structural parameters to external pressures implied that the main densification mechanisms under die compaction were the flow, fracture, and plastic deformation of the TATB granules. Compared to the nanoparticle TATB, the applied pressure strongly influenced the nano-network TATB due to its more uniform structure. The findings and research methods of this work provide insights into the structural evolution of TATB during densification.
Smart Magnetic Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Spoială Angela , Ilie Cornelia-Ioana , Motelica Ludmila , Ficai Denisa , Semenescu Augustin , Oprea Ovidiu-Cristian , Ficai Anton
Published: February 2023

Cancer remains the most devastating disease, being one of the main factors of death and morbidity worldwide since ancient times. Although early diagnosis and treatment represent the correct approach in the fight against cancer, traditional therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, have some limitations (lack of specificity, cytotoxicity, and multidrug resistance). These limitations represent a continuous challenge for determining optimal therapies for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Cancer diagnosis and treatment have seen significant achievements with the advent of nanotechnology and a wide range of nanoparticles. Due to their special advantages, such as low toxicity, high stability, good permeability, biocompatibility, improved retention effect, and precise targeting, nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 1 nm to 100 nm have been successfully used in cancer diagnosis and treatment by solving the limitations of conventional cancer treatment, but also overcoming multidrug resistance. Additionally, choosing the best cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management is extremely important. The use of nanotechnology and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) represents an effective alternative in the simultaneous diagnosis and treatment of cancer using nano-theranostic particles that facilitate early-stage detection and selective destruction of cancer cells. The specific properties, such as the control of the dimensions and the specific surface through the judicious choice of synthesis methods, and the possibility of targeting the target organ by applying an internal magnetic field, make these nanoparticles effective alternatives for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This review discusses the use of MNPs in cancer diagnosis and treatment and provides future perspectives in the field.
Temperature Evolution of Two-State Lasing in Microdisk Lasers with InAs/InGaAs Quantum Dots
Authors: Makhov Ivan , Ivanov Konstantin , Moiseev Eduard , Fominykh Nikita , Dragunova Anna , Kryzhanovskaya Natalia , Zhukov Alexey
Published: February 2023

One-state and two-state lasing is investigated experimentally and through numerical simulation as a function of temperature in microdisk lasers with Stranski–Krastanow InAs/InGaAs/GaAs quantum dots. Near room temperature, the temperature-induced increment of the ground-state threshold current density is relatively weak and can be described by a characteristic temperature of about 150 K. At elevated temperatures, a faster (super-exponential) increase in the threshold current density is observed. Meanwhile, the current density corresponding to the onset of two-state lasing was found to decrease with increasing temperature, so that the interval of current density of pure one-state lasing becomes narrower with the temperature increase. Above a certain critical temperature, ground-state lasing completely disappears. This critical temperature drops from 107 to 37 °C as the microdisk diameter decreases from 28 to 20 μm. In microdisks with a diameter of 9 μm, a temperature-induced jump in the lasing wavelength from the first excited-state to second excited-state optical transition is observed. A model describing the system of rate equations and free carrier absorption dependent on the reservoir population provides a satisfactory agreement with experimental results. The temperature and threshold current corresponding to the quenching of ground-state lasing can be well approximated by linear functions of saturated gain and output loss.
Interfacial Characterization and Thermal Conductivity of Diamond/Cu Composites Prepared by Liquid-Solid Separation Technique
Authors: Li Yaqiang , Zhou Hongyu , Wu Chunjing , Yin Zheng , Liu Chang , Liu Junyou , Shi Zhongliang
Published: February 2023

Diamond/Cu composites are widely studied as a new generation of thermal management materials in the field of electronic packaging and heat sink materials. The surface modification of diamond can improve interfacial bonding between the diamond and Cu matrix. The Ti-coated diamond/Cu composites are prepared via an independently developed liquid-solid separation (LSS) technology. It is worth noting that there are obvious differences for the surface roughness between the diamond-{100} and -{111} face by AFM analysis, which may be related to the surface energy of different facets. In this work, the formation of titanium carbide (TiC) phase makes up the chemical incompatibility between the diamond and copper, and the thermal conductivities of 40 vol.% Ti-coated diamond/Cu composites can be improved to reach 457.22 W·m−1·K−1. The results estimated by the differential effective medium (DEM) model illustrate that the thermal conductivity for 40 vol.% Ti-coated diamond/Cu composites show a dramatic decline with increasing TiC layer thickness, giving a critical value of ~260 nm.
Exploring the Enhancement of Exchange Bias in Innovative Core/Shell/Shell Structures: Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of Co-Oxide/Co and Co-Oxide/Co/Co-Oxide Inverted Nanostructures
Authors: Ghoshani Maral , Mozaffari Morteza , Acet Mehmet , Hosseini Mahshid , Vashaee Daryoosh
Published: February 2023

In this study, we investigate the enhancement of exchange bias in core/shell/shell structures by synthesizing single inverted core/shell (Co-oxide/Co) and core/shell/shell (Co-oxide/Co/Co-oxide) nanostructures through a two-step reduction and oxidation method. We evaluate the magnetic properties of the structures and study the effect of shell thickness on the exchange bias by synthesizing various shell thicknesses of Co-oxide/Co/Co-oxide nanostructures. The extra exchange coupling formed at the shell–shell interface in the core/shell/shell structure leads to a remarkable increase in the coercivity and the strength of the exchange bias by three and four orders, respectively. The strongest exchange bias is achieved for the sample comprising the thinnest outer Co-oxide shell. Despite the general declining trend of the exchange bias with Co-oxide shell thickness, we also observe a nonmonotonic behavior in which the exchange bias oscillates slightly as the shell thickness increases. This phenomenon is ascribed to the dependence of the antiferromagnetic outer shell thickness variation at the expense of the simultaneous opposite variation in the ferromagnetic inner shell.
Room Temperature Polymorphism in WO3 Produced by Resistive Heating of W Wires
Authors: Rodríguez Beatriz , Dolado Jaime , López-Sánchez Jesus , Hidalgo Pedro , Méndez Bianchi
Published: February 2023

Polymorphous WO3 micro- and nanostructures have been synthesized by the controlled Joule heating of tungsten wires under ambient conditions in a few seconds. The growth on the wire surface is assisted by the electromigration process and it is further enhanced by the application of an external electric field through a pair of biased parallel copper plates. In this case, a high amount of WO3 material is also deposited on the copper electrodes, consisting of a few cm2 area. The temperature measurements of the W wire agrees with the values calculated by a finite element model, which has allowed us to establish the threshold density current to trigger the WO3 growth. The structural characterization of the produced microstructures accounts for the γ-WO3 (monoclinic I), which is the common stable phase at room temperature, along with low temperature phases, known as δ-WO3 (triclinic) on structures formed on the wire surface and ϵ-WO3 (monoclinic II) on material deposited on external electrodes. These phases allow for a high oxygen vacancies concentration, which is interesting in photocatalysis and sensing applications. The results could help to design experiments to produce oxide nanomaterials from other metal wires by this resistive heating method with scaling-up potential.
Silver and Samaria-Doped Ceria (Ag-SDC) Cermet Cathode for Low-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Jeong Davin , Lim Yonghyun , Kim Hyeontaek , Park Yongchan , Hong Soonwook
Published: February 2023

This study demonstrated a silver (Ag) and samarium-doped ceria (SDC) mixed ceramic and metal composite (i.e., cermet) as a cathode for low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (LT-SOFCs). Introducing the Ag-SDC cermet cathode for LT-SOFCs revealed that the ratio between Ag and SDC, which is a crucial factor for catalytic reactions, can be tuned by the co-sputtering process, resulting in enhanced triple phase boundary (TPB) density in the nanostructure. Ag-SDC cermet not only successfully performed as a cathode to increase the performance of LT-SOFCs by decreasing polarization resistance but also exceeded the catalytic activity of platinum (Pt) due to the improved oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). It was also found that less than half of Ag content was effective to increase TPB density, preventing oxidation of the Ag surface as well.
Templated Synthesis of Diamond Nanopillar Arrays Using Porous Anodic Aluminium Oxide (AAO) Membranes
Authors: Zhang Chenghao , Liu Zhichao , Li Chun , Cao Jian , Buijnsters Josephus G.
Published: February 2023

Diamond nanostructures are mostly produced from bulk diamond (single- or polycrystalline) by using time-consuming and/or costly subtractive manufacturing methods. In this study, we report the bottom-up synthesis of ordered diamond nanopillar arrays by using porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO). Commercial ultrathin AAO membranes were adopted as the growth template in a straightforward, three-step fabrication process involving chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and the transfer and removal of the alumina foils. Two types of AAO membranes with distinct nominal pore size were employed and transferred onto the nucleation side of CVD diamond sheets. Subsequently, diamond nanopillars were grown directly on these sheets. After removal of the AAO template by chemical etching, ordered arrays of submicron and nanoscale diamond pillars with ~325 nm and ~85 nm diameters were successfully released.
Single-Electron Transport and Detection of Graphene Quantum Dots
Authors: Li Xinxing , Sui Jinggao , Fang Jingyue
Published: February 2023

The integrated structure of graphene single-electron transistor and nanostrip electrometer was prepared using the semiconductor fabrication process. Through the electrical performance test of the large sample number, qualified devices were selected from low-yield samples, which exhibited an obvious Coulomb blockade effect. The results show that the device can deplete the electrons in the quantum dot structure at low temperatures, thus, accurately controlling the number of electrons captured by the quantum dot. At the same time, the nanostrip electrometer coupled with the quantum dot can be used to detect the quantum dot signal, that is, the change in the number of electrons in the quantum dot, because of its quantized conductivity characteristics.
Integrated Analysis of Gut Microbiome and Liver Metabolome to Evaluate the Effects of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation on Lipopolysaccharide/D-galactosamine-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Yuan Chunchun , Fan Jinghui , Jiang Lai , Ye Wenxin , Chen Zhuo , Wu Wenzi , Huang Qixin , Qian Lichun
Published: February 2023

Acute liver failure (ALF) refers to the occurrence of massive hepatocyte necrosis in a short time, with multiple complications, including inflammatory response, hepatic encephalopathy, and multiple organ failure. Additionally, effective therapies for ALF are lacking. There exists a relationship between the human intestinal microbiota and liver, so intestinal microbiota modulation may be a strategy for therapy of hepatic diseases. In previous studies, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from fit donors has been used to modulate intestinal microbiota widely. Here, we established a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/D-galactosamine (D-gal) induced ALF to explore the preventive and therapeutic effects of FMT, and its mechanism of action. We found that FMT decreased hepatic aminotransferase activity and serum total bilirubin levels, and decreased hepatic pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS/D-gal challenged mice (p < 0.05). Moreover, FMT gavage ameliorated LPS/D-gal induced liver apoptosis and markedly reduced cleaved caspase-3 levels, and improved histopathological features of the liver. FMT gavage also restored LPS/D-gal-evoked gut microbiota dysbiosis by modifying the colonic microbial composition, improving the abundance of unclassified_o_Bacteroidales (p < 0.001), norank_f_Muribaculaceae (p < 0.001), and Prevotellaceae_UCG-001 (p < 0.001), while reducing that of Lactobacillus (p < 0.05) and unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae (p < 0.05). Metabolomics analysis revealed that FMT significantly altered LPS/D-gal induced disordered liver metabolites. Pearson’s correlation revealed strong correlations between microbiota composition and liver metabolites. Our findings suggest that FMT ameliorate ALF by modulating gut microbiota and liver metabolism, and can used as a potential preventive and therapeutic strategy for ALF.
Association between Dietary Habits and Pancreatitis among Individuals of European Ancestry: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Mao Xiaotong , Huang Chunyou , Wang Yuanchen , Mao Shenghan , Li Zhaoshen , Zou Wenbin , Liao Zhuan
Published: February 2023

Dietary factors are believed to potentially influence the risk of pancreatitis. Here, we systematically investigated the causal relationships between dietary habits and pancreatitis by using two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). Large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics for dietary habits were obtained from the UK Biobank. GWAS data for acute pancreatitis (AP), chronic pancreatitis (CP), alcohol-induced AP (AAP) and alcohol-induced CP (ACP) were from the FinnGen consortium. We performed univariable and multivariable MR analyses to evaluate the causal association between dietary habits and pancreatitis. Genetically driven alcohol drinking was associated with increased odds of AP, CP, AAP and ACP (all with p < 0.05). Genetic predisposition to higher dried fruit intake was associated with reduced risk of AP (OR = 0.280, p = 1.909 × 10−5) and CP (OR = 0.361, p = 0.009), while genetic predisposition to fresh fruit intake was associated with reduced risk of AP (OR = 0.448, p = 0.034) and ACP (OR = 0.262, p = 0.045). Genetically predicted higher consumption of pork (OR = 5.618, p = 0.022) or processed meat (OR = 2.771, p = 0.007) had a significant causal association with AP, and genetically predicted higher processed meat intake increased the risk of CP (OR = 2.463, p = 0.043). Our MR study showed that fruit intake may be protective against pancreatitis, whereas dietary intake of processed meat has potential adverse impacts. These findings may inform prevention strategies and interventions directed toward dietary habits and pancreatitis.
Early Tube Feeding after Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG): An Observational Study
Authors: Strahm Rachel , Weber Manuel , Wiest Reiner , Schmitt Kai-Uwe
Published: February 2023

This study investigated whether enteral nutrition by early tube feeding led to changes in clinical parameters compared to tube feeding after 24 h. Starting on 1 January 2021, and following the latest update of the ESPEN guidelines on enteral nutrition, patients with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) received tube feeding 4 h after tube insertion. An observational study was conducted to analyze whether the new scheme affected patient complaints, complications, or hospitalization duration compared to the previous procedure of tube feeding starting after 24 h. Clinical patient records from one year before and one year after the introduction of the new scheme were examined. A total of 98 patients were included, and of those 47 received tube feeding 24 h after tube insertion, and 51 received tube feeding 4 h after tube insertion. The new scheme did not influence the frequency or severity of patient complaints or complications related to tube feeding (all p-values > 0.05). However, the study showed that the length of stay in hospital was significantly shorter when following the new scheme (p = 0.030). In this observational cohort study an earlier start of tube feeding did not produce any negative consequences but did reduce the duration of hospitalization. Therefore, an early start, as suggested in the recent ESPEN guidelines, is supported and recommended.
The Effect of a Vegan Diet on the Coverage of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Iodine among People from Poland
Authors: Zaremba Agata , Gramza-Michalowska Anna , Pal Kunal , Szymandera-Buszka Krystyna
Published: February 2023

The aim of this research was to estimate the effect of a vegan diet on the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) coverage for iodine in people from Poland. It was hypothesized that the problem of iodine deficiency is a concern, especially among vegans. The survey study was conducted in the years 2021–2022 on 2200 people aged 18–80 with omnivore and vegan diets. The exclusion criteria in the study were pregnancy and lactation. The study found that the coverage of RDA for iodine among people with a vegan diet was lower than among people with an omnivore diet (p < 0.05); 90% of the participants with a vegan diet had an iodine intake below 150 µg/day. Plant-based dairy and meat analogs were consumed by vegans frequently and in large portions, but none were fortified with iodine. It was found that iodized salt was each group’s primary source of iodine. However, it was observed that the iodine supply from this source was limited among vegans, especially in female subjects, who consumed less salt and smaller portions of meals. That is why consideration should be given to the iodine fortification of plant-based foods commonly consumed by vegans.
The Utilization of Bee Products as a Holistic Approach to Managing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome-Related Infertility
Authors: Ali Ahmad , Paramanya Additiya , Poojari Payal , Arslan-Acaroz Damla , Acaroz Ulas , Kostić Aleksandar Ž.
Published: February 2023

Bee products, including honey, have been utilized since ancient times for nutritional and therapeutic purposes. Recently, other bee products such as bee pollen, royal jelly, and propolis have caught a lot of attention. Being high in antioxidants and bioactive compounds, these products have established their applications in the pharmaceutical field as supplementary or alternative medicines. This review focuses on their use against polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)-related infertility. A systematic search of electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted from their inceptions up to November 2022. Studies with a small sample size, studies with inconclusive data, and pre-prints have been excluded. A narrative synthesis was performed during draft preparation after the authors independently performed a literature search. A total of 47 studies were finalized for the review. It can be observed that in vivo data on the use of bee products in treating PCOS mostly deals with their use in synergism with the PCOS medicines to enhance their effect and/or curb their side effects; however, clinical trials for the same are limited. With the amount of data being limited, it is difficult to map out the mechanism by which these products act in managing PCOS inside the human body. The review gives detailed insights into the reversal and restorative properties of bee products against the aberrations in reproductive health caused by PCOS.
Urban–Rural Disparities in Knowledge, Use and Perceived Benefits of Nutrition Labels in China: Evidence from 10 Provinces
Authors: Fan Linlin , Wang Zhigang , Zhao Yiwen , Ma Ye
Published: February 2023

There exist significant gaps in nutritional status between urban and rural populations in China. The previous literature has shown that more knowledge and usage of nutrition labels are instrumental in improving diet quality and health. The aim of the study is to analyze: (1) Are there urban–rural disparities in consumer knowledge, use and perceived benefits of nutrition labels in China; (2) If so, what are the magnitudes of the disparities; (3) What can explain the disparities, and how can the disparities be reduced? The Oaxaca–Blinder (O-B) decomposition is utilized to analyze the predictors of urban–rural disparities in nutrition labels based on a self-conducted study of Chinese individuals. The information from a total of 1635 individuals (aged 11–81 years) across China in 2016 was collected in the survey. We find that rural respondents have less knowledge, lower usage and perceived benefits of nutrition labels than their urban counterparts. Demographics, focus on food safety, frequent shopping locations and income jointly explain 98.9% of the disparity in the knowledge of nutrition labels. Nutrition label knowledge is the predictor which contributes most to urban–rural disparity in label use—accounting for 29.6% of the disparity. Nutrition label knowledge and use are the two biggest predictors of disparities in perceived benefits—accounting for 29.7% and 22.8% of the disparity in perceived benefits, respectively. Our study suggests that policies aiming to improve income and education, as well as raising awareness of food safety in rural areas, are promising in closing the urban–rural disparities in nutrition labels knowledge, use, diet quality and health in China.
How Much Do Front-Of-Pack Labels Correlate with Food Environmental Impacts?
Authors: Muzzioli Luca , Donini Lorenzo Maria , Mazziotta Matteo , Iosa Marco , Frigerio Francesco , Poggiogalle Eleonora , Lenzi Andrea , Pinto Alessandro
Published: February 2023

Nutrient profiling and front-of-pack labeling (FOPL) have been developed to categorize food products as more or less healthy based on their nutrient content and to easily communicate this information to consumers. The goal is to change individual food choices toward a healthier diet. Since global climate change has recently become an urgent matter, this paper also aims to investigate the correlations between different food health scales, including some FOPLs currently adopted by one or more countries, and several sustainability indicators. For this purpose, a food sustainability composite index has been developed to summarize environmental indicators and compare food scales. Results indicate, as expected, that well-known healthy and sustainable diets are strongly correlated with both environmental indicators and the composite index, while FOPLs based on portions or on 100 g show moderate and weak correlation values, respectively. Within-category analysis has not found any associations that explain these results. Hence, 100 g standard, on which FOPLs are usually developed, seems not to be the ideal basis for developing a label that aspires to communicate healthiness and sustainability in a unique format, as required by the need for simple messaging. On the contrary, FOPLs based on portions appear to be more likely to achieve this goal.
The Long Way to Establish the Ergogenic Effect of Caffeine on Strength Performance: An Overview Review
Authors: Giráldez-Costas Verónica , Del Coso Juan , Mañas Asier , Salinero Juan José
Published: February 2023

This overview review aimed to describe the evolution of the characteristics of the research on caffeine effects on strength. A total of 189 experimental studies with 3459 participants were included. The median sample size was 15 participants, with an over-representation of men vs. women (79.4 vs. 20.6%). Studies on young participants and elders were scarce (4.2%). Most studies tested a single dose of caffeine (87.3%), while 72.0% used doses adjusted to body mass. Single-dose studies ranged from 1.7 to 7 mg/kg (4.8 ± 1.4 mg/kg), while dose–response studies ranged from 1 to 12 mg/kg. Caffeine was mixed with other substances in 27.0% of studies, although only 10.1% of studies analyzed the caffeine interaction with these substances. Capsules (51.9%) and beverages (41.3%) were the most common forms of caffeine administration. Similar proportions of studies focused on upper (24.9%) or lower body strength 37.6% (37.6% both). Participants’ daily intake of caffeine was reported in 68.3% of studies. Overall, the pattern in the study of caffeine’s effects on strength performance has been carried out with experiments including 11–15 adults, using a single and moderate dose of caffeine adjusted to participants’ body mass in the form of a capsule.
Effects of Climate, Sun Exposure, and Dietary Intake on Vitamin D Concentrations in Pregnant Women: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Huang Ya-Li , Pham Thu T. M. , Chen Yi-Chun , Chang Jung-Su , Chao Jane C.-J. , Bai Chyi-Huey
Published: February 2023

Background: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is a global micronutrient issue that commonly occurs in pregnant women, leading to adverse health outcomes. We examined the role of sunlight-related factors and dietary vitamin D intake on vitamin D concentrations among pregnant women in different climate zones. Methods: We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey in Taiwan between June 2017 and February 2019. The data of 1502 pregnant women were collected, including sociodemographic information and characteristics related to pregnancy, diet, and sun exposure. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were measured, and VDD was assessed as a concentration of less than 20 ng/mL. Logistic regression analyses were used to explore the factors associated with VDD. Furthermore, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve was used to analyze the contribution of sunlight-related factors and dietary vitamin D intake to vitamin D status stratified by climate zones. Results: The prevalence of VDD was 30.1% and was the highest in the north. Sufficient intake of red meat (odds ratio (OR): 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.32–0.75; p = 0.002), vitamin D and/or calcium supplements (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.39–0.66; p < 0.001), sun exposure (OR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.57–0.98; p = 0.034), and blood draw during sunny months (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.46–0.77; p < 0.001) were associated with a lower likelihood of VDD. Additionally, in northern Taiwan, which is characterized by a subtropical climate, dietary vitamin D intake (AUROC: 0.580, 95% CI: 0.528–0.633) had a greater influence on vitamin D status than did sunlight-related factors (AUROC: 0.536, 95% CI: 0.508–0.589) with a z value = 51.98, p < 0.001. By contrast, sunlight-related factors (AUROC: 0.659, 95% CI: 0.618–0.700) were more important than dietary vitamin D intake (AUROC: 0.617, 95% CI, 0.575–0.660) among women living in tropical areas of Taiwan (z value = 54.02, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Dietary vitamin D intake was essential to alleviate VDD in the tropical region, whereas sunlight-related factors played a greater role in subtropical areas. Safe sunlight exposure and adequate dietary vitamin D intake should be promoted appropriately as a strategic healthcare program.
Effect of Vitamin E Supplementation on Chronic Insomnia Disorder in Postmenopausal Women: A Prospective, Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Thongchumnum Wirun , Vallibhakara Sakda Arj-Ong , Sophonsritsuk Areepan , Vallibhakara Orawin
Published: February 2023

Chronic insomnia disorder is one of the most common problems in postmenopausal women, exacerbated by underdiagnosis and improper treatment. This double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the potential of vitamin E to treat chronic insomnia as an alternative to sedative drugs and hormonal therapy. The study enrolled 160 postmenopausal women with chronic insomnia disorder, divided randomly into two groups. The vitamin E group received 400 units of mixed tocopherol daily, while the placebo group received an identical oral capsule. The primary outcome of this study was sleep quality assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a self-evaluated and standardized questionnaire. The secondary outcome was the percentage of participants using sedative drugs. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the study groups. However, the median PSQI score at baseline was slightly higher in the vitamin E group compared with the placebo (13 (6, 20) vs. 11 (6, 20); p-value 0.019). After one month of intervention, the PSQI score was significantly lower (indicating better sleep quality) in the vitamin E group compared with the placebo (6 (1, 18) vs. 9 (1, 19); p-value 0.012). Moreover, the improvement score was significantly higher in the vitamin E group compared with the placebo (5 (−6, 14) vs. 1 (−5,13); p-value < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant reduction in the percentage of patients using sedative drugs in the vitamin E group (15%; p-value 0.009), while this reduction was not statistically significant in the placebo group (7.5%; p-value 0.077). This study demonstrates vitamin E’s potential as an excellent alternative treatment for chronic insomnia disorder that improves sleep quality and reduces sedative drug use.
The Effect of Weekly 50,000 IU Vitamin D3 Supplements on the Serum Levels of Selected Cytokines Involved in Cytokine Storm: A Randomized Clinical Trial in Adults with Vitamin D Deficiency
Authors: Bader Dana A. , Abed Anas , Mohammad Beisan A. , Aljaberi Ahmad , Sundookah Ahmad , Habash Maha , Alsayed Ahmad R. , Abusamak Mohammad , Al-Shakhshir Sami , Abu-Samak Mahmoud
Published: February 2023

This research aimed to evaluate the effects of high-dose cholecalciferol (VD3) supplements (50,000 IU/week) on selected circulating cytokines associated with cytokine storms in adults with vitamin D deficiency. This clinical trial, based in Jordan, included 50 participants receiving vitamin D3 supplements (50,000 IU/week) for 8 weeks; the exact number was assigned to the control group. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumor necrotic factor-α (TNF-α), and leptin were measured in serum at baseline and 10 weeks (wash out: 2 weeks). Our results revealed that vitamin D3 supplementation significantly increased the serum levels of 25OHD, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β, and leptin compared with baseline. In contrast, the serum level of TNF-α insignificantly increased in the group receiving vitamin D3 supplementation. Although the observations of this trial may refer to a potential negative effect of VD3 supplementation during cytokine storms, further trials are required to clarify the potential benefits of VD3 supplement during cytokine storms.
Natural Products in Precision Oncology: Plant-Based Small Molecule Inhibitors of Protein Kinases for Cancer Chemoprevention
Authors: Thompson Henry J. , Lutsiv Tymofiy
Published: February 2023

Striking progress is being made in cancer treatment by using small molecule inhibitors of specific protein kinases that are products of genes recognized as drivers for a specific type of cancer. However, the cost of newly developed drugs is high, and these pharmaceuticals are neither affordable nor accessible in most parts of the world. Accordingly, this narrative review aims to probe how these recent successes in cancer treatment can be reverse-engineered into affordable and accessible approaches for the global community. This challenge is addressed through the lens of cancer chemoprevention, defined as using pharmacological agents of natural or synthetic origin to impede, arrest, or reverse carcinogenesis at any stage in the disease process. In this regard, prevention refers to reducing cancer-related deaths. Recognizing the clinical successes and limitations of protein kinase inhibitor treatment strategies, the disciplines of pharmacognosy and chemotaxonomy are juxtaposed with current efforts to exploit the cancer kinome to describe a conceptual framework for developing a natural product-based approach for precision oncology.
Is the Triage System Welcomed in the Tertiary Hospital of the Limpopo Province? A Qualitative Study on Patient’s Perceptions
Authors: Phukubye Thabo Arthur , Ntho Tshepo Albert , Muthelo Livhuwani , Mbombi Masenyani Oupa , Bopape Mamare Adelaide , Mothiba Tebogo Maria
Published: February 2023

A triage system in the emergency department is necessary to prioritize and allocate scarce health resources to the medical needs of the patients to facilitate quality health service delivery. This paper aimed to ascertain if the triage system is welcomed in the tertiary hospital of Limpopo Province by exploring patients’ perceptions in the emergency department in South Africa. A qualitative research approach was used in this study with descriptive, explorative, and contextual research design to reach the research objective. Purposive sampling was used to select the patients who participated in semi-structured one-on-one interviews, which lasted between 30 and 45 min. The sample size was determined by data saturation after 14 participants were interviewed. A narrative qualitative analysis method was used to interpret and categorize the patients’ perceptions into seven domains of Benner’s theory. The six relevant domains illustrated mixed patients‘ perceptions regarding the triage system in the emergency departments. The domain-helping role of the triage system was overweighed by the dissatisfaction of the needy patients who waited for an extended period to receive emergency services. We conclude that the triage system at the selected tertiary hospital is not welcomed due to its disorganization and patient-related factors in the emergency departments. The findings of this paper are a point of reference for reinforcing the triage practice and improved quality service delivery by the emergency department healthcare professionals and the department of health policymakers. Furthermore, the authors propose that the seven domains of Benner’s theory can serve as a foundation for research and improving triage practice within emergency departments.
Looking for a Safe Bridge: Synthesis of P3HT-Bridge-TBO Block-Copolymers and Their Performance in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhivchikova Aleksandra N. , Klimovich Irina V. , Sideltsev Maxim E. , Elakshar Aly , Kapasharov Artur T. , Akkuratov Alexander V. , Nasibulin Albert G. , Stevenson Keith J. , Tepliakova Marina M.
Published: February 2023

Here, we present a synthesis of three novel conjugated block-copolymers (BCP) with general formula P3HT-bridge-TBO, where P3HT is a poly(3-hexyl)thiophene, TBO is a thiophene-benzothiadiazole block, and the bridge is composed of two fluorene units (FF) or two thiophenes (TT) or a mixture (TF). It is demonstrated that the physicochemical properties of the materials with different bridges are similar. Furthermore, P3HT-bridge-TBO materials are investigated in PSCs with classical n-i-p configuration for the first time. PSCs with BCPs reach average efficiencies with a top of 14.4% for P3HT-FF-TBO. At the same time, devices demonstrate spectacular long-term operation stability after 1000 h under constant illumination with minor changes in efficiency, while PSCs with state-of-the-art hole-transport layer demonstrate unstable behavior. This groundbreaking work demonstrates the potential of BCP to ensure the stable operation of perovskite photovoltaics.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Vaginal Bacteria in Inseminated Mares
Authors: Malaluang Pongpreecha , Wilén Elin , Frosth Sara , Lindahl Johanna F. , Hansson Ingrid , Morrell Jane M.
Published: February 2023

Antimicrobials are added to semen extenders to inhibit the growth of bacteria that are transferred to the semen during collection. However, this non-therapeutic use of antimicrobials could contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance. The objective of this study was to determine changes in the antibiotic susceptibility of vaginal microbiota after artificial insemination. Swabs were taken from the vagina of 26 mares immediately before artificial insemination and again 3 days later. Bacteria isolated from the vagina at both time points were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing. In total, 32 bacterial species were identified. There were increases in the resistance of Escherichia coli to trimethoprim (p = 0.0006), chloramphenicol and (p = 0.012) tetracycline (p = 0.03) between day 0 and day 3. However, there was no significant effect of exposure to antibiotics in semen extenders with respect to the resistance of Staphylococcus simulans and Streptococcus equisimilis (p > 0.05). Whole-genome sequencing indicated that most phenotypic resistance was associated with genes for resistance. These results indicate that the resistance patterns of vaginal bacteria may be affected by exposure to antibiotics; therefore, it would be prudent to minimize, or preferably, avoid using antibiotics in semen extenders.
The Composition of Subgingival Microbiome in Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Periodontitis Patients
Authors: Jastrząb Beata , Paśnik-Chwalik Barbara , Dębska-Łasut Katarzyna , Konopka Tomasz , Krajewski Piotr K. , Szepietowski Jacek C. , Matusiak Łukasz
Published: February 2023

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit of the intertriginous body areas. Recent findings have suggested the association between periodontitis and HS. This investigation aimed to characterize and compare the composition of subgingival microbiome between HS, periodontitis, and control patients. The nine crucial perio-pathogenic species and total bacteria were analyzed using RT-PCR based tests in samples collected from 30 patients with periodontitis, 30 patients with HS and 30 controls. Patients with HS were excluded if they had periodontitis and patients with periodontitis were excluded if they had HS. The mean total bacteria count was significantly higher in HS and periodontitis samples than in control samples (p < 0.05). The majority of perio-pathogens tested were more frequently detected in HS and periodontitis groups than among controls. Treponema denticola was the most common pathogen in individuals with HS (70%) and periodontitis (86.7%), while among controls Capnocytophyga gingivalis was the most frequently detected isolate (33.2%). The results of the present investigation demonstrated that HS and periodontitis patients share some similarities in their subgingival microbiome composition.
The Effect of Protozoa Indigenous to Lakewater and Wastewater on Decay of Fecal Indicator Bacteria and Coliphage
Authors: Korajkic Asja , McMinn Brian R. , Harwood Valerie J.
Published: February 2023

Fecal indicator bacteria (FIB: Escherichia coli and enterococci) are used to assess recreational water quality. Viral indicators (i.e., somatic and F+ coliphage), could improve the prediction of viral pathogens in recreational waters, however, the impact of environmental factors, including the effect of predatory protozoa source, on their survival in water is poorly understood. We investigated the effect of lakewater or wastewater protozoa, on the decay (decreasing concentrations over time) of culturable FIB and coliphages under sunlight and shaded conditions. FIB decay was generally greater than the coliphages and was more rapid when indicators were exposed to lake vs. wastewater protozoa. F+ coliphage decay was the least affected by experimental variables. Somatic coliphage decayed fastest in the presence of wastewater protozoa and sunlight, though their decay under shaded conditions was-10-fold less than F+ after 14 days. The protozoa source consistently contributed significantly to the decay of FIB, and somatic, though not the F+ coliphage. Sunlight generally accelerated decay, and shade reduced somatic coliphage decay to the lowest level among all the indicators. Differential responses of FIB, somatic, and F+ coliphages to environmental factors support the need for studies that address the relationship between the decay of coliphages and viral pathogens under environmentally relevant conditions.
The Role of the Fusarium oxysporum FTF2 Transcription Factor in Host Colonization and Virulence in Common Bean Plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Casado-del Castillo Virginia , Benito Ernesto P. , Díaz-Mínguez José María
Published: February 2023

The FTF (Fusarium Transcription Factor) gene family is composed of two members (FTF1 and FTF2) with high-sequence homology that encode transcription factors involved in the modulation of virulence in the F. oxysporum species complex (FOSC). While FTF1 is a multicopy gene exclusive of highly virulent strains of FOSC and is located in the accessory genome, FTF2 is a single-copy gene, located in the core genome, and well-conserved in all filamentous ascomycete fungi, except yeast. The involvement of FTF1 in the colonization of the vascular system and regulation of the expression of SIX effectors has been stablished. To address the role of FTF2, we generated and characterized mutants defective in FTF2 in a F. oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli weakly virulent strain and analyzed them together with the equivalent mutants formerly obtained in a highly virulent strain. The results obtained highlight a role for FTF2 as a negative regulator of the production of macroconidia and demonstrate that it is required for full virulence and the positive regulation of SIX effectors. In addition, gene expression analyses provided compelling evidence that FTF2 is involved in the regulation of hydrophobins likely required for plant colonization.
Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and WAT/BAT-Conversion Stimulation Induced by Novel PPAR Ligands: Results from Ex Vivo and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Recinella Lucia , De Filippis Barbara , Libero Maria Loreta , Ammazzalorso Alessandra , Chiavaroli Annalisa , Orlando Giustino , Ferrante Claudio , Giampietro Letizia , Veschi Serena , Cama Alessandro , Mannino Federica , Gasparo Irene , Bitto Alessandra , Amoroso Rosa , Brunetti Luigi , Leone Sheila
Published: February 2023

Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) not only regulates multiple metabolic pathways, but mediates various biological effects related to inflammation and oxidative stress. We investigated the effects of four new PPAR ligands containing a fibrate scaffold—the PPAR agonists (1a (αEC50 1.0 μM) and 1b (γEC50 0.012 μM)) and antagonists (2a (αIC50 6.5 μM) and 2b (αIC50 0.98 μM, with a weak antagonist activity on γ isoform))—on proinflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers. The PPAR ligands 1a-b and 2a-b (0.1–10 μM) were tested on isolated liver specimens treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), prostaglandin (PG) E2, and 8-iso-PGF2α were measured. The effects of these compounds on the gene expression of the adipose tissue markers of browning, PPARα, and PPARγ, in white adipocytes, were evaluated as well. We found a significant reduction in LPS-induced LDH, PGE2, and 8-iso-PGF2α levels after 1a treatment. On the other hand, 1b decreased LPS-induced LDH activity. Compared to the control, 1a stimulated uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), PR-(PRD1-BF1-RIZ1 homologous) domain containing 16 (PRDM16), deiodinase type II (DIO2), and PPARα and PPARγ gene expression, in 3T3-L1 cells. Similarly, 1b increased UCP1, DIO2, and PPARγ gene expression. 2a-b caused a reduction in the gene expression of UCP1, PRDM16, and DIO2 when tested at 10 μM. In addition, 2a-b significantly decreased PPARα gene expression. A significant reduction in PPARγ gene expression was also found after 2b treatment. The novel PPARα agonist 1a might be a promising lead compound and represents a valuable pharmacological tool for further assessment. The PPARγ agonist 1b could play a minor role in the regulation of inflammatory pathways.
Exploring Iberian Peninsula Lamiaceae as Potential Therapeutic Approaches in Wound Healing
Authors: Marques Mário P. , Mendonça Laura , Neves Beatriz G. , Varela Carla , Oliveira Paulo , Cabral Célia
Published: February 2023

Skin tissue has a crucial role in protecting the human body from external harmful agents, preventing wounds that frequently demand proper healing approaches. The ethnobotanical knowledge of specific regions with further investigation on their medicinal plants has been paramount to create new and effective therapeutical agents, including for dermatological purposes. This review attempts, for the first time, to investigate the traditional applications of Lamiaceae medicinal plants that are already used by local communities in the Iberian Peninsula in wound healing. Henceforward, Iberian ethnobotanical surveys were reviewed, and the information about the traditional wound healing practices of Lamiaceae was comprehensively summarized. Afterwards, the scientific validation of each Lamiaceae species was exhaustively checked. From this, eight out of twenty-nine Lamiaceae medicinal plants were highlighted by their wound-related pharmacological evidence and are in-depth presented in this review. We suggest that future studies should focus on the isolation and identification of the active molecules of these Lamiaceae, followed by robust clinical trials that may confirm the security and effectiveness of such natural-based approaches. This will in turn pave the way for more reliable wound healing treatments.