bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increase in the Bioactive Potential of Olive Pomace Oil after Ultrasound-Assisted Maceration
Authors: Guerra Daniela Rigo , Pletsch Lidia Betina Hendges , Santos Suelen Priscila , Robalo Silvino Sasso , Ribeiro Stéphanie Reis , Emanuelli Tatiana , Bertuol Daniel Assumpção , Cichoski Alexandre José , Wagner Roger , Barcia Milene Teixeira , Ballus Cristiano Augusto
Published: May 2023

Olive pomace oil is obtained when a mixture of olive pomace and residual water is subjected to a second centrifugation. This oil has small amounts of phenolic and volatile compounds compared with extra-virgin olive oil. This study aimed to promote the aromatization of olive pomace oil with rosemary and basil using ultrasound-assisted maceration (UAM) to increase its bioactive potential. For each spice, the ultrasound operating conditions (amplitude, temperature, and extraction time) were optimized through central composite designs. Free fatty acids, peroxide value, volatile compounds, specific extinction coefficients, fatty acids, total phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity, polar compounds, and oxidative stability were determined. After obtaining the optimal maceration conditions assisted by ultrasound, pomace oils flavored with rosemary and basil were compared to pure olive pomace oil. Quality parameters and fatty acids showed no significant difference after UAM. Rosemary aromatization by UAM resulted in a 19.2-fold increase in total phenolic compounds and a 6-fold increase in antioxidant capacity, in addition to providing the most significant increase in oxidative stability. Given this, aromatization by ultrasound-assisted maceration is an efficient method to increase, in a short time, the bioactive potential of olive pomace oil.
Development of Extraction Method for Determination of Saponins in Soybean-Based Yoghurt Alternatives: Effect of Sample pH
Authors: Bljahhina Anastassia , Kuhtinskaja Maria , Kriščiunaite Tiina
Published: May 2023

The number of plant-based dairy alternative products on the market is growing rapidly. In the case of soybean-based yoghurt alternatives, it is important to trace the content of saponins, the phytomicronutrients with a disputable health effect, which are likely to be responsible for the bitter off-taste of the products. We present a new sample extraction method followed by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection (HILIC-MS) for identifying and quantifying soyasaponins in soybean-based yoghurt alternatives. Soyasaponin Bb, soyasaponin Ba, soyasaponin Aa, and soyasaponin Ab were quantified using commercially available standard compounds and with asperosaponin VI as the internal standard. As the recoveries of soyasaponins were unacceptable in yoghurt alternatives at their natural acidic pH, the adjustment of pH was performed as one of the first steps in the sample extraction procedure to achieve the optimum solubility of soyasaponins. The validation of the method included the assessment of linearity, precision, limit of detection and limit of quantification (LOQ), recovery, and matrix effect. The average concentrations of soyasaponin Bb, soyasaponin Ba, soyasaponin Ab, and soyasaponin Aa in several measured soybean-based yoghurt alternatives utilising the developed method were 12.6 ± 1.2, 3.2 ± 0.7, 6.0 ± 2.4 mg/100 g, and below the LOQ, respectively. This method provides an efficient and relatively simple procedure for extracting soyasaponins from yoghurt alternatives followed by rapid quantification using HILIC-MS and could find a rightful application in the development of healthier and better-tasting dairy alternatives.
Effect of Thermosonication on Amino Acids, Phenolic Compounds, Sensory Properties and Microbial Quality in Freshly Squeezed Verjuice
Authors: Çöl Başak Gökçe , Akhan Meryem , Sancar Burcu Çakmak , Türkol Melikenur , Yıkmış Seydi , Hecer Canan
Published: May 2023

Thermosonication is a process that can be used as an alternative to thermal pasteurization by combining mild temperature and ultrasound treatments. This study evaluated the effects of verjuice on the thermosonication process and its bioactive values modeled with the RSM (response surface method). The bioactive components of verjuice were found to increase with high predictive values. Additionally, the presence and amounts of 20 free amino acids in C-VJ (untreated verjuice), P-VJ (thermally pasteurized verjuice) and TS-VJ (thermosonicated verjuice) samples were investigated. Significant (p < 0.05) differences were detected among C-VJ, P-VJ and TS-VJ samples in all free amino acid values except methionine. Although 17 free amino acids were detected at various concentrations, glycine, taurine and cystine were not found in any samples. Thirteen phenolic filters in C-VJ, P-VJ and TS-VJ samples were also examined in this study. Eight phenolic donors with various abilities were detected in the C-VJ sample, along with nine phenolic acceptors in the P-VJ sample and eleven phenolic contents in the TS-VJ sample. The content of phenolic products in the TS-VJ sample increased by 37.5% compared to the C-VJ techniques and by 22.22% compared to the P-VJ techniques. Thermosonication did not significantly affect color and physiochemical values. Panelists generally appreciated the effects of thermosonication. It is concluded that the thermosonication process is a good alternative to thermal pasteurization. The results of this study provide essential data for future in vivo studies and show that the bioactive values of verjuice can be increased by using the thermosonication process.
Study on Production Technology and Volatile Flavor Analysis of Fragrance Zanthoxylum Seasoning Oil
Authors: Li Hang , Sun Jingxuan , He Xinyi , Zhang Chenyun , Liao Zhenyu , Li Dong , Wang Hongbin
Published: May 2023

Dried green pepper and first-grade extracted soybean oil were selected as raw materials to study the effect of the Maillard reaction and cold-pressed compound on the quality of Zanthoxylum seasoning oil and its aroma-enhancing effect. The results showed that the optimal technology was as follows: the ratio of material to liquid was 1:5, the heating temperature was 110 °C, the reaction time was 25 or 30 min, and the addition of reducing sugar was 2%. The optimum ratio of fragrant Zanthoxylum seasoning oil was 1:7 for cold pressing oil and hot dipping oil. Compared with Zanthoxylum seasoning oil, it is based on the Maillard reaction and had a more intense and persistent aroma. The taste of fragrant Zanthoxylum seasoning oil was the best of the three blended oils. The possible types of volatile flavor compounds in the three kinds of Zanthoxylum seasoning oils detected by Heracles II ultra-fast gas phase electronic nose were, respectively, 16, 19, and 15. Among the three kinds of Zanthoxylum seasoning oils, the content of limonene, linalool, Eucalyptol, n-pentane α-Pinene, myrcene, and phellandrene was more abundant, which indicated that olefins and alcohols contributed more to the overall flavor of the three kinds of Zanthoxylum seasoning oils.
The Effect of Fractional Derivatives on Thermo-Mechanical Interaction in Biological Tissues during Hyperthermia Treatment Using Eigenvalues Approach
Authors: Hobiny Aatef , Abbas Ibrahim
Published: May 2023

This article studies the effects of fractional time derivatives on thermo-mechanical interaction in living tissue during hyperthermia treatment by using the eigenvalues approach. A comprehensive understanding of the heat transfer mechanism and the related thermo-mechanical interactions with the patient’s living tissues is crucial for the effective implementation of thermal treatment procedures. The surface of living tissues is traction-free and is exposed to a pulse boundary heat flux that decays exponentially. The Laplace transforms and their associated techniques are applied to the generalized bio-thermo-elastic model, and analytical procedures are then implemented. The eigenvalue approach is utilized to obtain the solution of governing equations. Graphical representations are given for the temperature, the displacement, and the thermal stress results. Afterward, a parametric study was carried out to determine the best method for selecting crucial design parameters that can improve the precision of hyperthermia therapies.
Fractional-Order Model-Free Predictive Control for Voltage Source Inverters
Authors: Albalawi Hani , Bakeer Abualkasim , Zaid Sherif A. , Aggoune El-Hadi , Ayaz Muhammad , Bensenouci Ahmed , Eisa Amir
Published: May 2023

Currently, a two-level voltage source inverter (2L-VSI) is regarded as the cornerstone of modern industrial applications. However, the control of VSIs is a challenging task due to their nonlinear and time-varying nature. This paper proposes employing the fractional-order controller (FOC) to improve the performance of model-free predictive control (MFPC) of the 2L-VSI voltage control in uninterruptible power supply (UPS) applications. In the conventional MFPC based on the ultra-local model (ULM), the unknown variable that includes all the system disturbances is estimated using algebraic identification, which is insufficient to improve the prediction accuracy in the predictive control. The proposed FO-MFPC uses fractional-order proportional-integral control (FOPI) to estimate the unknown function associated with the MFPC. To get the best performance from the FOPI, its parameters are optimally designed using the grey wolf optimization (GWO) approach. The number of iterations of the GWO is 100, while the grey wolf’s number is 20. The proposed GWO algorithm achieves a small fitness function value of approximately 0.156. In addition, the GWO algorithm nearly finds the optimal parameters after 80 iterations for the defined objective function. The performance of the proposed FO-MFPC controller is compared to that of conventional MFPC for the three loading cases and conditions. Using MATLAB simulations, the simulation results indicated the superiority of the proposed FO-MFPC controller over the conventional MFPC in steady state and transient responses. Moreover, the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the output voltage at different sampling times proves the excellent quality of the output voltage with the proposed FO-MFPC controller over the conventional MFPC controller. The results confirm the robustness of the two control systems against parameter mismatches. Additionally, using the TMS320F28379D kit, the experimental verification of the proposed FO-MFPC control strategy is implemented for 2L-VSI on the basis of the Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulator, demonstrating the applicability and effective performance of our proposed control strategy under realistic circumstances.
Impact of Lévy Noise with Infinite Activity on the Dynamics of Measles Epidemics
Authors: Song Yuqin , Liu Peijiang
Published: May 2023

This research article investigates the application of Lévy noise to understand the dynamic aspects of measles epidemic modeling and seeks to explain the impact of vaccines on the spread of the disease. After model formulation, the study utilises uniqueness and existence techniques to derive a positive solution to the underlying stochastic model. The Lyapunov function is used to investigate the stability results associated with the proposed stochastic model. The model’s dynamic characteristics are analyzed in the vicinity of the infection-free and endemic states of the associated ODEs model. The stochastic threshold Rs that ensures disease’s extinction whenever Rs<1 is calculated. We utilized data from Pakistan in 2019 to estimate the parameters of the model and conducted simulations to forecast the future behavior of the disease. The results were compared to actual data using standard curve fitting tools.
A New Load Frequency Control Technique for Hybrid Maritime Microgrids: Sophisticated Structure of Fractional-Order PIDA Controller
Authors: Almasoudi Fahad M. , Magdy Gaber , Bakeer Abualkasim , Alatawi Khaled Saleem S. , Rihan Mahmoud
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes an efficient load frequency control (LFC) technique based on a fractional-order proportional–integral–derivative–accelerator with a low-pass filter compensator (FOPIDA-LPF) controller, which can also be accurately referred to as the PIλDND2N2 controller. A trustworthy metaheuristic optimization algorithm, known as the gray wolf optimizer (GWO), is used to fine-tune the suggested PIλDND2N2 controller parameters. Moreover, the proposed PIλDND2N2 controller is designed for the LFC of a self-contained hybrid maritime microgrid system (HMμGS) containing solid oxide fuel cell energy units, a marine biodiesel generator, renewable energy sources (RESs), non-sensitive loads, and sensitive loads. The proposed controller enables the power system to deal with random variations in load and intermittent renewable energy sources. Comparisons with various controllers used in the literature demonstrate the excellence of the proposed PIλDND2N2 controller. Additionally, the proficiency of GWO optimization is checked against other powerful optimization techniques that have been extensively researched: particle swarm optimization and ant lion optimization. Finally, the simulation results performed by the MATLAB software prove the effectiveness and reliability of the suggested PIλDND2N2 controller built on the GWO under several contingencies of different load perturbations and random generation of RESs. The proposed controller can maintain stability within the system, while also greatly decreasing overshooting and minimizing the system’s settling time and rise time.
Controlling the Self-Assembly and Material Properties of β-Sheet Peptide Hydrogels by Modulating Intermolecular Interactions
Authors: Warren James P. , Culbert Matthew P. , Miles Danielle E. , Maude Steven , Wilcox Ruth K. , Beales Paul A.
Published: May 2023

Self-assembling peptides are a promising biomaterial with potential applications in medical devices and drug delivery. In the right combination of conditions, self-assembling peptides can form self-supporting hydrogels. Here, we describe how balancing attractive and repulsive intermolecular forces is critical for successful hydrogel formation. Electrostatic repulsion is tuned by altering the peptide’s net charge, and intermolecular attractions are controlled through the degree of hydrogen bonding between specific amino acid residues. We find that an overall net peptide charge of +/−2 is optimal to facilitate the assembly of self-supporting hydrogels. If the net peptide charge is too low then dense aggregates form, while a high molecular charge inhibits the formation of larger structures. At a constant charge, altering the terminal amino acids from glutamine to serine decreases the degree of hydrogen bonding within the assembling network. This tunes the viscoelastic properties of the gel, reducing the elastic modulus by two to three orders of magnitude. Finally, hydrogels could be formed from glutamine-rich, highly charged peptides by mixing the peptides in combinations with a resultant net charge of +/−2. These results illustrate how understanding and controlling self-assembly mechanisms through modulating intermolecular interactions can be exploited to derive a range of structures with tuneable properties.
Macroscopic Pattern Formation of Alginate Gels in a Two-Dimensional System
Authors: Haraguchi Ryota , Oishi Yushi , Narita Takayuki
Published: May 2023

Macroscopic spatial patterns were formed in calcium alginate gels when a drop of a calcium nitrate solution was placed on the center of a sodium alginate solution on a petri dish. These patterns have been classified into two groups. One is multi-concentric rings consisting of alternating cloudy and transparent areas observed around the center of petri dishes. The other is streaks extending to the edge of the petri dish, which are formed to surround the concentric bands between the concentric bands and the petri dish edge. We have attempted to understand the origins of the pattern formations using the properties of phase separation and gelation. The distance between two adjacent concentric rings was roughly proportional to the distance from where the calcium nitrate solution was dropped. The proportional factor p increased exponentially for the inverse of the absolute temperature of the preparation. The p also depended on the concentration of alginate. The pattern characteristics in the concentric pattern agreed with those in the Liesegang pattern. The paths of radial streaks were disturbed at high temperatures. The length of these streaks shortened with increasing alginate concentration. The characteristics of the streaks were similar to those of crack patterns resulting from inhomogeneous shrinkage during drying.
Para-Methoxybenzylidene Acetal-Protected D-Glucosamine Derivatives as pH-Responsive Gelators and Their Applications for Drug Delivery
Authors: Bietsch Jonathan , Baker Logan , Duffney Anna , Mao Alice , Foutz Mary , Ackermann Cheandri , Wang Guijun
Published: May 2023

Carbohydrate-based low molecular weight gelators (LMWGs) are compounds with the capability to self-assemble into complex molecular networks within a solvent, leading to solvent immobilization. This process of gel formation depends on noncovalent interactions, including Van der Waals, hydrogen bonding, and π–π stacking. Due to their potential applications in environmental remediation, drug delivery, and tissue engineering, these molecules have emerged as an important area of research. In particular, various 4,6-O-benzylidene acetal-protected D-glucosamine derivatives have shown promising gelation abilities. In this study, a series of C-2-carbamate derivatives containing a para-methoxy benzylidene acetal functional group were synthesized and characterized. These compounds exhibited good gelation properties in several organic solvents and aqueous mixtures. Upon removal of the acetal functional group under acidic conditions, a number of deprotected free sugar derivatives were also synthesized. Analysis of these free sugar derivatives revealed two compounds were hydrogelators while their precursors did not form hydrogels. For those protected carbamates that are hydrogelators, removal of the 4,6-protection will result in a more water-soluble compound that produces a transition from gel to solution. Given the ability of these compounds to form gels from solution or solution from gels in situ in response to acidic environments, these compounds may have practical applications as stimuli-responsive gelators in an aqueous medium. In turn, one hydrogelator was studied for the encapsulation and release of naproxen and chloroquine. The hydrogel exhibited sustained drug release over a period of several days, with the release of chloroquine being faster at lower pH due to the acid lability of the gelator molecule. The synthesis, characterization, gelation properties, and studies on drug diffusion are discussed.
Editorial on the Special Issue: “Advances in Xerogels: From Design to Applications”
Authors: Fiorati Andrea , Caridi Francesco , Paladini Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

Xerogels are solid materials derived from gels which consist of interconnected particles or polymers dispersed in a liquid [...]
Intraspecific Chloroplast Genome Variation and Domestication Origins of Major Cultivars of Styphnolobium japonicum
Authors: Mu Zhiqiang , Zhang Yu , Zhang Bin , Cheng Yueqin , Shang Fude , Wang Hongwei
Published: May 2023

Styphnolobium japonicum is a significant resource of ornamental and medicinal plants. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing to assemble nine chloroplast genomes of S. japonicum. We compared and reconstructed the phylogenetic relationships of these genomes, along with three publicly available chloroplast genomes. Our results showed that the length of the 12 S. japonicum chloroplast genomes ranged from 158,613 bp to 158,837 bp, all containing 129 unique functional genes. The genetic diversity within S. japonicum chloroplast genomes was relatively low, with π = 0.00029, Theta-W = 0.00028, and an indel frequency of 0.62 indels/1 kb. Among the four regions, the SSC region exhibited the highest genetic diversity and indel frequency, while the IR region had the lowest. Non-coding regions displayed greater genetic variation compared to coding regions, with a few highly variable regions identified. The phylogenetic tree constructed revealed that the major cultivars of S. japonicum originated from two genetic ‘sources. S. japonicum ‘JinhuaiJ2’ had an independent origin and showed close relatedness to S. japonicum var. violacea, S. japonicum var. japonicum, and S. japonicum f. oligophylla. On the other hand, other major cultivars shared a common genetic origin and were closely related to S. japonicum f. pendula. This study highlights the variability of chloroplast genomes within S. japonicum and provides insights into the genetic origins of major cultivars and their relationships with different varieties and forma.
The Unique Homothallic Mating-Type Loci of the Fungal Tree Pathogens Chrysoporthe syzygiicola and Chrysoporthe zambiensis from Africa
Authors: van der Merwe Nicolaas A. , Phakalatsane Tshiamo , Wilken P. Markus
Published: May 2023

Chrysoporthe syzygiicola and C. zambiensis are ascomycete tree pathogens first described from Zambia, causing stem canker on Syzygium guineense and Eucalyptus grandis, respectively. The taxonomic descriptions of these two species were based on their anamorphic states, as no sexual states are known. The main purpose of this work was to use whole genome sequences to identify and define the mating-type (MAT1) loci of these two species. The unique MAT1 loci for C. zambiensis and C. syzygiicola consist of the MAT1-1-1, MAT1-1-2, and MAT1-2-1 genes, but the MAT1-1-3 gene is absent. Genes canonically associated with opposite mating types were present at the single mating-type locus, suggesting that C. zambiensis and C. syzygiicola have homothallic mating systems.
Analysis of the Origin of Emiratis as Inferred from a Family Study Based on HLA-A, -C, -B, -DRB1, and -DQB1 Genes
Authors: Al Yafei Zain , Hajjej Abdelhafidh , Alvares Marion , Al Mahri Ayeda , Nasr Amre , Mirghani Rajaa , Al Obaidli Ali , Al Seiari Mohamed , Mack Steven J. , Askar Medhat , Edinur Hisham A. , Almawi Wassim Y. , ElGhazali Gehad
Published: May 2023

In this study, we investigated HLA class I and class II allele and haplotype frequencies in Emiratis and compared them to those of Asian, Mediterranean, and Sub-Saharan African populations. Methods: Two-hundred unrelated Emirati parents of patients selected for bone marrow transplantation were genotyped for HLA class I (A, B, C) and class II (DRB1, DQB1) genes using reverse sequence specific oligonucleotide bead-based multiplexing. HLA haplotypes were assigned with certainty by segregation (pedigree) analysis, and haplotype frequencies were obtained by direct counting. HLA class I and class II frequencies in Emiratis were compared to data from other populations using standard genetic distances (SGD), Neighbor-Joining (NJ) phylogenetic dendrograms, and correspondence analysis. Results: The studied HLA loci were in Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium. We identified 17 HLA-A, 28 HLA-B, 14 HLA-C, 13 HLA-DRB1, and 5 HLA-DQB1 alleles, of which HLA-A*02 (22.2%), -B*51 (19.5%), -C*07 (20.0%), -DRB1*03 (22.2%), and -DQB1*02 (32.8%) were the most frequent allele lineages. DRB1*03~DQB1*02 (21.2%), DRB1*16~DQB1*05 (17.3%), B*35~C*04 (11.7%), B*08~DRB1*03 (9.7%), A*02~B*51 (7.5%), and A*26~C*07~B*08~DRB1*03~DQB1*02 (4.2%) were the most frequent two- and five-locus HLA haplotypes. Correspondence analysis and dendrograms showed that Emiratis were clustered with the Arabian Peninsula populations (Saudis, Omanis and Kuwaitis), West Mediterranean populations (North Africans, Iberians) and Pakistanis, but were distant from East Mediterranean (Turks, Albanians, Greek), Levantine (Syrians, Palestinians, Lebanese), Iranian, Iraqi Kurdish, and Sub-Saharan populations. Conclusions: Emiratis were closely related to Arabian Peninsula populations, West Mediterranean populations and Pakistanis. However, the contribution of East Mediterranean, Levantine Arab, Iranian, and Sub-Saharan populations to the Emiratis’ gene pool appears to be minor.
Progress in Research on Key Factors Regulating Lactation Initiation in the Mammary Glands of Dairy Cows
Authors: Guo Haoyue , Li Jianyuan , Wang Yuhao , Cao Xiang , Lv Xiaoyang , Yang Zhangping , Chen Zhi
Published: May 2023

Lactation initiation refers to a functional change in the mammary organ from a non-lactating state to a lactating state, and a series of cytological changes in the mammary epithelium from a non-secreting state to a secreting state. Like the development of the mammary gland, it is regulated by many factors (including hormones, cytokines, signaling molecules, and proteases). In most non-pregnant animals, a certain degree of lactation also occurs after exposure to specific stimuli, promoting the development of their mammary glands. These specific stimuli can be divided into two categories: before and after parturition. The former inhibits lactation and decreases activity, and the latter promotes lactation and increases activity. Here we present a review of recent progress in research on the key factors of lactation initiation to provide a powerful rationale for the study of the lactation initiation process and mammary gland development.
Association of FAAH rs324420 (C385A) Polymorphism with High-Level Performance in Volleyball Players
Authors: Silva Hugo-Henrique , Tavares Valéria , Silva Maria-Raquel G. , Neto Beatriz Vieira , Cerqueira Fátima , Medeiros Rui
Published: May 2023

Genetic variants are recognized to affect athletic performance, partially by modulating competition-facilitating behavior. In this study, the role of three genetic variants previously linked to athlete status was investigated among elite volleyball players. A total of 228 players (26.7 ± 8.1 years old) participating in the Portuguese championship and with multiple medalists in national and international competitions were evaluated in terms of anthropometrics, training regime, sports experience, and a history of sports lesions. SNP genotyping was conducted by means of TaqMan® Allelic Discrimination Methodology. Volleyball players showed significantly different anthropometric indicators and training habits according to sex (p < 0.05). The A allele of the genetic variant Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) rs324420 (C385A) was shown to be significantly associated with superior athletic achievements under a dominant genetic model (AA/AC vs. CC, odds ratio (OR) = 1.70; 95% Cl, 0.93–3.13; p = 0.026; p < 0.001 after Bootstrap), which was corroborated by a multivariable analysis (AA/AC vs. CC adjusted OR = 2.00; 95% Cl, 1.04–3.82; p = 0.037). Age and hand length were also found to be independently associated with high-level performance (p < 0.05). Our results confirm the role of FAAH in athletic performance. More investigation into this polymorphism’s potential impact on stress coping, pain, and inflammation regulation in sport, particularly in the scope of lesions prevention and treatment, is required.
Fecal Microbial Structure and Metabolic Profile in Post-Weaning Diarrheic Piglets
Authors: Zheng Xianrui , Nie Ke , Xu Yiliang , Zhang Huibin , Xie Fan , Xu Liming , Zhang Zhiyong , Ding Yueyun , Yin Zongjun , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Piglet diarrhea is one of the most serious diseases in pigs and has brought great economic losses to the pig industry. Alteration of the gut microbiota is an important factor in the etiology of piglet diarrhea. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the differences in the gut microbial structures and fecal metabolic profile between post-weaning diarrhea and healthy Chinese Wannan Black pigs. (2) Methods: An integrated approach of 16S rRNA gene sequencing combined with LC/MS-based metabolomics was employed in this study. (3) Results: We found an increase in the relative abundance of the bacterial genus Campylobacter and a decrease in phylum Bacteroidetes and the species Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. macedonicus. (S. macedonicus) in piglet diarrhea. Meanwhile, obvious changes in the fecal metabolic profile of diarrheic piglets were also detected, particularly higher levels of polyamines (spermine and spermidine). Moreover, there were substantial associations between the disturbed gut microbiota and the altered fecal metabolites, especially a strong positive relationship between spermidine and Campylobacter. (4) Conclusions: These observations may provide novel insights into potential etiologies related to post-weaning diarrhea and further enhance our understanding of the role of gut microbiota in host homeostasis and in modulating gut microbial structure.
The Role of Genetic and Epigenetic Regulation in Intestinal Fibrosis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Descending Process or a Programmed Consequence?
Authors: Jarmakiewicz-Czaja Sara , Sokal Aneta , Ferenc Katarzyna , Motyka Elżbieta , Helma Kacper , Filip Rafał
Published: May 2023

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are a group of chronic diseases characterized by recurring periods of exacerbation and remission. Fibrosis of the intestine is one of the most common complications of IBD. Based on current analyses, it is evident that genetic factors and mechanisms, as well as epigenetic factors, play a role in the induction and progression of intestinal fibrosis in IBD. Key genetic factors and mechanisms that appear to be significant include NOD2, TGF-β, TLRs, Il23R, and ATG16L1. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation, histone modification, and ribonucleic acid (RNA) interference are the primary epigenetic mechanisms. Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, which seem to be important in the pathophysiology and progression of IBD, may potentially be used in targeted therapy in the future. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gather and discuss selected mechanisms and genetic factors, as well as epigenetic factors.
Microsatellite Instability and Immune Response: From Microenvironment Features to Therapeutic Actionability—Lessons from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Greco Luana , Rubbino Federica , Dal Buono Arianna , Laghi Luigi
Published: May 2023

Microsatellite instability (MSI) can be found in 15–20% of all colorectal cancers (CRC) and is the key feature of a defective DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system. Currently, MSI has been established as a unique and pivotal biomarker in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of CRC. MSI tumors display a strong lymphocytic activation and a shift toward a tumoral microenvironment restraining metastatic potential and ensuing in a high responsiveness to immunotherapy of MSI CRC. Indeed, neoplastic cells with an MMR defect overexpress several immune checkpoint proteins, such as programmed death-1 (PD-1) and programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1), that can be pharmacologically targeted, allowing for the revival the cytotoxic immune response toward the tumor. This review aims to illustrate the role of MSI in the tumor biology of colorectal cancer, focusing on the immune interactions with the microenvironment and their therapeutic implications.
First Description of the Nuclear and Mitochondrial Genomes and Associated Host Preference of Trichopoda pennipes, a Parasitoid of Nezara viridula
Authors: Bogale Mesfin , Mishra Shova , Stacey Kendall , Rooney Lillie , Barreto Paula , Bishop Gina , Bossert Katherine , Bremer Kalista , Bustamante Daniel , Chan Lila , Chau Quan , Cordo Julian , Diaz Alyssa , Hacker Jordan , Hadaegh Lily , Hibshman Taryn , Lastra Kimberly , Lee Fion , Mattia Alexandra , Nguyen Bao , Overton Gretchen , Reis Victoria , Rhodes Daniel , Roeder Emily , Rush Muhamed , Salichs Oscar , Seslija Mateo , Stylianou Nicholas , Vemugunta Vivek , Yun Min , Auletta Anthony , Leppla Norman , DiGennaro Peter
Published: May 2023

Trichopoda pennipes is a tachinid parasitoid of several significant heteropteran agricultural pests, including the southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula, and leaf-footed bug, Leptoglossus phyllopus. To be used successfully as a biological control agent, the fly must selectively parasitize the target host species. Differences in the host preference of T. pennipes were assessed by assembling the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes of 38 flies reared from field-collected N. viridula and L. phyllopus. High-quality de novo draft genomes of T. pennipes were assembled using long-read sequencing. The assembly totaled 672 MB distributed among 561 contigs, having an N50 of 11.9 MB and a GC of 31.7%, with the longest contig at 28 MB. The genome was assessed for completeness using BUSCO in the Insecta dataset, resulting in a score of 99.4%, and 97.4% of the genes were single copy-loci. The mitochondrial genomes of the 38 T. pennipes flies were sequenced and compared to identify possible host-determined sibling species. The assembled circular genomes ranged from 15,345 bp to 16,390 bp and encode 22 tRNAs, two rRNAs, and 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs). There were no differences in the architecture of these genomes. Phylogenetic analyses using sequence information from 13 PCGs and the two rRNAs individually or as a combined dataset resolved the parasitoids into two distinct lineages: T. pennipes that parasitized both N. viridula and L. phyllopus, and others that parasitized only L. phyllopus.
Spinal Deformity in Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome: Focus on Musculocontractural Type
Authors: Uehara Masashi , Takahashi Jun , Kosho Tomoki
Published: May 2023

Spinal deformity in Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) is an important symptom that can lead to trunk balance deterioration, respiratory dysfunction, and digestive disorders as the deformity progresses, thereby reducing a patient’s quality of life and activities of daily living. The severity of the deformity varies widely, with treatment depending on the extent and the presence of associated complications. The present review addressed the current state of clinical research and treatment of spinal deformities in EDS with a specific focus on the musculocontractural type. Further studies are needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms of spinal deformity in EDS.
Cenozoic Clastic Deposits in the Thermaikos Basin in Northern Greece and Their Reservoir Potential
Authors: Makrodimitras Georgios , Nikitas Anastasios , Ktenas Dimitrios , Maravelis Angelos G. , Rokana Niki Marina , Pasadakis Nikolaos , Tartaras Efthimios , Stefatos Aristofanis
Published: May 2023

The Epanomi gas field discovery during the 1980s at the eastern fringe of the Thermaikos Basin in Northern Greece proved the existence of an active petroleum system in the area. Seismic and drilling exploration programs in the area provide data to study the Cenozoic clastic sequence in the Thermaikos Basin. This study aims to recognize, through core and well-log data, the wide range of facies associations from different depositional environments, which contribute to the basin fill. Additional wells from the Kassandra and Epanomi onshore areas support the conclusions of this study. A detailed core description, a cuttings evaluation, and a log analysis of selected wells were the main tools for the facies association analysis. Seismic data from the area were used to identify the lateral extension of the depositional environments in the areas between and around the wells. The Eocene–Oligocene part of the stratigraphic succession corresponds to deep-water turbidites in the middle of the basin, passing laterally to a shallow marine and locally to fluvial, alluvial, and deltaic settings. The dominant (in terms of thickness) Miocene interval consists of fluvial and shallow marine sediments, while deltaic deposits are also present. The Quaternary deposits are mostly shallow marine, with local lagoonal sediments. The reservoir properties were integrated at the last stages of the study in order to identify the most interesting facies. The outcome of this study can be useful for hydrocarbon exploration or for potential future CO2 storage.
Measurement Properties’ Evaluation of the Arabic Version of the Patient-Specific Functional Scale in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Alsubiheen Abdulrahman M. , Alzain Nawaf A. , Albishi Alaa M. , Shaheen Afaf A. M. , Aldaihan Mishal M. , Almurdi Muneera M. , Alqahtani Abdulfattah S. , Alderaa Asma A. , Alnahdi Ali H.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Arabic version of the patient-specific functional scale (PSFS-Ar) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) disorder. Materials and Methods: Reliability and validity were examined in patients with multiple sclerosis using a longitudinal cohort study design. One hundred (N = 100) patients with MS were recruited to examine the PSFS-Ar, test–retest reliability (using the interclass correlation coefficient model 2,1 (ICC2,1)), construct validity (using the hypothesis testing method), and floor–ceiling effect. Results: A total of 100 participants completed the PSFS-Ar (34% male, 66% female). The PSFS-Ar showed an excellent test–retest reliability score (ICC2,1 = 0.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.75–0.93). The SEM of the PSFS-Ar was 0.80, while the MDC95 was 1.87, indicating an acceptable measurement error. The construct validity of the PSFS-Ar was 100% correlated with the predefined hypotheses. As hypothesized, the correlation analysis revealed positive correlations between the PSFS-Ar and the RAND-36 domains of physical functioning (0.5), role limitations due to physical health problems (0.37), energy/fatigue (0.35), and emotional well-being (0.19). There was no floor or ceiling effect in this study. Conclusions: The study results showed that the PSFS-Ar is a self-reported outcome measure that is useful for detecting specific functional difficulties in patients with multiple sclerosis. Patients are able to express and report a variety of functional limitations easily and effectively, as well as to measure their response to physical therapy. The PSFS-Ar is, therefore, recommended for use in Arabic-speaking countries for clinical practice and research for patients with multiple sclerosis.
The Usefulness of an Online Simplified Screening Questionnaire (SSQ) in Identifying Work-Related Cancers
Authors: Vazquez Fabiana L. , Silveira Henrique C. S. , Otero Ubirani B. , Hosokawa Thais T. , Fregnani José Humberto T. G. , Longatto-Filho Adhemar , Reis Rui M.
Published: May 2023

To obtain a history of occupational exposure in the workplace, the questionnaire is one of the main sources of information. The aim of this study was to develop an online questionnaire using the REDCap data management platform based on the Work-Related Cancer Surveillance Guidelines, reported by the Brazilian National Cancer Institute. Several issues were taken into consideration for its routine application. It should be simple, easy, capable of being applied in a short time and used in the clinical setting of collecting information on the occupational history of the cancer patient. Consequently, this could enable the compulsory notification of work-related cancer. The questionnaire was developed based on questions about the use of and exposure to carcinogenic factors at work and due to smoking. An entirely electronic version of the cancer patient interview was performed using tablets. The online questionnaire was applied at the Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, to newly diagnosed patients from July 2016 to 2018. A total of 1063 patients were included, and 550 indicated positively when asked “Do you work, or have you worked with this substance and/or in this function?/job?” Of these potentially notified patients, 38 subsequently had compulsorily reported work-related cancer. Another important result of this study was the creation and development of a website. In conclusion, we developed an online tool that could facilitate hospital routines, contributing to generating data for the compulsory notification of work-related cancer and triggering investigations and surveillance actions in Brazil.
Identifying Hate Speech and Attribution of Responsibility: An Analysis of Simulated WhatsApp Conversations during the Pandemic
Authors: Palazón-Fernández José Luis , Mata-Perez Concepción , Gilart Ester , Cotobal Calvo Eva Manuela , Cruz-Barrientos Alberto , Bocchino Anna
Published: May 2023

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, public confrontations between people who had agreed to be vaccinated and those who had not, highlighted the relevance of the deepening dissemination of violent and discriminatory expressions and determined a level of perception of hate discourses. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was carried out, based on an innovative methodology: simulations of WhatsApp conversations. In addition, the following variables were considered among others: level of empathy, personality traits and conflict resolution. Results: The participants were 567 nursing students (413 females, 153 males and 1 person who did not identify with any gender). The results showed that, for the most part, the participants correctly identified hate speech, but were unable to discern the frame of reference. Conclusions: It is necessary to implement intervention strategies to minimize the impact of hate speech, which continues to be used on many levels to harass others, justify violence or undermine rights, generating an environment of prejudice and intolerance that encourages discrimination and violent attacks against certain individuals or collectives.
Association of Maternal Antenatal Education with Quality of Life after Childbirth in the Slovenian Population before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Berčan Tina , Kovačević Nina , Cilenšek Ines , Podbregar Iztok
Published: May 2023

Pregnancy and childbirth have a crucial impact on a woman’s quality of life. In Slovenia, antenatal classes are the main educational tool used to prepare expectant mothers for their new role. The aim of our study was to assess the relationship between the duration of antenatal classes and the mothers’ quality of life after childbirth. A self-administered, previously validated and tested questionnaire regarding the quality of life after childbirth was completed by Slovenian women. Based on an online survey, data were collected for two groups of mothers. The first group (n = 1091) gave birth before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the second group (n = 1163) gave birth during the pandemic. Group differences were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U test. Linear regression and correlation coefficients were calculated for the association between quality of life and the duration of antenatal classes. Our study showed a significant decrease in the duration of antenatal classes and a decrease in quality of life after birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also showed that more antenatal education was associated with a higher quality of life. Despite the influence of multiple factors during the COVID-19 pandemic, we defined the correlation between the duration of antenatal classes and postpartum quality of life in a sample of Slovenian mothers. The duration of the antenatal classes is an important factor influencing the quality of life after childbirth.
Physicians’ Online Writing Language Style and Patient Satisfaction: The Mediator of Depth of Physician–Patient Interactions
Authors: Liu Jingfang , Jiang Huihong , Wang Shiqi
Published: May 2023

Online health counseling (OHC) is increasingly important in modern healthcare. This development has attracted considerable attention from researchers. However, the reality of the lack of physician–patient communication and dissatisfaction with online health services remains prevalent, and more research is needed to raise awareness about important issues related to OHC services, especially in terms of patient satisfaction and depth of interaction (i.e., the product of the number of interactions and the relevance of the content). This study constructs an empirical model to explore the relationship between physicians’ online writing language style (inclusive language and emojis), depth of physician–patient interactions, and patient satisfaction. The study obtained 5064 online health counseling records from 337 pediatricians and analyzed them using text mining and empirical methods. The results showed that physicians’ inclusive language (β = 0.3198, p < 0.05) and emojis (β = 0.6059, p < 0.01) had a positive impact on patient satisfaction. In addition, the depth of the physician–patient interaction partially mediated this effect. This study promotes a better understanding of the mechanisms of physician–patient interactions in online settings and has important implications for how online physicians and platforms can better provide online healthcare services.
Physical Activity Levels, Eating Habits, and Well-Being Measures in Students of Healthcare Degrees in the Second Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Maté-Muñoz José Luis , Hernández-Lougedo Juan , Ruiz-Tovar Jaime , Olivares-Llorente Rafael , García-Fernández Pablo , Zapata Irene
Published: May 2023

Background: When the first cases of COVID-19 (caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus infection) were discovered, exceptional norms to fight the spread of the virus were established by applying movement restrictions (lockdown) in many countries. These unprecedented norms led to sedentary behaviours and less healthy diets which could persist for much longer after lockdown. The aim of this study was to analyse the physical activity, eating habits, self-perceived well-being, and toxic habits, as well as the perceived changes of these habits with respect to the pre-pandemic period, in a population of university students in the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A single-centre, cross-sectional study was conducted in a population of university students of healthcare degrees. A total of 961 students (639 (66.5%) women and 322 (33.5%) men) signed the informed consent and completed the questionnaire. The study was conducted through an anonymous survey, which was voluntarily self-completed by the students on an online platform. The questionnaire was based on the Spanish Health Survey and it was divided into six main parts: demographic and anthropometric characteristics, physical activity, eating habits, well-being measures (sleeping habits, health state, and stress), toxic habits, and perception of the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the variables described. Results and conclusions: The results showed that, during the second year of the pandemic, statistically significant dependence was identified for those students that showed higher levels of physical activity with greater perceived physical activity (p < 0.05), healthier eating habits (p < 0.05), and a better self-perceived health state (p < 0.05), with respect to the 12 months before the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, there was a negative correlation between the sedentary students and greater perceived physical activity (p < 0.05). With regard to toxic habits and physical activity, a significant correlation was only detected between sedentary behaviour and cocaine consumption (p < 0.05). Analysing eating habits, it was observed that the students who smoked, consumed alcohol, and binge drank had low adherence to the Mediterranean diet (p < 0.05). In addition, those students with high stress levels slept less than 7 h (p < 0.05).