bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Fracturing Fluid Based on Functionally Modified Nano-Silica-Enhanced Hydroxypropyl Guar Gel
Authors: Huang Feifei , Bai Yun , Gu Xiaoyu , Kang Shaofei , Yang Yandong , Wang Kai
Published: May 2024

Considering the damage caused by conventional fracturing fluid in low-permeability reservoirs, a novel fracturing fluid (FNG) combining hydroxypropyl guar (HPG) and functionally modified nano-silica (FMNS) was prepared. The properties of heat/shear resistance, rheological property, proppant transportation, and formation damage were evaluated with systematic experiments. The results showed that the viscosities of FNG before and after the heat/resistance were 1323 mPa·s and 463 mPa·s, respectively, while that of conventional HPG gel was 350 mPa·s. FNG is a pseudoplastic strong gel with a yield stress of 12.9 Pa, a flow behavior index of 0.54, an elastic modulus of 16.2 Pa, and a viscous modulus of 6.2 Pa. As the proportions of proppant mass in further sections transported with FNG were higher than those transported with HPG gel, FNG could transport the proppant better than HPG gel at high temperatures. Because of the amphiphilic characteristics of FMNS, the surface/interface properties were improved by the FNG filtrate, resulting in a lower oil permeability loss rate of 10 percentage points in the matrix than with the filtrated HPG gel. Due to the considerable residual gel in broken HPG gel, the retained conductivity damaged with broken FNG was 9.5 percentage points higher than that damaged with broken HPG gel. FNG shows good potential for reducing formation damage during fracturing in low-permeability reservoirs in China.
Development of an Emulgel for the Effective Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis: Biocompatibility and Clinical Investigation
Authors: Gómez-Farto Almudena , Jiménez-Escobar Ana Leticia , Pérez-González Noelia , Castán Herminia , Clares Beatriz , Arias-Santiago Salvador , Montero-Vílchez Trinidad
Published: May 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common dermatological disease affecting both children and adults. No drug-free emulgel has been developed and studied in vitro and in vivo for the treatment of AD. The aim of this study was to develop and assess the efficacy of a topical emulgel containing hyaluronic acid, glycerol, Calendula officinalis, Aloe vera, polyphenols and EGF for the concomitant treatment in patients with AD aged over 14. Objective skin barrier function parameters were included, such as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin temperature, pH, stratum corneum hydration, skin elasticity and erythema. The subjective opinion of the patients was determined including acceptability, absorption, comfort of use and tolerability, as well as the degree of improvement in patients’ quality of life. We observed an improvement in the subjective parameters studied and statistically significant differences in the objective parameters. Specifically, we found an improvement in TEWL (p = 0.006), erythema (p = 0.008) and hydration (p < 0.001), parameters indicating an improvement in the epidermal barrier. One hundred per cent of patients were satisfied with the product. Therefore, these results suggest that the product may contribute to the treatment of AD.
Hydrogel-Based Interfacial Solar-Driven Evaporation: Essentials and Trails
Authors: Hu Xiaoyun , Yang Jianfang , Tu Yufei , Su Zhen , Guan Qingqing , Ma Zhiwei
Published: May 2024

Hydrogel-based interfacial solar-driven evaporation (ISDE) gives full play to the highly adjustable physical and chemical properties of hydrogel, which endows ISDE systems with excellent evaporation performance, anti-pollution properties, and mechanical behavior, making it more promising for applications in seawater desalination and wastewater treatment. This review systematically introduces the latest advances in hydrogel-based ISDE systems from three aspects: the required properties, the preparation methods, and the role played in application scenarios of hydrogels used in ISDE. Additionally, we also discuss the remaining challenges and potential opportunities in hydrogel-based ISDE systems. By summarizing the latest research progress, we hope that researchers in related fields have some insight into the unique advantages of hydrogels in the ISDE field and contribute our efforts so that ISDE technology reaches the finishing line of practical application on the hydrogel track.
Enhancing Gene Co-Expression Network Inference for the Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Li Qi , Button-Simons Katrina A. , Sievert Mackenzie A. C. , Chahoud Elias , Foster Gabriel F. , Meis Kaitlynn , Ferdig Michael T. , Milenković Tijana
Published: May 2024

Background: Malaria results in more than 550,000 deaths each year due to drug resistance in the most lethal Plasmodium (P.) species P. falciparum. A full P. falciparum genome was published in 2002, yet 44.6% of its genes have unknown functions. Improving the functional annotation of genes is important for identifying drug targets and understanding the evolution of drug resistance. Results: Genes function by interacting with one another. So, analyzing gene co-expression networks can enhance functional annotations and prioritize genes for wet lab validation. Earlier efforts to build gene co-expression networks in P. falciparum have been limited to a single network inference method or gaining biological understanding for only a single gene and its interacting partners. Here, we explore multiple inference methods and aim to systematically predict functional annotations for all P. falciparum genes. We evaluate each inferred network based on how well it predicts existing gene–Gene Ontology (GO) term annotations using network clustering and leave-one-out crossvalidation. We assess overlaps of the different networks’ edges (gene co-expression relationships), as well as predicted functional knowledge. The networks’ edges are overall complementary: 47–85% of all edges are unique to each network. In terms of the accuracy of predicting gene functional annotations, all networks yielded relatively high precision (as high as 87% for the network inferred using mutual information), but the highest recall reached was below 15%. All networks having low recall means that none of them capture a large amount of all existing gene–GO term annotations. In fact, their annotation predictions are highly complementary, with the largest pairwise overlap of only 27%. We provide ranked lists of inferred gene–gene interactions and predicted gene–GO term annotations for future use and wet lab validation by the malaria community. Conclusions: The different networks seem to capture different aspects of the P. falciparum biology in terms of both inferred interactions and predicted gene functional annotations. Thus, relying on a single network inference method should be avoided when possible. Supplementary data: Attached.
Biodiversity of Demersal Fish Communities in the Cosmonaut Sea Revealed by DNA Barcoding Analyses
Authors: Li Hai , Miao Xing , Wang Rui , Liao Yuzhuo , Wen Yilin , Zhang Ran , Lin Longshan
Published: May 2024

The Cosmonaut Sea is one of the least accessed regions in the Southern Ocean, and our knowledge about the fish biodiversity in the region is sparse. In this study, we provided a description of demersal fish diversity in the Cosmonaut Sea by analysing cytochrome oxidase I (COI) barcodes of 98 fish samples that were hauled by trawling during the 37th and 38th Chinese National Antarctic Research Expedition (CHINARE) cruises. Twenty-four species representing 19 genera and 11 families, namely, Artedidraconidae, Bathydraconidae, Bathylagidae, Channichthyidae, Liparidae, Macrouridae, Muraenolepididae, Myctophidae, Nototheniidae, Paralepididae and Zoarcidae, were discriminated and identified, which were largely identical to local fish occurrence records and the general pattern of demersal fish communities at high Antarctic shelf areas. The validity of a barcoding gap failed to be detected and confirmed across all species due to the indicative signals of two potential cryptic species. Nevertheless, DNA barcoding still demonstrated to be a very efficient and sound method for the discrimination and classification of Antarctic fishes. In the future, various sampling strategies that cover all geographic sections and depth strata of the Cosmonaut Sea are encouraged to enhance our understanding of local fish communities, within which DNA barcoding can play an important role in either molecular taxonomy or the establishment of a dedicated local reference database for eDNA metabarcoding analyses.
Overexpression of GhGSTF9 Enhances Salt Stress Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Huimin , Liu Yihui , Wu Jie , Chang Kexin , Zhang Guangqiang , Zhao Hang , Qiu Nianwei , Bao Ying
Published: May 2024

Soil salinization is a major abiotic stress factor that negatively impacts plant growth, development, and crop yield, severely limiting agricultural production and economic development. Cotton, a key cash crop, is commonly cultivated as a pioneer crop in regions with saline-alkali soil due to its relatively strong tolerance to salt. This characteristic renders it a valuable subject for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying plant salt tolerance and for identifying genes that confer salt tolerance. In this study, focus was placed on examining a salt-tolerant variety, E991, and a salt-sensitive variety, ZM24. A combined analysis of transcriptomic data from these cotton varieties led to the identification of potential salt stress-responsive genes within the glutathione S-transferase (GST) family. These versatile enzyme proteins, prevalent in animals, plants, and microorganisms, were demonstrated to be involved in various abiotic stress responses. Our findings indicate that suppressing GhGSTF9 in cotton led to a notably salt-sensitive phenotype, whereas heterologous overexpression in Arabidopsis plants decreases the accumulation of reactive oxygen species under salt stress, thereby enhancing salt stress tolerance. This suggests that GhGSTF9 serves as a positive regulator in cotton’s response to salt stress. These results offer new target genes for developing salt-tolerant cotton varieties.
The Effect of Clay Infill on Strength of Jointed Sandstone: Laboratory and Analysis
Authors: Cui Chen , Gratchev Ivan
Published: May 2024

The strength of jointed rock is a fundamental factor in the slope stability of rock mass. This research investigates the effect of infill thickness on the strength of jointed rock specimens. Unlike previous studies involving artificial rock-like materials and saw-tooth surfaces, this work has been conducted on two natural types of sandstone with various rock surfaces. Natural low-plasticity clay of different thicknesses (1 mm to 3 mm) was used as the infill material. A series of shear box tests with a range of initial normal stresses from 0.5 MPa to 1.5 MPa were performed to obtain high-quality data regarding the shear strength of natural rock and to provide insights into the effect of infill and rock surface roughness on shear strength. The obtained results were also used to improve the current methods of rock strength predictions, which were initially designed to estimate the strength of artificial rock-like material. Based on the obtained laboratory data and the strength estimation using different methods, a newly proposed procedure was proved to provide more accurate estimations of the shear strength of jointed rock.
Development of the Self-Assessment Self-Disclosure Questionnaire to Examine the Association between Self-Disclosure and Frailty among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Japan
Authors: Yokoyama Kazuki , Ihira Hikaru , Matsuzaki-Kihara Yuriko , Mizumoto Atsushi , Tashiro Hideyuki , Shimada Kiyotaka , Yama Kosuke , Miyajima Ryo , Sasaki Takeshi , Kozuka Naoki , Ikeda Nozomu
Published: May 2024

Self-disclosure is the attitude of communicating one’s experiences and condition to others and is an indicator of mental health and an open personality. Frailty, characterized by reduced physical and psychological resistance, predicts the incidence of dependency and mortality. Although low self-disclosure may be associated with frailty, there is no scale to measure older adults’ self-disclosure. This cross-sectional study assessed the validity of a self-assessment self-disclosure questionnaire and examined the association between the content of self-disclosures to friends and acquaintances and frailty among community-dwelling older adults. A total of 237 adults aged ≥65 in Japan were surveyed using a mailed self-administered questionnaire in 2021. The self-disclosure scale consisted of 10 items and showed adequate validity. Participants were classified into a robust group (n = 117, women 57.3%) and a frailty group (n = 120, women 73.3%) using the Kihon Checklist. After adjusting for covariates, multivariate-adjusted logistic regression models revealed frailty was associated with lower self-disclosure of recent positive events, motivation and strengths (indicating strong points) in life, relationships with family and relatives, experiences of work and social activities, and financial status. The proposed questionnaire must still be further tested in other populations, but our initial results may contribute to preventing frailty and improving mental health among community-dwelling older adults.
A Review of Non-IgE Immune-Mediated Allergic Disorders of the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Pundit Valishti Artee , Makkoukdji Nadia , Banegas Carballo Krisia Maria , Stone Farrah , Satnarine Travis , Kuhn Jessica , Kleiner Gary I. , Gans Melissa D.
Published: May 2024

Non-IgE immune-mediated gastrointestinal disorders constitute a heterogeneous group of enigmatic conditions that are on the rise. This category encompasses entities like food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES), food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis (FPIAP), and food protein-induced enteropathy (FPE). These are immune-mediated reactions to certain foods without the involvement of allergen-specific IgE in their pathogenesis. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is also included in this group, acknowledged for its mixed IgE and non-IgE-mediated characteristics. The diagnostic landscape is fraught with challenges, given the poorly understood nature of these disorders and their propensity to manifest with varying and overlapping clinical presentations, typically emerging in infancy with common potential triggers such as cow’s milk and soy. Presently, confirmatory testing for most of these conditions is limited and invasive, emphasizing the pivotal role of a thorough history and physical examination in reaching a diagnosis. Notably, there are limited guidelines for diagnosis and management for most of these disorders. This article elucidates the key distinctions among these disorders, provides an overview of existing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and addresses existing knowledge and research gaps. The considerable impact on the quality of life of non-IgE immune-mediated allergic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, which can result in debilitating complications such as nutritional deficiencies, mental health disorders, and eating disorders, underscores the urgency for comprehensive exploration and management strategies.
Contraceptive Counseling: Construction and Validation of Instrument—“5C Contraceptive Counseling”
Authors: Palma Sara , Ayres-de-Campos Diogo , Antunes Mónica , São-João Ricardo , Presado Maria Helena
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Contraceptive illiteracy leads to non-adherence, discontinuation, and dissatisfaction with the method. Person-centered contraceptive counseling is based on quality care on a communicative basis that promotes shared decision-making, leading to a choice adapted to the woman’s needs, lifestyle, and health condition. We intend to build and validate an instrument that serves as a guide for quality contraceptive counseling, facilitating decision-making about contraceptive methods. Methods: We used the Delphi method in a total of two rounds. The content was validated through a panel of eighteen experts with experience in teaching, research in contraceptive counseling, and obstetric nursing. To assess the consensus and stability of the responses, two questionnaires were administered and the Content Validity Index and Content Validity Ratio were calculated. Results: The initial version of the guide, consisting of six indicators and thirty-five items, was submitted to the panel of experts to obtain consensus and stability from respondents (first round). The results showed a response rate of 66.0%; thirty-four indicators reached consensus and one did not reach consensus. Suggestions for modifying the indicator were received by the experts and incorporated in the next round. In the second round, the response rate increased to 78.0%. Two indicators were resubmitted, of which one was accepted. This resulted in the final version of the instrument, with six points and thirty-five items. Discussion: The guide proved to be a valid tool for nurse–midwives to provide quality contraceptive advice to women, allowing them to make autonomous and informed choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health.
Healthcare Professionals’ Beliefs and Views towards Exercise during Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study in Greece
Authors: Daglas Vasileios , Kostopoulos Nikolaos , Mrvoljak-Theodoropoulou Irina , Lykeridou Aikaterini , Antoniou Evangelia
Published: May 2024

Background: Healthcare professionals appear to play a key role in shaping pregnant women’s views and attitudes towards lifestyle issues, such as exercise. The aim of this study is to investigate the views and beliefs of Greek midwives and obstetricians regarding exercise during pregnancy. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted during the period of January 2022–March 2023. For this study, 237 Greek midwives and obstetricians employed in healthcare settings in Attica, Greece completed an anonymous and self-report questionnaire. Four different/independent models of multivariate analyses of variance were conducted. Results: The vast majority of these healthcare professionals (88.6%) believed that exercise during pregnancy is generally beneficial. According to the multivariate analyses, healthcare professionals with postgraduate/doctoral studies were more likely to believe that (a) exercise is generally beneficial (p = 0.03), (b) pregnant women should be informed about it (p = 0.028), (c) informing pregnant women is necessary/useful (p = 0.023), and (d) pregnant women showed interest in it (p = 0.034). Also, freelance midwives were more likely to believe that pregnant women should be informed about exercise (p = 0.006), and that they showed interest in it (p = 0.034). In addition, (a) freelance midwives (p = 0.050), and those who had experience in antenatal counselling (p = 0.037), as well as (b) obstetricians who were largely experienced in monitoring normal pregnancies (p = 0.001), were less likely to associate exercise during pregnancy with the occurrence of placental abruption. Conclusion: Alongside healthcare professionals’ educational level, their professional setting and professional experience emerge as key factors and need to be considered when designing innovative interventions to support exercise during pregnancy.
Family Planning and Preconception Care Service Management: The Key Role of Bulgarian GPs
Authors: Hristova-Atanasova Eleonora , Iskrov Georgi , Stefanov Rumen
Published: May 2024

Assisting women in attaining their reproductive goals is crucial for improving the well-being of families and children. As the first point of contact for healthcare, general practitioners (GPs) are ideal for family planning (FP) and preconception care (PCC). However, primary care interventions’ efficacy is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine GPs’ knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives on FP and PCC service management. Most GPs were aware of FP and PCC services and held a firm conviction that they should be primarily accountable together with obstetrician–gynaecologists. However, it is worth noting that less than 50% of respondents reported receiving thorough and comprehensive knowledge of their respective specialities. Those with general medicine qualifications demonstrated a high level of commitment to providing such services. The women’s GPs and those with training in general medicine prescribed birth control pills and emergency contraception three times more frequently than the other doctors who suggested condoms or traditional methods or referred patients to another specialist (p < 0.05). In conclusion, PCC is of the utmost importance, and its effective implementation demands the collaboration of policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals. GPs are essential in managing FP and PCC. They must incorporate more in-depth PCC into their clinical practice.
Prognostic Value and Limits of Heart Rate and QT—Corrected in A Large Population
Authors: Giovanardi Paolo , Vernia Cecilia , Roversi Sara , Tincani Enrico , Spadafora Giuseppe , Silipo Federico , Giberti Claudio
Published: May 2024

Background: The study aimed to compare the prognostic importance of the heart rate (HR) and QT—corrected (QTc) according to Fridericia, Framingham, and Bazett with respect to all-cause mortality in a large non-selected population. Methods: The analysis of digital electrocardiograms archived from 2008 to 2022 in the metropolitan area of Modena, Italy, was carried out. The population under study was divided into three groups based on age, and survival analysis was performed. Results: 131,627 patients were enrolled and, during the follow-up (mean 1641.4 days), all-cause mortality was 8.9%. Both HR and QTc were associated with mortality. All-cause mortality significantly increased with HR values greater than 81 BPM and QTc values greater than 440 msec in young subjects and 455 msec in old subjects (values of the 75th percentiles/optimal operating point). A Cox analysis confirmed the better prognostic value of Bazett’s QTc and HR in the whole population and in the three age-groups. Conclusion: Bazett’s method performed better than the others, but, unexpectedly, the HR had the same or an even better correlation with all-cause mortality. Since the HR is simple and readily available, its evaluation should be improved. However, QTC and HR values are difficult to define, causing many confounding factors, and further population studies are required.
An Assessment of the Impact of the Protection Zone Regime for Cultural Heritage Sites on the Value of Land for Individual Housing Construction in the Context of a Low-Activity Market
Authors: Dyachkova Irina , Bykowa Elena , Dudina Vlada , Banikevich Tatyana
Published: May 2024

The preservation of cultural heritage plays a key role in the development of society. To preserve cultural heritage, protection zones are established, which represent an encumbrance on land plots and, therefore, should be taken into account in the valuation process. Currently, there is a problem that mass (cadastral) and individual valuation methods do not necessarily include cultural heritage objects and their zones in cost coefficients. The absence of a mechanism to address their individual characteristics in the real estate valuation system has a significant impact on the value of real estate and leads to unjustifiably inflated market value and, as a consequence, to disputing the results of cadastral valuation. This article is devoted to determining the impact of protection zones of cultural heritage objects on the value of land intended for individual housing construction, using the example of the city of Orenburg. This article considers various methods of identifying patterns of the influence of zones with special conditions of use of the territory on the market value of land and substantiates the use of the method of comparative sales in the conditions of a low-active land market in Orenburg, a statistical analysis of market information, on the basis of which the type of activity of the real estate market in Orenburg was determined. The patterns of the calculation of corrections for the remoteness of the studied land plots from the objects of the transport and social infrastructure of Orenburg were revealed in this work as well. Through the method of paired sales within the framework of an individual assessment of the land plot intended for individual housing construction, the diminishing impact of the zones of protection of cultural heritage objects on the market value of land plots was revealed. This allows for conclusions to be drawn as to whether objects of cultural heritage have an impact on the value of real estate, and as a result, there is a need to modify the applied methods of mass and individual real estate valuation within the boundaries of historical settlements.
Study on Spectral Response of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) at Different Leaf Ages and Evaluation of Photosynthetic Energy Efficiency of Narrow-Band LED Spotlights
Authors: Gao Dan , Yuan Qing , Pei Weizhong , Zhang Xue , Li Fusheng , Han Qiuyi , Zhang Shanduan
Published: May 2024

Leaf photosynthesis largely determines the daughter corm yields in vegetative growth for saffron (Crocus sativus L.). Most of the previous researches focus on the spectral response in various species, but research on saffron leaves at different leaf ages is lacking. In this study, the action spectrum based on photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) and irradiance were distinguished and interpreted. The optical properties and photosynthetic performances of leaves were, respectively, investigated at two leaf ages, dependent on customized narrow-band LED spotlights from 380 nm to 780 nm with an interval of 20 nm and a band width of 10 nm. The younger leaves were characterized by higher reflectance and transmittance values at 500−600 nm, resulting in lower absorptance compared to the older leaves. The spectral response curves including the action spectrum and quantum yield for younger leaves were higher than the older, but their relative curves displayed coincidence. The spectral response curves exhibited two peaks at 440 and 640 nm, but no obvious troughs between 500 and 600 nm were observed. Nevertheless, the photosynthetic energy efficiencies of spotlights demonstrated very low values in the green/yellow region. Accordingly, more attention should be paid to green and yellow LED lighting during the vegetative stage for saffron, as well as improving their manufacturing technology.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on STI and HIV Services in the Netherlands According to Health Care Professionals
Authors: Reilingh Annemarie , Van Ditzhuijzen Jenneke , Albers Thijs , Bos Hanna , De Wit John
Published: May 2024

Surveillance data from the Netherlands show that STI/HIV testing decreased at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting barriers to access to STI/HIV care. However, the impact of the pandemic on STI/HIV care may be more complex, and key populations could be differentially affected. The aim of this study was to gain more insight into the impact of COVID-19 on STI/HIV care in the Netherlands from the perspective of STI/HIV care providers. We investigated whether professionals in STI/HIV care experienced changes compared to pre-COVID in access to STI/HIV care for priority populations, demand and provision of STI/HIV care, shifts to online STI/HIV counseling and care, and the quality assurance of STI/HIV care. An online survey was completed by 192 STI/HIV care professionals. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were held with 23 STI/HIV care professionals. According to participants, people in vulnerable circumstances, such as recent migrants and people with low health or digital literacy, may have had difficulties accessing STI/HIV care during the pandemic, especially during lockdowns and at public sexual health services. Hence, these may not have received the care they needed. Participants thought that COVID-19 measures may have compounded existing disparities. Furthermore, participants found that online care provision was not up to standard and were concerned about follow-up care for patients using private online providers of remote tests. It is important to explore how STI/HIV care for people in vulnerable circumstances can be ensured in future public health crises.
Reliability and Validity of Self-Reported Questionnaires Assessing Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Finland
Authors: Husu Pauliina , Vähä-Ypyä Henri , Tokola Kari , Sievänen Harri , Rocha Paulo , Vasankari Tommi
Published: May 2024

Reliable and valid data on physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) are needed for implementing evidence-based interventions and policies. Monitoring of these behaviors is based on PA questionnaires (PAQs) and device-based measurements, but their comparability is challenging. The present study aimed to investigate the test–retest reliability and concurrent validity of Finnish versions of the widely used PAQs (IPAQ-SF, EHIS-PAQ, GPAQ, Eurobarometer) and to compare their data with accelerometer data. This study is based on the Finnish data of the European Union Physical Activity and Sport Monitoring project (EUPASMOS). Participants (n = 62 adults, 62% women) answered the PAQs twice, one week apart, and wore an accelerometer for these seven consecutive days. Intraclass correlations, Spearman’s rank correlations, t-tests, and Cohen’s kappa with bootstrap confidence intervals were used to analyze the data. The PAQs had typically moderate-to-good test–retest reliability (ICC 0.22–0.78), GPAQ, EHIS-PAQ, and Eurobarometer showing the highest reliability. The PAQs correlated with each other when assessing sitting and vigorous PA (R = 0.70–0.97) and had a fair-to-substantial agreement when analyzing adherence to the PA recommendations (74–97%, Cohen’s kappa 0.25–0.73). All the PAQs had a poor criterion validity against the accelerometry data. The Finnish versions of the PAQs are moderately reliable and valid for assessing PA, adherence to PA recommendations and sitting among adult participants. However, the poor criterion validity against accelerometer data indicates that PAQs assess different aspects of PA constructs compared to accelerometry.
Transient Isolated, Idiopathic Growth Hormone Deficiency—A Self-Limiting Pediatric Disease with Male Predominance or a Diagnosis Based on Uncertain Criteria? Lesson from 20 Years’ Real-World Experience with Retesting at One Center
Authors: Smyczyńska Joanna , Hilczer Maciej , Smyczyńska Urszula , Lewiński Andrzej , Stawerska Renata
Published: May 2024

In the majority of children with growth hormone (GH) deficiency (GHD), normal GH secretion may occur before the attainment of final height. The aim of the study was to assess the incidence of persistent and transient GHD and the effectiveness of recombined human GH (rhGH) therapy in children with isolated, idiopathic GHD with respect to the moment of therapy withdrawal and according to different diagnostic criteria of GHD. The analysis included 260 patients (173 boys, 87 girls) with isolated, idiopathic GHD who had completed rhGH therapy and who had been reassessed for GH and IGF-1 secretion. The incidence of transient GHD with respect to different pre- and post-treatment criteria was compared together with the assessment of GH therapy effectiveness. The incidence of transient GHD, even with respect to pediatric criteria, was very high. Normal GH secretion occurred before the attainment of near-final height. Application of more restricted criteria decreased the number of children diagnosed with GHD but not the incidence of transient GHD among them. Poor response to GH therapy was observed mainly in the patients with normal IGF-1 before treatment, suggesting that their diagnosis of GHD may have been a false positive. Further efforts should be made to avoid the overdiagnosis GHD and the overtreatment of patients.
Special Issue “Genetic, Functional and Therapeutic Aspects of Procoagulant and Anticoagulant Factors”
Authors: Livnat Tami , Dardik Rima
Published: May 2024

Pro- and anticoagulant factors are core components of hemostasis [...]
Impact of Biotic/Abiotic Stress Factors on Plant Specialized Metabolites
Authors: Strzemski Maciej , Dresler Sławomir
Published: May 2024

Plants are a group of organisms that have developed remarkable adaptations to merely exist in the environment [...]
Exploring the Role of MMP-9 and MMP-9/TIMP-1 Ratio in Subacute Stroke Recovery: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Włodarczyk Lidia , Cichon Natalia , Karbownik Michał Seweryn , Saluk Joanna , Miller Elzbieta
Published: May 2024

Despite the significant changes that unfold during the subacute phase of stroke, few studies have examined recovery abilities during this critical period. As neuroinflammation subsides and tissue degradation diminishes, the processes of neuroplasticity and angiogenesis intensify. An important factor in brain physiology and pathology, particularly neuroplasticity, is matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9). Its activity is modulated by tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), which impede substrate binding and activity by binding to its active sites. Notably, TIMP-1 specifically targets MMP-9 among other matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Our present study examines whether MMP-9 may play a beneficial role in psychological functions, particularly in alleviating depressive symptoms and enhancing specific cognitive domains, such as calculation. It appears that improvements in depressive symptoms during rehabilitation were notably linked with baseline MMP-9 plasma levels (r = −0.36, p = 0.025), and particularly so with the ratio of MMP-9 to TIMP-1, indicative of active MMP-9 (r = −0.42, p = 0.008). Furthermore, our findings support previous research demonstrating an inverse relationship between pre-rehabilitation MMP-9 serum levels and post-rehabilitation motor function. Crucially, our study emphasizes a positive correlation between cognition and motor function, highlighting the necessity of integrating both aspects into rehabilitation planning. These findings demonstrate the potential utility of MMP-9 as a prognostic biomarker for delineating recovery trajectories and guiding personalized treatment strategies for stroke patients during the subacute phase.
4-O-Methylascochlorin Synergistically Enhances 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Apoptosis by Inhibiting the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Jo Min-Young , Jeong Yun-Jeong , Song Kwon-Ho , Choi Yung Hyun , Kwon Taeg Kyu , Chang Young-Chae
Published: May 2024

4-O-Methyl-ascochlorin (MAC), a derivative of the prenyl–phenol antibiotic ascochlorin extracted from the fungus Ascochyta viciae, shows anticarcinogenic effects on various cancer cells. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is used to treat colorectal cancer (CRC); however, its efficacy must be enhanced. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms by which MAC acts synergistically with 5-FU to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in CRC cells. MAC enhanced the cytotoxic effects of 5-FU by suppressing the Akt/mTOR/p70S6K and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. It also reduced the viability of 5-FU-resistant (5-FU-R) cells. Furthermore, expression of anti-apoptosis-related proteins and cancer stem-like cell (CSC) markers by 5-FU-R cells decreased in response to MAC. Similar to MAC, the knockdown of CTNNB1 induced apoptosis and reduced expression of mRNA encoding CRC markers in 5-FU-R cells. In summary, these results suggest that MAC and other β-catenin modulators may be useful in overcoming the 5-FU resistance of CRC cells.
Circadian Rhythm Disruption in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Investigated by Integrated Analysis of Bulk and Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Data
Authors: Huang Lien-Hung , Huang Chun-Ying , Liu Yueh-Wei , Chien Peng-Chen , Hsieh Ting-Min , Liu Hang-Tsung , Lin Hui-Ping , Wu Chia-Jung , Chuang Pei-Chin , Hsieh Ching-Hua
Published: May 2024

Circadian rhythms are essential regulators of a multitude of physiological and behavioral processes, such as the metabolism and function of the liver. Circadian rhythms are crucial to liver homeostasis, as the liver is a key metabolic organ accountable for the systemic equilibrium of the body. Circadian rhythm disruption alone is sufficient to cause liver cancer through the maintenance of hepatic metabolic disorder. Although there is evidence linking CRD to hepatocarcinogenesis, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie the circadian crosstalk that leads to hepatocellular carcinoma remain unknown. The expression of CRD-related genes in HCC was investigated in this study via bulk RNA transcriptomic analysis and single-cell sequencing. Dysregulated CRD-related genes are predominantly found in hepatocytes and fibroblasts, according to the findings. By using a combination of single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk RNA sequencing analyses, the dysregulated CRD-related genes ADAMTS13, BIRC5, IGFBP3, MARCO, MT2A, NNMT, and PGLYRP2 were identified. The survival analysis using the Kaplan–Meier method revealed a significant correlation between the expression levels of BIRC5 and IGFBP3 and the survival of patients diagnosed with HCC.
The Use of Compounds Derived from Cannabis sativa in the Treatment of Epilepsy, Painful Conditions, and Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Stasiłowicz-Krzemień Anna , Nogalska Wiktoria , Maszewska Zofia , Maleszka Mateusz , Dobroń Maria , Szary Agnieszka , Kępa Aleksandra , Żarowski Marcin , Hojan Katarzyna , Lukowicz Malgorzata , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta
Published: May 2024

Neurological disorders present a wide range of symptoms and challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Cannabis sativa, with its diverse chemical composition, offers potential therapeutic benefits due to its anticonvulsive, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Beyond cannabinoids, cannabis contains terpenes and polyphenols, which synergistically enhance its pharmacological effects. Various administration routes, including vaporization, oral ingestion, sublingual, and rectal, provide flexibility in treatment delivery. This review shows the therapeutic efficacy of cannabis in managing neurological disorders such as epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, psychiatric disorders, and painful pathologies. Drawing from surveys, patient studies, and clinical trials, it highlights the potential of cannabis in alleviating symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving overall quality of life for patients. Understanding the diverse therapeutic mechanisms of cannabis can open up possibilities for using this plant for individual patient needs.
Concanavalin A Delivers a Photoactive Protein to the Bacterial Wall
Authors: Mussini Andrea , Delcanale Pietro , Berni Melissa , Pongolini Stefano , Jordà-Redondo Mireia , Agut Montserrat , Steinbach Peter J. , Nonell Santi , Abbruzzetti Stefania , Viappiani Cristiano
Published: May 2024

Modular supramolecular complexes, where different proteins are assembled to gather targeting capability and photofunctional properties within the same structures, are of special interest for bacterial photodynamic inactivation, given their inherent biocompatibility and flexibility. We have recently proposed one such structure, exploiting the tetrameric bacterial protein streptavidin as the main building block, to target S. aureus protein A. To expand the palette of targets, we have linked biotinylated Concanavalin A, a sugar-binding protein, to a methylene blue-labelled streptavidin. By applying a combination of spectroscopy and microscopy, we demonstrate the binding of Concanavalin A to the walls of Gram-positive S. aureus and Gram-negative E. coli. Photoinactivation is observed for both bacterial strains in the low micromolar range, although the moderate affinity for the molecular targets and the low singlet oxygen yields limit the overall efficiency. Finally, we apply a maximum entropy method to the analysis of autocorrelation traces, which proves particularly useful when interpreting signals measured for diffusing systems heterogeneous in size, such as fluorescent species bound to bacteria.
Clinical Efficacy of Extracellular Vesicle Therapy in Periodontitis: Reduced Inflammation and Enhanced Regeneration
Authors: Puletic Miljan , Velikic Gordana , Maric Dusan M. , Supic Gordana , Maric Dusica L. , Radovic Nikola , Avramov Stevan , Vojvodic Danilo
Published: May 2024

Periodontitis, a prevalent inflammatory condition, affects the supporting structures of teeth, leading to significant oral health challenges. Traditional treatments have primarily focused on mechanical debridement, antimicrobial therapy, and surgery, which often fail to restore lost periodontal structures. Emerging as a novel approach in regenerative medicine, extracellular vesicle (EV) therapy, including exosomes, leverages nano-sized vesicles known for facilitating intercellular communication and modulating physiological and pathological processes. This study is a proof-of-concept type that evaluates the clinical efficacy of EV therapy as a non-surgical treatment for stage I–III periodontitis, focusing on its anti-inflammatory and regenerative potential. The research involved seven patients undergoing the therapy, and seven healthy individuals. Clinical parameters, including the plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth, and attachment level, were assessed alongside cytokine levels in the gingival crevicular fluid. The study found significant improvements in clinical parameters, and a marked reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines post-treatment, matching the levels of healthy subjects, underscoring the therapy’s ability to not only attenuate inflammation and enhance tissue regeneration, but also highlighting its potential in restoring periodontal health. This investigation illuminates the promising role of EV therapy in periodontal treatment, advocating for a shift towards therapies that halt disease progression and promote structural and functional restoration of periodontal tissues.
Coexistence of Retinitis Pigmentosa and Ataxia in Patients with PHARC, PCARP, and Oliver–McFarlane Syndromes
Authors: Wawrocka Anna , Walczak-Sztulpa Joanna , Kuszel Lukasz , Niedziela-Schwartz Zuzanna , Skorczyk-Werner Anna , Bernardczyk-Meller Jadwiga , Krawczynski Maciej R.
Published: May 2024

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinal dystrophy caused by the loss of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelial atrophy, leading to severe visual impairment or blindness. RP can be classified as nonsyndromic or syndromic with complex clinical phenotypes. Three unrelated Polish probands affected with retinitis pigmentosa coexisting with cerebellar ataxia were recruited for this study. Clinical heterogeneity and delayed appearance of typical disease symptoms significantly prolonged the patients’ diagnostic process. Therefore, many clinical and genetic tests have been performed in the past. Here, we provide detailed clinical and genetic analysis results of the patients. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and targeted NGS analysis allow the identification of four novel and two previously reported variants in the following genes: ABHD12, FLVCR1, and PNPLA6. The use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods finally allowed for confirmation of the clinical diagnosis. Ultra-rare diseases such as PHARC, PCARP, and Oliver–McFarlane syndromes were diagnosed in patients, respectively. Our findings confirmed the importance of the application of next-generation sequencing methods, especially in ultra-rare genetic disorders with overlapping features.
Rethinking the Esterquats: Synthesis, Stability, Ecotoxicity and Applications of Esterquats Incorporating Analogs of Betaine or Choline as the Cation in Their Structure
Authors: Wysocki Marcin , Stachowiak Witold , Smolibowski Mikołaj , Olejniczak Adriana , Niemczak Michał , Shamshina Julia L.
Published: May 2024

Esterquats constitute a unique group of quaternary ammonium salts (QASs) that contain an ester bond in the structure of the cation. Despite the numerous advantages of this class of compounds, only two mini-reviews discuss the subject of esterquats: the first one (2007) briefly summarizes their types, synthesis, and structural elements required for a beneficial environmental profile and only briefly covers their applications whereas the second one only reviews the stability of selected betaine-type esterquats in aqueous solutions. The rationale for writing this review is to critically reevaluate the relevant literature and provide others with a “state-of-the-art” snapshot of choline-type esterquats and betaine-type esterquats. Hence, the first part of this survey thoroughly summarizes the most important scientific reports demonstrating effective synthesis routes leading to the formation of both types of esterquats. In the second section, the susceptibility of esterquats to hydrolysis is explained, and the influence of various factors, such as the pH, the degree of salinity, or the temperature of the solution, was subjected to thorough analysis that includes quantitative components. The next two sections refer to various aspects associated with the ecotoxicity of esterquats. Consequently, their biodegradation and toxic effects on microorganisms are extensively analyzed as crucial factors that can affect their commercialization. Then, the reported applications of esterquats are briefly discussed, including the functionalization of macromolecules, such as cotton fabric as well as their successful utilization on a commercial scale. The last section demonstrates the most essential conclusions and reported drawbacks that allow us to elucidate future recommendations regarding the development of these promising chemicals.
The Pivotal Role of Macrophages in the Pathogenesis of Pancreatic Diseases
Authors: Ryu Seungyeon , Lee Eun Kyung
Published: May 2024

The pancreas is an organ with both exocrine and endocrine functions, comprising a highly organized and complex tissue microenvironment composed of diverse cellular and non-cellular components. The impairment of microenvironmental homeostasis, mediated by the dysregulation of cell-to-cell crosstalk, can lead to pancreatic diseases such as pancreatitis, diabetes, and pancreatic cancer. Macrophages, key immune effector cells, can dynamically modulate their polarization status between pro-inflammatory (M1) and anti-inflammatory (M2) modes, critically influencing the homeostasis of the pancreatic microenvironment and thus playing a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of the pancreatic disease. This review aims to summarize current findings and provide detailed mechanistic insights into how alterations mediated by macrophage polarization contribute to the pathogenesis of pancreatic disorders. By analyzing current research comprehensively, this article endeavors to deepen our mechanistic understanding of regulatory molecules that affect macrophage polarity and the intricate crosstalk that regulates pancreatic function within the microenvironment, thereby facilitating the development of innovative therapeutic strategies that target perturbations in the pancreatic microenvironment.