bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synthetic polyploidization induces enhanced phytochemical profile and biological activities in Thymus vulgaris L. essential oil
Authors: Gupta Neha , Dutta Adrish , Bhattacharya Soham , Tauchen Jan , Landa Přemysl , Urbanová Klára , Fernández-Cusimamani Eloy , Leuner Olga 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Essential oil from Thymus vulgaris L. has valuable therapeutic potential that is highly desired in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Considering these advantages and the rising market demand, induced polyploids were obtained using oryzalin to enhance essential oil yield. However, their therapeutic values were unexplored. So, this study aims to assess the phytochemical content, and antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of tetraploid and diploid thyme essential oils. Induced tetraploids had 41.11% higher essential oil yield with enhanced thymol and γ-terpinene content than diploid. Tetraploids exhibited higher antibacterial activity against all tested microorganisms. Similarly, in DPPH radical scavenging assay tetraploid essential oil was more potent with half-maximal inhibitory doses (IC50) of 180.03 µg/mL (40.05 µg TE/mg) than diploid with IC50 > 512 µg/mL (12.68µg TE/mg). Tetraploids exhibited more effective inhibition of in vitro catalytic activity of pro-inflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) than diploids at 50 µg/mL concentration. Furthermore, molecular docking revealed higher binding affinity of thymol and γ-terpinene towards tested protein receptors, which explained enhanced bioactivity of tetraploid essential oil. In conclusion, these results suggest that synthetic polyploidization using oryzalin could effectively enhance the quality and quantity of secondary metabolites and can develop more efficient essential oil-based commercial products using this induced genotype.
Effects of type 2 diabetes on mortality and immunity responses in sepsis patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Du Qingxia , Yin Xuelian , Li Jiebin , Zhao Hong , Cao Qiumei , Zhang Jing 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Aim： The study aimed to investigate the association between comorbid Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and sepsis outcomes with new evidence and compare the immunity responsesof sepsis patients with T2DMand non-diabetics.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective data collection from consecutive patients diagnosed with sepsis. Utilizing propensity score matching (PSM), we matched T2DM patients with non-diabetics. We subsequently performed a comparative analysis of immune markers and primary clinical outcomes. Additionally, we examined the correlation between HbA1c levels and immunity parameters.
Results: Following the PSM, sepsis patients with comorbid T2DM exhibited a reduced risk of 28-day (odds ratio (OR): 0.62; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.41-0.94; P=0.031) and 90-day (OR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.45-0.89; P=0.010) in-hospital mortality. Notably, T2DM patients showed elevated levels of lymphocytes and C4, while their IGM and IGG levels were lower than non-diabetics. Furthermore, a positive correlation was found between C4 (r =0.161, p = 0.016) and HbA1c, whereas IGM (r =-0.194, p = 0.001) and IGG (r =-0.221, p = 0.003) exhibited a negative association with HbA1c. These findings suggest that HbA1c partially influences the plasma IGM and IGG levels.
Conclusions: T2DM is associated with a reduced risk of mortality in sepsis. Patients with T2DM exhibit enhanced levels of lymphocytes and C4 but reduced levels of IGG and IGM compared to non-diabetics. Additionally, IGM and IGG levels in sepsis patients with T2DM are partially influenced by HbA1c levels.
Atrostelia — a new genus in Megasporaceae (Pertusariales, lichenized Ascomycota)
Authors: Paukov Alexander G. , Davydov Evgeny A. , Yakovchenko Lidia , Ren Qiang , Sohrabi Mohammad 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Phylogenetic analysis based on nc ITS, nc LSU, and mt SSU ribosomal DNA fragments revealed a new genus in Megasporaceae described here as Atrostelia Paukov, Davydov & Yakovchenko. Phylogenetically, it is close to Aspiciliella but differs in radiate-placodioid dark-brown thalli, large, 23–36 µm spores, and substictic acid as a secondary metabolite. The genus is represented by a single species, Atrostelia magnifica Paukov, Davydov & Yakovchenko, which is endemic to the Mongun Taiga massif, Republic of Tyva, Russia. The phylogenetic reconstruction proved 9 genera in Megasporaceae: Aspicilia, Aspiciliella, Atrostelia, Circinaria, Lobothallia, Megaspora, Oxneriaria, Sagedia and Teuvoa, while Agrestia, Chlorangium and Sphaerothallia were synonymous with Circinaria.
Gut microbiota profile in CDKL5 deficiency disorder patients as a potential marker of clinical severity
Authors: Borghi Elisa , Xynomilakis Ornella , Ottaviano Emerenziana , Ceccarani Camilla , Viganò Ilaria , Tognini Paola , Vignoli Aglaia 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by global developmental delay, early-onset seizures, intellectual disability, visual and motor impairments. Unlike Rett Syndrome (RTT), CDD lacks a clear regression period. CDD patients frequently encounter gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances and exhibit signs of subclinical immune dysregulation. However, the underlying causes of these conditions remain elusive. Emerging studies indicate a potential connection between neurological disorders and gut microbiota, an area completely unexplored in CDD. We conducted a pioneering study, analyzing fecal microbiota composition in CDD patients and their healthy relatives. Notably, differences in intestinal bacterial diversity and composition were identified in CDD patients. We further investigated microbiota changes based on the severity of GI issues, seizure frequency, sleep disorders, food intake type, impairment in neuro-behavioral features (assessed through the RTT Behaviour Questionnaire - RSBQ), and ambulation capacity. Our findings hint at a potential connection between CDD, microbiota, and symptom severity. This study marks the first exploration of the gut-microbiota-brain axis in CDD patients. It adds to the growing body of research emphasizing the role of the gut microbiota in neurodevelopmental disorders and opens doors to potential interventions that target intestinal microbes with the aim of improving the lives of CDD patients.
Low-hazardous-multi-functional textile through one-step nano-assisted processing
Authors: Shahin Seyed Mohammad Taher , Montazer Majid , Rad Mahnaz Mahmoudi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Textile processing with low hazardous chemicals in one step through a nano-assisted technique for multi-functional purposes is an important task. Here, the toxic carrier was replaced with zinc acetate in dyeing to modify the polyester fabric through the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). Whereas polyester after conventional dyeing was followed by other required finishing to achieve functional properties. Disperse blue 19 and zinc acetate were used on different pre-treated fabrics at 130°C for 1 h in diverse alkaline media. The dyeing effluent showed almost no remaining dye providing a clean route for the simultaneous nano-assisted processing. This eco-friendly, time- and energy-saving technique exhibited an even distribution of ZnO-NPs on the fabric with reasonable dye adsorption. NaOH, as an alkaline, caused the smallest ZnO-NPs with the highest evenness. However, applying air plasma as a clean activation route on the fabric alongside alkali processing produced a higher color strength with the lowest cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of polyester fabrics improved as noticeable achievements. Besides, excellent fastness obtained on all dyed and ZnO-NPs synthesized samples indicated the successful attachment of dye and nanoparticles on the fabric. In addition, the efficient product showed antibacterial features against S. aureus. Lastly, better stability in alkali media specified for the dyed fabric included synthesized ZnO-NPs which led to an industrially advanced multi-functional product.
HPV16-miRNAs Exert Oncogenic Effects through Enhancers in Human Cervical Cancer
Authors: Wang Yunuan , Wang Xueying , Liu Yiting , He Yuxin , Duan Xiaoling , Li Qinmei , Huang Yanchun , Xu Guoxiong , Lu Qi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Cervical cancer is a human papillomavirus (HPV)-related disease. HPV type 16 (HPV16), which is the predominant cause of cervical cancer, can encode miRNAs (HPV16-miRNAs). However, the role of HPV16-miRNAs in the pathogenesis of cervical cancer remains unclear.
Methods
Human cervical cancer cell lines SIHA (HPV16-positive) and C33A (HPV-negative), and cervical cancer tissues were collected to investigate the expression level of two HPV16-miRNAs (HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6). The overexpression and knockdown of HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6 were performed using the lentiviral vector system and miRNA inhibitors, respectively. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis and H3K27ac chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing (CHIP-seq) experiments were utilized to explore the roles of HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6 facilitated by enhancers. CCK8, EdU, transwell, and wound healing assays were performed to verify the effects of HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6 on cell proliferation and migration.
Results
HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6 were highly expressed in both SIHA cells and tissue samples from HPV16-positive cervical cancer patients. RNA-seq analysis showed that HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6 induced the upregulation of numerous tumor progression-associated genes. H3K27ac CHIP-seq experiments further revealed that HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6 modulated the expression of critical genes by regulating their enhancer activity. The functional study demonstrated that HPV16-miR-H1 and HPV16-miR-H6 increased the migratory capacity of SIHA cells.
Conclusions
Our data shed light on the role of HPV16-encoded miRNAs in cervical cancer, particularly emphasizing their involvement in the miRNA-enhancer-target gene system. This novel regulatory mechanism of HPV16-miRNAs provides new insights and approaches for the development of therapeutic strategies by targeting HPV16-positive cervical cancer.
Effect of Lactation Period and Parity Order on Aflatoxin M1 in Milk from Smallholder Farms in Enrekang, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Sadam Suliman Muhamed Yousof , Malaka Ratmawati , Baco Sudirman , Mustabi Jamila , Waqiah Syarifah Nurul 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Aflatoxins (AFs) are naturally toxic compounds produced by a specific type of fungi, which subsequently contaminate foods and animal feeds, potentially carcinogenic to humans. This study aimed to assess the effect of lactation period and parity order on Aflatoxin AFM1 and the association between them through smallholder dairy farms in addition to aflatoxin M1 in local cheese “DANGKE” and Aflatoxin B1 in animal feed samples from Enrekang, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. A total of 39 raw cow milk samples and 12 and 16 roughage and concentrated feed samples were randomly obtained from smallholder dairy farms in Enrekang and they were examined in terms of AFM1 and AFB1 using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. The prevalence of Aflatoxin B1 in roughage animal feed was 8.33%, with a concentration range of 7.32µ/kg above the limit of detection. The concentrated feed has a different amount of Aflatoxin B1 according to the type of feed used in the farm ranging from 6.04 to 58.74µ/kg with a mean of 27.8µ/kg and representing 37.5% for all concentrated feed samples. The prevalence of Aflatoxin M1 in milk revealed that 69.2% of samples were positive ranging from 3.08±4.35 to 7.95±0.24µ/kg with a mean 5.05±3.50µ/kg above a limit of detection. All samples from cheese showed negative results for AFM1. However, 3(50%) of positive concentrated feed samples exceeded the European Union (EU) regulation of 20µ/kg for dairy animal feed, the roughage feed samples and all of the concentrated feed samples were under Indonesian National Standard (SNI) of 200µ/kg, these three samples namely commercial concentrate and rice bran they include about 57.18, 30.98 and 58.74µ/kg, respectively. Therefore, all raw milk-positive samples were above the limits of the Indonesian national standard of 0.5µ/kg, and above EU and USA limits of 0.05 and 0.50 µg/kg, respectively for raw cow milk. The results showed that no relation between the amount of aflatoxin M1 and lactation period and parity order (P˃0.05). In contrast, the interaction of lactation period and parity order significantly (P<0.05) affected aflatoxin M1 in raw cow milk. Further research is needed to explore the association between the aflatoxin lactation period and parity order. The study revealed a high prevalence of aflatoxin contamination in animal feeds and raw cow milk, suggesting a potential health risk to consumers. Therefore, it is vital to increase awareness and knowledge on Aflatoxin, proper handling, storage, and monitoring of feeds among the stakeholders in the dairy value chain.
Advancements in Polyol Synthesis: Expanding Chemical Horizons and Néel Temperature Tuning of CoO Nanoparticles
Authors: Baričić Miran , Nuñez Jorge M. , Aguirre Myriam H. , Hrabovsky David , Seydou Mahamadou , Meneghini Carlo , Peddis Davide , Ammar Souad 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The polyol synthesis of CoO nanoparticles (NPs) is typically conducted in diethylene glycol (DEG) by dissolving and heating tetrahydrate cobalt acetate and water. This process yields aggregates of approximately 100 nm made of partially aligned primary crystals. However, the synthesis requires careful temperature regulation to allow the nucleation of CoO and at the same time avoid its reduction due to DEG’s activity, impeding any freedom in tuning the synthesis conditions to obtain particles with different morpho-structural properties, which have a direct influence on chemical and physical properties. In this context, the growth of CoO NPs in polyol was studied focusing on the effect of the polyol chain length, the water/cations ratio, and the synthesis temperature, finding that longer polyol chains allow much higher temperatures to be reached. By this way, the aggregate size (20–150 nm), shape (octahedral spherical) and the crystalline length (8–35 nm) were successfully tuned. Our primary focus revolved around investigating the magnetic properties inherent in the synthesized products. Notably, a compelling correlation was observed between the crystallite size of the nanoparticles and their Néel temperature (TN) of CoO—an observation of substantial applicative significance across the spectrum of magnetic applications for this material. In the course of our investigation, two pivotal findings emerged. First, we the identified small quantities of a layered hydroxide ferromagnetic intermediate acting as an interference in our measurements, exhibiting magnetic properties congruent with features observed in other publications on CoO synthesized in systems compatible with the intermediate formation; second, we observed for the first time a branching of the curve in the TN vs crystal size, providing compelling evidence for a novel degree of freedom instrumental in fine-tuning the magnetic properties of these nanoparticles. These two findings shed light on the understanding of CoO and antiferromagnetic materials fundamental properties. Furthermore, good synthetic conditions were found to avoid the formation of ferromagnetic layered hydroxide salt (LHS) impurities, resolving several ambiguities already present in literature about CoO low-temperature magnetic behavior. The Néel temperature (TN) was also recognized in the zero-field cooled (ZFC) thermal variation of the magnetization of the resulting pure CoO particles, and a regular relation with their crystallite size was found, allowing us to regulate TN over ~ 80 K. Samples with spheroidal morphologies were consistently observed to have lower TN respect to the octahedral ones, providing a possible new degree of freedom with which the particles’ magnetic properties can be tuned.
Graphene oxide in an active fault
Authors: Shimada Tomoya , Nakamura Norihiro , Muto Jun , Nagahama Hiroyuki 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
We report the first-ever discovery of graphene oxide in a creeping active fault (the Mozumi–Sukenobe Fault in the Atotsugawa fault system, Japan) using detailed Raman spectroscopic analysis. The presence of graphene oxide, which is characterised by a friction coefficient that is an order of magnitude lower than graphite, may explain the creeping nature of the fault.
Immunity to SARS-CoV-2 after vaccination and previous infection: COVID - 19 immunity study, Namibia
Authors: Hedimbi Hendrick , Nepolo Emmanuel , Worwui Archibald , Nendongo Ashishe , Haidula Liopa , Nakambale Hilma N. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID - 19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus has had a devastating global impact, leading to millions of deaths. The rollout of COVID - 19 vaccines has been critical in controlling the pandemic. In Namibia, the COVID - 19 vaccine rollout began in March 2021, with a national target of vaccinating at least 60% of the population. This study aimed to evaluate the immune response to COVID - 19 infection and vaccination with either Sinopharm, Covishield, Pfizer and Jansen vaccines. The study population consisted of participants residing in Oranjemund, Namibia.
Methods and Results: We enrolled 260 participants, among which 80.4% had received COVID - 19 vaccination. Serum samples were collected between December 15, 2021, and June 15, 2022. Levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike (anti-S) and anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (anti-N) antibodies in vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals were measured using qualitative and quantitative chemiluminescence immunoassays. The results showed that 92.5%(n=112) participants with laboratory-confirmed COVID - 19 infection had detectable anti-N antibodies, indicating immunity due to prior infection. 54.6% (n=76) of individuals without a history of infection also had reactive anti-N antibodies, suggesting immunity. All vaccinated participants showed the production of anti-S antibodies. 99.5% (n=187) of individuals with anti-N antibodies had detectable anti-S antibodies. Notably, 7.5% (n=9) of participants with a history of COVID - 19 infection did not have detectable anti-N antibodies. We found a strong correlation r2 = 0.69 (p-value = 3.755e-11) between COVID - 19 diagnosis and testing positive (reactive) for Anti-N antibodies.
Conclusions: We found a high level of detectable anti-N antibodies in patients who had a history of COVID - 19 infection and anti-S antibodies in those who were vaccinated. The study provides insights into the immune response to COVID - 19 infection and vaccination in Namibia, contributing to the understanding of vaccine effectiveness and development of immunity.
Higher adiposity predicts greater intra-individual inconsistencies in postprandial glycemic measurements – An analysis of three randomized controlled trials
Authors: Henry Jeyakumar , Toh Darel Wee Kiat , Ponnalagu Shalini , Camps Stefan , Lim Joseph , Koh Melvin Xu Nian 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Acute glycemic responses offer important insights into glucose homeostasis although the repeatability of these measurements particularly in an Asian context remains unclear. This research aimed to critically investigate the consistencies of the postprandial glycemic profile within and between individuals.
Subjects/Methods: This was a secondary analysis of three randomized controlled trials which fed subjects with glucose (and other carbohydrate-rich foods), and measured postprandial blood glucose at regular intervals. Rank-order consistency in the glycemic profile between acute glucose treatments was evaluated and compared against a range of demographic, anthropometric and cardio-metabolic health related indicators to delineate potential confounding effects. Correlations between the incremental area under curve at 120 min (iAUC120 min) for glucose and the carbohydrate-rich foods were further explored.
Results: Rank-order consistency was identified to be moderate, with intra-individual inconsistencies marginally lower than inter-individual inconsistencies. Notably, greater inconsistencies within individuals were directly correlated with BMI and fat-mass index (P < 0.01) albeit non-significant for age, ethnicity and other cardio-metabolic health-related risk indicators. Across the trials, there were positive monotonic correlations between the iAUC120 min for glucose and simple sugars (sucrose, isomaltulose), as well as different varieties of rice (jasmine white, Bapatla brown, Bapatla white; p < 0.05). However, there was a lack of associations with pastas (semolina and wholegrain penne, spaghetti) and mee pok noodles.
Conclusion: There are inherent inconsistencies in postprandial glycemic measurements within indiviudals, particularly among those with higher adiposity. These confounders need to be kept in mind for appropriate and meaningful interpretations of glycemia.
Transcriptomic characterization of the histopathological growth patterns in breast cancer liver metastases
Authors: Leduc Sophia , Nguyen Ha-Linh , Richard François , Zels Gitte , Mahdami Amena , Schepper Maxim , Maetens Marion , Pabba Anirudh , Jaekers Joris , Latacz Emily , Bohlok Ali , Vanderheyden Evy , Brussel Thomas , Boeckx Bram , Schepers Rogier , Lambrechts Diether , Dirix Luc , Larsimont Denis , Vankerckhove Sophie , Lucidi Valerio , Topal Baki , Bachir Imane , Donckier Vincent , Floris Giuseppe , Vermeulen Peter , Desmedt Christine 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) remains incurable and liver metastases (LM) are observed in approximately 50% of all patients with mBC. In some cases, surgical resection of breast cancer liver metastases (BCLM) could be associated with prolonged survival. However, there are currently no validated marker to identify these patients. The interactions between the metastatic cancer cells and the liver microenvironment result in two main histopathological growth patterns (HGP): replacement (r-HGP), characterized by a direct contact between the cancer cells and the hepatocytes, and desmoplastic (d-HGP), in which a fibrous rim surrounds the tumor cells. In patients who underwent resection of BCLM, the r-HGP is associated with a worse postoperative prognosis than the d-HGP. Here, we aim at unraveling the phenotypic differences between these HGP within ten patients presenting both HGP within the same metastasis. The transcriptomic analyses reveal up-regulation of genes involved in cell cycle, DNA repair, vessel co-option and cell motility in r-HGP and angiogenesis, wound healing, and several immune processes in d-HGP LM. Understanding the biology of the LM could open up avenues to refine treatment of BC patients with LM.