bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Gelatin-Based Hemostats on Fibroblasts and Relevant Growth Factors in Wound Healing
Authors: Garabet Waseem , Shabes Polina , Wolters Katharina Henrika , Rembe Julian-Dario , Ibing Wiebke , Wagenhäuser Markus Udo , Simon Florian , Schelzig Hubert , Oberhuber Alexander
Published: June 2023

Gelatin-based hemostats have been used in various surgical fields and showed advantageous effects on central aspects of wound healing when compared to cellulose-based hemostats. Nevertheless, the influence of gelatin-based hemostats on wound healing has not been fully explored yet. Hemostats were applied to fibroblast cell cultures for 5, 30, 60 min, 24 h, 7 and 14 days and measurements were taken at 3, 6, 12, 24 h and 7 or 14 days, respectively. Cell proliferation was quantified after different exposure times and a contraction assay was conducted to measure the extent of the extracellular matrix over time. We further assessed quantitative levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Fibroblast counts decreased significantly at 7 and 14 days independent of the application duration (p < 0.001 for 5 min application). The gelatin-based hemostat did not have a negative impact on cell matrix contraction. After application of gelatin-based hemostat, the basic fibroblast growth factor did not change; yet, the vascular endothelial growth factor significantly increased after a prolonged 24 h application time when compared to controls or to a 6 h exposure (p < 0.05). Gelatin-based hemostats did not impair contraction of the extracellular matrix or growth factor production (vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor), while cell proliferation diminished at late time points. In conclusion, the gelatin-based material seems to be compatible with central aspects of wound healing. For further clinical assessment, future animal and human studies are necessary.
Infant-Directed Speech to 3-Month-Old Severe Preterm Infants: The Influence of Birth Weight and Maternal Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Provera Alessandra , Neri Erica , Agostini Francesca
Published: June 2023

Severe premature birth (<32 weeks) is a risk factor for the development of maternal perinatal depression, while also affecting dyadic interactions and child outcomes. Although several studies have examined the impacts of prematurity and depression on early interactions, only a few studies have investigated the features of maternal verbal input. Furthermore, no study has investigated the relationship between the effect of severity of prematurity according to birth weight and maternal input. This study aimed to explore the effects of the severity of preterm birth and postnatal depression on maternal input during early interactions. The study included 64 mother–infant dyads, classified into three groups: 17 extremely low birth weight (ELBW) preterm infants, 17 very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants, and 30 full-term (FT) infants. At 3 months postpartum (corrected age for preterm infants), the dyads participated in a 5-min free interaction session. Maternal input was analyzed using the CHILDES system in terms of lexical and syntactic complexity (i.e., word types, word tokens, mean length of the utterance) and functional features. Maternal postnatal depression (MPD) was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. The results showed that in high-risk conditions (i.e., ELBW preterm birth and maternal postnatal depression), maternal input was characterized by a lower frequency of affect-salient speech and a higher proportion of information-salient speech, specifically as directives and questions, suggesting that mothers in these conditions may experience more difficulty in conveying affective content to their infants. Moreover, the more frequent use of questions may reflect an interactive style characterized by a higher level of intrusiveness. These findings provide preliminary evidence of the impacts of prematurity severity and maternal depression on maternal verbal input, highlighting the importance of assessing both factors in clinical practice. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the impacts of prematurity and depression on early interactions may inform the development of tailored interventions aimed at promoting positive parent–infant interactions and child development.
Ensemble Learning for Disease Prediction: A Review
Authors: Mahajan Palak , Uddin Shahadat , Hajati Farshid , Moni Mohammad Ali
Published: June 2023

Machine learning models are used to create and enhance various disease prediction frameworks. Ensemble learning is a machine learning technique that combines multiple classifiers to improve performance by making more accurate predictions than a single classifier. Although numerous studies have employed ensemble approaches for disease prediction, there is a lack of thorough assessment of commonly used ensemble approaches against highly researched diseases. Consequently, this study aims to identify significant trends in the performance accuracies of ensemble techniques (i.e., bagging, boosting, stacking, and voting) against five hugely researched diseases (i.e., diabetes, skin disease, kidney disease, liver disease, and heart conditions). Using a well-defined search strategy, we first identified 45 articles from the current literature that applied two or more of the four ensemble approaches to any of these five diseases and were published in 2016–2023. Although stacking has been used the fewest number of times (23) compared with bagging (41) and boosting (37), it showed the most accurate performance the most times (19 out of 23). The voting approach is the second-best ensemble approach, as revealed in this review. Stacking always revealed the most accurate performance in the reviewed articles for skin disease and diabetes. Bagging demonstrated the best performance for kidney disease (five out of six times) and boosting for liver and diabetes (four out of six times). The results show that stacking has demonstrated greater accuracy in disease prediction than the other three candidate algorithms. Our study also demonstrates variability in the perceived performance of different ensemble approaches against frequently used disease datasets. The findings of this work will assist researchers in better understanding current trends and hotspots in disease prediction models that employ ensemble learning, as well as in determining a more suitable ensemble model for predictive disease analytics. This article also discusses variability in the perceived performance of different ensemble approaches against frequently used disease datasets.
Assessment of Functional Capacity in Patients with Nondialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease with the Glittre Activities of Daily Living Test
Authors: Balata Mauro Ribeiro , Ferreira Arthur Sá , da Silva Sousa Ariane , Meinertz Laura Felipe , de Sá Luciana Milhomem , Araujo Vinicius Guterres , Papathanasiou Jannis , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: June 2023

This study evaluated the functional capacity measured by the Glittre-ADL test (TGlittre) in patients with nondialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (NDD-CKD) and analyzed the test’s associations with muscle strength, physical activity level (PAL), and quality of life. Methods: Thirty patients with NDD-CKD underwent the following evaluations: the TGlittre; the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ); the Short Form-36 (SF-36); and handgrip strength (HGS). The absolute value and percentage of the theoretical TGlittre time were 4.3 (3.3–5.2) min and 143.3 ± 32.7%, respectively. The main difficulties in completing the TGlittre were squatting to perform shelving and manual tasks, which were reported by 20% and 16.7% of participants, respectively. The TGlittre time correlated negatively with HGS (r = −0.513, p = 0.003). The TGlittre time was significantly different between the PALs considered “sedentary”, “irregularly active”, and “active” (p = 0.038). There were no significant correlations between TGlittre time and the SF-36 dimensions. Patients with NDD-CKD had a reduced functional capacity to exercise with difficulties performing squatting and manual tasks. There was a relationship between TGlittre time and both HGS and PAL. Thus, the incorporation of the TGlittre in the evaluation of these patients may improve the risk stratification and individualization of therapeutic care.
Factors Informing the Development of a Clinical Pathway and Patients’ Quality of Life after a Non-Union Fracture of the Lower Limb
Authors: Magida Nontembiso , Myezwa Hellen , Mudzi Witness
Published: June 2023

Patients with non-union fractures spend extended periods of time in the hospital following poor healing. Patients have to make several follow-up visits for medical and rehabilitation purposes. However, the clinical pathways and quality of life of these patients are unknown. This prospective study aimed to identify the clinical pathways (CPs) of 22 patients with lower-limb non-union fractures whilst determining their quality of life. Data were collected from hospital records from admission to discharge, utilizing a CP questionnaire. We used the same questionnaire to track patients’ follow-up frequency, involvement in activities of daily living, and final outcomes at six months. We used the Short Form-36 questionnaire to assess patients’ initial quality of life. The Kruskal–Wallis test compared the quality of life domains across different fracture sites. We examined CPs using medians and inter-quantile ranges. During the six-month follow-up period, 12 patients with lower-limb non-union fractures were readmitted. All of the patients had impairments, limited activity, and participation restrictions. Lower-limb fractures can have a substantial impact on emotional and physical health, and lower-limb non-union fractures may have an even greater effect on the emotional and physical health of patients, necessitating a more holistic approach to patient care.
Does Maintained Medical Aid Coverage Affect Healthy Lifestyle Factors, Metabolic Syndrome-Related Health Status, and Individuals’ Use of Healthcare Services?
Authors: Park Ilsu , Lee Kyounga , Yim Eunshil
Published: June 2023

Concerns about the moral hazards and usage of universal health insurance require examination. This study aimed to analyze changes in lifestyle, metabolic syndrome-related health status, and individuals’ tendency to use healthcare services according to changes in the eligibility status of medical aid recipients. This paper reports a retrospective cohort study that involved analyzing data from 2366 medical aid recipients aged 40 years or older who underwent national health screenings in 2012 and 2014. Of the recipients, 1606 participants continued to be eligible for medical aid (the “maintained” group) and 760 changed from being medical aid recipients to National Health Insurance (NHI) enrollees (the “changed” group). Compared to the “changed” group, the “maintained” group was less likely to quit smoking, more likely to begin smoking, less likely to reduce binge drinking to moderate drinking, and had a significant increase in blood glucose and waist circumference. Annual total medical expenses also increased significantly in the “maintained” group. Since the mere strengthening of healthcare coverage may lead to moral hazards and the failure to link individuals’ tendency to use healthcare services and outcomes, establishing mechanisms is necessary to educate people about the health-related outcomes of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and ensure the appropriate use of healthcare services.
ChatGPT and the Future of Digital Health: A Study on Healthcare Workers’ Perceptions and Expectations
Authors: Temsah Mohamad-Hani , Aljamaan Fadi , Malki Khalid H. , Alhasan Khalid , Altamimi Ibraheem , Aljarbou Razan , Bazuhair Faisal , Alsubaihin Abdulmajeed , Abdulmajeed Naif , Alshahrani Fatimah S. , Temsah Reem , Alshahrani Turki , Al-Eyadhy Lama , Alkhateeb Serin Mohammed , Saddik Basema , Halwani Rabih , Jamal Amr , Al-Tawfiq Jaffar A. , Al-Eyadhy Ayman
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and intended practices of healthcare workers (HCWs) in Saudi Arabia towards ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence (AI) Chatbot, within the first three months after its launch. We also aimed to identify potential barriers to AI Chatbot adoption among healthcare professionals. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1057 HCWs in Saudi Arabia, distributed electronically via social media channels from 21 February to 6 March 2023. The survey evaluated HCWs’ familiarity with ChatGPT-3.5, their satisfaction, intended future use, and perceived usefulness in healthcare practice. Of the respondents, 18.4% had used ChatGPT for healthcare purposes, while 84.1% of non-users expressed interest in utilizing AI Chatbots in the future. Most participants (75.1%) were comfortable with incorporating ChatGPT into their healthcare practice. HCWs perceived the Chatbot to be useful in various aspects of healthcare, such as medical decision-making (39.5%), patient and family support (44.7%), medical literature appraisal (48.5%), and medical research assistance (65.9%). A majority (76.7%) believed ChatGPT could positively impact the future of healthcare systems. Nevertheless, concerns about credibility and the source of information provided by AI Chatbots (46.9%) were identified as the main barriers. Although HCWs recognize ChatGPT as a valuable addition to digital health in the early stages of adoption, addressing concerns regarding accuracy, reliability, and medicolegal implications is crucial. Therefore, due to their unreliability, the current forms of ChatGPT and other Chatbots should not be used for diagnostic or treatment purposes without human expert oversight. Ensuring the trustworthiness and dependability of AI Chatbots is essential for successful implementation in healthcare settings. Future research should focus on evaluating the clinical outcomes of ChatGPT and benchmarking its performance against other AI Chatbots.
SO2-Generating Pads and Packaging Materials for Postharvest Conservation of Table Grapes: A Review
Authors: de Aguiar Aline Cristina , Higuchi Maíra Tiaki , Yamashita Fábio , Roberto Sergio Ruffo
Published: June 2023

Table grapes are one of the leading fruit species cultivated in several countries due to their distinguishing sensory and nutritional properties. However, grapes are a non-climacteric fruit with relatively low physiological activity after harvest, and they are highly perishable due to gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea as well to mass loss, berry softening, color degradation, and dehydration and darkening of the stem. To avoid all these difficulties, several packaging materials are used during cold storage to keep table grapes fresh and healthy for consumers. Proper packaging and cold storage combined can extend the shelf life of high-quality bunches by protecting them from mechanical injuries and decays during transportation and storage. In recent years, several packaging materials have been developed to be used for domestic and export markets, especially those when the conservation of table grapes has to be extended for several weeks or even months. This review addresses the main recent packaging materials for postharvest conservation of table grapes during cold storage, including SO2-generating pads, perforated plastic, and bio-based liners.
Effect of Bat Guano and Biochar on Okra Yield and Some Soil Properties
Authors: Dimande Paulo , Arrobas Margarida , Rodrigues Manuel Ângelo
Published: June 2023

The difficulty in obtaining commercial fertilizers by smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa makes it very important to optimize the use of local organic resources. In VilanKulo, Mozambique, a study was carried out on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) over two growing seasons. The soil was a haplic, loamy-sand textured Lixisol. As organic amendments, bat guano and biochar were used. Bat guano is a phosphorus (P)-rich and low-carbon (C)/nitrogen (N)-ratio material from natural deposits on a cave floor. Biochar is a C-rich material prepared via an artisanal process using forest residues as a feedstock. Bat guano was applied at two rates (5 and 10 t ha−1) just before sowing. It was also applied at the same rates one month before sowing. Biochar was used at two rates (5 and 10 t ha−1) applied at sowing. Biochar and guano were mixed at the rates of 1 and 4 t ha−1 and 2 and 8 t ha−1, respectively, and applied at sowing. The experiment also used a non-fertilized control. Field trials were arranged in a completely randomized design with three replicates. The treatments that received high rates of guano tended to show significantly higher fruit yields (>10 t ha−1 as the two-year average) in comparison with the control, which showed the lowest average okra fruit yield (6.21 t ha−1). In the guano treatments, the apparent recovery by okra of some important nutrients, such as N, was greater than the amount of the nutrient contained in the guano itself. This result, together with many others related to the tissue nutrient concentration, soil properties and residual fertilizing value in guano plots, indicated a strong mineralization of guano during the growing season. This was probably due to its low C/N ratio and favourable environmental conditions for the mineralization process. The result also suggests some kind of manuring effect, i.e., a fertilizing effect of guano beyond what can be explained by the nutrient supply. The use of biochar increased the total organic C in the soil and cation exchange capacity (CEC) compared with the control but did not affect the variables related to plant performance. Overall, the results showed that farmers can benefit from the use of guano in the short term because it releases nutrients, while with the use of biochar, the benefits can arise in the long term by improving the soil properties.
DNA Barcoding and Phylogenetics Relationship of Pangasiid Catfishes in Peninsular Malaysia Revealed the Impacts of Aquaculture on the Native Species Conservation
Authors: Haslawati Baharuddin , Amatul-Samahah Md Ali , Rizman-Idid Mohammed , Muniandy Sekaran
Published: June 2023

Pangasiids are an economically significant group of catfish, and many pangasiids are threatened in the wild from anthropogenic pressures, including increases in fishing pressure, habitat degradation, and improperly managed aquaculture practices. This study demonstrates the usage of DNA barcoding of the Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I (COI) gene as an identification tool in detecting potentially threatening invasive pangasiid species by establishing the diversity and phylogenetic relationship of Pangasiidae catfishes in Peninsular Malaysia. A neighbour-joining (NJ) dendrogram (Kimura-2-parameter model) generated five clades to represent distinct genera. Pangasius was further subdivided into two clades (Clade A: Pangasius bocourti-P. djambal and Clade B: P. nasutus-P. conchophilus). Given the marginal genetic divergence, indigenous and non-native species should be treated cautiously in allopatrically distributed species. The analysis used Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) and revealed barcode gaps between the intraspecific and interspecific distances. The sequences were partitioned into five groupings, corresponding with the species delineation based on the distribution of pairwise differences, which could not be differentiated using the NJ dendrogram. ABGD allows the recognition of one or two additional species using the recursive approach, but other taxonomic methods should be considered for a solid conclusion. DNA barcoding demonstrates the identification of closely related species, thus justifying its application towards the conservation of these fish.
Irish Dancing Injuries and Associated Risk Factors: A Systematic Review
Authors: Póvoa Ana Rita , Costa Cláudia Maria , Simões Sérgio , Azevedo Ana Morais , Oliveira Raul
Published: June 2023

Irish dance is growing in popularity, evolving to a more athletic and demanding dance style. The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review, previously registered with PROSPERO, to identify the prevalence, incidence, and the injury pattern among Irish dancers and analyse the associated risk factors. Six online databases and two dance-specific science publications were searched systematically. Studies were included if the patterns of injuries among Irish dancers were evaluated or the factors associated with injury were analysed, published in English or Portuguese, in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Four reviewers assessed the quality and level of evidence using the Downs and Black criteria and a modified Oxford Centre of Evidence-Based Medicine 2009 model, respectively. Eleven articles were included, eight of Level 3c (cross-sectional) and three of Level 3b (prospective). Mean DB percentage score was 63% ± 7.2%. Prevalence ranged from 72.2% to 92.6%, affecting mostly the foot/ankle complex. Only two articles reported incidence, which ranged from 3.4 to 10.6 injuries/1000 h danced depending on injury definition. Psychological factors, elite level, and insufficient/poor sleep were associated with musculoskeletal injury. Injury prevalence and incidence is high in Irish dancers, with the foot and ankle being more affected. Due to heterogeneity in injury definitions, methods, and populations, along with the need for improvement in studies quality, recommendations were made for future research.
COVID-19 and Policy-Induced Inequalities: Exploring How Social and Economic Exclusions Impact ‘Temporary’ Migrant Men’s Health and Wellbeing in Australia
Authors: Rung Daile Lynn
Published: June 2023

The Australian government swiftly put in place a number of economic relief measures and policies to support people during the COVID-19 crisis. However, the government’s COVID-19 response policies excluded people with ‘temporary’ migrant status living in the country and encouraged people holding temporary visas who lost jobs and could no longer afford to support themselves to ‘go home’. This paper draws upon sub-citizenship theory to explore how Australia’s immigration and COVID-19 response policies are likely to impact the health and wellbeing of ‘temporary’ migrant men and their families. Through focusing on Australia’s policy approach towards ‘temporary’ migrants and the social, health, and human rights implications among men with temporary migrant status during the pandemic, this paper contributes to emerging literature that considers the intersectional implications of immigration and COVID-19 response policies as they pertain to people with precarious migration status. Applying sub-citizenship theory to analyse how Australia’s COVID-19 response policies intersect with ‘temporary’ migration schemes offers a useful way to think about and unearth how structural, and often legislated, exclusions can affect the health and wellbeing of marginalised groups.
Multifunctional Application of Biopolymers and Biomaterials
Authors: Roy Swarup , Siracusa Valentina
Published: June 2023

Biopolymers and biomaterials are two interconnected key topics, which have recently drawn significant attention from researchers across all fields, owing to the emerging potential in multifunctional use [...]
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Relaxation Pathways in Electrolytes for Energy Storage
Authors: Fraenza Carla C. , Greenbaum Steve G. , Suarez Sophia N.
Published: June 2023

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spin relaxation times have been an instrumental tool in deciphering the local environment of ionic species, the various interactions they engender and the effect of these interactions on their dynamics in conducting media. Of particular importance has been their application in studying the wide range of electrolytes for energy storage, on which this review is based. Here we highlight some of the research carried out on electrolytes in recent years using NMR relaxometry techniques. Specifically, we highlight studies on liquid electrolytes, such as ionic liquids and organic solvents; on semi-solid-state electrolytes, such as ionogels and polymer gels; and on solid electrolytes such as glasses, glass ceramics and polymers. Although this review focuses on a small selection of materials, we believe they demonstrate the breadth of application and the invaluable nature of NMR relaxometry.
Comparative Evaluation of Four Commercially Available Immunoassays for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Infliximab and Adalimumab
Authors: Rissel Florian , Cazaubon Yoann , Saffar Syrine , Altwegg Romain , Artasone Mélanie , Lozano Claire , Vincent Thierry , Jentzer Alexandre
Published: June 2023

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of anti-TNF-α is an important tool in clinical practice for inflammatory diseases. In this study, we have evaluated the performance of several assays for drug and antidrug antibodies (ADA) measurement in the serum. 50 sera from patients treated with infliximab (IFX) and 49 sera from patients treated with adalimumab (ADAL) were monitored with four immunoassays. We have compared Promonitor, i-Track10®, and ez-track1 assays to our gold standard Lisa Tracker® ELISA using Cohen’s kappa, Passing-Bablok, and Bland–Altman analysis. The qualitative analysis evaluated by Cohen’s kappa values found for IFX measurements an “almost perfect” concordance for Promonitor, “moderate” for i-Track10® and “substantial” for ez-Track1. For ADAL, kappa values were “moderate” for all tested methods. For anti-IFX, kappa values were “almost perfect” for Promonitor, “fair” for i-Track10®, and “substantial” for ez-Track1. For anti-ADAL, kappa values were “almost perfect” for all three assays. For quantitative analysis of drug measurements, Pearson’s r values were all above 0.9 and Lin’s concordance coefficients of all immunoassays were around 0.80. Performances of the four evaluated immunoassays were acceptable for TDM based on our laboratory experience. Nevertheless, concordance between the four methods for IFX measurement was not perfect and we recommend the use of the same assay for the follow-up of a given patient. The performances of the four immunoassays evaluated were similar and are acceptable for TDM based on our laboratory experience.
The Role of TGF-β Signaling in Saphenous Vein Graft Failure after Peripheral Arterial Disease Bypass Surgery
Authors: He Changhuai , Ye Pin , Zhang Xuecheng , Esmaeili Elham , Li Yiqing , Lü Ping , Cai Chuanqi
Published: June 2023

Saphenous vein bypass grafting is an effective technique used to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD). However, restenosis is the major clinical challenge for the graft vessel among people with PAD postoperation. We hypothesize that there is a common culprit behind arterial occlusion and graft restenosis. To investigate this hypothesis, we found TGF-β, a gene specifically upregulated in PAD arteries, by bioinformatics analysis. TGF-β has a wide range of biological activities and plays an important role in vascular remodeling. We discuss the molecular pathway of TGF-β and elucidate its mechanism in vascular remodeling and intimal hyperplasia, including EMT, extracellular matrix deposition, and fibrosis, which are the important pathways contributing to stenosis. Additionally, we present a case report of a patient with graft restenosis linked to the TGF-β pathway. Finally, we discuss the potential applications of targeting the TGF-β pathway in the clinic to improve the long-term patency of vein grafts.
Albumin Is a Component of the Esterase Status of Human Blood Plasma
Authors: Belinskaia Daria A. , Voronina Polina A. , Popova Polina I. , Voitenko Natalia G. , Shmurak Vladimir I. , Vovk Mikhail A. , Baranova Tatiana I. , Batalova Anastasia A. , Korf Ekaterina A. , Avdonin Pavel V. , Jenkins Richard O. , Goncharov Nikolay V.
Published: June 2023

The esterase status of blood plasma can claim to be one of the universal markers of various diseases; therefore, it deserves attention when searching for markers of the severity of COVID-19 and other infectious and non-infectious pathologies. When analyzing the esterase status of blood plasma, the esterase activity of serum albumin, which is the major protein in the blood of mammals, should not be ignored. The purpose of this study is to expand understanding of the esterase status of blood plasma and to evaluate the relationship of the esterase status, which includes information on the amount and enzymatic activity of human serum albumin (HSA), with other biochemical parameters of human blood, using the example of surviving and deceased patients with confirmed COVID-19. In experiments in vitro and in silico, the activity of human plasma and pure HSA towards various substrates was studied, and the effect of various inhibitors on this activity was tested. Then, a comparative analysis of the esterase status and a number of basic biochemical parameters of the blood plasma of healthy subjects and patients with confirmed COVID-19 was performed. Statistically significant differences have been found in esterase status and biochemical indices (including albumin levels) between healthy subjects and patients with COVID-19, as well as between surviving and deceased patients. Additional evidence has been obtained for the importance of albumin as a diagnostic marker. Of particular interest is a new index, [Urea] × [MDA] × 1000/(BChEb × [ALB]), which in the group of deceased patients was 10 times higher than in the group of survivors and 26 times higher than the value in the group of apparently healthy elderly subjects.
Quantitative Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Detection of Ustilaginoidea virens Causing Rice False Smut
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Xinyue , Zhang Shuya , Ma Tianling , Mao Chengxin , Zhang Chuanqing
Published: June 2023

Rice false smut caused by Ustilaginoidea virens is one of the most devastating diseases in rice worldwide, which results in serious reductions in rice quality and yield. As an airborne fungal disease, early diagnosis of rice false smut and monitoring its epidemics and distribution of its pathogens is particularly important to manage the infection. In this study, a quantitative loop-mediated isothermal amplification (q-LAMP) method for U. virens detection and quantification was developed. This method has higher sensitivity and efficiency compared to the quantitative real-time PCR (q-PCR) method. The species-specific primer that the UV-2 set used was designed based on the unique sequence of the U. virens ustiloxins biosynthetic gene (NCBI accession number: BR001221.1). The q-LAMP assay was able to detect a concentration of 6.4 spores/mL at an optimal reaction temperature of 63.4 °C within 60 min. Moreover, the q-LAMP assay could even achieve accurate quantitative detection when there were only nine spores on the tape. A linearized equation for the standard curve, y = −0.2866x + 13.829 (x is the amplification time, the spore number = 100.65y), was established for the detection and quantification of U. virens. In field detection applications, this q-LAMP method is more accurate and sensitive than traditional observation methods. Collectively, this study has established a powerful and simple monitoring tool for U. virens, which provides valuable technical support for the forecast and management of rice false smut, and a theoretical basis for precise fungicide application.
Effect of Hesperidin on Barrier Function and Reactive Oxygen Species Production in an Oral Epithelial Cell Model, and on Secretion of Macrophage-Derived Inflammatory Mediators during Porphyromonas gingivalis Infection
Authors: Maquera-Huacho Patricia Milagros , Spolidorio Denise Palomari , Manthey John , Grenier Daniel
Published: June 2023

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a periodontopathogenic bacterium that can adhere to and colonize periodontal tissues, leading to an inflammatory process, and, consequently, tissue destruction. New therapies using flavonoids, such as hesperidin, are being studied, and their promising properties have been highlighted. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of hesperidin on the epithelial barrier function, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and on the inflammatory response caused by P. gingivalis in in vitro models. The integrity of the epithelial tight junctions challenged by P. gingivalis was determined by monitoring the transepithelial electrical resistance (TER). P. gingivalis adherence to a gingival keratinocyte monolayer and a basement membrane model were evaluated by a fluorescence assay. A fluorometric assay was used to determine the ROS production in gingival keratinocytes. The level of pro-inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) secretion was evaluated by ELISA; to assess NF-κB activation, the U937-3xjB-LUC monocyte cell line transfected with a luciferase reporter gene was used. Hesperidin protected against gingival epithelial barrier dysfunction caused by P. gingivalis and reduced the adherence of P. gingivalis to the basement membrane model. Hesperidin dose-dependently inhibited P. gingivalis-mediated ROS production by oral epithelial cells as well as the secretion of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-8, MMP-2, and MMP-9 by macrophages challenged with P. gingivalis. Additionally, it was able to attenuate NF-κB activation in macrophages stimulated with P. gingivalis. These findings suggest that hesperidin has a protective effect on the epithelial barrier function, in addition to reducing ROS production and attenuating the inflammatory response associated with periodontal disease.
Weak, Broken, but Working—Intramolecular Hydrogen Bond in 2,2′-bipyridine
Authors: Shenderovich Ilya G.
Published: June 2023

From an academic and practical point of view, it is desirable to be able to assess the possibility of the proton exchange of a given molecular system just by knowing the positions of the proton acceptor and the proton donor. This study addresses the difference between intramolecular hydrogen bonds in 2,2′-bipyridinium and 1,10-phenanthrolinium. Solid-state 15N NMR and model calculations show that these hydrogen bonds are weak; their energies are 25 kJ/mol and 15 kJ/mol, respectively. Neither these hydrogen bonds nor N-H stretches can be responsible for the fast reversible proton transfer observed for 2,2′-bipyridinium in a polar solvent down to 115 K. This process must have been caused by an external force, which was a fluctuating electric field present in the solution. However, these hydrogen bonds are the grain that tips the scales precisely because they are an integral part of a large system of interactions, including both intramolecular interactions and environmental influence.
Role of the Hox Genes, Sex combs reduced, Fushi tarazu and Antennapedia, in Leg Development of the Spider Mite Tetranychus urticae
Authors: Luo Xiang , Xu Yu-Qi , Jin Dao-Chao , Guo Jian-Jun , Yi Tian-Ci
Published: June 2023

Mites, the second largest arthropod group, exhibit rich phenotypic diversity in the development of appendages (legs). For example, the fourth pair of legs (L4) does not form until the second postembryonic developmental stage, namely the protonymph stage. These leg developmental diversities drive body plan diversity in mites. However, little is known about the mechanisms of leg development in mites. Hox genes, homeotic genes, can regulate the development of appendages in arthropods. Three Hox genes, Sex combs reduced (Scr), Fushi tarazu (Ftz) and Antennapedia (Antp), have previously been shown to be expressed in the leg segments of mites. Here, the quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR shows that three Hox genes are significantly increased in the first molt stage. RNA interference results in a set of abnormalities, including L3 curl and L4 loss. These results suggest that these Hox genes are required for normal leg development. Furthermore, the loss of single Hox genes results in downregulating the expression of the appendage marker Distal-less (Dll), suggesting that the three Hox genes can work together with Dll to maintain leg development in Tetranychus urticae. This study will be essential to understanding the diversity of leg development in mites and changes in Hox gene function.
Editorial for the IJMS Special Issue on “Molecular Genetics of Autism and Intellectual Disability”
Authors: Kim Hyung-Goo
Published: June 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental illness that affects children at an early age with a global prevalence of 1%, is diagnosed based on clinical features such as social impairment, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests [...]
Molecular Pathways of Altered Brain Development in Fetuses Exposed to Hypoxia
Authors: Orzeł Anna , Unrug-Bielawska Katarzyna , Filipecka-Tyczka Dagmara , Berbeka Krzysztof , Zeber-Lubecka Natalia , Zielińska Małgorzata , Kajdy Anna
Published: June 2023

Perinatal hypoxia is a major cause of neurodevelopmental impairment and subsequent motor and cognitive dysfunctions; it is associated with fetal growth restriction and uteroplacental dysfunction during pregnancy. This review aims to present the current knowledge on brain development resulting from perinatal asphyxia, including the causes, symptoms, and means of predicting the degree of brain damage. Furthermore, this review discusses the specificity of brain development in the growth-restricted fetus and how it is replicated and studied in animal models. Finally, this review aims at identifying the least understood and missing molecular pathways of abnormal brain development, especially with respect to potential treatment intervention.
Arrhythmias after COVID-19 Vaccination: Have We Left All Stones Unturned?
Authors: Cocco Nino , Leibundgut Gregor , Pelliccia Francesco , Cammalleri Valeria , Nusca Annunziata , Mangiacapra Fabio , Cocco Giulio , Fanale Valerio , Ussia Gian Paolo , Grigioni Francesco
Published: June 2023

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination offered the opportunity to emerge from the pandemic and, thereby, worldwide health, social, and economic disasters. However, in addition to efficacy, safety is an important issue for any vaccine. The mRNA-based vaccine platform is considered to be safe, but side effects are being reported more frequently as more and more people around the world become treated. Myopericarditis is the major, but not the only cardiovascular complication of this vaccine; hence it is important not to underestimate other side effects. We report a case series of patients affected by cardiac arrhythmias post-mRNA vaccine from our clinical practice and the literature. Reviewing the official vigilance database, we found that heart rhythm disorders after COVID vaccination are not uncommon and deserve more clinical and scientific attention. Since the COVID vaccine is the only vaccination related to this side effect, questions arose about whether these vaccines could affect heart conduction. Although the risk–benefit ratio is clearly in favor of vaccination, heart rhythm disorders are not a negligible issue, and there are red flags in the literature about the risk of post-vaccination malignant arrhythmias in some predisposed patients. In light of these findings, we reviewed the potential molecular pathways for the COVID vaccine to impact cardiac electrophysiology and cause heart rhythm disorders.
Mild Cognitive Impairment Is Associated with Enhanced Activation of Th17 Lymphocytes in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Fiorillo Alessandra , Gallego Juan-José , Casanova-Ferrer Franc , Giménez-Garzó Carla , Urios Amparo , Ballester Maria-Pilar , Durbán Lucia , Rios Maria-Pilar , Megías Javier , San Miguel Teresa , Kosenko Elena , Escudero-García Desamparados , Benlloch Salvador , Felipo Vicente , Montoliu Carmina
Published: June 2023

Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may show mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The mechanisms involved remain unclear. The plasma concentrations of several cytokines and chemokines were measured in 71 NAFLD patients (20 with and 51 without MCI) and 61 controls. Characterization and activation of leukocyte populations and CD4+ sub-populations were carried out and analyzed by flow cytometry. We analyzed the cytokines released from CD4+ cell cultures and the mRNA expression of transcription factors and receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The appearance of MCI in NAFLD patients was associated with increased activation of CD4+ T lymphocytes, mainly of the Th17 subtype, increased plasma levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17A, IL-23, IL-21, IL-22, IL-6, INF-γ, and IL-13, and higher expression of the CCR2 receptor. Constitutive expression of IL-17 was found in cultures of CD4+ cells from MCI patients, reflecting Th17 activation. High IL-13 plasma levels were predictive of MCI and could reflect a compensatory anti-inflammatory response to the increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This study identified some specific alterations of the immune system associated with the appearance of neurological alterations in MCI patients with NAFLD that could be the basis to improve and restore cognitive functions and quality of life in these patients.
Molecular Mechanisms of Craniofacial and Dental Abnormalities in Osteopetrosis
Authors: Ma Yu , Xu Yali , Zhang Yanli , Duan Xiaohong
Published: June 2023

Osteopetrosis is a group of genetic bone disorders characterized by increased bone density and defective bone resorption. Osteopetrosis presents a series of clinical manifestations, including craniofacial deformities and dental problems. However, few previous reports have focused on the features of craniofacial and dental problems in osteopetrosis. In this review, we go through the clinical features, types, and related pathogenic genes of osteopetrosis. Then we summarize and describe the characteristics of craniofacial and dental abnormalities in osteopetrosis that have been published in PubMed from 1965 to the present. We found that all 13 types of osteopetrosis have craniomaxillofacial and dental phenotypes. The main pathogenic genes, such as chloride channel 7 gene (CLCN7), T cell immune regulator 1 (TCIRG1), osteopetrosis-associated transmembrane protein 1 (OSTM1), pleckstrin homology domain-containing protein family member 1 (PLEKHM1), and carbonic anhydrase II (CA2), and their molecular mechanisms involved in craniofacial and dental phenotypes, are discussed. We conclude that the telltale craniofacial and dental abnormalities are important for dentists and other clinicians in the diagnosis of osteopetrosis and other genetic bone diseases.
Mitochondria Deregulations in Cancer Offer Several Potential Targets of Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Musicco Clara , Signorile Anna , Pesce Vito , Loguercio Polosa Paola , Cormio Antonella
Published: June 2023

Mitochondria play a key role in cancer and their involvement is not limited to the production of ATP only. Mitochondria also produce reactive oxygen species and building blocks to sustain rapid cell proliferation; thus, the deregulation of mitochondrial function is associated with cancer disease development and progression. In cancer cells, a metabolic reprogramming takes place through a different modulation of the mitochondrial metabolic pathways, including oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid oxidation, the Krebs cycle, glutamine and heme metabolism. Alterations of mitochondrial homeostasis, in particular, of mitochondrial biogenesis, mitophagy, dynamics, redox balance, and protein homeostasis, were also observed in cancer cells. The use of drugs acting on mitochondrial destabilization may represent a promising therapeutic approach in tumors in which mitochondrial respiration is the predominant energy source. In this review, we summarize the main mitochondrial features and metabolic pathways altered in cancer cells, moreover, we present the best known drugs that, by acting on mitochondrial homeostasis and metabolic pathways, may induce mitochondrial alterations and cancer cell death. In addition, new strategies that induce mitochondrial damage, such as photodynamic, photothermal and chemodynamic therapies, and the development of nanoformulations that specifically target drugs in mitochondria are also described. Thus, mitochondria-targeted drugs may open new frontiers to a tailored and personalized cancer therapy.
Carbon Quantum Dots: The Role of Surface Functional Groups and Proposed Mechanisms for Metal Ion Sensing
Authors: Shabbir Hasan , Csapó Edit , Wojnicki Marek
Published: June 2023

Carbon dots (CDs) are zero-dimensional nanomaterials composed of carbon and surface groups attached to their surface. CDs have a size smaller than 10 nm and have potential applications in different fields such as metal ion detection, photodegradation of pollutants, and bio-imaging, in this review, the capabilities of CDs in metal ion detection will be described. Quantum confinement is generally viewed as the key factor contributing to the uniqueness of CDs characteristics due to their small size and the lack of attention on the surface functional groups and their roles is given, however, in this review paper, the focus will be on the functional group and the composition of CDs. The surface functional groups depend on two parameters: (i) the oxidation of precursors and (ii) their composition. The mechanism of metal ion detection is still being studied and is not fully understood. This review article emphasizes the current development and progress of CDs, focusing on metal ion detection based on a new perspective.
Mandibular Flexure and Its Significance: An In Vivo Cone Beam-Computed Tomography Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Londono Jimmy , Schoenbaum Todd , Varilla Ortiz Alma , Franco-Romero Guillermo , Villalobos Vanessa , Carosi Paolo , Mijiritsky Eitan , Pozzi Alessandro
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to assess intra-arch mandibular dimensional changes that may occur during mouth opening using cone beam-computed tomography (CBCT). Fifteen patients in need of any type of treatment whose execution considered a pre- and post-CBCT assessment consented and were enrolled. CBCTs were taken with the following settings: 90 kV, 8 mA, field of view (FOV) 140 by 100 mm (height and diameter), Voxel size 0.25 mm (high resolution). The pre-CBCT was executed in the maximum mandibular opening (MO), while the post-CBCT was in the maximum intercuspation (MI). A thermoplastic stent with radiopaque fiducial markers (steel ball bearings) was fabricated for each patient. Measurements were made using radiographic markers between contralateral canines and contralateral first molars and between ipsilateral canines and first molars on both sides. Paired t-tests were performed to evaluate the difference between open and closed positions on these four measurements. In the MO position were registered a significative tightening of the mandible at the canine (−0.49 mm, SD 0.54 mm; p < 0.001) and molar points (−0.81 mm, SD 0.63 mm; p < 0.001) and a significative shortening of the mandible on the right (−0.84 mm, SD 0.80 mm; p < 0.001) and left sides (−0.87 mm, SD 0.49 mm; p < 0.001). Within the study limitations, mandibular flexure determined a significant shortening and tightening between maximum intercuspation to maximum opening positions. Mandibular dimensional changes should be considered in light of other patient factors in the treatment planning of implant positioning and long-span complete arch implant-supported fixed prostheses in order to avoid technical complications.