bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tackling a Post-COVID-19 Cholecystectomy Waiting List: Are We Meeting the Challenge?
Authors: Hamid Mohammed , Mirtorabi Neginsadat , Ghumman Abdul , Khalid Ayesha , Noormohamed Mohamed Saleem , Kapoulas Spyridon , Singhal Rishi , Nijjar Rajwinder , Richardson Martin , Wiggins Tom
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a tremendous backlog in elective surgical activity. Our hospital trust adopted an innovative approach to dealing with elective waiting times for cholecystectomy during the recovery phase from COVID-19. This study aimed to evaluate trends in overall cholecystectomy activity and the effect on waiting times. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was undertaken, investigating patients who received a cholecystectomy at a large United Kingdom hospital trust between February 2021 and February 2022. There were multiple phased strategies to tackle a 533-patient waiting list: private sector, multiple sites including emergency operating, mobile theatre, and seven-day working. The correlation of determination (R2) and Kruskal–Wallis analysis were used to evaluate trends in waiting times across the study period. Results: A total of 657 patients underwent a cholecystectomy. The median age was 49 years, 602 (91.6%) patients had an ASA of 1-2, and 494 (75.2%) were female. A total of 30 (4.6%) patients were listed due to gallstone pancreatitis, 380 (57.8%) for symptomatic cholelithiasis, and 228 (34.7%) for calculous cholecystitis. Median waiting times were reduced from 428 days (IQR 373–508) to 49 days (IQR 34–96), R2 = 0.654, p < 0.001. For pancreatitis specifically, waiting times had decreased from a median of 218 days (IQR 139–239) to 28 (IQR 24–40), R2 = 0.613, p < 0.001. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the methodology utilised to safely and effectively tackle the cholecystectomy waiting list locally. The approach utilised here has potential to be adapted to other units or similar operation types in order to reduce elective waiting times.
Regularities of Changes in the Structure of Different Phases of Deformed Zirconium Alloys as a Result of Raising the Annealing Temperature According to Texture Analysis Data
Authors: Isaenkova Margarita , Krymskaya Olga , Klyukova Kristina , Bogomolova Anastasya , Kozlov Ilya , Dzhumaev Pavel , Fesenko Vladimir , Svetogorov Roman
Published: October 2023

Based on the data of synchrotron and electron microscopic studies of deformed and annealed Russian zirconium alloys, the possibility of analyzing the structural-phase state and crystallographic texture of individual phases has been demonstrated. A qualitative and quantitative phase analysis of deformed and annealed tubes made of Zr-Nb-(Sn-Fe-O) alloys was carried out using diffraction patterns obtained with synchrotron radiation. The main α-Zr phase and the following additional phases: β-Nb, β-Zr, and the Laves phase (intermetallic compound Zr(Nb,Fe)2), were found in the alloys. According to the results of texture analysis of all phases present in the alloy, the mechanisms of plastic deformation, recrystallization, and phase transformations of the main and additional phases were established. It is shown that during plastic deformation of the Zr-1%Nb alloy, a dynamic phase transformation β-Nb→α-Zr→β-Zr is observed. It is established that during recrystallization, larger grains of α-Zr are misoriented relative to the deformed matrix by rotating the prismatic axes around the basal axes by 30°, while fine grains are improved by polygonization and maintain the orientation of the deformed matrix. Processes for changing the orientation of grains of additional phases as a result of high-temperature annealing are also considered.
Numerical Simulation and Temperature Modeling of Magnesium Alloy Strip Rolled by Heated Roll
Authors: Mei Ruibin , Chen Lihao , Bao Li , Li Changsheng , Liu Xianghua
Published: October 2023

A prediction model for the outlet temperature of magnesium alloy strips in the process of heated-roll rolling was established by using linear fitting and nonlinear regression methods. By inputting the rolling parameters into the model, the outlet temperature of the strip can be accurately predicted, which will then optimize and regulate the properties and microstructures of the magnesium alloys in the rolled form. To verify the reliability of the model, heat transfer experiments of the magnesium alloy rolled by heated rolls were carried out. The results show that under the same conditions, the actual outlet temperature measured experimentally matches well with the outlet temperature predicted by the model, and the relative error is kept within 10%. In the modeling process, Deform V11.0 software was used to simulate the thermal–mechanical behavior of the magnesium alloy rolled by the heated roll. In the process of analyzing the simulated heat transfer, it was found that the temperature rise of the surface and the core is divided into three identical stages: the slow rise, the fast rise, and the thermal equilibrium stages. In addition, the mechanical behavior of the rolling deformation zone was also analyzed, and the strip was subjected to direct heat transfer from the heated rolls during the hot rolling process so that the softening played a major role and the stress value gradually decreased from the middle of the deformation zone to the inlet end and the outlet end. This is so that it can be known that the process of being rolled by the heated rolls not only improves the rolling efficiency, but also ensures the deformation temperature and obtains fine grains.
Characterizing Families of Spectral Similarity Scores and Their Use Cases for Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Small Molecule Identification
Authors: Degnan David J. , Flores Javier E. , Brayfindley Eva R. , Paurus Vanessa L. , Webb-Robertson Bobbie-Jo M. , Clendinen Chaevien S. , Bramer Lisa M.
Published: October 2023

Metabolomics provides a unique snapshot into the world of small molecules and the complex biological processes that govern the human, animal, plant, and environmental ecosystems encapsulated by the One Health modeling framework. However, this “molecular snapshot” is only as informative as the number of metabolites confidently identified within it. The spectral similarity (SS) score is traditionally used to identify compound(s) in mass spectrometry approaches to metabolomics, where spectra are matched to reference libraries of candidate spectra. Unfortunately, there is little consensus on which of the dozens of available SS metrics should be used. This lack of standard SS score creates analytic uncertainty and potentially leads to issues in reproducibility, especially as these data are integrated across other domains. In this work, we use metabolomic spectral similarity as a case study to showcase the challenges in consistency within just one piece of the One Health framework that must be addressed to enable data science approaches for One Health problems. Here, using a large cohort of datasets comprising both standard and complex datasets with expert-verified truth annotations, we evaluated the effectiveness of 66 similarity metrics to delineate between correct matches (true positives) and incorrect matches (true negatives). We additionally characterize the families of these metrics to make informed recommendations for their use. Our results indicate that specific families of metrics (the Inner Product, Correlative, and Intersection families of scores) tend to perform better than others, with no single similarity metric performing optimally for all queried spectra. This work and its findings provide an empirically-based resource for researchers to use in their selection of similarity metrics for GC-MS identification, increasing scientific reproducibility through taking steps towards standardizing identification workflows.
Compound Control of Trajectory Errors in a Non-Resonant Piezo-Actuated Elliptical Vibration Cutting Device
Authors: Zhang Chen , Shu Zeliang , Yuan Yanjie , Gan Xiaoming , Yu Fuhang
Published: October 2023

To improve the machining quality of the non-resonant elliptical vibration cutting (EVC) device, a compound control method for trajectory error compensation is proposed in this paper. Firstly, by analyzing the working principle of non-resonant EVC device and considering the elliptical trajectory error caused by piezoelectric hysteresis, a dynamic PI (Prandtl-Ishlinskii) model relating to voltage change rate and acceleration was established to describe the piezoelectric hysteresis characteristics of EVC devices. Then, the parameters of the dynamic PI model were identified by using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Secondly, based on the dynamic PI model, a compound control method has been proposed in which the inverse dynamic PI model is used as the feedforward controller for the dynamic hysteresis compensation, while PID (proportion integration differentiation) feedback is used to improve the control accuracy. Finally, trajectory-tracking experiments have been conducted to verify the feasibility of the proposed compound control method.
Effect of Gold Nanoparticle Radiosensitization on DNA Damage Using a Quartz Tuning Fork Sensor
Authors: Alanazi Nadyah , Alanazi Reem , Algawati Mahmoud , Alzahrani Khaled , Alodhayb Abdullah N.
Published: October 2023

The development of sensor technology enables the creation of DNA-based biosensors for biomedical applications. Herein, a quartz tuning fork (QTF) sensing system was employed as a transducer for biomedical applications to address indirect DNA damage associated with gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and enhance the effectiveness of low-dose gamma radiation in radiation therapy. The experiment included two stages, namely during and after irradiation exposure; shift frequencies (Δf) were measured for 20 min in each stage. During the irradiation stage, the QTF response to DNA damage was investigated in a deionized aqueous solution with and without 100 nm GNPs at different concentrations (5, 10, 15, and 20 µg/mL). Upon exposure to gamma radiation for 20 min at a dose rate of 2.4 µGy/min, the ratio of Δf/ΔT indicates increased fork displacement frequencies with or without GNPs. Additionally, DNA damage associated with high and low GNP concentrations was evaluated using the change in the resonance frequency of the QTF. The results indicate that GNPs at 15 and 10 µg/mL were associated with high damage-enhancement ratios, while saturation occurred at 20 µg/mL. At 15 µg/mL, significant radiotherapy enhancement occurred compared to that at 10 µg/mL at 10 min after exposure. In the post-irradiation stage, the frequency considerably differed between 15 and 10 µg/mL. Finally, these results significantly depart from the experimental predictions in the post-radiation stage. They exhibited no appreciable direct effect on DNA repair owing to the absence of an environment that promotes DNA repair following irradiation. However, these findings demonstrate the potential of enhancing damage by combining GNP-mediated radiation sensitization and biosensor technology. Thus, QTF is recommended as a reliable measure of DNA damage to investigate the dose enhancement effect at various GNP concentrations.
UHPLC/MS-Based Untargeted Metabolomics Reveals Metabolic Characteristics of Clinical Strain of Mycoplasma bovis
Authors: Yang Fei , Yang Mengmeng , Si Duoduo , Sun Jialin , Liu Fan , Qi Yanrong , He Shenghu , Guo Yanan
Published: October 2023

Mycoplasma bovis is a global concern for the cattle industry owing to its high rates of infection and resulting morbidity, but its pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Metabolic pathways and characteristics of M. bovis clinical strain were elucidated by comparing the differential expression of metabolites between M. bovis clinical strain NX114 and M. bovis international reference strain PG45. Metabolites of M. bovis in the logarithmic stage were analyzed based on the non-targeted metabolomic technology of ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS). We found 596 metabolites with variable expression, of which, 190 had substantial differences. Differential metabolite analysis of M. bovis NX114 showed organic acids and their derivatives, nucleosides, and nucleotide analogs as important components. We found O-Phospho-L-serine (SEP) as a potential signature metabolite and indicator of pathogenicity. The difference in nucleic acid metabolites reflects the difference in growth phenotypes between both strains of M. bovis. According to KEGG enrichment analysis, the ABC transporter synthesis route had the most differential metabolites of the first 15 differential enrichment pathways. This study reflects the species-specific differences between two strains of M. bovis and further enriches our understanding of its metabolism, paving the way for further research into its pathogenesis.
Selenium Biofortification Effect on Glucosinolate Content of Brassica oleracea var. italic and Eruca vesicaria
Authors: Đulović Azra , Usanović Katarina , Kukoč Modun Lea , Blažević Ivica
Published: October 2023

Glucosinolates (GSLs) in different plant parts of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italic) and rocket (Eruca vesicaria) were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively before and after treatment with sodium selenate (2 and 5 mM), by their desulfo-counterparts using the UHPLC-DAD-MS/MS technique. Twelve GSLs were detected in broccoli (five aliphatic, one arylaliphatic, and six indolic), where 4-(methylsulfanyl)butyl GSL (glucoerucin) was the main one in the roots (4.88–9.89 µmol/g DW), 4-(methylsulfinyl)butyl GSL (glucoraphanin) in stems (0.44–1.11 µmol/g DW), and 4-hydroxyindol-3-ylmethyl GSL (4-hydroxyglucobrassicin) in leaves (0.51–0.60 µmol/g DW). No GSL containing selenium was detected in the treated broccoli. Ten GSLs were detected in rocket (seven aliphatic and three indolic), where 4-(methylsulfanyl)butyl GSL (glucoerucin) was the main one in the roots (4.50–20.59 µmol/g DW) and 4-methoxyindol-3-ylmethyl GSL (4-methoxyglucobrassicin) in the aerial part (0.57–5.69 µmol/g DW). As a result of induced stress by selenium fertilization, the total GSL content generally increased in both plants. In contrast to broccoli, the roots and the aerial part of the rocket treated with a high concentration of sodium selenate contained 4-(methylseleno)butyl GSL (glucoselenoerucin) (0.36–4.48 µmol/g DW). Although methionine-derived GSLs are the most abundant in both plants, the plants’ ability to tolerate selenate and its regulation by selenoglucosinolate production is species- and growth-stage-dependent.
Development of an HPLC-MS/MS Method for Chiral Separation and Quantitation of (R)- and (S)-Salbutamol and Their Sulfoconjugated Metabolites in Urine to Investigate Stereoselective Sulfonation
Authors: Harps Lukas Corbinian , Jendretzki Annika Lisa , Wolf Clemens Alexander , Girreser Ulrich , Wolber Gerhard , Parr Maria Kristina
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to develop and optimize a chiral HPLC-MS/MS method for quantitative analysis of (R)-/(S)-salbutamol and (R)-/(S)-salbutamol-4′-O-sulfate in human urine to allow for bioanalytical quantitation of the targeted analytes and investigations of stereoselectivity in the sulfonation pathway of human phase Ⅱ metabolism. For analytical method development, a systematic screening of columns and mobile phases to develop a separation via enantiomerically selective high performance liquid chromatography was performed. Electrospray ionization settings were optimized via multiple-step screening and a full factorial design-of-experiment. Both approaches were performed matrix-assisted and the predicted values were compared. The full factorial design was superior in terms of prediction power and knowledge generation. Performing a longitudinal excretion study in one healthy volunteer allowed for the calculation of excretion rates for all four targeted analytes. For this proof-of-concept, either racemic salbutamol or enantiopure levosalbutamol was administered perorally or via inhalation, respectively. A strong preference for sulfonation of (R)-salbutamol for inhalation and peroral application was found in in vivo experiments. In previous studies phenol sulfotransferase 1A3 was described to be mainly responsible for salbutamol sulfonation in humans. Thus, in vitro and in silico investigations of the stereoselectivity of sulfotransferase 1A3 complemented the study and confirmed these findings.
Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity of 2,6-Disubstituted Imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines Prepared by Suzuki Cross Coupling
Authors: Boček Pavlinac Ida , Dragić Mirna , Persoons Leentje , Daelemans Dirk , Hranjec Marijana
Published: October 2023

A series of novel 2,6-diphenyl substituted imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines was designed and synthesized using optimized Suzuki cross coupling to evaluate their biological activity in vitro. The conditions of the Suzuki coupling were evaluated and optimized using a model reaction. To study the influence of the substituents on the biological activity, we prepared N-unsubstituted and N-methyl substituted imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines with different substituents at the para position on the phenyl ring placed at position 6 on the heterocyclic scaffold. Antiproliferative activity was determined on diverse human cancer cell lines, and the selectivity of compounds with promising antiproliferative activity was determined on normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Pronounced antiproliferative activity was observed for p-hydroxy substituted derivatives 13 and 19, both displaying strong activity against most of the tested cell lines (IC50 1.45–4.25 μM). The unsubstituted N-methyl derivative 19 proved to be the most active derivative. There was a dose-dependent accumulation of G2/M arrested cells in several cancer cell lines after exposure to compound 19, implying a cell cycle-phase-specific mechanism of action. Additionally, the novel series of derivatives was evaluated for antiviral activity against a broad panel of viruses, yet the majority of tested compounds did not show antiviral activity.
Chemical Composition, Antibacterial Properties, and Anti-Enzymatic Effects of Eucalyptus Essential Oils Sourced from Tunisia
Authors: Khedhri Sana , Polito Flavio , Caputo Lucia , De Feo Vincenzo , Khamassi Marwa , Kochti Oumayama , Hamrouni Lamia , Mabrouk Yassine , Nazzaro Filomena , Fratianni Florinda , Amri Ismail
Published: October 2023

This study was conducted to examine the chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) from six Tunisian Eucalyptus species and to evaluate their anti-enzymatic and antibiofilm activities. The EOs were obtained through hydro-distillation of dried leaves and subsequently analyzed using GC/MS. The main class of compounds was constituted by oxygenated monoterpenes, particularly prominent in E. brevifolia (75.7%), E. lehmannii (72.8%), and E. woollsiana (67%). Anti-enzymatic activities against cholinesterases, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase were evaluated using spectrophotometric methods. Notably, the E. brevifolia, E. extensa, E. leptophylla, E. patellaris, and E. woollsiana EOs displayed potent acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition (IC50: 0.25–0.60 mg/mL), with E. lehmannii exhibiting lower activity (IC50: 1.2 mg/mL). E. leptophylla and E. brevifolia showed remarkable α-amylase inhibition (IC50: 0.88 mg/mL), while E. brevifolia and E. leptophylla significantly hindered α-glucosidase (IC50 < 30 mg/mL), distinguishing them from other EOs with limited effects. Additionally, the EOs were assessed for their anti-biofilm properties of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) and Gram-negative (Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) bacterial strains. The E. extensa EO demonstrated the main antibiofilm effect against E. coli and L. monocytogenes with an inhibition > 80% at 10 mg/mL. These findings could represent a basis for possible further use of Eucalyptus EOs in the treatment of human microbial infections and/or as a coadjutant in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s disease and/or diabetes mellitus.
A Nanofiber-Based Gas Diffusion Layer for Improved Performance in Air Cathode Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Massaglia Giulia , Serra Tommaso , Pirri Fabrizio Candido , Quaglio Marzia
Published: October 2023

This work investigates a new nanostructured gas diffusion layer (nano-GDL) to improve the performance of air cathode single-chamber microbial fuel cells (a-SCMFCs). The new nano-GDLs improve the direct oxygen reduction reaction by exploiting the best qualities of nanofibers from electrospinning in terms of high surface-area-to-volume ratio, high porosity, and laser-based processing to promote adhesion. By electrospinning, nano-GDLs were fabricated directly by collecting two nanofiber mats on the same carbon-based electrode, acting as the substrate. Each layer was designed with a specific function: water-resistant, oxygen-permeable polyvinylidene-difluoride (PVDF) nanofibers served as a barrier to prevent water-based electrolyte leakage, while an inner layer of cellulose nanofibers was added to promote oxygen diffusion towards the catalytic sites. The maximum current density obtained for a-SCMFCs with the new nano-GDLs is 132.2 ± 10.8 mA m−2, and it doubles the current density obtained with standard PTFE-based GDL (58.5 ± 2.4 mA m−2) used as reference material. The energy recovery (EF) factor, i.e., the ratio of the power output to the inner volume of the device, was then used to evaluate the overall performance of a-SCMFCs. a-SCMFCs with nano-GDL provided an EF value of 60.83 mJ m−3, one order of magnitude higher than the value of 3.92 mJ m−3 obtained with standard GDL.
Design and Characterization of pMyc/pMax Peptide-Coupled Gold Nanosystems for Targeting Myc in Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Longoria-García Samuel , Sánchez-Domínguez Celia N. , Sánchez-Domínguez Margarita , Delgado-Balderas Jesús R. , Islas-Cisneros José F. , Vidal-Gutiérrez Oscar , Gallardo-Blanco Hugo L.
Published: October 2023

Myc and Max are essential proteins in the development of prostate cancer. They act by dimerizing and binding to E-box sequences. Disrupting the Myc:Max heterodimer interaction or its binding to E-box sequences to interrupt gene transcription represent promising strategies for treating cancer. We designed novel pMyc and pMax peptides from reference sequences, and we evaluated their ability to bind specifically to E-box sequences using an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Then, we assembled nanosystems (NSs) by coupling pMyc and pMax peptides to AuNPs, and determined peptide conjugation using UV-Vis spectroscopy. After that, we characterized the NS to obtain the nanoparticle’s size, hydrodynamic diameter, and zeta potential. Finally, we evaluated hemocompatibility and cytotoxic effects in three different prostate adenocarcinoma cell lines (LNCaP, PC-3, and DU145) and a non-cancerous cell line (Vero CCL-81). EMSA results suggests peptide–nucleic acid interactions between the pMyc:pMax dimer and the E-box. The hemolysis test showed little hemolytic activity for the NS at the concentrations (5, 0.5, and 0.05 ng/µL) we evaluated. Cell viability assays showed NS cytotoxicity. Overall, results suggest that the NS with pMyc and pMax peptides might be suitable for further research regarding Myc-driven prostate adenocarcinomas.
The Impressive Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles: More than Redox?
Authors: Corsi Francesca , Deidda Tarquini Greta , Urbani Marta , Bejarano Ignacio , Traversa Enrico , Ghibelli Lina
Published: October 2023

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNPs) are biocompatible nanozymes exerting multifunctional biomimetic activities, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase, photolyase, and phosphatase. SOD- and catalase-mimesis depend on Ce3+/Ce4+ redox switch on nanoparticle surface, which allows scavenging the most noxious reactive oxygen species in a self-regenerating, energy-free manner. As oxidative stress plays pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders, CNPs have recently attracted attention as potential anti-inflammatory agents. A careful survey of the literature reveals that CNPs, alone or as constituents of implants and scaffolds, strongly contrast chronic inflammation (including neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases, liver steatosis, gastrointestinal disorders), infections, and trauma, thereby ameliorating/restoring organ function. By general consensus, CNPs inhibit inflammation cues while boosting the pro-resolving anti-inflammatory signaling pathways. The mechanism of CNPs’ anti-inflammatory effects has hardly been investigated, being rather deductively attributed to CNP-induced ROS scavenging. However, CNPs are multi-functional nanozymes that exert additional bioactivities independent from the Ce3+/Ce4+ redox switch, such as phosphatase activity, which could conceivably mediate some of the anti-inflammatory effects reported, suggesting that CNPs fight inflammation via pleiotropic actions. Since CNP anti-inflammatory activity is potentially a pharmacological breakthrough, it is important to precisely attribute the described effects to one or another of their nanozyme functions, thus achieving therapeutic credibility.
The Association between the EAT–Lancet Diet and Diabetes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lin Xiaoxiao , Wang Shuai , Huang Jinyu
Published: October 2023

Several studies have explored the association between diabetes and the EAT–Lancet diet. Thus, the objective of our study was to conduct a systematic review to analyze and summarize all clinical studies concerning the association between diabetes and the EAT–Lancet diet. We undertook a comprehensive search of the Embase, Cochrane, and PubMed databases up to 15 August 2023. All clinical studies concerning the association between diabetes and the EAT–Lancet diet were summarized and analyzed. In total, our systematic review included five studies of four prospective studies and one cross-sectional study, encompassing 259,315 participants. All the included studies were evaluated as high quality. The outcomes from all studies indicated that adherence to the EAT–Lancet diet was correlated with a reduced risk of diabetes. In conclusion, the EAT–Lancet diet may be an effective dietary intervention for diabetes. Nevertheless, the number of studies examining the association between diabetes and the EAT–Lancet diet is limited. Further high-quality studies are required to expand our understanding of the benefits of the EAT–Lancet diet for patients with diabetes.
Mental Health Component Scale Is Positively Associated with Riboflavin Intake in People with Central Obesity
Authors: Amerikanou Charalampia , Gioxari Aristea , Kleftaki Stamatia-Angeliki , Valsamidou Evdokia , Zeaki Antonia , Kaliora Andriana C.
Published: October 2023

Micronutrient deficiencies are a well-established fact in obesity. However, few studies exist on the relationship between micronutrient intake and mental health. In this study, we investigated the associations between daily intakes of vitamins and minerals and scoring items that measure mental health in people living with central obesity. One hundred males and females with central obesity and metabolic abnormalities were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical data were collected. Mental health statuses were assessed with validated questionnaires, and daily micronutrient intakes were assessed with food diaries and Nutritionist ProTM software v7.9. The mental component score (MCS-12) positively correlated with vitamin A (Rho = 0.249, p = 0.038), vitamin C (Rho = 0.293, p = 0.014), riboflavin (Rho = 0.264, p = 0.026), and folate (Rho = 0.238, p = 0.046). Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) correlated with sodium (Rho = 0.269, p = 0.026), and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale Revised (CESD-R) correlated with chromium (Rho = 0.313, p = 0.009). In the regression analysis, after potential confounders were adjusted for, only riboflavin was positively associated with the MCS-12 log (beta ± SD = 0.047 ± 0.023, p = 0.044). Our study provides evidence of the link between dietary riboflavin and mental health in people with obesity, and it highlights the importance of monitoring both nutritional status and mental health when managing obesity.
Roles of Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Shin Yoonhwa , Han Sunhee , Kwon Juhui , Ju Songhyun , Choi Tae , Kang Insug , Kim Sung
Published: October 2023

The gut microbiome is a diverse bacterial community in the human gastrointestinal tract that plays important roles in a variety of biological processes. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) are produced through fermentation of dietary fiber. Certain microbes in the gut are responsible for producing SCFAs such as acetate, propionate and butyrate. An imbalance in gut microbiome diversity can lead to metabolic disorders and inflammation-related diseases. Changes in SCFA levels and associated microbiota were observed in IBD, suggesting an association between SCFAs and disease. The gut microbiota and SCFAs affect reactive oxygen species (ROS) associated with IBD. Gut microbes and SCFAs are closely related to IBD, and it is important to study them further.
The Effects of Melatonin Supplementation on Professional Football Player Performance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Almendros-Ruiz Antonio , Lopez-Moro Alejandro , Conde-Pipò Javier , Santalla Alfredo , Requena Bernardo , Mariscal-Arcas Miguel
Published: October 2023

Background: Melatonin is a hormone that has shown anti-inflammatory actions, reduced oxidative stress, and has effects on physical performance, so the aim of this study was to review the effects of melatonin supplementation on the performance of professional soccer players. Methods: Critical and systematic review. Data were obtained by performing searches in the following bibliographic databases: Web of Science, MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. The terms used were “Soccer Athlete”, “Melatonin”, and “Soccer Performance”, using “Humans” as a filter. The search update was in May 2023. Results: Having applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight articles were selected out of 59 retrieved references. The dose of melatonin administered in the studies ranged between 5 and 8 mg. The outcomes showed a decrease in oxidative stress, muscle damage, and inflammatory markers in the melatonin-treated group. Conclusions: Exogenously administered melatonin seems to attenuate some of the effects derived from physical exercise, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and muscle damage, in professional football players, and since it has no potential adverse effects, it could be interesting to apply it in this population. However, the direct effects of melatonin supplementation on physical performance have not been demonstrated, so more research is needed on the intervention period and effective dose and with larger participant populations.
Are We Ready to Recommend Capsaicin for Disorders Other Than Neuropathic Pain?
Authors: Silva Janayne L. , Santos Elandia A. , Alvarez-Leite Jacqueline I.
Published: October 2023

Capsaicin, a lipophilic, volatile compound, is responsible for the pungent properties of chili peppers. In recent years, a significant increase in investigations into its properties has allowed the production of new formulations and the development of tools with biotechnological, diagnostic, and potential therapeutic applications. Most of these studies show beneficial effects, improving antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status, inducing thermogenesis, and reducing white adipose tissue. Other mechanisms, including reducing food intake and improving intestinal dysbiosis, are also described. In this way, the possible clinical application of such compound is expanding every year. This opinion article aims to provide a synthesis of recent findings regarding the mechanisms by which capsaicin participates in the control of non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia after Heart Transplantation: Two Case Reports and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Burzio Carlo , Balzani Eleonora , Corcione Silvia , Montrucchio Giorgia , Trompeo Anna Chiara , Brazzi Luca
Published: October 2023

Post-transplant Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PcP) is an uncommon but increasingly reported disease among solid organ transplantation (SOT) recipients, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although the introduction of PcP prophylaxis has reduced its overall incidence, its prevalence continues to be high, especially during the second year after transplant, the period following prophylaxis discontinuation. We recently described two cases of PcP occurring more than one year after heart transplantation (HT) in patients who were no longer receiving PcP prophylaxis according to the local protocol. In both cases, the disease was diagnosed following the diagnosis of a viral illness, resulting in a significantly increased risk for PcP. While current heart transplantation guidelines recommend Pneumocystis jirovecii prophylaxis for up to 6–12 months after transplantation, after that period they only suggest an extended prophylaxis regimen in high-risk patients. Recent studies have identified several new risk factors that may be linked to an increased risk of PcP infection, including medication regimens and patient characteristics. Similarly, the indication for PcP prophylaxis in non-HIV patients has been expanded in relation to the introduction of new medications and therapeutic regimens for immune-mediated diseases. In our experience, the first patient was successfully treated with non-invasive ventilation, while the second required tracheal intubation, invasive ventilation, and extracorporeal CO2 removal due to severe respiratory failure. The aim of this double case report is to review the current timing of PcP prophylaxis after HT, the specific potential risk factors for PcP after HT, and the determinants of a prompt diagnosis and therapeutic approach in critically ill patients. We will also present a possible proposal for future investigations on indications for long-term prophylaxis.
Comprehensive Study of Drug-Induced Pruritus Based on Adverse Drug Reaction Report Database
Authors: Nakao Yuriko , Asada Mizuho , Uesawa Yoshihiro
Published: October 2023

Drug-induced pruritus triggers a desire to scratch, thereby diminishing one’s quality of life. Certain instances of this phenomenon follow complex mechanisms of action that diverge from histamine-mediated pathways, known contributors to pruritus. However, investigations into the relationship between drugs and pruritus are limited. In this study, data mining techniques were employed to comprehensively analyze the characteristics of drugs linked to pruritus, using the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data. Reports linked to pruritus demonstrated noteworthy differences in gender, age, and weight when compared with non-pruritus cases. Among the leading candidates for drugs prompting pruritus were ophthalmic drugs, systemic antibacterials, contrast media, dermatological antifungals, and dermatological preparations. A principal component analysis showed that the second principal component served as an indicator for distinguishing between onsets at mucous membranes or the skin’s surface. Additionally, the third principal component functioned as an indicator for categorizing administration methods as either invasive or noninvasive. Furthermore, a hierarchical cluster analysis conducted on these obtained principal components revealed the potential for classifying drugs based on the site of pruritus onset and the method of drug administration. These findings contribute to the development of targeted prevention and treatment strategies for avoiding pruritus in clinical practice.
Uridine Diphosphate Glucose (UDP-G) Activates Oxidative Stress and Respiratory Burst in Isolated Neutrophils
Authors: Lairion Fabiana , Carbia Claudio , Chiesa Iris Maribel , Saporito-Magriña Christian , Borda Natalia , Lazarowski Alberto , Repetto Marisa Gabriela
Published: October 2023

The extracellular purinergic agonist uridine diphosphate glucose (UDP-G) activates chemotaxis of human neutrophils (PMN) and the recruitment of PMN at the lung level, via P2Y14 purinergic receptor signaling. This effect is similar to the activation of PMN with N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP), a mechanism that also triggers the production of superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide via the NADPH oxidase system. However, the effects of UDP-G on this system have not been studied. Defects in the intracellular phagocyte respiratory burst (RB) cause recurrent infections, immunodeficiency, and chronic and severe diseases in affected patients, often with sepsis and hypoxia. The extracellular activation of PMN by UDP-G could affect the RB and oxidative stress (OS) in situations of inflammation, infection and/or sepsis. The association of PMNs activation by UDP-G with OS and RB was studied. OS was evaluated by measuring spontaneous chemiluminescence (CL) of PMNs with a scintillation photon counter, and RB by measuring oxygen consumption with an oxygen Clark electrode at 37 °C, in non-stimulated cells and after activation (15 min) with lipopolysaccharides (LPS, 2 µg/mL), phorbol myristate acetate (PMA, 20 ng/mL), or UDP-G (100 μM). The stimulation index (SI) was calculated in order to establish the activation effect of the three agonists. After stimulation with LPS or PMA, the activated PMNs (0.1 × 106 cells/mL) showed an increase in CL (35%, p < 0.05 and 56%, p < 0.01, SI of 1.56 and 2.20, respectively). Contrariwise, the stimulation with UDP-G led to a decreased CL in a dose-dependent manner (60%, 25 μM, p < 0.05; 90%, 50–150 μM, p < 0.001). Nonetheless, despite the lack of oxidative damage, UDP-G triggered RB (SI 1.8) in a dose-dependent manner (38–50%, 100–200 μM, p < 0.0001). UDP-G is able to trigger NADPH oxidase activation in PMNs. Therefore, the prevention of OS and oxidative damage observed upon PMN stimulation with UDP-G indicates an antioxidant property of this molecule which is likely due to the activation of antioxidant defenses. Altogether, LPS and UDP-G have a synergistic effect, suggesting a key role in infection and/or sepsis.
Ag- but Not ZnO-Nanoparticles Disturb the Airway Epithelial Barrier at Subtoxic Concentrations
Authors: Moratin Helena , Thöle Anna , Lang Josephine , Ehret Kasemo Totta , Stöth Manuel , Hagen Rudolf , Scherzad Agmal , Hackenberg Stephan
Published: October 2023

Inhalation is considered to be the most relevant source of human exposure to nanoparticles (NPs); however, only a few investigations have addressed the influence of exposing the respiratory mucosal barrier to subcytotoxic doses. In the nasal respiratory epithelium, cells of the mucosa represent one of the first contact points of the human organism with airborne NPs. Disruption of the epithelial barrier by harmful materials can lead to inflammation in addition to potential intrinsic toxicity of the particles. The aim of this study was to investigate whether subtoxic concentrations of zinc oxide (ZnO)- and silver (Ag)-NPs have an influence on upper airway barrier integrity. Nasal epithelial cells from 17 donors were cultured at the air–liquid interface and exposed to ZnO- and Ag-NPs. Barrier function, quantified by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), decreased after treatment with 10 µg/mL Ag-NPs, but FITC-dextran permeability remained stable and no change in mRNA levels of tight junction proteins and E-cadherin was detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The results indicate that subtoxic concentrations of Ag-NPs may already induce damage of the upper airway epithelial barrier in vitro. The lack of similar disruption by ZnO-NPs of similar size suggests a specific effect by Ag-NPs.
A Simplified Volterra Equalizer Based on System Characteristics for Direct Modulation Laser (DML)-Based Intensity Modulation and Direct Detection (IM/DD) Transmission Systems
Authors: Feng Zhongshuai , Li Na , Li Wei , He Peili , Luo Ming , Hu Qianggao , Huang Liyan , Jiang Yi
Published: October 2023

The nonlinear Volterra equalizer has been proved to be able to solve the problem of nonlinear distortion, but it has high computational complexity and is difficult to implement. In this paper, a simplified second-order Volterra nonlinear equalizer designed for intensity modulation/direct detection systems based on direct modulated laser is proposed and demonstrated, taking into account the characteristics of the system. It has been proved that the received signal of direct modulation laser/direct detection system can be expressed in Volterra series form, but its form is too complex, and the device parameters should also be considered. We re-derived it and obtained a more concise form. At the same time, we proposed a method to simplify the second-order Volterra nonlinear equalizer without relying on device parameters. The performance of the proposed Volterra nonlinear equalizer is evaluated experimentally on a 56 Gb/s 4-ary pulse amplitude modulation link implemented by using a 1.55 µm direct modulation laser. The results show that, compared with the traditional Volterra nonlinear equalizer, the receiver sensitivity of the equalizer is only reduced by 0.2 dB at most, but the complexity can be reduced by 50%; compared with diagonally pruned Volterra nonlinear equalizers, the complexity of the equalizer is the same, but the reception sensitivity can be improved by 0.5 dB.
Identification of Crucial Genes and Regulatory Pathways in Alfalfa against Fusarium Root Rot
Authors: Wang Shengze , Han Haibin , Zhang Bo , Wang Le , Wu Jie , Chen Zhengqiang , Lin Kejian , Hao Jianjun , Jia Ruifang , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: October 2023

Fusarium root rot, caused by Fusarium spp. in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), adversely impacts alfalfa by diminishing plant quality and yield, resulting in substantial losses within the industry. The most effective strategy for controlling alfalfa Fusarium root rot is planting disease-resistant varieties. Therefore, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying alfalfa’s resistance to Fusarium root rot is imperative. In this study, we observed the infection process on alfalfa seedling roots infected by Fusarium acuminatum strain HM29-05, which is labeled with green fluorescent protein (GFP). Two alfalfa varieties, namely, the resistant ‘Kangsai’ and the susceptible ‘Zhongmu No. 1’, were examined to assess various physiological and biochemical activities at 0, 2, and 3 days post inoculation (dpi). Transcriptome sequencing of the inoculated resistant and susceptible alfalfa varieties were conducted, and the potential functions and signaling pathways of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed through gene ontology (GO) classification and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Meanwhile, a DEG co-expression network was constructed though the weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) algorithm. Our results revealed significant alterations in soluble sugar, soluble protein, and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in both the ‘Kangsai’ and ‘Zhongmu No. 1’ varieties following the inoculation of F. acuminatum. WGCNA analysis showed the involvement of various enzyme and transcription factor families related to plant growth and disease resistance, including cytochrome P450, MYB, ERF, NAC, and bZIP. These findings not only provided valuable data for further verification of gene functions but also served as a reference for the deeper explorations between plants and pathogens.
The Cytokinins BAP and 2-iP Modulate Different Molecular Mechanisms on Shoot Proliferation and Root Development in Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Authors: Cárdenas-Aquino María del Rosario , Camas-Reyes Alberto , Valencia-Lozano Eliana , López-Sánchez Lorena , Martínez-Antonio Agustino , Cabrera-Ponce José Luis
Published: October 2023

The known activities of cytokinins (CKs) are promoting shoot multiplication, root growth inhibition, and delaying senescence. 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) has been the most effective CK to induce shoot proliferation in cereal and grasses. Previously, we reported that in lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) micropropagation, BAP 10 µM induces high shoot proliferation, while the natural CK 6-(γ,γ-Dimethylallylamino)purine (2-iP) 10 µM shows less pronounced effects and developed rooting. To understand the molecular mechanisms involved, we perform a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network based on the genes of Brachypodium distachyon involved in shoot proliferation/repression, cell cycle, stem cell maintenance, auxin response factors, and CK signaling to analyze the molecular mechanisms in BAP versus 2-iP plants. A different pattern of gene expression was observed between BAP- versus 2-iP-treated plants. In shoots derived from BAP, we found upregulated genes that have already been demonstrated to be involved in de novo shoot proliferation development in several plant species; CK receptors (AHK3, ARR1), stem cell maintenance (STM, REV and CLV3), cell cycle regulation (CDKA-CYCD3 complex), as well as the auxin response factor (ARF5) and CK metabolism (CKX1). In contrast, in the 2-iP culture medium, there was an upregulation of genes involved in shoot repression (BRC1, MAX3), ARR4, a type A-response regulator (RR), and auxin metabolism (SHY2).
Identification of Morphogenesis-Related NDR Kinase Signaling Network and Its Regulation on Cold Tolerance in Maize
Authors: Tian Ran , Xie Sidi , Zhang Junjie , Liu Hanmei , Li Yangping , Hu Yufeng , Huang Yubi , Liu Yinghong
Published: October 2023

The MOR (Morphogenesis-related NDR kinase) signaling network, initially identified in yeast, exhibits evolutionary conservation across eukaryotes and plays indispensable roles in the normal growth and development of these organisms. However, the functional role of this network and its associated genes in maize (Zea mays) has remained elusive until now. In this study, we identified a total of 19 maize MOR signaling network genes, and subsequent co-expression analysis revealed that 12 of these genes exhibited stronger associations with each other, suggesting their potential collective regulation of maize growth and development. Further analysis revealed significant co-expression between genes involved in the MOR signaling network and several genes related to cold tolerance. All MOR signaling network genes exhibited significant co-expression with COLD1 (Chilling tolerance divergence1), a pivotal gene involved in the perception of cold stimuli, suggesting that COLD1 may directly transmit cold stress signals to MOR signaling network genes subsequent to the detection of a cold stimulus. The findings indicated that the MOR signaling network may play a crucial role in modulating cold tolerance in maize by establishing an intricate relationship with key cold tolerance genes, such as COLD1. Under low-temperature stress, the expression levels of certain MOR signaling network genes were influenced, with a significant up-regulation observed in Zm00001d010720 and a notable down-regulation observed in Zm00001d049496, indicating that cold stress regulated the MOR signaling network. We identified and analyzed a mutant of Zm00001d010720, which showed a higher sensitivity to cold stress, thereby implicating its involvement in the regulation of cold stress in maize. These findings suggested that the relevant components of the MOR signaling network are also conserved in maize and this signaling network plays a vital role in modulating the cold tolerance of maize. This study offered valuable genetic resources for enhancing the cold tolerance of maize.