Effect Of Action Research Articles

Bioavailability of Tea Polyphenols: A Key Factor in Understanding Their Mechanisms of Action In Vivo and Health Effects.

Tea polyphenols (TPP) are key contributors to the beneficial health effects of green tea and black tea. However, their molecular mechanisms of action remain unclear. This article discusses the importance of the bioavailability of TPP in understanding their mechanisms of action and health effects of tea consumption. The systemic bioavailability is rather high for smaller catechins, low for galloyl catechins, and very low or null for oligomers and polymers from black tea. The bioavailability of TPP oxidation-derived polymers and self-assembled nanomaterials is not clearly known. If the large molecular weight TPP cannot get into systemic circulation, then the biological activities and mechanisms of action derived from studies in vitro are unlikely to be relevant to their actions in internal organs in vivo. In that case, their interactions with microbiota and actions on the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract are important to their health effects. Therefore, the bioavailability of different types of TPP is an important factor in determining their mechanisms of action and the health effects of tea consumption.

A theoretical and computational model for the synergy of electrostriction and photovoltaic effect to create photostriction

The phenomenon of photostriction, which involves generating mechanical actuation in response to light, is observed in a very limited number of materials from ferroelectric, semiconductors, and organic material classes. This limited choice of materials, combined with their responsiveness to narrow light spectra, has constrained the broader adoption of photostriction in practical applications. This study introduces a novel approach by integrating photovoltaic and electrostrictive couplings in composites made of a photovoltaic matrix with ferroelectric inclusions, yielding an apparent photostrictive effect. By leveraging the simultaneous action of both photovoltaic and electrostrictive effects, the composite efficiently converts irradiated optical energy into mechanical energy, enabling mechanical actuation across a broader range of materials and light spectra. First, we develop a computational framework for intertwined multiphysics coupling of the photovoltaic effect with nonlinear electrostriction, based on a novel constitutive model. Then, to evaluate all the effective properties that define the composite's behavior, we introduce a multiphysics-coupled homogenization framework capable of computing elastic, electrostrictive, dielectric, and thermal properties. Finally, a shell finite element formulation based on the assumptions of first-order shear deformation theory is used to analyze the behavior of the homogenized photo-electrostrictive composite based actuator. This study demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed composite by examining the deflection response of structures laminated with this photostrictive composite. Several case studies are conducted to provide insights into the development and characterization of photo-electrostrictive composites, which hold great potential for applications in mechanical actuation, shape morphing, and beyond.

Enhanced current-induced torque efficiency in Pt/Co/Tb/Cr structures through the synergistic action of orbital torque effect

We investigated the impact on the spin–orbit torque (SOT) efficiency by varying the thickness of the Cr and Tb layers in the Pt/Co/Tb/Cr system. The harmonic Hall voltage measurement shows that the Tb insert layer effectively enhances the damping-like (DL) torque efficiency, which is ascribed to the conversion of the orbital current to spin current in the Tb layer. Additionally, by fitting the Cr thickness dependence of the measured DL torque efficiency with an orbital current diffusion model, we obtained the orbital diffusion length of the Cr layer of 5.3 ± 0.3 nm and the effective orbital Hall angle of −0.18 ± 0.01. Furthermore, current-induced magnetization switching measurement suggested that the critical switching current density decreases with the insertion of the Tb layer and the increasing Cr layer thickness. Our findings offer valuable insights into the improvement of SOT efficiency by utilizing the orbital current effect and open avenues for developing energy-efficient spintronics devices.

Antimicrobial Effect and Cytocompatibility After Using Different Decontamination Methods on Titanium Implant Surfaces: An InVitro Study.

To evaluate invitro the antibacterial efficacy and cytocompatibility of different implant-decontamination methods, using both 2D and 3D peri-implant mucosa models. Four decontamination methods [chlorhexidine (CHX), electrolytic treatment (GS), curcumin (CUR), xanthohumol (XN)] were compared in four independent experiments, three with a 2D peri-implant mucosa model on titanium surfaces and another on a 3D peri-implant mucosa model. These decontamination procedures were tested for their antibacterial effect using a multispecies biofilm model with Streptococcus oralis, Actinomyces naeslundii, Veillonella dispar, and Porphyromonas gingivalis for 24 h. Direct cytocompatibility evaluating the impact of the treatments on tissue cells as well as indirect cytocompatibility (colonization of treated implant surfaces by tissue cells) were also tested. Both outcomes were assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy supported by neural networks. CHX demonstrated a strong alteration of cytocompatibility and antibacterial effect, but did not remove biofilm biomass. XN and CUR demonstrated antibacterial effect and biofilm removal action, as well as cytocompatibility. GS showed antibacterial capacity with a combination of areas completely clean of biofilm with others in which a non-vital biofilm remained. In the 3D peri-implant mucosa model, XN and CUR showed maintenance of the mucosa integrity after treatment, whereas CHX and GS displayed disruption in the mucosal layers. Phytotherapeutics (CUR and XN) were the most cytocompatible substances and showed the largest antimicrobial effect. GS displayed antibiofilm activity with a localized "bubble-shaped effect" and impaired tissue cell morphology and integrity, compromising cytocompatibility, and CHX showed antimicrobial capacity, without reducing biofilm biomass and with altered cytocompatibility.

Paederia Foetida Linn (Rubiaceae): Chemical Diversity, Phytopharmacological Potential, Quantitative Analysis and Clinical Approaches.

The discovery of novel counteractive pharmaceuticals, which have recently generated much interest, has played a significant role in the development of drugs derived from herbal medicines or botanical sources. Paederia foetida (P. foetida) is one such example of a role in both traditional and traditional medicine. Owing to its popularity in folk medicine, it has been the subject of intense pharmacological and chemical studies for the last 30 years. They are locally known as "Gandhavadulia" or "GandhaPrasarini" (English name "skunkvine") and belong to the family Rubiaceae. This plant has a broad range of applications in the treatment of several illnesses, including anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antitussive, thrombolytic, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidaemic, antioxidant, nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anthelmintic, and antidiarrheal effects. Additionally, it contains a variety of phytochemicals, such as asperuloside, paederosidic acid, sitosterols, campesterol, lignans, alkaloids, volatile oils, iridoids, methylindooxy substances, stigmasterol, tannins, triterpenoids, ellagic acid, ursolic acid, epifriedelinol, and phenolic compounds. Recently, mounting data on numerous active ingredients have indicated that they may be beneficial for spermatogenesis, wound healing, inflammatory illnesses, and cancer. This review describes the phytochemistry and mechanisms of action of these pharmacological effects and provides insights into potential pharmacological targets. These results highlight the need for additional studies on this medicinal plant and the investigation of new counteractive medications to determine their mode of action before use in healthcare.

Semaglutide: Double-edged Sword with Risks and Benefits.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus therapy has evolved over the years to now include a new class of therapeutics, semaglutide. This article reviews the mechanism of action and formulation of semaglutide therapy, potential benefits, contraindications, adverse effects, and drug interactions. Oral and subcutaneous semaglutide therapies have shown effectiveness in improving glycemic control, weight loss, and reducing cardiovascular risks associated with diabetes mellitus. Semaglutide has also shown potential in being used as a therapeutic strategy in Alzheimer's disease due to its anti-neuroinflammatory effects and being used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome. However, semaglutide therapy is also associated with concerning adverse effects like acute pancreatitis, anesthetic risks like pulmonary aspiration or residual gastric content, acute kidney injury, acute gallbladder injury, nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and diabetic retinopathy. Contraindications of semaglutide include history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, and pregnancy. Drug interactions to consider with semaglutide therapy include those also used in diabetes treatment, like metformin, as well as anti-psychotics, due to anti-psychotics associated weight gain. The findings of this article emphasize the need for a cross-disciplinary approach to understand the molecular mechanisms and clinical implications of semaglutide on patients with complex medical histories and treatment regimens. The potential anesthetic risks of semaglutide therapy warrant careful consideratiion with ethical concerns. Further studies can assess if there is a need to modify pre-operative guidelines to account for patient using semaglutide and how delayed gastric emptying and constitpation will affect surgical outcomes and complications. While semaglutide therapy for diabetes mellitus has been established, there is a need for extensive research on repurposing semaglutide in neurodegenerative disease treatment.

Computational investigation into the solvent effect, electron distribution, reactivity profile, pharmacokinetic properties and anti-cancer action of Hemimycalin C

Computational investigation into the solvent effect, electron distribution, reactivity profile, pharmacokinetic properties and anti-cancer action of Hemimycalin C

Antimicrobial Activity of Naphthyridine Derivatives.

To combat the problem of the increasing drug resistance of microorganisms, it is necessary to constantly search for new medicinal substances that will demonstrate more effective mechanisms of action with a limited number of side effects. Naphthyridines are N-heterocyclic compounds containing a fused system of two pyridine rings, occurring in the form of six structural isomers with different positions of nitrogen atoms, which exhibit a wide spectrum of pharmacological activity, in particular antimicrobial properties. This review presents most of the literature data about the synthetic and natural naphthyridine derivatives that have been reported to possess antimicrobial activity.

Non-invasive Assessment of HydroQUInidine EffecT in Brugada Syndrome (QUIET BrS).

Hydroquinidine reduces arrhythmic events in patients with Brugada syndrome (BrS). The mechanism by which it exerts antiarrhythmic benefit and its electrophysiological effects on BrS substrate remain incompletely understood. This study aimed to determine the effect of Hydroquinidine on ventricular depolarisation and repolarisation in patients with BrS in vivo. Twelve patients with BrS underwent electrocardiogram (standard, high-lead and signal averaged) and electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) at baseline and "on-treatment" with Hydroquinidine 300mg twice daily. ST-segment elevation, activation time (AT), repolarisation time (RT) and activation-recovery intervals (ARI) were computed for the ventricles and the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). Serum Hydroquinidine levels were determined, and adverse drug events captured through medication survey. Hydroquinidine increased RT (301.1 ± 24.1ms vs 348.8 ± 28.3ms, p <0.001), repolarisation gradients (1.1 ± 0.4 ms/mm vs 1.6 ± 0.4 ms/mm, p<0.001) and ARI (241.3 ± 18.1 ms vs 284.8 ± 21.5 ms, p<0.001) in the RVOT, with a greater change in the RVOT compared to the rest of the ventricles. In contrast, activation parameters did not change significantly on-treatment with Hydroquinidine, although there was a subtle increase in ST-segment elevation over the RVOT (1.5 ± 0.7mV vs 1.8 ± 0.8mV; P<0.001). Hydroquinidine levels did not correlate with electrophysiological changes or occurrence of adverse drug reactions. One patient developed frequent non-sustained ventricular tachycardia on-treatment with Hydroquinidine. Hydroquinidine primarily effects ventricular repolarisation and action potential duration (indicated by ARI) in patients with BrS and demonstrates regional variation with more significant changes in the RVOT.

Caffeine-Induced Upregulation of pas-1 and pas-3 Enhances Intestinal Integrity by Reducing Vitellogenin in Aged Caenorhabditis elegans Model.

Background: Intestinal aging is characterized by declining protein homeostasis via reduced proteasome activity, which are hallmarks of age-related diseases. Our previous study showed that caffeine intake improved intestinal integrity with age by reducing vitellogenin (VIT, yolk protein) in C. elegans. In this study, we investigated the regulatory mechanisms by which caffeine intake improves intestinal integrity and reduces vitellogenin (VIT) production in aged Caenorhabditis elegans. Methods: We performed RNA-seq analysis, and qRT-PCR to validate and confirm the RNA-seq results. Transgenic worms with VIT-2::GFP and VIT-6::GFP were used for measuring VIT production. dsRNAi was conducted to elucidate the roles of pas-1 and pas-3 genes. Results:pas-1 and pas-3, a C. elegans ortholog of human PASM4, was upregulated by caffeine intake. They reduced VIT production by repressing unc-62, a transcriptional activator of vit expression. Interestingly, vit-2 was required for pas-1 and pas-3 expression, and RNAi of pas-1 and pas-3 promoted intestinal atrophy and colonization, suggesting a balancing mechanism for VIT levels in intestinal health. Additionally, lifespan was extended by caffeine intake (2 ± 0.05 days), however, this effect was not observed by pas-1 but not pas-3 RNAi, suggesting that the mode of action for an anti-aging effect of caffeine through pas-1 and pas-3 is distinctive. The lifespan extended by pas-1 was mediated by SKN-1 activation. Conclusions: Caffeine intake enhances intestinal health through proteasome activity and extends lifespan in aged C. elegans by upregulating pas-1 and pas-3. These findings suggest that caffeine consumption mitigates age-related proteasome impairment and maintains intestinal integrity during aging.

Novel fluorinated cannabinoid analogs modulate cytokine expression in human C20 microglial cells.

Phytochemicals derived from the plant Cannabis sativa hold promise in terms of medicinal value. Cannabinoids such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol (CBN) are arguably the best characterized and known to possess wide-ranging therapeutic benefits. The mechanism of action for these therapeutic effects remains to be fully elucidated, however, the anti-inflammatory actions are of particular interest. Maximizing therapeutic effects while limiting adverse effects is crucial in pharmaceutical development. Fluorination of natural products often yields molecules with enhanced biological properties and provides opportunities for intellectual property protection not available to the natural product. Herein, we describe four novel cannabinoids (a deoxy trifluoroCBN analog (F3CBN), the racemic cis-deoxy-trifluoro-THC (F3THC), and truncated pyridine analogs of an intermediate in route to the THC and CBN, SG126 and SG154. Importantly, we provide the initial assessment of the biologic activity of these molecules, by investigating the in vitro effects on metabolic activity (via 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5,-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, MTT assay) and cytokine expression (via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, ELISA) in human C20 microglial cells. The cannabinoids examined had minimal to no effect on metabolic activity up to 10µM. Notably, F3CBN and F3THC potentiated interleukin-1 β (IL-1β)-induced expression of interferon-γ inducible protein 10 (CXCL10) and IL-6 expression whereas, SG126 and SG154 were inhibitory. These findings are foundational for new lines of investigation into the therapeutic potential of four novel fluorinated cannabinoids.

Dual-functional GaN photodiode for photodetection and neuromorphic computing with high specific detectivity.

The discrepancy in the photoresponse characteristics between photodetectors (PDs) and photosynapses is posing a challenge for integrating the two functions into a single device. In this work, a photodetector integrated with neuromorphic capabilities is demonstrated. Under the joint action of the photovoltaic effect and photoconductive effect, the proposed device can switch between the photodetector and photosynapse by simply altering the polarity of bias voltage. Under a reverse or zero bias voltage, the device operates as a photodetector with low dark current and high specific detectivity. On the other hand, when a positive bias voltage is applied, the device showcases synaptic functionalities such as excitatory postsynaptic current, paired-pulse facilitation, and transition from short-term memory to long-term memory. The dual-functional devices hold promise for weak light detection and neuromorphic computing in complex environments.

The intestinal microbiome and Cetobacterium somerae inhibit viral infection through TLR2-type I IFN signaling axis in zebrafish

BackgroundEvidence has accumulated to demonstrate that intestinal microbiome can inhibit viral infection. However, our knowledge of the signaling pathways and identity of specific commensal microbes that mediate the antiviral response is limited. Zebrafish have emerged as a powerful animal model for study of vertebrate-microbiota interactions. Here, a rhabdoviral infection model in zebrafish allows us to investigate the modes of action of microbiome-mediated antiviral effect.ResultsWe observed that oral antibiotics-treated and germ-free zebrafish exhibited greater spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV) infection. Mechanistically, depletion of the intestinal microbiome alters TLR2-Myd88 signaling and blunts neutrophil response and type I interferon (IFN) antiviral innate immunity. Through 16S rRNA sequencing of the intestinal contents from control and antibiotic(s)-treated fish, we identified a single commensal bacterial species, Cetobacterium somerae, that can restore the TLR2- and neutrophil-dependent type I IFN response to restrict SVCV infection in gnotobiotic zebrafish. Furthermore, we found that C. somerae exopolysaccharides (CsEPS) was the effector molecule that engaged TLR2 to mediate the type I IFN-dependent antiviral function.ConclusionsTogether, our results suggest a conserved role of intestinal microbiome in regulating type I IFN antiviral response among vertebrates and reveal that the intestinal microbiome inhibits viral infection through a CsEPS-TLR2-type I IFN signaling axis in zebrafish.7E-apxbKV4cu6qTqgWcuKAVideo

Future photovoltaic potential in India: navigating the interplay between air pollution control and climate change mitigation

Abstract India has set ambitious solar energy targets to meet its climate commitments. However, climate change, already evident in the country, poses significant challenges to solar power generation. Therefore, assessing the impact of climate change on future photovoltaic potential in India is essential. This study evaluates the mid-century (2041–2050) solar photovoltaic potential across Indian power grids using CMIP6 models under two scenarios: SSP2-4.5 (moderate climate action with intermediate air pollution) and SSP5-8.5 (weak climate action with strong air pollution control). The results indicate that the nationally averaged photovoltaic potential is projected to decrease by −2.3 ± 0.6% (SSP5-8.5) to −3.3 ± 0.9% (SSP2-4.5) compared to the 1985–2014 baseline, primarily due to reduced radiation and increased temperatures. Additionally, cell temperatures are expected to rise by 1.5 ± 0.13 °C (SSP2-4.5) to 2 ± 0.11 °C (SSP5-8.5), leading to efficiency losses and additional 18 ± 5 d under SSP2-4.5 (26 ± 3 d under SSP5-8.5) of efficiency de-rating, particularly in solar-rich regions. This translates to a loss of 600 ± 160 GWh under SSP2-4.5 and 840 ± 100 GWh under SSP5-8.5, based on the solar generation status of 2023–24. Overall, SSP5-8.5 projects a smaller reduction in photovoltaic potential, it also predicts greater temperature-induced efficiency losses compared to SSP2-4.5, due to aerosol direct effect and weak climate action. Finally, this assessment highlights the need for combined climate and pollution mitigation efforts to boost India’s photovoltaic potential and secure a sustainable, resilient energy future.

Cannabinoid regulation of sex-dependent murine odorant-stimulated salivation

Salivation is easily taken for granted, but without normal salivation, simple essential tasks such as chewing and swallowing become difficult, with consequences for quality of life, nutrition and oral health. Many important drug classes cause dry mouth as a side effect, contributing substantially to patient non-compliance. Available treatments are mostly palliative. Cannabis user complaints of dry mouth prompted a study that showed that basal salivation is likely regulated by cannabinoid CB1 receptors on neurons that innervate the submandibular gland. But what about stimulated salivation? The adjoining parotid gland releases saliva in response to olfactory or other cues and contributes a large portion of the net salivation in humans. We investigated cannabinoid regulation of stimulated salivation using functional and protein-expression studies in mice. In developing a model of stimulated salivary responses to food-related odorants in mice, we noted sex-dependent responses to food-related cues. Only male mice learned to salivate in response to the odor of peanut butter while only female mice responded to a chocolate hazelnut spread. Both males and females responded to sugar or marmite. Testing peanut butter, we found that the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55940 (0.5 mg/kg, IP) lowered baseline salivation, as shown previously, but also prevented the odorant-induced increase in salivation. CB1 receptors are expressed in axons innervating the parotid gland, paralleling our findings in the submandibular gland. Notably, we also found that CB1 deletion impaired some responses (those to peanut butter and chocolate hazelnut spread) but not others (sugar or marmite). In mice, the CB1 antagonist SR141716 (4 mg/kg, IP) prevented a previously learned salivary response to peanut butter. We find that CB1 receptors are expressed in a subset of glomeruli in coronal sections of olfactory bulb that may serve as a site of action for scent-specific effects of CB1 receptors. We additionally observe CB1 expression in accessory olfactory bulb. In summary, we find a novel sex-dependence in responses to a subset of food-related odorant cues and that cannabinoid receptors regulate some of these responses. We propose that CB1 receptors act at the parotid gland to inhibit stimulated salivation but also in the olfactory system, where functional CB1 receptors are required for salivary responses to specific appetitive odors.

The Acute Toxicity and Cardiotoxic Effects of Protocatechuic Aldehyde on Juvenile Zebrafish.

Protocatechuic aldehyde (PCA) is a natural phenolic acid compound with pharmacological effects such as anti-oxidative stress, antibacterial, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-platelet aggregation, and anti-tumor. Despite the favorable therapeutic effects of PCA, it is imperative to recognize that adverse drug reactions can arise even with satisfactory quality assurance measures and during standard clinical application and dosing. Additionally, the acute toxicity and cardiotoxic sequelae of PCA are frequently under reported in the available documentation. To investigate the acute toxicity and cardiotoxic effects of PCA, the present study comprehensively assessed the acute toxicity and cardiotoxic effects of PCA by administering different concentrations of PCA and by monitoring the phenotypic changes in zebrafish, using AB wild-type Tg(cmlc2:EGFP) zebrafish as the experimental model organism. Meanwhile, the target genes of PCA that may cause cardiotoxicity were predicted and validated using a network pharmacology approach. Our findings indicated that PCA exhibited severe acute toxicity and cardiotoxic effects in zebrafish at 70 μg/mL and 80 μg/mL. Furthermore, PIK3CA, PARP1, and GSK3β may be involved in the mechanism of action of the cardiotoxicity-inducing effects of this compound. The present investigation has afforded a deeper insight into the acute toxicity and cardiotoxic impacts of PCA on zebrafish and has established a significant theoretical foundation for the evaluation of toxicity in pharmaceuticals incorporating PCA.

Polyfluorene bearing quinoline and ferrocene as the pendant groups for bioelectronics

Abstract Analog-type polymer memristors are preeminent candidates for neuromorphic computation and synaptic biomimicking. A novel polyfluorene bearing quinoline and ferrocene as the pendant groups (PQF) is synthesized. The PQF film sandwiched between the Al and ITO electrodes exhibits outstanding analog-type memristive performance at a small sweep voltage range of ±1 V, with 42 distinguishable conductance states. In comparison, poly{[9,9-di(2,4-diphenylquinoline)-fluorene]-alt-[9,9-bis(6-bromohexyl)-9H-fluorene]}, and poly {[9H-fluorene]-alt-[fluorene with triazole and ferrocene moieties in the sidechains]} only show 12 and 15 distinguishable conductance states, respectively. The former only involves intramolecular charge transfer from the polymer backbone to the quinolone moieties, while the latter mainly concerns redox effect from the ferrocene moieties. These results demonstrate that the combined action of intramolecular electron transfer and redox effect could dramatically increase the number of distinguishable conductive states of the resultant materials. Associated with the exceptional memristive performance, the PQF-based memristor can accurately recognize human emotions. After 150 training sessions, the accuracy of emotion recognition reaches up to 98.74%.

Predicting susceptibility to COVID-19 infection in patients on maintenance hemodialysis by cross-coupling soluble ACE2 concentration with lymphocyte count: an algorithmic approach.

Patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) were more vulnerable to and had a higher mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic. As angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine S1 member 2 (TMPRSS2) played crucial roles in viral entry into the human host cells, we therefore investigated in the MHD patients whether their plasma levels were associated with susceptibility to the COVID-19. Blood samples were collected from the patients in our then COVID-19 free center immediately upon lifting of the stringent quarantine measures in early December of 2022 and infection situation was observed within the following 2 weeks. Plasma levels of the soluble ACE2 (sACE2), ACE (sACE) and TMPRSS2 (sTMPRSS2) were measured with ELISA method. Data were stepwisely tested for independent effect, relevant role and synergistic action on the susceptibility by multiple logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic curve and multiple dimensionality reduction (MDR) method, respectively. Among the 174 eligible patients, 95 (54.6%) turned COVID-19 positive with a male to female ratio of 1.57 during the observation period. Comparing with the uninfected, the infected had significantly higher sACE2 and lower sTMPRSS2 levels upon comparable sACE concentration. Besides the sACE2, factors associated with susceptibility were vintage and individual session time of the hemodialysis, smoking and comorbidity of hepatitis, whereas lymphocyte counts showed a tendency (p = 0.052). Patients simultaneously manifesting higher sACE2 level and lower lymphocyte counts had an increased infection risk as confirmed by the MDR method. By sorting out the susceptible ones expeditiously, this algorithmic approach may help the otherwise vulnerable MHD patients weather over future wave of COVID-19 variants or outbreak of other viral diseases.

Beauveria bassiana associated with a novel biomimetic hydrogel to control Aedes albopictus through lure and kill ovitraps.

Within the framework of sustainable and effective control methods for Aedes albopictus, two different conidial suspensions, BbCS-1 and BbCS-2 (respectively without and with nutrients), were used as solvents for the biopolymers water-soluble 2-hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) and sodium alginate (SA). In this way, two different classes of hydrogels were prepared for each polymer (previously shown to attract tiger mosquito oviposition) to produce HEC-based and SA-based Bb/Gel systems with and without nutrients. The aim was to achieve a long-lasting and cost-effective lure-and-kill oviposition substrate useful for lethal ovitraps. Beauveria bassiana (Bb) survival and growth in the different Bb/Gel systems were monitored for 24 days. Following the growth assay, 24-day-old Bb/Gel systems were tested against Ae. albopictus eggs through a hatching test to evaluate their lethal effect. Gel systems enhance Bb's longevity (up to 24 days) more effectively than standard liquid conidial suspensions, proving that tested HEC- and SA-based hydrogels are not toxic for Bb (biocompatibility) and create a microenvironment suitable to sustain prolonged fungal growth. In particular, the results indicate that gel system based on hydroxyethylcellulose is a suitable delivery substrate for supporting the activity of Bb and is simultaneously effective against Ae. albopictus eggs through a combined mechanism of mechanical effect and fungal action (CM > 90%). The efficacy of Bb gel systems was assessed according to its properties in favouring the growth and vitality of Bb as well as in reducing the Ae. albopictus hatching eggs rate. Further studies, in semi-field and field conditions, will be useful to evaluate the efficacy of Bb/Gel systems on adults in terms of attraction, oviposition, mortality, and potential autodissemination to propose a new tool in precision pest management. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Emerging RNAi Therapies to Treat Hypertension.

Hypertension (HTN), often dubbed the "silent killer," poses a significant global health challenge, affecting over 1.3 billion individuals. Despite advances in treatment, effective long-term blood pressure (BP) control remains elusive, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches. Poor control of BP remains a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide and is becoming an even larger global health problem due to the aging population, rising rates of obesity, poorer dietary patterns and overall cardiometabolic health, and suboptimal rates of patient adherence and optimal BP control. Ribonucleic acid interference (RNAi) technology, which leverages the body's natural gene-silencing mechanism, has emerged as a promising strategy for several diseases and has recently been tested for its antihypertensive effects. We systematically reviewed peer-reviewed articles from databases including PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus for studies examining RNAi's role in managing HTN, focusing on mechanisms, clinical utility, and safety profile. Key early-phase trials of some RNAi-leading candidate drugs are detailed. Also highlighted are challenges such as target specificity, delivery mechanisms, durability of effect, and immunogenicity. We conclude by summarizing how RNAi has a significant potential role in HTN therapy due to their unique benefits, such as long-term duration of action, infrequent dosing, and lack of major side effects.