Retraction Note: Autoantibodies detection in patients affected by autoimmune retinopathies

The article "Autoantibodies detection in patients affected by autoimmune retinopathies", by M.R. Ceccarini, M.C. Medori, K. Dhuli, S. Tezzele, G. Bonetti, C. Micheletti, P.E. Maltese, S. Cecchin, K. Donato, L. Colombo, L. Rossetti, G. Staurenghi, A.P. Salvetti, M. Oldani, L. Ziccardi, D. Marangoni, G. Iarossi, B. Falsini, G. Placidi, F. D'Esposito, F. Viola, M. Nassisi, G. Leone, L. Cimino, L. De Simone, V. Mastrofilippo, T. Beccari, M. Bertelli, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 57-63-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34690-PMID: 38112948 has been retracted by the Editor in Chief for the following reasons. Following some concerns raised on PubPeer, the Editor in Chief has started an investigation to assess the validity of the results. The outcome of the investigation revealed that the manuscript presented major flaws in the following: -       Issues with ethical approval -       Undeclared conflict of interest In light of concerns regarding the potential manipulation of Supplementary Figure 2, the journal's inquiry has been unable to conclusively determine whether the alterations noted on PubPeer constitute figure manipulation. The investigation yielded divergent evaluations. However, given the aforementioned concerns, the Editor in Chief doubts the integrity of the findings presented and thus, has opted to retract the article. The authors disagree with this retraction. This article has been retracted. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34690.

Retraction Note: Metabolomic profiling of amino acid alterations in anorexia nervosa: implications for appetite regulation and therapeutic strategies

The article "Metabolomic profiling of amino acid alterations in anorexia nervosa: implications for appetite regulation and therapeutic strategies", by K. Donato, K. Dhuli, A. Macchia, M.C. Medori, C. Micheletti, G. Bonetti, M.R. Ceccarini, T. Beccari, P. Chiurazzi, S. Cristoni, V. Benfatti, L. Dalla Ragione, M. Bertelli, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 64-76-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34691-PMID: 38112949 has been retracted by the Editor in Chief for the following reasons. Following some concerns raised on PubPeer, the Editor in Chief has started an investigation to assess the validity of the results. The outcome of the investigation revealed that the manuscript presented major flaws in the following: -       Issues with ethical approval -       Undeclared conflict of interest Consequently, the Editor in Chief mistrusts the results presented and has decided to retract the article. The authors disagree with this retraction. This article has been retracted. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34691.

A comparative study of supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms applied to human microbiome

Background

The human microbiome, consisting of diverse bacte-rial, fungal, protozoan and viral species, exerts a profound influence on various physiological processes and disease susceptibility. However, the complexity of microbiome data has presented significant challenges in the analysis and interpretation of these intricate datasets, leading to the development of specialized software that employs machine learning algorithms for these aims.

Methods

In this paper, we analyze raw data taken from 16S rRNA gene sequencing from three studies, including stool samples from healthy control, patients with adenoma, and patients with colorectal cancer. Firstly, we use network-based methods to reduce dimensions of the dataset and consider only the most important features. In addition, we employ supervised machine learning algorithms to make prediction.

Results

Results show that graph-based techniques reduces dimen-sion from 255 up to 78 features with modularity score 0.73 based on different centrality measures. On the other hand, projection methods (non-negative matrix factorization and principal component analysis) reduce dimensions to 7 features. Furthermore, we apply supervised machine learning algorithms on the most important features obtained from centrality measures and on the ones obtained from projection methods, founding that the evaluation metrics have approximately the same scores when applying the algorithms on the entire dataset, on 78 feature and on 7 features.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the efficacy of graph-based and projection methods in the interpretation for 16S rRNA gene sequencing data. Supervised machine learning on refined features from both approaches yields comparable predictive performance, emphasizing specific microbial features-bacteroides, prevotella, fusobacterium, lysinibacillus, blautia, sphingomonas, and faecalibacterium-as key in predicting patient conditions from raw data.

Retraction Note: The potential preventive role of a dietary supplement containing hydroxytyrosol in COVID-19: a multi-center study

The article "The potential preventive role of a dietary supplement containing hydroxytyrosol in COVID-19: a multi-center study", by K. Dhuli, C. Micheletti, M.C. Medori, G. Madeo, G. Bonetti, K. Donato, F. Gaffuri, G.M. Tartaglia, S. Michelini, A. Fiorentino, D. Cesarz, S.T. Connelly, N. Capodicasa, M. Bertelli, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 33-38-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34687-PMID: 38112946 has been retracted by the Editor in Chief for the following reasons. Following some concerns raised on PubPeer, the Editor in Chief has started an investigation to assess the validity of the results. The outcome of the investigation revealed that the manuscript presented major flaws in the following: -       Issues with ethical approval -       Issues in methodology -       Undeclared conflict of interest Consequently, the Editor in Chief mistrusts the results presented and has decided to withdraw the article. The authors disagree with this retraction. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34687 This article has been retracted. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Author Correction: Aldo-keto reductase 1C2 (AKR1C2) as the second gene associated to non-syndromic primary lipedema: investigating activating mutation or overexpression as causative factors

Correction to: Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 127-136-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34697 After publication and following some post-publication concerns, the authors have applied the following corrections to the galley proof. -       The conflict of interest section has been amended as follows: J. Kaftalli and G. Marceddu are employees at MAGI EUREGIO. K. Donato is employee at MAGI EUREGIO and MAGISNAT. M. Bertelli is president of MAGI EUREGIO, MAGISNAT, and MAGI's LAB. G. Bonetti, K. Dhuli, A. Macchia, and P.E. Maltese are employees at MAGI's LAB. M. Bertelli, P.E. Maltese, K. Louise Herbst, Sa. Michelini, Se. Michelini, and P. Chiurazzi are patent inventors (US20220362260A1). M. Bertelli, P.E. Maltese, G. Marceddu are patent inventors (US20230173003A1). M. Bertelli, K. Dhuli and P.E. Maltese are patent inventors (WO2022079498A1). M. Bertelli, P.E. Maltese, Sa. Michelini, Se. Michelini, P. Chiurazzi, K. Louise Herbst, J. Kaftalli, K. Donato, and A. Bernini are patent applicants (Application Number 18/516,241). M. Bertelli, K. Donato, P. Chiurazzi, G. Marceddu, K. Dhuli, G. Bonetti and J. Kaftalli are patent applicants (Application Number: 18/466.879). M. Bertelli, G. Bonetti, G. Marceddu, K. Donato, K. Dhuli, J. Kaftalli, Sa. Michelini, and K. Louise Herbst are patent applicants (Application Number 63/495,155). The remaining authors have no conflict of interest to disclose. -       Figure 5 has been modified as follows to better distinguish outliers: -       The legend of Figure 5 has to be modified as follows: Relative expression of AKR1C1 and AKR1C3 in different groups (CTR = non affected controls, L = lipedema patients without overexpression of AKR1C2, L-over = Lipedema patients with overexpression of AKR1C2), showing that lipedema patients expressed AKR1C1 and AKR1C3 levels similar to the control group. Outliers are reported as black triangles. There are amendments to this paper. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34697.

Author Correction: Achievement of sustainable development goals through the Mediterranean diet

Correction to: Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 89-99-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34693 After publication and following some post-publication concerns, the authors have applied the following corrections to the galley proof. -       The conflict of interest section has been amended as follows: M.C. Medori and D. Malacarne are employees at MAGI'S LAB. K. Donato is employee at MAGI EUREGIO and MAGISNAT. M. Bertelli is president of MAGI EUREGIO, MAGISNAT, and MAGI's LAB. E. Borghetti is president at AERSAFE srl. C. Zuccato is researcher at AERSAFE srl. E. Borghetti is patent inventor (IT202100021344A1, IT202100020330A1, WO2021260537A1, WO2022259165A1). M. Bertelli is patent inventor (US20220362260A1, US20230173003A1, WO2022079498A1). D. Malacarne is patent inventor (WO2022079498A1; US20230173003A1). S. Michelini is patent inventor (US20220362260A1). M. Bertelli, S. Michelini, and K. Donato are patent applicants (Application Number: 18/516,241). M. Bertelli and K. Donato are patent applicants (Application Number: 18/466.879). M. Bertelli, K. Donato, and S. Michelini are patent applicants (Application Number: 63/495,155). The remaining authors have no conflict of interest to disclose. There are amendments to this paper. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34693.

Retraction Note: Presence of viral spike protein and vaccinal spike protein in the blood serum of patients with long-COVID syndrome

The article "Presence of viral spike protein and vaccinal spike protein in the blood serum of patients with long-COVID syndrome", by K. Dhuli, M.C. Medori, C. Micheletti, K. Donato, F. Fioretti, A. Calzoni, A. Praderio, M.G. De Angelis, G. Arabia, S. Cristoni, S. Nodari, M. Bertelli, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 13-19-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34685-PMID: 38112944 has been retracted by the Editor in Chief for the following reasons. Following some concerns raised on PubPeer, the Editor in Chief has started an investigation to assess the validity of the results. The outcome of the investigation revealed that the manuscript presented major flaws in the following: -       Unclear methodology and patient recruitment -       Discrepancies among data reported in the text and tables -       Unreliable results -       Undeclared conflict of interest Consequently, the Editor in Chief mistrusts the results presented and has decided to withdraw the article. The authors disagree with this retraction. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34685.

Author Correction: Genetic variants identified in novel candidate genes for anorexia nervosa and analysis of molecular pathways for diagnostic applications

Correction to: Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27 (6 Suppl): 77-88-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202312_34692 After publication and following some post-publication concerns, the authors have applied the following corrections to the galley proof. The conflict of interest section has been amended as follows: K. Donato is employee at MAGI EUREGIO and MAGISNAT. G. Marceddu is employee at MAGI EUREGIO. M. Bertelli is president of MAGI EUREGIO, MAGISNAT, and MAGI's LAB. M.C. Medori, A. Macchia, S. Cecchin, C. Micheletti, K. Dhuli, G. Madeo, G. Bonetti are employees at MAGI's LAB. M. Bertelli, M.R. Ceccarini, and P. Chiurazzi are patent inventors (US20220362260A11). M. Bertelli, P.E. Maltese, G. Marceddu, and S. Cecchin are patent inventors (US20230173003A1). M. Bertelli, K. Dhuli, and P.E. Maltese are patent inventors (WO2022079498A1). M. Bertelli, K. Donato, M.C. Medori, M.R. Ceccarini, T. Beccari, P. Chiurazzi, C. Micheletti, K. Dhuli, G. Bonetti, G. Marceddu are patent applicants (Application Number: 18/466.879). The remaining authors have no conflict of interest to disclose. Since the current study shares the same NGS panel for the genetic analysis as the study cited in Ref. 5 (Ceccarini MR, Precone V, Manara E, Paolacci S, Maltese PE, Benfatti V, Dhuli K, Donato K, Guerri G, Marceddu G, Chiurazzi P, Dalla Ragione L, Beccari T, Bertelli M. A next generation sequencing gene panel for use in the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27: 1869-1880), the authors amend the following sentence: "A subset comprising 163 genes from a dedicated Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) panel was analyzed5" in "A subset comprising 163 genes from a dedicated Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) panel, previously used in the study by Ceccarini et al5, was analyzed". The authors clarify that the analyzed patients of the two articles are completely independent. To clarify the data reported in Table II, the authors amend the following sentence: "Genetic variants identified in the AN population are reported in Table II." In "The genomic sequencing NGS was performed in all 135 patients recruited in the study. After obtaining the raw data, based on the ACMG guidelines (https://www.acmg.net/ACMG/Medical-Genetics-Practice-Resources/Practice-Guidelines.aspx), the results were filtered, and Table II reports the variants considered Pathogenic (P), likely pathogenic (LP), and Variable with Uncertain Significance (VUS), 61 patients in total". Consequently, to improve clarity, the legend of Table II has been amended as follows: Genetic variants identified in 61 patients out of the total 135 patients analyzed by NGS. There are amendments to this paper. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/34692.

Aldo-keto reductase 1C2 (AKR1C2) as the second gene associated to non-syndromic primary lipedema: investigating activating mutation or overexpression as causative factors

OBJECTIVE

Lipedema is a debilitating chronic condition predominantly affecting women, characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat in a symmetrical, bilateral pattern in the extremities, often coinciding with hormonal imbalances.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Despite the conjectured role of sex hormones in its etiology, a definitive link has remained elusive. This study explores the case of a patient possessing a mutation deletion within the C-terminal region of Aldo-keto reductases Member C2 (AKR1C2), Ser320PheTer2, that could lead to heightened enzyme activity. A cohort of 19 additional lipedema patients and 2 additional affected family members14 were enrolled in this study. The two additional affected family members are relatives of the patient with the AKR1C1 L213Q variant, which is included in the 19 cohorts and described in literature.

RESULTS

Our investigation revealed that AKR1C2 was overexpressed, as quantified by qPCR, in 5 out of 21 (24%) lipedema patients who did not possess mutations in the AKR1C2 gene. Collectively, these findings implicate AKR1C2 in the pathogenesis of lipedema, substantiating its causative role.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that the activating mutation in the enzyme or its overexpression is a causative factor in the development of lipedema. Further exploration and replication in diverse populations will bolster our understanding of this significant connection.

Achievement of sustainable development goals through the Mediterranean diet

The prosperity of our planet relies on the cardinal concept of sustainable development. The dietary choices of humans play a pivotal role in creating a peaceful and contented world. In this context, the Mediterranean diet (MD) has emerged as a valuable approach to accomplishing such progress, wherein the rights of all living beings are equally honored. This review aims to analyze the significance of a plant-based diet, particularly the Mediterranean diet, in attaining sustainable development goals. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted to gather the most reliable and published scientific evidence from books and papers. Within this research endeavor, specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are individually addressed in relation to the adoption of the Mediterranean diet as a foundational nutritional paradigm. Our research findings underscore the immense importance of the MD and advocate for its worldwide implementation to accomplish sustainable development objectives. The MD emerges as the most suitable dietary option for fostering sustainability and tranquility in our world. It is crucial to prioritize the global implementation of the MD to genuinely achieve sustainable development.

Presence of viral spike protein and vaccinal spike protein in the blood serum of patients with long-COVID syndrome

OBJECTIVE

COVID-19 patients experience, in 10-20% of the cases, a prolonged long-COVID syndrome, defined as the persistence of symptoms for at least two months after the infection. The underlying biological mechanisms of this syndrome remain poorly understood. Several hypotheses have been proposed, among which are the potential autoimmunity resulting from molecular mimicry between viral spike protein and human proteins, the reservoir and viral reproduction hypothesis, and the viral integration hypothesis. Although official data state that vaccinal spike protein is harmless and remains at the site of infection, several studies proposed spike protein toxicity and found it in blood circulation several months after the vaccination. To search for the presence of viral and vaccine spike protein in a cohort of long-COVID patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study, we employed a proteomic-based approach utilizing mass spectrometry to analyze the serum of 81 patients with long-COVID syndrome. Moreover, viral integration in patients' leukocytes was assessed with a preliminary study, without further investigation.

RESULTS

We identified the presence of the viral spike protein in one patient after infection clearance and negativity of COVID-19 test and the vaccine spike protein in two patients two months after the vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

This study, in agreement with other published investigations, demonstrates that both natural and vaccine spike protein may still be present in long-COVID patients, thus supporting the existence of a possible mechanism that causes the persistence of spike protein in the human body for much longer than predicted by early studies. According to these results, all patients with long-COVID syndrome should be analyzed for the presence of vaccinal and viral spike protein.

Unleashing the potential of biotechnology for sustainable development

The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) strive to eliminate poverty, preserve the planet, and promote shared prosperity through sustainable and inclusive means by 2030. This requires the implementation of a diverse set of strategies to overcome challenges and foster synergies among different SDG targets, facilitating the achievement of these ambitious goals. The aim of this review is to highlight the world's progress toward SDGs with the utilization of biotechnological advancements, including targets, strategies, synergies, and challenges. We scrutinized published research articles in peer-reviewed journals, UN reports, and scientific books that were relevant to the current topic. We identified some major challenges faced by the countries, especially developing ones, in the way of sustainable progress. These include inadequate governance, fragile states, armed conflicts, rising inequality, limited economic progress, climate change, environmental degradation, and food insecurity. Biotechnological advancements contribute to sustainable resource management, environmental conservation, and ecosystem restoration. Collaboration among countries and organizations is crucial for sharing knowledge and providing technical and financial assistance to developing nations.

Linking pathogenic and likely pathogenic gene variants to long-COVID symptoms

OBJECTIVE

Long-COVID is a clinical syndrome characterized by the presence of symptoms related to SARS-CoV-2 infection that persist for at least four weeks after recovery from COVID-19. Genetics have been proposed to play an important role in long-COVID syndrome onset. This study aimed to identify genetic pathogenetic and likely pathogenetic causative variants of Mendelian genetic diseases in patients with Long-COVID syndrome. Additionally, we aimed to establish an association between these genetic variants and the clinical symptoms manifested during long-COVID syndrome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

95 patients affected by long-COVID syndrome were analyzed with a Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) panel comprising 494 genes. The analyzed genes and the symptoms of the patients collected with an ad-hoc questionnaire were divided into four groups (cardiological, respiratory, immunological, and neurological). Finally, a statistical analysis comprising descriptive statistics, classification based on reported symptoms, and comparative analysis against a control group of healthy individuals was conducted.

RESULTS

12 patients resulted positive for genetic testing with an autosomal dominance (8) or autosomal recessive (4) inheritance, showing a higher prevalence of cardiovascular genetic diseases (9) in the analyzed cohort compared to the normal population. Moreover, the onset of the long-COVID syndrome and its cardiovascular manifestations was compliant with the onset reported in the literature for the identified genetic diseases, suggesting that COVID-19 could manifest late-onset genetic diseases associated with their appearance. Apart from the 12 positive patients, 57 were healthy carriers of genetic diseases. Analyzing the whole cohort, a statistical correlation between prevalent symptomatology and the gene class was established, suggesting an association between the genetic susceptibility of an individual and the possibility of developing specific long-COVID syndrome symptoms, especially cardiovascular symptoms. Furthermore, 17 genetic variants were identified in CFTR. Finally, we identified genetic variants in IFNAR2 and POLG, supporting their respective involvement in inflammation and mitochondria mechanisms, correlated with long-COVID syndrome according to literature data.

CONCLUSIONS

This study proposed COVID-19 to act as a manifest of underlying late-onset genetic diseases Mendelian associated with carrier status. Moreover, according to our results, mutations in cardiological genes are more present in patients who show cardiological symptoms during the syndrome. This underscores the necessity for cardiological investigation and genetic screening in long-COVID patients to address existing or potential clinical implications.

Metabolomic profiling of amino acid alterations in anorexia nervosa: implications for appetite regulation and therapeutic strategies

OBJECTIVE

Anorexia nervosa (AN), a severe psychiatric disorder primarily affecting adolescents and young adults, is characterized by extreme dietary restriction and distorted body image. While the psychological aspects of AN are well-documented, its intricate metabolic underpinnings remain less explored. We think that metabolomic analysis of hair samples emerges as a promising tool to unveil the complex physiological alterations in AN. This study aims to comprehensively profile amino acid concentrations in hair samples from AN patients and healthy controls. Additionally, it seeks to elucidate potential correlations between amino acid alterations and appetite dysregulation in AN, thereby shedding light on the physiological basis of this debilitating disorder.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 25 AN patients and 25 age-matched healthy controls were recruited for this study. Hair samples were collected, and metabolites were extracted and analyzed using high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Clinical data and biochemical markers were also gathered to characterize participants' demographic and clinical profiles.

RESULTS

Metabolomic analysis revealed significant alterations in amino acid concentrations in AN patients compared to healthy controls. Notably, deficiencies in essential amino acids (EAAs) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) were observed, highlighting potential contributors to muscle wasting and appetite dysregulation. Further analysis identified specific amino acids as robust biomarkers capable of distinguishing AN patients with high sensitivity and specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study unveils the complex metabolic disturbances associated with AN and underscores the role of amino acid dysregulation in the disorder's pathophysiology. The identified biomarkers hold promise for diagnostic screening and potential therapeutic interventions, opening avenues for personalized approaches in AN treatment. Ultimately, this research contributes to our understanding of chronic disorders through the lens of metabolomics and the chemosensory underpinnings of appetite regulation.

Unraveling the complexity of anti-doping analysis: reassessing meldonium detection and doping verdicts in a case study

BACKGROUND

The precision and accuracy of mass spectrometry (MS) made it a fundamental tool in anti-doping analysis. High-resolution (HR) mass spectrometers significantly improved compound identification. This study systematically analyzes data from an athlete (Subject 1) who tested positive for meldonium and compares it with data from a healthy volunteer (Subject 2) to examine the correctness of the doping verdict.

CASE PRESENTATION

The documentation related to Subject 1 was thoroughly processed and analyzed. A study involving a volunteer (Subject 2) replicated Subject 1 regimen and urine sample collection for data alignment with anti-doping results, with Subject 2 reporting not using meldonium. The anti-doping agency's analysis of Subject 1 showed the presence of meldonium at a concentration close to the established cut-off level. However, a closer examination revealed that one specific ion, crucial for meldonium identification, was absent from the mass spectra. Analyzing Subject 2 data, using the same methodology, the absence of the specific ion was confirmed, even though the volunteer did not consume meldonium. The European directive and the method that was validated and cited by the anti-doping agency identified meldonium on at least four specific ions, whereas the anti-doping analysis used only three ions. This discrepancy compromises the specificity of meldonium identification.

CONCLUSIONS

To enhance the analytical methodology, two strategic interventions are suggested: adjusting the meldonium cut-off value and expanding the analysis to include meldonium metabolites. By addressing these avenues, the precision of meldonium detection and doping verdicts can be improved. In conclusion, this study challenges the anti-doping agency's verdict and prompts a reevaluation of meldonium detection methodologies in anti-doping measures.

Genetic variants identified in novel candidate genes for anorexia nervosa and analysis of molecular pathways for diagnostic applications

OBJECTIVE

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a relentless pursuit of thinness, and a distorted body image. Recent research highlights the substantial contribution of genetics to AN's etiology, with genes like BDNF, SLC6A4, and DRD2 implicated. However, a comprehensive genetic test for AN diagnosis is lacking. This study aims to elucidate the biological foundations of AN, examining variants in genes associated with syndromic forms, rare variants in AN patients, and candidate genes from GWAS studies, murine models, or established molecular pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study involved 135 AN patients from Italy, diagnosed based on DSM-V criteria. A specialized Next-Generation Sequencing panel targeting 163 genes was designed. Sequencing was performed on an Illumina MiSeq System, and variants were analyzed using bioinformatics tools. Data on clinical parameters, exercise habits, and AN types were collected.

RESULTS

The AN cohort, predominantly female, exhibited diverse clinical characteristics. Our analysis identified gene variants associated with syndromic forms of AN, such as STRA6, NF1, MAT1A, and ABCC6. Variants were also found in known AN-related genes (CD36, DRD4, GCKR, GHRL, GRIN3B, GPR55, LEPR) and in other 16 candidate genes (A2M, AEBP1, ABHD4, ACBD7, CNTNAP, GFRAL, GRIN2D, LIPE, LMNA, NMU, PDE3B, POMC, RYR1, TNXB, TYK2, VPS13B), highlighting the complexity of AN's genetic landscape. The endocannabinoid and dopamine pathways play crucial roles. Skeletal muscle-related genes and appetite-regulating hormones also revealed potential connections. Adipogenesis-related genes suggest AN's association with subcutaneous adipose tissue deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides comprehensive insights into the genetic underpinnings of AN, emphasizing the importance of multiple pathways. The identified variants contribute.

Serum proteomic profiling reveals potential inflammatory biomarkers in long-COVID patients: a comparative analysis with healthy controls

OBJECTIVE

The highly transmissible severe acute respiratory syndrome-Coronavirus-2 was responsible for the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 mostly affects the respiratory system; however, this infection also affects several other organs. In addition, the sequelae of this disease affect patients for several months after recovery, resulting in long-COVID syndrome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In order to characterize the differences between healthy control individuals and long-COVID patients, proteomic profiling of the serum of both groups was performed by mass spectrometry. The obtained data were analyzed with multivariate and univariate statistical analyses.

RESULTS

Initially, performing a partial latent square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) made it possible to identify thirty-three proteins of interest, which were then subjected to a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Four proteins were identified as potential stand-alone biomarkers: Sirtuin 1, Natriuretic Peptide B, Hemopexin, and Arachidonate 5-Lipoxygenase. Moreover, a multivariate ROC analysis identified a panel of biomarkers composed of Natriuretic Peptide B, Anterior Gradient 2 Protein, Adiponectin, Endothelin Converting Enzyme 1, Interferon Induced Transmembrane Protein 1, Mannose Binding Lectin 2, Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2, Pirin, Prostaglandin Reductase 1 and Cystatin C.

CONCLUSIONS

The identified biomarkers are associated with inflammatory processes, corroborating literature evidence that long-COVID patients develop an inflammatory state that damages many tissues. Nevertheless, these data should be validated in a larger cohort.

Autoantibodies detection in patients affected by autoimmune retinopathies

OBJECTIVE

Autoimmune retinopathies (ARs) encompass a spectrum of immune diseases that are characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against retinal proteins in the bloodstream. These autoantibodies (AAbs) lead to a progressive and sometimes rapid loss of vision. ARs commonly affect subjects over 50 years of age, but also rare cases of kids under 3 years of age have been reported.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study, 47 unrelated Caucasian patients were enrolled. All subjects showed negative cancer diagnoses and negative results in their genetic screenings. We studied 8 confirmed retinal antigens using Western blotting analysis, with α-enolase followed by carbonic anhydrase II being the two most frequently found in the patients' sera.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients were positive (40.4%), thirteen uncertain (27.7%), and fifteen were negative (31.9%). Their gender did not correlate with the presence of AAbs (p=0.409).

CONCLUSIONS

AAbs are responsible for retinal degeneration in some cases, while in others, they contribute to exacerbating the progression of the disease; however, their detection is crucial to reaching a better diagnosis and developing more effective treatments for these conditions. Moreover, finding good biomarkers is important not only for AR monitoring and prognosis, but also for helping with early cancer diagnosis.

The potential preventive role of a dietary supplement containing hydroxytyrosol in COVID-19: a multi-center study

OBJECTIVE

COVID-19 is a disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which emerged as a global pandemic in 2019. Its main symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, and, in severe cases, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and organ failure, which can be life-threatening. Various therapies have been proposed for treating COVID-19, among which antiviral drugs and monoclonal antibodies, but natural molecules have gained attention for their potential antiviral properties against various viral infections, including COVID-19. The use of hydroxytyrosol (HT), a polyphenol from the olive tree possessing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties, has been proposed to reduce COVID-19 infection.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 443 subjects were recruited from four centers, located in Albania, Germany, and Italy (Milan and Trento provinces). The participants were randomly assigned to receive either the dietary supplement containing HT or a placebo for a duration of one month.

RESULTS

Analysis of the study data revealed that, among the subjects who tested positive for COVID-19 during the study, 36% belonged to the group that received the dietary supplement containing HT, while 64% belonged to the placebo group. The difference was statistically significant. These findings suggest that the use of a dietary supplement containing HT may have a possible preventive effect against COVID-19 infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The study's results indicate that the dietary supplement containing HT shows promise as a possible preventive measure against COVID-19 infection. Large-scale, randomized clinical trials and animal studies could be useful to provide more definitive conclusions on HT's possible potential preventive effects against COVID-19, which could potentially supplement existing therapies and contribute to fighting COVID-19 infection.

AKR1C1 and hormone metabolism in lipedema pathogenesis: a computational biology approach

OBJECTIVE

Lipedema is an autosomal dominant genetic disease that mainly affects women. It is characterized by excess deposition of subcutaneous adipose tissue, pain, and anxiety. The genetic and environmental etiology of lipedema is still largely unknown. Although considered a rare disease, this pathology has been suggested to be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema. Steroid hormones seem to be involved in the pathogenesis of lipedema. Indeed, aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C1 (AKR1C1), a gene coding for a protein involved in steroid hormones metabolism, was the first proposed to be correlated with lipedema.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study, we employed a molecular dynamics approach to assess the pathogenicity of AKR1C1 genetic variants found in patients with lipedema. Moreover, we combined information theory and structural bioinformatics to identify AKR1C1 polymorphisms from the gnomAD database that could predispose to the development of lipedema.

RESULTS

Three genetic variants in AKR1C1 found in patients with lipedema were disruptive to the protein's function. Furthermore, eight AKR1C1  variants found in the general population could predispose to the development of lipedema.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study provide evidence that AKR1C1 may be a key gene in lipedema pathogenesis, and that common polymorphisms could predispose to lipedema development.

Autoantibodies in patients with post-COVID syndrome: a possible link with severity?

OBJECTIVE

Coronavirus disease 2019 is an infectious disease associated with the respiratory system caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Right now, an increasing number of patients with Post-COVID Syndrome show, without clear evidence of organ dysfunction, a plethora of severe symptoms, such as fatigue, pain, shortness of breath, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbance. It has already been demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 virus can disrupt the self-tolerance mechanism of the immune system, thus triggering autoimmune conditions. Several studies have recently documented the presence of autoantibodies in the sera of post-COVID patients, but until now, it is unclear whether the persistence of symptoms could be directly correlated with the presence of autoantibodies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study, serum autoantibodies (AAbs) levels against four G protein-coupled receptors in 78 patients with post-COVID syndrome have been analyzed. The AAbs investigated are clustered in two groups: adrenergic receptors (α1 and β2) and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (M3 and M4).

RESULTS

At least one or more AAbs were detected in 60.3% (47/78) of patients diagnosed with post-COVID syndrome, whereas 37.2% (29/78) of patients were positive for all receptors investigated. Interestingly, a strong correlation has been found between AAbs and pain intensity feeling by the patients measured by Visual Analogic Scale. A significant association was also obtained with insomnia and AABS-positive patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of AAbs and their correlation with pathological symptoms seriousness underly the possible role of AAbs as future therapeutic targets.

Omics sciences and precision medicine in pancreas cancer

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, associated with poor prognosis outcomes and late treatment interventions. The pathological nature and extreme tissue heterogeneity of this disease has hampered all efforts to correctly diagnose and treat it. Omics sciences and precision medicine have revolutionized our understanding of pan-creatic cancer, providing a new hope for patients suffering from this devastating disease. By analyzing large-scale biological data sets and developing personalized treatment strategies, researchers and clinicians are working together to improve patient outcomes and ultimately find a cure for pancreatic cancer.

X-linked genodermatoses from diagnosis to tailored therapy

Background

Genodermatoses are rare heterogeneous genetic skin diseases with multiorgan involvement. They severely impair an individual's well-being and can also lead to early death.

Methods

During the progress of this review, we have implemented a targeted research approach, diligently choosing the most relevant and exemplary articles within the subject matter. Our method entailed a systematic exploration of the scientific literature to ensure a compre-hensive and accurate compilation of the available sources.

Results

Among genodermatoses, X-linked ones are of particular importance and should always be considered when pediatric males are affected. Regardless of other syndromic forms without prevalence of skin symptoms, X-linked genodermatoses can be classified in three main groups: keratinization defects, pigmentation defects, and inflammatory skin diseases. Typical examples are dyskeratosis congenita, keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans, hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, chondrodysplasia punctata, hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, incontinentia pigmenti, chronic granulomatous disease, CHILD syndrome and ichthyosis. In this field, genetic diagnosis of the specific disease is important, also considering that numerous clinical trials of orphan drugs and genetic therapies are being proposed for these rare genetic diseases.

Conclusions

Thus, this chapter starts from clinical to molecular testing and ends with a review of all clinical trials on orphan drugs and gene therapy for genodermatoses.

Exploring the Impact of Tobacco Usage on Microbiome Dysbiosis and Associated Health Risks: A Comprehensive Review of Recent Advancements and Future Directions

Abstract

All over the world, tobacco usage is quickly expanding. Though it presents a major health risk and is anticipated to have long-lasting impacts on the public and economic health of the country, its consumers are increasing with every passing day. Tobacco is being used in a variety of ways, with cigarettes being the most popular. Smoking affects the healthy oral, intestinal, and pulmonary microbiomes, often altering the dynamic equilibrium of the diverse bacteria that make up the human microbiome, or "dysbiosis". Smoking-induced dysbiosis can lead to developing conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pul-monary disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and periodontitis. The purpose of the following article is to provide a better and more comprehensive overview of the key areas that the tobacco industry needs to investigate, such as microbiome manipulation, to provide a complete picture of recent advancements in tobacco research while also keeping public safety in mind, and the various diseases linked to tobacco use.

Nutrigenomics: SNPs correlated to physical activity, response to chiropractic treatment, mood and sleep

Abstract

Nutrigenomics, a rapidly evolving field that bridges genetics and nutrition, explores the intricate interactions between an individual's genetic makeup and how they respond to nutrients. At its core, this discipline focuses on investigating Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), the most common genetic variations, which significantly influence a person's physiological status, mood regulation, and sleep patterns, thus playing a pivotal role in a wide range of health out-comes. Through decoding their functional implications, researchers are able to uncover genetic factors that impact physical fitness, pain perception, and susceptibility to mood disorders and sleep disruptions. The integration of nutrigenomics into healthcare holds the promise of transformative interventions that cater to individual well-being. Notable studies shed light on the connection between SNPs and personalized responses to exercise, as well as vulnerability to mood disorders and sleep disturbances. Understanding the intricate interplay between genetics and nutrition informs targeted dietary approaches, molding individual health trajectories. As research advances, the convergence of genetics and nourishment is on the brink of reshaping healthcare, ushering in an era of personalized health management that enhances overall life quality. Nutrigenomics charts a path toward tailored nutritional strategies, fundamentally reshaping our approach to health preservation and preventive measures.

The Role of Olive Tree Polyphenols in the Prevention of COVID-19: A Scoping Review, part 1

Abstract

The global COVID-19 outbreak, started in December 2019, resulted in severe financial losses and extraordinary health crises. Finding a potent and secure medication candidate to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection and its symptoms is still an urgent global need. After reviewing previous studies, olive leaves, being rich in polyphenolic compounds (a large class of bioactive substances naturally found in plants), were proposed as a viable co-therapy supplement to treat and improve clinical symptoms in COVID-19 patients. It has long been known that olive tree polyphenols-such as oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, verbascoside, as well as triterpenoids like maslinic, ursolic, and oleanolic acids-have anti-inflammatory and multitarget antiviral effects on several virus families, and they could be one of the reasons of the beneficial effects of the Mediterranean diet against COVID-19. Thus, olive tree poly-phenols were tested in silico and in vitro for preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection, claiming that they have beneficial effects. Nevertheless, there is still a small number of research studies on this topic. The aim of this scoping review is to provide more information and offer an opinion on the feasibility of using olive tree polyphenols as a springboard for the creation of innovative natural remedies against this viral illness, ultimately planning future relevant studies.

Nutrigenomics: SNPs correlated to minerals' deficiencies

Abstract

Nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics are two interrelated fields that explore the influence of genetic diversity on nutrient responses and function. While nutrigenetics investigates the effects of hereditary ge-netic variations on micronutrient metabolism, nutrigenomics examines the intricate relationship between diet and the genome, studying how genetic variants impact nutrient intake and gene expression. These disciplines offer valuable insights into predicting and managing chronic diseases through personalized nutritional approaches. Nutrigenomics employs cutting-edge genomics technologies to study nutrient-genome interactions. Key principles involve genetic variability among ethnic groups, affecting nutrient bioavailability and metabolism, and the influence of dietary choices based on cultural, geographic, and socioeconomic factors. Polymorphisms, particularly single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), significantly influence gene activity and are associated with specific phenotypes that are related to micronutrient deficiencies. Minerals are inorganic elements, vital for various physiological functions. Understanding the SNPs associated with mineral deficien-cies is crucial for assessing disease risk and developing personalized treatment plans. This knowledge can inform public health interventions, targeted screening programs, educational campaigns, and fortified food products to address deficiencies effectively. Nutrigenomics research has the potential to revolutionize clinical and nutritional practices, providing personalized recommendations, enhancing illness risk assessment, and advancing public health initiatives. Despite the need for further research, harnessing nutrigenomics' potential can lead to more focused and efficient methods for preventing and treating mineral deficiencies.

Nutrigenomics: SNPs Correlated to Lipid and Carbohydrate Metabolism

Background

Nutrigenomics - the study of the interactions between genetics and nutrition - has emerged as a pivotal field in personalized nutrition. Among various genetic variations, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been extensively studied for their probable relationship with metabolic traits.

Methods

Throughout this review, we have employed a targeted research approach, carefully handpicking the most representative and relevant articles on the subject. Our methodology involved a systematic review of the scientific literature to ensure a comprehensive and accurate overview of the available sources.

Results

SNPs have demonstrated a significant influence on lipid metabolism, by impacting genes that encode for enzymes involved in lipid synthesis, transport, and storage. Furthermore, they have the ability to affect enzymes in glycolysis and insulin signaling pathways: in a way, they can influence the risk of type 2 diabetes. Thanks to recent advances in genotyping technologies, we now know numerous SNPs linked to lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. The large-scale studies on this topic have unveiled the potential of personalized dietary recommendations based on an individual's genetic makeup. Personalized nutritional interventions hold promise to mitigate the risk of various chronic diseases; however, translating these scientific insights into actionable dietary guidelines is still challenging.

Conclusions

As the field of nutrigenomics continues to evolve, collaborations between geneticists, nutritionists, and healthcare providers are essential to harness the power of genetic information for improving metabolic health. By unraveling the genetic basis of metabolic responses to diet, this field holds the potential to revolutionize how we approach dietary recommendations and preventive healthcare practices.

Bioetics Issues of Artificial Placenta and Artificial Womb Technology

Abstract

The worldwide infertility crisis and the increase in mortality and morbidity among infants, due to preterm births and associated complications, have stimulated research into artificial placenta (AP) and artificial womb (AW) technology as novel solutions. These technologies mimic the natural environment provided in the mother's womb, using chambers that ensure the supply of nutrients to the fetus and disposal of waste substances through an appropriate mechanism. This review aims to highlight the background of AP and AW technologies, revisit their historical development and proposed applications, and discuss challenges and bioethical and moral issues. Further research is required to investigate any negative effects of these new technologies, and ethical concerns pertaining to the structure and operation of this newly developed technology must be addressed and resolved prior to its introduction to the public sphere.

Nutrigenomics: SNPs correlated to Food Preferences and Susceptibilities

Background

Nutrigenomics explores the intricate interplay between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), food preferences, and susceptibilities.

Methods

This study delves into the influence of SNPs on food sensitivities, allergies, tyramine intolerance, and taste preferences. Genetic factors intricately shape physiological reactions to dietary elements, with polymorphisms contributing to diverse sensitivities and immune responses.

Results

Tyramine intolerance, arising from metabolic inefficiencies, unveils genetic markers exerting influence on enzyme function. SNPs transcend genetic diversity by exerting substantial impact on food sensitivities/allergies, with specific variants correlating to heightened susceptibilities. Genes accountable for digesting food components play pivotal roles. Given the rising prevalence of food sensitivities/allergies, understanding genetic foundations becomes paramount. In the realm of taste and food preferences, SNPs sculpt perception and choice, yielding variances in taste perception and preferences for sweetness, bitterness, and umami. This genetic medley extends its reach to encompass wider health implications.

Conclusions

In this review article, we have focused on how polymorphisms wield significant sway over physiological responses, sensitivities, and dietary inclinations. Unraveling these intricate relationships illuminates the path to personalized nutrition, potentially revolutionizing tailored recommendations and interventions.

Omics sciences and precision medicine in lung cancer

Abstract

Lung cancer is a complex disease, with a wide range of genetic alterations and clinical presentations. Understanding the natural and clinical history of the disease is crucial for developing effective diagnostic and treatment strategies. Omics approaches, such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, have emerged as powerful tools for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying lung cancer and for identifying novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. These approaches enable researchers to examine the entire genome, transcriptome, proteome, or metabolome of a cell or tissue, providing a comprehensive view of the biological processes involved in lung cancer development and progression. Targeted therapies that address specific genetic mutations and pathways hold promise for improving the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Omics sciences and precision medicine in sarcoma

Background

Sarcomas are a relatively rare but diverse group of cancers that typically develop in the mesenchymal cells of bones and soft tissues. Occurring in more than 70 subtypes, sarcomas have broad histological presentations, posing significant challenges of prognosis and treatment. Modern multi-omics studies, which include genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and micro-biomics, are vital to understand the underlying mechanisms of sarcoma development and progression, identify molecular biomarkers for early detection, develop personalized treatment plans, and discover drug resistance mechanisms in sarcomas to upsurge the survival rate.

Aim

This study aims to highlight the genetic risk factors responsible for sarcoma-genesis, and to present a comprehensive review of multi-omics studies about sarcoma.

Methods

Extensive literature research was undertaken using reliable and authentic medical journals, e-books, and online cancer research databases. Mendelian inheritance in man database (OMIM) was explored to study particular genes and their loci that are responsible to cause various sarcomas.

Result

This in-depth research led to the finding out that omics studies provide a more comprehensive understanding of underlying molecular mechanisms of sarcomas. Through genomics, we can reveal genetic alterations that predispose to sarcoma, like mutation in TP53, NF1, and so on. Pharmacogenomics enable us to find molecular targets for specific drugs. Whereas, proteomic and metabolomic studies provide insights into the biological pathways involved in sarcoma development and progression.

Conclusion

Future advancements in omics sciences for sarcoma are on the cutting-edge of defining precision treatment plans and improved resilience of sarcoma patients.

Characterization of somatic mutations in the pathogenesis of lipedema

Background

Lipedema, a complex and enigmatic adipose tissue disorder, remains poorly understood despite its significant impact on the patients' quality of life. Genetic investigations have uncovered potential contributors to its pathogenesis, including somatic mutations, which are nonheritable genetic alterations that can play a pivotal role in the development of this disease.

Aim

This review aims to elucidate the role of somatic mutations in the etiology of lipedema by examining their implications in adipose tissue biology, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction.

Results

Studies focusing on leukocyte clones, genetic alterations like TET2 and DNMT3A, and the intricate interplay between adipose tissue and other organs have shed light on the underlying mechanisms driving lipedema. From the study of the scientific literature, mutations to genes correlated to three main pathways could be involved in the somatic development of lipedema: genes related to mitochondrial activity, genes related to localized disorders of subcutaneous adipose tissue, and genes of leukocyte clones.

Conclusions

The insights gained from these diverse studies converge to highlight the complex genetic underpinnings of lipedema and offer potential avenues for therapeutic interventions targeting somatic mutations to alleviate the burden of this condition on affected individuals.

Human Cloning: Biology, Ethics, and Social Implications

Abstract

This scholarly article delves into the multifaceted domains of human cloning, encompassing its biological underpinnings, ethical dimensions, and broader societal implications. The exposition commences with a succinct historical and contextual overview of human cloning, segueing into an in-depth exploration of its biological intri-cacies. Central to this biological scrutiny is a comprehensive analysis of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and its assorted iterations. The accomplishments and discoveries in cloning technology, such as successful animal cloning operations and advances in the efficiency and viability of cloned embryos, are reviewed. Future improvements, such as reprogramming procedures and gene editing technology, are also discussed. The discourse extends to ethical quandaries intrinsic to human cloning, entailing an extensive contemplation of values such as human dignity, autonomy, and safety. Furthermore, the ramifications of human cloning on a societal plane are subjected to scrutiny, with a dedicated emphasis on ramifications encompassing personal identity, kinship connections, and the fundamental notion of maternity. Culminating the analysis is a reiteration of the imperative to develop and govern human cloning technology judiciously and conscientiously. Finally, it discusses several ethical and practical issues, such as safety concerns, the possibility of exploitation, and the erosion of human dignity, and emphasizes the significance of carefully considering these issues.

Omics sciences and precision medicine in thyroid cancer

Background

Thyroid cancer, a heterogeneous disease originating from the thyroid gland, stands as the predominant endocrine malignan-cy worldwide. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, some patients still experience recurrence and mortality, which highlights the need for more personalized approaches to treatment. Omics sciences, encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, offer a high-throughput and impartial methodology for investigating the molecular signatures of thyroid cancer.

Methods

In the course of this review, we have adopted a focu-sed research strategy, meticulously selecting the most pertinent and emblematic articles related to the topic. Our methodology included a systematic examination of the scientific literature to guarantee a thorough and precise synthesis of the existing sources.

Results

These techniques enable the identification of molecular markers that can aid in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection. As an illustration, through genomics studies, numerous genetic alterations commonly discovered in thyroid cancer have been identified, such as mutations in the BRAF and RAS genes. Through transcriptomics studies, distinctively expressed genes in thyroid cancer have been uncovered, playing roles in diverse biological processes, including cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. These genes can serve as potential targets for novel therapies. Proteomics studies have unveiled differentially expressed proteins intricately involved in thyroid cancer pathogenesis, presenting promising biomarkers for early detection and disease progression monitoring. Metabolomics studies have identified alterations in metabolic pathways linked to thyroid cancer, offering promising avenues for potential therapeutic targets.

Conclusions

Precision medicine in thyroid cancer involves the integration of omics sciences with clinical data to develop personalized treatment plans for patients. Employing targeted therapies guided by molecular markers has exhibited promising outcomes in enhancing the prognosis of thyroid cancer patients. Notably, those with advanced hyroid cancer carrying BRAF mutations have displayed substantial responses to specific targeted therapies, such as vemurafenib and dabrafenib.

In Memory of Professor Derek Pheby

Abstract

Professor Derek Pheby's passing in November 2022 marked a profound loss for the scientific community. Professor Derek Pheby, a stalwart figure in the fields of autoimmune diseases and bioethics, was known for his dedication to scientific research and patients' support, particularly for those affected by paraneoplastic autoimmune syndromes. Professor Pheby made significant contributions to research, especially about Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). His leadership of the ME Biobank and scientific coordination of EUROMENE demonstrated his commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering international collaborations. Professor Pheby's scientific work addressed various aspects of ME/CFS, from physician education to patient needs, the development of a post-mortem tissue bank, and effective treatments. Beyond his medical career, Professor Pheby was a crucial member of the Independent Ethics Committee of MAGI, he was a poet, humanitarian, and advocate for child protection. His generosity and boundless spirit left an enduring legacy, fostering innovative research in the pursuit of combating autoimmune diseases.

Reduction of nitrosamines in cigarette smoke vapors through a filter functionalized with polyphenols from olive tree

Objective

In our study, we present the development of a novel cigarette filter enriched with polyphenols, with a particular focus on hydroxytyrosol extracted from olive sources. Our objective was to trap the presence of carcinogens in cigarette smoke by chemically modifying the filter surface.

Materials and methods

To evaluate the filtration efficiency of the newly developed filter, we employed an automated Stain Pattern technique, enabling non-intrusive measurement of behavioral vent blocking. The surface modification of cigarette filters was meticulously carried out to target the reduction of nitrosamines formed during combustion.

Results

Our extensive investigation underscores the potential of functionalizing cigarette filters using olive polyphenols, in particular hydroxytyrosol to mitigate the formation of harmful compounds, particularly nitrosamines, during smoking. Functionalized filters exhibited remarkable filtering efficiency, as evidenced by a capture factor (f=2.9×103) for two layers.

Conclusions

This innovative approach has the capacity to revolutionize the utilization of filters in commercial cigarettes, significantly reducing consumers' exposure to toxic chemicals. Our research demonstrates that hydroxytyrosol-functionalized cigarette filters can effectively remove noxious substances like nitrosamines, offering a promising avenue for enhancing public health. Further in-depth research is essential to assess the protective impact of hydroxytyrosol-functionalized filters cigarettes, ensuring their potential to safeguard consumers' health effectively.

Nutrigenomics: SNPs correlated to vitamins' deficiencies

Abstract

Nutrients can influence the physiological processes in the body by interacting with molecular systems. Including nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics, nutritional genomics focuses on how bio-active food components interact with the genome. The purpose of this study is to clarify how nutrigenomics and vitamin dietary deficits relate to one another. Food tolerances among human sub-populations are known to vary due to genetic variation, which may also affect dietary needs. This raises the prospect of tailoring a person's nutritional intake for optimum health and illness prevention, based on their unique genome. To better understand the interplay between genes and nutrients and to plan tailored weight loss, nutrigenetic testing may soon become a key approach.

Olive tree polyphenols as effective and sustainable grain preservatives

Abstract

Whole grains play a crucial role in the human diet. Despite being cultivated in distinct regions, they are shipped everywhere, therefore making biosafety and security essential throughout the grain industry, from harvest to distribution. Phytopathogens, which have an impact on crop yield, induce grain spoiling and reduce grain quality in a number of ways, providing a constant danger to crop storage and distribution. Chemical control approaches, such as the use of pesticides and fungicides, are detrimental to the environment and hazardous to human health. The development of alternative, environmentally friendly, and generally acceptable solutions to ensure increased grain yield, biosafety, and quality during storage is crucial in order to guarantee sufficient food and feed supplies. As a means of self-defense against microbial infection and spoilage, plant matrices feature antimicrobial natural chemicals, which have led to their widespread usage as food preservatives in recent decades. Olive tree extracts, known for their high polyphenol content, have been widely used in the food preservation industry with great success, and are highly welcomed by people all over the world. In addition to their well-known health advantages, polyphenols are a valuable plant secondary metabolite because of their great antibacterial capabilities as natural preservatives. This article discusses the promising usage of polyphenols from olive trees as a natural alternative preservative, while also highlighting the future of olive eaves in the food industry.

Nutrigenomics: SNPs correlated to detoxification, antioxidant capacity and longevity

Abstract

Nutritional genomics, also known as nutrigenomics, is the study of how a person's diet and genes interact with each other. The field of nutrigenomics aims to explain how common nutrients, food additives and preservatives can change the body's genetic balance towards either health or sickness. This study reviews the effects of SNPs on detoxification, antioxidant capacity, and longevity. SNPs are mutations that only change one nucleotide at a specific site in the DNA. Specific SNPs have been associated to a variety of biological processes, including detoxification, antioxidant capacity, and longevity. This article mainly focuses on the following genes: SOD2, AS3MT, CYP1A2, and ADO-RA2A (detoxification); LEPR, TCF7L2, KCNJ11, AMY1, and UCP3 (antioxidant capacity); FOXO3 and BPIFB4 (longevity). This review underlines that many genes-among which FOXO3, TCF7L2, LEPR, CYP1A2, ADORA2A, and SOD2-have a unique effect on a person's health, susceptibility to disease, and general well-being. Due to their important roles in numerous biological processes and their implications for health, these genes have undergone intensive research. Examining the SNPs in these genes can provide insight into how genetic variants affect individuals' responses to their environment, their likelihood of developing certain diseases, and their general state of health.

Omics sciences and precision medicine in melanoma

Background

This article provides an overview of the application of omics sciences in melanoma research. The name omics sciences refers to the large-scale analysis of biological molecules like DNA, RNA, proteins, and metabolites.

Methods

In the course of this review, we have adopted a focu-sed research strategy, meticulously selecting the most pertinent and emblematic articles related to the topic. Our methodology included a systematic examination of the scientific literature to guarantee a thorough and precise synthesis of the existing sources.

Results

With the advent of high-throughput technologies, omics have become an essential tool for understanding the complexity of melanoma. In this article, we discuss the different omics approaches used in melanoma research, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. We also highlight the major findings and insights gained from these studies, including the identification of new therapeutic targets and the development of biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future directions in omics-based melanoma research, including the integration of multiple omics data and the development of personalized medicine approaches.

Conclusions

Overall, this article emphasizes the importance of omics science in advancing our understanding of melanoma and its potential for improving patient outcomes.

Targeting Mast Cells: Sodium Cromoglycate as a Possible Treatment of Lipedema

Background

Mast cells are immune cells that mediate hypersensi-tivity and allergic reactions in the body, secreting histamine and other inflammatory molecules. They have been associated with different inflammatory conditions such as obesity and other adipose tissue di-sorders. Lipedema is a chronic disease characterized by an abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue on the legs and arms, pain, and other symptoms. Mast cells may play a role in the pathology of lipedema.

Objective

Pilot study to determine levels of histamine and its metabolites in lipedema subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) biopsy samples, and to test sodium cromoglycate for the treatment of mast cells in women with lipedema.

Methods

Biopsies from lipedema and control SAT were collected and analyzed histologically for the presence of mast cells. Mass spec-trometry was used to measure the levels of histamine, a key marker of mast cells, and its metabolites in SAT in women with lipedema and controls, and after a group of women with lipedema were administered oral and topical doses of sodium cromoglycate for two weeks.

Results

Histological examination of biopsies from lipedema patients confirmed the presence of mast cells. Metabolomic analysis revealed high levels of histamine and its metabolites in samples from women with lipedema compared to controls. Following a two-week treatment period, lipedema tissue samples exhibited reduced levels of histamine, suggesting a reduction of mast cell activity.

Conclusion

Sodium cromoglycate has the ability to stabilize mast cells and reduce histamine levels in lipedema patients, which could be useful in lowering the symptoms of lipedema.

Demand-Side Factors in Maternal Health Outcomes: Evidence from a Community Health Worker Programme in Uganda

While community health workers (CHWs) are a core feature of many low-resource healthcare systems, evidence on both their health impacts and the mechanisms behind these impacts remains limited. Using a difference-in-differences design with a control and treatment group, this study evaluated a CHW programme in southwestern Uganda aimed at improving maternal health outcomes. We found relatively little evidence of an overall programme effect on health behaviours, including antenatal care attendance and delivery under skilled supervision. Analysis of heterogeneity by gestational age at first antenatal visit - which should have modulated exposure to the intervention - provided suggestive evidence that treatment effects varied predictably with gestational age. Altogether, the absence of strong programme effects may have been due to suboptimal performance by CHWs, thus highlighting the importance of studying and instituting appropriate monitoring and incentive schemes for such programmes. Additionally, in contrast to the weak treatment effect findings, analysis of the entire study sample between the pre- and post-intervention periods showed large improvements in healthcare-seeking behaviour across both the treatment and control groups. These changes may have arisen from concurrent supply-side health facility improvements affecting the entire study population, spillover effects from the CHWs, or background health trends.

Caregivers Systematically Overestimate Their Child's Height-for-Age Relative to Other Children in Rural Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Stunting affects one-quarter of children <5 y of age, yet little is known about the accuracy of caregivers' perceptions regarding their child's linear growth. Most existing quantitative research on this topic has been conducted in high-income countries and has examined perceptions of children's weight rather than height.

OBJECTIVES

In rural Ethiopia where linear growth faltering is highly prevalent, this study aimed to better understand how caregivers perceive their child's growth. The objectives of this analysis were to 1) assess caregivers' perceptions of their child's height; 2) investigate whether there is a discrepancy between a child's actual height and caregivers' perceptions of their child's height; and 3) examine the factors that influence discrepancies in estimating a child's height (secondary outcomes), including the role of the average height in the community (primary outcome).

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from 808 woman caregivers of children ages 6-35 mo in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. We assessed caregivers' rankings (from 1 to 10) of their child's height relative to other children their age in their village. We then converted these rankings to z scores based on an age- and region-specific distribution in order to calculate their difference with the child's actual height-for-age z score and to determine the degree of overestimation. Lastly, we used multivariate log Poisson regressions to determine factors associated with overestimating a child's height.

RESULTS

Forty-three percent of caregivers scored their child's height as the median; 37% overestimated their child's height relative to other children. Regression results showed caregivers who were poorer, and had children who were female, older, and stunted, were more likely to overestimate.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that caregivers of young children in Oromia systematically overestimated their children's height, which could adversely affect child health if these misperceptions translate to insufficient care-seeking behavior or feeding choices for children.

Effect of a dietary supplement on the reduction of lymphedema-progression in mouse tail-cut model

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to evaluate in vivo, in a mouse tail model of lymphedema, the effects of a dietary supplement, Garlive®, based on hydroxytyrosol from olive leaves, spermidine from rice seeds, hesperidin from citrus fruits and vitamin A. Hydroxytyrosol has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and inhibits leukotriene B4 generation; spermidine is able to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators; hesperidin inhibits the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines: IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10; vitamin A deficiency was shown to induce inflammation and aggravate existing inflammatory states, whereas supplementation with vitamin A could ameliorate inflammation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The active compounds were included in tablets: 250 mg of olive leaf extract titrated in 10% hydroxytyrosol, 200 mg of citrus fruits extract titrated in 60% hesperidin, 10 mg of rice (Oryza sativa) seeds extract titrated in 1% spermidine and 0.8 mg of vitamin A. Mice of an inbred group were randomly selected and divided in the control group and drug-treated group. The wound necessary for lymphedema generation was made on the tail of each mice 1 cm below the base of the trunk.

RESULTS

After surgical intervention, there was a gradual increase in the circumference of both ends of the wound. The control group showed higher increase of tail volume than the drug-treated group. The differences in tail swelling between the control group and the drug-treated group were significantly different. The peak of swelling was anticipated to the 6th day in the drug-treated group, whereas in the control group the peak was reached later on.

CONCLUSIONS

The tested drug prevented the induction of swelling from day 5th of wound creation and decreased the duration of swelling, favoring the wound healing.

Behavioural insights to support increased consumption of quality protein maize by young children: a cluster randomised trial in Ethiopia

Introduction

Biofortified crops have tremendous potential to improve child nutrition. We tested whether complementing the distribution of quality protein maize (QPM) with a package of interventions informed by behavioural insights could support greater consumption of QPM by young children and translate into improved growth.

Methods

We conducted a cluster-randomised trial in Oromia, Ethiopia. Clusters of households with a child between 6 and 35 months were randomised into an arm receiving QPM seed only (320 households, 203 clusters) or an arm receiving QPM seed and a child consumption targeting intervention (290 households, 183 clusters). The intervention package included tools to help caregivers keep QPM separate from conventional maize and to earmark QPM specifically for child consumption, as well as encouragement regarding cooking QPM specifically for young children. We analysed the impact of the intervention on food storage, cooking and consumption behaviours and on anthropometric measures (weight-for-age, height-for-age z scores).

Results

The consumption targeting intervention increased the probability of child consumption of QPM in the past week by 17.3 percentage points (pp) (95% CI 9.4 pp to 25.1 pp; p<0.01), increased the probability that QPM flour was stored separately from conventional maize by 46.5 pp (95% CI 38.3 pp to 54.7 pp; p<0.01) and increased the probability that caregivers cooked QPM specifically for young children in the past week by 14.4 pp (95% CI 7.9 pp to 20.9 pp; p<0.01). These effects persisted, but were attenuated, 10 months postintervention. No significant effects on anthropometric outcomes were found.

Conclusions

Enhancing the distribution of new, biofortified crop varieties with a consumption targeting campaign can change storage, cooking and consumption behaviours. However, these improved behaviours did not translate into increased growth in this setting.

Trial registration number

NCT02710760 and AEARCTR0000786.

Associations among High-Quality Protein and Energy Intake, Serum Transthyretin, Serum Amino Acids and Linear Growth of Children in Ethiopia

Limited evidence is available on the associations of high-quality protein and energy intake, serum transthyretin (TTR), serum amino acids and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) with linear growth of young children. Data collected during the baseline of a randomized control trial involving rural Ethiopian children aged 6⁻35 months (n = 873) were analyzed to evaluate the associations among height/length-for-age z-scores, dietary intakes, and these biomarkers (i.e., serum level of TTR, IGF-1, tryptophan and lysine, and inflammation). The prevalence of stunting was higher for children >23 months (38%) than ≤23 months (25%). The prevalence of inflammation was 35% and of intestinal parasites 48%. Three-quarters of the children were energy deficient, and stunted children had lower daily energy intake that non-stunted children (p < 0.05). Intakes of tryptophan, protein, and energy, and serum levels of tryptophan and IGF-1 were positively correlated with the linear growth of children. Controlling for inflammation, intestinal parasites, and sociodemographic characteristics, daily tryptophan (b = 0.01, p = 0.001), protein (b = 0.01, p = 0.01) and energy (b = 0.0003, p = 0.04) intakes and serum TTR (b = 2.58, p = 0.04) and IGF-1 (b = 0.01, p = 0.003) were positively associated with linear growth of children. Linear growth failure in Ethiopian children is likely associated with low quality protein intake and inadequate energy intake. Nutrition programs that emphasize improved protein quantity and quality and energy intake may enhance the linear growth of young children and need to be further investigated in longitudinal and interventional studies.

Personality Traits and Performance Contracts: Evidence from a Field Experiment among Maternity Care Providers in India

We study how agents respond to performance incentives according to key personality traits (conscientiousness and neuroticism) through a field experiment offering financial incentives for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes to rural Indian doctors. More conscientious providers performed better--but improved less--under performance incentives. The effect of the performance incentives was also smaller for providers with higher levels of neuroticism. Our results contribute to a growing body of empirical research on heterogeneous responses to incentives and have implications for worker selection.

Drinking water insecurity: water quality and access in coastal south-western Bangladesh

National drinking water assessments for Bangladesh do not reflect local variability, or temporal differences. This paper reports on the findings of an interdisciplinary investigation of drinking water insecurity in a rural coastal south-western Bangladesh. Drinking water quality is assessed by comparison of locally measured concentrations to national levels and water quality criteria; resident's access to potable water and their perceptions are based on local social surveys. Residents in the study area use groundwater far less than the national average; salinity and local rainwater scarcity necessitates the use of multiple water sources throughout the year. Groundwater concentrations of arsenic and specific conductivity (SpC) were greater than surface water (pond) concentrations; there was no statistically significant seasonal difference in mean concentrations in groundwater, but there was for ponds, with arsenic higher in the dry season. Average arsenic concentrations in local water drinking were 2-4 times times the national average. All of the local groundwater samples exceeded the Bangladesh guidance for SpC, although the majority of residents surveyed did not perceive their water as having a 'bad' or 'salty' taste.