bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Below Water Table Mining, Pit Lake Formation, and Management Considerations for the Pilbara Mining Region of Western Australia
Authors: McCullough Cherie D.
Published: October 2024

Located in northern Western Australia, the Pilbara is the highest productivity region for iron ore and other metal mining in Australia. As elsewhere, mine closure guidelines typically require post-closure landforms to be safe, stable, non-polluting and sustainable here in the long-term. I reviewed the primary literature, including international, national and state government guidelines and regional case studies for mine closure and related socio-environmental topics, to understand the key risks and management strategies needed to achieve these broad expectations for below water table (BWT) mining. Many BWT open cut mining projects will result in pit lakes in this region, many of which will be very large and will degrade in water quality with increasing salinisation over time. As an arid region, risks are dominated by alterations to hydrology and hydrogeology of largely unmodified natural waterways and freshwater aquifers. Although remote, social risks may also present, especially in terms of impacts to groundwater values. This remoteness also decreases the potential for realising practicable development of post-mining land uses for pit lakes. Explicitly considered risk-based decisions should determine closure outcomes for BWT voids, and when pit backfill to prevent pit lake formation will be warranted. However, maintaining an open pit lake or backfilling a void should also be considered against the balance of potential risks and opportunities.
Preparation and Photocatalytic Performance of In2O3/Bi2WO6 Type II Heterojunction Composite Materials
Authors: Zhang Xiuping , Qin Fengqiu , Zhong Yuanyuan , Xiao Tian , Yu Qiang , Zhu Xiaodong , Feng Wei , Qi Zhiyong
Published: October 2024

Bismuth-based photocatalytic materials have been widely used in the field of photocatalysis in recent years due to their unique layered structure. However, single bismuth-based photocatalytic materials are greatly limited in their photocatalytic performance due to their poor response to visible light and easy recombination of photogenerated charges. At present, constructing semiconductor heterojunctions is an effective modification method that improves quantum efficiency by promoting the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. In this study, the successful preparation of an In2O3/Bi2WO6 (In2O3/BWO) II-type semiconductor heterojunction composite material was achieved. XRD characterization was performed to conduct a phase analysis of the samples, SEM and TEM characterization for a morphology analysis of the samples, and DRS and XPS testing for optical property and elemental valence state analyses of the samples. In the II-type semiconductor junction system, photogenerated electrons (e−) on the In2O3 conduction band (CB) migrate to the BWO CB, while holes (h+) on the BWO valence band (VB) transfer to the In2O3 VB, promoting the separation of photoinduced charges, raising the quantum efficiency. When the molar ratio of In2O3/BWO is 2:6, the photocatalytic degradation degree of rhodamine B (RhB) is 59.4% (44.0% for BWO) after 60 min illumination, showing the best photocatalytic activity. After four cycles, the degradation degree of the sample was 54.3%, which is 91.4% of that of the first photocatalytic degradation experiment, indicating that the sample has good reusability. The XRD results of 2:6 In2O3/BWO before and after the cyclic experiments show that the positions and intensities of its diffraction peaks did not change significantly, indicating excellent structural stability. The active species experiment results imply that h+ is the primary species. Additionally, this study proposes a mechanism for the separation, migration, and photocatalysis of photoinduced charges in II-type semiconductor junctions.
Antimicrobial Properties and Therapeutic Potential of Bioactive Compounds in Nigella sativa: A Review
Authors: Abbas Munawar , Gururani Mayank Anand , Ali Amjad , Bajwa Sakeena , Hassan Rafia , Batool Syeda Wajiha , Imam Mahreen , Wei Dongqing
Published: October 2024

Nigella sativa (N. sativa; Ranunculaceae), commonly referred to as black cumin, is one of the most widely used medicinal plants worldwide, with its seeds having numerous applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries. With the emergence of antibiotic resistance in pathogens as an important health challenge, the need for alternative microbe-inhibitory agents is on the rise, whereby black cumin has gained considerable attention from researchers for its strong antimicrobial characteristics owing to its high content in a wide range of bioactive compounds, including thymoquinone, nigellimine, nigellidine, quercetin, and O-cymene. Particularly, thymoquinone increases the levels of antioxidant enzymes that counter oxidative stress in the liver. Additionally, the essential oil in N. sativa seeds effectively inhibits intestinal parasites and shows moderate activity against some bacteria, including Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Thymoquinone exhibits minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 8–16 μg/mL against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and exhibits MIC 0.25 µg/mL against drug-resistant mycobacteria. Similarly, quercetin shows a MIC of 2 mg/mL against oral pathogens, such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Furthermore, endophytic fungi isolated from N. sativa have demonstrated antibacterial activity. Therefore, N. sativa is a valuable medicinal plant with potential for medicinal and food-related applications. In-depth exploration of the corresponding therapeutic potential and scope of industrial application warrants further research.
A Computational Study of Heteroatom Analogues of Selenoxide and Selenone syn Eliminations
Authors: Doig Adrian I. , Stadel Jessica T. , Back Thomas G.
Published: October 2024

Selenoxide syn elimination is a widely used method for the synthesis of alkenes because it proceeds under exceptionally mild conditions, typically with excellent regio- and stereoselectivity. Surprisingly, hetero-selenoxide eliminations, where one or both olefinic carbon atoms are replaced with heteroatoms, have been little investigated, and their selenonyl counterparts even less so. A variety of such reactions, where the heteroatoms included combinations of O, N and S, as well as C, were investigated computationally. Selenoxides typically have lower activation energies and are slightly endothermic, while the corresponding selenones display higher activation energies and are exothermic in the gas state. The results are consistent with concerted, five-centre processes, leading to the formation of dioxygen, aldehydes, diazenes and imines from seleninyl or selenonyl peroxides, esters, hydrazines and amines, respectively. The more acidic selenenyl hydrodisulfide analogue undergoes proton transfer to the basic selenoxide oxygen atom instead of concerted elimination, resulting in the formation of a zwitterion. However, the formation of the corresponding selenonyl zwitterion is disfavoured compared to concerted syn elimination. The effects of solvents were also computed along with changes in enthalpy, entropy and free energy. Solvent effects were variable, while free energy calculations indicated overall ΔG values ranging between 3.60 and −32.12 kcal mol−1 for the syn eliminations of methyl methanethioseleninate and methaneperoxyselenonic acid, respectively. These computations suggest that the olefin-forming selenoxide syn elimination may be more general than currently understood and that replacement of the two carbon atoms with heteroatoms can lead to viable processes.
MicroED: Unveiling the Structural Chemistry of Plant Biomineralisation
Authors: Trzybiński Damian , Ziemniak Marcin , Olech Barbara , Sutuła Szymon , Góral Tomasz , Bemowska-Kałabun Olga , Brzost Krzysztof , Wierzbicka Małgorzata , Woźniak Krzysztof
Published: October 2024

Plants are able to produce various types of crystals through metabolic processes, serving functions ranging from herbivore deterrence to photosynthetic efficiency. However, the structural analysis of these crystals has remained challenging due to their small and often imperfect nature, which renders traditional X-ray diffraction techniques unsuitable. This study explores the use of Microcrystal Electron Diffraction (microED) as a novel method for the structural analysis of plant-derived microcrystals, focusing on Armeria maritima (Milld.), a halophytic plant known for its biomineralisation capabilities. In this study, A. maritima plants were cultivated under controlled laboratory conditions with exposure to cadmium and thallium to induce the formation of crystalline deposits on their leaf surfaces. These deposits were analysed using microED, revealing the presence of sodium chloride (halite), sodium sulphate (thénardite), and calcium sulphate dihydrate (gypsum). Our findings highlight the potential of microED as a versatile tool in plant science, capable of providing detailed structural insights into biomineralisation processes, even from minimal and imperfect crystalline samples. The application of microED in this context not only advances the present understanding of A. maritima’s adaptation to saline environments but also opens new avenues for exploring the structural chemistry of biomineralisation in other plant species. Our study advocates for the broader adoption of microED in botanical research, especially when dealing with challenging crystallographic problems.
The Effect of Molecular Structure on the Properties of Fluorene Derivatives for OLED Applications
Authors: Pidluzhna Anna , Vembris Aivars , Grzibovskis Raitis , Zommere Margarita Anna , Bezvikonnyi Oleksandr , Simokaitiene Jurate , Baronaite Melita , Volyniuk Dmytro , Grazulevicius Juozas V. , Ali Amjad , Baryshnikov Glib , Ivaniuk Khrystyna , Starykov Hryhorii , Stakhira Pavlo
Published: October 2024

A new family of symmetrical fluorene derivatives with different types of substituents attached to the C-2 and C-7 positions of the fluorene core synthesized by the Sonogashira coupling reactions is reported. The electronic structures and the properties of the compounds investigated by means of photoelectron emission spectroscopy, UV–Vis absorption and photoluminescent spectroscopy as well as by DFT and TD-DFT theoretical calculations are discussed. It is shown that the nature of substituents influences the π-conjugation of the molecules. No intermolecular charge transfer within the investigated wavelength range is observed. The applicability of the synthesized compounds in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) based on exciplex emission is demonstrated. The advanced co-deposition technique with the tuned OLED architecture was applied and resulted in improved OLED parameters.
The Thermodynamic and Kinetic Properties of the dA-rU DNA-RNA Hybrid Base Pair Investigated via Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Liu Taigang , Bao Lei , Wang Yujie
Published: October 2024

DNA-RNA hybrid duplexes play essential roles during the reverse transcription of RNA viruses and DNA replication. The opening and conformation changes of individual base pairs are critical to their biological functions. However, the microscopic mechanisms governing base pair closing and opening at the atomic level remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of the dA-rU base pair in a DNA-RNA hybrid duplex using 4 μs all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations at different temperatures. Our results showed that the thermodynamic parameters of the dA-rU base pair aligned with the predictions of the nearest-neighbor model and were close to those of the AU base pair in RNA. The temperature dependence of the average lifetimes of both the open and the closed states, as well as the transition path times, were obtained. The free-energy barrier for a single base pair opening and closing arises from an increase in enthalpy due to the disruption of the base-stacking interactions and hydrogen bonding, along with an entropy loss attributed to the accompanying restrictions, such as torsional angle constraints and solvent viscosity.
Bubble Printing of Liquid Metal Colloidal Particles for Conductive Patterns
Authors: Mukai Masaru , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Sato Mitsuki , Asada Juri , Ueno Kazuhide , Furukawa Taichi , Maruo Shoji
Published: October 2024

Bubble printing is a patterning method in which particles are accumulated by the convection of bubbles generated by laser focusing. It is attracting attention as a method that enables the high-speed, high-precision patterning of various micro/nanoparticles. Although the bubble printing method is used for metallic particles and organic particles, most reports have focused on the patterning of solid particles and not on the patterning of liquid particles. In this study, liquid metal wiring patterns were fabricated using a bubble printing method in which eutectic gallium‒indium alloy (EGaIn) colloidal particles (≈diameter 0.7 µm) were fixed on a glass substrate by generating microbubbles through heat generation by focusing a femtosecond laser beam on the EGaIn colloidal particles. The wiring was then made conductive by replacing gallium oxide, which served as a resistance layer on the surface of the EGaIn colloidal particles, with silver via galvanic replacement. Fine continuous lines of liquid metal colloids with a line width of 3.4 µm were drawn by reducing the laser power. Liquid metal wiring with a conductivity of ≈1.5 × 105 S/m was formed on a glass substrate. It was confirmed that the conductivity remained consistent even when the glass substrate was bent to a curvature of 0.02 m−1.
Mandarin Peels-Derived Carbon Dots: A Multifaceted Fluorescent Probe for Cu(II) Detection in Tap and Drinking Water Samples
Authors: El-Azazy Marwa , AlReyashi Alaa , Al-Saad Khalid , Al-Hashimi Nessreen , Al-Ghouti Mohammad A. , Shibl Mohamed F. , Alahzm Abdulrahman , El-Shafie Ahmed S.
Published: October 2024

Carbon dots (CDs) derived from mandarin peel biochar (MBC) at different pyrolysis temperatures (200, 400, 600, and 800 °C) have been synthesized and characterized. This high-value transformation of waste materials into fluorescent nanoprobes for environmental monitoring represents a step forward towards a circular economy. In this itinerary, CDs produced via one-pot hydrothermal synthesis were utilized for the detection of copper (II) ions. The study looked at the spectroscopic features of biochar-derived CDs. The selectivity of CDs obtained from biochar following carbonization at 400 °C (MBC400-CDs towards various heavy metal ions resulted in considerable fluorescence quenching with copper (II) ions, showcasing their potential as selective detectors. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis validated the MBC-CDs’ consistent spherical shape, with a particle size of <3 nm. The Plackett–Burman Design (PBD) was used to study three elements that influence the F0/F ratio, with the best ratio obtained with a pH of 10, for 10 min, and an aqueous reaction medium. Cu (II) was detected over a dynamic range of 4.9–197.5 μM and limit of detection (LOD) of 0.01 μM. Validation testing proved the accuracy and precision for evaluating tap and mountain waters with great selectivity and no interference from coexisting metal ions.
Demonstration of Steep Switching Behavior Based on Band Modulation in WSe2 Feedback Field-Effect Transistor
Authors: Kim Seung-Mo , Jun Jae Hyeon , Lee Junho , Taqi Muhammad , Shin Hoseong , Lee Sungwon , Lee Haewon , Yoo Won Jong , Lee Byoung Hun
Published: October 2024

Feedback field-effect transistors (FBFETs) have been studied to obtain near-zero subthreshold swings at 300 K with a high on/off current ratio ~1010. However, their structural complexity, such as an epitaxy process after an etch process for a Si channel with a thickness of several nanometers, has limited broader research. We demonstrated a FBFET using in-plane WSe2 p−n homojunction. The WSe2 FBFET exhibited a minimum subthreshold swing of 153 mV/dec with 30 nm gate dielectric. Our modeling-based projection indicates that the swing of this device can be reduced to 14 mV/dec with 1 nm EOT. Also, the gain of the inverter using the WSe2 FBFET can be improved by up to 1.53 times compared to a silicon CMOS inverter, and power consumption can be reduced by up to 11.9%.
Advanced Nanomaterials in Biomedical Applications (2nd Edition)
Authors: Kaluđerović Goran N. , Pantelić Nebojša Đ.
Published: October 2024

Scientific research into new functional materials for nanotechnology has attracted worldwide interest, driving substantial efforts to discovering a variety of nanomaterials [...]
Integration of Non-Destructive Testing Technologies for Effective Monitoring and Evaluation of Road Pavements
Authors: Plati Christina , Armeni Angeliki , Loizos Andreas
Published: October 2024

The successful management of road pavement maintenance requires the existence of suitable monitoring procedures for assessing pavement condition. A powerful tool for this is the use of non-destructive testing technologies. Non-destructive testing (NDT) aims to support the monitoring of pavement condition, as it enables constant and rapid collection of in situ data. Analyzing NDT data can result in the development of useful indexes that can be related to trigger values (criteria) to define pavement condition. This information can be used to assess the “health” of the pavement to decide whether intervention is required. However, to effectively support the implementation of pavement management measures, it is sometimes necessary to implement a pavement monitoring and assessment framework that can be adapted by road authorities on a case-by-case basis. To this end, this study addresses the development of a pavement monitoring and assessment procedure by integrating different NDT technologies to collect and evaluate data. The procedure, referred to as Integrated Testing and Evaluation (ITE), is proposed as an algorithm to find optimal strategies for prioritizing potential pavement interventions, considering the budget constraints for the required investigations.
Role of Nitrogen Fertilization and Sowing Date in Productivity and Climate Change Adaptation Forecast in Rice–Wheat Cropping System
Authors: Hussain Khalid , Hakki Erdoğan Eşref , Ilyas Ayesha , Gezgin Sait , Kamran Muhammad Asif
Published: October 2024

Global food security is at risk due to climate change. Soil fertility loss is among the impacts of climate change which reduces the productivity of rice–wheat cropping systems. This study investigated the effects of varying nitrogen levels and transplanting/sowing dates on the grain yield (GY) and biological yield (BY) of rice and wheat cultivars over two growing seasons (2017–2019). Additionally, the impact of climate change on the productivity of both crops was tested under a 1.5 °C temperature increase and 510 ppm CO2 concentration while nitrogen fertilization and sowing window adjustments were evaluated as adaptation options using the DSSAT and APSIM models. Results indicated that the application of 120 kg N ha−1 significantly enhanced both GY and BY in all rice cultivars. The highest wheat yields were obtained with 140 kg N ha−1 for all cultivars. Rice transplanting on the 1st of July and wheat sowing on the 15th of November showed the best yields. The statistical indices of the model’s forecast results were satisfactory for rice (R2 = 0.83–0.85, root mean square error (RMSE) = 341–441, model efficiency (EF) = 0.82–0.89) and wheat (R2 = 0.84–0.89, RMSE = 213–303, EF = 0.88–0.91). Both models predicted yield loss in wheat (20–25%) and rice (28–30%) under a climate change scenario. The models also predicted that increased nitrogen application and earlier planting would be necessary to reduce the impacts of climate change on the productivity of both crops.
Impact of Nodulation Efficiency and Concentrations of Soluble Sugars and Ureides on Soybean Water Deficit During Vegetative Growth
Authors: Tasca Helena Chaves , Posso Douglas Antônio , Mossi Altemir José , Bayer Cimélio , Cansian Rogério Luís , Chavarria Geraldo , Sausen Tanise Luisa
Published: October 2024

Drought is the primary limiting factor affecting soybean productivity, and is exacerbated by climate change. In legumes like soybeans, biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) is the main form of nitrogen acquisition, with nitrogen being converted into ureides. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using the soybean cultivar BMX Zeus IPRO, with two water treatments applied during the vegetative phase: control (C) and water deficit (D). The relative water content and number of nodules were reduced in the D plants. Ureide concentrations (allantoin and allantoic acid) were higher in nodules under D conditions. However, no differences were observed in allantoin, total ureide, and soluble sugar concentrations in leaves. Our results suggest that reducing the number of nodules may be a key strategy for maintaining BNF under drought conditions and that ureide accumulation could be the primary metabolic response in this soybean cultivar. These findings indicate that the effects of water restriction on BNF are likely associated with local metabolic responses rather than a systemic ureide feedback mechanism inhibiting BNF.
Lactose Breath Test: Possible Strategies to Optimize Test Performance, Accuracy, and Clinical Impact
Authors: Scalese Giulia , Cesarini Alessandra , Pallotta Lucia , Ribichini Emanuela , Spina Luca , Diofebi Maddalena , Citarella Anna , Cammarota Simona , Severi Carola
Published: October 2024

Lactose malabsorption (LM) refers to the incomplete absorption of lactose in the small intestine, resulting in the arrival of ingested lactose in the colon, which can give rise to symptoms defined as lactose intolerance (LI). The lactose breath test (LBT), thanks to its low cost, availability, and noninvasiveness, is the most used diagnostic method. However, the LBT is a tedious tool, requiring prolonged involvement of patients, qualified staff, and infrastructure, of which the most time-consuming factor is the frequency and number of breath samples needed. Objectives: To simplify the current LBT methodology, compliant with the current guidelines’ statements, by reducing the test duration or the number of breath samples, without compromising the test’s accuracy. Methods: The results of the standard LBT were compared with two simplified tests: a “shortened” test, lasting three hours, with samples taken every 30 min; and a “five-sample” test, lasting four hours, with samples taken every hour. Patients were stratified into three grades of malabsorption (mild, moderate, severe) based on the amount of gas exhaled. A clinical severity score was introduced to assess the clinical relevance of LI using a specific questionnaire. Results: Among the 543 patients enrolled (F 71.5%, mean age 43.7 ± 17.6 yrs), 60.4% (328/543) tested positive for LM. A total of 70.5% (383/543) presented LI, with 32.1% of those being true intolerants (LI without LM). The shortened test demonstrated an accuracy of 93.9%, with a sensitivity of 89.9% and a false negative rate of 10.1% (33/328). The five-sample test showed higher accuracy and sensitivity than the shortened test (96.5% and 94.2%, respectively; p = 0.03) with a false negative rate of 5.8% (19/328). Of the 19 false negatives in the five-sample test, 95% (18/19) were categorized as mild malabsorbents. No statistical correlation was found between the clinical severity score and LBT results. Conclusions: The five-sample test, involving hourly breath measurements, is a reliable option for simplifying the LBT without significantly reducing the procedure’s sensitivity.
Highland Barley Alleviates High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity and Liver Injury Through the IRS2/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway in Rats
Authors: Shi Xiaodong , Song Wei , Jiang Boyue , Ma Jie , Li Wanyang , Sun Mingyao , Cui Hongyuan , Chen Wei
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Highland barley (HB) consumption offers numerous health benefits; however, its impact on glycolipid metabolism abnormalities induced by a high-fat diet remains unclear. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of HB in the context of obesity; Methods: Rats were fed either a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce obesity or a standard diet (SD) for six weeks. The rats in the HFD group were randomly assigned into five groups: HFD+HFD, HFD+SD, and low (30%), medium (45%), and high (60%) doses of the HB diet for an additional ten weeks. Analyses of serum lipid profiles, liver histology, transcriptomes, and untargeted metabolomes were conducted; Results: HB intake resulted in decreased weight gain, reduced feed intake, lower serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels, and diminished hepatic lipid accumulation. It also improved insulin and fasting blood glucose levels, and antioxidant capacity in the HFD-fed rats. Transcriptome analysis revealed that HB supplementation significantly suppressed the HFD-induced increase in the expression of Angptl8, Apof, CYP7A1, GDF15, Marveld1, and Nr0b2. Furthermore, HB supplementation reversed the HFD-induced decrease in Pex11a expression. Untargeted metabolome analysis indicated that HB primarily influenced the pentose phosphate pathway, the Warburg effect, and tryptophan metabolism. Additionally, integrated transcriptome and metabolome analyses demonstrated that the treatments affected the expression of genes associated with glycolipid metabolism, specifically ABCG8, CYP2C12, CYP2C24, CYP7A1, and IRS2. Western blotting confirmed that HB supplementation impacted the IRS2/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway; Conclusions: HB alleviates HFD-induced obesity and liver injury in an obese rat model possibly through the IRS2/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Therapeutic Effects of Zanthoxyli Pericarpium on Intestinal Inflammation and Network Pharmacological Mechanism Analysis in a Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis Mouse Model
Authors: Choi Woo-Gyun , Ko Seok-Jae , Jung Daehwa , Kim Sang Chan , Choi Na-Ri , Park Jae-Woo , Kim Byung Joo
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation leading to persistent symptoms and a lack of effective treatments. ZP (Zanthoxyli Pericarpium) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for the management of intestinal disorders. (2) Methods: This study aimed to investigate the components of ZP, their specific targets, and associated diseases using the TCMSP (Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology) analysis platform, TCMBank database, and ETCM2.0 (Encyclopedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2.0) database. Additionally, we explored the protective effects of ZP on the colon and the underlying molecular mechanisms in the treatment of IBD. (3) Results: We identified 59 compounds in ZP that target 38 genes related to IBD, including PTGS2, PPARG, and GPBAR1. In a mice model of DSS (dextran sodium sulfate)-induced colitis, ZP significantly reduced colonic epithelial damage and oxidative stress markers, such as iNOS and nitrotyrosine, demonstrating its antioxidant properties. (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that ZP has protective effects against DSS-induced colonic damage owing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a potential candidate for IBD treatment. However, further research and clinical trials are required to confirm its therapeutic potential and safety in humans.
FADS1 Genetic Variant and Omega-3 Supplementation Are Associated with Changes in Fatty Acid Composition in Red Blood Cells of Subjects with Obesity
Authors: Reyes-Pérez Samantha Desireé , González-Becerra Karina , Barrón-Cabrera Elisa , Muñoz-Valle José Francisco , Armendáriz-Borunda Juan , Martínez-López Erika
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Obesity is characterized by low-grade chronic inflammation, which can be modulated by lipid mediators derived from omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Obesity is a multifactorial disease, where genetic and environmental factors strongly interact to increase its development. In this context, the FADS1 gene encodes the delta-5 desaturase protein, which catalyzes the desaturation of PUFA. The rs174547 genetic variant of FADS1 has been associated with alterations in lipid metabolism, particularly with decreases in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and arachidonic acid (AA) concentrations. Objective: To analyze the effect of an n-3-supplemented diet on the fatty acid profile and composition in red blood cells (RBCs) of obese subjects carrying the rs174547 variant of the FADS1 gene. Methodology: Seventy-six subjects with obesity were divided into two groups: omega-3 (1.5 g of n-3/day) and placebo (1.5 g of sunflower oil/day). The dietary intervention consisted of a four-month follow-up. Anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary variables were evaluated monthly. The total fatty acid profile in RBC was determined using gas chromatography. The rs174547 variant was analyzed through allelic discrimination. Results: The n-3 index (O3I) increased at the end of the intervention in both groups. Subjects carrying the CC genotype showed significant differences (minor increase) in n-6, n-3, total PUFA, EPA, DHA, and the O3I in RBCs compared to TT genotype carriers in the n-3 group. Conclusions: The diet supplemented with EPA and DHA is ideal for providing the direct products that bypass the synthesis step affected by the FADS1 rs174547 variant in subjects carrying the CC genotype. The O3I confirmed an increase in n-3 fatty acids in RBCs at the end of the intervention.
“This Is Me” an Awareness-Raising and Anti-Stigma Program for Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Pre-Post Intervention Study
Authors: Valentim Olga , Correia Tânia , Moutinho Lídia , Seabra Paulo , Querido Ana , Laranjeira Carlos
Published: October 2024

Background: Stigma education for nursing students has focused solely on stigma reduction, with studies showing temporary improvements in attitudes. However, nursing education research should also emphasize the importance of critical reflection and self-reflection to enhance attitudes, beliefs, topic comprehension, and learning satisfaction. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the “This is me” intervention regarding knowledge, attitudes, and communication skills of senior undergraduate nursing students in responding to mental illness-related stigma. Methods: This study employed a psychoeducational intervention for reducing mental illness stigma, using a questionnaire survey to assess pre- and post-intervention effects, with 37 eligible nursing students undergoing clinical training in psychiatric services between 16 May and 15 July 2022. Instruments included sociodemographic and health questions, the MICA-4 scale to evaluate students’ attitudes toward mental illness, the MAKS to measure mental health knowledge, the Empathy Scale (JSPE-S), the Intergroup Anxiety Scale (SS-12), and the Attribution Questionnaire (AQ-27). Results: Most students were female (73.0%) and single (70.3%), with a mean age of around 29 years. After implementing the psychoeducational program, there was a statistically significant increase in overall stigma-related knowledge (MAKS: Z = −1.99, p < 0.05), a decrease in intergroup anxiety (IAS: Z = −3.42, p < 0.05), and reductions in the perceptions of patients as dangerous (AQ27—Dangerousness: Z = −2.399, p < 0.05) and fear (AQ27—Fear: Z = −2.415, p < 0.05). Additionally, there was an improvement in empathy, specifically in Perspective Taking (JSPE: Z = −2.555, p < 0.05). Conclusions: This program may contribute to mental health literacy related to stigma, positively impacting therapeutic relationships and communication with people with mental illness and resulting in more effective care practices.
Experiences of Newly Qualified Nurses’ Engagement with Quality Improvement in Practice: A Qualitative Follow-Up Study
Authors: Armstrong Lorraine , Shepherd Ashley , Harris Fiona
Published: October 2024

Background: Nurse education plays an essential role in preparing future nurses to engage with quality improvement (QI) initiatives in their organisations and improve patient care. However, frontline nurses continue to report that a lack of QI knowledge hinders their abilities to engage in improvement work. In the UK, student nurses are now trained in QI within their degree to enable them to contribute to improvements once qualified. Objectives: This qualitative follow-up study investigated the sustainability of QI engagement in nurses who undertook QI training and a QI project during their degree and explored the factors influencing their engagement in QI once qualified. Methods: This paper followed the COREQ criteria to report upon 10 semi-structured interviews undertaken with registered nurses and focuses on their experiences of QI engagement post-registration. The data were investigated using an inductive thematic analysis and Nvivo 14. Findings: Five themes emerged: transition to a newly qualified nurse, QI knowledge decline, influencing factors (hierarchy, leadership, COVID-19 pandemic, data access and location), and skill transferability. Conclusions: This study showed that qualified nurses can sustain their QI knowledge and remain engaged with QI where they experience positive QI leadership and were exposed to ongoing QI activity in their preceptorship year. However, a lack of QI opportunities and a culture which does not consider QI a responsibility of new nurses is seen to hinder engagement. Educational institutions and practice partners require careful collaboration to assess and develop ongoing QI learning activities that support new nurses to engage in QI.
The Management and Prevention of Delirium in Elderly Patients Hospitalised in Intensive Care Units: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zaher-Sánchez Sarai , Satústegui-Dordá Pedro José , Ramón-Arbués Enrique , Santos-Sánchez Jose Angel , Aguilón-Leiva Juan José , Pérez-Calahorra Sofía , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Sufrate-Sorzano Teresa , Angulo-Nalda Beatriz , Garrote-Cámara María Elena , Santolalla-Arnedo Iván , Echániz-Serrano Emmanuel
Published: October 2024

Background: Delirium or an acute confusional state (ACS) is characterised as being a frequent and complex hospital complication in older adult patients, which can affect their level of independence and increase patient morbidity and mortality. Critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) frequently develop ICU delirium, leading to longer hospital and ICU stays, increased mortality and long-term impairment. Objectives: This review aims to assess existing evidence of interventions that can be considered effective for the management and prevention of delirium in ICUs, reducing short-term morbidity and mortality, ICU and hospital admission times and the occurrence of other long-term complications. Methodology: For this systematic review, we searched Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINHAL, LILACS, SciELO and Dialnet from January 2018 to August 2024, in English, Spanish and French. MeSH descriptors were adjusted to search the different databases. We also checked Prospero for ongoing systematic reviews. Main results: The electronic search yielded a total of 2656 studies, of which 14 trials met the eligibility criteria, with a total of 14,711 participants. We included eight randomised clinical trial (RCTs), four cohort analyses, one systematic review and one observational trial, including participants over 65 years admitted to the ICU. Ten of these studies were based on pharmacological interventions, three of them examined non-pharmacological interventions and the remaining study examined mixed (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) interventions. Six placebo RCTs were included, plus four reported comparisons between different drugs. Regarding non-pharmacological interventions, nursing programmes focused on optimising modifiable risk factors or the use of therapies such as bright light are emerging. Regarding mixed interventions, we found the combination of invasive techniques and with sedoanalgesia. Conclusions: Due to its satisfactory level of sedation, dexmedetomidine is presented as a viable option because, although olanzapine offers safer results, postoperative administration angiotensin inhibitor systems significantly reduced the incidence of delirium. As for propofol, no significant differences were found. Among the non-pharmacological and mixed therapies, bright light therapy was able to reduce the incidence of delirium, and the combination of epidural/general anaesthesia was effective in all subtypes of delirium. Concerning the remaining interventions, the scientific evidence is still insufficient to provide a definitive recommendation.
Perceived Pain in People Living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis—A Scoping Review
Authors: Rosa Debora , Ingrande Laura , Marcomini Ilaria , Poliani Andrea , Villa Giulia , Sodano Martina , Manara Duilio Fiorenzo
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: Pain is a common symptom in patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). There are no evidence-based pharmacological treatments for pain in ALS; recommendations are based on guidelines for chronic non-oncological pain and clinical experience. The aim is to map the literature on how people with ALS experience pain, and how this affects their daily activities and social relationships. (2) Methods: This scoping review included studies concerning patients with spinal/bulbar ALS aged ≥ 18 years who experience pain, focusing on perception, characteristics, treatment, and impact on quality of life. Temporal and linguistic criteria were applied when searching the MEDLINE, CINAHL, and SCOPUS databases. (3) Results: The management of pain in these patients is complex and involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, and opioids. Pain is associated with other conditions such as depression and anxiety, which contribute to a deterioration in the quality of life. Moreover, pain may also negatively influence patient compliance with prescribed treatment regimens and the quality of care they perceive themselves to be receiving. (4) Conclusions: It is of the most importance to identify effective ways to assess and treat this issue, with health care professionals taking an active role in this process.
Clinical Simulation Program for the Training of Health Profession Residents in Confidentiality and the Use of Social Networks
Authors: Martínez-Arce Alejandro , Bermejo-Cantarero Alberto , Muñoz de Morales-Romero Laura , Baladrón-González Víctor , Bejarano-Ramírez Natalia , Verdugo-Moreno Gema , Montero-Gaspar María Antonia , Redondo-Calvo Francisco Javier
Published: October 2024

Background: In the transition to a professional learning environment, healthcare professionals in their first year of specialized postgraduate clinical training (known as residents in Spain) are suddenly required to handle confidential information with little or no prior training in the safe and appropriate use of digital media with respect to confidentiality issues. The aims of this study were: (1) to explore the usefulness of an advanced clinical simulation program for educating residents from different healthcare disciplines about confidentiality and the dissemination of clinical data or patient images; (2) to explore the use of social networks in healthcare settings; and (3) to explore participants’ knowledge and attitudes on current regulations regarding confidentiality, image dissemination, and the use of social networks; Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from all 49 first-year residents of different health professions at a Spanish hospital between June and August 2022. High-fidelity clinical simulation sessions designed to address confidentiality and health information dissemination issues in hospital settings, including the use of social networks, were developed and implemented. Data were assessed using a 12-item ad hoc questionnaire on confidentiality and the use of social media in the healthcare setting. Descriptive of general data and chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test were performed using the SPSS 25.0 software; Results: All the participants reported using the messaging application WhatsApp regularly during their working day. A total of 20.4% of the participants stated that they had taken photos of clinical data (radiographs, analyses, etc.) without permission, with 40.8% claiming that they were unaware of the legal consequences of improper access to clinical records. After the course, the participants reported intending to modify their behavior when sharing patient data without their consent and with respect to how patients are informed; Conclusions: The use of advanced simulation in the training of interprofessional teams of residents is as an effective tool for initiating attitudinal change and increasing knowledge related to patient privacy and confidentiality. Further follow-up studies are needed to see how these attitudes are incorporated into clinical practice.
Potential Applications of the Anti-Inflammatory, Antithrombotic and Antioxidant Health-Promoting Properties of Curcumin: A Critical Review
Authors: Rapti Elli , Adamantidi Theodora , Efthymiopoulos Pavlos , Kyzas George Z. , Tsoupras Alexandros
Published: October 2024

The major constituent of turmeric, curcumin, is a bioactive phenolic compound that has been studied for its potential health benefits and therapeutic properties. Within this article, the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antithrombotic properties and mechanisms of action of curcumin are thoroughly reviewed and the main focus is shifted to its associated health-promoting effects against inflammation-related chronic disorders. An overview of the cardio-protective, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-microbial and neuro–protective health-promoting properties of curcumin are thoroughly reviewed, while relative outcomes obtained from clinical trials are also presented. Emphasis is given to the wound-healing properties of curcumin, as presented by several studies and clinical trials, which further promote the application of curcumin as a bioactive ingredient in several functional products, including functional foods, nutraceuticals, cosmetics and drugs. Limitations and future perspectives of such uses of curcumin as a bio-functional ingredient are also discussed.
Cancer Immunotherapy: Targeting TREX1 Has the Potential to Unleash the Host Immunity against Cancer Cells
Authors: Hawillo Karim , Kemiha Samira , Técher Hervé
Published: October 2024

Chromosomal instability and DNA damage are hallmarks of cancers that can result in the accumulation of micronuclei, cytosolic chromatin fragments (CCFs), or cytosolic DNA species (cytoDNA). The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is a DNA sensor that recognizes cytosolic DNA and chromatin fragments and subsequently triggers a systemic type I interferon response via the cGAS-STING pathway. Although cancer cells usually contain a high level of chromosomal instability, these cells can avoid the induction of the interferon (IFN) response either by silencing cGAS-STING or the upregulation of the three prime exonuclease 1 (TREX1). TREX1 restricts the spontaneous activation of the cGAS-STING pathway through the degradation of cytoDNA; this in turn limits tumor immunogenicity allowing cancer cells to evade immune detection. Deletion of TREX1 in different cancer types has been shown to decrease tumor growth and increase tumor immune infiltration in pre-clinical mice models. These recent studies also showed the efficacy of TREX1-targeting in combination with anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade. Therefore, targeting TREX1 represents a unique therapeutic strategy to induce an amplified induction of a type I IFN response, promoting the host’s immune response against chromosomally unstable cancer cells. We here discuss these recent advances obtained in preclinical cancer models that pave the way to develop TREX1 inhibitors and to find new avenues to target the broad cGAS-STING pathway signaling in cancer therapy.
A Review of Non-Linear Optical Imaging Techniques for Cancer Detection
Authors: Ávila Francisco J.
Published: October 2024

The World Health Organization (WHO) cancer agency predicts that more than 35 million cases of cancer will be experienced in 2050, a 77% increase over the 2022 estimate. Currently, the main cancers diagnosed are breast, lung, and colorectal. There is no standardized tool for cancer diagnoses; initially, clinical procedures are guided by the patient symptoms and usually involve biochemical blood tests, imaging, and biopsy. Label-free non-linear optical approaches are promising tools for tumor imaging, due to their inherent non-invasive biosafe contrast mechanisms and the ability to monitor collagen-related disorders, and biochemical and metabolic changes during cancer progression. In this review, the main non-linear microscopy techniques are discussed, according to three main contrast mechanisms: biochemical, metabolic, and structural imaging.
Silicon-, Silica-, and Silicate-Toothpastes for Remineralization and Repair of Teeth: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sampaio Fabio Correia , Oliveira Andressa Feitosa Bezerra de , Fernandes Nayanna Lana Soares , Gentile Ana Carolina Cheron , Marinho Giovanna Bueno , Bönecker Marcelo José Strazzeri , Paschoal Marco Aurelio Benini , D’Alpino Paulo Henrique Perlatti , Vilhena Fabiano Vieira
Published: October 2024

Objective: The purpose of this scoping review was to identify gaps in the literature and summarize findings from studies examining the use of silicon-, silica-, and silicate-based toothpastes for the remineralization and repair of mineralized tooth tissues. Methods: A 10-year literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus, adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A total of 331 studies were initially identified, with 56 full-text review articles. After selecting the manuscripts, 27 studies were qualitatively analyzed by four reviewers, focusing on the results of both in vivo and in vitro methods. Results: The findings suggest that toothpastes containing silicon, silica, and silicate demonstrate promising results for remineralization and enamel repair, with evidence of mineral layer formation and/or deep enamel surface remineralization under various conditions. Additionally, the use of these toothpastes can lead to the obliteration of dentinal tubules within a few days. The results collectively support the efficacy of these toothpastes in enamel repair. Most of the clinical studies focused on dentine hypersensitivity, followed by white spot lesions. Conclusions: Silicon-, silica-, and silicate-based toothpastes (bioactive Si-toothpastes) can be considered effective based mostly on laboratory studies. There remains a need for more in vivo research studies on enamel and dentin mineral repair. Existing studies provide strong evidence that these technologies can reduce dentin hypersensitivity and promote enamel–dentin repair.
Some Singular Spacetimes and Their Possible Alternatives
Authors: DeBenedictis Andrew
Published: October 2024

In this review, we begin with a historical survey of some singular solutions in the theory of gravitation, as well as a very brief discussion of how black holes could physically form. Some possible scenarios which could perhaps eliminate these singularities are then reviewed and discussed. Due to the vastness of the field, its coverage is not exhaustive; instead, the concentration is on a small subset of topics such as possible quantum gravity effects, non-commutative geometry, and gravastars. A simple singularity theorem is also reviewed. Although parts of the manuscript assume some familiarity with relativistic gravitation or differential geometry, the aim is for the broad picture to be accessible to non-specialists of other physical sciences and mathematics.