bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Managing Cancer Treatment Complications: A Safety Evaluation
Authors: Canarslan Demir Kubra , Avci Ahmet Ugur , Ozgok Kangal Munire Kubra , Ceylan Berrin , Abayli Selcen Yusra , Ozler Ismail , Yilmaz Kerim Bora
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has shown promise in managing complications due to cancer treatments, particularly those related to radiotherapy and surgery. Despite its clinical benefits, concerns persist regarding its potential to influence cancer progression. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and clinical outcomes of HBOT in patients with active or previously treated solid tumors. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with solid tumors who underwent at least five HBOT sessions. Comprehensive data, including patient demographics, cancer type, total number of HBOT sessions, imaging findings, and clinical outcomes (recurrence, metastasis, and mortality), were collected. Descriptive statistics and the relationship between the number of HBOT sessions and long-term cancer outcomes were analyzed. Results: This study included 45 patients (median age: 64 years; 60% male) who received a median of 27 HBOT sessions. At initiation, 27.9% of the patients were classified as cured, 53.5% were in remission, and 18.6% had active cancer. Over a median follow-up period of 783 days, 8.7% experienced recurrence, 2.7% had persistent active cancer, and 59.5% had no recurrence. No HBOT-related complications were observed during the course of HBOT. Statistical analyses revealed no significant correlations between the number of HBOT sessions and metastasis (p = 0.213) or mortality (p = 0.881). Conclusions: HBOT appears to be a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for managing complications in patients with solid tumors. No evidence was found to suggest HBOT contributes to tumor progression, recurrence, or metastasis. Future prospective studies with larger cohorts are needed to confirm these results and further evaluate the therapeutic role of HBOT in oncology.
Prognostic Differences Between Early-Onset and Late-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ionescu Vlad Alexandru , Gheorghe Gina , Baban Ioana-Alexandra , Barbu Alexandru , Georgescu Teodor Florin , Tiuca Loredana-Crista , Iacobus Ninel Antonie , Diaconu Camelia Cristina
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Early-onset colorectal cancer (EO-CRC) has become a significant public health concern due to its alarming rise in incidence and the poor prognosis associated with this disease. The aim of our study was to identify epidemiological, clinical, and paraclinical characteristics that could explain the more aggressive evolution of EO-CRC compared to late-onset colorectal cancer (LO-CRC). Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study over a two-year period, including 204 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC). The patients were divided into two subgroups: those with EO-CRC and those with LO-CRC. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 29.0. Results: EO-CRC was identified in 11.3% of the patients included in the study. Compared to LO-CRC patients, EO-CRC patients exhibited a tendency for more distal tumor localization and a stenotic endoscopic appearance (43.5% vs. 29.3%). Regarding histopathological diagnosis, EO-CRC patients demonstrated a higher proportion of the mucinous histologic subtype (34.8% vs. 14.4%) and a significantly greater percentage of poorly differentiated tumors (39.1% vs. 14.5%; p = 0.010). Immunohistochemical results, available for a limited number of patients, revealed higher CDX2 positivity in LO-CRC patients (p = 0.012) and higher HER2 positivity in EO-CRC patients (p = 0.002). Smoking (p = 0.006) and hypertension (p = 0.002) were more prevalent in EO-CRC patients than in LO-CRC patients. Conclusions: Patients with EO-CRC exhibit distinct histopathological and molecular characteristics compared to those with LO-CRC, which may contribute to their poorer prognoses. The higher prevalence of the mucinous histological subtype, poor tumor differentiation, increased HER2 expression, and reduced CDX2 expression suggest potential molecular pathways driving the aggressive nature of EO-CRC. These findings highlight the need for tailored screening strategies and personalized therapeutic approaches in younger CRC patients. Future studies should further investigate the underlying mechanisms and potential biomarkers that could guide early diagnoses and targeted treatments.
Searching for a Solution: A Case Report on Multifocal Ectopic Purkinje-Related Premature Contractions Syndrome
Authors: Keževičiūtė Monika , Bileišienė Neringa , Mikštienė Violeta , Marinskis Germanas , Barysienė Jūratė
Published: February 2025

Multifocal ectopic Purkinje-related premature contractions (MEPPC) syndrome is a recently recognized rare form of arrhythmia involving the entire His–Purkinje system and often coinciding with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Certain variants in the SCN5A gene may be linked to MEPPC syndrome. We present a case of a 32-year-old Caucasian female who exhibited a high burden of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and non-sustained episodes of ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) with an alternating QRS pattern, and who was resistant to traditional medical therapy and radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA), necessitating implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). A positive family history (father’s death at the age of 40 years) and the rapid deterioration of left ventricular function parameters echocardiographically during recurrent arrhythmic episodes raised concern about a potentially complex disease scenario. Genetic testing revealed a heterozygous variant of the SCN5A gene, c.2440C>T, p.(Arg814Trp), confirming the diagnosis of MEPPC syndrome. Treatment with a combination of class I antiarrhythmic drugs, flecainide and mexiletine, concomitant with beta blockers, led to symptomatic improvement, a reduction of PVCs (from 66 491 (44%) to 858 (1%)), and the restoration of left ventricular function (LV EF from 44% to 53%). A lack of defined diagnostic criteria hampers timely diagnosis, leading to ineffective interventions and delayed initiation of treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs. MEPPC patients remain at significant risk for severe heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Our clinical case report underscores the importance of accurate and timely diagnosis, which allows effective treatment with a combination of antiarrhythmic drugs and mitigates the risk associated with MEPPC syndrome.
Research on Low-Profile Directional Flexible Antenna with 3D Coplanar Waveguide for Partial Discharge Detection
Authors: Mi Yan , Liu Wentao , Peng Yiqin , Deng Lei , Shu Benxiang , Wang Xiaopeng , Li Songyuan
Published: February 2025

Due to the challenges in antenna installation and detection performance caused by metal obstruction along the propagation path at a Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS) cable terminal, as well as the adverse effects of environmental interference on the detection of partial discharge (PD) by existing flexible antennas, this paper proposes a directional flexible antenna design to mitigate these issues and improve detection performance. The proposed design employs a coplanar waveguide (CPW)-fed monopole antenna structure, where the grounding plane is extended to the back of the antenna to enhance directional reception. The designed flexible antenna measures 88.5 × 70 × 20 mm, and its low-profile design allows it to be easily mounted on the outer wall of the epoxy sleeve at the GIS cable terminal. The measurement results show that the flexible antenna has a Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) of less than 2 in the 0.541–3 GHz frequency range. It also maintains stable impedance characteristics across various bending radii, with an average effective height of 10.79 mm in the 0.3–1.5 GHz frequency range. A GIS cable terminal PD experimental platform was established, and the experimental results demonstrate that the bending has minimal impact on the detection performance of the flexible antenna, which can cover the detection range of the GIS cable terminal; metal obstruction significantly impacts the PD signal amplitude, and the designed flexible antenna is suitable for detecting PDs in confined spaces with metal obstruction.
The Composition and Function of Bacterial Communities Associated with the Northern Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne hapla) Populations Showing Parasitic Variability
Authors: Lartey Isaac , Benucci Gian M. N. , Marsh Terence L. , Bonito Gregory M. , Melakeberhan Haddish
Published: February 2025

The co-existence of microbial communities and Meloidogyne hapla populations showing high, medium, and low levels of parasitic variability (PV) in mineral and muck soils with different soil health conditions in Michigan vegetable production fields is established. However, if PV relates or not to bacterial communities is unknown. This study characterized bacterial communities present on and in the body of nine M. hapla field and greenhouse sub-populations isolated from the mineral and muck fields. We utilized a high throughput sequencing of 16S rDNA. Results showed a variable composition (or abundance) of 65 genera in the field and 61 genera in the greenhouse isolates, with 12 genera of unknown and the rest belonging to 14 known functional groups. The medium- and low-PV populations shared more bacterial composition than either one with the high-PV population. Thus, laying a foundation for an in-depth understanding of if the observed associations have any role in cause-and-effect relationships with M. hapla PV.
Phenotypic and Molecular Characterization of Pyomelanin-Producing Acinetobacter baumannii ST2Pas;ST1816/ST195Oxf Causing the First European Nosocomial Outbreak
Authors: Leonildi Alessandro , Rosellini Alfredo , Gemignani Giulia , Tiseo Giusy , Falcone Marco , Giordano Cesira , Barnini Simona
Published: February 2025

Acinetobacter baumannii is one of the most successful and feared nosocomial pathogens. A. baumannii is considered a global threat in the healthcare setting, mainly owing to its ability to acquire multidrug resistance phenotypes. The A. baumannii pathogenesis is guided by its environmental persistence, as well as the production of numerous virulence factors. In several bacteria, the production of pigments, such as melanin, has indeed been linked with virulence and pathogenicity. Melanin is a brownish pigment, rarely observed in A. baumannii, that potentially reduces the susceptibility of the bacteria to host defense mechanisms and environmental insults. This study reports the first outbreak in Europe by pyomelanin-producing A. baumannii strains, in a tertiary-care university hospital in Pisa, Italy. Phenotypic and molecular analyses were performed.
The Performance of a Multi-Stage Surface Flow Constructed Wetland for the Treatment of Aquaculture Wastewater and Changes in Epiphytic Biofilm Formation
Authors: Chao Chuanxin , Gong Shen , Xie Yonghong
Published: February 2025

Constructed wetlands play a critical role in mitigating aquaculture wastewater pollution. However, the comprehensive treatment performance of aquatic plants and microorganisms under various water treatment processes remains insufficiently understood. Here, a multi-stage surface flow constructed wetland (SFCW) comprising four different aquatic plant species, along with aeration and biofiltration membrane technologies, was investigated to explore the combined effects of aquatic plants and epiphytic biofilms on wastewater removal efficiency across different vegetation periods and treatment processes. The results demonstrated that the total removal efficiency consistently exceeded 60% in both vegetation periods, effectively intercepting a range of pollutants present in aquaculture wastewater. Changes in the vegetation period influenced the performance of the SFCW, with the system’s ability to treat total nitrogen becoming more stable over time. The removal efficiency of the treatment pond planted with submerged plants was highest in July, while the pond planted with emergent plants showed an increased removal rate in November. The aeration pond played a significant role in enhancing dissolved oxygen levels, thereby improving phosphorus removal in July and nitrogen removal in November. Additionally, the α-diversity of epiphytic bacteria in the aeration and biofiltration ponds was significantly higher compared to other ponds. In terms of bacterial composition, the abundance of Firmicutes was notably higher in July, whereas Nitrospirota and Acidobacteriota exhibited a significant increase in November. Furthermore, the functional genes associated with sulfur metabolism, nitrogen fixation, and oxidative phosphorylation displayed significant temporal variations in the aeration pond, highlighting that both growth period changes and treatment processes influence the expression of functional genes within biofilms. Our findings suggest that the integration of water treatment processes in SFCWs enhances the synergistic effects between aquatic plants and microorganisms, helping to mitigate the adverse impacts of vegetation period changes and ensuring stable and efficient wastewater treatment performance.
Comparison of the Transformation Ability of the Major Saponins in Panax notoginseng by Penicillum fimorum Enzyme and Commercial β-glucosidase
Authors: Li Feixing , Zhang Ruixue , Lin Dongmei , Yang Jin , Yang Ye , Cui Xiuming , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2025

Ginsenosides with less sugar groups, which are called minor ginsenosides, might have a greater pharmacological activity and better adsorptive ability, but their content in nature is extremely low. In this study, a strain of Penicillium fimorum with a strong saponin transformation ability was isolated from fresh Gastrodia elata. A comparative biotransformation experiment of the major saponins from Panax notoginseng root were conducted using crude enzymes from P. fimorum and commercial β-glucosidase to produce minor ginsenosides. Specifically, the crude enzyme from P. fimorum was able to transform the major saponins from P. notoginseng root into 13 minor saponins in 72 h, while commercial β-glucosidase was able to transform the same major saponins into 15 minor saponins in 72 h. The most significant difference between these two enzymes is their ability to transform Rb1. To the best of our knowledge, the biotransformation ability of crude enzymes from P. fimorum is reported here for the first time. These two enzymes have the potential to improve the economic value of P. notoginseng root and expand the methods for preparing minor saponins by transforming major saponins in the total saponins of P. notoginseng root.
Effect of Temperature on Corrosion of L245 Steel Under CO2-SRB Corrosion System
Authors: Sun Ming , Wang Xinhua , Cui Wei , Shi Chuntao
Published: February 2025

Microorganisms are often observed in the produced medium during the oil and gas extraction process. Corrosion caused by CO2 and microorganisms is found on the inner wall of the metal gathering pipelines during the production process. In order to explore the corrosion characteristics of L245 materials under the combined action of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and CO2, a CO2-SRB corrosion system was established in this paper. Experimental research on corrosion rate, surface morphology, and corrosion products analysis was conducted. The effect of temperature on the corrosion of SRB while CO2 is saturated and the partial pressure is 0.06 MPa was investigated. It was observed that the corrosion is more serious in the CO2-SRB corrosion system than that in the single CO2 corrosion system. At 40 °C, the corrosion caused by CO2 is 0.0597 mm/a, and the corrosion caused by SRB is 0.0766 mm/a. So, more attention should be paid to the corrosion status of gathering pipelines with microorganisms. Further, the activity of SRB is stronger when the temperature of the medium is 40 °C, and corrosion on L245 samples is more obvious under the experimental conditions in this article. In order to reduce the corrosion damage of metal pipelines with microorganisms, the temperature should be well controlled to reduce the activity of SRB during the production process.
Coupled Dissolution with Reprecipitation (CDR) Reactions and Their Impact on Copper Sulphide Mineral Surface Area and Dissolution Rates
Authors: Ansah Eric O. , Black Jay R. , Haese Ralf R.
Published: February 2025

Copper is a critical metal required for green energy technologies such as wind turbines and solar cells. However, copper supply is limited by copper recovery from primary copper sulphides (e.g., chalcopyrite-CuFeS2) due to passivating reaction products. Therefore, this study examined surface ‘passivation’ of primary copper sulphide minerals undergoing coupled dissolution with reprecipitation (CDR) reactions and the associated mineral surface changes in acidic and chloride-rich lixiviants (FeCl3-only, AlCl3-rich, NaCl-rich, and CaCl2-rich lixiviants). Acidic FeCl3-only, NaCl-rich, and CaCl2-rich lixiviants resulted in only bornite dissolution and the formation of a residual Cu-S phase and Fe-SO4 phase on the chalcopyrite surface. In contrast, leaching with the AlCl3-rich lixiviant resulted in both chalcopyrite and bornite dissolution with limited hydrolysis of Fe3+ to Fe-hydroxy sulphates and minimal Fe3+ flux inhibition to the copper sulphide minerals surface due to the ion exchange mechanism between Al3+ and Fe3+. Further, there was preferential formation of an Al-SO4 phase at consistently high Eh and acidity, thereby a high availability of Fe3+ in solution for enhanced copper dissolution from both bornite and chalcopyrite. These findings could serve as a reference for coupled dissolution with reprecipitation reactions during copper sulphide leaching, offering a pathway to more efficient and sustainable copper extraction from low-grade ores.
Application of Spectrofluorimetry to Evaluate Quality Changes in Stored Blue Honeysuckle Berry (Lonicera kamtschatica) Preserves
Authors: Banaś Joanna , Michalczyk Magdalena , Banaś Marian
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to use a rapid and non-invasive spectrofluorimetric method to evaluate the qualitative changes occurring in stored Kamchatka berry preserves. Honeysuckle berries were preserved by freezing (−24 °C) and pasteurisation with and without sugar addition. Pasteurised samples were stored at 6 ± 1 °C and 22 ± 1 °C for 9 months. During storage, spectrofluorimetric spectra in the bioactive compounds’ fluorescence range were registered. The obtained synchronous spectra were used in a statistical analysis involving principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The analysis of both types of registered spectra indicated that sugar addition could stabilise some phenolic compounds, like gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, and phloridzin. Moreover, some differences in the degradation rate of each analysed compound were observed depending on the preservation method used. Besides the phenolic compounds, other fluorescent compounds like B-vitamins and chlorophyll forms were also observed. Pasteurisation caused the distinct degradation of protochlorophyll forms, whereas practically no changes in the amounts of vitamins B3 and B9 were observed. Based on the results of statistical analyses of PCA and LDA, the effect on the products’ composition was moderate for the storage time and relatively low in the case of the storage temperature. The obtained results indicated that spectrofluorimetry would be a useful method for the detailed characterisation of fruit products.
Supercritical CO2 Extraction of Oleoresin from Peruvian Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): Extraction Yield, Polyphenol Content, Antioxidant Capacity, Chemical Analysis and Storage Stability
Authors: Cárdenas-Toro Fiorella P. , Meza-Coaquira Jennifer H. , Gonzalez-Gonzalez Monserrat , Carrera Ceferino , Fernández Barbero Gerardo
Published: February 2025

In this study, we performed supercritical CO2 extraction of oleoresin from Peruvian ginger, focusing on the extraction yield, total polyphenol content, antioxidant capacity, and contents of gingerol and shogaol. The temperature (40 to 50 °C), pressure (80 to 250 bar), CO2 flow rate (2 and 8 ft3/h) and extraction time (10 to 360 min) were evaluated in three steps. The extraction yield was influenced by the temperature, pressure, flow rate and extraction time. Oleoresin extracts were obtained from 150 to 250 bar. The supercritical extraction conditions selected for the recovery of the oleoresin extract were 50 °C, 250 bar, 8 ft3/h and 360 min, resulting in an extraction yield of 25.99 ± 0.13 mg extracts/g dry basis, a total polyphenol content of 171.65 ± 2.12 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g extract, an antioxidant capacity expressed as a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 1.02 ± 0.01 mg extract/mL methanol and a Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) value of 368.14 ± 60.95 mg Trolox/g extract. The contents of gingerols and shogaols in the supercritical extract were 254.71 ± 33.79 mg of 6-gingerol/g extract, 24.46 ± 3.41 mg of 6-shogaol/g extract, 9.63 ± 2.51 mg of 8-gingerol/g extract, 51.01 ± 9.39 mg of 8-shogaol/g extract, 27.47 ± 5.06 mg of 10-gingerol/g extract and 20.11 ± 4.62 mg of 10-shogaol/g extract. There was no reduction in the total polyphenol content or antioxidant capacity according to the IC50 and FRAP assays, under storage conditions of 0 °C, 20 °C and 40 °C after 180 days; this indicates that the oleoresin obtained using supercritical CO2 extraction could be used as an additive in food products.
Study on Design, Synthesis and Herbicidal Activity of Novel 4-Amino-6-(5-Aryl-Substituted-1-Pyrazolyl)-3-Chloro-5-Fluoro-2-Picolinic Acids
Authors: Li Huiting , Wei Wei , Shi Rongchuan , Gou Yunhan , Li Xiaofei , Li Chengyang , Li Yiqun , Cao Yiming , Liu Shangzhong
Published: February 2025

6-Aryl-2-picolinic acid herbicides are an important subclass of auxin herbicides, characterized by their good absorption and conductivity, broad weed control spectrum, and excellent herbicidal activity against some resistant weeds. Based on previous studies from our group and the distinct characteristics of physico-chemical properties and biological activities of active skeleton structure containing fluorine atoms, this paper introduces the design and synthesis of 41 novel 4-amino-6-(5-aryl-substituted-1-pyrazolyl)-3-chloro-5-fluoro-2-picolinic acid compounds. The test of inhibiting A. thaliana roots growth showed that most of the S-series compounds exhibited superior inhibitory effects compared to picloram, with six compounds demonstrated even better inhibitory capability than the new herbicidal molecule florpyrauxifen. For example, compound S202, at a concentration of 0.5 µmol/L, exhibited a 78.4% inhibition of A. thaliana root growth, whereas florpyrauxifen showed only a 33.8% inhibition. Root growth inhibition tests on weeds showed that 28 compounds, at a concentration of 250 µM, demonstrated a greater than 80% inhibition of Brassica napus (BN) root growth. Post-emergence herbicidal activity tests showed that most compounds exhibited good inhibitory effects on broadleaf weeds, with 10 compounds achieving a 100% inhibition of the growth of Amaranthus retroflexus L (AL). These results demonstrate that some of the 4-amino-6-(5-aryl-substituted-1-pyrazolyl)-3-chloro-5-fluoro-2-picolinic acid compounds could be used as potential lead structures in the discovery of novel synthetic auxin herbicides.
Essential Oil from Curcuma Longa Leaves: Using Nanotechnology to Make a Promising Eco-Friendly Bio-Based Pesticide from Medicinal Plant Waste
Authors: Flexa-Ribeiro Bianca , Garcia Manoel D. N. , Silva Ana Carolina de J. , Carvalho José Carlos T. , Rocha Leandro , Faustino Silvia Maria M. , Fernandes Caio P. , da Silva Hellen F. , Machado Francisco P. , Hage-Melim Lorane Izabel da S. , Souto Raimundo Nonato P. , Botas Gisele da S. , Cruz Rodrigo A. S.
Published: February 2025

Nano-emulsions of essential oils (EO) and their chemical constituents are promising raw materials for the ecological control of Tribolium castaneum. Curcuma longa L. is a plant known for the properties of its rhizome, which is used in food, health, and hygiene products. Although its leaves are considered by-products with no commercial value, they produce an essential oil rich in bioactive monoterpenoids. This study aims to evaluate the repellency of nano-emulsions containing the EO from leaves of C. longa or its three main chemical constituents against T. castaneum. The representative mixture of EO extracted in four different months showed p-cymene (26.0%), 1,8-cineole (15.1%), and terpinolene (15.5%) as major compounds. Nano-emulsions of EO (HLB 16.7), terpinolene (HLB 15.0), 1,8-cineole (HLB15.0), and p-cymene (HLB 15.0) were repellent at concentrations of 11 μg/cm2 (EO, terpinolene, and p-cymene) and 1.1 μg/cm2 (1,8-cineole). The EO nano-emulsion droplet size increased linearly over time, remaining below 300 nm for 35 days. The EO nano-emulsion proved to be a green alternative to synthetic pesticides, as it was safe against the bioindicator Chlorella vulgaris. Furthermore, its main constituents were able to inhibit in silico the enzyme telomerase of T. castaneum, which is an enzyme essential for life. This study provides ideas for the utilization of EO from leaves of C. longa as raw material for new environmentally friendly plant-derived nanobiopesticides.
Diverse Structures of Tea Polyphenols from Rougui Wuyi Rock Tea and Their Potential as Inhibitor of 3C-like Protease
Authors: Sun Qing , Chen Xiaojuan , Zhang Jie , Song Juan , Yao Lan , Zhao Yang , Yang Guang , Wang Xiu , Liang Haizhen , Ma Baiping
Published: February 2025

Tea polyphenols, the primary bioactive constituents responsible for the various health benefits of tea, can be categorized into different subgroups according to their structural characteristics. However, the distinctions in antiviral activity among the diverse types of polyphenolic compounds remain unexplored. In the present study, fifty-eight tea polyphenols with varied structures, including eleven undescribed compounds, were isolated from Rougui Wuyi rock tea. Their molecular structures were elucidated using comprehensive analytical approaches of NMR, HRMS, CD spectroscopic data and acid hydrolysis. The isolated polyphenol analogs could be structurally classified into two main categories: flavan-3-ols, which include catechins, flavoalkaloids, procyanidins and theasinensins, and flavones, encompassing kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, and their respective glycosides. The inhibitory activities of fifty-eight tea polyphenols against 3CLpro were assessed in vitro, and eighteen phenolic compounds exhibited inhibitory effects on 3CLpro, with IC50 values ranging from 9.8 μM to 61.1 μM. Among them, two types of tea polyphenols, catechin and flavoalkaloid derivatives, demonstrated superior inhibitory effects compared to other categories. The structure-activity relationship was further explored, and molecular docking analysis revealed that the differing inhibitory effects of catechin and flavoalkaloid derivatives were attributed to the variations in the number and positions of the hydrogen bond interactions with 3CLpro. This study provides a valuable understanding of tea polyphenols and supplies potential lead compounds for antiviral drugs.
Functional Nucleic Acid Nanostructures for Mitochondrial Targeting: The Basis of Customized Treatment Strategies
Authors: He Wanchong , Dong Siyu , Zeng Qinghua
Published: February 2025

Mitochondria, as vital organelles, play a central role in subcellular research and biomedical innovation. Although functional nucleic acid (FNA) nanostructures have witnessed remarkable progress across numerous biological applications, strategies specifically tailored to target mitochondria for molecular imaging and therapeutic interventions remain scarce. This review delves into the latest advancements in leveraging FNA nanostructures for mitochondria-specific imaging and cancer therapy. Initially, we explore the creation of FNA-based biosensors localized to mitochondria, enabling the real-time detection and visualization of critical molecules essential for mitochondrial function. Subsequently, we examine developments in FNA nanostructures aimed at mitochondrial-targeted cancer treatments, including modular FNA nanodevices for the precise delivery of therapeutic agents and programmable FNA nanostructures for disrupting mitochondrial processes. Emphasis is placed on elucidating the chemical principles underlying the design of mitochondrial-specific FNA nanotechnology for diverse biomedical uses. Lastly, we address the unresolved challenges and outline prospective directions, with the goal of advancing the field and encouraging the creation of sophisticated FNA tools for both academic inquiry and clinical applications centered on mitochondria.
Endophytic Fungal Diversity and Its Interaction Mechanism with Medicinal Plants
Authors: Gao Yuan , Xu Yan , Dong Zhijia , Guo Yuyang , Luo Jianghan , Wang Fuling , Yan Lijun , Zou Xiang
Published: February 2025

This paper reviewed the diversity of endophytic fungi and their interactions with medicinal plants, along with the research methodologies utilized to investigate these interactions. It mainly includes the diversity of endophytic fungi, as well as distribution diversity, species diversity, and the diversity of their metabolites and functions, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, insecticidal, antioxidant capabilities, and so on. The research methodologies employed to investigate the interactions between endophytic fungi and medicinal plants are categorized into metagenomics, transcriptomics, metatranscriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Furthermore, this study anticipates the potential applications of secondary metabolites derived from endophytic fungi in both medicine and agriculture.
Research for a Common Thread: Insights into the Mechanisms of Six Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Varga Dóra , Szentirmai Anna , Szarka András
Published: February 2025

Our research group aimed for the optimization of pharmacologic ascorbate (Ph-Asc)-induced cancer cell death. To reduce the required time and resources needed for development, an in silico system biological approach, an already approved medication, and a mild bioactive compound were used in our previous studies. It was revealed that both Ph-Asc and resveratrol (RES) caused DSBs in the DNA, and chloroquine (CQ) treatment amplified the cytotoxic effect of both Ph-Asc and RES in an autophagy independent way. In the present study, we aimed at the further clarification of the cytotoxic mechanism of Ph-Asc, CQ, and RES by comparing their DNA damaging abilities, effects on the cells’ bioenergetic status, ROS, and lipid ROS generation abilities with those of the three currently investigated compounds (menadione, RSL3, H2O2). It could be assessed that the induction of DSBs is certainly a common point of their mechanism of action; furthermore, the observed cancer cell death due to the investigated treatments are independent of the bioenergetic status. Contrary to other investigated compounds, the DNA damaging effect of CQ seemed to be ROS independent. Surprisingly, the well-known ferroptosis inducer RSL3 was unable to induce lipid peroxidation in the pancreas ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) Mia PaCa-2 cell line. At the same time, it induced DSBs in the DNA, and the RSL3-induced cell death could not be suspended by the well-known ferroptosis inhibitors. All these observations suggest the ferroptosis resistance of this cell line. The observed DNA damaging effect of RSL3 definitely creates a new perspective in anticancer research.
Chemical Composition and Larvicidal Activity Against Aedes aegypti of the Leaf Essential Oils from Croton blanchetianus
Authors: Lopes Pedro Henrique Ribeiro , Pereira Nicaely Maria de Oliveira , da Rocha Matheus Nunes , Marinho Marcia Machado , Guedes Jesyka Macêdo , Rodrigues Tigressa Helena Soares , Do Vale Jean Parcelli Costa , Marinho Emmanuel Silva , Santiago Gilvandete Maria Pinheiro , Santos Hélcio Silva dos
Published: February 2025

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is the primary vector of dengue, a neglected disease and a serious public health problem in tropical countries. The control of this vector has been carried out using chemical insecticides, which impact human health. Thus, it is essential to develop natural larvicides that are less harmful to the environment. This study investigates the circadian cycle and larvicidal activity of essential oils from Croton blanchetianus against Aedes aegypti. The leaf oils were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC–MS and GC–FID. The circadian study revealed variations in the chemical composition of oils extracted at different times of the day. The main constituents were α-pinene, β-phellandrene, eucalyptol, β-caryophyllene, bicyclogermacrene, and spathulenol. The larvicidal activity showed LC50 values at the following different collection times: 55.294 ± 3.209 μg/mL at 08:00 h; 95.485 ± 2.684 μg/mL at 12:00 h; and 64.883 ± 1.780 μg/mL at 17:00 h. Molecular docking simulations indicated that α-pinene, β-phellandrene, eucalyptol, and β-caryophyllene strongly interact with the active site of the sterol carrier protein, suggesting their role in larvicidal activity. These findings reinforce the potential of C. blanchetianus essential oils as an alternative for Aedes aegypti control. The predictive pharmacokinetic tests showed a PAMPA profile associated with high effective cellular permeability and microsomal stability, resulting from the metabolic stability of the derivatives (3) eucalyptol and (6) spathulenol, indicating that these compounds have the highest pharmacokinetic viability and low reactivity with respect to organ toxicity.
Two-Photon Absorption in Twisted Graphene/Hexagonal Boron Nitride Heterojunction Tuned by Vertical Electric Field
Authors: Chen Mengping , Chen Yingliang , Yang Guang , Wang Qiwen , Feng Xiaobo
Published: February 2025

We theoretically investigate the comprehensive modulation effect of interlayer twisting and external electric field to the two-photon absorption (TPA) in twisted graphene/hexagonal boron nitride (tG/hBN) heterojunction with small twist angles (2° < θ < 10°) starting from an effective continuum model. It is found that the TPA of tG/hBN is extended to the visible light band from infrared light band of that in twisted bilayer graphene (tBLG) due to the increase in energy band gap caused by twisting and the potential energy of the boron nitride atomic layer. And the TPA coefficient is enhanced several times via an external electric field, which increases the density of states, leading to an increase transition probability for two-photon absorption.
Evaluating Toxic Interactions of Polystyrene Microplastics with Hazardous and Noxious Substances Using the Early Life Stages of the Marine Bivalve Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Choi Hoon , Hwang Un-Ki , Lee Moonjin , Kim Youn-Jung , Han Taejun
Published: February 2025

Plastics pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems, owing to their slow biodegradability. Microplastics (MPs), in particular, affect marine life and maricultural organisms and can enter the food chain via ingestion by marine organisms, leading to bioaccumulation in predators, including humans. This study assessed the toxic interactions between polystyrene microplastic particles (PSMPs) and cadmium (Cd) and phenanthrene (Phe) using marine bivalves. While PSMPs were non-toxic to Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas), the toxicity of Cd and Phe was concentration-dependent. In most conditions, PSMPs reduced the toxicity of Cd and Phe, but in simultaneous exposure, they acted as Cd messengers, altering the toxicity during the adult stage. This study confirms that PSMPs can interact with coastal environmental pollutants, thereby accelerating biotoxicity and posing a significant threat to marine wildlife, mariculture, and human health. It also highlights the need to assess MP toxicity in coastal environments and their interactions with pollutants.
Mapping the Evolution of IBD Treatment: A Bibliometric Study on Biologics and Small Molecules
Authors: Li Huibo , Wang Jia , Hu Yang , Hu Wei , Li Jun , Liu Yang , Zhao Rongsheng , Zhu Yi Zhun
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This bibliometric analysis investigates recent research trends in biologics and small molecules for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) based on literature from the past decade. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved analyzing data retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database to examine the evolution and thematic trends of biological agents and small-molecular drugs for IBD conducted between 1 January 2014, and 20 September 2024. VOSviewer software was utilized to assess co-authorship, co-occurrence, co-citation, and network visualization, followed by a further discussion on significant sub-themes. Results: From 2014 to 20 September 2024, the annual number of global publications increased by 23%, reflecting an acceleration in research activity. The journal “Inflammatory Bowel Diseases” published the highest number of manuscripts (579 publications) and garnered the most citations (13,632 citations), followed by the “Journal of Crohn’s & Colitis” (480 publications) and “Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics” (250 publications). The United States led in productivity with 1943 publications and 66,320 citations, with UC San Diego (291) and authors Sandborn and Vermeire (180) topping the list. The co-occurrence cluster analysis of the top 100 keywords resulted in the formation of six distinct clusters: Disease Mechanisms, Drug Development, Surgical Interventions, Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM), Immunological Targets, and Emerging Therapies. Burst terms (TNF-α inhibitors, JAK inhibitors, and trough-level optimization) highlight trends toward personalized biologics and small-molecule regimens. Conclusions: The bibliometric analysis indicates that IBD therapeutic research and clinical applications focus on biologics and small molecules, with research trends leaning toward precise therapy conversion or the combination in non-responders. Future work will assess monotherapy, the combination, and conversion therapies and investigate new drugs targeting inflammatory pathways.
Performance Limitations Due to Intra-Core Crosstalk and Nonlinear Interference Noise in Weakly Coupled Multi-Core Fiber Transmission Systems
Authors: Li Wencheng , Xiang Lian , Li Xiaoliu
Published: February 2025

Multi-core fiber (MCF) is expected to be a good candidate to overcome the capacity limit of single-mode single-core fiber. However, only linear inter-crosstalk was considered in the performance of MCF. In this study, the performance of the transmission channel in terms of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in weakly coupled MCF transmission systems is investigated by taking into account the effect of intra-core nonlinear interference noise (NLIN) and nonlinear inter-core crosstalk (NICXT). The SNR is calculated with various MCF system parameters to assess corresponding transmission performance. The results show that the SNR cannot always be improved by increasing the transmitted power in both the SCF and MCF systems. NICXT can deteriorate the performance of the MCF system, obviously, especially when the transmitted power is smaller than the threshold power. Furthermore, this influence is more marked with a small coupling coefficient.
The Promotion of Alternative Crop Production Paradigms Should Be Founded on Proven Science-Based Approaches
Authors: Lenné Jillian , Wood David
Published: February 2025

Recent discourse on the need to adopt alternative approaches to sustainable crop production has strongly criticized modern, usually referred to as “industrial”, agriculture as the main cause of environmental problems and a loss of biodiversity, which is concerning given that modern agriculture currently feeds over 90% of the global population. Ongoing criticisms of modern agriculture have escalated into calls to replace it, largely based on the belief that alternative approaches will lead to sustainable crop production, although food production potential is rarely mentioned. This paper critically analyzes two such alternatives, agroecology and the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS), a sub-set of agroecological approaches with a focus on the Global South. In the case of agroecology, this paper considers the role of diversity in cropping systems and the input reduction paradigm, as well as labor productivity. Modern agriculture already provides a wide range of science-based, proven crop and field diversification options without the need to rely on in-field crop species diversity. Furthermore, a reduction in or the elimination of chemical fertilizers with a preference for compost and manure is not a viable strategy where soils are severely degraded. In the case of the VACS, the planned emphasis on “opportunistic”, locally adapted, traditional/indigenous crops is challenged by the importance of introduced crops to food production, especially in Africa. We conclude by recommending a pragmatic approach to using all of the available agricultural practices wisely to produce enough food in an environmentally responsible manner. Global leadership is needed to bring the divergent views of scientists and environmentalists together to improve food production and nutrition, livelihoods, and the agricultural environment.
Study on Water Resource Carrying Capacity and Crop Structure Optimization Based on Gray Relational Analysis
Authors: Xu Lingyun , Xu Bing , Gao Ruizhong , Wang Guoshuai , Tian Delong , Chen Yuchao , Zhou Jie , Miao Xiangyang , Wang Pingxia
Published: February 2025

This study addresses challenges such as insufficient irrigation water quotas, severe groundwater over-extraction, and conflicts around crop water usage within the mixed-cropping areas of the Inner Mongolia Yellow River Basin. Five evaluation factors—water resource utilization efficiency, irrigation rate, degree of development and utilization, supply modulus, and demand modulus—were selected for a gray relational analysis to assess the 2023 water resource carrying capacity. A crop structure optimization model was developed using machine learning, focusing on minimizing water use while maximizing economic benefits. The results indicate that groundwater resources are nearing critical levels, with many regions showing low carrying capacities and supply–demand conflicts. Key issues include unreasonable planting structures and excessive irrigation quotas, leading to significant water waste. To optimize resource utilization, it is recommended to reduce the food crop planting area by 0.0194 × 104 hm2 and increase economic and forage crops by 0.0106 × 104 hm2 and 0.0116 × 104 hm2, respectively. This adjustment would lead to a total water utilization reduction of 0.0289 × 106 m3 per year, an increase in total yield of 4340.86 tons, and an increase in total economic benefit of CNY 6,559,200, thus leading the cropping structure towards greater rationality. The findings provide valuable insights for optimal water resource allocation in mixed-cropping irrigation areas.
Molecular Mechanisms of Gene Expression Regulation in Response to Heat Stress in Hemerocallis fulva
Authors: Chu Boyan , Liu Weixue , Li Jinxia , Zhang Xiaofei , Li Ping
Published: February 2025

Hemerocallis fulva is one of the three major flowers in the world; its flower type and color are very rich, with high ornamental value and economic value. Heat stress severely limits the cultivation and geographical distribution of H. fulva. Genetic resources and their underlying molecular mechanisms constitute the cornerstone of contemporary breeding technologies. However, research on the response of H. fulva to heat stress remains relatively scant. In this study, we used the heat-resistant ‘Dan Yang’ variety and heat-sensitive ‘Nuo Mi Lu’ variety with phenotypic expression as experimental materials to determine the changes in substance and gene expression levels, and used bioinformatics technology to study the molecular mechanisms and gene resource mining of H. fulva in response to heat stress. We identified several thousand differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in different comparison groups. At the same time, 1850 shared DEGs were identified in two H. fulva genotypes responding to heat stress. The dynamic cutting algorithm was used to cluster the genes, and 23 gene co-expression modules were obtained. The MEorangered, MElightpink, and MEmagenta modules were significantly correlated with physiological and biochemical traits. We identified ten key genes closely related to the response of H. fulva to heat stress, including plant–pathogen interactions, plant hormone signal transduction, oxidative transduction phosphorylation, and the plant hormone signal transduction pathway. This study not only analyzes the molecular mechanism of H. fulva response to heat stress, but also provides genetic resources for breeding H. fulva heat tolerance.
Impact of Dripper Type and Irrigation Water Salinity on Soil Bulk Density, Growth, and Yield of Maize Crop
Authors: Nayyef Hussein R. , Naser Mohammed A. , AL-Laghawi Hasanen S. , Alhasany Ali R. , Noaema Ali H. , Sawicka Barbara
Published: February 2025

This study hypothesized that alternating fresh and saline irrigation with different dripper types would optimize water use while minimizing negative effects on soil bulk density (ρb) and maize growth. The field experiment was carried out to investigate the impact of the types of the dripper and the salinity of irrigation water rotation on the ρb, maize (Zea mays L.) growth, and yield using two kinds of drippers (turbo and spiral) and two levels of irrigation water with different salinity ratios (low, symbolized by L) and (high, symbolized by H). Irrigation water was added into three rotations (L, H), (H, L, H), and (L, H, L). Soil ρb increased by 22.63% under saline irrigation, while yield was 3.07% higher with turbo drippers compared to spiral drippers. The results displayed an increase in plant height, leaf area, and yield by using the (L, H, L) as compared to (L, H) and (H, L, H), respectively. These results suggest that alternating fresh and saline water could reduce freshwater usage by 50% while maintaining acceptable crop yields, making it a cost-effective solution for water-scarce regions.
Proposal of Nutritional Standards for the Assessment of the Nutritional Status of Grapevines in Subtropical and Temperate Regions
Authors: Rozane Danilo Eduardo , Toselli Moreno , Brunetto Gustavo , Baldi Elena , Natale William , Paula Betania Vahl de , Lima Juliana Domingues , Medeiros Fabiana Campos , Ayres Gustavo , Gobi Samuel Francisco
Published: February 2025

The necessity for nutritional standards to evaluate the nutritional status of grapevines is a critical concern for viticulturists worldwide. This study addressed the lack of multinutrient standards that consider specific genetic and environmental factors by proposing regional standards based on data collected under different growing conditions. Using the compositional nutrient diagnosis (CND) method and multivariate analyses, leaf samples from 585 commercial vineyards in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, and the states of São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, were evaluated. The results confirmed significant variations in nutritional standards among regions and cultivars, emphasizing the need for regional adjustments in fertilization recommendations. This work proposes critical levels, sufficiency ranges, and nutritional standards that can improve grapevine nutritional assessments, promoting greater precision in fertilization management. The findings reinforce the importance of regional standards, avoiding the use of unsuitable universal recommendations.