Journal Description
Medical Sciences Forum
Medical Sciences Forum
is an open access journal dedicated to publishing findings resulting from academic conferences, workshops and similar events in all areas of medical sciences, for advances in basic, translational and clinical research and related disciplines. The conference organizers and proceedings editors are responsible for managing the peer-review process and selecting papers for conference proceedings.
Latest Articles
Barrio Logan Case Study: Modern Environmental Injustice
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025009 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Barrio Logan is a Mexican American community in San Diego in which industrial companies and residences share a space enclosed by a bay and an interstate. Ever since WWII, the Barrio Logan community has faced environmental injustice. There is a gap in Barrio
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Barrio Logan is a Mexican American community in San Diego in which industrial companies and residences share a space enclosed by a bay and an interstate. Ever since WWII, the Barrio Logan community has faced environmental injustice. There is a gap in Barrio Logan’s ability to self-monitor, so business models were developed to bring forth citizen science projects based on data collected from government environmental studies, the nurse’s office at Barrio Logan’s Perkins K-8 School, and interviews with Perkins K-8 School’s principal and the director and staff at the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center. It was found that children in Barrio Logan are experiencing a health crisis. Homelessness, single-parent households, unemployment, gentrification, low-wage jobs, continuous diesel particulate matter exposure, and high levels of asthma can be found in Barrio Logan. There is a lack of easily accessible, community-wide health programs that address ACEs and a lack of air pollution monitoring.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International One Health Conference)
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Isolation of Multiresistant Bacterial Strains from Dairy Wastewater: A Public Health Concern in a One Health Perspective
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Caterina Elisabetta Rizzo, Paola Tripodi, Isabella La Spina, Maria Eufemia Gioffrè, Antonino Virga, Alessio Facciolà and Pasqualina Laganà
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025008 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The use of antibiotics in the veterinary and zootechnic sectors poses a challenge to the reduction in antibiotic resistance rates. We evaluated the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the wastewater of dairy farms in the Sicily Region, Italy. The samples were examined by
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The use of antibiotics in the veterinary and zootechnic sectors poses a challenge to the reduction in antibiotic resistance rates. We evaluated the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the wastewater of dairy farms in the Sicily Region, Italy. The samples were examined by isolating and identifying the bacterial strains, which were then tested for the main classes of antibiotics. Aeromonas spp. and Vibrio spp. were the more commonly isolated strains (18.2%), followed by Pseudomonas spp. (15.9%), Enterobacter spp. and Citrobacter spp. (13.6%). Macrolides were the drugs against which the highest resistance was detected, followed by tetracyclines, penicillins, and cephalosporins. The agri-food chain and zootechnic areas embody an important source of bacteria resistant to antibiotics, and their presence in wastewater from processing factories could play a pivotal role in spreading these microorganisms and in environmental contamination.
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Climate Crises Associated with Epidemiological, Environmental, and Ecosystem Effects of a Storm: Flooding, Landslides, and Damage to Urban and Rural Areas (Extreme Weather Events of Storm Daniel in Thessaly, Greece)
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Ioannis Adamopoulos, Aikaterini Frantzana and Niki Syrou
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025007 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The effects of climate crises and disasters must be managed appropriately. These effects can have a considerable influence on public health. This issue relates to epidemiological models and policy regarding climate factors, such as temperature, precipitation, humidity, and health results. Historical data were
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The effects of climate crises and disasters must be managed appropriately. These effects can have a considerable influence on public health. This issue relates to epidemiological models and policy regarding climate factors, such as temperature, precipitation, humidity, and health results. Historical data were analyzed so that patterns and connections between climatic factors and health outcomes could be found. Epidemiological models were used to simulate the spread of illnesses. Climate variables were used as inputs to these models to determine their effect on the spread of disease. This study examines the current public health regulations concerning epidemiology, climate change, and establishing new policies or revising existing ones to address the issues found to protect public health. To conclude, immediate efforts are needed to save human lives, protect vulnerable wildlife, and improve public health. Ecological assessments need to be conducted to understand extreme weather events (such as Storm Daniel), monitor ecosystem recovery, and adapt management strategies as needed, as well as to develop disaster preparedness to reduce future risks.
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Developing a Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) Index for Italian Municipalities
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Julia Nawaro, Lorenzo Gianquintieri and Enrico G. Caiani
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025006 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Since the establishment of the SDGs, related progress at a national level has usually been measured using the province as the smallest geographical aggregation. To cope with this gap, we aimed to develop a methodology for SDG3 index calculation for Italian municipalities. Official
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Since the establishment of the SDGs, related progress at a national level has usually been measured using the province as the smallest geographical aggregation. To cope with this gap, we aimed to develop a methodology for SDG3 index calculation for Italian municipalities. Official data for 2018–2022 were collected to cover 11 of 13 SDG3 targets that were mapped to 29 unique indicators: 10 were computed at municipal level, while for the remaining 19 a lower granularity was applied. The SDG3 index, calculated by weighting the targets equally, ranged from 0 to 1, with higher values corresponding to better goal fulfilment. The methodology was applied to the municipalities in the Lombardy region, where the index spanned 0.538 to 0.769. Since SDG indices contribute to the 2030 Agenda goal achievements at country level, more attention should be paid to the geographical details of assessment through policy information and local benchmarking.
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Open AccessConference Report
Preface and Abstracts of the 2nd International One Health Conference
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Margherita Ferrante, Gea Oliveri Conti, Domenico Vito, Gabriela Fernandez, Carol Maione, Paolo Lauriola, Prisco Piscitelli, Melissa Jimenez Gomes Tagle, Carlos Dora, Jordi Serrano Pons, Carole Conforti, Joima Panisello, Paula Sol Ventura, Ilaria Bernotti, Carmen Ruiz Martin, Edgar Buloz, Marcella Trombetta, Giuseppe Banfi and Valentina Tageo
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025005 - 15 Apr 2024
Abstract
The International One Health Conference 2023, scheduled for October in Barcelona, fosters a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to health involving professionals, academics, and decision-makers. Operating in a hybrid format, the conference aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and policies, aligning with the
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The International One Health Conference 2023, scheduled for October in Barcelona, fosters a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to health involving professionals, academics, and decision-makers. Operating in a hybrid format, the conference aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and policies, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Health in All Policies (HiAP). Emphasizing community involvement and the symbiotic relationship between basic needs, sustainable lifestyles, and empowerment, the conference envisions a comprehensive approach to sustainable development. D’Alisa introduces a framework incorporating participative democracy, recognizing the interconnectedness of economic, social, environmental, and participative democratic dimensions. Framing questions for the conference delve into critical aspects, addressing the integration of the One Health framework within health sectors, emphasizing interlinkages between health, climate change, and decision-making. The conference’s five-dimension framework tackles the complexity of One Health, addressing concerns, solutions, and opportunities in a holistic paradigm.
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Open AccessEditorial
Preface: The 1st International Electronic Conference on Vaccines—RNA Vaccines, Current Challenges and Future Developments
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François Meurens and Fanny Renois
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 26(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024026005 - 8 Apr 2024
Abstract
The 1st International Electronic Conference on Vaccines: RNA Vaccines, Current Challenges and Future Developments (IECV 2023), was held on 1–15 December 2023 [...]
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Understanding “Eco Anxiety” in Adolescents and Young Adults
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Julie Garcia Souza
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025004 - 6 Mar 2024
Abstract
As environmental issues become more complex, so do our emotional responses to them. Paul Robbins and Sarah A. Moore offer the term “ecological anxiety” to frame scholarly discourse around a fearful response to the “negative normative influence of humans on the earth” and
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As environmental issues become more complex, so do our emotional responses to them. Paul Robbins and Sarah A. Moore offer the term “ecological anxiety” to frame scholarly discourse around a fearful response to the “negative normative influence of humans on the earth” and the “inherent influence of normative human values within one’s own science”. This comprehensive literature review unpacks the implications of “eco anxiety” within. The eco anxiety framework is relatively new, with minimal consensus on symptomatic criteria. To appropriately reflect the thoughts, emotions, and experiences of adolescents and young adults, this literature review encourages more accessible climate communication for the sake of the public and science community. Furthermore, more avenues of research are needed to study the term eco anxiety to fit a global context extending beyond Western understanding.
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Synthesis of Lignin Nanoparticles: Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches
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Rossella Grappa, Virginia Venezia, Brigida Silvestri, Aniello Costantini and Giuseppina Luciani
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025003 - 26 Feb 2024
Abstract
Lignin, a main byproduct from paper manufacturing and biorefineries, is now emerging as a new low-cost, renewable starting material for new product development. Its biocompatibility and safety make it valuable for creating novel and value-added products. Lignin, a polymer with many hydrophilic and
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Lignin, a main byproduct from paper manufacturing and biorefineries, is now emerging as a new low-cost, renewable starting material for new product development. Its biocompatibility and safety make it valuable for creating novel and value-added products. Lignin, a polymer with many hydrophilic and active groups, confers many useful properties. However, there are several challenges to overcome due to its complex chemical structure and heterogeneous self-assembly behavior. Nanostructured systems using lignin could address these challenges, finding applications in food science, cosmetics, and healthcare. This study explores two main green synthesis approaches for lignin nanoparticles: bottom-up based on the self-assembly in a solvent–antisolvent system and top-down based on the ultrasonication. These nanoparticles are evaluated for morphology, estimation of phenolic content and antioxidant effects. Specifically, the antisolvent nanostructures show a spherical conformation with a higher antioxidant activity due to a better organization of phenolic hydroxyl groups. Obtained result have been exploited to draw an efficient and cheap technological route for lignin valorization.
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Towards a One Health Assessment of Artisanal and Informal Mining in Benue State, Nigeria
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Samuel N. Paul, Chiara Frazzoli and Orish E. Orisakwe
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025002 - 22 Feb 2024
Abstract
This study evaluated the eco-health risk associated with exposure to lead (Pb) in mining sites in Benue State, Nigeria. Lead contamination was assessed in 48 water samples and 40 human blood samples. An Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer was used for Pb analysis and ELISA
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This study evaluated the eco-health risk associated with exposure to lead (Pb) in mining sites in Benue State, Nigeria. Lead contamination was assessed in 48 water samples and 40 human blood samples. An Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer was used for Pb analysis and ELISA kits for tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) analysis. A correlation was found between the blood Pb level (BLL) and the upregulation of KIM-1. The BLL of females was slightly higher than males, resulting in a higher inflammatory response through increased TNF-α levels. An increased inflammatory response due to chronic Pb exposure was observed with age. Miners and farmers around the mining sites recorded higher TNF-α levels compared to businesspeople, thus suggesting direct exposure to other mining-associated contaminants. Artisanal and informal mining impact environmental health and the Pb body burden.
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Public Health Implications of Antimicrobial Resistance in Wildlife at the One Health Interface
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Julio A. Benavides, Marilia Salgado-Caxito, Carmen Torres and Sylvain Godreuil
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 25(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2024025001 - 31 Jan 2024
Cited by 1
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) such as extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing and carbapenem-resistant (CARBA) Enterobacterales is a main global cause of human deaths and a major health burden to domestic animals. AMR circulation in wildlife has also been reported worldwide, but the public health impact and
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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) such as extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing and carbapenem-resistant (CARBA) Enterobacterales is a main global cause of human deaths and a major health burden to domestic animals. AMR circulation in wildlife has also been reported worldwide, but the public health impact and the policy actions that could limit this circulation remain unknown. Here, we summarize the key trends of AMR in wildlife, clarify the use of the term ‘reservoir’ when referring to AMR in wildlife, identify whether national plans to tackle AMR in Latin America and Europe include wildlife, and discuss the public health implications of this circulation. We provide recommendations for AMR surveillance and prevention among wild animals, as well as the key scientific knowledge gaps that are hindering understanding its dynamics. We expect our conclusions to shed light on the necessity and degree of prevention and control regarding AMR in wildlife at the human–animal–environment interface.
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Prevalence of Self-Medicated Use of Antibiotics among the Population in Ernakulam District in Kerala, India
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Divya Nair, Padinchare Veettil Gayathri and Girish Gopinath
Med. Sci. Forum 2024, 24(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECA2023-16478 - 26 Jan 2024
Abstract
Self-medication (SM) of antibiotics has become a prevalent reason for the development of antibiotic resistance. This study aims to assess the use of self-medication practices with antibiotics and related factors among the population of Ernakulam district, Kerala. Sore throat (34%) and cough (26%)
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Self-medication (SM) of antibiotics has become a prevalent reason for the development of antibiotic resistance. This study aims to assess the use of self-medication practices with antibiotics and related factors among the population of Ernakulam district, Kerala. Sore throat (34%) and cough (26%) are found to be the major reasons for the self-usage of antibiotics among people. Various antibiotics commonly used for self-medication were amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, and azithromycin. Reasons for the use of antibiotic self-medication were previous successful experiences (7.7%), convenience (11.5%), and to save costs (3.8%). Improper antibiotic use may lead to drug overuse and thereby antibiotic resistance. Hence, it should be taken only under strict supervision by an expert.
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MUSHROOMS4LIFE: Decoding the Molecular Basis of a Cancer-Fighting Small RNA Extracted from Edible Mushrooms
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Inês Sá, Miguel Ribeiro, Fernando M. Nunes, Guilhermina Marques, Raquel Chaves and Daniela Ferreira
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023009 - 23 Jan 2024
Abstract
Edible mushrooms have been considered an excellent source of nutraceuticals with high potential to prevent diseases such as cancer. Recently the anti-cancer potential of a small RNA (sRNA) fraction isolated from C. cibarius was described. To better understand its molecular nature, a study
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Edible mushrooms have been considered an excellent source of nutraceuticals with high potential to prevent diseases such as cancer. Recently the anti-cancer potential of a small RNA (sRNA) fraction isolated from C. cibarius was described. To better understand its molecular nature, a study was carried out regarding the anti-cancer potential of sRNAs isolated from different mushroom species. Apart from the isolation of RNA-rich fractions by anion exchange chromatography, miRNA’s extraction was also carried out using a commercial kit. The anti-proliferative activity of the different samples was tested in normal and cancer cell lines. Our data demonstrated differences regarding sRNA anti-cancer activity in different mushroom species, and this suggests that the sRNA fractions with anti-cancer potential are enriched in a specific sequence. These results reaffirm mushrooms as a source of bioactive compounds. In particular, the RNA-enriched isolated fractions demonstrated important anticancer potential.
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Protein Extraction from Arthrospira platensis for Use in Food Processing
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Elisa Costa, Miguel Ribeiro, Luís Filipe-Ribeiro, Fernanda Cosme and Fernando M. Nunes
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023008 - 15 Jan 2024
Abstract
Algae protein has emerged as a sustainable and non-allergenic alternative to animal protein as the market seeks to reduce reliance on traditional animal protein sources. To effectively utilize algae protein isolates, particularly from Arthrospira platensis, it is essential to develop an efficient
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Algae protein has emerged as a sustainable and non-allergenic alternative to animal protein as the market seeks to reduce reliance on traditional animal protein sources. To effectively utilize algae protein isolates, particularly from Arthrospira platensis, it is essential to develop an efficient method for protein extraction and isolation that can be scaled up. This work aims to optimize the extraction conditions to obtain high-purity protein extracts. HPLC-DAD was used to determine the total and free amino acid profiles, while SDS-PAGE and HPLC-MS/MS were used for the protein characterization. An optimized extraction method was selected based on achieving the highest protein content and purity.
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Shotgun Proteomics: A Powerful Tool for Investigating the Chemical Complexity of Biscuit Melanoidins
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João Siopa, Miguel Ribeiro, Fernanda Cosme and Fernando M. Nunes
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023007 - 12 Jan 2024
Abstract
Melanoidins are the final products of the Maillard reaction (MR), a non-enzymatic browning reaction that occurs during food thermal processing, including biscuits, which are widely consumed. This work developed a novel technique for extracting biscuit melanoidins. Using shotgun proteomics, proteins involved in melanoidin
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Melanoidins are the final products of the Maillard reaction (MR), a non-enzymatic browning reaction that occurs during food thermal processing, including biscuits, which are widely consumed. This work developed a novel technique for extracting biscuit melanoidins. Using shotgun proteomics, proteins involved in melanoidin formation were studied, and potential MR-induced protein modifications were investigated to elucidate the chemical structure and formation of biscuit melanoidins. It was observed that gluten proteins and soluble wheat flour-derived proteins were involved in melanoidin formation, along with the detection of protein modifications. These findings highlight shotgun proteomics as a promising tool for understanding biscuit melanoidins.
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Enzymatic Reduction of Sugar Content in Sucrose-Rich Fruit Products
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Tiago Durães, Miguel Azevedo, Fernanda Cosme and Fernando M. Nunes
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023006 - 12 Jan 2024
Abstract
Sugar is essential to organisms, but excessive consumption can lead to certain diseases. Overconsumption is a major concern in modern society, especially in developed countries. The purpose of this study was to convert sucrose present in sucrose-rich fruit concentrates into fructooligosaccharides (FOS) using
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Sugar is essential to organisms, but excessive consumption can lead to certain diseases. Overconsumption is a major concern in modern society, especially in developed countries. The purpose of this study was to convert sucrose present in sucrose-rich fruit concentrates into fructooligosaccharides (FOS) using the enzymes invertase (Inv) or fructosyltransferase (FTase). FOS are oligosaccharides (OS) that bypass part of the digestive system and reach the colon, where they are metabolized by gut bacteria. This can simultaneously exert prebiotic effects while reducing a product’s calories. Based on these results, it was concluded that there is potential for enzymatically reducing a product’s caloric value while converting sucrose into FOS, thus enriching the product’s dietary fiber content.
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Open AccessEditorial
Preface and Statement of Peer Review
by
Miguel Ribeiro, Fernanda Cosme, Lucinda V. Reis, Paula Lopes, Rui Campos and Alice Vilela
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023005 - 26 Dec 2023
Abstract
The inaugural international meeting of Molecules4Life (M4L) took place from the 20th to the 22nd of September 2023 at the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal [...]
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The Theoretical Description for Aesculetin and Quercetin Cathodic Electrochemical Determination in Wines
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Volodymyr V. Tkach, José Inácio F. da Paiva Martins, Zoriana M. Romanova, Viktoria V. Paientko, Sílvio C. de Oliveira, Jarem R. Garcia, Olha V. Skrypska, Yana G. Ivanushko and Petro I. Yagodynets
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023004 - 12 Dec 2023
Abstract
In this work, the possibility of cathodical electroanalytical determination of aesculetin and quercetin, the most representative polyphenolic coumarin and flavonoid, is theoretically described. The cathodic reaction is given by the electrochemical reduction of 2- and 4-pyrone rings simultaneously on a vanadium(III) oxyhydroxide-modified electrode
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In this work, the possibility of cathodical electroanalytical determination of aesculetin and quercetin, the most representative polyphenolic coumarin and flavonoid, is theoretically described. The cathodic reaction is given by the electrochemical reduction of 2- and 4-pyrone rings simultaneously on a vanadium(III) oxyhydroxide-modified electrode at a pH correspondent to wine (3 < pH ≤ 7). Analysis of the mathematical model, corresponding to the reaction mechanism, lets us conclude that, although the oscillatory behavior remains highly probable, the cathodic electroanalytical process, based on VO(OH)-assisted reaction, may be even more efficient than anodic oxidation of the polyphenolic compounds in the same conditions.
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Green Synthesis of Luminescent Carbon Nanomaterials from Porphyridium cruentum Microalgae
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Inês Chouzende, Alexandra Isabel Costa, Patrícia David Barata, Sónia Martins, Magda Cardoso Semedo, Fernando Manuel Henriques Cardoso, Maria Luísa Lobo and José Virgílio Prata
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023003 - 8 Dec 2023
Abstract
Microalgae (µAlgae) biomass was employed as a sustainable source for the synthesis of fluorescent carbon dots (μAlgae-CNDs) using a hydrothermal carbonization method and ethylenediamine (ED) as a nitrogen additive. The μAlgae-CNDs synthesized with a ratio of 0.64 of
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Microalgae (µAlgae) biomass was employed as a sustainable source for the synthesis of fluorescent carbon dots (μAlgae-CNDs) using a hydrothermal carbonization method and ethylenediamine (ED) as a nitrogen additive. The μAlgae-CNDs synthesized with a ratio of 0.64 of ED did not show cytotoxicity against non-tumor NIH 3T3 cells and sarcoma S180 cells, revealing some potential attractive properties for bioimaging.
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
A Game with a Purpose: Designing Structural Modifications in Polymyxin B to Face Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria
by
Inês Machado, João Inácio, Paula Jorge and Filipe Teixeira
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023002 - 7 Dec 2023
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent pandemic that presents an urgent threat to human health. Recently, polymyxins have been revived as a last-line therapeutic option, despite their toxicity. As such, there is a need for fast and reliable approaches to devise novel polymyxin
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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent pandemic that presents an urgent threat to human health. Recently, polymyxins have been revived as a last-line therapeutic option, despite their toxicity. As such, there is a need for fast and reliable approaches to devise novel polymyxin analogues. In this work, machine learning was employed to devise a semi-quantitative model of the activity of polymyxin-like molecules. Four learning algorithms and ten families of molecular descriptors were explored. Top performance was observed for an AdaBoost model using the Kier and Hall topological indexes, allowing for the exploration of the systematic changes in the structure of polymyxin B.
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Peptide Co-Agonists for Combined Activation of the APJ and GLP-1 Receptors with Insulinotropic and Satiety Actions Show Potential for Alleviation of Metabolic Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes
by
Finbarr O’Harte, Vadivel Parthsarathy, Sarah Craig, Ethan Palmer and Nigel Irwin
Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 23(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023023001 - 7 Dec 2023
Abstract
Stable analogues of the adipokine apelin-13 have shown promising therapeutic potential via APJ receptor activation in isolated β-cells and in animal models of obesity-related diabetes. Incretin mimetics such as exenatide that bind to GLP-1 receptors are well-established Type 2 diabetes treatment options. We
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Stable analogues of the adipokine apelin-13 have shown promising therapeutic potential via APJ receptor activation in isolated β-cells and in animal models of obesity-related diabetes. Incretin mimetics such as exenatide that bind to GLP-1 receptors are well-established Type 2 diabetes treatment options. We developed novel hybrid co-agonist peptide analogues incorporating both exendin-4(1-30) covalently linked to apelin (ELA). The dose-dependent (10−12 to 10−6 M) actions of ELA and component peptides were tested on acute (20 min) insulin secretion from cultured pancreatic BRIN-BD11 β-cells at 5.6 mmol/L glucose. In addition, separate tests were performed in the presence or absence of specific APJ and GLP-1 receptor antagonists. The co-agonist ELA peptide showed markedly greater insulinotropic actions (1.6 to 3.3-fold) than equimolar concentrations of either component peptide alone or in combination (p < 0.001). ELA and related acylated analogues (25 nmol/kg i.p. injection) were also tested on cumulative food intake in trained 21 h-fasted adult mice (n = 8), with food intake measured at 30 min intervals up to 180 min. The ELA co-agonist peptides significantly reduced food intake (3.1-fold by 180 min) in mice (p < 0.001) versus saline-treated controls. ELA peptides showed marked improvements in both insulin secretion and appetite control, raising interest in their therapeutic potential.
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