bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-life effectiveness and safety of baricitinib in 17 Japanese patients with alopecia areata: a 60-week single center study
Authors: Uchiyama Akihiko , Araki Takeshi , Kosaka Keiji , Motegi Sei-Ichiro
Published: January 2025

Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic immune-mediated skin disorder characterized by non-scarring hair loss. Although clinical trials have shown the effectiveness and safety of baricitinib, there are limited reports that have shown real-world evidence of baricitinib in patients with AA. Herein, we present the real-world data of 17 Japanese adult patients with AA treated with baricitinib at Gunma University Hospital, Japan, for 60 weeks. All patients received 4 mg of baricitinib daily without interruption. The SALT20 achievement was 29.4% (5/17) at week 24, 52.9% (9/17) at week 36, 58.9% (11/17) at week 48, and 64.7% (11/17) at week 60. Patients were categorized as early responders (n = 1), gradual responders (n = 8), late responders (n = 3), and non-responders (n = 5). Exacerbations of alopecia occurred in only one patient. Eleven patients experienced improvement in scalp hair loss at week 12, leading to a significant reduction in the AA-IGA score. At week 24, improvements in eyebrows and eyelashes were noted in 12 and 11 patients, respectively, with significant reductions in their ClinRO scores. The duration of the current episode of AA exceeding 4 years significantly reduced the SALT20 achievement rate (p < 0.027). Common adverse effects included acne (n = 4, 23.5%) and mildly decreased renal function (n = 2, 11.7%). In conclusion, our findings indicate that baricitinib has significant potential for improving intractable severe AA.
Soil Degradation Evidence Following a Wildfire in Arequipa’s Andean Region, Peru
Authors: Coaguila Lunsden , Mataix-Solera Jorge , Nina Sonia , García-Carmona Minerva , Salazar Elizabeth T.
Published: January 2025

Fire is a natural ecological force, but its effects vary significantly depending on the ecosystem. While fire-adapted ecosystems, such as Mediterranean woodlands, recover quickly, non-fire adapted regions like the Peruvian Andes are highly vulnerable to soil degradation, especially with increasing wildfire frequency and intensity due to climate change. The study investigates the effects of a 2018 wildfire in the Pichu Pichu volcano mountain area, a shrubland ecosystem at 3,700 m a.s.l. The arid conditions and unique soil characteristics, such as the Torripsamment soil on volcaniclastic sandstones, make the area particularly vulnerable to fire-induced degradation. Soils were evaluated three and 4 years after the fire event under two key dominant plant species in the ecosystem: Berberis lutea and Parastrephia quadrangularis. The results show that the combined fire and post-fire erosion processes significantly impacted soil properties, leading to a loss of soil organic carbon (SOC), increased bulk density (BD), loss of soil structure and, in the second sampling, a strong reduction in clay content attributable to weak aggregation and erosive processes. Soils under Berberis exhibited greater SOC losses, likely due to its larger biomass that intensified the combustion effects. The decrease in SOC resulted in soil compaction. Water repellency (WR), a natural feature in these soils due to the high sand content, remained largely unaffected by the fire. However, the persistence of WR may hinder water infiltration, increasing surface runoff and erosion, especially in the absence of vegetation post-fire. The findings highlight the fragility of these Andean soils to fire events, contrasting with the resilience that Mediterranean ecosystems often display. This lack of recovery underscores the need for improved wildfire prevention and post-fire soil management strategies, particularly as climate change further exacerbates the risks of soil degradation due to reduced water availability and more frequent fires in these fragile arid ecosystems.
Progress in Elucidating the Mechanism of Selenium in Mitigating Heavy Metal Stress in Crop Plants
Authors: Jia Shuqing , Guan Qing , Niu Yulong , Wang Ye , Li Linling , Cheng Hua
Published: January 2025

In the context of rapid industrialization and agricultural modernization, the issue of heavy metal (HM) pollution has surfaced as a critical concern, posing a substantial threat to human health and having a profound impact on agricultural cultivation. Selenium (Se), a beneficial micronutrient for crop growth and development, exerts numerous beneficial effects, including facilitating photosynthesis, enhancing physiological attributes, improving nutritional quality, strengthening antioxidant systems, and modulating the expression of stress-responsive genes. Notably, Se plays a pivotal role in alleviating HM stress in crops and effectively mitigating the accumulation of HMs in edible plant parts. This study investigates the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying Se’s capacity to alleviate HM stress in crops. Additionally, we discuss the application of Se-enriched fertilizers in agricultural practices, as well as the influence of environmental factors on their effectiveness. Our objective is to contribute to sustainable agricultural development and the production of safe, high-quality agricultural products, thereby providing valuable insights for the development of Se-functional industries and guiding agricultural practices in regions affected by HM pollution.
Relationship Between Soil Aggregate Stability and Associated Carbon and Nitrogen Changes Under Different Ecological Construction Measures in the Karst Region of Southwest China
Authors: Li Meiting , Wang Keqin , Ma Xiaoyi , Fan Mingsi , Li Biyu , Song Yali
Published: January 2025

As the fundamental unit of soil structure, soil aggregates play a crucial role in enhancing soil carbon and nitrogen storage, thereby supporting soil fertility and overall health, particularly in fragile karst regions. This study aims to quantify the effects of various ecological construction measures on soil aggregate stability, including focusing on geometric mean diameter (GMD), mean weight diameter (MWD), and K values, as well as aggregate-related organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN), soil mechanical composition, and aggregate content. The ecological construction measures examined include plantation forests (Y7th–rgl), restored forests (Y6th–zr), fruit forests (Y6th–jgl), and contour reverse slope terraces (Y1th–crt). Compared to sloping farmland, contour reverse slope terraces, with their distinctive priority induction function, significantly increased the content of medium-fine particle aggregates, greater than 87%. Among the ecological construction measures, plantation forests exhibited the highest aggregate stability, with an average increase ranging from 8% to 157%. Notably, microaggregates, regardless of size, possessed the highest carbon and nitrogen contents, contributing significantly to soil carbon and nitrogen pools. Furthermore, both plantation and contour reverse slope terrace treatments demonstrated an equal contribution of carbon and nitrogen across all aggregate sizes. The partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) analysis indicates that land use type and the content of carbon and nitrogen pools are the primary factors influencing soil aggregate stability. These findings suggest that plantations are particularly effective in enhancing soil and water conservation in fragile karst areas, while the contour reverse slope terrace method shows potential for stabilizing soil structure over extended time scales due to its unique “preferential entrainment” function.
Quantifying the Performance of European Agriculture Through the New European Sustainability Model
Authors: Georgescu Puiu-Lucian , Barbuta-Misu Nicoleta , Zlati Monica Laura , Fortea Costinela , Antohi Valentin Marian
Published: January 2025

The study aims to assess the performance of European sustainable agriculture through a new model of agricultural sustainability, addressing a significant gap identified in the literature: the lack of a systematic framework integrating the economic, environmental, and resource efficiency dimensions of agricultural resource use in the context of the EU Common Agricultural Policy and the Green Deal. The research develops four synthetic indicators: ISPAS (Index of Sustainable Agricultural Productivity), IREA (Index of Reduced Emissions from Agriculture), ISAC (Index of Combined Agricultural Sustainability), and IESA (Index of Agricultural Land Area Efficiency), each reflecting complementary aspects of sustainable agricultural performance. The methodology is based on an econometric linear model and a dynamic Arellano–Bond model, which allows the analysis of the temporal relationships between synthetic indicators and agricultural sustainability performance, capturing the inertia effects and structural dynamics of the European agricultural sector. The modeling provides a robust approach to capture the interdependencies between agricultural emission reductions, sustainability mainstreaming, and land use efficiency. The results of the study indicate a superior quality of measurement by applying this integrated framework, highlighting significant relationships between emission reductions, the integration of economic and environmental dimensions, and the optimization of agricultural land use. The analysis also provides valuable policy implications, suggesting concrete directions for adapting European agricultural policies to the structural particularities of Member States. By integrating a dynamic methodological framework and innovative synthetic indicators, this study contributes to a thorough understanding of agricultural sustainability performance and provides a practical tool for underpinning sustainable agricultural policies in the European Union.
Effects of Dietary Starch Concentration on Milk Production, Nutrient Digestibility, and Methane Emissions in Mid-Lactation Dairy Cows
Authors: Culbertson Rebecca L. , Gutiérrez-Oviedo Fabian A. , Uzun Pinar , Seneviratne Nirosh , Fontoura Ananda B. P. , Yau Brianna K. , Judge Josie L. , Davis Amanda N. , Reyes Diana C. , McFadden Joseph W.
Published: January 2025

Our objective was to evaluate the effects of dietary starch concentration on milk production, nutrient digestibility, and methane emissions in lactating dairy cows. Thirty mid-lactation cows were randomly assigned to either a high-neutral-detergent-fiber, low-starch diet (LS; 20.2% starch) or a low-neutral-detergent-fiber, high-starch diet (HS; 25.2% starch) following a 3-week acclimation. The study lasted 8 weeks, with milk sampling and gas measurements conducted weekly during acclimation and at weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. Blood and fecal samples were collected during acclimation and week 8. Compared with LS cows, HS cows produced 1.9 kg/d more energy-corrected milk (4.45% increase), with higher yields of true protein (+0.13 kg/day), lactose (+0.10 kg/day), and total solids (+0.24 kg/day). Dry matter and organic matter digestibility was 4.2 and 4.3% higher, respectively, in the HS group. The milk fatty acid (FA) profile differed, with LS cows having greater mixed FA content and HS cows showing higher de novo FA content and yield. Although methane production tended to be higher in HS cows (+25 g/day), methane yield decreased by 8.8%. Overall, the HS diet improved milk production, nutrient digestibility, and environmental efficiency by reducing methane yield in dairy cows.
Environmental Covariates for Sampling Optimization and Pest Prediction in Soybean Crops
Authors: Martins Cenneya Lopes , Pusch Maiara , Godoy Wesley Augusto Conde , Amaral Lucas Rios do
Published: January 2025

Insect pest infestations can vary due to spatial differences in microclimates and food availability within agroecosystems. Covariates can reflect these environmental conditions. This study tested whether using environmental covariates in two-phase sample optimization improved the spatial predictions for soybean insect pests. During the 2021–2022 crop season, insect pest samples were collected at 50 georeferenced points in a commercial soybean field in Brazil, alongside data on environmental covariates such as vegetation indices, soil properties, terrain topography, and distances from riparian areas. Three covariates were selected using correlation and principal component analysis (PCA). In the 2022–2023 crop season, sample designs were optimized using the iterative algorithm optimization of sample configurations using spatial simulated annealing (SPSANN) using the selected covariates, resulting in two optimized designs that were compared to a regular grid. Data from the three sampling designs comprising 50 points were evaluated using geostatistical methods, regression analysis (pest abundance), and classification (pest presence or absence) via the random forest algorithm. The data showed no spatial dependence, making using geostatistical interpolators inappropriate. However, a multi-objective optimized sampling design, tailored to refine configurations for identifying and estimating variograms and spatial trends essential for spatial interpolation, produced the most accurate predictions. Therefore, a two-phase sample optimization with prior in situ selection of environmental covariates improves pest predictions in agricultural systems, contributing to more efficient and sustainable agricultural management.
Advanced Imaging for Congenital Left Ventricular Diverticulum in a Dog: The Role of Electrocardiosynchronous CT
Authors: Hirose Miki , Hamabe Lina , Shimada Kazumi , Takeuchi Aki , Terai Kazuyuki , Yokoi Aimi , Farag Ahmed , Hatanaka Akari , Hayashi Rio , Matsuura Katsuhiro , Tanaka Ryou
Published: January 2025

A 2-month-old Shiba Inu was presented to an emergency veterinary clinic with decreased activity and was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension secondary to a ventricular septal defect. The dog was referred to the TUAT Veterinary Medical Center for further evaluation. During treatment, a diverticulum was incidentally identified at the apex of the left ventricle. While the diverticulum caused no clinical symptoms, a cardiac synchronous computed tomography (CT) scan was performed to accurately assess its anatomical location and size. This case highlights the value of advanced imaging techniques in diagnosing complex congenital cardiac anomalies.
Antibiotic Prescription Practice and Resistance Patterns of Bacterial Isolates from a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Retrospective Study from Jordan
Authors: Alameri Mariam , Gharaibeh Lobna , Alsous Mervat , Yaghi Aseel , Tanash Asma’a , Sa’id Saqr , Sartawi Hanan
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Neonatal sepsis is a systemic inflammation in neonates caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that can progress into severe conditions. In developing countries, neonatal sepsis is a major cause of mortality and a major public health issue with a high prevalence. This study aims to evaluate the antibiotic prescription practice and resistance patterns of bacterial isolates from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the largest governmental hospital in Amman, Jordan. Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. The antibiotic prescription practice and resistance patterns of bacterial isolates from the NICU at Al Basheer Government Hospital in Amman, Jordan, were evaluated. The hospital’s microbiology lab database and medical records were the sources of the retrospective data collection. Results: A total of 266 neonates treated with antibiotics were assessed. The findings showed that most neonates had late-onset sepsis (LOS) (65.4%). The penicillin group of antibiotics (ampicillin) was the most highly prescribed first empiric antibiotic for LOS and early-onset sepsis (EOS) (61.7%). Aminoglycosides (60.9%) were the most prescribed antibiotics as a second empiric treatment for EOS and LOS. The culture results showed that resistance to antibiotics was as follows: 15.4% of the culture samples were resistant to penicillin (Micrococcus and Viridans streptococci), 13.9% were resistant to cefotaxime (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Viridans streptococci), 13.2% were resistant to cefoxitin (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus epidermidis), and 12.4% were resistant to oxacillin (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus epidermidis). Conclusions: This retrospective study sheds light on the antibiotic prescription practice and resistance patterns of bacterial isolates from newborns with sepsis. The results highlight the high rates of antibiotic resistance. These findings underline the urgent need for improved antibiotic stewardship and infection control strategies to prevent resistance from spreading further.
Molecular Hydrogen Modulates T Cell Differentiation and Enhances Neuro-Regeneration in a Vascular Dementia Mouse Model
Authors: Lee Dain , Jo Hyunjun , Choi Jong-Il
Published: January 2025

This study explores whether molecular hydrogen (H2) administration can alleviate cognitive and immunological disturbances in a mouse model of vascular dementia (VaD). Adult male C57BL/6 mice underwent bilateral common carotid artery stenosis to induce VaD and were subsequently assigned to three groups: VaD, VaD with hydrogen-rich water treatment (VaD + H2), and Sham controls. Behavioral assessments using open field and novel object recognition tests revealed that VaD mice exhibited anxiety-deficient behavior and memory impairment, both of which were reversed by H2 treatment. Histological examinations showed pyknotic neuronal morphologies and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the VaD hippocampus, whereas H2 administration mitigated these alterations. Furthermore, VaD-induced downregulation of BCL2 was reversed in the VaD + H2 group, in parallel with increased IL-4 expression. Flow cytometric analyses revealed that VaD disrupted T regulatory cell homeostasis by significantly increasing their proportion, an effect reversed by H2 treatment, thereby restoring immunological balance. Transcriptomic evaluations confirmed that VaD suppressed key neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory genes, while H2 treatment restored or enhanced their expression. Collectively, these findings highlight the neuroprotective and immuno-modulatory potential of molecular hydrogen, suggesting that H2 supplementation may promote neuronal resilience, modulate T cell differentiation, and support cognitive recovery in vascular dementia.
Molecular Insights in the Anticancer Activity of Natural Tocotrienols: Targeting Mitochondrial Metabolism and Cellular Redox Homeostasis
Authors: Chiaramonte Raffaella , Sauro Giulia , Giannandrea Domenica , Limonta Patrizia , Casati Lavinia
Published: January 2025

The role of mitochondria as the electric engine of cells is well established. Over the past two decades, accumulating evidence has pointed out that, despite the presence of a highly active glycolytic pathway (Warburg effect), a functional and even upregulated mitochondrial respiration occurs in cancer cells to meet the need of high energy and the biosynthetic demand to sustain their anabolic growth. Mitochondria are also the primary source of intracellular ROS. Cancer cells maintain moderate levels of ROS to promote tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance; indeed, once the cytotoxicity threshold is exceeded, ROS trigger oxidative damage, ultimately leading to cell death. Based on this, mitochondrial metabolic functions and ROS generation are considered attractive targets of synthetic and natural anticancer compounds. Tocotrienols (TTs), specifically the δ- and γ-TT isoforms, are vitamin E-derived biomolecules widely shown to possess striking anticancer properties since they regulate several intracellular molecular pathways. Herein, we provide for the first time an overview of the mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming and redox homeostasis perturbation occurring in cancer cells, highlighting their involvement in the anticancer properties of TTs. This evidence sheds light on the use of these natural compounds as a promising preventive or therapeutic approach for novel anticancer strategies.
Weizmannia coagulans BC99 Attenuates Oxidative Stress Induced by Acute Alcoholic Liver Injury via Nrf2/SKN-1 Pathway and Liver Metabolism Regulation
Authors: Wu Ying , Li Cheng , Gao Yinyin , Zhang Jie , Dong Yao , Zhao Lina , Li Yuwan , Gu Shaobin
Published: January 2025

Acute alcoholic liver injury (AALI) remains a significant global health concern, primarily driven by oxidative stress. This study investigated the protective mechanisms of Weizmannia coagulans BC99 against alcohol-induced oxidative stress using a dual model in rats and Caenorhabditis elegans. In rats, excessive alcohol was predominantly metabolized via the CYP2E1 pathway, leading to severe oxidative stress. However, intervention with BC99 suppressed CYP2E1 expression and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities through the Nrf2/SKN-1 pathway, thereby alleviating oxidative stress. Additionally, BC99 treatment elevated glutamate and aspartate levels while reducing glycerate and glucose, which collectively increased glutathione levels and mitigated oxidative stress triggered by glucose metabolism disorders. In C. elegans, BC99 reduced excessive ROS by upregulating Nrf2/skn-1, daf-16, and their downstream antioxidant genes, consequently alleviating the biotoxicity associated with alcohol-induced oxidative damage. The protective effects of BC99 were markedly diminished in the skn-1 mutant (GR2245) and daf-16 mutant (CF1038), further confirming the pivotal roles of SKN-1 and DAF-16 pathways in BC99-mediated antioxidant protection. Taken together, these findings reveal that BC99 mitigates alcohol-induced oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/SKN-1 pathway and regulating liver metabolites to eliminate excess ROS, thereby providing a theoretical basis for the application of probiotics in preventing acute alcoholic liver injury.
Exploring the Active Constituents of Andrographis paniculata in Protecting the Skin Barrier and the Synergistic Effects with Collagen XVII
Authors: Xu Heng , Lan Shiying , Lin Simin , Wang Anjing , Luo Yuanlin , Wang Jing , Yang Zhenzhong
Published: January 2025

Andrographis paniculata is mainly used to treat skin inflammations, wounds, and infections. In this study, Andrographis Herba, the aerial part of the plant, was proven to increase the viability of UVB-damaged HaCat cells and reduce reactive oxygen species levels. The chemical composition of Andrographis Herba extract (AHE) was analyzed using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, and diterpene lactones were identified as its primary constituents. Then, the fraction of diterpene lactones was prepared and exhibited similar effects to AHE. AHE, its diterpene lactones component, and its representative constituent andrographolide all decreased the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and CDKN1A. Furthermore, the protective effects of AHE and its active ingredients on UVB-damaged epidermal stem cells were investigated. Notably, the combined treatment with andrographolide and collagen XVII enhanced the viability of UVB-damaged epidermal stem cells, increased the expression of stemness markers integrin β1 and p63, and decreased the expression of the differentiation marker keratin 10. This combination demonstrated significant synergy in maintaining skin homeostasis, which provides evidences for the development of skin-protective products.
Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Blends with Esterified Lignin
Authors: de Sousa Junior Rogerio Ramos , Garcia Guilherme Elias Saltarelli , da Silva Bisneto Manuel Patricio , de Freitas Laura Gouveia , Hubmann Tamiris Basan , Coutinho Túlio Morás , dos Santos Demetrio Jackson
Published: January 2025

Lignin, a renewable and widely available biopolymer, has been explored as an additive in polyolefins to develop high value-added materials. However, its low compatibility with polymers like polypropylene (PP) often causes poor particle dispersion and compromised mechanical properties. Esterification has proven effective in enhancing lignin-polyolefin interactions. This study evaluated the incorporation of kraft lignin (KL) and maleic anhydride-modified kraft lignin (MAKL) into PP, focusing on lignin dispersion and the blends’ thermal, mechanical, and viscoelastic properties. Thermal analyses showed that MAKL reduced PP crystallinity, indicating improved compatibility, supported by micrographs showing more uniform particle dispersion. Mechanically, low MAKL concentrations maintained yield strength similar to neat PP, while 5 wt% MAKL increased impact strength by up to 148%. This improvement was attributed to enhanced interfacial interaction, reduced crystallinity, and better energy dissipation. The findings demonstrate that esterification of lignin with maleic anhydride effectively overcomes compatibility limitations with PP, leading to significant gains in mechanical and viscoelastic properties. This work advances lignin’s sustainable use in polymer blends, emphasizing its potential as a renewable alternative in material development.
Recycling of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Batteries from the End Product Quality Perspective
Authors: Barbosa de Mattos Deise F. , Duda Simon , Petranikova Martina
Published: January 2025

As efforts towards greener energy and mobility solutions are constantly increasing, so is the demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Their growing market implies an increasing generation of hazardous waste, which contains large amounts of electrolyte, which is often corrosive and flammable and releases toxic gases, and critical raw materials that are indispensable to the renewable energy sector, such as lithium. Therefore, it is crucial that end-of-life LIBs be recycled in a viable way to avoid environmental pollution and to ensure the reuse of valuable materials that would otherwise be lost. Here, we present a critical review of recent developments in the field of LIB recycling with the LiFePO4 (LFP) chemistry, which is one of the fastest-growing fields, especially in the electromobility sector. Most of the recycling methods developed are not applied industrially due to issues such as complexity, cost, or low quality of the recycled product. This last issue is rarely discussed in the literature, which motivated the creation of this review article, with emphasis on the positive electrode recycling by the direct method and on the quality of the resynthesized LFP in terms of electrochemical performance.
Eliciting Emotions: Investigating the Use of Generative AI and Facial Muscle Activation in Children’s Emotional Recognition
Authors: Solis-Arrazola Manuel A. , Sanchez-Yanez Raul E. , Gonzalez-Acosta Ana M. S. , Garcia-Capulin Carlos H. , Rostro-Gonzalez Horacio
Published: January 2025

This study explores children’s emotions through a novel approach of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and Facial Muscle Activation (FMA). It examines GenAI’s effectiveness in creating facial images that produce genuine emotional responses in children, alongside FMA’s analysis of muscular activation during these expressions. The aim is to determine if AI can realistically generate and recognize emotions similar to human experiences. The study involves generating a database of 280 images (40 per emotion) of children expressing various emotions. For real children’s faces from public databases (DEFSS and NIMH-CHEFS), five emotions were considered: happiness, angry, fear, sadness, and neutral. In contrast, for AI-generated images, seven emotions were analyzed, including the previous five plus surprise and disgust. A feature vector is extracted from these images, indicating lengths between reference points on the face that contract or expand based on the expressed emotion. This vector is then input into an artificial neural network for emotion recognition and classification, achieving accuracies of up to 99% in certain cases. This approach offers new avenues for training and validating AI algorithms, enabling models to be trained with artificial and real-world data interchangeably. The integration of both datasets during training and validation phases enhances model performance and adaptability.
Sustainable Herbal Teas from Fig (Ficus carica L.) Waste Leaves: Volatile Fingerprinting, Sensory Descriptors, and Consumer Acceptability
Authors: Cincotta Fabrizio , Torre Marco , Merlino Maria , Condurso Concetta , Buda Martina , Verzera Antonella
Published: January 2025

Herbal teas made from agricultural waste or by-products are gaining attention as eco-friendly alternatives to support circular economy practices. Fig (Ficus carica L.) leaves are well known for their biological activities. The research aims to investigate the possibility of using fig waste leaves to produce healthy and sustainable herbal teas. Different drying technologies have been used, including air drying (AD) and microwave drying (MWD), and consumer acceptability was tested and related to the sensory features and volatile odor compounds. Sensory descriptive analysis and hedonic consumer tests were carried out. Odor volatiles were analyzed by headspace–solid-phase microextraction–mass spectrometry–gas chromatography (HS-SPME-GC-MS). The teas were also evaluated for their phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Results indicate that MWD increases the total phenolic compound amount by 20%, reduces C6 alcohols and aldehydes responsible for green and herbaceous sensory notes, and increases pentanal, octanal, nonanal, ketones (especially 6 methyl-5-hepten-2-one) and terpenes, such as β-cyclocitral, which are related to the fruity and honey odors; this leads to a more appreciated color and taste. This study demonstrated that dehydrated fig waste leaves, especially those processed through the eco-friendly microwave drying method, can be utilized to produce herbal teas with favorable sensory and nutritional properties. This approach aligns with sustainability objectives and presents a promising strategy for diversifying the herbal tea market while promoting the valorization of agricultural wastes.
Puerarin Promotes the Migration and Differentiation of Myoblasts by Activating the FAK and PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways
Authors: Fang Xiaofeng , Xu Hangjia , Fan Zhaoxin , Yang Hongge , Huang Yan , Xu Lin , Rong Yiwei , Ma Wei , Pei Liubao , Liang Hongsheng
Published: January 2025

Puerarin, a flavonoid compound present in the roots of radix puerariae, contributes to the development of tissues such as bone and nerve, but its role in skeletal muscle regeneration remains unclear. In this study, we employed C2C12 myoblasts and barium chloride (BaCl2)-based muscle injury models to investigate the effects of puerarin on myogenesis. Our study showed that puerarin stimulated the migration and differentiation of myoblasts in vitro. For the mechanism study, we found that puerarin’s influence on cell migration was associated with the activation of FAK signaling; additionally, puerarin induced myoblast differentiation by upregulating the PI3K/AKT pathway. We also found that puerarin treatment could improve muscle regeneration following muscle injury. Taken together, our data indicate that puerarin facilitated myogenesis by promoting migration and differentiation, which suggests puerarin as a new candidate drug for the treatment of muscle loss diseases.
Sex-Specific Differences in the Pathophysiology of Hypertension
Authors: Zhang Hannah , Singal Pawan K. , Ravandi Amir , Rabinovich-Nikitin Inna
Published: January 2025

Hypertension is one of the most common comorbidities in cardiometabolic diseases, affecting nearly one third of adults. As a result, its pathophysiological mechanisms have been studied extensively and are focused around pressure natriuresis, the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), the sympathetic nervous system, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. Additionally, hypertension secondary to other underlying etiologies also exists. While clinical evidence has clearly shown differences in hypertension development in males and females, relatively little is known about the pathophysiological mechanisms behind these differences. Sex hormones likely play a key role, as they modulate many factors related to hypertension development. In this review, we postulate the potential role for sexually dimorphic fat metabolism in the physiology of hypertension. In brief, estrogen promotes subcutaneous fat deposition over visceral fat and increases in mass via adaptive hyperplasia rather than pathogenic hypertrophy. This adipose tissue subsequently produces anti-inflammatory effects and inhibits metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and RAS activation, ultimately leading to decreased levels of hypertension in pre-menopausal females. On the other hand, androgens and the lack of estrogens promote visceral and ectopic fat deposition, including in the liver, and lead to increased circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and potentially subsequent RAS activation and hypertension development in males and post-menopausal females. Understanding the sex-specific differences in fat metabolism may provide deeper insights into the patho-mechanisms associated with hypertension and lead to more comprehensive sex-specific care.
Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Repair with Suture Tape Augmentation Can Yield Good Midterm Clinical Outcomes Regardless of Skeletal Maturity and Joint Laxity
Authors: Takada Shinichiro , Nakashima Hirotaka , Nakayama Keisuke , Uchida Soshi
Published: January 2025

While several studies have reported short-term clinical outcomes after medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) repair with suture tape augmentation, there is still a dearth of knowledge regarding midterm clinical outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the midterm clinical outcomes of MPFL repair with suture tape augmentation in patients with patellar dislocation. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of patients who underwent MPFL repair with suture tape augmentation for at least one episode of patellar dislocation between 2015 and 2020. Patient-reported clinical outcomes (PROs) were evaluated via the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and the knee injury osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS). In total, 17 knees (4 males and 13 females) who underwent MPFL repair with suture tape augmentation with a mean follow-up of 54.6 ± 19.5 months were included in this study. PROs significantly improved from preoperatively to the final follow-up (IKDC score: 50.7 ± 26.6 vs. 88.8 ± 13.0, p < 0.001; KOOS: 68.8 ± 23.3 vs. 91.2 ± 8.4, p = 0.011) without reducing the patient’s activity level at the final follow-up (UCLA AS score: 7.9 ± 2.4 at preinjury vs. 7.9 ± 2.2 at the final follow-up, p = 0.655). Subgroup analysis revealed good postoperative outcomes, regardless of the patient’s skeletal maturity or the presence or absence of generalized laxity. In conclusion, MPFL repair with suture tape augmentation is a safe and effective treatment for midterm follow-up.
Transcriptional Pathways Predisposing to Cancer Oxidative Stress Sensitivity and Resistance Are Shared Between Hydrogen Peroxide and Cold Gas Plasma but Not Hypochlorous Acid
Authors: Singer Debora , Bekeschus Sander
Published: January 2025

Oxidative stress is universal to all cell types, including cancer. It is elicited by a surplus of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or a reduced cellular ability to defend against those. At low levels (oxidative eustress), this induces altered cellular signaling, while at higher levels (oxidative distress), cellular toxicity and non-specific redox signaling become apparent. While oxidation-induced cell death is a hallmark of many cancer therapies, including ROS-producing radiotherapy, some chemotherapies and targeted therapies, photodynamic therapy, and recently emerging physical modalities such as medical gas plasma (a multi-ROS generating technology), less is known about the transcriptional profiles predisposing cancer cells to oxidative demise. In particular, which genes are associated with resistance or sensitivity to ROS overload and subsequent toxicity has not been systematically investigated. Moreover, it is unclear if there are differences between oxidant types, such as hydrogen peroxide and hypochlorous acid. To this end, we here employed 35 cell lines of various origins (e.g., adenocarcinoma, melanoma, leukemia, squamous cell carcinoma, and neuroblastoma). We first performed in-house transcriptomic analysis to assess baseline transcriptional profiles. Second, all cell lines were exposed to four different ROS concentrations of either hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorous, or gas plasma exposure. Third, correlation analysis was performed to identify genes associated with (i) oxidative stress sensitivity, (ii) oxidative stress resistance, and (iii) similarities and/or differences between the different oxidative stress inducers. Intriguingly, distinct gene sets were found for all treatments, and there was a striking difference between hydrogen peroxide and hypochlorous acid, suggesting different modes of action of both oxidants.
Inhibiting Autophagy by Chemicals During SCAPs Osteodifferentiation Elicits Disorganized Mineralization, While the Knock-Out of Atg5/7 Genes Leads to Cell Adaptation
Authors: Le Nihouannen Damien , Boiziau Claudine , Rey Sylvie , Agadzhanian Nicole , Dusserre Nathalie , Cordelières Fabrice , Priault Muriel , Boeuf Helene
Published: January 2025

SCAPs (Stem Cells from Apical Papilla), derived from the apex of forming wisdom teeth, extracted from teenagers for orthodontic reasons, belong to the MSCs (Mesenchymal Stromal Cells) family. They have multipotent differentiation capabilities and are a potentially powerful model for investigating strategies of clinical cell therapies. Since autophagy—a regulated self-eating process—was proposed to be essential in osteogenesis, we investigated its involvement in the SCAP model. By using a combination of chemical and genetic approaches to inhibit autophagy, we studied early and late events of osteoblastic differentiation. We showed that blocking the formation of autophagosomes with verteporfin did not induce a dramatic alteration in early osteoblastic differentiation monitored by ALP (alkaline phosphatase) activity. However, blocking the autophagy flux with bafilomycin A1 led to ALP repression. Strikingly, the mineralization process was observed with both compounds, with calcium phosphate (CaP) nodules that remained inside cells under bafilomycin A1 treatment and numerous but smaller CaP nodules after verteporfin treatment. In contrast, deletion of Atg5 or Atg7, two genes involved in the formation of autophagosomes and essential to trigger canonical autophagy, indicated that both genes could be involved differently in the mineralization process with a modification of the ALP activity while final mineralization was not altered.
Phenotypic Presentation of Children with Joint Hypermobility: Preclinical Signs
Authors: Lamari Mateus Marino , Lamari Neuseli Marino , de Medeiros Michael Peres , de Araújo Filho Gerardo Maria , Santos Adriana Barbosa , Giacomini Matheus Gomes , Marques Vitor Roberto Pugliesi , Goloni-Bertollo Eny Maria , Pavarino Érika Cristina
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Joint hypermobility (JH) is mobility beyond the normal range of motion. JH can be an isolated finding or a characteristic of a syndrome. Characteristics related to the sitting position with atypical body positions, such as sitting in splits (S), with the foot on the head (F), in W (W), in a concave shape (C), episodes of dislocations, and subluxations, suggest impacts on body mechanics since childhood, with damage to the conformation of the joints. Objectives: Identify preclinical signs of JH, in addition to Beighton Score (BS), through signs that are easily recognized early by pediatricians and family members to avoid possible joint deformities in the future. Methods: The medical records of 124 children (59.7% girls) between one and nine years old were analyzed. JH was assessed using the BS, a history of luxations/subluxations, and the concave (C), “W”, “splits” (S), and foot (F) on head sitting positions. Results: The concave sitting position was the most common, followed by W, F, and S in decreasing order. A total of 52.4% of the children had BS > 6, with a higher prevalence among girls (60.8%) compared to boys (40.0%); a difference statistically significant (p = 0.024, Fisher’s exact test). Thirty-two patients (27.4%) had luxations/subluxations with the higher scores. Conclusions: Sitting in S, F, W, and C positions are preclinical phenotypic characteristics of JH, easily identified by pediatricians and family members to prevent possible joint deformities. BS ≥ 6 is more frequently observed in all positions. The majority of the total sample has BS > 6, with a significant female gender influence. Among those with a history of occasional joint dislocations and subluxations, half of them have the highest BS scores.
Research on TPS-SBS Composite-Modified Asphalt with High Viscosity and High Elasticity in Cold Regions
Authors: Wang Dong , Feng Decheng , Chen Zhiguo , Liu Zengxin , Zhang Wenhui , Lei Junwen , Yao Dongdong , Yi Junyan , Pei Zhongshi
Published: January 2025

Considering the harsh service environment of asphalt pavements in cold regions, there is an urgent need to develop high-viscosity, and high-elasticity modified asphalt. This study focuses on the composite modification effects of SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) and TPS (TAFPACK-Super) modifiers. A multivariate regression analysis model was established to evaluate the effects of different external additive proportions on the properties of high-viscosity and high-elasticity modified asphalt, including softening point, penetration, ductility, and dynamic viscosity. The results indicate that the constructed quadratic nonlinear regression models exhibit excellent goodness of fit (0.929, 0.994, 0.882, and 0.939), verifying their reliability. The model further elucidates the influence patterns of different materials on asphalt properties: SBS has the greatest impact on the softening point and dynamic viscosity, TPS significantly enhances ductility, while aromatic oil primarily affects penetration. By considering performance and cost, an optimized formulation for TPS-SBS composite-modified asphalt was determined: 9% SBS, 1% TPS, and 3% aromatic oil. Validation tests demonstrate that the modified asphalt prepared with the optimal formulation meets all performance criteria, with a dynamic viscosity of 55.32 × 104 Pa·s at 60 °C. Additionally, this composite-modified asphalt exhibits excellent aging resistance, construction workability, and high-temperature stability, providing scientific support and reference for the development of durable asphalt pavements in cold regions.
Combinatorial Deposition and Wear Testing of HiPIMS W-C Films
Authors: Kohlscheen Joern , Bareiss Christian
Published: January 2025

We used high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) to deposit tungsten carbide films for superior wear protection in abrasive environments. In order to sample different W-to-C ratios more efficiently, a combinatorial approach was chosen. A single sputter target with two equal segments was used, consisting of an upper tungsten and lower graphite segment. This allowed us to vertically sample various elemental compositions in just one deposition run without creating graphitic nano-layers by rotating the substrate holder. The substrate bias voltage, being one of the most effective process parameters in physical vapor deposition (PVD), was applied in both constant and pulsed modes (the latter synchronized to the target pulse). A direct comparison of the different modes has not been performed so far for HiPIMS W-C (separated W and C targets). The resulting coating properties were mainly analyzed by nano-hardness testing and X-ray diffraction. In general, the W2C phase prevailed in tungsten-rich coatings with pulsed bias, leading to slightly higher tungsten contents. Hardness reached maximum values of up to 35 GPa in the center region between the two segments, where a mix of W2C and WC1-x phases occurs. With pulsed bias, voltage hardnesses are slightly higher, especially for tungsten-rich films. In those cases, compressive stress was also found to be higher when compared to constant bias. Erosive wear testing by blasting with alumina grit showed that the material removal rate followed basically the coating’s hardness but surprisingly reached minimum wear loss for W2C single-phase films just before maximum hardness. In contrast to previous findings, low friction that requires higher carbon contents of at least 50 at. % is not favorable for this type of wear.
Photostability of Indium Phthalocyanines in Organic Solvents
Authors: Dyrda Gabriela Maria , Pędziński Tomasz
Published: January 2025

The effects of photochemical reactions induced by UV radiation in solutions of metal phthalocyanines were carried out to determine the factors that might influence the photostability of photosensitized phthalocyanines. Three different indium phthalocyanines, including the diindium triple-decker phthalocyanine, In2Pc3 (1), sandwich indium phthalocyanine, InPc2 (2) and iodoindium phthalocyanine, InPcI (3) in benzene, N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dichloromethane (DCM) and 1-chloronaphtalene, were studied. The rate of decay of absorption is explained by a decomposition reaction that is of first-order kinetics with respect to the phthalocyanine concentration. In general, the presence of ligand I− in phthalocyanine InPcI enhances the rate of decomposition. The kinetics of the degradation process proved to depend on the molecular structure of the complex and seems to be controlled by interactions of the macrocycle bridging nitrogen atoms with the solvent molecules. The indium phthalocyanines in benzene displayed the capacity for singlet oxygen generation.
A Case Series Report on Superficial Application of Polydensified Cohesive Matrix Hyaluronic Acid Through Biopsies
Authors: Garcia Marcela Engracia , da Cunha Marisa Gonzaga , Antonio Ana Maria do Amaral , Pinhal Maria Aparecida Silva
Published: January 2025

The skin comprises three main layers: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The dermis is formed by connective tissue with an extracellular matrix composed of glycosaminoglycans and collagen fibers, providing skin resistance. During aging, the loss of the skin’s biomechanical properties results in sagging. Exogenous hyaluronic acid is highly used as a filler. However, few studies using biopsies have demonstrated its action as a dermal remodeler and collagen stimulator in superficial applications and using polidensified cohesive gel. Methods: Skin tissues obtained from biopsies in the patient’s arms were evaluated for histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses, in addition to clinical assessments by skin ultrasound. Biopsies were performed at time zero, three, and six months after intradermal injection of hyaluronic acid with a polydensified cohesive matrix in four women of different age groups. Results: The individual results showed hyaluronic acid synthesis, an increase in type I and III collagen, and a thickening of the dermal layer after the treatment. Conclusion: In four thirty-five to sixty-year-old patients, we observed the effectiveness of using polydensified cohesive matrix hyaluronic acid as a collagen stimulator, thickening the dermis and stimulating endogenous hyaluronic acid synthesis. This study highlights the importance of individual analysis of the variables studied.