bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tomato Response to Fusarium spp. Infection under Field Conditions: Study of Potential Genes Involved
Authors: Ribeiro Joana A. , Albuquerque André , Materatski Patrick , Patanita Mariana , Varanda Carla M. R. , Félix Maria do Rosário , Campos Maria Doroteia
Published: May 2022

Tomato is one of the most important horticultural crops in the world and is severely affected by Fusarium diseases. To successfully manage these diseases, new insights on the expression of plant–pathogen interaction genes involved in immunity responses to Fusarium spp. infection are required. The aim of this study was to assess the level of infection of Fusarium spp. in field tomato samples and to evaluate the differential expression of target genes involved in plant–pathogen interactions in groups presenting different infection levels. Our study was able to detect Fusarium spp. in 16 from a total of 20 samples, proving the effectiveness of the primer set designed in the ITS region for its detection, and allowed the identification of two main different species complexes: Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti. Results demonstrated that the level of infection positively influenced the expression of the transcription factor WRKY41 and the CBEF (calcium-binding EF hand family protein) genes, involved in plant innate resistance to pathogens. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the expression of tomato defense-related gene expression is studied in response to Fusarium infection under natural field conditions. We highlight the importance of these studies for the identification of candidate genes to incorporate new sources of resistance in tomato and achieve sustainable plant disease management.
Ten Years of Neonatal Intensive Care Adaption to the Infants’ Needs: Implementation of a Family-Centered Care Model with Single-Family Rooms in Norway
Authors: Lyngstad Lene Tandle , Le Marechal Flore , Ekeberg Birgitte Lenes , Hochnowski Krzysztof , Hval Mariann , Tandberg Bente Silnes
Published: May 2022

Ten years ago, the Neonatal intensive care unit in Drammen, Norway, implemented Single-Family Rooms (SFR), replacing the traditional open bay (OB) unit. Welcoming parents to stay together with their infant 24 h per day, seven days per week, was both challenging and inspiring. The aim of this paper is to describe the implementation of SFR and how they have contributed to a cultural change among the interprofessional staff. Parents want to participate in infant care, but to do so, they need information and supervision from nurses, as well as emotional support. Although SFR protect infants and provide private accommodation for parents, nurses may feel isolated and lack peer support. Our paper describes how we managed to systematically reorganize the nurse’s workflow by using a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle approach. Significant milestones are identified, and the implementation processes are displayed. The continuous parental presence has changed the way we perceive the family as a care recipient and how we involve the parents in daily care. We provide visions for the future with further developments of care adapted to infants’ needs by providing neonatal intensive care with parents as equal partners.
Curcumin 3.0—Therapeutic and Diagnostic Potential in Cancer and Beyond
Authors: Bachmeier Beatrice E. , Blaheta Roman
Published: May 2022

Curcumin is one of the most interesting plant-derived polyphenols with a high potential for therapeutic, and even diagnostic, application in various diseases [...]
Therapeutic Application of Genome Editing Technologies in Viral Diseases
Authors: Kim Tae Hyeong , Lee Seong-Wook
Published: May 2022

Viral infections can be fatal and consequently, they are a serious threat to human health. Therefore, the development of vaccines and appropriate antiviral therapeutic agents is essential. Depending on the virus, it can cause an acute or a chronic infection. The characteristics of viruses can act as inhibiting factors for the development of appropriate treatment methods. Genome editing technology, including the use of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins, zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), and transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), is a technology that can directly target and modify genomic sequences in almost all eukaryotic cells. The development of this technology has greatly expanded its applicability in life science research and gene therapy development. Research on the use of this technology to develop therapeutics for viral diseases is being conducted for various purposes, such as eliminating latent infections or providing resistance to new infections. In this review, we will look at the current status of the development of viral therapeutic agents using genome editing technology and discuss how this technology can be used as a new treatment approach for viral diseases.
Lb1G04202, an Uncharacterized Protein from Recretohalophyte Limonium bicolor, Is Important in Salt Tolerance
Authors: Wang Xi , Wang Baoshan , Yuan Fang
Published: May 2022

With global increases in saline soil, it has become increasingly important to decipher salt-tolerance mechanisms and identify strategies to improve salt tolerance in crops. Halophytes complete their life cycles in environments containing ≥200 mM NaCl; these remarkable plants provide a potential source of genes for improving crop salt tolerance. Recretohalophytes such as Limonium bicolor have salt glands that secrete Na+ on their leaf epidermis. Here, we identified Lb1G04202, an uncharacterized gene with no conserved domains, from L. bicolor, which was highly expressed after NaCl treatment. We confirmed its expression in the salt gland by in situ hybridization, and then heterologously expressed Lb1G04202 in Arabidopsis thaliana. The transgenic lines had a higher germination rate, greater cotyledon growth percentage, and longer roots than the wild type (WT) under NaCl treatments (50, 100 and 150 mM). At the seedling stage, the transgenic lines grew better than the WT and had lower Na+ and malonyldialdehyde accumulation, and higher K+ and proline contents. This corresponded with the high expression of the key proline biosynthesis genes AtP5CS1 and AtP5CS2 under NaCl treatment. Isotonic mannitol treatment showed that Lb1G04202 overexpression significantly relieved osmotic stress. Therefore, this novel gene provides a potential target for improving salt tolerance.
Genome-Wide Identification of Expansin Genes in Wild Soybean (Glycine soja) and Functional Characterization of Expansin B1 (GsEXPB1) in Soybean Hair Root
Authors: Feng Xu , Li Cuiting , He Fumeng , Xu Yongqing , Li Li , Wang Xue , Chen Qingshan , Li Fenglan
Published: May 2022

Wild soybean, the progenitor and close relative of cultivated soybean, has an excellent environmental adaptation ability and abundant resistance genes. Expansins, as a class of cell wall relaxation proteins, have important functions in regulating plant growth and stress resistance. In the present study, we identified a total of 75 members of the expansin family on the basis of recent genomic data published for wild soybean. The predicted results of promoter elements structure showed that wild soybean expansin may be associated with plant hormones, stress responses, and growth. Basal transcriptome data of vegetative organs suggest that the transcription of expansin members has some organ specificity. Meanwhile, the transcripts of some members had strong responses to salt, low temperature and drought stress. We screened and obtained an expansin gene, GsEXPB1, which is transcribed specifically in roots and actively responds to salt stress. The results of A. tumefaciens transient transfection showed that this protein was localized in the cell wall of onion epidermal cells. We initially analyzed the function of GsEXPB1 by a soybean hairy root transformation assay and found that overexpression of GsEXPB1 significantly increased the number of hairy roots, root length, root weight, and the tolerance to salt stress. This research provides a foundation for subsequent studies of expansins in wild soybean.
A Glimpse of Molecular Biomarkers in Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Martí-Martínez Silvia , Valor Luis M.
Published: May 2022

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that is caused by an abnormal expansion of CAG repeats in the Huntingtin (HTT) gene. Although the main symptomatology is explained by alterations at the level of the central nervous system, predominantly affecting the basal ganglia, a peripheral component of the disease is being increasingly acknowledged. Therefore, the manifestation of the disease is complex and variable among CAG expansion carriers, introducing uncertainty in the appearance of specific signs, age of onset and severity of disease. The monogenic nature of the disorder allows a precise diagnosis, but the use of biomarkers with prognostic value is still needed to achieve clinical management of the patients in an individual manner. In addition, we need tools to evaluate the patient’s response to potential therapeutic approaches. In this review, we provide a succinct summary of the most interesting molecular biomarkers that have been assessed in patients, mostly obtained from body fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid, peripheral blood and saliva.
Aurivillius Oxides Nanosheets-Based Photocatalysts for Efficient Oxidation of Malachite Green Dye
Authors: Collu David A. , Carucci Cristina , Piludu Marco , Parsons Drew F. , Salis Andrea
Published: May 2022

Aurivillius oxides ferroelectric layered materials are formed by bismuth oxide and pseu-do-perovskite layers. They have a good ionic conductivity, which is beneficial for various photo-catalyzed reactions. Here, we synthesized ultra-thin nanosheets of two different Aurivillius oxides, Bi2WO6 (BWO) and Bi2MoO6 (BMO), by using a hard-template process. All materials were characterized through XRD, TEM, FTIR, TGA/DSC, DLS/ELS, DRS, UV-Vis. Band gap material (Eg) and potential of the valence band (EVB) were calculated for BWO and BMO. In contrast to previous reports on the use of multi composite materials, a new procedure for photocatalytic efficient BMO nanosheets was developed. The procedure, with an additional step only, avoids the use of composite materials, improves crystal structure, and strongly reduces impurities. BWO and BMO were used as photocatalysts for the degradation of the water pollutant dye malachite green (MG). MG removal kinetics was fitted with Langmuir—Hinshelwood model obtaining a kinetic constant k = 7.81 × 10−2 min−1 for BWO and k = 9.27 × 10−2 min−1 for BMO. Photocatalytic dye degradation was highly effective, reaching 89% and 91% MG removal for BWO and BMO, respectively. A control experiment, carried out in the absence of light, allowed to quantify the contribution of adsorption to MG removal process. Adsorption contributed to MG removal by a 51% for BWO and only by a 19% for BMO, suggesting a different degradation mechanism for the two photocatalysts. The advanced MG degradation process due to BMO is likely caused by the high crystallinity of the material synthetized with the new procedure. Reuse tests demonstrated that both photocatalysts are highly active and stable reaching a MG removal up to 95% at the 10th reaction cycle. These results demonstrate that BMO nanosheets, synthesized with an easy additional step, achieved the best degradation performance, and can be successfully used for environmental remediation applications.
Synergistic Activity of Ketoconazole and Miconazole with Prochloraz in Inducing Oxidative Stress, GSH Depletion, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and Apoptosis in Mouse Sertoli TM4 Cells
Authors: Petricca Sabrina , Celenza Giuseppe , Luzi Carla , Cinque Benedetta , Lizzi Anna Rita , Franceschini Nicola , Festuccia Claudio , Iorio Roberto
Published: May 2022

Triazole and imidazole fungicides represent an emerging class of pollutants with endocrine-disrupting properties. Concerning mammalian reproduction, a possible causative role of antifungal compounds in inducing toxicity has been reported, although currently, there is little evidence about potential cooperative toxic effects. Toxicant-induced oxidative stress (OS) may be an important mechanism potentially involved in male reproductive dysfunction. Thus, to clarify the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of azoles on male reproduction, the individual and combined potential of fluconazole (FCZ), prochloraz (PCZ), miconazole (MCZ), and ketoconazole (KCZ) in triggering in vitro toxicity, redox status alterations, and OS in mouse TM4 Sertoli cells (SCs) was investigated. In the present study, we demonstrate that KCZ and MCZ, alone or in synergistic combination with PCZ, strongly impair SC functions, and this event is, at least in part, ascribed to OS. In particular, azoles-induced cytotoxicity is associated with growth inhibitory effects, G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, imbalance of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) specific activity, glutathione (GSH) depletion, and apoptosis. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) inhibits ROS accumulation and rescues SCs from azole-induced apoptosis. PCZ alone exhibits only cytostatic and pro-oxidant properties, while FCZ, either individually or in combination, shows no cytotoxic effects up to 320 µM.
From Reparative Surgery to Regenerative Surgery: State of the Art of Porous Hydroxyapatite in Cranioplasty
Authors: Zaed Ismail , Cardia Andrea , Stefini Roberto
Published: May 2022

Decompressive craniectomy is one of the most common neurosurgical procedures, usually performed after neuropathological disorders, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), but also vascular accidents (strokes), erosive tumours, infections and other congenital abnormalities. This procedure is usually followed by the reconstruction of the cranial vault, which is also known as cranioplasty (CP). The gold-standard material for the reconstruction process is the autologous bone of the patient. However, this is not always a feasible option for all patients. Several heterologous materials have been created in the last decades to overcome such limitation. One of the most prominent materials that started to be used in CP is porous hydroxyapatite. PHA is a bioceramic material from the calcium phosphate family. It is already widely used in other medical specialties and only recently in neurosurgery. In this narrative review of the literature, we summarize the evidence on the use of PHA for cranial reconstruction, highlighting the clinical properties and limitations. We also explain how this material contributed to changing the concept of cranial reconstruction from reparative to regenerative surgery.
Prunetinoside Inhibits Lipopolysaccharide-Provoked Inflammatory Response via Suppressing NF-κB and Activating the JNK-Mediated Signaling Pathway in RAW264.7 Macrophage Cells
Authors: Abusaliya Abuyaseer , Bhosale Pritam Bhagwan , Kim Hun Hwan , Ha Sang Eun , Park Min Yeong , Jeong Se Hyo , Vetrivel Preethi , Park Joon-Suk , Kim Gon Sup
Published: May 2022

Inflammation is a multifaceted response of the immune system at the site of injury or infection caused by pathogens or stress via immune cells. Due to the adverse effects of chemical drugs, plant-based compounds are gaining interest in current research. Prunetinoside or prunetin-5-O-glucoside (PUG) is a plant-based active compound, which possesses anti-inflammatory effects on immune cells. In this study, we investigate the effect of PUG on mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cells with or without stimulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cytotoxicity results showed that PUG is non-cytotoxic to the cells and it reversed the cytotoxicity in LPS-stimulated cells. The levels of nitric oxide (NO) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined using a NO detection kit and IL-6 ELISA kit, respectively, and showed a significant decrease in NO and IL-6 in PUG-treated cells. Western blot and qRT-PCR were performed for the expression of two important pro-inflammatory cytokines, COX2 and iNOS, and found that their expression was downregulated in a dose-dependent manner. Other pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNFα, had reduced mRNA expression after PUG treatment. Furthermore, a Western blot was performed to calculate the expression of NF-κB and MAPK pathway proteins. The results show that PUG administration dramatically reduced the phosphorylation of p-Iκbα, p-NF-κB 65, and p-JNK. Remarkably, after PUG treatment, p-P38 and p-ERK remain unchanged. Furthermore, docking studies revealed that PUG is covalently linked to NF-κB and suppresses inflammation. In conclusion, PUG exerted the anti-inflammatory mechanism by barring the NF-κB pathway and activating JNK. Thus, prunetinoside could be adopted as a therapeutic compound for inflammatory-related conditions.
CRISPR/Cas9–Mediated Genome Editing for Pseudomonas fulva, a Novel Pseudomonas Species with Clinical, Animal, and Plant–Associated Isolates
Authors: Zhang Nan , He Jintao , Muhammad Abrar , Shao Yongqi
Published: May 2022

As one of the most widespread groups of Gram–negative bacteria, Pseudomonas bacteria are prevalent in almost all natural environments, where they have developed intimate associations with plants and animals. Pseudomonas fulva is a novel species of Pseudomonas with clinical, animal, and plant–associated isolates, closely related to human and animal health, plant growth, and bioremediation. Although genetic manipulations have been proven as powerful tools for understanding bacterial biological and biochemical characteristics and the evolutionary origins, native isolates are often difficult to genetically manipulate, thereby making it a time–consuming and laborious endeavor. Here, by using the CRISPR–Cas system, a versatile gene–editing tool with a two–plasmid strategy was developed for a native P. fulva strain isolated from the model organism silkworm (Bombyx mori) gut. We harmonized and detailed the experimental setup and clarified the optimal conditions for bacteria transformation, competent cell preparation, and higher editing efficiency. Furthermore, we provided some case studies, testing and validating this approach. An antibiotic–related gene, oqxB, was knocked out, resulting in the slow growth of the P. fulva deletion mutant in LB containing chloramphenicol. Fusion constructs with knocked–in gfp exhibited intense fluorescence. Altogether, the successful construction and application of new genetic editing approaches gave us more powerful tools to investigate the functionalities of the novel Pseudomonas species.
Cross-Linking Agents for Electrospinning-Based Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Lim Dong-Jin
Published: May 2022

Electrospun nanofibers are promising bone tissue scaffolds that support bone healing due to the body’s structural similarity to the extracellular matrix (ECM). However, the insufficient mechanical properties often limit their potential in bone tissue regeneration. Cross-linking agents that chemically interconnect as-spun electrospun nanofibers are a simple but effective strategy for improving electrospun nanofibers’ mechanical, biological, and degradation properties. To improve the mechanical characteristic of the nanofibrous bone scaffolds, two of the most common types of cross-linking agents are used to chemically crosslink electrospun nanofibers: synthetic and natural. Glutaraldehyde (GTA) is a typical synthetic agent for electrospun nanofibers, while genipin (GP) is a natural cross-linking agent isolated from gardenia fruit extracts. GP has gradually gained attention since GP has superior biocompatibility to synthetic ones. In recent studies, much more progress has been made in utilizing crosslinking strategies, including citric acid (CA), a natural cross-linking agent. This review summarizes both cross-linking agents commonly used to improve electrospun-based scaffolds in bone tissue engineering, explains recent progress, and attempts to expand the potential of this straightforward method for electrospinning-based bone tissue engineering.
The Val34Met, Thr164Ile and Ser220Cys Polymorphisms of the β2-Adrenergic Receptor and Their Consequences on the Receptor Conformational Features: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study
Authors: Archala Aneta , Plazinski Wojciech , Plazinska Anita
Published: May 2022

The gene encoding the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) is polymorphic, which results in possible differences in a primary structure of this protein. It has been shown that certain types of polymorphisms are correlated with some clinical features of asthma, including airways reactivity, whereas the influence of other is not yet understood. Among polymorphisms affecting amino acids at positions 16, 27, 34, 164 and 220, the latter three are present in the crystal structure of β2-AR, which facilitates studying them by means of molecular dynamics simulations. The current study was focused on investigating to what extent the three polymorphisms of β2-AR (i.e., Val34Met, Thr164Ile and Ser220Cys) affect the interaction of β2-AR with its natural molecular environment which includes: lipid bilayer (in the case of all three polymorphs) and Gs protein (which participates in β2-AR-mediated signaling; in the case of Ser220Cys). We have designed and carried out a series of molecular dynamics simulations at different level of resolution (i.e., either coarse-grained or atomistic simulations), accompanied by thermodynamic integration protocol, in order to identify potential polymorphism-induced alterations in structural, conformational or energetic features of β2-AR. The results indicate the lack of significant differences in the case of energies involved in the β2-AR-lipid bilayer interactions. Some differences have been observed when considering the polymorphism-induced alterations in β2-AR-Gs protein binding, but their magnitude is also negligible in relation to the absolute free energy difference correlated with the β2-AR-Gs affinity. The Val34Met and Thr164Ile polymorphisms are weakly correlated with alteration of the conformational features of the receptor around polymorphic sites. On the contrary, it has been concluded that the Ser220Cys polymorphism is correlated with several structural alterations located in the intracellular region of β2-AR, which can induce G-protein binding and, subsequently, the polymorphism-correlated therapeutic responses. More precisely, these alterations involve vicinity of intracellular loops and, in part, are the direct consequence of disturbed interactions of Ser/Cys220 sidechain within 5th transmembrane domain. Structurally, the dynamic structure exhibited by the β2-ARSer220 polymorph is closer to the Gs-compatible structure of β2-AR.
Fullerene Rosette: Two-Dimensional Interactive Nanoarchitectonics and Selective Vapor Sensing
Authors: Chen Guoping , Bhadra Biswa Nath , Sutrisno Linawati , Shrestha Lok Kumar , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: May 2022

The simplicity of fullerenes as assembled components provides attractive opportunities for basic understanding in self-assembly research. We applied in situ reactive methods to the self-assembly process of C60 molecules with melamine/ethylenediamine components in solution, resulting in a novel type of fullerene assemblies, micron-sized two-dimensional, amorphous shape-regular objects, fullerene rosettes. ATR–FTIR spectra, XPS, and TGA results suggest that the melamine/ethylenediamine components strongly interact and/or are covalently linked with fullerenes in the fullerene rosettes. The broad peak for layer spacing in the XRD patterns of the fullerene rosettes corresponds roughly to the interdigitated fullerene bilayer or monolayer of modified fullerene molecules. The fullerene rosettes are made from the accumulation of bilayer/monolayer assemblies of hybridized fullerenes in low crystallinity. Prototype sensor systems were fabricated upon immobilization of the fullerene rosettes onto surfaces of a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), and selective sensing of formic acid was demonstrated as preliminary results for social-demanded toxic material sensing. The QCM sensor with fullerene rosette is categorized as one of the large-response sensors among reported examples. In selectivity to formic acids against basic guests (formic acid/pyridine >30) or aromatic guests (formic acid/toluene >110), the fullerene rosette-based QCM sensor also showed superior performance.
The Significance of Ventricular Topology in the Analysis of Congenitally Malformed Hearts
Authors: Crucean Adrian C. , Spicer Diane E. , Anderson Robert H.
Published: May 2022

There are still confusing descriptions of how congenitally malformed hearts should be categorised, even in their simplest forms. Despite repeated attempts toward a unified and simplified analysis, morphologists and clinicians continue to use different nomenclatures. This variability has a profound impact not only on how we communicate with patients but also on how the healthcare professionals produce clinical reports, research papers and educational and training materials, not to mention the impact on other levels such as managerial, administrative, coding, financial and media communications. Moreover, there are influences on how we actually treat patients based on a different understanding of nomenclature. This paper aims to explain a method of analysing the cardiac segments and their connections based on the current understanding of structural development.
Comparison of Different Laboratory Tests to Identify “Aspirin Resistance” and Risk of Vascular Events among Ischaemic Stroke Patients: A Double-Blind Study
Authors: Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Agustin Sherwin Joy , Padilla Jorge L. , Yumul Maricar P. , Sum Christina , Lee Sze Haur , Ponnudurai Kuperan , Gan Robert N.
Published: May 2022

“Aspirin resistance” (AR) is associated with increased risk of vascular events. We aimed to compare different platelet function tests used in identifying AR and assess their implications on clinical outcome. We performed platelet aggregation studies on non-cardioembolic ischaemic stroke patients taking aspirin 100 mg/day and 30 non-stroke controls. Data were collected on demographics, vascular risk factors, and concomitant medications. Cut-offs for AR were (1) light transmission aggregometry (LTA) of ≥20% using arachidonic acid (AA), ≥70% using ADP, or ≥60% using collagen; and (2) VerifyNow® assay ≥ 550 ARU. Telephone follow-ups were conducted by study staff blinded to AR status to ascertain the occurrence of vascular outcomes (stroke, myocardial infarction, amputation, death). A total of 113 patients were recruited, mean age 65 ± 8 years, 47% women, 45 ± 15 days from index stroke. 50 (44.3%, 95% CI 34.9–53.9) had AR on at least 1 test. Frequency of AR varied from 0% to 39% depending on method used and first vs. recurrent stroke. There were strong correlations between LTA AA, VerifyNow® and Multiplate® ASPItest (r = 0.7457–0.8893), but fair to poor correlation between LTA collagen and Multiplate® COLtest (r = 0.5887) and between LTA ADP and Multiplate® ADPtest (r = 0.0899). Of 103 patients with a mean follow up of 801 ± 249 days, 10 (9.7%) had vascular outcomes, of which six had AR by LTA-ADP. AR by LTA-ADP is associated with increased risk of vascular outcome (p = 0.034). Identification of AR is not consistent across different platelet function tests. LTA of ≥70% using 10 µM ADP in post-stroke patients taking aspirin is associated with increased risk of vascular outcome.
Silicone vs. Polyurethane Stent: The Final Countdown
Authors: Mathias Suresh , Wiseman Oliver
Published: May 2022

Ureteric stents are conventionally used in daily urological practice. There is ongoing debate on the superiority of different stent materials, particularly in terms of patient tolerance. We conducted a literature review to compare silicone stents and stents made of other materials from a patient tolerability perspective. We conclude that silicone stents are better tolerated but further research is required.
Clinical Efficacy of Melon GliSODin® for the Treatment of Aging-Related Dysfunction in Motor Organs—A Double Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Koike Masato , Nagao Masashi , Iwase Yoshiyuki , Kaneko Kazuo , Ishijima Muneaki , Nojiri Hidetoshi
Published: May 2022

Background: Locomotive syndrome is a concept proposed in Japan involving decreased mobility due to osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. This double-blind, randomized study aimed to investigate the effects of superoxide dismutase (SOD)-rich melon extract (Melon GliSODin®) on locomotive syndrome. Methods: For 6 months, we administered oral Melon GliSODin® (500.4 mg/day) or a placebo to 24 and 22 women, respectively (aged 50–80 years), with knee or lower back discomfort or pain. Using baseline and 6-month data, changes in the Verbal Rating Scale and in subjective symptoms (determined using the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure, Locomo 25, the Roland–Morris Disability questionnaire, and the Chalder Fatigue Scale) were assessed, along with various oxidative markers, antioxidants, inflammatory markers, renal and liver function biochemical markers, bone metabolism markers, body composition, and motor function. Results: Oral Melon GliSODin® administration tended to be associated with a larger improvement in subjective symptom scores, a reduction in oxidative markers (malondialdehyde and diacron reactive oxygen metabolites) and tumor necrosis factor-α, and a significant increase in non-fat mass between baseline and 6 months. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the groups for outcomes at 6 months. Conclusions: Melon GliSODin® tended to improve the subjective symptoms of participants who had knee or lower back pain or discomfort. Melon GliSODin® administration may help to prevent the progression of locomotive syndrome. Future studies involving larger sample sizes and more stringent randomization protocols are needed to determine differences between the placebo and Melon GliSODin® groups.
A Non-Invasive Neonatal Signature Predicts Later Development of Atopic Diseases
Authors: Sereme Youssouf , Michel Moïse , Mezouar Soraya , Guindo Cheick Oumar , Kaba Lanceï , Grine Ghiles , Mura Thibault , Mège Jean-Louis , Tran Tu Anh , Corbeau Pierre , Filleron Anne , Vitte Joana
Published: May 2022

Background: Preterm birth is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in infants and children. Non-invasive methods for screening the neonatal immune status are lacking. Archaea, a prokaryotic life domain, comprise methanogenic species that are part of the neonatal human microbiota and contribute to early immune imprinting. However, they have not yet been characterized in preterm neonates. Objective: To characterize the gut immunological and methanogenic Archaeal (MA) signature in preterm neonates, using the presence or absence of atopic conditions at the age of one year as a clinical endpoint. Methods: Meconium and stool were collected from preterm neonates and used to develop a standardized stool preparation method for the assessment of mediators and cytokines and characterize the qPCR kinetics of gut MA. Analysis addressed the relationship between immunological biomarkers, Archaea abundance, and atopic disease at age one. Results: Immunoglobulin E, tryptase, calprotectin, EDN, cytokines, and MA were detectable in the meconium and later samples. Atopic conditions at age of one year were positively associated with neonatal EDN, IL-1β, IL-10, IL-6, and MA abundance. The latter was negatively associated with neonatal EDN, IL-1β, and IL-6. Conclusions: We report a non-invasive method for establishing a gut immunological and Archaeal signature in preterm neonates, predictive of atopic diseases at the age of one year.
Comment on Montagnani et al. Optimization of RAASi Therapy with New Potassium Binders for Patients with Heart Failure and Hyperkalemia: Rapid Review and Meta-Analysis. J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10, 5483
Authors: Zarzuela Donna , Chin Alex
Published: May 2022

The recent rapid review and meta-analysis by Montagnani et al. [...]
Heterogeneity of Blood Vessels and Assessment of Microvessel Density-MVD in Gingivitis
Authors: Roi Ciprian , Gaje Pușa Nela , Ceaușu Raluca Amalia , Roi Alexandra , Rusu Laura Cristina , Boia Eugen Radu , Boia Simina , Luca Ruxandra Elena , Riviș Mircea
Published: May 2022

Gingivitis is a very common oral disease highly prevalent in adults that, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis. It involves a complex and slow interaction between the host response and the oral microbiome represented by the dental plaque. The inflammation of the gingiva is associated with the activation of pathological angiogenesis and the existence of a high number of newly formed blood vessels quantified as microvessel density (MVD). The present study includes a number of 51 gingival biopsies from patients with different gingival indexes (GI): GI = 0, n = 12; GI = 1, n = 15; GI = 2, n = 16; and GI = 3, n = 8, processed and stained with the routine hematoxylin–eosin method. The inflammatory infiltrate was scored, the blood vessels were detected with anti-CD34 antibody, and MVD was determined. Inflammatory changes were observed in 39 of the 51 cases included in our study. CD34 + vessels with normal morphological appearance were observed in all 12 cases of health gingiva. In cases of inflammatory lesions, the morphology of the blood vessels showed changes with the evolution of gingival lesions. In severe inflammation, a particular aspect was observed in the vessels, such as the presence of the phenomenon of intussusception. MVD increases with the severity of gingival lesions, with the highest density being observed in severe inflammation.
Obtaining the Dimensions and Orientation of 2D Rectangular Flakes from Sectioning Experiments in Flake Composites
Authors: Papathanasiou Thanasis D. , Tsiantis Andreas , Wang Yanwei
Published: May 2022

Recently, we developed and reported the statistical validity of two methods for determining the planar aspect ratios of two-dimensional (2D) rectangular flakes in composites from the statistics of intersection lengths: one method is based on the maximum intersection length, and the other on the average intersection length. In this work, we show that these methods are valid and robust not only for flakes having isotropic, random in-plane orientations, but for the more general situations of planar orientations ranging from unidirectional (misalignment angle ϵ=0), to partially aligned (0<ϵ<π/2), to flakes of isotropic, random-in-plane orientations (ϵ=π/2). We prove, by Monte Carlo simulations and by numerical sectioning experiments, the validity of the proposed methods for characterizing the extent of the partial alignment (the misalignment angle ϵ) of 2D rectangular flakes in composites, based again on the statistics of the intersection lengths; this information can be obtained from cross-sections of composite samples used in optical or electron microscopy or using tomographic imaging techniques. The performance of these techniques was tested using blind experiments in numerically sectioned composites which contained up to 106 individual flakes, and was found to be very good for a wide range of flake aspect ratios.
Craniofacial Phenotypes and Genetics of DiGeorge Syndrome
Authors: Funato Noriko
Published: May 2022

The 22q11.2 deletion is one of the most common genetic microdeletions, affecting approximately 1 in 4000 live births in humans. A 1.5 to 2.5 Mb hemizygous deletion of chromosome 22q11.2 causes DiGeorge syndrome (DGS) and velocardiofacial syndrome (VCFS). DGS/VCFS are associated with prevalent cardiac malformations, thymic and parathyroid hypoplasia, and craniofacial defects. Patients with DGS/VCFS manifest craniofacial anomalies involving the cranium, cranial base, jaws, pharyngeal muscles, ear-nose-throat, palate, teeth, and cervical spine. Most craniofacial phenotypes of DGS/VCFS are caused by proximal 1.5 Mb microdeletions, resulting in a hemizygosity of coding genes, microRNAs, and long noncoding RNAs. TBX1, located on chromosome 22q11.21, encodes a T-box transcription factor and is a candidate gene for DGS/VCFS. TBX1 regulates the fate of progenitor cells in the cranial and pharyngeal apparatus during embryogenesis. Tbx1-null mice exhibit the most clinical features of DGS/VCFS, including craniofacial phenotypes. Despite the frequency of DGS/VCFS, there has been a limited review of the craniofacial phenotypes of DGC/VCFS. This review focuses on these phenotypes and summarizes the current understanding of the genetic factors that impact DGS/VCFS-related phenotypes. We also review DGS/VCFS mouse models that have been designed to better understand the pathogenic processes of DGS/VCFS.
On Acquisition Parameters and Processing Techniques for Interparticle Contact Detection in Granular Packings Using Synchrotron Computed Tomography
Authors: Alvarez-Borges Fernando , Ahmed Sharif , Atwood Robert C.
Published: May 2022

X-ray computed tomography (XCT) is regularly employed in geomechanics to non-destructively measure the solid and pore fractions of soil and rock from reconstructed 3D images. With the increasing availability of high-resolution XCT imaging systems, researchers now seek to measure microfabric parameters such as the number and area of interparticle contacts, which can then be used to inform soil behaviour modelling techniques. However, recent research has evidenced that conventional image processing methods consistently overestimate the number and area of interparticle contacts, mainly due to acquisition-driven image artefacts. The present study seeks to address this issue by systematically assessing the role of XCT acquisition parameters in the accurate detection of interparticle contacts. To this end, synchrotron XCT has been applied to a hexagonal close-packed arrangement of glass pellets with and without a prescribed separation between lattice layers. Different values for the number of projections, exposure time, and rotation range have been evaluated. Conventional global grey value thresholding and novel U-Net segmentation methods have been assessed, followed by local refinements at the presumptive contacts, as per recently proposed contact detection routines. The effect of the different acquisition set-ups and segmentation techniques on contact detection performance is presented and discussed, and optimised workflows are proposed.
Spartina alterniflora Invasion Enhances Dissimilatory Nitrate Reduction to Ammonium (DNRA) Rates in the Yangtze River Estuary, China
Authors: Li Niu , Nie Ming , Wu Ming , Wu Jihua
Published: May 2022

Dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) can save N by converting nitrate into ammonium and avoiding nitrate leaching and runoff in saltmarshes. However, little is known about the effects of invasive plants on DNRA in the upper and deeper soil layers in salt marshes. Here, we investigated DNRA rates in the soils of six different depth layers (0–5, 5–10, 10–20, 20–30, 30–50, and 50–100 cm) from the invasive Spartina alterniflora marshland, two native plants Scirpus mariqueter and Phragmites australis marshlands, and bare mudflat on Chongming Island, located in the Yangtze River Estuary, China. Our results show that S. alterniflora significantly increased DNRA rates in both the upper 50 cm soil and deeper 50–100 cm soil layers. With respect to the entire soil profile, the NO3− reduction content calculated from DNRA in S. alterniflora marshland was 502.84 g N m−2 yr−1, increased by 47.10%, 49.42%, and 38.57% compared to bare mudflat, S. mariquete, and P. australis, respectively. Moreover, NO3− reduction content from the 50–100 cm soil layers was almost identical to that in the upper 50 cm of the soil. In the month of May, DNRA is primarily regulated by SO42− and pH in the upper and deeper soil layers, respectively, whereas, in the month of October, soil pH accounted for the most variables of DNRA in both the upper and deeper soil layers. Altogether, these results from a new perspective confirm that S. alterniflora invasion increases soil N pool and may further push its invasion in salt marshes, and the importance of deeper soil in nitrogen cycling cannot be ignored.
[20(22)E]-Lanostane Triterpenes from the Fungus Ganoderma australe
Authors: Zhou Lin , Guo Li-Li , Isaka Masahiko , Li Zheng-Hui , Chen He-Ping
Published: May 2022

Twelve new lanostane triterpenoids (1–5, 7–13) were isolated from the fruiting bodies of the fungus Ganoderma australe. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive 1D and 2D NMR, and HRESIMS spectroscopic analysis. All the triterpenes are featured by 20(22)E configurations which are uncommon in the Ganoderma triterpene family. The absolute configuration of the C-25 of compounds 1, 2, and 6 were determined by the phenylglycine methyl ester (PGME) method. A postulated biosynthetic pathway for compound 1 was discussed. This study opens new insights into the secondary metabolites of the chemically underinvestigated fungus G. australe.
Diagnosis from Tissue: Histology and Identification
Authors: Sabino Raquel , Wiederhold Nathan
Published: May 2022

The diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment against invasive fungal infections depend upon accurate identification of pathogens by pathologists and clinical microbiologists. Histopathology is often critical in providing diagnostic insight in patients with suspected fungal infections, and such findings are incorporated into the definitions of proven or probable disease caused by certain pathogens. Such examinations can offer provisional identifications of fungal organisms, which can help guide initial therapy while laboratory results are pending. Common etiologic agents of invasive mycoses may be recognized based on morphologic characteristics observed in tissue and biologic fluids, such as those obtained from bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchial washings. However, care should be taken in the interpretation of these findings, as there may be a false sense of the ability to correctly categorize fungal organisms to the genus or species level by morphologic features alone. Studies have demonstrated discordant results between histopathology and laboratory results due to overlapping morphologic features, morphologic mimics, and sampling errors. Thus, histopathology plays an integral role in providing a differential of potential fungal pathogens but must be combined with results from laboratory studies, including cultures, antigen tests, serology, and molecular assays, in order to improve accuracy in the identification of etiologic agents of fungal infections. Inaccurate identification of the infecting organism can lead to inappropriate antifungal therapy and possibly poor clinical outcomes.
Pharmacogenetics of Donepezil and Memantine in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Ovejero-Benito María C. , Ochoa Dolores , Enrique-Benedito Teresa , del Peso-Casado Miriam , Zubiaur Pablo , Navares Marcos , Román Manuel , Abad-Santos Francisco
Published: May 2022

Donepezil and memantine are the most common drugs used for Alzheimer’s disease. Their low effectiveness could partly be explained by genetic factors. Thus, we aim to identify Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the safety of donepezil and memantine. For this regard, 25 volunteers enrolled in a bioequivalence clinical trial were genotyped for 67 SNPs in 21 genes with a ThermoFisher QuantStudio 12K Flex OpenArray. The statistical strategy included a univariate analysis that analyzed the association of these SNPs with pharmacokinetic parameters or the development of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) followed by a Bonferroni-corrected multivariate regression. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS software v.21 and R commander (version v3.6.3). In the univariate analysis, fourteen and sixteen SNPs showed a significant association with memantine’s and donepezil’s pharmacokinetic parameters, respectively. Rs20417 (PTGS2) was associated with the development of at least one ADR. However, none of these associations reached the significance threshold in the Bonferroni-corrected multivariate analysis. In conclusion, we did not observe any significant association of the SNPs analyzed with memantine and donepezil pharmacokinetics or ADRs. Current evidence on memantine and donepezil pharmacogenetics does not justify their inclusion in pharmacogenetic guidelines.
Does Ownership Structure Moderate the Relationship between Systemic Risk and Corporate Governance? Evidence from Gulf Cooperation Council Countries
Authors: Abidi Ilyes , Nsaibi Mariem , Hussainey Khaled
Published: May 2022

The objective of this paper is to empirically examine the moderating effect of ownership structure on the relationship between systemic risk and corporate governance. It complements prior research by studying the relationship between the proportion of capital held by state institutions and systemic risk. It also examines the internal governance mechanisms that mitigate systemic risk. For this purpose, this research used a dataset consisting of 22 banks from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (10 Islamic banks and 12 conventional banks) over the period 2004–2018. We used a three-stage least squares (3SLS) regression to test our research hypotheses. The findings revealed that the structure of the board of directors (BOD) reduced systemic risk in the banking sector. In particular, we provide evidence that board composition and board meetings negatively affect systematic risk. In addition, we provide empirical evidence that the state plays a key role in moderating the relationship between governance mechanisms and systemic risk. As such, our paper provides significant contributions to the governance and corporate finance literature.
Theories of Crowdfunding and Token Issues: A Review
Authors: Miglo Anton
Published: May 2022

Entrepreneurial, innovative and small- and medium-sized firms experience difficulties with raising funds using traditional debt and equity. Consequently, they are constantly looking for new strategies of financing. The latest inventions are crowdfunding and token issues. In contrast to traditional ways of raising funds these innovations: (1) use modern technology (online transactions, blockchain, etc.) much more actively; (2) are usually quicker in reaching potential investors/funders; (3) use more active network benefits such as, for example, a large number of interactions between investors/funders and between funders and firms. These changes are so significant that some experts list them among the top business inventions of the 21st century. This article provides a review of the growing number of theoretical papers in the areas of crowdfunding and token issues, compares their findings with empirical evidence and discusses directions for future research. The research shows that a large gap exists between the theoretical literature and empirical literature.