In recent years, cerium dioxide (CeO2) has attracted considerable attention owing to its remarkable performance in various applications, including photocatalysis, fuel cells, and catalysis. This study explores the effect of nickel (Ni) doping on the structural, thermal, and chemical properties of CeO2 nanorods, particularly focusing on oxygen vacancy-related phenomena. Utilizing X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), alterations in crystal structure and peak shifts were observed, indicating successful Ni doping and the formation of Ni2O3 at higher doping levels, likely due to non-equilibrium reactions. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed changes in oxygen release mechanisms, with increasing Ni doping resulting in the release of lattice oxygen at lower temperatures. Raman spectroscopy corroborated these findings by identifying characteristic peaks associated with oxygen vacancies, facilitating the assessment of Ni doping levels. Overall, this study underscores the substantial impact of Ni doping on CeO2 nanorods, shedding light on tailored catalytic applications through modulation of oxygen vacancies while preserving the nanorod morphology.

Recent studies have demonstrated a relationship between poor vitamin D status and respiratory infections and diarrhea among young children. Acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) and diarrhea are among the two most important causes of death in under-5 children. In this analysis, we examine the extent to which vitamin-D deficiency (<10 ng/ml) predicts these outcomes using data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of daily folic acid and/ or vitamin B12 supplementation for six months in 6 to 30 months old children conducted in Delhi, India. Of the 960 subjects who had vitamin-D concentrations measured, 331(34.5%) were vitamin-D deficient. We found, after controlling for relevant potential confounders (age, sex, breastfeeding status, wasting, stunting, underweight, anemia status at base line and season), the risk of ALRI was significantly higher among vitamin-D deficient (OR 1.26; 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.55) compared to vitamin-D-replete children in the six months follow-up period. Vitamin-D status was not significantly associated with episodes of diarrhea and clinical pneumonia. The extent of causal relationship of vitamin-D status and ALRI needs to be explored in further studies.

Effects of oxygen content on microstructure and creep property of FGH96 superalloy were investigated. When oxygen content increased from 135ppm to 341ppm, prior particle boundary (PPB) rose from degree 2 to degree 3, and the size of γ′ phase on PPB enlarged from 1.07μm to 1.27μm, and MC carbide size grew from 77.4nm to 104.0nm. Meanwhile, the steady creep rate accelerated form 4.34×10-3 h-1 to 1.87×10-2 h-1, and the creep rupture life shortened from 176h to 94h, and the creep rupture mode transferred from intergranular and transgranular mixed fracture to along PPB fracture. During creep, the micro-twins formation and gliding will be restrained by ∑3 boundaries. FGH96 superalloy with higher oxygen content contains less ∑3 boundaries and its micro-twins cross slipped instead of single direction slip in lower oxygen content superalloy. Consequently, specimen with higher oxygen content creeped faster and raptured earlier.

Using density functional theory (DFT), the density of states of NH4V3O8 (NVO) was analyzed pre and post-oxygen defects (Od) formation. The findings revealed a reduced bandgap in NVO after Od introduction, emphasizing the role of Od in enhancing conductivity of the material, thus improving its electrochemical attributes. Through the water bath method, both NVO and its oxygen-deficient counterpart, (NH4)2V10O25⸱8H2O (NVOd), were synthesized as potential cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). Experimental outcomes resonated with DFT predictions, highlighting the beneficial role of oxygen defects in boosting electrical conductivity. Notably, the refined material displayed a remarkable capacity of 479.3 mAh g-1 at 0.1 A g-1, underscoring its promise for advanced energy storage solutions.

Background/Objectives: Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause variable symptoms, which may be irreversible if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. We aimed to develop a widely accepted expert consensus to guide the practice of diagnosing and treating B12 deficiency. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of the literature published in PubMed since January 2003. Data were used to design a two-round Delphi survey to study the level of consensus among 42 experts. Results: The panelists agreed on the need for educational and organizational changes in the current medical practices for diagnosing and treating B12 deficiency. Recognition of clinical symptoms should receive the highest priority in establishing the diagnosis. There is agreement that the serum B12 concentration is useful as a screening marker, whereas methylmalonic acid or homocysteine can support the diagnosis. Patient lifestyle, disease history and medications can provide clues to the cause of B12 deficiency. Regardless of the cause of the deficiency, initial treatment with parenteral B12 was regarded as the first choice for patients with acute and severe manifestations of B12 deficiency. The use of high-dose oral B12 at different frequencies may be considered for long-term treatment. Prophylactic B12 supplementation should be considered for specific high-risk groups. Conclusions: There is a consensus that clinical symptoms need to receive more attention in establishing a diagnosis. B12 laboratory markers can support the diagnosis. The severity of clinical symptoms, the causes of B12 deficiency and the treatment goals govern decisions regarding the route and dose of B12 therapy.

Abstract: Toxicity of emerging organic pollutants to photosystems of aquatic plants are still not well clarified. This study aimed to develop a novel ecotoxicological experimental protocol based on nanoscale electrochemical mapping of photosynthetic oxygen evolution of aquatic plants by SECM (scanning electrochemical microscopy). The protocol was also checked by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), the traditional Clark oxygen electrode method and chlorophyll fluorescence technique. The typical persistent organic pollutant 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) in water environment and the common aquatic Microsorium pteropus (M. pteropus) were chosen as the model organic pollutant and tested plant, respectively. It was found that the SECM method could well discriminated the responses of stoma micromorphology and spatial pattens of photosynthetic oxygen evolution on single stoma. The shape of stoma blurred with increasing 2,4-DCP concentration, which was in good agreement with the CLSM images. The dose-response curves and IC50 values obtained from the SECM data were verified by the data measured by the traditional Clark oxygen electrode method and chlorophyll fluorescence test. The IC50 value of single stoma oxygen emission of 24 h exposed plant leave, which was derived from the SECM current data (32535 μg L-1), was close to those calculated from the maximum photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) measured by chlorophyll fluorescence test (33963 μg L-1), and the Clark oxygen electrode method photosynthetic oxygen evolution rate (32375 μg L-1). The 72 h and 96 h 2,4-DCP exposure data further confirmed the reliability of the nanoscale stoma oxygen emission mapping methodology for ecotoxicological assessment. In this protocol, the procedures for how to collect effective electrochemical data and how to extract useful information from the single stoma oxygen emission pattern were well established. This study showed that SECM is a feasible and reliable ecotoxicological tool for evaluation of toxicity of organic pollutants to higher plants with unique nanoscale visualization advantage over the conventional methods.

Several observations have shown that patients with polycythemia have iron deficiency. Our objectives were to report the prevalence of iron deficiency, to evaluate the diagnostic performance of serum ferritin in polycythemia vera and to describe the mechanisms of this association. This is a retrospective descriptive and analytical study carried out in the internal medicine department of the Henri Mondor Hospital, Aurillac, France. The study involved 114 patients with polycythemia, followed in the department from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2021. To evaluate the diagnostic performance, the JAK2 mutation was considered as the gold standard of diagnosis. Thirty-three patients had polycythemia vera and 76 patients had secondary polycythemia. The mean age of the patients was 61.79 years (±15.44) with a sex ratio of 4.43. The overall prevalence of iron deficiency was 21.05%. The prevalence was 53% in polycythemia vera group and 1.32% in secondary polycythemia group. The risk of iron deficiency was high in polycythemia vera (OR=115; 95% CI [14.4-918.2], p<0.000). The sensitivity and specificity of serum ferritin were 52.63% and 100% respectively. Assessment of iron deficiency should be part of the initial evaluation of polycythemia. The presence of iron deficiency is specific for polycythemia vera.

Oxidative stress has been implicated in cellular senescence and aging, as well as in the onset and progression of many diverse genetic and acquired diseases and conditions. The search for biomarkers of oxidative stress has become relevant to many biomedical fields using many different methods and approaches. Fluorescence methodology is advantageous because of its simplicity and high sensitivity. Fluorescent probes are frequently used to investigate the role of reactive oxygen species in oxidative stress in experimental or clinical settings, often involving the use of flow cytometry and related single-cell based technologies. To assess the specific role of reactive oxygen species in oxidative stress studies by cytometric methodologies, it is essential to detect and characterize these species accurately. However, the detection and quantitation of individual intracellular ROS is still a challenge, but different and complementary strategies may focus on other endpoints of oxidative stress. In this review we present and discuss briefly the limitations and perspectives of such approaches. Based on our results, we also provide recommendations for proper design of cytometric studies of oxidative stress in order to prevent or minimize experimental errors..

Our aim was to determine the secondary antibody deficiency profiles of patients in a mesoregion of São Paulo state, Brazil, focusing on infectious diseases. Demographic characteristics, clinical and laboratory data were obtained from electronic files; infections were classified as organ-specific and graded as mild, moderate, life-threatening, and fatal. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) accounted for 30% of patients, nephrotic syndrome (NS) 25%; chronic lymphocyte leukemia 20%, and multiple myeloma 15%. Patients with NS were younger than those in other groups, and hypo-γ-globulinemia was detected in 94.1%, IgG <400 mg/dL in 60.0%, IgA <40 mg/dL in 55.0%, and CD19 <20 cells/mm³ in 30.0%. One hundred and one infections were found; 82.1% were classified as mild or moderate, 7.9% as life-threatening, and 1.9% as fatal. Respiratory tract infections were more prevalent (41.5%), and pneumonia accounted for 19.8%. Lower levels of infections were found in patients with NS compared with NHL (P=0.0001). Most patients progressed to hypo-γ-globulinemia and secondary antibody deficiency after treatment with immunosuppressants, and mild and moderate infections were predominant. These therapies are increasing in patients with different diseases, therefore monitoring hypo-γ-globulinemia and infections may help to identify patients at high risk for severe complications, antibiotic prophylaxis or treatment, and immunoglobulin replacement

Matrix metalloproteinases have been implicated in muscular dystrophy progression and recent studies described the role of MMP-10 in skeletal muscle pathology of young dystrophic mice. Nevertheless, its implication in dystrophin deficient hearts is still missing. Here, we aimed at investigating MMP-10 implication in severe muscular dystrophic progression and characterize MMP-10 loss in skeletal and cardiac muscles of aged dystrophic mice. We examined the histopathological effect of MMP-10 ablation in aged mdx mice, both in the hind limb muscles and heart tissues. We have found that MMP-10 loss compromises survival rates of aged mdx mice, with skeletal and cardiac muscles developing a chronic inflammatory response. Our findings indicate that MMP-10 is implicated in severe muscular dystrophy progression, identifying a new area of investigation that could lead to future therapies for dystrophic muscles.

Soot combustion experiments with 5%O2/He were conducted using model soot, and four distinct compositions of CexPr1-xO2-δ oxides were prepared, varying nominal cerium com-positions (x=0, 0.2, 0.3, and 1). The catalyst samples were comprehensively characterized using techniques such as XRD, Raman spectroscopy, HR-TEM, N2 adsorption at −196 °C, XPS, O2-TPD, H2-TPR, and work function measurements. The Pr-rich compositions, rang-ing from Ce0.3Pr0.7O2-δ to PrO2-δ, resulted in a significant increase in the total evolved O2 amounts and enhanced catalyst reducibility. However, a decrease in textural properties of the catalysts was noted, being particularly important for the pure praseodymia under the synthesis route conducted. The catalytic activity was investigated under two contact modes of mixing between soot and catalyst: loose and tight. The results revealed that the catalytic performance is associated with the surface contact in tight contact mode and with the combination of surface/subsurface/bulk oxygen mobility and the BET surface ar-ea in loose contact mode. Notably, the T10 and T50 parameters were achieved at much lower temperatures than the uncatalyzed soot combustion, even under loose contact conditions. Specifically, the 50% conversion was achieved at 511℃ and 538℃ for Ce0.3Pr0.7O2 and Ce0.2Pr0.8O2, respectively. While no direct correlation between catalytic activity and work function was observed a significant relationship emerges between work function values and the formation of oxy-gen vacancies, whatever the conditions used for these measurements. On the other hand, the ability to generate a high population of oxygen vacancies at low temperatures, rather than the direct activation of gas-phase O2, influences the catalytic performance of Pr-doped ceria catalysts, highlighting the importance of surface/subsurface oxygen vacancy generation, which was the parameter which showed better correlation with the catalytic activity, whatever the soot conversion value or the mode of contact considered.

The commercial oxygen-free copper sheets were cold-rolled with reduction rates ranging from 20% to 87% reduction rate and annealed at 400, 500 and 600 °C. The microstructure and texture evolution during cold-rolling and annealing processes were studied using optical microscopy (OM), the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD). The results show that the deformation textures of {123} (S) , {112} (Copper) and {110} (Brass) were continuously enhanced with the increase of cold-rolling reduction. The orientations along the α-oriented fiber converged towards Brass and the orientation density of β fiber obviously increased when the rolling reduction exceeded 60%. The recrystallization texture was significantly affected by the cold-rolling reduction. After 60% cold-rolling reduction, Copper and S textures components gradually decreased and {011} recrystallization texture component formed with the increase of annealing temperature. After 87% cold-rolling reduction, a strong Cube texture formed and other textures were inhibited with the increase of annealing temperature. The strong Brass and S deformation texture was conducive to the formation of a strong Cube annealing texture. The density of annealing twin boundary decreased with the increase of annealing temperature, and more annealing twin boundaries formed in the oxygen-free copper sheets with the increase of cold rolling reduction.

Background: Early postoperative airway management after laryngo-tracheal surgery is crucial. Acute respiratory failure due to glottis’ oedema may occur, requiring reintubation. This can prolong ventilatory assistance, jeopardizing the anastomosis. To date, only judicious steroid administration and fluid management are available to avoid more invasive procedures. High-Flow-Oxygen-Therapy(HFOT) is a noninvasive O2 support method providing humidification, warmed air, Positive-End-Expiratory-Pressure(AIRVO2). No data exist about HFOT use to prevent early complications after laryngo-tracheal surgery. Methods: Between Sept.2020-Sept.2022, 107 consecutive patients underwent laryngo-tracheal surgery received HFOT(Group A). Data and long-term results were compared with those of 80 patients operated between Sept.2018-Aug.2020(Group B), when HFOT was not available. All patients were operated in a single center. No pre- or post-operative settings changed, except for HFOT introduction. We analyzed and compared the risk for “delayed” reintubation (unexpected reintubation within the first 24-48 hours after extubating/laryngeal mask removal) in the two groups. Results: No patients reported HFOT-related adverse events. Control group(B) presented “delayed” reintubation in 37% (p= 0.027), Intensive Care Unit admission in 67%(p=0.005) and longer hospital stay(p=0.001) compared to HFOT group(A). Minor complications rate was 3% in both group and overall mortality was 0%. Re-stenosis was described in 4.6% of HFOT group, without a statistically significant difference (p=0.7006). Conclusions: Our study is the first to investigate HFOT use in patients undergoing laryngo-tracheal surgery, potentially representing a consistent innovation in the peri-operative management of these patients. With the limit of a retrospective series, we would suggest HFOT use for preventing post-operative reintubation rate, possibly reducing ICU admission and hospital stay.

Background: Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) have shown efficacy in delivering adequate oxygen for various patient scenarios; however, there is a lack of research on POCs’ efficacy across different respiratory rates specifically among COPD patients. Methods: This bench study was conducted using the IngMar Medical Active Servo Lung 5000 attached to flexible tubing, which simulated an adult patient’s nares. An oxygen analyzer (Maxtec Handi+) was connected to the tubing 6 inches below the nares to estimate the inspired oxygen concentration at the adult trachea. A standard nasal cannula was placed in the simulated patient nares, which was also attached to each POC. The IngMar Lung was programmed to simulate a COPD patient at the following respiratory rates: 15, 20, 30, and 40 breaths/min. POC devices were then compared to an oxygen wall outlet and a standard oxygen concentrator (non-portable CAIRE device). The POCs included the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort (with Autosat), CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort (without Autosat), Inogen G4, Inogen G5, Phillips SimplyGo Mini, GCE Zen-O lite, Drive Medical iGo2, and Kingon POCs. Descriptive statistics and ANOVAs were computed to determine statistically significant differences between POCS and control devices (wall oxygen and standalone oxygen concentrator). Results: Across most respiratory rate scenarios, the wall oxygen and standalone oxygen concentrator (control group) resulted higher oxygen measurements compared to the POCs. Among the POCs on setting 2, the highest oxygen measurement for 15, 30, and 40 breaths/min was the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort with AutoSat on sensitivity 5 (24.43%, 24.81%, and 25.0%, respectively). On setting 2, the 20 breaths/min highest oxygen measurement was the Inogen G4 (24.43%). For setting 5, the highest oxygen measurement for 15 breaths/min and 40 breaths/min was the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort without AutoSat (31.56% and 26.13%, respectively), while the highest oxygen measurement for 20 breaths/min was the Inogen G5 (30.26%), and the highest oxygen measurement for 30 breaths/min was the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort with AutoSat on sensitivity level 5 (27.89%). Conclusions: The oxygen administered through the wall and the standalone CAIRE oxygen concentrator all delivered higher oxygen levels compared to the POCs (with the exception of the 40 breaths/min scenario on setting 2). However, among the POCs, the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort with AutoSat, CAIRE Freestyle Comfort without AutoSat, and the Inogen G4 all performed the best among the various breathing rate scenarios.

Vitamin D has important anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial properties and plays a central role in host immune response. Due to the crucial role of the kidneys in the metabolism of vitamin D, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), are prone to vitamin D deficiency. The resultant reduction in the production of calcitriol, the activated form of vitamin D in patients with CKD is responsible for exacerbating the existing renal impairment and periodontal inflammation. Recent evidence suggests a bidirectional, causal relationship between periodontitis and renal functional status. Both conditions have shared pathophysiologic mechanisms including oxidative stress, increases in the systemic inflammatory burden and impaired host response. This review explores the association between vitamin D, CKD and periodontitis. The review summarises the current evidence base for the classical and non-classical vitamin D metabolic pathways, the biological mechanisms linking vitamin D deficiency, CKD and periodontitis, as well as the bidirectional relationship between the two chronic inflammatory conditions. Finally, the paper explores the impact of vitamin D deficiency on CKD, periodontitis, and related co-morbidities.

Due to the imbalance between the supply and demand of oxygen, the oxygen system of iron- and steel-making enterprises in China has problems with high oxygen emission and high pressure in the pipelines, resulting in the energy consumption of oxygen production being high. To relieve this problem, using a large-scale iron- and steel-making mill as a case study, the research on demand forecasting and optimal scheduling of the oxygen system was carried out. The ARIMA model and the GABP model are employed to forecast oxygen demand. Based on the forecast results, an optimal scheduling model for the oxygen system was developed to conduct optimal scheduling. The case study shows that based on the oxygen demand forecast and the optimal scheduling, the oxygen emission and the pipeline pressure in the studied iron- and steel-making enterprise can be significantly reduced, thereby achieving considerable energy-saving effects and economic benefits. Specifically, the following conclusions are obtained: (1) For the oxygen demand forecast, the prediction accuracy of the GABP model is better than that of the ARIMA model. The average MAPE of the 12 sets of data of the ARIMA and GABP models are 23.8% and 20.2%, respectively. (2) By comparing the scheduling results and the field data, it is found that after the scheduling, the amount of oxygen emission has decreased by 6.32%, the pipeline pressure has decreased by 0.61%, and the energy consumption of oxygen compression has decreased by 1.6%. Considering both the oxygen emission loss and the energy consumption of oxygen compression, the total power consumption of the oxygen system is reduced by 1.38%, which saves the electricity cost of about 9.03 million RMB per year.

Background Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) evolved into a major diagnostic marker in high grade ovarian cancer (HGOC) predicting the response to poly (Adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) and also platinum-based therapy. In addition to HRD, the type of peritoneal tumor spread influences treatment response and patient survival; miliary type tumor spread has poorer predicted outcome than non-miliary type tumor spread. Methods Known methods for HRD assessment were adapted for our technical requirements and the Predictive-value Integrated Genomic Instability Score (PIGIS) for HRD assessment evolved as an outcome. PIGIS was validated in HGOC samples from 122 patients. We used PIGIS to analyze whether the type of tumor spread correlated with HRD status and whether this had an impact on survival. Results We demonstrated that PIGIS can discriminate HRD positive from HRD negative samples. Tumors with miliary tumor spread are HRD negative and have a very bad prognosis with a progression free survival (PFS) of 15.6 months and an overall survival (OS) of 3.9 years. However, HRD negative non-miliary spreading tumors in our cohort had a much better prognosis (PFS 35.4 months, OS 8.9 years), similar to HRD positive tumors (PFS 34.7 months, OS 8.9 years). Conclusions Our results indicate that in a predominantly PARPi naïve cohort the type of tumor spread might be a better predictor of response to platinum sensitivity than HRD. It remains to be determined, whether this also applies for sensitivity to PARPi.

Abstract Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has a number of vital functions in all cells, both mitochondrial and extra-mitochondrial. In addition to its key role in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, CoQ10 serves as a lipid soluble antioxidant, plays an important role in fatty acid beta-oxidation and pyrimidine and lysosomal metabolism, as well as directly mediating the expression of a number of genes, including those involved in inflammation. Because of the multiplicity of roles in cell function, it is not surprising that deficiency of CoQ10 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a wide range of disorders. CoQ10 deficiency is broadly divided into primary and secondary types. Primary CoQ10 deficiency results from mutations in genes involved in the CoQ10 biosynthetic pathway. In man, at least 10 genes are required for the biosynthesis of functional CoQ10, a mutation in any one of which can result in a deficit in CoQ10 status. Patients may respond well to oral CoQ10 supplementation, although the condition must be recognised sufficiently early, before irreversible tissue damage has occurred. In this article, we have reviewed clinical studies (up to March 2023) relating to the identification of these deficiencies, and the therapeutic outcomes of CoQ10 supplementation.

Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (SSADH-D) is a genetic disorder that results from the aberrant metabolism of the neurotransmitter γ-amino butyric acid (GABA). The disease is caused by the impaired activity of the mitochondrial enzyme succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase. SSADH-D manifests as varying degree of mental retardation, autism, ataxia and epileptic seizures, but the clinical picture is highly heterogeneous. So far, there is no approved therapy for this disease. In this review, we briefly summarize the molecular genetics of SSADH-D, the past and ongoing clinical trials and the emerging features of the molecular pathogenesis, including redox imbalance and mitochondrial dysfunction. The main aim of this review is to discuss the potential use of further therapy approaches that have so far not been tested in SSADH-D, such as pharmacological chaperones, read-through drugs and gene therapy. Special attention will also be paid to elucidating the role of patient advocacy organizations in facilitating research and in the communication between the researchers and the patients.

Cutaneous mycoses are common infections whose treatment has become more complex due to increasing antifungal resistance and the need for prolonged therapies, hindering patient adher-ence and increasing the incidence of adverse effects. Consequently, the use of physical therapies, especially photodynamic therapy (PDT), has increased for the treatment of onychomycosis due to its antimicrobial capacity mediated by the production of reactive oxygen species. This study investigates the in vitro effect of the combination of blue light (448 nm) and red light (645 nm) with terbinafine on the cell viability of human keratinocytes and the production of reactive ox-ygen species. The combination of terbinafine and blue light exhibits a synergistic effect on the production of reactive oxygen species and a significant increase in the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme involved in the reduction of superoxide ions (O2-) and the genera-tion of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Such effect could be useful in clinical practice to improve the response of cutaneous mycoses to pharmacological treatment, reduce their toxicity, and shorten their duration.

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations of hydrogen adsorption on titanium nitride had previously shown that hydrogen may adsorb on both titanium and nitrogen sites with a moderate adsorption energy. Further, the diffusion barrier was also found to be low. These findings may qualify TiN, a versatile multifunctional material with electronic conductivity, as electrode material for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). This was the main impetus of this work which aims to experimentally and theoretically investigate the electrocatalytic properties of TiN-layers that were processed on Ti substrate using reactive ion sputtering. The properties are discussed focusing on the role of oxygen defects introduced during the sputtering process on the HER. Based on DFT calculations, it is shown that these oxygen defects alter the electronic environment of the Ti atoms which entails a low hydrogen adsorption energy in the range of -0.1 eV; this leads to HER performances that match those of Pt-NPs in acidic media. When a few nanometr thick layer of Pd-NPs is sputtered on-top of the TiN-layer, the performance is drastically reduced. This is interpreted in terms of oxygen defects being scavenged by the Pd-NPs near the surface which is thought to reduce the hydrogen adsorption sites.

Two billion people worldwide suffer from anemia with reproductive-age women being disproportionately affected. Iron plays a crucial role in cellular function and impacts cognition, physical function, and quality of life. Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are associated with adverse effects on pregnancy and fetal development. Oral iron supplementation has been the standard treatment for IDA for decades often producing sub-optimal outcomes. Many babies are still being born with ID and suffer adverse sequelae due to inadequate iron levels in the mothers. Is it time to consider broad scale-up of parenteral iron as a new standard of care?

Natural cytokinins are a promising group of cytoprotective and anti-tumor agents. In this research, we synthesized a set of novel cytokinin analogs with alkyl substituents at various positions of the aromatic moiety, as well as with oxygen-containing groups, and tested their antiproliferative activity in MDA-MB-231, A-375, and U-87 MG cell lines, and cytoprotective properties in H2O2 and CoCl2 models. Two amino-linked compounds were anti-proliferative with the ability to act synergistically with doxorubicin, and two carbamate-based ones were cytoprotective. According to the molecular docking data, anti-proliferation was based on the A2AR and APRT inhibition and cytoprotection on the CDK2 inhibition. The obtained results are promising for the development of novel anti-cancer therapeutics.

Ghrelin and obestatin, two antagonist peptide hormones, are purportedly involved in stimulating appetite and controlling energy balance in humans. Serum ghrelin level is also associated with iron deficiency anemia (IDA), but no study has yet been made of the obestatin level in patients with IDA, even though both hormones are a single gene product. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation is to see whether there is a link between IDA and these two hormones among other hematological parameters in patients with IDA. To measure ghrelin and obestatin, human saliva and serum were collected from 30 women with IDA, aged 31.7 ± 10.7 years, and 30 control women, aged 30.2 ± 8.0 years, with repeated collection of samples over a period of 1 week and 1 month. Saliva and serum ghrelin levels were measured by ELISA. Serum hemoglobin, ferritin, hematocrit and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) values were determined with an Olympus AU2700. Saliva and serum ghrelin and obestatin levels were significantly lower in the IDA group compared with controls; these levels increased slightly above baseline with iron treatment, but remained below the control values. Furthermore, and as expected, serum hemoglobin, ferritin, and hematocrit levels were significantly increased with iron treatment, while total iron-binding capacity decreased compared to baseline concentrations. The findings suggest that IDA might be linked to imbalance of circulating (serum) and non-circulating (saliva) ghrelin and obestatin levels. Decreased ghrelin and obestatin might destroy iron homeostasis through its effect on intestinal absorption. Measuring these hormone levels might be useful for monitoring the response to iron treatment. Also, serum and saliva levels for both hormones were well correlated. Thus, using saliva in place of serum for monitoring the two hormones should minimize inconvenience and patient discomfort.

Zinc, an essential trace mineral, plays a crucial role in over 300 enzymes that are vital for major metabolic pathways. Zinc deficiency can cause various symptoms and sometimes lead to serious conditions, especially after surgery. Therefore, recognising the prevalence and predictors of zinc deficiency before surgery is essential for preventing associated symptoms. Although zinc deficiency is linked to several diseases, its association with orthopaedic disorders remains unclear. This retrospective study aimed to explore the prevalence and predictors of zinc deficiency in orthopaedic inpatients prior to surgery. This retrospective case-control study aimed to investigate the prevalence and predictors of zinc deficiency in orthopaedic inpatients. Patients admitted to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center between 15 February 2022 and 31 August 2022 were included. The case-control design categorised patients into zinc deficiency (case) and non-deficiency (control) groups based on serum zinc concentrations (< 60 µg/dL). The data retrieved from the centre’s database included demographics, comorbidities, reasons for hospitalisation, fracture details, medication use, and laboratory values. Statistical tests included Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and a two-sample t-test for continuous vari-ables. To identify factors associated with zinc deficiency, multivariate analysis ( backward stepwise regression model) was performed for items that were significantly different from the univariate analysis. A total of 156 orthopaedic patients were included in this study. Forty-seven patients (30.1%) had a zinc deficiency. The fracture rate was significantly higher in the case group than in the control group (68.1 % vs. 33.9 %; p < 0.001); spinal disease was significantly less common in the case group than in the control group (2.1 % vs. 31.2 %; p < 0.001); and OA was significantly less common in the case group than in the control group (8.5 % vs. 22.9 %; p = 0.04). The case group had signif-icantly higher rates of fragility and hip and pelvic fractures than did the control group. Spinal disease was less common in the case group than in the control group. Laboratory findings revealed significantly lower mean serum zinc (46.2 µg/dL) in the case group than in the control group (76.3 µg/dL), accompanied by lower albumin and haemoglobin concentrations. Hypoalbuminemia and anaemia were more prevalent in the case group than in the control group. Multivariate logistic regression identified age ≥ 60, anaemia, hip fracture, and hypoalbuminaemia as independent predictive factors for zinc deficiency, while spinal disease was associated with decreased risk. This study identified zinc deficiency in 30.1% of orthopaedic inpatients based on serum zinc concen-trations. Furthermore, age ≥ 60, anaemia, hip fracture, and hypoalbuminaemia were determined as independent predictive factors for zinc deficiency.

The autonomic regulation of hepatic metabolism offers a novel target for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the molecular characteristics of neurons that regulate the brain-liver axis remain unclear. Since mice lacking neuronal lipoprotein lipase (LPL) develop perturbations in neuronal lipid-sensing and systemic energy balance, we reasoned that LPL might be a component of pre-autonomic neurons involved in the regulation of hepatic metabolism. Here we show that despite obesity, mice with reduced neuronal LPL (NEXCreLPLflox [LPL KD]) show improved glucose tolerance and reduced hepatic lipid accumulation with aging compared to WT controls (LPLflox). To determine the effect of LPL deficiency on neuronal physiology, liver-related neurons were identified in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus using the transsynaptic retrograde tracer PRV-152. Patch-clamp studies revealed reduced inhibitory post-synaptic currents in liver-related neurons of LPL KD mice. Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM) was used to visualize metabolic changes in LPL-depleted neurons. Quantification of the free vs. bound Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NADH) and Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide (FAD) revealed increased glucose utilization and TCA cycle flux in LPL-depleted neurons compared to controls. Global metabolomics from hypothalamic cell lines either deficient in, or over-expressing, LPL recapitulated these findings. Our data suggest that LPL is a novel feature of liver–related preautonomic neurons in the PVN. Moreover, LPL loss is sufficient to cause changes in neuronal substrate utilization and function, which may precede changes in hepatic metabolism.

This study was undertaken to elucidate the role of trehalose (Tre) in mitigating oxidative stress under salinity and low P in maize. Eight-day-old maize seedlings of two maize varieties, BARI Hybrid Maize-7 and BARI Hybrid Maize-9 were subjected to salinity (150 mM NaCl), low P (5 µM KH2PO4) and their combined stress with or without 10 mM Tre for 15-d.Salinity and combined stress significantly inhibited the shoot length, root length, and root volume, whereas, low P increased the root length and volume in both genotypes. Exogenous Tre in the stress treatments increased all of the growth parameters as well as decreased the salinity, low P and combined stress-mediated Na+/K+, ROS, MDA, LOX activity and MG in both genotypes. Under salinity and low P stress, the SOD activity increased in both genotypes, but the activity decreased in combined stress. POD activity increased in all stress treatments. Interestingly, Tre application enhanced the SOD activity in all the stress treatments but inhibited the POD activity. Both CAT and GPX activity were increased by saline and low P stress while the activities inhibited in combined stress. Similar results were found for APX, GR, and DHAR activities in both genotypes. However, MDHAR activity was inhibited in all the stresses. Interestingly, Tre enhanced CAT APX, GPX, GR, MDHAR and DHAR activities suggesting the amelioration of ROS scavenging in maize under all the stresses. Increased GST activity in presence or absence of Tre might involve in detoxification of hydroperoxides as well as leaf senescence. On the other hand, increased glyoxalase activities in saline and low P stress in BHM-9 suggested better MG detoxification system because of down-regulation of Gly-I activity in BHM-7 in those stresses. Tre also increased the glyoxalase activities in both genotypes under all the stresses. Tre improved the growth in maize seedlings by decreasing Na+/K+, ROS, MDA, and MG through regulating antioxidant and glyoxalase systems.

Individual susceptibility to pulmonary oxygen toxicity (PO2tox) is highly variable and currently lacks a reliable biomarker for predicting pulmonary hyperoxic stress. As nitric oxide (NO) is involved in many respiratory system processes and functions, we aimed to determine if expired nitric oxide (FENO) levels can provide an indication of PO2tox susceptibility in humans. Eight U.S. Navy trained divers volunteered as subjects. The hyperoxic exposures consisted of six- and eight-hour hyperbaric chamber dives conducted on consecutive days in which subjects breathed 100% oxygen at 202.65 kPa. Subjects’ individual variability in pulmonary function and FENO was measured twice daily over five days and compared with their post-dive values to assess susceptibility to PO2tox. Only subjects who showed no decrements in pulmonary function following the six-hour exposure conducted the eight-hour dive. FENO decreased by 55% immediately following the six-hour oxygen exposure (n=8, p<0.0001) and by 63% following the eight-hour exposure (n=4, p<0.0001). Four subjects showed significant decreases in pulmonary function immediately following the six-hour exposure. These subjects had the lowest baseline FENO and the lowest post-dive FENO and had clinical symptoms of PO2tox. Individuals with low FENO were the first to develop PO2tox symptoms and deficits in pulmonary function from the hyperoxic exposures. These data suggest that endogenous levels of NO in the lung may protect against the development of PO2tox.

The cornea is an avascular tissue which has attracted much attention by the uniqueness of its anatomical characteristics, it has, in proportion, an enormous size, in relation to the number of vessels, because on average few cells in the organism are away more than 30 microns of a blood vessel. However, the cornea, with a diameter of between 11 and 12 mm, is a unique example. It has been tried to explain the notable absence of blood vessels in the cornea, arguing that corneal tissues are able to take oxygen directly from the air. In this article we are explaining that based on the physicochemical characteristics of molecular oxygen and the cell membrane, cytoplasm, water, and cellular metabolism, it is not possible that epithelial corneal cells directly take oxygen from the air, instead, corneal cells have molecules that can dissociate the water molecules thereby these cells, like any other eukaryotic cells, take the oxygen from the intracell water, like plants.

Oxidation reactions on semiconducting metal oxides (SMOs) surfaces have been extensively worked on in catalysis, fuel cells, and sensors. SMOs engaged powerfully in energy-related applications such as batteries, supercapacitors, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), and chemical gas sensors. The deep understanding of SMO surface and oxygen interactions and defect engineering has become significant because all those mentioned applications are based on the adsorption/absorption and consumption/transportation of adsorbed (physisorbed-chemisorbed) oxygen. More understanding of adsorbed oxygen and oxygen vacancies (〖V_O^•,V〗_O^(••)) is needed, as the former is the vital requirement for sensing chemical reactions, while the latter facilitates the replenishment of adsorbed oxygen ions on the surface. We determined the relation between sensor response (sensitivity) and the amounts of adsorbed oxygen ions (O_(2(ads))^-,O_((ads),)^- O_2(ads)^(2-),O_((ads))^(2-)), water/hydroxide groups (H2O/OH^-), oxygen vacancies (〖V_O^•,V〗_O^(••)), and ordinary lattice oxygen ions (O_lattice^(2-)) as a function of temperature. During hydrogen (H2) testing, the different oxidation states (W6+, W5+, and W4+) of WO3 were quantified and correlated with oxygen vacancy formation (〖V_O^•,V〗_O^(••)). We used a combined application of XPS, UPS, XPEEM-LEEM, and chemical, electrical and sensory analysis for H2 sensing. We established a correlation between the H2 sensing mechanism of WO3, sensor signal magnitude, the amount of adsorbed oxygen ions, and sensor testing temperature. This paper also provides a review of the detection, quantification, and identification of different adsorbed oxygen species. The different surface and bulk-sensitive characterization techniques relevant to analyzing the SMOs-based sensor are tabulated, providing the sensor designer with the chemical, physical, and electronic information extracted from each technique.

Our health requires continual protein synthesis for maintaining and repairing tissues. For protein synthesis to function, all the essential (indispensable) amino acids (IAA) that must be available in the diet, along with those AAs that the cells can synthesize, the dispensable amino acids. Here we review studies that have shown the location of the detector for IAA deficiency in the brain, specifically for recognition of IAA deficient diets (IAAD diets) in the anterior piriform cortex (APC), with subsequent responses in downstream brain areas. The APC is highly excitable, uniquely suited to serve as an alarm for reductions in IAAs. With a balanced diet, these neurons are kept from over-excitation by GABAergic inhibitory neurons. Because several transporters and receptors on the GABAergic neurons have rapid turnover times, they rely on intact protein synthesis to function. When an IAA is missing, its unique tRNA cannot be charged. This activates the enzyme General Control Nonderepressible 2 (GCN2) that is important in the initiation phase of protein synthesis. Without the inhibitory control supplied by GABAergic neurons, excitation in the circuitry is free to signal an urgent alarm. Studies in rodents have shown rapid recognition of IAA deficiency by quick rejection of the IAAD diet.

The altered nature of archaeological metals means they deteriorate at conditions where metals would be stable. The study of deterioration for such materials is hampered by their complexity, variability and difficulties in measuring deterioration. Placing an object in a sealed container, controlling the RH and pollutant gases and measuring any decrease in oxygen concentration is an accessible method to measure deterioration rate. It has been used for research into suitable environmental conditions to manage deterioration rates of such artefacts including differences in response for artefacts from different excavation sites. Some objects need careful control of RH to low values, this is expensive to maintain and poses risks to other artefacts displayed together. Many objects are actually stable up to quite high RH values and oxygen depletion testing has been used to identify those that can be safely displayed with minimal environmental control. The accelerated corrosion, ‘Oddy’ test is frequently used to sift out unsuitable display materials. The visual assessment is widely recognized to be subjective. The test container has been modified and oxygen depletion appears to give good quantitative measurements of corrosion that correspond with both visual comparison and corrosion quantification for copper, lead and steel, but not for silver.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to find out the incidence of anemia in pregnant women of Swat District; to analyze the iron variations and its dietary effects.Data were collected during the periods of January – September 2016. The study of samples comprised of 250 pregnant women in the different trimester. Blood sample from each woman was collected and full blood count (FBC) was conducted through Mindray BC-3000 plus hem analyzer for all pregnant individuals. Confirmed anemic cases were then examined for IDA with serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity (TIBC) through Randox kit and serum transferrin saturation was estimated by formula (serum ferritin saturation =serum iron ×100/TIBC). The total number of participants in the first trimester were 50, among them 26 women were suffer from iron deficiency anemia (IDA) with 52% weightage of prevalence rate, (mean Hb concentration 9.602 ± 0.87 g/dl). The rates of IDA were 63.3%; ( mean Hb concentration 8.48 ± 1.24 g/dl) and 54%; ( mean Hb concentration 9.18 ± 1.28 g/dl), among 150 and 50 participants in the second and third trimester, respectively. A significant correlation was found between serum ferritin and Hb, serum ferritin against MCV and serum ferritin against MCH. The high prevalence of anemia was found 78.2% in the age group from 26-30 followed by 78.2% in the age group 36-40 years compared to those of other age groups in the second trimester. In this study the prevalence of IDA in third trimester is lower compared to first and second trimester.

Scaffoldings play a critical role as temporary structures in supporting construction processes. Accidents at construction sites frequently stem from issues related to scaffoldings, including insufficient support caused by deviations from the construction design, insecure rod connections, or absence of cross bracing, which result in uneven loading and potential collapse, leading to casualties. In this study, we introduce a deep-learning-based, augmented reality (AR)-enabled system called scaffolding assembly deficiency detection system (SADDS) to assist field inspectors in identifying deficiencies in scaffolding assemblies. Inspectors have the flexibility to utilize SADDS through various devices, such as video cameras, mobile phones, or AR goggles (i.e., Microsoft HoloLens 2), for automated detection of deficiencies in scaffolding assemblies. The training test yielded satisfactory results, with a mean average precision of 0.89 and individual precision values of 0.96, 0.82, 0.90, and 0.89 for “qualified” frames and frames with the “missing cross-tie rod,” “missing lower-tie rod,” and “missing footboard” deficiencies, respectively. Field tests conducted at two construction sites demonstrated improved system performance compared to that in the training test. However, these field tests also revealed certain limitations of the SADDS system.

Deficiency of Cytochrome P450 Steroid 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2) represents 90% of cases in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), an autosomal recessive disease caused by defects in cortisol biosynthesis. Computational prediction along with functional studies are often the only way to classify variants to understand the links to disease-causing effects. Here we investigated the pathogenicity of uncharacterized variants in the CYP21A2 gene reported in the Brazilian and Portuguese populations. Physicochemical alterations, residue conservation, and effect on protein structure were accessed by computational analysis. The enzymatic performance was obtained by functional assay with the wild-type and mutant CYP21A2 proteins expressed in HEK293 cells. Computational analysis showed that p.W202R, p.E352V, and p.R484L have severely impaired the protein structure, while p.P35L, p.L199P, and p.P433L have moderate effects. The p.W202R, p.E352V, p.P433L, and p.R484L variants showed residual 21OH activity consistent with the simple virilizing phenotype. The p.P35L and p.L199P variants showed partial 21OH efficiency associated with the non-classical phenotype. Additionally, p.W202R, p.E352V and p.R484L also modified the protein expression level. We have determined how the selected CYP21A2 gene mutations affect the 21OH activity through structural and activity alteration contributing to the future diagnosis and management of 21OH deficiency.

Vitamin D (VD) is a pro-hormone essential for life in higher animals. It is present in few types of foods and is produced endogenously in the skin by a photochemical reaction. The final step of VD activation occurs in the kidneys involving a second hydroxylation reaction to generate the biologically active metabolite 1,25(OH)₂-VD. Extrarenal 1α-hydroxylation has also been described to have an important role in autocrine and paracrine signaling. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been in the spotlight as a major public health-care issue with an estimated prevalence of more than a billion people worldwide. Among individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), VDD prevalence has been reported to be as high as 80%. Classically VD plays a pivotal role in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. Nevertheless, there is a growing body of evidence supporting the importance of VD in many vital nonskeletal biological processes such as endothelial function, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system modulation, redox balance and innate and adaptive immunity. In individuals with CKD, VDD has been associated with albuminuria, faster progression of kidney disease and increased all-cause mortality. Recent guidelines support VD supplementation in CKD based on extrapolation from cohorts conducted in the general population. In this review, we discuss new insights on the multifactorial pathophysiology of VDD in CKD as well as how it may negatively modulate different organs and systems. We also critically review the latest evidence and controversies of VD monitoring and supplementation in CKD patients.

As the world’s population age, Cognitive Frailty (CF) is becoming one of the most serious health problems and elucidating its biological mechanisms along with prevention and treatments becomes increasingly important also considering the associated health costs. This pilot study aims to investigate the potential cognitive and neuropsychological effects of a 5-week treatment with a therapy based on the regenerative properties of ozone (O3) in a cohort of patients stratified according to CF. We also study the potential effects of O3 on blood-based biomarkers indicative of specific biological systems that may be altered in CF. Seventy-five older persons have been recruited and randomly assigned to receive the active treatment (150cc of oxygen-O2-O3 mixture at the concentration of 30ug of O3 per cc of O2) or O2, or the placebo (air) for 5 weeks. The primary endpoint is a change in the scores of clinical scales from baseline (T0) to weeks 3 (T3), 9 (T9), 15 (T15) after treatment. The secondary endpoint is a change in biomarkers levels resulting from transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomic patterns at the same times. This study will evaluate whether an intervention with the O2-O3 therapy could have potential cognitive, neuropsychological and biological effects on CF.

Saprotrophic fungi are key in global carbon cycling, capable of decomposing lignocellulose in wood. This study, for the first time, explores the influence of oxygen (O2) and temperature on methane (CH4) production by two fungi, Laetiporus sulphureus and Pleurotus sapidus. We examined CH4 formation under varying O2 levels (0 to 98%) and temperatures (17, 27, and 40 °C) when the fungi grew on pine wood, beech wood, and grass under sterile conditions. Our findings reveal a strong dependency of fungal CH4 production on O2 mixing ratios. Methane formation was highest when O2 levels exceeded 5%, whilst no CH4 formation was observed after complete O2 consumption by the fungi. Reintroducing O2 immediately resumed fungal CH4 production. When CH4 formation was normalized to O2 consumption (CH4_norm) a different pattern between species was observed. L. sulphureus showed higher CH4_norm rates with higher O2 levels, whereas P. sapidus showed elevated rates between 0-5% O2. Temperature also significantly influenced CH4 and CH4_norm rates, with the highest production at 27 °C, and comparatively lower rates at 17 and 40 °C. These results demonstrate that O2 levels and temperature are critical in controlling fungal CH4 emissions, a consideration necessary for future CH4 source predictions.

Iron deficiency in the fetal and neonatal period (perinatal iron deficiency) bodes poorly to neuro-development. Given its common occurrence and the negative impact on brain development, a screening and treatment strategy that is focused on optimizing brain development in perinatal iron deficiency is necessary. Pediatric societies currently recommend a universal iron supple-mentation strategy for full-term and preterm infants that does not consider individual variation in the body iron status and could lead to under-treatment or over-treatment. Moreover, the focus is on hematological normalcy and not optimal brain development. Several serum iron indices and hematological parameters in the perinatal period are associated with risk of abnormal neurodevelopment, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for screening and monitoring treatment in infants at risk for perinatal iron deficiency. A biomarker-based screening and treatment strategy that is focused on optimizing brain development will likely improve outcome in perinatal iron deficiency.

(1) Background: Vitamin K deficiency is a common feature of chronic kidney disease (CKD), leading to impaired bone quality and increased risk of vascular calcifications. A method to indirectly measure Vitamin K status is measuring the blood level of Vitamin K dependent proteins (VKDP)- osteocalcin (OC) and matrix GLA protein (MGP). The aim of this study is to correlate the level of OC and MGP with markers of CKD mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD). (2) Methods: We conducted a single-center cross-sectional study that included 45 CKD G5D patients and measured blood biochemistry, complete blood count and intact osteocalcin and matrix GLA protein. (3) Results: We found a strong statistically significant correlation of OC with the markers of CKD-MBD such as: iPTH , serum calcium and serum phosphorus and a strong indirect statistically significant correlation with abdominal circumference. There was also a statistically significant correlation of MGP with markers of inflammation (CRP). Higher levels of MGP were found in patients treated with vitamin K antagonists, non-calcium based phosphate binders and vitamin D receptor activator- paricalcitol. (4) Conclusions: In our study, we found that vitamin K deficiency, measured indirectly using the level of VKDP is associated to CKD-MBD. The use of medication such as phosphate binders, that reduce vitamin K absorbtion, Vitamin D that increases Vitamin K requirements and also vitamin K antagonists, seem to have an influence on the blood level of VKDPs.

Introduction Color vision deficiency (CVD) constitutes one of the frequently observed eye disorders in all human populations. Color is a prominent sign utilized in the medical profession to study and identify histopathological specimens, lab instruments, and patient examination. Color deficiency affects the medical skills of students resulting in poor clinical examination and color appreciation. There is no effective screening of CVD at any level of the medical profession. Hence, this study was aimed to determine the prevalence of CVD among medical students. Materials and methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted from September 2019 to February 2020 over a period of six months in Karachi, Pakistan. All medical students aged 18-21 years of either gender enrolled in the first and second years of medical college were included in this study. The examination was performed during daylight. Ishihara plates were placed at a distance of 75 cm from the subject and tilted so that the plane of the paper lies perpendicular to the line of vision. Students were given five seconds to read the plate and one examiner was instructed to mark the checklist. A score of less than 12 out of 14 red/green test plates (not including the demonstration plate) was considered as a CVD. All statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.0 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). Results The mean age of the medical students was 19.61± 1.22 years. There were (n=123) 53.0% females and (n=111) 47.0% males. Most of the medical students (n=131, 56.0%) belonged to the upper-middle-class socioeconomic group. CVD was observed in (n=13) 6.0%of medical students. Age (p=0.001) and socioeconomic status (p=0.001) were the only demographic factors significantly associated with color deficiency. Conclusions Color deficiency, although an unnoticed concern, is fairly common among medical students. Medical students must be screened for CVD as this will enable them to be aware of their limitations in their future observational skills as a doctor and devise ways of overcoming them in clinical practice.

The immunomodulatory behaviour of the CCR6/CCL20 axis in multi -system pathophysiology and molecular signalling was investigated at two clinically significant time points, using a Ccr6 - deficient mouse model of spontaneous colitis. Four groups of mice, (C57BL/6J, Ccr6^-/- of C57BL/6J, Winnie x Ccr6 ^-/- and Winnie) were utilized and (I) colonic clinical parameters (2) histology of colon, spleen, kidney and liver (3) T and B lymphocyte distribution in the spleen and MLN by flowcytometry (5) colonic CCL20, phosphorylated PI3K and phosphorylated Akt expression by immunohistochemistry and (6) colonic cytokine expression by RT-PCR were evaluated. CCR6 deficiency was shown to attenuate inflammation in the spleen, liver and gut while renal histology remained unaffected. Marked focal lobular inflammation with reactive nuclear features were observed in hepatocytes and a significant neutrophil infiltration in red pulp with extra medullary hemopoiesis in the spleen existed in Winnie. These changes were considerably reduced in Winnie x Ccr6^-/- with elevated goblet cell numbers and mucus production in the colonic epithelium. Results indicate that Ccr6- deficiency in the colitis model contributes towards resolution of disease. Our findings demonstrate an intricate networking role for CCR6 in immune activation, which is downregulated by Ccr6 deficiency, and could provide newer clinical therapies in colitis.

Luminescence-based sensors for measuring oxygen concentration are widely used both in industry and research due to the practical advantages and sensitivity of this type of sensing. The measuring principle is the luminescence quenching by oxygen molecules, which results in a change of the luminescence decay time and intensity. In the standard approach, this change is related to an oxygen concentration using the Stern–Volmer equation. This equation, which in most of the cases is non-linear, is parametrized through device-specific constants. Therefore, to determine these parameters every sensor needs to be precisely calibrated at one or more known concentrations. This work explores an entirely new artificial intelligence approach and demonstrates the feasibility of oxygen sensing through machine learning. The specifically developed neural network learns very efficiently to relate the input quantities to the oxygen concentration. The results show a mean deviation of the predicted from the measured concentration of 0.5 % air, comparable to many commercial and low-cost sensors. Since the network was trained using synthetically generated data, the accuracy of the model predictions is limited by the ability of the generated data to describe the measured data, opening up future possibilities for significant improvement by using a large number of experimental measurements for training. The approach described in this work demonstrates the applicability of artificial intelligence to sensing technology and paves the road for the next generation of sensors.

Glucose is the primary energy fuel used by the brain and is transported across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) by the glucose transporter type 1 and 2.[1] A GLUT1 genetic defect is responsible for glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS). Patients with GLUT1DS may present with pharmaco-resistant epilepsy, developmental delay, microcephaly, and/or abnormal movements, with tremendous phenotypic variability. Diagnosis is made by the presence of specific clinical features, hypoglycorrhachia and an SLC2A1 gene mutation. Treatment with a ketogenic diet therapy (KDT) is the standard of care as it results in production of ketone bodies which can readily cross the BBB and provide an alternate energy source to the brain in the absence of glucose. KDTs have been shown to reduce seizures and abnormal movements in children diagnosed with GLUT1DS. However, little is known about the impact of KDT on cognitive function, seizures and movement disorders in adults newly diagnosed with GLUT1DS and started on a KDT in adulthood, or the appropriate ketogenic diet therapy to administer. This case report demonstrates the potential benefits of using a modified Atkins diet (MAD), a less restrictive ketogenic diet therapy on cognition, seizure control and motor function in an adult with newly-diagnosed GLUT1SD.

Background: Micronutrients has roles in strengthening and maintaining immune function, but its supplementation and/or deficiency effects on respiratory tract infections are inconclusive. This review aims to systematically assess the associations between micronutrient supplementation or deficiency, with novel coronavirus incidence and disease severity. Methods: Systematic literature searches conducted in 5 electronic databases identified 751 unique studies, of which 33 studies (5 supplementation studies, 1 supplementation and deficiency study, and 27 deficiency studies) were eventually included in this review. Proportions of incidence and severity outcomes in each group, and adjusted summary statistics with their relevant 95% confidence intervaIs (CI) were extracted. Data from 19 studies were pooled in meta-analysis using the generic inverse variance method. Findings: A total of 360,346 patients across 16 countries, with a mean age between 32 and 87.7 years, were involved across 33 studies. All studies were on COVID-19 infections. In individuals without micronutrient deficiency, there was a significant reduction on odds of COVID-19 incidence (pooled OR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.78), and ICU admissions or severe/critical disease onset (pooled OR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.89). Insignificant protective effects were observed on other outcome measures – mortality, ICU admission, progression to respiratory-related complications, severe/critical disease onset or requiring respiratory support and hospitalization rate. Conclusion: The absence of micronutrient deficiency significantly reduced COVID-19 incidence and clinical deterioration in hospitalized patients. Usage of micronutrients as prophylaxis and complementary supplement in therapeutic management of COVID-19 patients may be a promising and cost-effective approach warranting in-depth investigation.

Legumes are important sources of nitrogen and, therefore, the nitrogen fixing ability of the legume-rhizobia symbiosis has great potential to improve crop yields or reduce nitrogen fertilizer use. Unfortunately, legumes face serious and increasing threats of both biotic and abiotic stresses among which Fe-deficiency has been increased from past years. Fe nutrient deficiency limits pulse production and nitrogen fixation by specifically affecting any one of the four phases of legume-rhizobium symbiosis. Although Fe in soil is often present in adequate quantities, it is mainly present in insoluble Fe-(III) precipitates, limiting its uptake and utilization. The present review has focused on the iron nutrition and deficiency and probable uptake, transport and metabolism in legumes.

Keywords: iron deficiency anemia; IDA; anemia; knowledge; awareness.

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that must be obtained through the diet in adequate amounts to prevent hypovitaminosis C and the potentially fatal deficiency disease scurvy. Global vitamin C status and prevalence of deficiency has not previously been reported, despite vitamin C’s pleiotropic roles in both non-communicable and communicable disease. This review highlights the global literature on vitamin C status and the prevalence of hypovitaminosis C and deficiency. Related dietary intake is reported if assessed in the studies. We also explore if global vitamin C status has changed over time. Overall, the review illustrates the shortage of high quality epidemiological studies of vitamin C status in many countries, particularly low- and middle-income countries. The available evidence indicates that vitamin C deficiency is common in low- and middle-income countries and not uncommon in high income settings. Further high quality studies are required to confirm these findings, including in the countries not yet represented, and to fully understand associations with a range of disease processes. Our findings suggest a need for interventions to prevent deficiency in a range of at risk groups and regions of the world.

Oxygen extraction fraction (OEF), the fraction of oxygen that tissue extracts from blood, is an es-sential biomarker for directly assessing tissue viability and function in neurologic disorders. For quantitative mapping of OEF, an integrative model of quantitative susceptibility mapping and quantitative blood oxygen level-dependent magnitude (QSM+qBOLD or QQ) was recently pro-posed. However, QQ assumes Gaussian noise in both susceptibility and multi-echo gradient echo (mGRE) magnitude signals for OEF estimation. This assumption is unreliable in low sig-nal-to-noise ratio (SNR) regions like disease-related lesions, risking inaccurate OEF estimation and potentially impacting clinical decisions. Addressing this, our study presents a novel multi-echo complex QQ (mcQQ) that models realistic noise in mGRE complex signals. The proposed mcQQ was implemented using a deep learning framework (mcQQ-NET) and compared with the existing deep learning-based QQ (QQ-NET) in simulations, ischemic stroke patients, and healthy subjects. Both mcQQ-NET and QQ-NET used identical training and testing datasets and schemes for a fair comparison. In simulations, mcQQ-NET provided more accurate OEF than QQ-NET. In the sub-acute stroke patients, mcQQ-NET showed a lower average OEF ratio in lesions relative to unaf-fected contralateral normal tissue than QQ-NET. In the healthy subjects, mcQQ-NET provided uniform OEF maps, similar to QQ-NET, but without unrealistically high OEF outliers in areas of low SNR. Therefore, mcQQ-NET improves OEF accuracy by better reflecting realistic data noise characteristics.

This brief commentary challenges the use of the term "energy deficiency" in nutrition and metabolism, providing a critical examination of its scientific and philosophical aspects. It emphasizes the need to consider rare diseases associated with actual energy deficiency, which extend beyond the scope of everyday tiredness or fatigue. By analyzing energy balance and its complexities, this critique underscores the oversimplification associated with the term and its potential for misleading implications. It highlights the dynamic nature of energy metabolism and the intricate mechanisms involved in maintaining energy equilibrium, including the impact of rare genetic and physiological abnormalities. In addition to the discussion on energy balance, this commentary explores the manifestation of rare diseases that disrupt energy production, utilization, or hormonal regulation. Conditions such as mitochondrial diseases, glycogen storage diseases, adrenal insufficiency, and Prader-Willi syndrome are examined, shedding light on their profound impact on individuals' energy levels and overall health. The distinct time courses, underlying mechanisms, and clinical implications of protein deficiency, energy deficiency, and vitamin C deficiency are also compared, further emphasizing the complexity of energy metabolism and its relationship with various nutrient deficiencies. To foster a more comprehensive understanding of energy metabolism and enhance clarity in communication within the field, the commentary proposes the adoption of alternative terminology, such as "energy flux," to capture the multifaceted nature of energy balance more accurately. By reevaluating the terminology employed, researchers and healthcare professionals can better convey the intricate dynamics of energy metabolism and address the unique challenges faced by individuals with rare diseases causing actual energy deficiency. In conclusion, this commentary serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of energy deficiency in nutrition and metabolism. It highlights the limitations of the term in capturing the complexities of energy balance, particularly in the context of rare diseases. By broadening the discussion to include these rare conditions, it encourages a more comprehensive understanding of energy metabolism and calls for precise and nuanced terminology to facilitate effective communication and advancements in the field.

A recent review of global vitamin C status indicated a high prevalence of deficiency, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, as well as in specific subgroups within high-income countries. Here we provide a narrative of potential factors influencing vitamin C status. The in vivo status of vitamin C is primarily affected by dietary intake and supplement use. Dietary intake can be influenced by cultural aspects such as staple foods and traditional cooking practices. Environmental factors can also affect vitamin C intake and status; these include geographic region, season and climate, as well as pollution. Demographic factors such as sex, age, and race are known to affect vitamin C status, as do socioeconomic factors such as deprivation, education and social class, and institutionalization. Various health aspects affect vitamin C status; these include body weight, pregnancy and lactation, genetic variants, smoking, and disease states, including severe infections as well as various non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Some of these factors have changed over time, therefore we also explore if vitamin C status has shown temporal changes. Overall, there are numerous factors that can affect vitamin C status to different extents in various regions of the world. Many of these factors are not taken into consideration during the setting of global recommended dietary intakes for vitamin C.

Background: Carnitine deficiency is common in patients on dialysis. Serum free carnitine concentration is significantly lower in patients on hemodialysis (HD) than in healthy individuals. However, there are few reports on serum free carnitine concentration in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods: We examined serum concentrations of total, free, and acylcarnitine and the acylcarnitine/free carnitine ratio in 34 PD and 34 age-, sex-, and dialysis duration-matched HD patients. We investigated the prevalence of carnitine deficiency and clinical factors associated with carnitine deficiency in the PD group. Results: Prevalence of carnitine deficiency was 8.8% in the PD group and 14.7% in the HD group (P = 0.45). High risk of carnitine deficiency was found in 79.4% of the PD group and 85.3% of the HD group (P = 0.52). Carnitine insufficiency was found in 82.3% of the PD group and 88.2% of HD group (P = 0.49). Multivariate analysis revealed that duration of dialysis and age were independent predictors of serum free carnitine level in the PD group. Conclusions: The prevalence of carnitine deficiency, high risk of carnitine deficiency, and carnitine insufficiency in PD patients was 8.8%, 79.4%, and 82.3%, respectively. These rates were comparable to those in patients on HD.

Fatty acids and glucose are the main bioenergetic substrates in mammals that are alternatively used during the transition between fasting and feeding. Impairment of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation causes mitochondrial myopathy leading to decreased physical performance. Here, we report that haploinsufficiency of ADCK2, a member of the aarF domain-containing mitochondrial protein kinase family, in human is associated with liver dysfunction and severe mitochondrial myopathy with lipid droplets in skeletal muscle. In order to better understand the etiology of this rare disorder, we generated a heterozygous Adck2 knockout mouse model to perform in vivo and cellular studies using integrated analysis of physiological and omics data (transcriptomics-metabolomics). The data show that Aldh2+/- mice exhibits impaired fatty acid oxidation, liver dysfunction, and mitochondrial myopathy in skeletal muscle resulting in lower physical performance. Significant decrease in CoQ biosynthesis was observed and supplementation with CoQ partially rescued the phenotype both in the human subject and mouse model. These results indicate that ADCK2 is involved in organismal fatty acid metabolism and in CoQ biosynthesis in skeletal muscle. We propose that patients with isolated myopathies and myopathies involving lipid accumulation be tested for possible ADCK2 defect as they are likely to be responsive to CoQ supplementation.

membrane separation technology shows promise, particularly gas separation membranes, including ceramic membrane. Ceramic membranes are increasingly gaining attention for their acid and alkali stability, corrosion resistance, high-temperature tolerance, and mechanical strength. This study focuses on alumina support ceramic membrane for CO2 capture. The membranes were characterized using contact angle measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The contact angle measurements confirmed the hydrophilic, while SEM analysis showed even particle distribution in the alumina ceramic membranes respectively. EDAX analysis revealed the elemental composition in the alumina support matrix. FTIR analysis demonstrated chemical interactions of the support membrane. Single gas permeation experiments were conducted. It can be observed that Nitrogen gas permeated faster with increase in feed pressure through the unmodified ceramic inorganic hydrophobic membrane more than the other two single gases, O2, and CO2). As a result, only high permeance separation membranes with realistic size and pressure conditions may be considered of as a practical alternative for CO2 capture. However, the presence of non-selective defects limited the improvement in selectivity of hydrophilic ceramic membrane. In this case, there is need to modify the ceramic membrane used to increase the flux, permeance of CO2, and selectivity of CO2.

Abstract: membrane separation technology shows promise, particularly gas separation membranes, including ceramic membrane. Ceramic membranes are increasingly gaining attention for their acid and alkali stability, corrosion resistance, high-temperature tolerance, and mechanical strength. This study focuses on alumina support ceramic membrane for CO2 capture. The membranes were characterized using contact angle measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The contact angle measurements confirmed the hydrophilic, while SEM analysis showed even particle distribution in the alumina ceramic membranes respectively. EDAX analysis revealed the elemental composition in the alumina support matrix. FTIR analysis demonstrated chemical interactions of the support membrane. Single gas permeation experiments were conducted. It can be observed that Nitrogen gas permeated faster with increase in feed pressure through the unmodified ceramic inorganic membrane more than the other two single gases, O2, and CO2). As a result, only high permeance separation membranes with realistic size and pressure conditions may be considered of as a practical alternative for CO2 capture. However, the presence of non-selective defects limited the improvement in selectivity of hydrophilic ceramic membrane. In this case, there is need to modify the ceramic membrane used to increase the flux, permeance of CO2, and selectivity of CO2.

The Drosophila spermatogenesis has the renewal of germline stem cells, meiosis of spermatocytes, and morphological transformation of spermatids into mature sperm. We previously demonstrated that Ocnus (ocn) plays an essential role in spermatogenesis. ValRS-m (Valyl-tRNA synthetase, mito-chondrial) gene was downregulated in ocn RNAi testes. By hatchability testing, we found that ValRS-m-knockdown induced complete sterility of male flies. We also concluded that ValRS-m-knockdown inhibited the transition from spermatogonia to spermatocytes and caused accumulated spermatogonia in testes. To understand the intrinsic reason for this destruction, we further conducted transcriptome sequencing analysis in ValRS-m RNAi testes. A total of 7710 dif-ferentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified to have at least a 2-fold change with a p-value of

Background: Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin with important cellular functions and is an essential vitamin. The aim of this study is to determine the B12 levels of children in the period from the 6th month when they start taking additional foods to the age of 7 and the risk factors affecting them. Methods: One hundred pediatric patients aged 6-72 months who were diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency and their parents who agreed to participate in Istanbul Atlas University, Medical Faculty, “Medicine Hospital” Pediatric Clinic between September 2022 and June 2023 were prospectively included in this study. Results: B12 deficiency was significantly higher in the 6-11 (25%) month group than those in the 12-23 (5.8%) and 24-47 (2.8%) month groups. Homocysteine levels were highest in those with insufficient B12 levels compared to the other groups. There was no statistically significant difference in weekly dairy and meat consumption levels between age groups. B12 levels were lower in the 6-11-month group than in the other groups. Homocysteine levels were highest in those with insufficient B12 levels [<200 pg/mL (148 pmol/L)]. Folic acid levels were lower in the 24-47 month and 48-72 month groups than in the 6-11 month and 12-23 month groups. Conclusions: The results obtained in this study showed that low vitamin B12 and increased homocysteine levels seem to be important risk factors in children, especially from the 6th month when they start taking additional foods. The diagnosis of B12 deficiency can be confirmed by elevated serum total homocysteine levels, which are evidence of functional cobalamin deficiency.

Background: Sleep deficiency can adversely affect the performance of resident physicians resulting in greater medical errors. However, the impact of sleep deficiency on surgical outcomes, particularly among attending surgeons is less clear. Methods: Sixty attending surgeons from academic and community departments of surgery or obstetrics and gynecology were studied prospectively using direct observation and self-report to explore the effect of sleep deprivation on patient safety, operating room communication, medical errors, and adverse events while operating under two conditions, Post-Call (defined as >2 hours of nighttime clinical duties) and Non-Post-Call. Results: Each surgeon contributed up to five surgical procedures post-call and non-post-call yielding 362 cases total (150 Post-Call and 210 Non-Post-Call). Most common were caesarian section and herniorrhaphy. Hours of sleep on the night before the operative procedure were significantly less Post-Call (4.98 ± 1.41) vs. Non-Post-Call (6.68 ± 0.88, p<0.01). Errors were infrequent and not related to hours of sleep or post-call status. However, Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) ratings demonstrated poorer performance while Post-Call for Situational Awareness, Decision Making and Communication/Teamwork. Fewer hours of sleep also was related to lower ratings for Situational Awareness and Decision Making. Decreased self-reported alertness was observed to be associated with increased procedure time. Conclusions: Sleep deficiency in attending surgeons was not associated with greater errors during procedures performed during the next day. However, procedure time was increased suggesting that surgeons were able to compensate for sleep loss by working more slowly. Ratings on non-technical surgical skills were adversely affected by sleep deficiency.

SARS-CoV-2 infections underlie the current Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and are causative for a high death toll particularly among elderly subjects and those with comorbidities. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element of high importance for human health and particularly for a well-balanced immune response. Mortality risk from severe disease like sepsis or polytrauma is inversely related to Se status. We hypothesized that this relation also applies to COVID-19. Serum samples (n=166) from COVID-19 patients (n=33) were collected consecutively and analysed for total Se by X-ray fluorescence and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) by a validated ELISA. Both biomarkers showed the expected strong correlation (r=0.7758, p<0.001), pointing to an insufficient Se status for optimal selenoprotein expression. In comparison to reference data from a European cross sectional analysis (EPIC, n=1915), the patients showed a pronounced deficit in total serum Se (mean±SD, 50.8±15.7 vs. 84.4±23.4 µg/L) and SELENOP (3.0±1.4 vs. 4.3±1.0 mg/L). A Se status below the 2.5th percentile of the reference population, i.e., [Se] < 45.7 µg/L and [SELENOP] < 2.56 mg/L was present in 43.4% and 39.2% of COVID samples, respectively. The Se status was significantly higher in samples from surviving COVID patients as compared to non-survivors (Se; 53.3±16.2 vs. 40.8±8.1 µg/L, SELENOP; 3.3±1.3 vs. 2.1±0.9 mg/L). We conclude that Se status analysis in COVID patients provides diagnostic information. However, causality remains unknown due to the observational nature of this study. Nevertheless, the findings strengthen the notion on a relevant role of Se for COVID convalescence, and support the discussion on adjuvant Se supplementation in severely diseased and Se-deficient patients.

Iron-based materials are widely applied in Fenton chemistry and they have promising prospects in the processing of wastewater. The composition complexity and rich chemistry of iron and/or oxides, however, hamper the precise understanding on the active sites and the working mechanism which still remain highly controversial. Herein, iron oxides of four different model systems are designed through a conventional precipitation method plus H2 reduction treatment. These systems feature Fe@Fe3O4 with abundant oxygen vacancy, Fe0 and Fe3O4 particles with interface structures, and Fe3O4-dominated nanoparticles of different sizes. These materials are applied in the decomposition of methyl orange as a model reaction to assess the Fenton chemistry. The Fe@Fe3O4 with core-shell structures exhibited significantly higher decomposition activity than the other Fe3O4-rich nanoparticles. A thin Fe3O4 layer formed by auto-oxidation of iron particles when exposing to air can boost the activity as compared with the Fe0 and Fe3O4 particles with interface structures but poor oxygen vacancy. The unique hetero-structure with the co-existence of both metallic iron and oxygen vacancy displayed excellent redox propensity which might account for the superior Fenton activity. This finding provides a new perspective to understand and design highly efficient iron-based Fenton catalysts.

Telomere repeats at the ends of human chromosomes protect chromosomes from degradation, and telomerase has a prominent role in telomere maintenance. Telomerase also affects cell proliferation, DNA replication, differentiation, and tumourigenesis. TERT (telomerase reverse transcriptase enzyme) is the catalytic subunit of telomerase and is critical for enzyme activity. TERT promoter mutations and promoter methylation are strongly associated with increased telomerase activation in cancer cells. Notably, TERT and telomerase are downregulated in stem cells during their differentiation. Therefore, the link between differentiation and telomerase provides a valuable tool for studying the epigenetic regulation of TERT enzyme. Oxygen tension affects several cellular behaviours including proliferation, metabolic activity, stemness, and differentiation. The role of oxygen tension in driving promoter modifications of the TERT gene in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is poorly understood either in vitro or in vivo. We adopted a monolayer ESCs differentiation model to explore the role of low, physiological, oxygen (physoxia) in the epigenetic regulation of telomerase and associated genes, including TERT, DNMTs, and HDACs. Cells were cultured in either air, a 2% O2 incubator, or a 2% O2 oxygen workstation to provide a fully defined 2% O2 environment. Pre-gassed media (pre-conditioned to 2% O2 in a HypoxyCool unit) was used in all 2% O2 experimentation. As anticipated, physoxia culture increased the proliferation rate and stemness of ESCs and a slower onset of differentiation in physoxia was evident. Further, downregulated TERT expression was correlated to reduced telomerase activity during differentiation. TERT expression and telomerase activity remained significantly elevated in physoxia during differentiation. A substantial increase in TERT promoter methylation levels was noted during differentiation. Chemical inhibition of DNMT3B reduced TERT promoter methylation and was associated with increased TERT gene and telomerase activity during differentiation. DNMT3B CHiP demonstrated that downregulated TERT expression and increased proximal promoter methylation were associated with DNMT3B binding to the promoter. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that DNMT3B can directly bind TERT promoter, change its methylation levels, and contribute to regulation of telomerase activity.

The study, conducted at the Department of Medicine, Maulana Azad Medical College and associated Lok Nayak Hospital, aimed to investigate the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia among anaemic overweight and obese individuals. Fifty participants were included after screening and consent, undergoing socio-demographic assessment, clinical evaluation, and laboratory investigations. Middle to old-aged individuals predominated (Mean ± SD: 54.54 ± 11.32 years), with females comprising 62%. All subjects were obese (mean BMI: 37.27 ± 5.71 kg/m²), with common comorbidities including hypertension (68%), diabetes (36%), and obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (32%). Nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, were prevalent, affecting 62% of subjects, with 48% having iron deficiency alone. Anemia of chronic illness was observed in 38%. Laboratory parameters showed low hemoglobin (8.53 ± 1.23 g/dL), MCV (78.75 ± 10.13 fL), and elevated ESR (20.56 ± 21.47 mm/hour) and CRP levels (4.71 ± 3.32 mg/dL), indicating inflammation. Correlation analyses revealed negative associations between BMI and serum iron/ferritin and positive associations with serum hepcidin. The study underscores the significance of addressing nutritional deficiencies and monitoring iron status in obese populations, suggesting potential associations between obesity and iron metabolism. Further research is needed to explore these relationships for clinical management implications.

In the present study, we studied the effect of apolipoprotein A-1 (APOA1) on the spatial and molecular characteristics of bone marrow adipocytes, using well-characterized ApoA1 knockout mice. APOA1 is a central regulator of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) metabolism, and thus HDL; our recent work showed that deficiency of APOA1 increases bone marrow adiposity in mice. We found that ApoA1 deficient mice have greatly elevated adipocytes within their bone marrow compared to wild type counterparts. Morphologically, the increased adipocytes were similar to white adipocytes, and displayed proximal tibial-end localization. Marrow adipocytes from wild type mice were significantly fewer and did not display bone-end distribution pattern. The mRNA levels of the brown/beige adipocyte-specific markers Ucp1, Dio2, Pat2, Pgc1a, and the expression of leptin were greatly reduced in the ApoA1 knock-out in comparison to the wild-type mice. In the knock-out mice adiponectin was remarkably elevated. In keeping with the close ties of hematopoietic stem cells and marrow adipocytes, we found that the elevated adiposity in the ApoA1 knock out mice is associated with a significant reduction of the hematopoietic stem cells and common myeloid, but not common lymphoid, progenitors. Moreover, the “beiging”-related marker osteopontin and the angiogenic factor VEGF were also reduced in the ApoA1 knock-out mice, further supporting the notion that APOA1, and most probably HDL-C, regulate bone marrow microenvironment, favouring beige/brown adipocyte characteristics.

Phosphate (Pi) deficiency reduces nodule formation and development in different legume species including common bean. Despite the significant progress in the understanding of the genetic responses underlying the adaptation of nodules to Pi deficiency, it is still unclear whether this nutritional deficiency interferes with the molecular dialog between legumes and rhizobia, if so, what part of the molecular dialog is impaired? In this study, we provide evidence demonstrating that Pi deficiency negatively affects critical early molecular and physiological responses required for a successful symbiosis between common bean and rhizobia. We demonstrated that the infection thread formation and the expression of PvNSP2, PvNIN, and PvFLOT2, genes controlling the nodulation process, were significantly reduced in Pi-deficient common bean seedlings. Further transcriptional analysis revealed that the expression of hormones-related genes is compromised in Pi-deficient seedlings inoculated with rhizobia. Additionally, we showed that regardless of the presence or absence of rhizobia, the expression of PvRIC1 and PvRIC2, two genes participating in the autoregulation of nodule number, was higher in Pi-deficient seedlings than in control seedlings. The data presented in this study shed light on the understanding of how Pi deficiency impacts the early steps of the symbiosis between common bean and rhizobia.

Growth hormone (GH) deficiency affects up to 1 in 4,000 children and is usually treated with daily injections of GH whilst the child is still growing. With children typically diagnosed around 5 years old, this can mean over 10 years of therapy, which can place a considerable burden on the child and parent. Over three-quarters of children are estimated to be not fully compliant with therapy, which can compromise their chances of attaining their target height. In recent years, interactive mobile health (smart phone or tablet) interventions using game-like concepts, so called ‘gamification’, have increased in popularity and have demonstrated success in promoting positive self-management behaviour in children with chronic conditions, such as diabetes. The application of gamified interventions has the potential to support adherence to therapy and positive behaviour in children with GH deficiency in a number of ways: 1) By providing education in a format that the child understands and accepts (e.g. using behavioural constructs to facilitate explaining why adherence is important); 2) By providing a mechanism to reduce the anxiety and stress associated with administering the injection (e.g. diversion with a virtual pet); and 3) By providing feedback to encourage on-going engagement (e.g. rewards, progression through levels).

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has garnered significant attention in the fields of cancer treatment and drug-resistant bacteria eradication due to its non-invasive nature and spatiotemporal controllability. Iridium complexes have captivated researchers owing to their tunable structure, exceptional optical properties, and substantial Stokes displacement. However, most of these complexes suffer from aggregation-induced quenching, leading to diminished luminous efficiency. In contrast to conventional photosensitizers, photosensitizers exhibiting aggregation-induced luminescence (AIE) properties retain the ability to generate a large number of reactive oxygen species when aggregated. To overcome these limitations, we designed and synthesized a novel iridium complex named Ir-TPA in this study. It incorporates quinoline triphenylamine cyclomethylated ligands that confer AIE characteristics for Ir-TPA. We systematically investigated the photophysical properties, AIE behavior, spectral features, and reactive oxygen generation capacity of Ir-TPA. The results demonstrate that Ir-TPA exhibits excellent optical properties with pronounced AIE phenomenon and robust capability for producing singlet oxygen species. This work not only introduces a new class of metal iridium complex photosensitizer with AIE attributes but also holds promise for achieving remarkable photodynamic therapeutic effects in future cellular experiments and biological studies.

The kidney and the heart work together in balancing the body circulation and although their physiology is based on strict inter dependence, their performance fulfills different aims. While the heart can rapidly increase its own oxygen consumption to comply with the wide changes in metabolic demand linked to body function, the kidney physiology is primarily designed to maintain a stable metabolic rate and has limited capacity to cope with any steep increase in renal metabolism. In the kidneys the glomerular population filters a large amount of blood and the tubular system has been programmed to reabsorb 99% of filtrate by reabsorbing sodium together with other filtered substances including all glucose molecules. Glucose reabsorption involves the sodium-glucose cotransporters SGLT2 and SGLT1 on the apical membrane in the proximal tubular section; it also enhances bicarbonate formation so as to preserve the acid-base balance. The complex work of reabsorption in the kidney is the main factor in renal oxygen consumption; analysis of renal glucose transport in disease states is providing better understanding of the renal physiology changes that occur when clinical conditions alter the neurohormonal response leading to an increase in glomerular filtration pressure. In this circumstance glomerular hyperfiltration occurs, imposing a higher metabolic demand on kidney physiology and causing progressive renal impairment. Albumin urination is the warning signal of renal engagement over-exertion and most frequently heralds heart failure development, regardless of disease etiology. The review analyzes the mechanisms linked to renal oxygen consumption, focusing on sodium-glucose management.

Scientific theories on the functioning and dysfunction of the human brain require a good understanding of both its development — before and after birth, and through maturation to adulthood — and its evolution from the ancestral primate brain. Adopting a complex-systems approach, here we propose that the apparent uniqueness of humans’ cognitive capacities might best be understood as emerging from multiple nested “virtuous cycles.” In particular, we propose that the intimate link that exists between oxygen metabolic loops, cortical expansion, and ultimately cognitive and social demands is a key driver of genetic developmental programs for the human brain. Overall, our proposed evolutionary model makes explicit mechanistic links between metabolism, molecular and cellular brain heterogeneity, and behaviour that may in time provide a clearer understanding of brain developmental trajectories and their disorders.

Dietary inclusion of trace minerals (TM), such as copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) is of importance to cover the ever-evolving requirements for growth, production, and reproduction in ruminants. Various sources of TM are commercially available, such as inorganic (ITM), organic (OTM) or hydroxy (HTM) forms, however their bioavailability and efficiency to improve ruminant zootechnical parameters may be highly influenced by ruminal solubility and effects on the rumen environment. The objective of this review was to compile the most up-to-date information on the ruminal solubility of ITM, OTM and HTM, and their effects on fermentation parameters and rumen microbiota, aiming to support specialists from the animal feed industry when choosing TM products for ruminant supplementation. Some commonly used ITM sources, like sulfates, have a high ruminal solubility, while oxides are less soluble. The ruminal solubility of OTM is mostly found to be high, however data on these TM forms are still lacking. Regarding HTM, ruminal solubility is reported to be low, nevertheless results are inconsistent. Considering rumen fermentation, ITM show a negative effect, OTM might improve, while HTM do not affect parameters like dry matter degradability, volatile fatty acid production, pH, or microbial protein synthesis. As to rumen microbiota, ITM do not affect microbial populations; OTM could decrease abundance of some specific bacteria, like fibrolytic microorganisms, while studies with HTM are missing or inconclusive. Further research is necessary to better understand the ruminal solubility kinetics of TM sources and the different interactions with fermentation parameters and rumen microbiota to successfully apply precision TM supplementation of ruminants, tackling deficiency occurrences.

The tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 1 (TRAF1) plays a key role in promoting lymphocyte survival, proliferation, and cytokine production. Recent evidence showed that TRAF1 plays opposing roles in monocytes and macrophages where it controls NF-B activation and limits pro-inflammatory cytokine production as well as inflammasome-dependent IL-1 secretion. Importantly, TRAF1 polymorphisms have been strongly linked to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, whether and how TRAF1 contributes to RA pathogenesis is not fully understood. Moreover, investigating the role of TRAF1 in driving RA pathogenesis is complicated by its multifaceted and opposing roles in various immune cells. In this study, we show that intraarticular injection of TRAF1 deficient macrophages into knee joints of wildtype (WT) mice subjected to the collagen antibody induced arthritis (CAIA) model of RA significantly exacerbated joint inflammation, immune cell infiltration and tissue damage compared to mice injected with WT macrophages. This study may lay the groundwork for novel therapies for RA that target TRAF1 in macrophages.

Atherogenic lipoproteins may impair vascular reactivity, leading to tissue damage in various organs, including the eye. This study aimed to investigate whether ophthalmic artery reactivity is affected in mice lacking the apolipoprotein E gene (ApoE-/-), a model for hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Twelve-month-old male ApoE-/- mice and age-matched wild-type controls were used to assess vascular reactivity using videomicroscopy. Moreover, vascular mechanics, lipid content, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), expression of pro-oxidant redox enzymes and of the lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) were determined in vascular tissue. Unlike the aorta, the ophthalmic artery of ApoE-/- mice developed no signs of endothelial dysfunction and no signs of excessive lipid deposition. Remarkably, levels of ROS, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 (NOX1), NOX2, NOX4, and of LOX-1 were increased in the aorta but not in the ophthalmic artery of ApoE-/- mice. Our findings suggest that ApoE-/- mice develop endothelial dysfunction in the aorta by increased oxidative stress via involvement of LOX-1, NOX1 and NOX2, whereas NOX4 may participate in media remodeling. In contrast, the ophthalmic artery appears to be resistant to chronic apolipoprotein E deficiency. Lack of LOX-1 expression/overexpression in response to increased ox-LDL levels may be a possible mechanism of action.

Several tumor types have been efficiently treated with PARPis, which are now approved for the treatment of ovarian, breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancer. The BRCA1/2 genes and mutations in many additional genes involved in the HR pathway may be responsible for the HRD phenomenon. In the present study, an NGS assay was used to analyze 513 genes associated with targeted and immuno-oncology therapies in 406 samples. In addition, the %gLOH values of 24 samples were also calculated using the Affymetrix technology to compare the results obtained by the two methodologies. HR variations occurred in 20.93% of the malignancies, while BRCA1/2 gene alterations in 5.17%. %LOH was highly correlated with alterations in the BRCA1/2 genes since 76.19% (16/21) of the BRCA1/2 positive tumors had a high %LOH value (p=0.007). Moreover, the LOH status was highly correlated with the TP53 and KRAS statuses, but there was no association with the TMB value. Lin's Concordance Correlation Coefficient for the 24 evaluable samples simultaneously examined by both assays was 0.87, indicating a nearly perfect agreement. In conclusion, the addition of gLOH analysis could assist the detection of additional patients eligible for PARPis

Background: Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) deficiency is a genetic condition. Affected individuals typically develop symptoms before age 10 with severe hypertriglyceridemia. No pharmacological treatment has lowered triglyceride levels in LPL deficiency patients successfully. The purpose of this study is to report on clinical outcomes of patients with LPL deficiency who responded to dietary therapy with successful reduction of their triglyceride (TG) levels with a long-chain triglyceride (LCT)-restricted, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT)-supplemented diet. Methods: A single-center retrospective case review study of LPL deficiency patients who met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated at the Hospital of Sick Children between January 2000 to December 2022. Data collected include demographic and clinical data, biochemical profiles at diagnosis and after dietary treatment initiation, and molecular results. Results: The study included seven patients with a suspected diagnosis of LPL deficiency (hypertriglyceridemia > 20 mmol/L). Six patients had a confirmed molecular diagnosis of LPL deficiency, and one had a Glycogen storage disease 1a (GSD1a) diagnosis. After presenting with hypertriglyceridemia, an LCT-restricted and MCT-supplemented diet was initiated, resulting in immediate and sustained TG reduction in all LPL deficiency patients that adhered to the diet. Additionally, they all maintained excellent growth and development. LPL deficiency-related complications were not observed under the MCT-enriched diet, except for increased pancreatic enzymes in one patient after dietary error. As expected, the diet failed to treat hypertriglyceridemia in the GSD1 patient. Conclusions: The dietary restriction of LCT in combination with MCT supplementation was feasible and effective in the long-term management of patients with LPL deficiency. In our experience, this treatment eliminated LPL-related complications and led to good clinical outcomes.

Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency disorder (CDD) is a rare neurodevelopmental disease caused by mutations in the X-linked CDKL5 gene. CDD is characterized by a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, including early-onset refractory epileptic seizures, intellectual disability, hypotonia, visual disturbances, and autism-like features. The Cdkl5 knockout (KO) mouse recapitulates several features of CDD, including autistic-like behavior, impaired learning and memory, and motor stereotypies. These behavioral alterations are accompanied by diminished neuronal maturation and survival, reduced dendritic branching and spine maturation, and marked microglia activation. There is currently no cure or effective treatment to ameliorate the symptoms of the disease. Aerobic exercise is known to exert multiple beneficial effects in the brain, not only by increasing neurogenesis, but also by improving motor and cognitive tasks. To date, no studies have analyzed the effect of physical exercise on the phenotype of a CDD mouse model. In view of the positive effects of voluntary running on the brain of mouse models of various human neurodevelopmental disorders, we sought to determine whether voluntary daily running, sustained over a month, could improve brain development and behavioral defects in Cdkl5 KO mice. Our study showed that long-term voluntary running improved hyperlocomotion and impulsivity behaviors, and memory performance of Cdkl5 KO mice. This is correlated with increased hippocampal neurogenesis, neuronal survival, spine maturation, and inhibition of microglia activation. These behavioral and structural improvements were associated with increased BDNF levels. Given the positive effects of BDNF on brain development and function, the present findings support the positive benefits of exercise as an adjuvant therapy for CDD.

The ATP synthase is a mitochondrial complex embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The enzyme is under the double genetic control of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA (nDNA). Fatal human diseases have been associated with defects in ATP synthase (Complex V) activity linked to mtDNA or nDNA pathogenetic variants in genes encoding structural subunits or assembly factors. Mitochondrial post-translational modifications of key amino acids, reduced/increased subunit expression, or protein to protein ATP synthase interaction, are also some of the mechanisms involved in the age-related disease pathway. All the major neurodegenerative diseases: Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and motor neuron diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis highlight an impaired ATP generation in a mechanism involving the permeability transition pore that triggers a cellular homeostasis failure responsible for different forms of regulated cell death. In this review, we will explore ATP synthase assembly and function in physiological and pathological conditions by referring to the recent cryo-EM studies and by exploring human diseases models.

The present study investigates the response of the marine fish cobia, Rachycentron canadum, to stressors as measured by phosphorylation of the α-subunit of the translational initiation factor, eIF2. eIF2α is the target of phosphorylation by a family of kinases that respond to a range of physiological stressors. Phosphorylation of eIF2α not only inhibits overall protein synthesis, but allows cells to reprogram gene expression to adapt to, and recover from, stress. The deduced coding sequence of cobia eIF2α has 94 % identity to both zebrafish (Danio rerio) and human eIF2α sequences with identical phosphorylation and kinase docking sites. The present study uses a cobia cell line, Cm cells, derived from muscle, as well as cobia larvae to investigate the response of cobia eIF2α to various stressors. In Cm cells, phosphorylation of eIF2α is increased by nutrient deficiency, leucinol, and ER stress, consistent with the activation of the eIF2 kinases, GCN2, and PERK. In cobia juveniles, diet and water temperature affect the phosphorylation state of eIF2α. We conclude that evaluation of eIF2α phosphorylation could function as an early marker to evaluate diet, aquaculture stressors and disease in cobia and may be of particular use in the optimization of conditions for raising cobia larvae and juveniles.

INTRODUCTION. The most common cause of eating non-food items (pica) is specific deficiencies of minerals, such as iron. This study aimed to assess the relationship between Pica and Iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women. METHODS. The study was conducted in the out-patient department, antenatal Clinic at East Jeddah Hospital from July to September 2020. Design: A quantitative descriptive correlation design. Sample size: A total of 400 pregnant women, included anemic pregnant women, ≥ 18 years old, with singleton fetus and iron deficiency anemia. RESULTS. The mean age was 32.2 ± 6.6, half of the participants reported food cravings. Ice was the main item in pica followed by clay and chalk. Two-thirds had pica, more than half during the 1st trimester. There is a statistically significant relationship between pica and the history of a family member, parity, and gravidity at (P< 0,001, P <0,001, P <0,005) respectively. Hb and hematocrit in relation to pica reflected a statistically significant relationship (P< 0,001) and (P< 0,001), respectively. The symptoms attributed to iron deficiency were significantly associated with pica (P< 0,006). CONCLUSION. The pica and iron deficiency anemia had a significant association with pregnant women in EJH. RECOMMENDATION. The follow-up visits should integrate the food behavior inquiry to check if the pica existing with anemic or non-anemic pregnant women. Also, increase the awareness among midwives-nurses about the prevalence of pica and iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women.

Introduction: Elevated albuminuria is an important outcome of diabetic complications and metabolic syndrome (MetS), the complex metabolic abnormalities manifested as glucose intolerance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia and enlarged waist circumference. These coexisting cardio-metabolic abnormalities are also associated with oxidative stress and low grade inflammation. Vitamin C (vitC) has long been recognized as hydrophilic antioxidant and blocker of oxidative stress which also has a protective role of MetS and kidney disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the predictive effect of vitC deficiency on kidney disease among patients who developed metabolic syndrome. Method and procedures: To meet this objective, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2008 data were used. NHANES represents the civilian, non-institutionalized US population data implemented for continuous system of monitoring health, nutritional status and well-being in the US. The predictive power of MetS on AU and vitC deficiency (vitC < 0.25 mg/dl) as effect modifier was assessed with binary logistic regression. Age, gender, race and BMI were used as covariates. Results: Among the respondents, 1.9% of the US population had risk of kidney damage, whereas 14.5 % of respondents had MetS. MetS was significantly positively correlated with AU (p < 0.01). Higher elevation of albuminuria creatinine ratio (ACR) was found in participants with VCD. The regression models developed in this study showed that the severity of kidney disease measured by ACR was increased among individuals who developed both VCD and MetS compared with individuals who developed MetS only (AOR=5.53; 95% CI: 2.73, 11.21). Increasing age and being African-American in race were independently associated with elevated AU. Conclusion: Specific considerations tailored to metabolic syndrome, vitamin C and kidney diseases measured by ACR screening and monitoring mechanisms at the community level is critical to tackle further medical complications. Moreover, the role of VitC fortified foods on prevention of kidney diseases among patients with MetS warrant further investigation.

Introduction: Elevated albuminuria is an important outcome of diabetic complications and metabolic syndrome (MetS), the complex metabolic abnormalities manifested as glucose intolerance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia and enlarged waist circumference. These coexisting cardio-metabolic abnormalities are also associated with oxidative stress and low grade inflammation. Vitamin C (vitC) has long been recognized as hydrophilic antioxidant and blocker of oxidative stress which also has a protective role of MetS and kidney disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the predictive effect of vitC deficiency on kidney disease among patients who developed metabolic syndrome. Method and procedures: To meet this objective, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2008 data were used. NHANES represents the civilian, non-institutionalized US population data implemented for continuous system of monitoring health, nutritional status and well-being in the US. The predictive power of MetS on AU and vitC deficiency (vitC < 0.25 mg/dl) as effect modifier was assessed with binary logistic regression. Age, gender, race and BMI were used as covariates. Results: Among the respondents, 1.9% of the US population had risk of kidney damage, whereas 14.5 % of respondents had MetS. MetS was significantly positively correlated with AU (p < 0.01). Higher elevation of albuminuria creatinine ratio (ACR) was found in participants with VCD. The regression models developed in this study showed that the severity of kidney disease measured by ACR was increased among individuals who developed both VCD and MetS compared with individuals who developed MetS only (AOR=5.53; 95% CI: 2.73, 11.21). Increasing age and being African-American in race were independently associated with elevated AU. Conclusion: Specific considerations tailored to metabolic syndrome, vitamin C and kidney diseases measured by ACR screening and monitoring mechanisms at the community level is critical to tackle further medical complications. Moreover, the role of VitC fortified foods on prevention of kidney diseases among patients with MetS warrant further investigation.

Heterocycles are unique precursors for the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals particularly those possessing N- or O- moieties. The development of methods to prepare heterocycles is of great importance in synthesis of organic compounds, especially the heterocycles which can be found in natural products. The synthesis of nitrogen and oxygen containing heterocycles viz. coumarins, dihydropyrimidinones, imidazoles, isoxazoles and benzimidazoles represented an attractive and demanding work for chemists as these nucleus has found extensive applications in several fields such as material science, analytical chemistry and most importantly in medicinal chemistry. Organic synthesis has been attracted towards the development of new environmental friendly procedures to achieve the goals of green chemistry. The fundamental aspects of green chemistry are use of biocatalysts and environmental benign solvents under mild conditions. The present review article summarized the green synthetic methods and biological activities of nitrogen and oxygen containing heterocycles.

We report on the phosphorescence of singlet oxygen photogenerated through a stimulated Raman process. Nanosecond radiation in the green spectral region focused on hexane induces a Raman transition of the dissolved in the solvent oxygen molecules toward the singlet oxygen state producing a Stokes signal in the near infrared. The excited oxygen relaxes to ground emitting an infrared photon at 1269 nm. While the Stokes signal’s wavelength changes with the pumping light’s wavelength, the wavelength of the phosphorescent photon remains unaltered. The result confirms previously reports on stimulated Raman excitation of singlet oxygen.

Addressing global environmental problem, water splitting to produce hydrogen fuel by solar energy is getting so much attention. In the water splitting, the essential problem to solve is the development of efficient　catalysts for oxygen production. In this paper, having the prospect for a practical application of photocatalysts to artificial photosynthesis, molecular mechanisms in the current literature are briefly reviewed. At first, recent progress in the function of Mn cluster at the natural photosystem II is briefly described. The kinds of devices in which oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts are used were designated; water electrolyzers, photoelectrodes, and photocatalysts. Some methods for analyzing molecular mechanism in OER catalysis, emphasized by FTIR method, are shown briefly. After describing common OER mechanisms, the molecular mechanisms are discussed for TiO2 and BiVO4 photoelectrodes with our novel data, followed by presenting of co-catalysts IrO2, RuO2, NiO2, and other metal oxides for OER catalysts. Recent reports describing OER catalysts of perovskites, layered double hydroxides (LDH), metal-organic frameworks (MOF), single atom catalysts, as well as metal complexes are reviewed. Finally, by comparing with natural photosystem, the requiring factors to improve the activity of the catalysts for artificial photosynthesis will be discussed.

Oxygen based heterocyclic moieties hold an ample range of therapeutic activities. Heterocyclic molecules are nominated as vital components of an extensive array of structural motifs with both biological and pharmaceutical significance. The oxygen-based scaffolds act as anticancer candidates and are also present in numerous phytomolecules viz; irinotecan, camptothecin, topotecan, taxol, taxotere, podophylotoxin, etoposide, daunorubicin and teniposide. The architectural design of numerous structural motifs for amelioration of cancer has become progressively amplified in recent past years. Until now presently there is no strategic treatment which is so capable that can cure cancer from its roots. Henceforth, it is very indispensible to design novel anticancer structural motifs with least side effects. The oxygen containing heterocyclic scaffolds includes flavonoids, pyrans, xanthones and coumarins are of utmost importance in medical chemistry for the mitigation of cancer. This assemblage offers several recent developments as anticancer oxygen containing heterocyclic molecules all-round the globe and attracted the structural motifs of auspicious molecules, along with their mechanistic insights, IC50 values, structure–activity relationships, and molecular docking studies. The encouraging properties discovered by these oxygen-based scaffolds unconditionally engaging them at frontline in invention of potential drug candidates. Consequently, these probably will be of amazing attention to scientists working on the design and synthesis of antitumor candidates.

The surface fluorination of polypropylene (PP) was performed using F2 and O2 gas mixtures with different F2 gas proportions at 25 °C and 13.3 kPa for 1 h. The surface roughness of the fluorinated PP samples was approximately 1.5 times higher than that of the untreated sample (5 nm). The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results showed that the PP-derived bonds (-C-C- and -CHx) decreased because they were converted into polar groups (-C–O, -CHF-, and -CFx), which increased the surface electronegativity of PP. The variation in the F2 gas proportion in the gas mixture significantly affected the hydrophilicity and surface composition of PP. At F2 gas proportions of <70%, the hydrophilicity of the fluorinated PP samples improved. Notably, the hydrophilic and negatively charged PP surface enhanced the dyeing of the polymer with basic methylene blue (MB). In contrast, at F2 gas proportions of >90%, the PP surface became hydrophobic owing to increased hydrophobic -CF3 bonds. Thus, enhanced PP dyeing can be controlled based on the composition of the F2 and O2 gas mixture.

Worldwide, oral lesions and cancers are still being significant public health conditions. Thus, an introduction of new oral healthcare protocols is becoming essential. Oral diseases are related to many causative factors, manly dental plaque/biofilm due to poor hygiene. New anti-biofilm therapies are needed to develop. The strategies of anti-biofilm therapies should help to control biofilm formation and microbial attachment to dental surfaces. The present review aimed to provide a comprehensive over-view on evidence related to the potential utility of topical oxygen therapy (BlueM formula) as novel oral care therapies in clinical practice.

Photoacoustic imaging is attracting a great deal of interest owing to its distinct advantages over other imaging techniques such as fluorescence or magnetic resonance image. Availability of photoacoustic probes for reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) could shed light on a plethora of biological processes mediated by these key intermediates. Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) is a non-toxic and non-mutagenic colorless dye that develops a distinctive blue color upon oxidation. In this work we have investigated the potential of TMB as photoacoustic probe for ROS/RNS. Our results indicate that TMB reacts with hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, singlet oxygen and nitrogen dioxide to produce the blue oxidation product, while ROS such as the superoxide radical anion, sodium peroxide, hydroxyl radical or peroxynitrite yield a colorless oxidation product. TMB does not penetrate Escherichia coli cytoplasm but is capable of detecting singlet oxygen generated in its outer membrane.

Dissolved Oxygen (DO) concentration is a vital parameter that indicates water quality. DO short term forecasting using time series analysis on data collected from an aquaculture pond is presented here. This can provide data support for an early warning system for an improved management of the aquaculture farm. The conventional forecasting approaches are commonly characterized by low accuracy and poor generalization problems. In this article, we present a novel hybrid DO concentration forecasting method with ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) based LSTM (Long short-term memory) neural network (NN). With this method, first, the sensor data integrity is improved through linear interpolation and moving average filtering methods of data preprocessing. Next, the EEMD algorithm is applied to decompose the original sensor data into multiple intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). Finally, the feature selection is used to carefully select IMFs that are strongly correlated with the original sensor data and integrate both into inputs for the NN. The hybrid EEMD-based LSTM forecasting model is then constructed. Performance of this proposed model in training and validation sets was compared with the observed real sensor data. To obtain the exact evaluation accuracy of the forecasted results of the hybrid EEMD-based LSTM forecasting model, three statistical performance indices were adopted: MAE, MSE, and RMSE. Results presented for short term (12-hour period) and long term (1-month period) give a strong indication of suitability of this method for forecasting DO values.

Cellular oxidation is responsive to external and internal stimulation and is generated via signal molecules in defense mechanisms through networks of cell proliferation, differentiation, intracellular detoxification, bacterial infection, and immune reactions. Oxidative stress is not necessarily harmful per se; it depends on the balance between oxidation and antioxidation cascades, which are induced according to stimuli and can maintain oxygen homeostasis. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are generated during influenza virus (IV) infection have critical effects on both the virus and host cells. In this review, we outline the link between viral infection and ROS production, using IV as an example. We introduce the current state of knowledge on the molecular relationship between cellular oxidation mediated by ROS production and various effects of IV infection. We also summarize the potential anti-IV agents that act by targeting oxidative stress.

A heterobifunctional reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive linker for directed drug assembly onto and delivery from a quantum dot (QD) nanoparticle carrier was synthesized and coupled to doxorubicin using EDC/sulfo-NHS coupling. The doxorubicin conjugate was characterized using ¹H NMR and LC-MS and subsequently reacted under conditions of ROS formation (Cu²⁺/H₂O₂) resulting in successful and rapid thioacetal oxidative cleavage which was monitored using ¹H NMR. The deprotected amine linker is amenable to peptide or protein conjugation prior to QD assembly or to direct conjugation to cognate reactive groups on ligands that cap the QD surface.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease induced by many environmental factors. The inhalation of allergens and pollutants promote the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production leading to airway inflammation, hyper-responsiveness and remodeling in allergic asthma. The effects of asthma medications on ROS production are unclear. The present study investigated the anti-ROS effects of current asthma medications including inhaled corticosteroid (ICS; budesonide and fluticasone), leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA; montelukast), long acting β2 agonists (LABAs; salmeterol and formoterol) and a new extra-LABA (indacaterol). The human monocyte cell line THP-1 cells were pre-treated with different concentrations of the asthma medications at different time-points after hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) stimulation. H₂O₂ production was measured with DCFH-DA by flow cytometry. Montelukast, fluticasone and salmeterol suppressed H₂O₂-induced ROS production. Indacaterol enhanced H₂O₂-induced ROS production. Budesonide and formoterol alone had no anti-ROS effects, but the combination of these two drugs significantly suppressed H₂O₂-induced ROS production. Different asthma medications have different anti-ROS effects on monocytes. The combination therapy with LABA and ICS seemed not be the only choice for asthma control. Montelukast may be also a good supplemental treatment for the poorly-controlled asthma because of its powerful anti-ROS effects. Our findings provide a novel therapeutic view in asthma.

The brain's unique characteristics make it exceptionally susceptible to oxidative stress, which arises from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, reactive nitrogen species (RNS) production, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. This review explores the factors contributing to the brain vascular tone vulnerability in the presence of oxidative damage, which can be of clinical interest in critically ill patients or presenting acute brain injuries. The brain's high metabolic rate and inefficient electron transport chain in mitochondria lead to significant ROS generation. Moreover, non-replicating neuronal cells and low repair capacity increase susceptibility to oxidative insult. ROS can influence cerebral vascular tone and permeability, with a potential impact on cerebral autoregulation. Different ROS species, including superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, exhibit vasodilatory or vasoconstrictive effects on cerebral blood vessels. Reactive nitrogen species (RNS), particularly NO and peroxynitrite, also exert vasoactive effects. This review further investigates the neuroprotective effects of antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), vitamin C, vitamin E, and the glutathione redox system. Various studies suggest that these antioxidants could be used as adjunct therapies to protect the cerebral vascular tone during high oxidative stress conditions. Nevertheless, more extensive research is required to comprehensively grasp the relationship between oxidative stress and cerebrovascular tone, as well as to explore the potential benefits of antioxidants as adjunctive therapies in critical illnesses and acute brain injuries.

In the context of post-harvest pest management in agricultural products, the adoption of modified atmospheres presents an eco-friendly alternative to conventional pesticides. This study focuses on nitrogen gas as a potential agent for insect control in stored commodities, utilizing computational simulations to investigate its penetration and distribution within two common storage configurations: chamber-contained pallets and silos. By employing the convection-diffusion equation, the simulations reveal insights into nitrogen distribution dynamics and duration required for oxygen reduction. The results highlight the influence of boundary conditions, commodity porosity, and convection effects on nitrogen dispersion. In chamber scenarios, boundary condition type significantly affects oxygen reduction time, while in silos, convection and diffusion interact to establish a consistent diffusion layer thickness. This research enhances the understanding of modified atmosphere techniques and their potential for sustainable pest management. It provides practitioners with valuable quantitative insights, paving the way for optimized modified atmosphere strategies in real-world agricultural contexts.

An important indicator of human-related pollution in watersheds is dissolved oxygen (DO). The DO is highly dependent on both space and time characteristics of the watershed and is directly linked to eutrophication, which impairs the development of both the aquatic fauna and flora, also negatively impacting the water quality. Aspiring to reach a more accurate and precise forecasting approach to predict levels of DO, the present work proposes new graph-based and transformer-based deep learning models. The models were trained and validated for the Credit River Watershed, and the results were compared with both benchmarking and literature-found approaches. The proposed Graph Neural Network Sample and Aggregate (GNN-SAGE) model was the best-performing approach, reaching coefficient of determination (R2) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) values of 97% and 0.34 ppm, respectively. The findings from the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) indicated that the GNN-SAGE benefited from spatiotemporal information from the surrounding stations, improving the model’s results, and that temperature is a major input attribute for determining future DO levels. The results established that the proposed GNN-SAGE model stands as a state-of-the-art solution for DO forecasting, with potential for real-time water quality applications.

Behavior of supported alloyed and de-alloyed platinum-copper catalysts, which contained 14% - 27% wt. of Pt, was studied in the reactions of methanol electrooxidation (MOR) and oxygen electroreduction (ORR) in 0.1 M HClO4 solutions. Alloyed PtCux/C catalysts were prepared by a multistage sequential deposition of copper and platinum onto a Vulcan XC72 dispersed carbon support. De-alloyed PtCux-y/C catalysts were prepared by PtCux/C materials pretreatment in acid solutions. The effects of the catalysts initial composition and the acid treatment condition on their composition, structure, and catalytic activity in MOR and ORR were studied. Functional characteristics of platinum-copper catalysts were compared with those of commercial Pt/C catalysts when tested, both in an electrochemical cell and in H2/Air membrane-electrode assembly (MEA). It was shown that the acid pretreatment of platinum-copper catalysts practically does not have negative effect on their catalytic activity, but it reduces the amount of copper passing into the solution during the subsequent electrochemical study. The activity of platinum-copper catalysts in the MOR and the current-voltage characteristics of the H2/Air PEMFC MEAs measured in the process of their life tests were much higher than those of the Pt/C catalysts.

Background: The scaffold protein tyrosine kinase substrate 4 (TKS4) undergoes tyrosine phos-phorylation by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway via Src kinase. The TKS4 deficiency in humans is responsible for the manifestation of a genetic disorder known as Frank-Ter Haar syndrome (FTHS). Based on our earlier investigation, the absence of TKS4 triggers migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like phenomena while concurrently suppressing cell proliferation in HCT116 colorectal carcinoma cells. This indicates that TKS4 may play a unique role in the progression of cancer. In this study, we demonstrated that the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and the histone methyltransferase of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) are involved in the migration, invasion, and EMT-like changes in TKS4-deficient cells (KO). EZH2 is responsible for the maintenance of the trimethylated lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3). Methods: We performed the transcriptome sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation, protein and RNA quantitative studies, cell mobility, invasion, and proliferation studies combined with/without EZH2 activity inhibitor 3-deazanoplanocine (DZNep) Results: We detected an elevation of global H3K27me3 levels in the TKS4 KO cells, which could be reduced with treatment with DZNep, an EZH2 inhibitor. Inhibition of EZH2 activity reversed the phenotypic effects of the knockout of TKS4, reducing the migration speed and wound healing capacity of the cells as well as decreasing the invasion capacity, while the decrease in cell prolif-eration became stronger. In addition, inhibition of EZH2 activity also reversed most epithelial and mesenchymal markers. We investigated the wider impact of TKS4 deletion on the gene expression profile of colorectal cancer cells using transcriptome sequencing of wild-type and TKS4 knockout cells, particularly before and after treatment with DZNep. Additionally, we observed changes in the expression of several protein-coding genes and long non-coding RNAs that showed a recovery in expression levels following EZH2 inhibition. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the removal of TKS4 causes a notable disruption in the gene expression pattern, leading to the disruption of several signal transduction pathways. Inhibiting the activity of EZH2 can restore most of these transcriptomics and phenotypic effects.

Transplanted rice cultivation has caused groundwater depletion in several regions globally. Direct-seeded rice under aerobic conditions is a water-saving alternative. However, under aerobic conditions, iron in the soil is oxidized from ferrous to ferric, which is not easily available for rice, resulting in iron deficiency induced chlorosis (IDIC) causing significant reduction in yield. Cultivated rice genotypes have limited variations for IDIC tolerance, while wild Oryza germplasm could be a potential source for IDIC tolerance. In this study, 313 Oryza accessions were evaluated for IDIC tolerance at the tillering stage under aerobic conditions and twenty IDIC tolerant lines were identified. The twenty lines showed no signs of chlorosis and had high levels of iron content and SPAD values, while eight cultivated controls exhibited varying degrees of chlorosis symptoms and low levels of SPAD and iron content. To confirm their tolerance, the selected lines were evaluated again in a subsequent year, and they showed comparable levels of tolerance indicating these lines were efficient in iron uptake and utilization resulted maintained high chlorophyll and leaf area index. These accessions may be useful for developing IDIC-tolerant cultivars for aerobic rice cultivation and future study of molecular basis of IDIC tolerance.

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is highly prevalent in the Cote d’Ivoire, and has severe health and economic consequences. In this paper, we apply a health economic model to quantify the burden of IDA, and the contribution of nation-wide mandatory iron fortification of wheat flour and voluntary iron fortification of condiments to the reduction of this burden. The analysis for the population from six months to 64 years builds on published reviews and publicly available datasets, and is stratified by age-groups and socio-economic strata. Without the impact of these fortification strategies, the annual burden of IDA is estimated at 242,100 disability adjusted life years (DALYs) and 978.1 million USD. Wheat flour and condiment fortification contributed to a reduction of the IDA burden by approximately 5% each. In places with high prevalence of malaria and environmental factors, such as the Côte D’Ivoire, policy makers should combine nutritional intervention with infectious disease prevention and environmental factors. The findings of this study provide additional input for policy makers about the magnitude of the impact and can support the conception of future fortification strategies.

Keywords: Post-Stroke; Hyperbaric oxygen therapy; Sequelae; Feasibility; Out-patient.

Tantalum oxide thin films are deposited by DC reactive magnetron sputtering from a tantalum metallic target and oxygen as reactive gas. The reactive gas pulsing process (RGPP) is implemented to produce TaOx compounds with tunable chemical compositions. The argon mass flow rate is maintained constant whereas that of the oxygen gas is pulsed during the deposition. A constant pulsing period T = 10 s is used and the introduction time of the oxygen gas, namely the tON injection time, is systematically changed from 0 to 100 % of the pulsing period T. As the tON injection time increases, the chemical composition of as-deposited TaOx films is continuously changed from pure metallic tantalum to the over-stoichiometric Ta2O5 material. Analysis of the crystallographic structure by X-ray diffraction shows that the films adopt the body-centered cubic structure (metallic Ta) for the lowest tON injection time values (oxygen stoichiometry x &lt; 1.0) and become amorphous for the longest tON injection times. It is shown that the tON injection time is a key parameter to produce either homogeneous tantalum oxides, or periodic Ta/TaOx multilayers with alternations close to 3 nm. Similarly, optical transmittance spectra of the film/glass substrate system are recorded in the visible region and the electrical conductivity of the films is measured vs. temperature. Both exhibit a gradual evolution from metallic (300K = 8.17105 S m-1 with a null optical transmittance in the visible range) to semi-conducting (300K = 1.97103 S m-1 with a semi-transparent behavior) and finally to dielectric properties (300K &lt; 10-5 S m-1 for interferential films) as a function of the oxygen concentration in the films.

The present protocol described staining protocol for Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in aromatic crop grown under nutrient stress through DAB and NBT histochemical method. Spearmint (Mentha spicata) were grown under manganese and salt toxicity stresses and after 10 and 20 days of the stress treatments, plants showed stunted growth. The morphological characteristics of leaves under stresses were observed. Manganese toxicity and salt stress induced the production of ROS. Accumulation of hydrogen peroxide was characterised as brown spots from the DAB polymerisation which were emerged and clearly observed in leaves from plant grown under 2.5 and 5 mM concentrations of manganese as well as 300 mM concentration of salt. Furthermore, accumulation of superoxide anion was characterised as blue pigments based upon the ability of cells to reduce NBT. Spearmint leaves showed the distribution of the blue pigment which was obviously observed under the 5 mM of manganese and 300 mM of salt. DAB and NBT staining method can be the rapid method to characterise ROS accumulation in plant cell under the abiotic stresses.