bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging Roles of Receptor-like Protein Kinases in Plant Response to Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Gandhi Akanksha , Oelmüller Ralf
Published: October 2023

The productivity of plants is hindered by unfavorable conditions. To perceive stress signals and to transduce these signals to intracellular responses, plants rely on membrane-bound receptor-like kinases (RLKs). These play a pivotal role in signaling events governing growth, reproduction, hormone perception, and defense responses against biotic stresses; however, their involvement in abiotic stress responses is poorly documented. Plant RLKs harbor an N-terminal extracellular domain, a transmembrane domain, and a C-terminal intracellular kinase domain. The ectodomains of these RLKs are quite diverse, aiding their responses to various stimuli. We summarize here the sub-classes of RLKs based on their domain structure and discuss the available information on their specific role in abiotic stress adaptation. Furthermore, the current state of knowledge on RLKs and their significance in abiotic stress responses is highlighted in this review, shedding light on their role in influencing plant–environment interactions and opening up possibilities for novel approaches to engineer stress-tolerant crop varieties.
Using the Colloidal Method to Prepare Au Catalysts for the Alkylation of Aniline by Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Hare Luka V. , Parveen Firdaus , Cookson James , Ellis Peter R. , Hellgardt Klaus , Hii King Kuok (Mimi)
Published: October 2023

Using the colloidal method, attempts were made to deposit Au NPs on seven different material supports (TiO2, α and γ-Al2O3, HFeO2, CeO2, C, and SiO2). The deposition between 0.8 and 1 wt% of Au NPs can be generally achieved, apart for SiO2 (no deposition) and α-alumina (0.3 wt%). The resultant sizes of the Au NPs were dependent on the nature as well as the surface area of the support. The catalytic activity and selectivity of the supported Au catalysts were then compared in the alkylation of aniline by benzyl alcohol. Correlations were made between the nature of the support, the size of the Au NP, and the H-binding energy. A minimum H-binding energy of 1100 μV K−1 was found to be necessary for high selectivity for the secondary amine. Comparisons of the TEM images of the pre- and post-reaction catalysts also revealed the extent of Au NP agglomeration under the reaction conditions.
HRM Accuracy and Limitations as a Species Typing Tool for Leishmania Parasites
Authors: Filgueira Camila Patricio Braga , Pitta-Pereira Daniela , Cantanhêde Lilian Motta , Ferreira Gabriel Eduardo Melim , Dos Reis Sayonara , Cupolillo Elisa , Moreira Otacilio C. , Britto Constança , Boité Mariana Côrtes
Published: October 2023

High Resolution Melting Analysis (HRM) has been pointed out as a suitable alternative method to detect and identify Leishmania species. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and limitations of a HSP70-HRM protocol both as a diagnostic scheme applied in clinical samples and as a species typing tool for laboratory research and reference services. Our data reveal the pronounced species-typing potential of the HSP70-HRM in DNA from cultured parasites. For clinical samples, however, we advise caution due to parasite load-dependent accuracy. In light of these findings and considering the importance of parasite load determination for clinical and research purposes, we recommend the integration of the presented typing scheme and the previously published Leishmania quantifying approach as combined tools for clinicians, surveillance, and research.
Plant Cell-Engineered Gold Nanoparticles Conjugated to Quercetin Inhibit SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-1 Entry
Authors: Elste James , Kumari Sangeeta , Sharma Nilesh , Razo Erendira Palomino , Azhar Eisa , Gao Feng , Nunez Maria Cuevas , Anwar Wasim , Mitchell John C. , Tiwari Vaibhav , Sahi Shivendra
Published: October 2023

Recent studies have revealed considerable promise in the antiviral properties of metal nanomaterials, specifically when biologically prepared. This study demonstrates for the first time the antiviral roles of the plant cell-engineered gold nanoparticles (pAuNPs) alone and when conjugated with quercetin (pAuNPsQ). We show here that the quercetin conjugated nanoparticles (pAuNPsQ) preferentially inhibit the cell entry of two medically important viruses—severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) using different mechanisms. Interestingly, in the case of SARS-CoV-2, the pre-treatment of target cells with pAuNPsQ inhibited the viral entry, but the pre-treatment of the virus with pAuNPsQ did not affect viral entry into the host cell. In contrast, pAuNPsQ demonstrated effective blocking capabilities against HSV-1 entry, either during the pre-treatment of target cells or by inducing virus neutralization. In addition, pAuNPsQ also significantly affected HSV-1 replication, evidenced by the plaque-counting assay. In this study, we also tested the chemically synthesized gold nanoparticles (cAuNPs) of identical size and shape and observed comparable effects. The versatility of plant cell-based nanomaterial fabrication and its modification with bioactive compounds opens a new frontier in therapeutics, specifically in designing novel antiviral formulations.
Neutrophil-Mediated Progression of Mild Cognitive Impairment to Dementia
Authors: Cho KyoungJoo
Published: October 2023

Cognitive impairment is a serious condition that begins with amnesia and progresses to cognitive decline, behavioral dysfunction, and neuropsychiatric impairment. In the final stage, dysphagia and incontinence occur. There are numerous studies and developed drugs for cognitive dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD); however, their clinical effectiveness remains equivocal. To date, attempts have been made to overcome cognitive dysfunction and understand and delay the aging processes that lead to degenerative and chronic diseases. Cognitive dysfunction is involved in aging and the disruption of inflammation and innate immunity. Recent reports have indicated that the innate immune system is prevalent in patients with AD, and that peripheral neutrophil markers can predict a decline in executive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Furthermore, altered levels of pro-inflammatory interleukins have been reported in MCI, which have been suggested to play a role in the peripheral immune system during the process from early MCI to dementia. Neutrophils are the first responders of the innate immune system. Neutrophils eliminate harmful cellular debris via phagocytosis, secrete inflammatory factors to activate host defense systems, stimulate cytokine production, kill pathogens, and regulate extracellular proteases and inhibitors. This review investigated and summarized the regulation of neutrophil function during cognitive impairment caused by various degenerative diseases. In addition, this work elucidates the cellular mechanism of neutrophils in cognitive impairment and what is currently known about the effects of activated neutrophils on cognitive decline.
Microporous Polylactic Acid Scaffolds Enable Fluorescence-Based Perfusion Imaging of Intrinsic In Vivo Vascularization
Authors: Koepple Christoph , Pollmann Lukas , Pollmann Nicola Sariye , Schulte Matthias , Kneser Ulrich , Gretz Norbert , Schmidt Volker J.
Published: October 2023

In vivo tissue engineering (TE) techniques like the AV loop model provide an isolated and well-defined microenvironment to study angiogenesis-related cell interactions. Functional visualization of the microvascular network within these artificial tissue constructs is crucial for the fundamental understanding of vessel network formation and to identify the underlying key regulatory mechanisms. To facilitate microvascular tracking advanced fluorescence imaging techniques are required. We studied the suitability of microporous polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds with known low autofluorescence to form axial vascularized tissue constructs in the AV loop model and to validate these scaffolds for fluorescence-based perfusion imaging. Compared to commonly used collagen elastin (CE) scaffolds, the total number of vessels and cells in PLA scaffolds was lower. In detail, CE-based constructs exhibited significantly higher vessel numbers on day 14 and 28 (d14: 316 ± 53; d28: 610 ± 74) compared to the respective time points in PLA-based constructs (d14: 144 ± 18; d28: 327 ± 34; each p < 0.05). Analogously, cell counts in CE scaffolds were higher compared to corresponding PLA constructs (d14: 7661.25 ± 505.93 and 5804.04 ± 716.59; d28: 11211.75 + 1278.97 and 6045.71 ± 572.72, p < 0.05). CE scaffolds showed significantly higher vessel densities in proximity to the main vessel axis compared to PLA scaffolds (200–400 µm and 600–800 µm on day 14; 400–1000 µm and 1400–1600 µm on day 28). CE scaffolds had significantly higher cell counts on day 14 at distances from 800 to 2000 µm and at distances from 400 to 1600 µm on day 28. While the total number of vessels and cells in PLA scaffolds were lower, both scaffold types were ideally suited for axial vascularization techniques. The intravascular perfusion of PLA-based constructs with fluorescence dye MHI148-PEI demonstrated dye specificity against vascular walls of low- and high-order branches as well as capillaries and facilitated the fluorescence-based visualization of microcirculatory networks. Fluorophore tracking may contribute to the development of automated quantification methods after 3D reconstruction and image segmentation. These technologies may facilitate the characterization of key regulators within specific subdomains and add to the current understanding of vessel formation in axially vascularized tissue constructs.
Prioritizing Endangered Species in Genome Sequencing: Conservation Genomics in Action with the First Platinum-Standard Reference-Quality Genome of the Critically Endangered European Mink Mustela lutreola L., 1761
Authors: Skorupski Jakub , Brandes Florian , Seebass Christian , Festl Wolfgang , Śmietana Przemysław , Balacco Jennifer , Jain Nivesh , Tilley Tatiana , Abueg Linelle , Wood Jonathan , Sims Ying , Formenti Giulio , Fedrigo Olivier , Jarvis Erich D.
Published: October 2023

The European mink Mustela lutreola (Mustelidae) ranks among the most endangered mammalian species globally, experiencing a rapid and severe decline in population size, density, and distribution. Given the critical need for effective conservation strategies, understanding its genomic characteristics becomes paramount. To address this challenge, the platinum-quality, chromosome-level reference genome assembly for the European mink was successfully generated under the project of the European Mink Centre consortium. Leveraging PacBio HiFi long reads, we obtained a 2586.3 Mbp genome comprising 25 scaffolds, with an N50 length of 154.1 Mbp. Through Hi-C data, we clustered and ordered the majority of the assembly (>99.9%) into 20 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including heterosomes, ranging from 6.8 to 290.1 Mbp. The newly sequenced genome displays a GC base content of 41.9%. Additionally, we successfully assembled the complete mitochondrial genome, spanning 16.6 kbp in length. The assembly achieved a BUSCO (Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs) completeness score of 98.2%. This high-quality reference genome serves as a valuable genomic resource for future population genomics studies concerning the European mink and related taxa. Furthermore, the newly assembled genome holds significant potential in addressing key conservation challenges faced by M. lutreola. Its applications encompass potential revision of management units, assessment of captive breeding impacts, resolution of phylogeographic questions, and facilitation of monitoring and evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of dedicated conservation strategies for the European mink. This species serves as an example that highlights the paramount importance of prioritizing endangered species in genome sequencing projects due to the race against time, which necessitates the comprehensive exploration and characterization of their genomic resources before their populations face extinction.
Synthesis, Physicochemical Characterization using a Facile Validated HPLC Quantitation Analysis Method of 4-Chloro-phenylcarbamoyl-methyl Ciprofloxacin and Its Biological Investigations
Authors: Al-Hakkani Mostafa F. , Ahmed Nourhan , Abbas Alaa A. , Hassan Mohammad H. A. , Aziz Hossameldin A. , Elshamsy Ali M. , Khalifa Hazim O. , Abdelshakour Mohamed A. , Saddik Mohammed S. , Elsayed Mahmoud M. A. , Sabet Marwa A. , El-Mokhtar Mohamed A. , Alsehli Mosa , Amin M. S. , Abu-Dief Ahmed M. , Mohammed Hamada H. H.
Published: October 2023

A novel derivative of ciprofloxacin (Cpx) was synthesized and characterized using various analytical techniques, including FT-IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, TEM and SEM analysis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HPLC analysis. The newly prepared Cpx derivative (Cpx-Drv) exhibited significantly enhanced antibacterial properties compared to Cpx itself. In particular, Cpx-Drv demonstrated a 51% increase in antibacterial activity against S. aureus and a 30% improvement against B. subtilis. It displayed potent inhibitory effects on topoisomerases II (DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV) as potential molecular targets, with IC50 values of 6.754 and 1.913 µg/mL, respectively, in contrast to Cpx, which had IC50 values of 2.125 and 0.821 µg/mL, respectively. Docking studies further supported these findings, showing that Cpx-Drv exhibited stronger binding interactions with the gyrase enzyme (PDB ID: 2XCT) compared to the parent Cpx, with binding affinities of −10.3349 and −7.7506 kcal/mole, respectively.
Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Genetic Variants in the Polish Armed Forces Using Whole Genome Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Skuza Katarzyna , Rutyna Pawel , Krzowski Lukasz , Rabalski Lukasz , Lepionka Tomasz
Published: October 2023

Military operations involve the global movement of personnel and equipment, increasing the risk of spreading infectious pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2. Given the continuous engagement of the Polish Armed Forces in overseas operations, an active surveillance program targeting Variants of Concern (VOC) of SARS-CoV-2 was implemented among military personnel. Screening using RT-qPCR tests was conducted on 1699 soldiers between November 2021 and May 2022. Of these, 84 SARS-CoV-2 positive samples met the criteria for whole genome sequencing analysis and variant identification. Whole genome sequencing was performed using two advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies: sequencing by synthesis and nanopore sequencing. Our analysis revealed eleven SARS-CoV-2 lineages belonging to 21K, 21L, and 21J. The predominant lineage was BA.1.1 (57% of the samples), followed by BA.1 (23%) and BA.2 (6%). Notably, all identified lineages detected in post-deployment screening tests were classified as VOC and were already present in Poland, showing the effectiveness of the Military Sanitary Inspection measures in mitigating the COVID-19 spread. Pre-departure and post-mission screening and isolation successfully prevented SARS-CoV-2 VOC exportation and importation. Proactive measures are vital in minimizing the impact of COVID-19 in military settings, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and response strategies.
Aβ1-42 Accumulation Accompanies Changed Expression of Ly6/uPAR Proteins, Dysregulation of the Cholinergic System, and Degeneration of Astrocytes in the Cerebellum of Mouse Model of Early Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Bychkov Maxim L. , Isaev Aizek B. , Andreev-Andrievskiy Alexander A. , Petrov Konstantin , Paramonov Alexander S. , Kirpichnikov Mikhail P. , Lyukmanova Ekaterina N.
Published: October 2023

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a widespread neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of oligomeric toxic forms of β-amyloid (Aβ1-42) and dysfunction of the cholinergic system in the different brain regions. However, the exact mechanisms of AD pathogenesis and the role of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the disease progression remain unclear. Here, we revealed a decreased expression of a number of the Ly6/uPAR proteins targeting nAChRs in the cerebellum of 2xTg-AD mice (model of early AD) in comparison with non-transgenic mice both at mRNA and protein levels. We showed that co-localization of one of them, – neuromodulator Lynx1, with α7-nAChR was diminished in the vicinity of cerebellar astrocytes of 2xTg-AD mice, while Aβ1-42 co-localization with this receptor present was increased. Moreover, the expression of anti-inflammatory transcription factor KLF4 regulating transcription of the Ly6/uPAR genes was decreased in the cerebellum of 2xTg-AD mice, while expression of inflammatory cytokine TNF-α was increased. Based on these data together with observed astrocyte degeneration in the cerebellum of 2xTg-AD mice, we suggest the mechanism by which expression of the Ly6/uPAR proteins upon Aβ pathology results in dysregulation of the cholinergic system and particularly of α7-nAChR function in the cerebellum. This leads to enhanced neuroinflammation and cerebellar astrocyte degeneration.
N6-Methyladenine Progressively Accumulates in Mitochondrial DNA during Aging
Authors: Sturm Ádám , Sharma Himani , Bodnár Ferenc , Aslam Maryam , Kovács Tibor , Németh Ákos , Hotzi Bernadette , Billes Viktor , Sigmond Tímea , Tátrai Kitti , Egyed Balázs , Téglás-Huszár Blanka , Schlosser Gitta , Charmpilas Nikolaos , Ploumi Christina , Perczel András , Tavernarakis Nektarios , Vellai Tibor
Published: October 2023

N6-methyladenine (6mA) in the DNA is a conserved epigenetic mark with various cellular, physiological and developmental functions. Although the presence of 6mA was discovered a few years ago in the nuclear genome of distantly related animal taxa and just recently in mammalian mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), accumulating evidence at present seriously questions the presence of N6-adenine methylation in these genetic systems, attributing it to methodological errors. In this paper, we present a reliable, PCR-based method to determine accurately the relative 6mA levels in the mtDNA of Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster and dogs, and show that these levels gradually increase with age. Furthermore, daf-2(−)-mutant worms, which are defective for insulin/IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor) signaling and live twice as long as the wild type, display a half rate at which 6mA progressively accumulates in the mtDNA as compared to normal values. Together, these results suggest a fundamental role for mtDNA N6-adenine methylation in aging and reveal an efficient diagnostic technique to determine age using DNA.
Evaluation of the Effect of Antibacterial Peptides on Model Monolayers
Authors: Golonka Iwona , Pucułek Jakub E. , Greber Katarzyna E. , Dryś Andrzej , Sawicki Wiesław , Musiał Witold
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of the synthesized antibacterial peptides: P2 (WKWK)2-KWKWK-NH2, P4 (C12)2-KKKK-NH2, P5 (KWK)2-KWWW-NH2, and P6 (KK)2-KWWW-NH2 on the physicochemical properties of a model biological membrane made of azolectin or lecithin. The Langmuir Wilhelmy method was used for the experiments. Based on the compressibility factor, it was determined that the monolayers formed of azolectin and peptides in the aqueous subphase are in the condensed liquid phase. At the boundary between the condensed and expanded liquid phases, there was a monolayer made of lecithin and P4, P5 or P6 in the aqueous subphase. In turn, the film consisting of lecithin alone (37.7 mN/m) and lecithin and P2 (42.6 mN/m) in the water subphase was in the expanded liquid phase. All peptides change, to varying degrees, the organization and packing of molecules in the monolayer, both those made of azolectin and of lecithin. The test results can be used for further research to design a system with the expected properties for specific organisms.
RNA-Based Strategies for Cancer Therapy: In Silico Design and Evaluation of ASOs for Targeted Exon Skipping
Authors: Pacelli Chiara , Rossi Alice , Milella Michele , Colombo Teresa , Le Pera Loredana
Published: October 2023

Precision medicine in oncology has made significant progress in recent years by approving drugs that target specific genetic mutations. However, many cancer driver genes remain challenging to pharmacologically target (“undruggable”). To tackle this issue, RNA-based methods like antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that induce targeted exon skipping (ES) could provide a promising alternative. In this work, a comprehensive computational procedure is presented, focused on the development of ES-based cancer treatments. The procedure aims to produce specific protein variants, including inactive oncogenes and partially restored tumor suppressors. This novel computational procedure encompasses target-exon selection, in silico prediction of ES products, and identification of the best candidate ASOs for further experimental validation. The method was effectively employed on extensively mutated cancer genes, prioritized according to their suitability for ES-based interventions. Notable genes, such as NRAS and VHL, exhibited potential for this therapeutic approach, as specific target exons were identified and optimal ASO sequences were devised to induce their skipping. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first computational procedure that encompasses all necessary steps for designing ASO sequences tailored for targeted ES, contributing with a versatile and innovative approach to addressing the challenges posed by undruggable cancer driver genes and beyond.
Bifunctional MoS2/Al2O3-Zeolite Catalysts in the Hydroprocessing of Methyl Palmitate
Authors: Vlasova Evgeniya , Zhao Yiheng , Danilova Irina , Aleksandrov Pavel , Shamanaev Ivan , Nuzhdin Alexey , Suprun Evgeniy , Pakharukova Vera , Tsaplin Dmitriy , Maksimov Anton , Bukhtiyarova Galina
Published: October 2023

A series of bifunctional catalysts, MoS2/Al2O3 (70 wt.%), zeolite (30 wt.%) (zeolite—ZSM-5, ZSM-12, and ZSM-22), and silica aluminophosphate SAPO-11, were synthesized for hydroconversion of methyl palmitate (10 wt.% in dodecane) in a trickle-bed reactor. Mo loading was about 7 wt.%. Catalysts and supports were characterized by different physical-chemical methods (HRTEM-EDX, SEM-EDX, XRD, N2 physisorption, and FTIR spectroscopy). Hydroprocessing was performed at a temperature of 250–350 °C, hydrogen pressure of 3.0–5.0 MPa, liquid hourly space velocity (LHSV) of 36 h−1, and an H2/feed ratio of 600 Nm3/m3. Complete conversion of oxygen-containing compounds was achieved at 310 °C in the presence of MoS2/Al2O3-zeolite catalysts; the selectivity for the conversion of methyl palmitate via the ‘direct’ hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) route was over 85%. The yield of iso-alkanes gradually increases in order: MoS2/Al2O3 < MoS2/Al2O3-ZSM-12 < MoS2/Al2O3-ZSM-5 < MoS2/Al2O3-SAPO-11 < MoS2/Al2O3-ZSM-22. The sample MoS2/Al2O3-ZSM-22 demonstrated the highest yield of iso-alkanes (40%). The hydroisomerization activity of the catalysts was in good correlation with the concentration of Brønsted acid sites in the synthesized supports.
CRISPR/dCas9 Tools: Epigenetic Mechanism and Application in Gene Transcriptional Regulation
Authors: Cai Ruijie , Lv Runyu , Shi Xin’e , Yang Gongshe , Jin Jianjun
Published: October 2023

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated cleavage of DNA, which depends on the endonuclease activity of Cas9, has been widely used for gene editing due to its excellent programmability and specificity. However, the changes to the DNA sequence that are mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 affect the structures and stability of the genome, which may affect the accuracy of results. Mutations in the RuvC and HNH regions of the Cas9 protein lead to the inactivation of Cas9 into dCas9 with no endonuclease activity. Despite the loss of endonuclease activity, dCas9 can still bind the DNA strand using guide RNA. Recently, proteins with active/inhibitory effects have been linked to the end of the dCas9 protein to form fusion proteins with transcriptional active/inhibitory effects, named CRISPRa and CRISPRi, respectively. These CRISPR tools mediate the transcription activity of protein-coding and non-coding genes by regulating the chromosomal modification states of target gene promoters, enhancers, and other functional elements. Here, we highlight the epigenetic mechanisms and applications of the common CRISPR/dCas9 tools, by which we hope to provide a reference for future related gene regulation, gene function, high-throughput target gene screening, and disease treatment.
Healthcare Trust Evolution with Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Dhiman Pummy , Bonkra Anupam , Kaur Amandeep , Gulzar Yonis , Hamid Yasir , Mir Mohammad Shuaib , Soomro Arjumand Bano , Elwasila Osman
Published: October 2023

Recent developments in IoT, big data, fog and edge networks, and AI technologies have had a profound impact on a number of industries, including medical. The use of AI for therapeutic purposes has been hampered by its inexplicability. Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI), a revolutionary movement, has arisen to solve this constraint. By using decision-making and prediction outputs, XAI seeks to improve the explicability of standard AI models. In this study, we examined global developments in empirical XAI research in the medical field. The bibliometric analysis tools VOSviewer and Biblioshiny were used to examine 171 open access publications from the Scopus database (2019–2022). Our findings point to several prospects for growth in this area, notably in areas of medicine like diagnostic imaging. With 109 research articles using XAI for healthcare classification, prediction, and diagnosis, the USA leads the world in research output. With 88 citations, IEEE Access has the greatest number of publications of all the journals. Our extensive survey covers a range of XAI applications in healthcare, such as diagnosis, therapy, prevention, and palliation, and offers helpful insights for researchers who are interested in this field. This report provides a direction for future healthcare industry research endeavors.
Chemical Communication in Insects: New Advances in Integrated Pest Management Strategies
Authors: Guerrero Angel , Reddy Gadi V. P.
Published: October 2023

Chemical communication plays a pivotal role in many insect behaviors, including food-seeking, recruitment, the recognition of congeners, reproduction, alarm, territorial marking, and survival [...]
Examination of Myofascial Stiffness and Elasticity in the Upper Trapezius Region in Patients with Unilateral Neck Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Seidel Anika , Brandl Andreas , Egner Christoph , Schleip Robert
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: Globally, neck pain is prevalent, affecting around thirty percent of the population annually. To better understand the influence of pain on the myofascial layers, the present study investigated these on the upper trapezius muscle in unilateral, more severe neck pain. (2) Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study. Forty patients (42.2 ± 14.7) with a confirmed diagnosis of unilateral neck pain were examined using durometry and indentometry. This study evaluated the stiffness, elasticity, and pressure pain threshold of both sides of the neck (symptomatic side: SS; healthy side: HS). Furthermore, the range of motion of the cervical spine (lateral flexion, rotation) was quantified using a digital goniometer. (3) Results: A significant lateral discrepancy was observed in stiffness between groups (durometry: SS—33.76 ± 7.78, HS—29.75 ± 7.45, p < 0.001; indentometry: SS—59.73 ± 33.93, HS—4.18 ± 12.69, p = 0.024). In contrast, no differences were found between the comparison sides of the upper trapezius for the parameter’s elasticity (SS—0.101 ± 1.09, HS—−0.006 ± 0.29, p = 0.416), cervical spine mobility (lateral flexion: SS—37.08 ± 8.15, HS—37.73 ± 7.61, p = 0.559; rotation: SS—73.55 ± 12.37, HS—72.85 ± 11.10, p = 0.660), and algometry (SS—36.41 ± 17.53, HS—37.22 ± 17.00, p = 0.657). (4) Conclusion: Overall, it can be concluded that more severe neck pain unilaterally shows differences in stiffness on the same side. Future research is needed to investigate the links.
Prognostic Factors for Restenosis of Superficial Femoral Artery after Endovascular Treatment
Authors: Boc Vinko , Kozak Matija , Eržen Barbara , Božič Mijovski Mojca , Boc Anja , Blinc Aleš
Published: October 2023

High incidence of superficial femoral artery (SFA) restenosis after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) poses a persistent challenge in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) treatment. We studied how the patients‘ and lesions’ characteristics, thrombin generation, overall haemostatic potential (OHP), and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the NR4A2 and PECAM1 genes affected the likelihood of restenosis. In total, 206 consecutive PAD patients with limiting intermittent claudication due to SFA stenosis who were treated with balloon angioplasty with bailout stenting when necessary were included. Patients’ clinical status and patency of the treated arterial segment on ultrasound examination were assessed 1, 6, and 12 months after the procedure. Restenosis occurred in 45% of patients, with less than 20% of all patients experiencing symptoms. In the multivariate analysis, predictors of restenosis proved to be poor infrapopliteal runoff, higher lesion complexity, absence of treated arterial hypertension, delayed lag phase in thrombin generation, and higher contribution of plasma extracellular vesicles to thrombin concentration. Poor infrapopliteal runoff increased the risk of restenosis in the first 6 months, but not later. The negative effect of poor infrapopliteal runoff on SFA patency opens questions about the potential benefits of simultaneous revascularisation of below-knee arteries along with SFA revascularisation.
Perioperative Analgesia and Patients’ Satisfaction in Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Section: Fentanyl Versus Morphine
Authors: Botea Mihai O. , Lungeanu Diana , Petrica Alina , Sandor Mircea I. , Huniadi Anca C. , Barsac Claudiu , Marza Adina M. , Moisa Ramona C. , Maghiar Laura , Botea Raluca M. , Macovei Codruta I. , Bimbo-Szuhai Erika
Published: October 2023

Perioperative analgesia for cesarean section aims to ensure the mother’s comfort, facilitate a smooth surgical experience, and promote a successful recovery. One-hundred-ninety patients were enrolled in a randomized double-blind study designed to assess the quality of perioperative analgesia, level of satisfaction, and incidence of adverse reactions in elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia when fentanyl or morphine was added to bupivacaine. Two treatment groups comprising 173 subjects were compared in the per-protocol analysis: F (fentanyl, standard dose 25 μg) and M (morphine, standard dose 100 μg). Numerical pain scores were recorded perioperatively for 72 h (both at rest and on mobilization), with overall postoperative satisfaction and analgesic-related side effects. The patients in the morphine group had significantly better pain management (Mann–Whitney U test, p < 0.001) and higher level of satisfaction (Mann–Whitney U test, p < 0.001). The latter was related to the greater need for rescue medication in the fentanyl group (OR = 4.396; p = 0.019). On the other hand, fentanyl had significantly fewer non-life-threatening side effects, such as high-intensity pruritus (Mann–Whitney U test, p < 0.001), nausea (OR = 0.324; p = 0.019), vomiting and dizziness upon first mobilization (OR = 0.256; p < 0.001). It remains for future clinical trials to help establish doses that will tilt the scale to one side or the other.
High-Precision 3D Printing of Microporous Cochlear Implants for Personalized Local Drug Delivery
Authors: Isaakidou Aikaterini , Apachitei Iulian , Fratila-Apachitei Lidy Elena , Zadpoor Amir Abbas
Published: October 2023

Hearing loss is a highly prevalent multifactorial disorder affecting 20% of the global population. Current treatments using the systemic administration of drugs are therapeutically ineffective due to the anatomy of the cochlea and the existing blood–labyrinth barrier. Local drug delivery systems can ensure therapeutic drug concentrations locally while preventing adverse effects caused by high dosages of systemically administered drugs. Here, we aimed to design, fabricate, and characterize a local drug delivery system for the human cochlea. The design was relevant to the size of the human ear, included two different shapes, and incorporated two different microporous structures acting as reservoirs for drug loading and release. The four cochlear implant designs were printed using the two-photon polymerization (2PP) technique and the IP-Q photoresist. The optimized 2PP process enabled the fabrication of the cochlear implants with great reproducibility and shape fidelity. Rectangular and cylindrical implants featuring cylindrical and tapered tips, respectively, were successfully printed. Their outer dimensions were 0.6 × 0.6 × 2.4 mm3 (L × W × H). They incorporated internal porous networks that were printed with high accuracy, yielding pore sizes of 17.88 ± 0.95 μm and 58.15 ± 1.62 μm for the designed values of 20 μm and 60 μm, respectively. The average surface roughness was 1.67 ± 0.24 μm, and the water contact angle was 72.3 ± 3.0°. A high degree of polymerization (~90%) of the IP-Q was identified after printing, and the printed material was cytocompatible with murine macrophages. The cochlear implants designed and 3D printed in this study, featuring relevant sizes for the human ear and tunable internal microporosity, represent a novel approach for personalized treatment of hearing loss through local drug delivery.
Nocturnal Glucose Patterns with and without Hypoglycemia in People with Type 1 Diabetes Managed with Multiple Daily Insulin Injections
Authors: Kladov Danil E. , Berikov Vladimir B. , Semenova Julia F. , Klimontov Vadim V.
Published: October 2023

Nocturnal hypoglycemia (NH) is a potentially dangerous and underestimated complication of insulin therapy. In this study, we aimed to determine which patterns of nocturnal glucose profiles are associated with NH in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) managed with multiple daily insulin injections. A dataset of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) recordings obtained from 395 adult subjects with T1D was used for modeling. The clustering of CGM data was performed using a hierarchical clustering algorithm. Ten clusters without hypoglycemia and six clusters with NH episode(s) were identified. The differences among the clusters included initial and final glucose levels, glucose change during the night, and the presence of uptrends or downtrends. Post-midnight hyperglycemia was revealed in 5 out of 10 clusters without NH; in patterns with downtrends, initially elevated glucose prevented NH episodes. In clusters with initially near-normal glucose levels and downtrends, most episodes of NH were observed from midnight to 4 a.m.; if glucose was initially elevated, the episodes occurred at 2–4 a.m. or 4–6 a.m., depending on the time of the start of the downtrend. The results demonstrate the diversity of nocturnal glucose profiles in patients with T1D, which highlights the need for a differentiated approach to therapy adjustment.
Selective Impact of Selenium Compounds on Two Cytokine Storm Players
Authors: Sinha Indu , Zhu Junjia , Sinha Raghu
Published: October 2023

COVID-19 patients suffer from the detrimental effects of cytokine storm and not much success has been achieved to overcome this issue. We sought to test the ability of selenium to reduce the impact of two important cytokine storm players: IL-6 and TNF-α. The effects of four selenium compounds on the secretion of these cytokines from THP-1 macrophages were evaluated in vitro following an LPS challenge. Also, the potential impact of methylseleninic acid (MSeA) on Nrf2 and IκBα was determined after a short treatment of THP-1 macrophages. MSeA was found to be the most potent selenium form among the four selenium compounds tested that reduced the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α secreted by THP-1 macrophages. In addition, an increase in Nrf2 and decrease in pIκBα in human macrophages was observed following MSeA treatment. Our data indicate that COVID-19 patients might benefit from the addition of MSeA to the standard therapy due to its ability to suppress the key players in the cytokine storm.
Perineal Hernia Mesh Repair Using Only the Perineal Approach: How We Do It
Authors: Moiș Emil , Graur Florin , Horvath Levente , Furcea Luminița , Zaharie Florin , Vălean Dan , Moldovan Septimiu , Al Hajjar Nadim
Published: October 2023

Perineal hernia is a rare complication of rectal surgery. Different types of surgical approach have been described, but none of them have proven their superiority. Although there are many methods of closing the defect, we selected two cases to present from a series of five cases, in which the perineal hernia was successfully resolved surgically using only the perineal approach. The reconstruction of the perineal floor and closure of the defect were performed using a synthetic polypropylene mesh. The significance of this Technical Note article lies in the fact that we describe, step by step, a surgical technique for perineal hernia using just a perineal approach.
Altering Natural Ecosystems Causes Negative Consequences on the Soil Physical Qualities: An Evidence-Based Study from Nilgiri Hill Region of Western Ghats, India
Authors: Jagadesh M. , Selvi Duraisamy , Thiyageshwari Subramanium , Srinivasarao Cherukumalli , Raja Pushpanathan , Surendran Udayar Pillai , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Mattar Mohamed A.
Published: October 2023

Land use change (LUC) has direct and indirect consequences on soil quality. To gain insight into how LUC influences the physical properties of soil, it can be advantageous to compare undisturbed ecosystems with those that have naturally evolved over time, as well as to use soil quality indices to pinpoint the sensitivity of each ecosystem and land use change (LUC). A soil survey was carried out in the six major ecosystems of the Nilgiri Hill Region: cropland (CL), deciduous forest (DF), evergreen forest (EF), forest plantation (FP), scrubland (SL), and tea plantation (TP), with those having an establishment for over 50 years being selected and analyzed for soil physical parameters. In addition, soil quality indices were also derived to pinpoint the vulnerability of each ecosystem to LUC. The results reveal that the changes in land use significantly altered the soil physical properties. The content of clay was higher in EF and DF and increased with the soil profile’s depth, whereas the sand content was higher in CL and TP and decreased with the depth increment. BD and PD were significantly lower in EF, DF, SL, and FP, whereas they were higher in CL and TP. PS and ASM followed a similar trend to BD and PD. Owing to undisturbed natural settings, an abundance of litter input, and higher carbon concentrations, the HC was higher in EF, DF, SL, and FP, whereas, in the case of anthropogenic-influenced ecosystems such as CL and TP, it was lower. We discovered that LUC has altered Ag S, WSA, and MWD. Due to tillage and other cultural practices, Ag S, WSA, and MWD were significantly lower in CL and TP. However, the results confirm that native ecosystems (EF and DF) with a higher carbon content prevent such degradation, thereby resulting in good Ag S, WSA, and MWD.
4,4′-([2,2′-Bithiophene]-5,5′-diylbis(ethyne-2,1-diyl))bis(1-methylpyridin-1-ium) Iodide
Authors: Romagnoli Lorenza , D’Annibale Andrea , Latini Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Viologens are a highly advantageous class of compounds for the synthesis of functional materials. Owing to their versatile structure, they can embed additional conjugated moieties, thus representing a convenient platform, for example for organic semiconductors and other energy-related uses. A straightforward synthesis of an extended viologen containing a bithiophene is described here, together with its UV-visible absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, showing multiple absorption and emission bands. Thanks to its ease of synthesis and optical properties, this organic salt appears to be of potential interest for various optoelectronic applications.
Identification of the Production of Small Holes and Threads Using Progressive Technologies in Austenite Stainless Steel 1.4301
Authors: Stančeková Dana , Turian Filip , Šajgalík Michal , Drbúl Mário , Náprstková Nataša , Rudawská Anna , Špiriak Miroslav
Published: October 2023

This article focuses on the technologies used by a manufacturing company to produce threads in chrome–nickel steel 1.4301 at specific sheet thicknesses. To enhance production quality, two specific technologies were chosen for hole formation, considering the requirements of the company. Both conventional drilling and nonconventional laser cutting methods were evaluated as potential techniques for hole production. Conventional thread-cutting technology and progressive forming technology were employed to create metric internal threads. The aim of integrating these diverse technologies is to identify the optimal solution for a specific sheet thickness in order to prevent the occurrence of defective threads that could not fulfil the intended purpose. The evaluation of the threads and holes relies on the examination of surface characteristics, such as the quality of the surface, as well as the lack of any signs of damage, cracks, or burrs. Furthermore, residual stresses in the surface layer were monitored because these stresses have the potential to cause cracking. Additionally, extensive monitoring was performed to guarantee that the form and size of the manufactured threads were correct to ensure smooth assembly and optimal functionality.
Investigation of Ferrofluid Sessile Droplet Tensile Deformation in a Uniform Magnetic Field
Authors: Zhu Gui-Ping , Wu Shi-Hua , Zheng Shu-Ze , Li Lai , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: October 2023

A significant growth of research on digital microfluidics has been achieved over the past several decades, and the field is still attracting increasing attention for fulfilling relevant mechanisms and potential applications. Numerous studies have been devoted to actively manipulating droplets in a variety of fundamental and applicational scenarios. In this work, the deformation of ferromagnetic fluid droplets is studied under an external uniform magnetic field. The droplets are precisely dispersed on the bottom surface of a container assembled with polymer methacrylate (PMMA) plates. Mineral oil is applied instead of air as the surrounding medium for easy stretching and preventing water solvent evaporation in ferrofluid. The design and processing of the container are firstly carried out to observe the shape and characterize the wettability of the droplets in the immiscible mineral oil medium. Furthermore, the droplets’ deformation and the working mechanism are given under the action of the horizontal uniform magnetic field. At different magnetic field intensities, the droplet is stretched in the horizontal direction parallel to the applied field. Due to volume conservation, the dimension in the height reduces correspondingly. With the coupling effect of magnetic force, viscous force and interfacial tension, the contact angle first increases with the magnetic field and then basically remains unchanged upon magnetization saturation. Consistent with the experimental results, the numerical method clearly reveals the field coupling mechanism and the nonlinear deformation of the sessile droplet.
Induction of New Aromatic Polyketides from the Marine Actinobacterium Streptomyces griseorubiginosus through an OSMAC Approach
Authors: Martín-Aragón Víctor Rodríguez , Millán Francisco Romero , Cuadrado Cristina , Daranas Antonio Hernández , Medarde Antonio Fernández , López José M. Sánchez
Published: October 2023

Using the OSMAC (One Strain Many Compounds) approach, the actinobacterium Streptomyces griseorubiginosus, derived from an unidentified cnidarian collected from a reef near Pointe de Bellevue in Réunion Island (France), was subjected to cultivation under diverse conditions. This endeavour yielded the isolation of a repertoire of 23 secondary metabolites (1–23), wherein five compounds were unprecedented as natural products (19–23). Specifically, compounds 19 and 20 showcased novel anthrone backbones, while compound 23 displayed a distinctive tetralone structure. Additionally, compounds 21 and 22 presented an unusual naphtho [2,3-c]furan-4(9H)-one chromophore. Interestingly, the detection of all these novel compounds (19–23) was exclusively achieved when the bacterium was cultured in FA-1 liquid medium supplemented with the epigenetic modifier γ-butyrolactone. The elucidation of the structural features of the newfound compounds was accomplished through a combination of HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, as well as QM-NMR (Quantum Mechanical—Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) methods and by comparison with existing literature. Moreover, the determination of the relative configuration of compound 23 was facilitated by employing the mix-J-DP4 computational approach.
Unlocking Potentially Therapeutic Phytochemicals in Capadulla (Doliocarpus dentatus) from Guyana Using Untargeted Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics
Authors: Smith Ewart , Lewis Ainsely , Narine Suresh S. , Emery R. J. Neil
Published: October 2023

Doliocarpus dentatus is thought to have a wide variety of therapeutic phytochemicals that allegedly improve libido and cure impotence. Although a few biomarkers have been identified with potential antinociceptive and cytotoxic properties, an untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approach has never been undertaken to identify therapeutic biofingerprints for conditions, such as erectile dysfunction, in men. This study executes a preliminary phytochemical screening of the woody vine of two ecotypes of D. dentatus with renowned differences in therapeutic potential for erectile dysfunction. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry-based metabolomics was used to screen for flavonoids, terpenoids, and other chemical classes found to contrast between red and white ecotypes. Among the metabolite chemodiversity found in the ecotype screens, using a combination of GNPS, MS-DIAL, and SIRIUS, approximately 847 compounds were annotated at levels 2 to 4, with the majority of compounds falling under lipid and lipid-like molecules, benzenoids and phenylpropanoids, and polyketides, indicative of the contributions of the flavonoid, shikimic acid, and terpenoid biosynthesis pathways. Despite the extensive annotation, we report on 138 tentative compound identifications of potentially therapeutic compounds, with 55 selected compounds at a level-2 annotation, and 22 statistically significant therapeutic biomarkers, the majority of which were polyphenols. Epicatechin methyl gallate, catechin gallate, and proanthocyanidin A2 had the greatest significant differences and were also relatively abundant among the red and white ecotypes. These putatively identified compounds reportedly act as antioxidants, neutralizing damaging free radicals, and lowering cell oxidative stress, thus aiding in potentially preventing cellular damage and promoting overall well-being, especially for treating erectile dysfunction (ED).