Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Role of Estrogen and Estrogen Receptor in GH-Secreting Adenomas

Acromegaly is a rare disease with several systemic complications that may lead to increased overall morbidity and mortality. Despite several available treatments, ranging from transsphenoidal resection of GH-producing adenomas to different medical therapies, complete hormonal control is not achieved in some cases. Some decades ago, estrogens were first used to treat acromegaly, resulting in a significant decrease in IGF1 levels. However, due to the consequent side effects of the high dose utilized, this treatment was later abandoned. The evidence that estrogens are able to blunt GH activity also derives from the evidence that women with GH deficiency taking oral estro-progestins pills need higher doses of GH replacement therapy. In recent years, the role of estrogens and Selective Estrogens Receptor Modulators (SERMs) in acromegaly treatment has been re-evaluated, especially considering poor control of the disease under first- and second-line medical treatment. In this review, we analyze the state of the art concerning the impact of estrogen and SERMs on the GH/IGF1 axis, focusing on molecular pathways and the possible implications for acromegaly treatment.
Ectopically Expressed Meiosis-Specific Cancer Testis Antigen HORMAD1 Promotes Genomic Instability in Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Genomic instability is a prominent hallmark of cancer, however the mechanisms that drive and sustain this process remain elusive. Research demonstrates that numerous cancers with increased levels of genomic instability ectopically express meiosis-specific genes and undergo meiomitosis, the clash of mitotic and meiotic processes. These meiotic genes may represent novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of cancer. We studied the relationship between the expression of the meiosis protein HORMAD1 and genomic instability in squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). First, we assessed markers of DNA damage and genomic instability following knockdown and overexpression of HORMAD1 in different cell lines representing SCCs and epithelial cancers. shRNA-mediated depletion of HORMAD1 expression resulted in increased genomic instability, DNA damage, increased sensitivity to etoposide, and decreased expression of DNA damage response/repair genes. Conversely, overexpression of HORMAD1 exhibited protective effects leading to decreased DNA damage, enhanced survival and decreased sensitivity to etoposide. Furthermore, we identified a meiotic molecular pathway that regulates HORMAD1 expression by targeting the upstream meiosis transcription factor STRA8. Our results highlight a specific relationship between HORMAD1 and genomic instability in SCCs, suggesting that selectively inhibiting HORMAD1, possibly, through STRA8 signaling, may provide a new paradigm of treatment options for HORMAD1-expressing SCCs.
Microglia and Astroglia—The Potential Role in Neuroinflammation Induced by Pre- and Neonatal Exposure to Lead (Pb)

Neuroinflammation is one of the postulated mechanisms for Pb neurotoxicity. However, the exact molecular mechanisms responsible for its pro-inflammatory effect are not fully elucidated. In this study, we examined the role of glial cells in neuroinflammation induced by Pb exposure. We investigated how microglia, a type of glial cell, responded to the changes caused by perinatal exposure to Pb by measuring the expression of Iba1 at the mRNA and protein levels. To assess the state of microglia, we analyzed the mRNA levels of specific markers associated with the cytotoxic M1 phenotype (Il1b, Il6, and Tnfa) and the cytoprotective M2 phenotype (Arg1, Chi3l1, Mrc1, Fcgr1a, Sphk1, and Tgfb1). Additionally, we measured the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). To assess the reactivity and functionality status of astrocytes, we analyzed the GFAP (mRNA expression and protein concentration) as well as glutamine synthase (GS) protein level and activity. Using an electron microscope, we assessed ultrastructural abnormalities in the examined brain structures (forebrain cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus). In addition, we measured the mRNA levels of Cxcl1 and Cxcl2, and their receptor, Cxcr2. Our data showed that perinatal exposure to Pb at low doses affected both microglia and astrocyte cells’ status (their mobilization, activation, function, and changes in gene expression profile) in a brain-structure-specific manner. The results suggest that both microglia and astrocytes represent a potential target for Pb neurotoxicity, thus being key mediators of neuroinflammation and further neuropathology evoked by Pb poisoning during perinatal brain development.
The Interplay between Immune and Metabolic Pathways in Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a significant health problem worldwide, affecting an estimated 10% of the global population. Kidney disease encompasses a diverse group of disorders that vary in their underlying pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and outcomes. These disorders include acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD), glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, polycystic kidney disease, diabetic kidney disease, and many others. Despite their distinct etiologies, these disorders share a common feature of immune system dysregulation and metabolic disturbances. The immune system and metabolic pathways are intimately connected and interact to modulate the pathogenesis of kidney diseases. The dysregulation of immune responses in kidney diseases includes a complex interplay between various immune cell types, including resident and infiltrating immune cells, cytokines, chemokines, and complement factors. These immune factors can trigger and perpetuate kidney inflammation, causing renal tissue injury and progressive fibrosis. In addition, metabolic pathways play critical roles in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases, including glucose and lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered nutrient sensing. Dysregulation of these metabolic pathways contributes to the progression of kidney disease by inducing renal tubular injury, apoptosis, and fibrosis. Recent studies have provided insights into the intricate interplay between immune and metabolic pathways in kidney diseases, revealing novel therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of kidney diseases. Potential therapeutic strategies include modulating immune responses through targeting key immune factors or inhibiting pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, improving mitochondrial function, and targeting nutrient-sensing pathways, such as mTOR, AMPK, and SIRT1. This review highlights the importance of the interplay between immune and metabolic pathways in kidney diseases and the potential therapeutic implications of targeting these pathways.
Effects of Dietary Bioactive Lipid Compounds of Acacia nilotica Bark on Productive Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Antimicrobial Activities of Growing Rabbits under Hot Climatic Conditions

Simple Summary Feeding strategies to increase production efficiency using novel feed additives are necessary for sustainable rabbit production. This study aims to use Acacia nilotica bark bioactive lipid compounds (ANBBLCs) as novel feed additives in the growing rabbit diet for sustainable production and to improve antioxidant status and antibacterial activity during hot climatic conditions. ANBBLCs up to 150 mg/kg can be used as an efficient new feed additive to increase growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidant status, as well as the antibacterial activity of growing rabbits under hot climatic conditions. Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dietary Acacia nilotica bark bioactive lipid compounds (ANBBLCs) as novel feed additives on the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidants, and antimicrobial activities of growing male rabbits. A total of 100 California male weanling rabbits aged 35 days were divided into four nutritional treatments, each of which contained ANBBLCs at concentrations of 0 (control group), 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg diet (n = 25 per treatment, each replication consisting of one animal). The average body weight of the animals was 613 ± 14 g. The experiments lasted for 56 days. Dietary ANBBLC levels linearly improved (p < 0.05) the body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of rabbits. Furthermore, with increasing concentrations of ANBBLCs, the total antioxidant capacity of blood and liver tissue was linearly (p < 0.05) enhanced. Lactobacillus increased and Staphylococcus decreased (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control group when ANBBLC levels were added to the diets of rabbits. Rabbit diets supplemented with ANBBLCs increased dressing percentages and decreased abdominal fat. This study shows that ANBBLCs can be used as a feed additive to enhance the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of growing rabbits.
A theoretical exploration of the influencing factors for surface potential

Although it has been widely used to probe the interfacial property, dynamics, and reactivity, the surface potential remains intractable for directly being measured, especially for charged particles in aqueous solutions. This paper presents that the surface potential is strongly dependent on the Hofmeister effect, and the theory including ion polarization and ionic correlation shows significant improvement compared with the classical theory. Ion polarization causes a strong Hofmeister effect and further dramatic decrease to surface potential, especially at low concentration; in contrast, ionic correlation that is closely associated with potential decay distance overestimates surface potential and plays an increasing role at higher ionic concentrations. Contributions of ion polarization and ionic correlation are respectively assessed, and a critical point is detected where their contributions can be exactly counteracted. Ionic correlation can be almost neglected at low ionic concentrations, while ion polarization, albeit less important at high concentrations, should be considered across the entire concentration range. The results thus obtained are applicable to other interfacial processes.
Knowledge, Perceptions and Attitudes of eHealth and Health Technology among Nursing Students from Gauteng Province, South Africa

The use of technology in healthcare settings was identified as a crucial priority in many countries to provide quality healthcare services. eHealth or digital health technology is found to have a positive influence on improving the efficiency and quality of healthcare services. It has been proven to provide opportunities to strengthen health systems. This study aims to assess eHealth literacy, pre-existing knowledge and the nursing students’ perceptions and attitudes towards eHealth. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional survey was used in this study. The population of this study comprised 266 nursing students in the undergraduate programme of the Department of Nursing, among which 244 consented to participate in the study. A standardised and self-administered tool was utilised to collect data from nursing students across the four levels of study. Results showed that students in level four exhibit high scores of knowledge in the use of eLearning technology as compared to first-entry university nursing students. Nursing students used the internet frequently, especially to access social media and search for health and medical information for their study. Attitudes towards eHealth and technology were also found to be positive. The study recommends that digital literacy should be enhanced in the nursing education curriculum in other to further strengthen the knowledge and skills towards the use of eHealth and health technology among nursing students.
A Novel Edible Coating Produced from a Wheat Gluten, Pistacia vera L. Resin, and Essential Oil Blend: Antimicrobial Effects and Sensory Properties on Chicken Breast Fillets

Antimicrobial edible coatings can eliminate the risk of pathogen contamination on the surface of poultry products during storage. In this study, an edible coating (EC) based on wheat gluten, Pistacia vera L. tree resin (PVR), and the essential oil (EO) of PVR was applied on chicken breast fillets (CBF) by a dipping method to prevent the growth of Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes. The samples were packed in foam trays wrapped with low-density polyethylene stretch film and stored at 8 °C for 12 days to observe the antimicrobial effects and sensory properties. The total bacteria count (TBC), L. monocytogenes, and S. Typhimurium were recorded during storage. The samples coated with EC, containing 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2% v/v EO (ECEO), showed significant decreases in microbial growth compared to the control samples. The growth of TBC, L. monocytogenes, and S. Typhimurium was suppressed by 4.6, 3.2, and 1.6 logs, respectively, at the end of 12 days on the samples coated with ECEO (2%) compared to the uncoated controls (p < 0.05). Coating with ECEO (2%) also preserved the appearance, smell, and general acceptance parameters better than uncoated raw chicken (p < 0.05) on the fifth day of storage. In grilled chicken samples, ECEO (2%) did not significantly change the appearance, smell, and texture (p > 0.05) but increased the taste and general acceptance scores. Therefore, ECEO (2%) can be a feasible and reliable alternative to preserve CBFs without adversely affecting their sensory properties.
Deregulated microRNAs Involved in Prostate Cancer Aggressiveness and Treatment Resistance Mechanisms

Simple Summary Accumulating studies have highlighted the critical roles of microRNAs in tumorigenesis and cancer treatment responses. Here, we systematically review the scientific publications describing the roles of microRNAs in the development and progression of prostate cancer. Numerous studies have demonstrated that microRNAs target and regulate critical genes involved in prostate cancer aggressiveness and drug resistance. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying microRNA involvement in the advanced and treatment-resistant prostate cancers remain unclear. This review aims to highlight the current understanding and knowledge gap related to the deregulation of microRNAs in prostate cancer diseases. Furthermore, we summarize the promising progress on the development of microRNA-based diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers and therapies for prostate cancer. Abstract Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among American men. Complex genetic and epigenetic mechanisms are involved in the development and progression of PCa. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short noncoding RNAs that regulate protein expression at the post-transcriptional level by targeting mRNAs for degradation or inhibiting protein translation. In the past two decades, the field of miRNA research has rapidly expanded, and emerging evidence has revealed miRNA dysfunction to be an important epigenetic mechanism underlying a wide range of diseases, including cancers. This review article focuses on understanding the functional roles and molecular mechanisms of deregulated miRNAs in PCa aggressiveness and drug resistance based on the existing literature. Specifically, the miRNAs differentially expressed (upregulated or downregulated) in PCa vs. normal tissues, advanced vs. low-grade PCa, and treatment-responsive vs. non-responsive PCa are discussed. In particular, the oncogenic and tumor-suppressive miRNAs involved in the regulation of (1) the synthesis of the androgen receptor (AR) and its AR-V7 splice variant, (2) PTEN expression and PTEN-mediated signaling, (3) RNA splicing mechanisms, (4) chemo- and hormone-therapy resistance, and (5) racial disparities in PCa are discussed and summarized. We further provide an overview of the current advances and challenges of miRNA-based biomarkers and therapeutics in clinical practice for PCa diagnosis/prognosis and treatment.
Efficiency of Biological Typing Methods in Maize Hybrid Genetic Purity Estimation

A high level of genetic purity in crop varieties must be achieved and maintained for agronomic performance, encouraging investment and innovation in plant breeding and ensuring that the improvements in productivity and quality imparted by breeders are delivered to the consumer. Since the success of hybrid seed production is dependent upon the genetic purity of the parental lines, in this study, the experimental F1exp maize hybrid and its parental inbreeds were used as a model system to examine the discriminative power of morphological, biochemical and SSR markers for seed purity assay. The highest number of off-type plants was estimated by morphological markers. According to the comparison of prolamins and albumins banding patterns of parental and derived F1exp seeds, genetic impurities could not be detected. Molecular analysis detected two types of genetic profile irregularity. Beside its use for verifying varieties of maize, report on umc1545 primer pair ability to detect non-specific bands (i.e., off-types), in both the maternal component and F1exp, which is the first report on this issue yet, strongly supports the recommendation of this SSR marker use for more accurate and time-efficient maize hybrids and parental lines genetic pyrity testing.
The Impacts of Supplemental Protein during Development on Amino Acid Concentrations in the Uterus and Pregnancy Outcomes of Angus Heifers

Simple Summary Replacement heifer development is a critical component in beef production. The identification of the ideal uterine environment will greatly benefit reproductive efficiency. Additionally, the elucidation of how diet can influence this environment could alter management strategies. Therefore, our hypothesis was that different levels of protein supplementation would affect the uterine environment of beef heifers without inhibiting development or the ability to conceive. Supplemental protein did not greatly affect the uterine environment as it pertained to amino acid concentrations. However, uterine amino acid concentrations did change throughout development, and protein supplementation can influence uterine luminal fluid composition on d 14 post-insemination, which may affect conception rates. Abstract Replacement heifer development is one of the most critical components in beef production. The composition of the ideal uterine environment could maximize fertility and reproductive efficiency. Our hypothesis was that protein supplementation would affect the uterine environment of beef heifers without inhibiting development or reproduction. To test the effects of dietary supplementation on these outcomes, a randomized complete block design with repeated measures was implemented. Angus heifers (n = 60) were blocked by body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to one of three supplemental protein treatment groups (10% (CON), 20% (P20), and 40% (P40)). Mixed model ANOVAs were used to determine whether protein supplementation treatments, time, and the interaction or protein supplementation, semen exposure, and the interaction influenced uterine luminal fluid (ULF) and pregnancy outcomes. Amino acids (AAs) were impacted (p < 0.001), specifically, the essential AAs: Arg, Iso, Leu, Val, His, Lys, Met, Phe, Trp. Protein supplementation influenced multiple AAs post-insemination: Arg (p = 0.03), CC (p = 0.05), 1-MH (p = 0.001), and Orn (p = 0.03). In conclusion, protein supplementation did not affect the reproductive development via puberty attainment or the timing of conception even with alterations in growth. However, uterine AA concentrations did change throughout development and protein supplementation influenced ULF d 14 post-insemination, which may affect the conception rates.
A Yeast Mitotic Tale for the Nucleus and the Vacuoles to Embrace

The morphology of the nucleus is roughly spherical in most eukaryotic cells. However, this organelle shape needs to change as the cell travels through narrow intercellular spaces during cell migration and during cell division in organisms that undergo closed mitosis, i.e., without dismantling the nuclear envelope, such as yeast. In addition, the nuclear morphology is often modified under stress and in pathological conditions, being a hallmark of cancer and senescent cells. Thus, understanding nuclear morphological dynamics is of uttermost importance, as pathways and proteins involved in nuclear shaping can be targeted in anticancer, antiaging, and antifungal therapies. Here, we review how and why the nuclear shape changes during mitotic blocks in yeast, introducing novel data that associate these changes with both the nucleolus and the vacuole. Altogether, these findings suggest a close relationship between the nucleolar domain of the nucleus and the autophagic organelle, which we also discuss here. Encouragingly, recent evidence in tumor cell lines has linked aberrant nuclear morphology to defects in lysosomal function.
Beneficial Effects of Opuntia spp. on Liver Health

The genus Opuntia spp. includes plants capable of growing in arid, temperate and tropical climates. The vast majority of wild species grow in Mexico, but O. ficus-indica (prickly pear or nopal) is cultivated around the world and it is one of the most studied. This review shows the currently available knowledge concerning the action of O. ficus-indica and other Opuntia species (Opuntia vulgaris, Opuntia robusta, Opuntia streptacantha, Opuntia microdasys, Opuntia dillenii and Opuntia dejecta) on liver health. The available data demonstrate the positive effects of extracts, vinegar, juices or seed oil of the Opuntia genus on the alterations induced in the liver by inadequate feeding patterns or the administration of chemicals. In this regard, the potential beneficial effects of nopal are related to the attenuation of triglyceride accumulation, oxidative stress and/or inflammation. Nevertheless, there is no information concerning the bioactive compound’s characterisation in most of these studies; consequently, it is not possible to link the therapeutic effects of these plants to the presence of specific compounds in the nopal extracts. Therefore, further research is needed to confirm if the positive effects observed in animal models are also found in humans, in order to determine whether Opuntia can represent an effective tool to prevent and/or manage hepatic alterations.