bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation of Yeast Strains with Higher Proline Uptake and Their Applications to Beer Fermentation
Authors: Tanahashi Ryoya , Nishimura Akira , Nguyen Minh , Sitepu Irnayuli , Fox Glen , Boundy-Mills Kyria , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Although proline is the most or second most abundant amino acid in wort and grape must, it is not fully consumed by the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae during alcoholic fermentation, unlike other amino acids. Our previous studies showed that arginine, the third most abundant amino acid in wort, inhibits the utilization of proline in most strains of S. cerevisiae. Furthermore, we found that some non-Saccharomyces yeasts utilized proline in a specific artificial medium with arginine and proline as the only nitrogen source, but these yeasts were not suitable for beer fermentation due to their low alcohol productivity. For yeasts to be useful for brewing, they need to utilize proline and produce alcohol during fermentation. In this study, 11 S. cerevisiae strains and 10 non-Saccharomyces yeast strains in the Phaff Yeast Culture Collection were identified that utilize proline effectively. Notably, two of these S. cerevisiae strains, UCDFST 40-144 and 68-44, utilize proline and produce sufficient alcohol in the beer fermentation model used. These strains have the potential to create distinctive beer products that are specifically alcoholic but with a reduction in proline in the finished beer.
Glycyrrhizinic Acid as an Antiviral and Anticancer Agent in the Treatment of Human Papillomavirus
Authors: Bravo Victoria , Serrano María , Duque Alfonso , Ferragud Juan , Coronado Pluvio J.
Published: November 2023

Human papillomavirus (HPV), like any other virus, needs to penetrate the host cell and make use of its machinery to replicate. From there, HPV infection can be asymptomatic or lead to benign and premalignant lesions or even different types of cancer. HPV oncogenesis is due to the ability of the viral oncoproteins E6 and E7 to alter the control mechanisms for the growth and proliferation of host cell. Therefore, the use of agents with the ability to control these processes is essential in the search for effective treatments against HPV infections. Glycyrrhizinic acid (Gly), the active ingredient in liquorice, has been shown in numerous preclinical studies to have an antiviral and anticancer activity, reducing the expression of E6 and E7 and inducing apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. In addition, it also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory or re-epithelializing properties that can be useful in HPV infections. This review includes the different antiviral and anticancer mechanisms described for Gly, as well as the clinical studies carried out that position it as a potential therapeutic strategy against HPV both through its topical application and by oral administration.
Sedation for Patients with Sepsis: Towards a Personalised Approach
Authors: Marcos-Vidal José Miguel , González Rafael , Merino María , Higuera Eva , García Cristina
Published: November 2023

This article looks at the challenges of sedoanalgesia for sepsis patients, and argues for a personalised approach. Sedation is a necessary part of treatment for patients in intensive care to reduce stress and anxiety and improve long-term prognoses. Sepsis patients present particular difficulties as they are at increased risk of a wide range of complications, such as multiple organ failure, neurological dysfunction, septic shock, ARDS, abdominal compartment syndrome, vasoplegic syndrome, and myocardial dysfunction. The development of any one of these complications can cause the patient’s rapid deterioration, and each has distinct implications in terms of appropriate and safe forms of sedation. In this way, the present article reviews the sedative and analgesic drugs commonly used in the ICU and, placing special emphasis on their strategic administration in sepsis patients, develops a set of proposals for sedoanalgesia aimed at improving outcomes for this group of patients. These proposals represent a move away from simplistic approaches like avoiding benzodiazepines to more “objective-guided sedation” that accounts for a patient’s principal pathology, as well as any comorbidities, and takes full advantage of the therapeutic arsenal currently available to achieve personalised, patient-centred treatment goals.
DRESS and Stevens–Johnson Syndrome Overlap Secondary to Allopurinol in a 50-Year-Old Man—A Diagnostic and Treatment Challenge: Case Report
Authors: Martínez José Dario , Franco Rodolfo , Sáenz Luis Manuel , Alvarado Americo Guadalupe , García José Antonio , Delgado Sergio Máximo , Ionescu Marius-Anton , Busilă Camelia , Tatu Alin Laurentiu
Published: November 2023

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a drug reaction commonly related to eosinophilia, from uncertain epidemiology, and without consensus for diagnosis and treatment globally. It presents a great challenge in its management and is characterized by fever, lymphadenopathy, skin rash, and multisystemic involvement. An aggressive and difficult-to-manage clinical case is presented in a 50-year-old man with chronic kidney disease due to diabetes mellitus type 2 and systemic arterial hypertension, who developed an unusual variant similar to DRESS and Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) overlap secondary to allopurinol, with skin manifestations without eosinophilia, but fulfilling clinical and laboratory criteria for DRESS and SJS syndrome.
Performance Analysis of Additively Manufactured Hydraulic Check Valves with Different Postprocessing
Authors: Klimek Agnieszka , Kluczyński Janusz , Łuszczek Jakub
Published: November 2023

Due to the need to use very precise manufacturing processes, hydraulic applications are one of the most demanding parts in production. Such a feature requires using molded and properly machined parts. On the other hand, such an approach makes hydraulic parts very heavy and requires the use of large amounts of material. One of the most promising manufacturing technologies that could be a real alternative to hydraulic parts production is additive manufacturing (AM). This paper aims to study how the AM process affects the performance properties of the as-built state, and investigate changes after different types of postprocessing in the case of hydraulic check valves. Based on the obtained results, using proper postprocessing is a crucial feature of obtaining check valves that perform their functions in a hydraulic system. In as-built parts, the surface roughness of the valve seats significantly exceeds the acceptable range (almost nine times—from 4.01 µm to 33.92 µm). The influence of the surface roughness of the valve seats was verified via opening pressure and internal leakage tests based on ISO standards. The opening pressures in all tested samples were similar to those in the conventionally made counterparts, but in the case of internal leakage only a fully finished AM valve revealed promising results. The obtained results could be useful for various enterprises that are seeking weight reduction possibilities for their low-volume manufactured products.
Long-Term Shrinkage Measurements on Large-Scale Specimens Exposed to Real Environmental Conditions
Authors: Bachofner Wolfgang , Suza Dominik , Müller Harald S. , Kollegger Johann
Published: November 2023

This article presents an experimental testing campaign on large-scale concrete specimens with cross-sectional areas of up to 1 m2 and a specimen length of 3 m. The primary goal of the testing campaign was to study the shrinkage behaviour of large-scale specimens exposed to real environmental conditions. Large-scale prismatic concrete specimens were equipped with vibrating wire strain gauges to monitor the strain evolution inside the specimens. To analyse the shrinkage behaviour of the specimens, the thermal strain had to be deducted from the measured strain. To study the influence of seasonal environmental conditions, different specimen production dates (in summer and winter) were examined. The measured shrinkage strains of the large-scale specimens are compared with the results of shrinkage models developed by two engineering entities (fib (Fédération Internationale du Béton) and RILEM (International Union of Laboratories and Experts in Construction, Materials, Systems and Structures)). The comparison shows a poor agreement of the measurements with the models, even though the results from the model for small specimens tested in the laboratory under constant environmental condition agree well with the experimental results. This leads to the conclusion that the poor agreement between the measurements and the shrinkage models must be due to the seasonally changing environmental conditions. The comparison of the results from specimens with different production dates shows that different shrinkage behaviour occurs, especially in the first year of measurements.
Mechanisms of Heat-Treatment-Induced Cracking in Additively Manufactured IN738 Alloy
Authors: Miao Kesong , Ding Ziyi , Li Rengeng , Ji Xia , Duan Xiutao , Yao Rui , Chen Peng , Wu Hao
Published: November 2023

The present study conducts a comprehensive study on heat-treatment-induced cracking of Inconel 738 (IN738) alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersion spectrum (EDS), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The results indicate that the macroscopic crack is dominantly triggered by the strain-age cracking mechanism and propagates along grain boundaries. The initiation of cracking is facilitated by the superimposition of residual stress induced by the LPBF process and contraction stress induced by precipitation, while the reopening of compress pores at grain boundaries weakens the grain boundaries and provides fast channels for cracking. These results revealed the coupling effects in triggering heat-treatment-induced cracking, offering a fundamental guideline for crack control during heat treatment of additively manufactured IN738 alloy.
In Vitro Analysis of the Removability of Fractured Prosthetic Screws within Endosseous Implants Using Conventional and Mechanical Techniques
Authors: Senent-Vicente Gisela , Baixauli-López Mar , González-Angulo Eva , Fernández-Bravo Luisa , Zubizarreta-Macho Álvaro , Gómez-Polo Miguel , Selva-Otaolaurruchi Eduardo J. , Agustín-Panadero Rubén
Published: November 2023

Statement of problem: The extraction of fractured abutment screws can be a difficult challenge to overcome. Purpose: To compare the removal capacity, dental implant connection damage, and time required to remove the fractured abutment screws between three drilling techniques and a conventional method. Materials and methods: A total of 180 prefabricated screw-retained abutments were intentionally fractured in internal connection dental implants after being subjected to a cyclic load and a static compression load. Afterwards, three operators randomly removed the fractured abutment screws with the following drilling techniques and a conventional method: A: a conventional technique using an exploration probe and ultrasonic appliance (n = 45), Rhein83® (n = 45); B: Sanhigia® (n = 45); C: Phibo® (n = 45). Two-way ANOVA models were estimated to evaluate the mean time according to the method and operator used. Results: The probability of removal of the screws with mobility was twelve times higher than that of the screws without mobility (OR = 12.4; p < 0.001). The success rate according to the operators did not show statistically significant differences (p = 0.371). The location of the fractured screw did not affect removal success (p = 0.530). The internal thread of the implant was affected after the removal process in 9.8% of the cases. The mean extraction time was 3.17 ± 2.52 min. The Rhein83® method showed a success rate of 84.4%, followed by the Phibo® and conventional methods (71.1%) and the Sanhigia® method (46.7%). Conclusions: The Rhein83® drilling technique increases the removal probability of fractured abutment screws. The initial mobility of the fragment is also a significant factor in the removal success.
Simulation of the Influence of the Radial Graded Porosity Distribution on Elastic Modulus of γ/β Phase Ti-Based Alloy Foams for Bone Implant
Authors: Aguilar Claudio , Alfonso Ismelí , González Daniel , Pio Edgar , Neves Guilherme Oliveira , De Barbieri Flavio , Sancy Mamie , Muñoz Lisa
Published: November 2023

This research aims to examine how a radial graded porosity distribution affects the elastic modulus by conducting simulations on Ti-based alloy foams with face-centered cubic and body-centered cubic crystal structures. Four types of foams were analyzed; commercially pure-Ti, Ti-13Ta-6Mn (TTM), Ti-13Ta-(TT) and Ti-13Ta-6Sn (TTS), (all in at.%). Four radial graded porosity distribution configurations were modeled and simulated using the finite element analysis (FEA). The radial graded porosity distribution configurations were generated using a Material Designer (Ansys) with a pore range of 200 to 600 μm. These radial graded porosity distributions had average porosity values of 0, 20, 30 and 40%. The consolidated samples that were obtained through a powder metallurgy technique in two step samples were synthesized using a powder metallurgy technique, with the elastic moduli values of the aforementioned Ti based alloys being measured by ultrasound using ~110, ~69, ~61 and ~65 GPa, respectively. The results showed that the modulus decreased as a function of porosity level in all simulated materials. The TTM, TT and TTS foams, with average porosities of 20, 30 and 40%, exhibited an modulus smaller than 30 GPa, which is a requirement to be used as a biomaterial in human bones. The TT foams showed the lowest modulus when compared to the other foams. Finally, certain theoretical models were used to obtain the modulus, the best being; the Gibson–Ashby model (α = 1 and n = 2.5) for the cp-Ti foams and Knudsen–Spriggs model (b = 3.06) for the TTM, TT and TTS foams.
Mercury Chalcogenide Colloidal Quantum Dots for Infrared Photodetectors
Authors: Hao Qun , Ma Haifei , Xing Xida , Tang Xin , Wei Zhipeng , Zhao Xue , Chen Menglu
Published: November 2023

In recent years, mercury chalcogenide colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) have attracted widespread research interest due to their unique electronic structure and optical properties. Mercury chalcogenide CQDs demonstrate an exceptionally broad spectrum and tunable light response across the short-wave to long-wave infrared spectrum. Photodetectors based on mercury chalcogenide CQDs have attracted considerable attention due to their advantages, including solution processability, low manufacturing costs, and excellent compatibility with silicon substrates, which offers significant potential for applications in infrared detection and imaging. However, practical applications of mercury-chalcogenide-CQD-based photodetectors encounter several challenges, including material stability, morphology control, surface modification, and passivation issues. These challenges act as bottlenecks in further advancing the technology. This review article delves into three types of materials, providing detailed insights into the synthesis methods, control of physical properties, and device engineering aspects of mercury-chalcogenide-CQD-based infrared photodetectors. This systematic review aids researchers in gaining a better understanding of the current state of research and provides clear directions for future investigations.
Optimal Sailing Speeds and Time Windows in Inland Water Transportation Operations Management: Mathematical Models and Applications
Authors: Wang Haoqing , Liu Yuan , Jin Yong , Wang Shuaian
Published: November 2023

Inland waterway transportation plays a pivotal role in advancing economic development and nurturing sustainable progress. It serves as a vital conduit linking communities, industries, and markets, thereby facilitating the seamless flow of essential commodities and fostering regional integration. However, in today’s era, marked by a resolute commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, inland shipping confronts formidable challenges, particularly pertaining to emission pollution and the escalating costs of fuel. These challenges represent significant impediments to the pursuit of environmentally conscious and sustainable growth by shipping companies. This research endeavor is geared towards the creation of a mathematical model that takes into account various factors, including the types of waterways, temporal constraints, and punctual arrival at the port of discharge. The primary objective is to empower shipping companies to make informed decisions about optimal sailing speeds and the most opportune time windows for entering one-way waterway segments. This, in turn, leads to reductions in fuel costs and waiting times for shipping companies, all while achieving cost minimization and mitigating emissions issues in inland waterway transportation. Ultimately, this research advances the cause of green and sustainable development in the inland waterway shipping sector. Specifically, this study focuses on routes that involve the dynamic transition between one-way and two-way segments. To accomplish this, an integer programming (IP) model is proposed to meticulously analyze the ideal sailing speed for each segment of the route and determine the optimal windows for accessing single-direction channels, thus representing a multistage decision-making process. Meanwhile, the model’s reliability is substantiated through a rigorous comparative assessment against three benchmark strategies (EAS, LAS, and MAS). In our experiments, the optimization model yielded a total cost for the entire inland waterway amounting to $80,626.20. This figure stands below the total costs of $87,118.14 under the EAS strategy and $83,494.70 under the MAS strategy (the LAS strategy failed to meet the port of discharge deadline), thereby conclusively validating its ability to guide vessels to their port of discharge within prescribed schedules, all while reducing overall operational costs and promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible practices.
Stock Selection Using Machine Learning Based on Financial Ratios
Authors: Tsai Pei-Fen , Gao Cheng-Han , Yuan Shyan-Ming
Published: November 2023

Stock prediction has garnered considerable attention among investors, with a recent focus on the application of machine learning techniques to enhance predictive accuracy. Prior research has established the effectiveness of machine learning in forecasting stock market trends, irrespective of the analytical approach employed, be it technical, fundamental, or sentiment analysis. In the context of fiscal year-end selection, the decision may initially seem straightforward, with December 31 being the apparent choice, as discussed by B. Kamp in 2002. The primary argument for a uniform fiscal year-end centers around comparability. When assessing the financial performance of two firms with differing fiscal year-ends, substantial shifts in the business environment during non-overlapping periods can impede meaningful comparisons. Moreover, when two firms merge, the need to synchronize their annual reporting often results in shorter or longer fiscal years, complicating time series analysis. In the US S&P stock market, misaligned fiscal years lead to variations in report publication dates across different industries and market segments. Since the financial reporting dates of US S&P companies are determined independently by each listed entity, relying solely on these dates for investment decisions may prove less than entirely reliable and impact the accuracy of return prediction models. Hence, our interest lies in the synchronized fiscal year of the TW stock market, leveraging machine learning models for fundamental analysis to forecast returns. We employed four machine learning models: Random Forest (RF), Feedforward Neural Network (FNN), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), and Financial Graph Attention Network (FinGAT). We crafted portfolios by selecting stocks with higher predicted returns using these machine learning models. These portfolios outperformed the TW50 index benchmarks in the Taiwan stock market, demonstrating superior returns and portfolio scores. Our study’s findings underscore the advantages of using aligned financial ratios for predicting the top 20 high-return stocks in a mid-to-long-term investment context, delivering over 50% excess returns across the four models while maintaining lower risk profiles. Using the top 10 high-return stocks produced over 100% relative returns with an acceptable level of risk, highlighting the effectiveness of employing machine learning techniques based on financial ratios for stock prediction.
Influence of Mo Content on the Precipitation Behavior of 13Ni Maraging Ultra-High Strength Steels
Authors: da Fonseca Daniela P. M. , Altoé Maria Virginia P. , Archanjo Braulio S. , Annese Emilia , Padilha Angelo F.
Published: November 2023

This study offers valuable insights into the precipitation behavior of 13Ni maraging steels, emphasizing the role of molybdenum content in their microstructure, strengthening, and precipitate evolution. Precipitate morphology and crystallography were examined using a combination of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and selected area electron diffraction. Strengthening mechanisms were assessed through Vickers hardness measurements. All the examined samples exhibited a lath martensite microstructure and displayed an increasing hardness over the aging time. The molybdenum content not only influenced the presence of retained austenite in the initial microstructure but also affected the type of precipitates formed during the early aging stages. Initially, Ni3Mo precipitates were formed, succeeded by the formation of more stable Fe2(Mo,Ti) Laves precipitates. The ultra-high strength of 13Ni maraging steels arises from the combination of the precipitate type and size distribution. The base composition of 13Ni maraging steels achieved a peak hardness of 798 HV1 through the precipitation of Laves Fe2(Mo,Ti) phases ranging from 3 to 14 nm in diameter.
The Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation of Aluminum Using Microsecond-Range DC Pulsing
Authors: Mojsilović Kristina , Stojadinović Stevan , Vasilić Rastko
Published: November 2023

This manuscript presents the results of our recent work focused on the plasma electrolytic oxidation of aluminum in a sodium tungstate solution using a microsecond-range pulsed DC signal. DC pulses of 50, 300 and 900 μs were followed by 5- and 25-times longer pauses between the pulses, showing the effect of the pulse duration and duty cycle on the morphological, phase and chemical properties of formed oxide coatings. It is shown that all coatings are partially crystalline with gamma-alumina, WO3 and metallic W phases present in formed PEO coatings. A higher duty cycle value results in the higher crystallization of the obtained PEO coatings. Although the chemical composition of the obtained coatings is not very sensitive to processing parameters, their roughness and porosity change significantly, as well as their thickness. The photocatalytic activity and photoluminescence properties of the obtained coatings are dependent on their morphology and chemical composition, i.e., on the processing time. The highest photoactivity and photoluminescence intensity is observed for the coating formed with ton = 300 μs and toff = 25 ton. A comparable application potential is found for the sample processed with ton = 50 μs and toff = 25 ton, which requires considerably less energy for PEO processing.
Synthesis and Catalytic Degradation of PEF, ENR, and CIP by g-C3N4/TCNQ/Eu Composite
Authors: Chen Hongyue , Geng Jianxin , Shen Jinghui , Shi Qi , Lv Jingxue , Lv Yuguang , Song Chaoyu
Published: November 2023

By using melamine as a precursor for the copolymerization process, g-C3N4 and g-C3N4/TCNQ/Eu complexes with various amounts of doping were created. These complexes were then examined using XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, XPS, PL, UV-vis, and I-T. The degradation rates of pefloxacin (PEF), enrofloxacin (ENR), and ciprofloxacin (CIP) were 91.1%, 90.8%, and 93.2% under visible light (λ > 550 nm). The photocatalytic performance of the composite was analyzed, and the best effect was obtained for CIP photocatalysis when Eu doping was 3 mg at 20 °C and pH 7. Kinetic analysis showed that there was a linear relationship between the sample and the photocatalytic time, and the degradation rate was about 5 times that of g-C3N4. The cyclic stability of the g-C3N4/TCNQ/Eu composite sample was found to be good through repeated experiments. UPLC-MS visualizes the degradation process of CIP. The extremely low stability of piperazine ring induced subsequent degradation, followed by the fracture of quinolone ring promoting the complete decomposition of CIP.
Exploring Alternative Treatment Choices for Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Strains of Helicobacter pylori in Mongolia
Authors: Khangai Ayush , Saruuljavkhlan Batsaikhan , Azzaya Dashdorj , Gantuya Boldbaatar , Oyuntsetseg Khasag , Akada Junko , Matsumoto Takashi , Yamaoka Yoshio
Published: November 2023

Helicobacter pylori is a pathogen related to severe diseases such as gastric cancer; because of rising antimicrobial-resistant strains, failure to eradicate H. pylori with antibiotics has increased worldwide. Multidrug-resistant H. pylori and gastric cancer is common in Mongolia; therefore, we aimed to explore alternative antimicrobial treatments and the genomes of resistant strains in this country. A total of 361 H. pylori strains isolated from patients in Mongolia were considered. Minimal inhibitory concentrations for two fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin and moxifloxacin), rifabutin, and furazolidone were determined via two-fold agar dilution. Genomic mutations in antibiotic-resistant strains were identified by next-generation sequencing using the Illumina Miseq platform and compared with genes from a reference H. pylori strain (26695). The resistance rate of H. pylori strains to quinolones was high (44% to ciprofloxacin and 42% to moxifloxacin), and resistance to rifabutin was low (0.5%); none were resistant to furazolidone. Most quinolone-resistant strains possessed gyrA gene mutations causing amino acid changes (e.g., N87K, A88P, and D91G/Y/N). While one rifabutin-resistant strain had amino acid-substituting mutations in rpoB (D530N and R701C), the other had three novel rpoB mutations; both rifabutin-resistant strains were sensitive to furazolidone. Overall, our findings suggest that rifabutin and/or furazolidone may be an alternative, effective H. pylori treatment in patients who have failed to respond to other treatment regimens.
A Photoelectrochemical Sensor Based on DNA Bio-Dots-Induced Aggregation of AuNPs for Methionine Detection
Authors: Luo Chen , Chen Xiaoxiao , Li Pu , Huang Chaobiao
Published: November 2023

Based on DNA bio-dots-induced aggregation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), a methionine (Met) photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor with CS–GSH–CuNCs/TiO2 NPs as the photoelectric conversion element and AuNPs as the specific recognition element was constructed. First, a TiO2 NPs/ITO electrode and CS–GSH–CuNCs were prepared, and then the CS–GSH–CuNCs/TiO2 NPs/ITO photosensitive electrode was obtained by self-assembly. Next, DNA bio-dots were modified to the upper surface of the electrode using a coupling reaction to assemble the DNA bio-dots/CS–GSH–CuNCs/TiO2 NPs electrode. Amino-rich DNA bio-dots were used to induce the aggregation of AuNPs on the electrode surface via Au–N interactions and prepare the AuNPs/DNA bio-dots/CS–GSH–CuNCs/TiO2 NPs electrode. Due to the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between CS–GSH–CuNCs and AuNPs, the complexation chance of electron-hole (e−-h+) pair in CS–GSH–CuNCs increased, which, in turn, led to a decrease in photocurrent intensity. When Met was present, AuNPs aggregated on the electrode surface were shed and bound to Met since the Au–S interaction is stronger than the Au–N interaction, resulting in the recovery of the photocurrent signal. Under optimal conditions, the photocurrent intensity of the PEC sensor showed good linearity with the logarithm of Met concentration in the range of 25.0 nmol/L–10.0 μmol/L with the limit of detection (LOD) of 5.1 nmol/L (S/N = 3, n = 10).
Methylglyoxal in Cardiometabolic Disorders: Routes Leading to Pathology Counterbalanced by Treatment Strategies
Authors: Berdowska Izabela , Matusiewicz Małgorzata , Fecka Izabela
Published: November 2023

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is the major compound belonging to reactive carbonyl species (RCS) responsible for the generation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Its upregulation, followed by deleterious effects at the cellular and systemic levels, is associated with metabolic disturbances (hyperglycemia/hyperinsulinemia/insulin resistance/hyperlipidemia/inflammatory processes/carbonyl stress/oxidative stress/hypoxia). Therefore, it is implicated in a variety of disorders, including metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. In this review, an interplay between pathways leading to MGO generation and scavenging is addressed in regard to this system’s impairment in pathology. The issues associated with mechanistic MGO involvement in pathological processes, as well as the discussion on its possible causative role in cardiometabolic diseases, are enclosed. Finally, the main strategies aimed at MGO and its AGEs downregulation with respect to cardiometabolic disorders treatment are addressed. Potential glycation inhibitors and MGO scavengers are discussed, as well as the mechanisms of their action.
SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Mutations Found in Switzerland Disrupt N-Gene Amplification in Commonly Used Multiplex RT-PCR Assay
Authors: Hilti Dominique , Wehrli Faina , Roditscheff Anna , Risch Martin , Risch Lorenz , Egli Adrian , Bodmer Thomas , Wohlwend Nadia
Published: November 2023

At the end of 2021, we observed an increase in N-gene target failures (NGTF) with the TaqPathTM COVID-19 CE-IVD RT-PCR Kit from Thermo Fisher Scientific (TaqPath). We subsequently used whole-genome sequencing (Oxford Nanopore Technology) to identify potential issues with N-gene PCR efficacy. Among 168,101 positive samples with a cycle threshold (CT) value <30 from August 2021 to May 2022, 194 specimens without N-gene amplification by PCR were identified (0.12%). Most NGTF samples originated from a wave of infection attributable to the Delta variant (B.1.617.2) and its sublineages. Sequencing revealed the nucleotide substitution G28922T (A217S) in 151 samples (88.8%). The substitution G215C, a hallmark mutation for Delta lineages, was concurrently present in all of these samples. Ten samples (5.9%) carried the deletion 28,913–28,918 (del214/215), eight samples (4.7%) the deletion 28,913–28,915 (del214) and one sample (0.6%) the deletion 28,892–28,930 (del207–219). Samples showing intact N-gene amplification by PCR lacked these specific mutations, but delayed-type amplification (i.e., partial or pNGTF) was attributable to the exclusive presence of A217S. As the N gene is a common target in many RT-PCR methods for SARS-CoV-2, an in-depth analysis of single-target failures using a combination with viral whole genome sequencing may allow for the identification of diagnostic flaws and eventual new variants.
The Clinical Significance of Tonsillar Actinomyces in Histopathological Samples after Tonsillectomy
Authors: Zięba Natalia , Miśkiewicz-Orczyk Katarzyna , Misiołek Maciej , Ścierski Wojciech
Published: November 2023

Background: Actinomyces is a genus of Gram-positive anaerobic or microaerophilic bacteria with a branched filamentous shape. Their presence in tonsil tissue is usually determined by histopathological examination. In the crypts of removed tonsils, they have a prevalence ranging from 0.8% to 61.6%. The role of Actinomyces in diseases of the palatine tonsils is not clearly defined. The aim of the study was to determine the importance of Actinomyces in the pathology of palatine tonsils and to assess the impact of these bacteria on the clinical data. Methods: the retrospective analysis of the histopathological findings of patients undergoing tonsillectomy in our hospital from January 2017 to the end of December 2019 was performed in terms of the occurrence of Actinomyces. The data were collected based on the medical history. The study included 481 patients aged 3–82 years. From the study group, 100 adult patients were randomly selected, and a telephone survey was conducted. The questions included the co-occurrence of bronchial asthma, halitosis, tonsilloliths, and cigarette smoking. The questions were related to the complications following tonsillectomy and the severity of postoperative pain. Existence of a relationship was investigated between occurrence of tonsillar Actinomyces and age, sex, body mass index, and medical condition (obstructive sleep apnea, chronic palatine tonsillitis), respectively. The size of the removed tonsils was assessed and compared depending on the presence of the bacteria. Results: patients aged 18 years and older had a higher probability of presenting Actinomyces. The estimated odds ratio for the presence of the bacteria per year of age was 1.023 [1.007, 1.041]. No statistically significant results were found for the other variables. The co-occurrence of the bacteria and halitosis was close to statistical significance (p = 0.064). Conclusions: multivariate analysis of the role of Actinomyces in tonsillar pathology showed that these microorganisms should be considered saprophytes of the oropharyngeal microflora that had no significant relationship with the pathology of palatine tonsils. Further studies on their influence on halitosis are warranted.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Group A and B Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs Used in Treatment of Rifampicin-Resistant Tuberculosis during Pregnancy and Post-Partum: A Narrative Review
Authors: Hughes Jennifer
Published: November 2023

Recommendations for treatment of rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (RR-TB) during pregnancy and post-partum now include Group A and B antituberculosis drugs. While pharmacokinetic data for most of these drugs among adults receiving treatment for RR-TB are limited, the data from pregnant patients and their infants are extremely scarce. Existing data suggest that fluoroquinolones, bedaquiline, clofazimine and terizidone may be used safely in pregnancy. Pharmacokinetic exposures, particularly between trimesters, are potentially sub-optimal; however, there is currently no evidence to support dose adjustment during pregnancy. Linezolid poses a potentially serious toxicity risk, particularly as exposures appear to be high in the later stages of pregnancy and post-partum following extended use, but this should be considered alongside the benefits of this extremely effective drug in the treatment of this life-threatening disease. While plenty of questions remain regarding the exposure to Group A and B antituberculosis drugs through breastmilk, existing literature suggests minimal harm to the breastfed infant. Pregnant patients and their infants should be included in therapeutic trials and pharmacokinetic studies of effective antituberculosis drugs.
Current Understanding of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin-Mediated Trained Immunity and Its Perspectives for Controlling Intracellular Infections
Authors: de Araujo Ana Carolina V. S. C. , Mambelli Fábio , Sanches Rodrigo O. , Marinho Fábio V. , Oliveira Sergio C.
Published: November 2023

The bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) is an attenuated bacterium derived from virulent Mycobacterium bovis. It is the only licensed vaccine used for preventing severe forms of tuberculosis in children. Besides its specific effects against tuberculosis, BCG administration is also associated with beneficial non-specific effects (NSEs) following heterologous stimuli in humans and mice. The NSEs from BCG could be related to both adaptive and innate immune responses. The latter is also known as trained immunity (TI), a recently described biological feature of innate cells that enables functional improvement based on metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming. Currently, the mechanisms related to BCG-mediated TI are the focus of intense research, but many gaps are still in need of elucidation. This review discusses the present understanding of TI induced by BCG, exploring signaling pathways that are crucial to a trained phenotype in hematopoietic stem cells and monocytes/macrophages lineage. It focuses on BCG-mediated TI mechanisms, including the metabolic-epigenetic axis and the inflammasome pathway in these cells against intracellular pathogens. Moreover, this study explores the TI in different immune cell types, its ability to protect against various intracellular infections, and the integration of trained innate memory with adaptive memory to shape next-generation vaccines.
Exceptional Points in a Non-Markovian Anti-Parity-Time Symmetric System
Authors: Wilkey Andrew , Joglekar Yogesh N. , Vemuri Gautam
Published: November 2023

By studying the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a non-Markovian anti parity-time (APT) symmetric system, we investigate the possibility of exceptional points (EPs) that may arise within it. Our work is motivated by a recently studied APT-symmetric experimental configuration consisting of a pair of time-delay coupled semiconductor lasers (SCLs). In such a system, a single time-delay represents the memory. The time-delayed coupling makes the system’s effective Hamiltonian infinite-dimensional and leads to novel features in the corresponding eigenvalues and eigenvectors. In particular, we demonstrate analytically and numerically that unlike a typical PT-symmetric dimer with zero time-delay, which has one second-order EP, our time-delayed system has parameter regimes that give rise to either one, two, or zero second-order EPs and one third-order EP, and one can select these regimes though a judicious choice of the time-delay and coupling.
Sloanea chocoana and S. pittieriana (Elaeocarpaceae): Chemical and Biological Studies of Ethanolic Extracts and Skincare Properties
Authors: Quintero-Rincón Patricia , Pino-Benítez Nayive , Galeano Elkin , Rojo-Uribe Cris , Mesa-Arango Ana C. , Flórez-Acosta Oscar A.
Published: November 2023

The Colombian Chocó is known for its rich biodiversity and to harbor plant species that are under-explored, including the genus Sloanea. This study aimed to analyze the chemical composition of derivatized ethanolic extracts from S. chocoana and S. pittieriana using BSTFA and TMCS through GC–MS, and to assess cell viability of immortalized human non-tumorigenic keratinocytes (HaCaT) and periodontal ligament fibroblast cells using crude extracts through MTS assay. Antioxidant and photoprotective properties were determined using DPPH assay and spectrophotometry. Antifungal activity of extracts against Candida species was developed following the CLSI standard M27, 4th ed. The sun protective factor (SPF) and UVA/UVB ratio values were calculated using the Mansur equation and the Boots star rating system. The critical wavelength (λc) was determined by calculating the integrated optical density curve’s area. The transmission of erythema and pigmentation was calculated through equations that use constants to calculate the flux of erythema and pigmentation. The GC–MS analysis identified 37 compounds for S. chocoana and 38 for S. pittieriana, including alkaloids, triterpenoids, and polyphenolics, among others. Both extracts exhibited proliferative effects on periodontal ligament fibroblasts, did not affect the viability of HaCaT cells, and showed excellent antioxidant activities (46.1% and 43.7%). Relevant antifungal activity was observed with S. pittieriana extract against Candida albicans (GM–MIC: 4 µg/mL), followed by C. auris and C. glabrata (GM–MIC: 32 µg/mL), while S. chocoana extract was active against C. albicans and C. glabrata (GM–MIC: 16 and 32 µg/mL, respectively). High SPF values (31.0 and 30.0), λc (393.98 and 337.81 nm), UVA/UVB ratio (1.5 and 1.2), and low percentage of transmission of erythema and pigmentation were determined for S. chocoana and S. pittieriana, respectively. Results showed that species of Sloanea constitute a promising alternative as ingredients for developing skincare products, and exhaustive studies are required for their sustainable uses.
Evaluating the Prebiotic Properties of Agar Oligosaccharides Obtained from the Red Alga Gracilaria fisheri via Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Praiboon Jantana , Chantorn Sudathip , Krangkratok Weerada , Choosuwan Pradtana , La-ongkham Orawan
Published: November 2023

Currently, the demand in the food market for oligosaccharides with biological activities is rapidly increasing. In this study, agar polysaccharides from Gracilaria fisheri were treated with β-agarases and hydrolyzed to agar oligosaccharides (AOSs). High-performance anion-exchange chromatography/pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), were employed to analyze the chemical characteristics of AOSs. The FT-IR spectra revealed that the enzymatic hydrolysis had no effect on specific functional groups in the AOS molecule. To investigate the prebiotic and pathogen inhibitory effects of AOSs, the influence of AOSs on the growth of three probiotic and two pathogenic bacteria was examined. The gastrointestinal tolerance of probiotics in the presence of AOSs was also investigated. AOSs enhanced the growth of Lactobacillus plantarum by 254%, and inhibited the growth of Bacillus cereus by 32.80%, and Escherichia coli by 58.94%. The highest survival rates of L. plantarum and L. acidophilus were maintained by AOSs in the presence of α-amylase and HCl under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. This study demonstrates that AOSs from G. fisheri exhibit potential as a prebiotic additive in foods.
Comparative Proteomic and Metabonomic Profiling of Buds with Different Flowering Capabilities Reveal Novel Regulatory Mechanisms of Flowering in Apple
Authors: Wang Shujin , Chen Xiaoping , Liu Sitong , Zhang Xiaochen , Li Yu , Shang Wei , Song Jiahui , Tian Jianwen , Li Xiaolong , Xing Libo
Published: November 2023

Flower bud formation in the apple tree life cycle is associated with multiple biological processes. To explore the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the protein and metabolite changes in buds with different flowering capabilities, axillary buds with no flowering (Ab), long-shoot buds with a low flowering rate (Lb), and spur buds with a higher flowering rate than the Lb (Sb) were analyzed using a Tandem Mass Tag™ proteomic technique in combination with nLC–MS/MS analyses. We identified 471 (88 up- and 383 down-regulated), 459 (176 up- and 283 down-regulated), and 548 (387 up- and 161 down-regulated) differentially expressed proteins in Sb vs. Lb, Sb vs. Ab, and Lb vs. Ab, respectively, that were involved in carbohydrate, amino acid and lipid transport, and metabolism. Additionally, 110 (91 increased and 19 decreased), 89 (71 increased and 18 decreased), and 99 (37 increased and 62 decreased) metabolites having significantly different levels were identified in Sb vs. Lb, Sb vs. Ab, and Lb vs. Ab, respectively. The identified metabolites were related to amino acids and their isoforms, sugars and polyols, and organic acids, and occurred at significantly greater levels in the Sbs than the other buds. Thus, flower bud formation is a complex process that involves various biochemical materials and signals, such as carbohydrates, amino acids and their isoforms, and organic acids.
Metabolic Mechanisms Underlying Heat and Drought Tolerance in Lentil Accessions: Implications for Stress Tolerance Breeding
Authors: El Haddad Noureddine , En-nahli Youness , Choukri Hasnae , Aloui Khawla , Mentag Rachid , El-Baouchi Adil , Hejjaoui Kamal , Rajendran Karthika , Smouni Abdelaziz , Maalouf Fouad , Kumar Shiv
Published: November 2023

Climate change has significantly exacerbated the effects of abiotic stresses, particularly high temperatures and drought stresses. This study aims to uncover the mechanisms underlying heat and drought tolerance in lentil accessions. To achieve this objective, twelve accessions were subjected to high-temperature stress (32/20 °C), while seven accessions underwent assessment under drought stress conditions (50% of field capacity) during the reproductive stage. Our findings revealed a significant increase in catalase activity across all accessions under both stress conditions, with ILL7814 and ILL7835 recording the highest accumulations of 10.18 and 9.33 under drought stress, respectively, and 14 µmol H2O2 mg protein−1 min−1 under high temperature. Similarly, ascorbate peroxidase significantly increased in all tolerant accessions due to high temperatures, with ILL6359, ILL7835, and ILL8029 accumulating the highest values with up 50 µmol ascorbate mg protein−1 min−1. In contrast, no significant increase was obtained for all accessions subjected to water stress, although the drought-tolerant accessions accumulated more APX activity (16.59 t to 25.08 µmol ascorbate mg protein−1 min−1) than the sensitive accessions. The accessions ILL6075, ILL7814, and ILL8029 significantly had the highest superoxide dismutase activity under high temperature, while ILL6363, ILL7814, and ILL7835 accumulated the highest values under drought stress, each with 22 to 25 units mg protein−1. Under both stress conditions, ILL7814 and ILL7835 recorded the highest contents in proline (38 to 45 µmol proline/g FW), total flavonoids (0.22 to 0.77 mg QE g−1 FW), total phenolics (7.50 to 8.79 mg GAE g−1 FW), total tannins (5.07 to 20 µg CE g−1 FW), and total antioxidant activity (60 to 70%). Further, ILL7814 and ILL6338 significantly recorded the highest total soluble sugar content under high temperature (71.57 and 74.24 mg g−1, respectively), while ILL7835 achieved the maximum concentration (125 mg g−1) under drought stress. The accessions ILL8029, ILL6104, and ILL7814 had the highest values of reducing sugar under high temperature with 0.62 to 0.79 mg g−1, whereas ILL6075, ILL6363, and ILL6362 accumulated the highest levels of this component under drought stress with 0.54 to 0.66 mg g−1. Overall, our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the metabolomic responses of lentil to drought and heat stresses, serving as a valuable reference for lentil stress tolerance breeding.
Recovery, Characterization, Functionality and Applications of Bioactive Compounds from Food-Plant Products and Their By-Products
Authors: Fontana Ariel
Published: November 2023

Sustainability in the food industry has been frequently linked to strategies that avoid, or at least minimize, the amount of by-products in food production [...]
Improvements in Mechanical and Shape-Memory Properties of Bio-Based Composite: Effects of Adding Carbon Fiber and Graphene Nanoparticles
Authors: Luengrojanakul Panuwat , Mora Phattharin , Bunyanuwat Kittipon , Jubsilp Chanchira , Rimdusit Sarawut
Published: November 2023

Shape-memory carbon fiber (CF) polymer composites reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) as a filler based on a bio-based V-fa/ECO copolymer were prepared at different graphene GnPs and CF mass fractions using the hand lay-up and hot-pressing methods. The obtained composite specimens were subjected to flexural, dynamic mechanical, and shape-memory analyses. The obtained results revealed that the flexural strength and modulus were improved by the addition of the GnPs and CF due to the improvement in the interfacial adhesion and fiber reinforcement with up to 3 wt.% GnPs and 60 wt.% CF. Additionally, appreciable improvements in the shape-memory performance were achieved with the addition of the GnPs, where values of up to 93% and 96% were recorded for the shape fixity and recovery, respectively. The shape-memory performance was affected by the fiber mass fraction, with the composites retaining the shape-memory effect albeit with a significant drop in performance at higher fiber mass fractions. Lastly, the specimens at 40 wt.% CF and 3 wt.% GnPs were determined to be the optimum compositions for the best performance of the bio-based SMP composite.
Special Issue “Smart Polymeric Films and Coatings for Food Packaging Applications”
Authors: Punia Bangar Sneh , Phimolsiripol Yuthana , Trif Monica
Published: November 2023

Smart polymeric films and coatings represent a significant step forward in packaging technology [...]