bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Insights Into Tautomeric Dynamics in Nucleic Acids and in Antiviral Nucleoside Analogs
Authors: Fedeles Bogdan I. , Li Deyu , Singh Vipender
Published: January 2022

DNA (2′-deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) play diverse functional roles in biology and disease. Despite being comprised primarily of only four cognate nucleobases, nucleic acids can adopt complex three-dimensional structures, and RNA in particular, can catalyze biochemical reactions to regulate a wide variety of biological processes. Such chemical versatility is due in part to the phenomenon of nucleobase tautomerism, whereby the bases can adopt multiple, yet distinct isomeric forms, known as tautomers. For nucleobases, tautomers refer to structural isomers that differ from one another by the position of protons. By altering the position of protons on nucleobases, many of which play critical roles for hydrogen bonding and base pairing interactions, tautomerism has profound effects on the biochemical processes involving nucleic acids. For example, the transient formation of minor tautomers during replication could generate spontaneous mutations. These mutations could arise from the stabilization of mismatches, in the active site of polymerases, in conformations involving minor tautomers that are indistinguishable from canonical base pairs. In this review, we discuss the evidence for tautomerism in DNA, and its consequences to the fidelity of DNA replication. Also reviewed are RNA systems, such as the riboswitches and self-cleaving ribozymes, in which tautomerism plays a functional role in ligand recognition and catalysis, respectively. We also discuss tautomeric nucleoside analogs that are efficacious as antiviral drug candidates such as molnupiravir for coronaviruses and KP1212 for HIV. The antiviral efficacy of these analogs is due, in part, to their ability to exist in multiple tautomeric forms and induce mutations in the replicating viral genomes. From a technical standpoint, minor tautomers of nucleobases are challenging to identify directly because they are rare and interconvert on a fast, millisecond to nanosecond, time scale. Nevertheless, many approaches including biochemical, structural, computational and spectroscopic methods have been developed to study tautomeric dynamics in RNA and DNA systems, and in antiviral nucleoside analogs. An overview of these methods and their applications is included here.
Aging Brains Degrade Driving Safety Performances of the Healthy Elderly
Authors: Park Kaechang , Renge Kazumi , Nakagawa Yoshinori , Yamashita Fumio , Tada Masahiro , Kumagai Yasuhiko
Published: January 2022

The relationship between aging brains and driving safety performances (DSPs) of elderly drivers was studied. A total of 90 dementia-free participants (63 men and 27 women, mean age 75.31 ± 4.795 years) were recruited and their DSPs were analyzed on actual vehicles running through a closed-circuit course. DSPs were comprehensively evaluated on the basis of driving instructors' scores (DIS). Signaling and visual research behaviors, part of DSPs, were measured to supplement the DIS evaluation by driving recorders (DR) and wearable wireless sensors (WS), respectively. Aging brains were evaluated via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and experimentally assigned to two grades (high vs. low) of brain atrophy (BA) and leukoaraiosis (LA). Regression analyses on DIS and DR data, and logistic analysis on WS scores showed significant correlations of aging brains with degradation of DSPs. The participant group with more advanced BAs and LAs showed lower DIS, DR data, and WS scores representing degraded DSP regardless of age. These results suggest that MRI examinations from both volumetric and pathological perspectives of brains have the potential to help identify elderly drivers with dangerous driving behaviors. Brain healthcare, lifestyle improvements and medical treatments to suppress BA and LA, may contribute to preventing DSP degradation of elderly drivers with aging brains.
The Impact of Rotating Night Shift Work and Daytime Recharge on Cognitive Performance Among Retired Nurses
Authors: Gan Jinghuan , Wang Xiao-Dan , Shi Zhihong , Yuan Junliang , Zhang Meiyun , Liu Shuai , Wang Fei , You Yong , Jia Peifei , Feng Lisha , Xu Junying , Zhang Jinhong , Hu Wenzheng , Chen Zhichao , Ji Yong
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The exact relationship between long-term shift work (SW) and cognitive impairment (CI) has been poorly understood. The effects of the long-term rotating night SW (RNSW) combining daytime recharge (DTR) on cognitive function were investigated.

Methods

A total 920 retired nurses and 656 retired female teachers aged ≥50 years were analyzed. Participants who worked at least once per week for 8 hat night for more than 1 year were defined as the SW group, and those without a regular nighttime shift were defined as the control group. The associations among duration, frequency, and DTR of RNSW, and neuropsychological assessments were ascertained by regression models.

Results

Participants with RNSW had a significantly higher proportion of mild CI (MCI), both amnestic MCI (aMCI) (14.4% in 11–20 years, p < 0.05, and 17.8% in > 20 years, p < 0.001) and non-amnestic MCI (naMCI) (8.1% in 11–20 years, p < 0.05), as well as dementia (1.5% in 1–10 years, and 11.7% in > 20 years, p < 0.05) compared to controls (8.4% with aMCI, 4.4% with naMCI, and 7.0% with dementia, respectively). There were significant negative relationships between general times of night SW and scores of Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) (R squared = 0.01, p = 0.0014) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) (R squared = 0.01, p = 0.0054). Participants with ≥1 h of DTR and ≥ 11 years of RNSW were about 2-fold more likely to experience MCI compared with the subjects in the control group, especially with 3–5 h (odds ratio [OR]: 2.35; 95% confidence interval: 1.49–3.68, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The long-term RNSW was associated with a higher risk of CI, especially aMCI and dementia, and the problem cannot be improved by DTR.
Cigarette Smoking and Risk of Different Pathologic Types of Stroke: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis
Authors: Luo Jianyu , Tang Xiaorong , Li Fan , Wen Hao , Wang Lin , Ge Shuqi , Tang Chunzhi , Xu Nenggui , Lu Liming
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To quantify the association of cigarette smoking, including cigarettes per day and quitting duration, with the risk of different types of stroke morbidity and mortality in the general population, and to clarify the shape of the dose-response relations.

Study Selection

Prospective cohort studies and reported on the association between smoking, quitting and the incidence or mortality of stroke were included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

All available data were converted uniformly to odds ratios (ORs) and were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis with inverse variance weighting. A dose-response meta-analysis was performed to explore the quantitative relationship between different smoking characteristics and the risk of different pathologic types of stroke incidence.

Results

Twenty-five studies with 3,734,216 individuals were included. Compared to never smokers, the pooled ORs of stroke morbidity and mortality were 1.45 (1.24–1.70) and 1.44 (1.23–1.67) among ever smokers and 1.90 (1.55–2.34) and 1.70 (1.45–1.98) among current smokers. The risk of different pathologic types of stroke was also increased among ever and current smokers. There was a significant non-linear dose-response association between the number of cigarette smoking and the risk of stroke incidence. Comparing no smoking, the ORs for smoking five and 35 cigarettes per day were 1.44 (1.35–1.53) and 1.86 (1.71–2.02). Other pathologic types of stroke have a similar dose-response relationship. There was also non-linear dose-response association between the length of time since quitting and risk of stroke. The risk of stroke decreased significantly after quitting for 3 years [OR = 0.56 (0.42–0.74)].

Conclusion

The risk of different types of stroke among smokers is remarkably high. Our findings revealed a more detailed dose-response relationship and have important implications for developing smoking control strategies for stroke prevention.

Systematic Review Registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2020-6-0062/, identifier: INPLASY202060062.
Efficacy of Stent Thrombectomy Alone or Combined With Intermediate Catheter Aspiration for Severe Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis: A Case-Series
Authors: Peng Tao , Dan Bitang , Zhang Zini , Zhu Bifeng , Liu Jianlin
Published: January 2022

Objective

To assess the safety and efficacy of stent thrombectomy alone or combined with intermediate catheter aspiration for severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.

Method

We retrospectively collected the clinical data of 7 patients with severe CVST who received endovascular treatment at our hospital from January 2017 to June 2020. The patients had at least one adverse prognostic factor (mental status disorder, comatose state, intracerebral hemorrhage, or thrombosis of the deep venous system).

Results

The median age was 51 years. Three patients were women. Two or more venous sinuses were in involved in 5 patients. All patients received systemic anticoagulant therapy before endovascular therapy. Neurological deterioration was the main reason for patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis undergoing intravascular therapy. The median time from admission to intravascular therapy was 3 days (1–9 days). Primary endpoints: 6 patients (85.7%) had a modified Rankin scale score of 0 at day 90, and 1 patient (14.3%) had a modified Rankin scale score of 2 at day 90. Secondary endpoints: complete recanalization was achieved in 4 cases (57.1%) and partial recanalization in 3 cases (42.9%).

Conclusion

Stent thrombectomy, combined with intermediate catheter aspiration, balloon dilation, and regional thrombolysis/anticoagulation treatment, is an effective strategy to treat severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis patients who had inadequate response to anticoagulant therapy. This strategy can quickly eliminate the occluded venous sinus and improve prognosis of severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.
Fluid-Attenuated Inversion Recovery Vascular Hyperintensity as a Potential Predictor for the Prognosis of Acute Stroke Patients After Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Zhu Lin , Jiang Fuping , Wang Meng , Zhai Qian , Zhang Qing , Wang Feng , Mao Xuqiang , Chen Nihong , Zhou Junshan , Xi Guangjun , Shi Yachen
Published: January 2022

Background

Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery vascular hyperintensity (FVH) can reflect the collateral status, which may be a valuable indicator to predict the functional outcome of acute stroke (AS) patients.

Methods

A total of 190 AS patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) were retrospectively investigated. All patients completed a 6-month follow-up and their modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores were recorded at 1, 3, and 6 months after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). Based on their mRS at 3 months, patients were divided into two groups: poor prognosis (131 patients; 68.9% of all subjects) and favorable prognosis (59 patients; 31.1% of all subjects). The death records of 28 patients were also analyzed in the poor prognosis group.

Results

(1) Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission, higher fasting blood glucose, and lower FVH score were independent risk factors to predict the poor prognosis of IVT. (2) Survival analysis indicated that FVH score was the only baseline factor to predict the 6-month survival after IVT. (3) Baseline FVH score had great prediction performance for the prognosis of IVT (area under the curve = 0.853). (4) Baseline FVH score were negatively correlated with the NIHSS score at discharge and mRS score at 1, 3, and 6 months.

Conclusion

Among various baseline clinical factors, only the FVH score might have implications for 3-month outcome and 6-month survival of AS patients after IVT. Baseline FVH score showed great potential to predict the prognosis of the AS patients.
Approaches Toward Targeting Matrix Metalloproteases for Prognosis and Therapies in Gynecological Cancer: MicroRNAs as a Molecular Driver
Authors: Pandit Anuradha , Begum Yasmin , Saha Priyanka , Srivastava Amit Kumar , Swarnakar Snehasikta
Published: January 2022

Gene expression can be regulated by small non-coding RNA molecules like microRNAs (miRNAs) which act as cellular mediators necessary for growth, differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. miRNA deregulation is often observed in many human malignancies, acting both as tumor-promoting and suppressing, and their abnormal expression is linked to unrestrained cellular proliferation, metastasis, and perturbation in DNA damage as well as cell cycle. Matrix Metalloproteases (MMPs) have crucial roles in both growth, and tissue remodeling in normal conditions, as well as in promoting cancer development and metastasis. Herein, we outline an integrated interactive study involving various MMPs and miRNAs and also feature a way in which these communications impact malignant growth, movement, and metastasis. The present review emphasizes on important miRNAs that might impact gynecological cancer progression directly or indirectly via regulating MMPs. Additionally, we address the likely use of miRNA-mediated MMP regulation and their downstream signaling pathways towards the development of a potential treatment of gynecological cancers.
Diagnostic Performance of Extraprostatic Extension Grading System for Detection of Extraprostatic Extension in Prostate Cancer: A Diagnostic Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Wei , Shang Wenwen , Lu Feng , Sun Yuan , Tian Jun , Wu Yiman , Dong Anding
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the extraprostatic extension (EPE) grading system for detection of EPE in patients with prostate cancer (PCa).

Materials and Methods

We performed a literature search of Web of Science, MEDLINE (Ovid and PubMed), Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Google Scholar to identify eligible articles published before August 31, 2021, with no language restrictions applied. We included studies using the EPE grading system for the prediction of EPE, with histopathological results as the reference standard. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (LR+), negative likelihood ratio (LR−), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated with the bivariate model. Quality assessment of included studies was performed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool.

Results

A total of 4 studies with 1,294 patients were included in the current systematic review. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.82 (95% CI 0.76–0.87) and 0.63 (95% CI 0.51–0.73), with the area under the hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic (HSROC) curve of 0.82 (95% CI 0.79–0.85). The pooled LR+, LR−, and DOR were 2.20 (95% CI 1.70–2.86), 0.28 (95% CI 0.22–0.36), and 7.77 (95% CI 5.27–11.44), respectively. Quality assessment for included studies was high, and Deeks’s funnel plot indicated that the possibility of publication bias was low (p = 0.64).

Conclusion

The EPE grading system demonstrated high sensitivity and moderate specificity, with a good inter-reader agreement. However, this scoring system needs more studies to be validated in clinical practice.
The c-Myc/TBX3 Axis Promotes Cellular Transformation of Sarcoma-Initiating Cells
Authors: Damerell Victoria , Ambele Melvin Anyasi , Salisbury Shanel , Neumann-Mufweba Alexis , Durandt Chrisna , Pepper Michael Sean , Prince Sharon
Published: January 2022

Sarcomas are highly aggressive cancers of mesenchymal origin whose clinical management is highly complex. This is partly due to a lack of understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning the transformation of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) which are presumed to be the sarcoma-initiating cells. c-Myc is amplified/overexpressed in a range of sarcomas where it has an established oncogenic role and there is evidence that it contributes to the malignant transformation of MSCs. T-box transcription factor 3 (TBX3) is upregulated by c-Myc in a host of sarcoma subtypes where it promotes proliferation, tumor formation, migration, and invasion. This study investigated whether TBX3 is a c-Myc target in human MSCs (hMSCs) and whether overexpressing TBX3 in hMSCs can phenocopy c-Myc overexpression to promote malignant transformation. Using siRNA, qRT-PCR, luciferase reporter and chromatin-immunoprecipitation assays, we show that c-Myc binds and directly activates TBX3 transcription in hMSCs at a conserved E-box motif. When hMSCs were engineered to stably overexpress TBX3 using lentiviral gene transfer and the resulting cells characterised in 2D and 3D, the overexpression of TBX3 was shown to promote self-renewal, bypass senescence, and enhance proliferation which corresponded with increased levels of cell cycle progression markers (cyclin A, cyclin B1, CDK2) and downregulation of the p14ARF/MDM2/p53 tumor suppressor pathway. Furthermore, TBX3 promoted the migratory and invasive ability of hMSCs which associated with increased levels of markers of migration (Vimentin, SLUG, SNAIL, TWIST1) and invasion (MMP2, MMP9). Transcriptomic analysis revealed that genes upregulated upon TBX3 overexpression overlapped with c-myc targets, were involved in cell cycle progression, and were associated with sarcomagenesis. Together, the data described indicate that the c-Myc/TBX3 oncogenic molecular pathway may be a key mechanism that transforms hMSCs into sarcomas.
Pediatric Restrictive Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Ditaranto Raffaello , Caponetti Angelo Giuseppe , Ferrara Valentina , Parisi Vanda , Minnucci Matteo , Chiti Chiara , Baldassarre Riccardo , Di Nicola Federico , Bonetti Simone , Hasan Tammam , Potena Luciano , Galiè Nazzareno , Ragni Luca , Biagini Elena
Published: January 2022

Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) is the least frequent phenotype among pediatric heart muscle diseases, representing only 2.5–3% of all cardiomyopathies diagnosed during childhood. Pediatric RCM has a poor prognosis, high incidence of pulmonary hypertension (PH), thromboembolic events, and sudden death, is less amenable to medical or surgical treatment with high mortality rates. In this scenario, heart transplantation remains the only successful therapeutic option. Despite a shared hemodynamic profile, characterized by severe diastolic dysfunction and restrictive ventricular filling, with normal ventricle ejection fraction and wall thickness, RCM recognizes a broad etiological spectrum, consisting of genetic/familial and acquired causes, each of which has a distinct pathophysiology and natural course. Hence, the aim of this review is to cover the causes, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, treatment, and prognosis of pediatric RCM.
Safety Profile of Monoclonal Antibody Compared With Traditional Anticancer Drugs: An Analysis of Henan Province Spontaneous Reporting System Database
Authors: Jiao Zhiming , Wang Ganyi , Feng Zhanchun , Yan Ziqi , Zhang Jinwen , Li Gang , Wang Qianyu , Feng Da
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Monoclonal antibody (mAb) is an important treatment option for cancer patients and has received widespread attention in recent years. In this context, a comparative safety evaluation of mAbs and traditional anticancer drugs in real-world is warranted.

Methods: ADR reports submitted to Henan Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Center from 2016 to 2020 for individuals taking antineoplastic drugs were included. Data were analyzed with respect to demographic characteristics, disease types, polypharmacy, past history of ADRs, system organ class, name of suspected drugs per ADR report, severity, result, impact on the primary disease, and biosimilars.

Results: A total of 15,910 ADR reports related to antineoplastic drugs were collected, 575 (3.61%) cases were related to mAbs. Female had more reports of ADRs than male. The ADRs of non-mAbs mainly occurred in 1–3 days after injection (4,929, 32.15%), whereas those of mAbs mainly occurred on the same day (297, 51.65%). Serious ADRs accounted for 30.26% (n = 174) of mAb-related reports and 34.46% (n = 5,285; four death cases) of non-mAb-related reports, respectively. A total of 495 (86.08%) reports were related to the branded drugs of mAbs. In general, our findings indicate that the female, the population aged 60–79 years, people with a single disease, people who have no ADRs in the past and people who have received treatment regimens were less likely to be affected by the primary disease after receiving mAbs therapy. The signal mining method produced 14 signals, only Sintilimab-Hepatic failure was off-label ADR.

Conclusion: This study partly confirmed the safety profile of mAbs. It is unlikely to affect groups such as the female, the population aged 60-79 years, people with a single disease, people who have no ADRs in the past and people who have received treatment regimens. Combined drugs have little effect on the primary disease. By conducting signal mining method, 14 signals were produced, and only one of them was off-label ADR.
Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad (Bitter Apple Fruit): Promising Traditional Uses, Pharmacological Effects, Aspects, and Potential Applications
Authors: Li Qin-Yuan , Munawar Mahzaib , Saeed Muhammad , Shen Ji-Qiang , Khan Muhammad Sajjad , Noreen Sobia , Alagawany Mahmoud , Naveed Muhammad , Madni Asadullah , Li Chang-Xing
Published: January 2022

Health consciousness and increased knowledge about the side effects of synthetic drugs have enhanced interest in traditional medicines. Medicinal plants offer cures for various diseases, leading to improved living standards. This has brought ethnomedicinal studies into the spotlight and increased demand for herb-based medicines.Citrullus colocynthisis an herbaceous plant containing an abundance of nutrients that play a key role in the improvement of wellbeing.C. colocynthishas many biological properties, such as antioxidative, hypoglycemic, antibacterial, anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, gastrointestinal tract, reproduction, protection, anti-microbial, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antineoplastic, profibrinolytic, anti-allergic, pesticidal, and immune-stimulatory. There are numerous bioactive compounds like cucurbitacin, flavonoids, and polyphenols inC. colocynthisthat give it medicinal properties. Herein, we have extensively compiled, reviewed, and analyzed significant information onC. colocynthhisfrom the best published available evidence in PubMed, Scopus (Embase), Web of Science (Web of Knowledge), Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, etc. Scientific literature evidenced that owing to the bioactive constituents, including cucurbitacin, polyphenols, flavonoids, and other potent molecules,C. colocynthishas many pharmacological and physiological functions. It possesses multi-beneficial applications in treating various disorders of humans and animals. So, the primary purpose of this comprehensive review is to provide an overview of the findings of positive impacts and risks ofC. colocynthisconsumption on human health, especially in poultry and veterinary fields. In the future, this narrative article will be aware of discoveries about the potential of this promising natural fruit and its bioactive compounds as the best nutraceuticals and therapeutic drugs in veterinary and human medicine.
Activation of AMPA Receptors in the Lateral Habenula Produces Anxiolytic Effects in a Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Zhang Jin , Wang Xiaobing , Bernardi Rick E. , Ju Jun , Wei Shoupeng , Gong Zhiting
Published: January 2022

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is commonly accompanied with anxiety disorder, however, the mechanisms underlying PD-mediated anxiety remain elusive. The lateral habenula (LHb) is a critical brain region that influences the activity of the monoaminergic system in the midbrain and consequently modulates anxiety. Most neurons in the LHb express AMPA receptors (AMPARs). The PD model for the pharmacological intervention of AMPA receptors was established by the unilateral lesion of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA).

Methods: The AMPAR agonist (S)-AMPA and antagonist NBQX were microinjected into the LHb, respectively, to examine whether anxiety-like behaviors were altered in sham-operated and SNc-lesion rats, measured with the paradigms of the open-field test (OPT) and elevated plus maze (EPM). Furthermore, dopamine (DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) were measured using in vivo microdialysis immediately following the injections of (S)-AMPA and NBQX into the LHb.

Results: Activation of LHb AMPA receptors by (S)-AMPA produced anxiolytic-like behaviors and enhanced the extracellular DA and 5-HT in the BLA. Conversely, NBQX induced anxiety-like effects and suppressed the extracellular DA and 5-HT in the BLA. In addition, the minimal doses inducing the effects in the SNc-lesion rats were lower than those in sham-operated rats.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the effects of AMPA receptors in the LHb on anxiety-like behaviors likely involve the extracellular levels of DA and 5-HT in the BLA. The present results may improve our understanding of the neuropathology and/or treatment of PD.
Resveratrol Relaxes Human Gastric Smooth Muscles Through High Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channel in a Nitric Oxide-independent Manner
Authors: Modzelewska Beata , Drygalski Krzysztof , Hady Hady Razak , Kiełczewska Aleksandra , Chomentowski Andrzej , Koryciński Krzysztof , Głuszyńska Paulina , Kleszczewski Tomasz
Published: January 2022

Resveratrol, as a polyphenolic compound that can be isolated from plants, and also a component of red wine has broad beneficial pharmacological properties. The aim was to investigate the role of nitric oxide and potassium channels in resveratrol-induced relaxation of human gastric smooth muscle. Gastric tissues were obtained from patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy for severe obesity (n = 10 aged 21–48; BMI 48.21 ± 1.14). The mechanical activity from the muscle strips was detected under isometric conditions as the response to increasing concentrations of resveratrol before and after different pharmacological treatments. Resveratrol caused an observable, dose-dependent gastric muscle relaxation. The maximal response caused by the highest concentration of resveratrol was 83.49 ± 2.85% (p < 0.0001) of the control. Preincubation with L-NNA, L-NAME, or ODQ did not prevent the resveratrol-induced relaxation. Apamin, glibenclamide, 4AP or tamoxifen, did not inhibit the relaxing effect of resveratrol, as well. In turn, blocking BKCa by TEA, iberiotoxin, or charybdotoxin resulted in inhibition of resveratrol-induced relaxation (91.08 ± 2.07, p < 0.05; 95.60 ± 1.52, p < 0.01 and 89.58 ± 1.98, p < 0.05, respectively). This study provides the first observation that the relaxant effects of resveratrol in human gastric muscle strips occur directly through BKCa channels and independently of nitric oxide signaling pathways. Furthermore, there is considerable potential for further extensive clinical studies with resveratrol as an effective new drug or health supplement to treat gastrointestinal dyspepsia and other gastric hypermotility disorders.
Fast Popularity Value Calculation of Virtual Cryptocurrency Trading Stage Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Zhu Tong , Liao Chenyang , Zhou Ziyang , Li Xinyu , Zhang Qingfu
Published: January 2022

This paper proposes a new definition method of currency, which further divides the current hot digital currency according to its legitimacy, encryption, centralization, and other characteristics. Among these, we are mainly interested in virtual cryptocurrencies. Virtual cryptocurrency is one of the application directions of blockchain technology. Its essence is a distributed shared ledger database, which generally has the characteristics of decentralization and non-tampering. The technologies supporting the practical application of virtual cryptocurrencies involve multiple scientific and technological fields such as mathematical algorithms, cryptography, Internet communication, and computer software. Since the launch of the first virtual cryptocurrency bitcoin in 2009, it has developed rapidly worldwide. As of August 1, 2021, more than 11,570 virtual cryptocurrencies have been publicly issued and traded globally, with a total value of over $1.68 trillion. This paper proposes the virtual cryptocurrency trading popularity value system as a standardized index for quantitative analysis of virtual cryptocurrency trading, and the virtual cryptocurrency trading index system as a barometer of the virtual cryptocurrency trading market. It has contributed schemes to the analysis of the market rules of virtual cryptocurrency transactions and the realization and early warning of abnormal virtual cryptocurrency transactions, which are the two main hot research directions of virtual cryptocurrency. To be specific, the popularity value of virtual cryptocurrency transactions provides parameters for analyzing individual virtual cryptocurrencies, and the popularity index of virtual cryptocurrency transactions provides parameters for analyzing the virtual cryptocurrency trading market, so as to prevent major risks of virtual cryptocurrency transactions.
Recent Progress in Chiral Topological Quantum Interface
Authors: Jiang Ping , Ma Na , Qiao Xiaozhen , Zhang Hui
Published: January 2022

Chiral quantum optics and Topological photonics are both emerging field of research, which have attracted great attention in recent years. Chiral quantum optics provides a new approach to achieve full quantum control of light-matter interaction in a novel manner, which has potential possibility for the implementation of complex quantum information networks. Meanwhile, topological photonics provides a novel route for designing and realizing optical device with unprecedented functionality, such as robust light propagation, the immunity to various structural imperfection, back-scattering suppression as well as unidirectional transmission. The application of topological photonics in chiral quantum optics will promote the whole performance of integrated quantum device with topological protection. In this review, we summarize the progress of chiral quantum optics and topological photonics firstly. Then, we mainly focus on the research of topological chiral edge states based on photonic quantum spin-Hall effect and photonic quantum valley-Hall effect. Furthermore, we introduce the recent work of chiral topological quantum interface formed by embedding quantum dot into the interface between two topologically distinct photonic crystal structures. At last, we give short outlook on the future development direction and prospect for application of topological chiral quantum interface.
Quantitative Analysis of the Cytoskeleton’s Role in Inward Rectifier KIR2.1 Forward and Backward Trafficking
Authors: Li Encan , Loen Vera , van Ham Willem B. , Kool Willy , van der Heyden Marcel A. G. , Takanari Hiroki
Published: January 2022

Alteration of the inward rectifier current IK1, carried by KIR2.1 channels, affects action potential duration, impacts resting membrane stability and associates with cardiac arrhythmias. Congenital and acquired KIR2.1 malfunction frequently associates with aberrant ion channel trafficking. Cellular processes underlying trafficking are intertwined with cytoskeletal function. The extent to which the cytoskeleton is involved in KIR2.1 trafficking processes is unknown. We aimed to quantify the dependence of KIR2.1 trafficking on cytoskeleton function. GFP or photoconvertible Dendra2 tagged KIR2.1 constructs were transfected in HEK293 or HeLa cells. Photoconversion of the Dendra2 probe at the plasma membrane and subsequent live imaging of trafficking processes was performed by confocal laser-scanning microscopy. Time constant of green fluorescent recovery (τg,s) represented recruitment of new KIR2.1 at the plasma membrane. Red fluorescent decay (τr,s) represented internalization of photoconverted KIR2.1. Patch clamp electrophysiology was used to quantify IKIR2.1. Biochemical methods were used for cytoskeleton isolation and detection of KIR2.1-cytoskeleton interactions. Cytochalasin B (20 μM), Nocodazole (30 μM) and Dyngo-4a (10 nM) were used to modify the cytoskeleton. Chloroquine (10 μM, 24 h) was used to impair KIR2.1 breakdown. Cytochalasin B and Nocodazole, inhibitors of actin and tubulin filament formation respectively, strongly inhibited the recovery of green fluorescence at the plasma membrane suggestive for inhibition of KIR2.1 forward trafficking [τg,s 13 ± 2 vs. 131 ± 31* and 160 ± 40* min, for control, Cytochalasin B and Nocodazole, respectively (*p < 0.05 vs. control)]. Dyngo-4a, an inhibitor of dynamin motor proteins, strongly slowed the rate of photoconverted channel internalization, whereas Nocodazole and Cytochalasin B had less effect [τr,s 20 ± 2 vs. 87 ± 14*, 60 ± 16 and 64 ± 20 min (*p < 0.05 vs. control)]. Cytochalasin B treatment (20 μM, 24 h) inhibited IKIR2.1. Chloroquine treatment (10 μM, 24 h) induced intracellular aggregation of KIR2.1 channels and enhanced interaction with the actin/intermediate filament system (103 ± 90 fold; p < 0.05 vs. control). Functional actin and tubulin cytoskeleton systems are essential for forward trafficking of KIR2.1 channels, whereas initial backward trafficking relies on a functional dynamin system. Chronic disturbance of the actin system inhibits KIR2.1 currents. Internalized KIR2.1 channels become recruited to the cytoskeleton, presumably in lysosomes.
Electro-characteristics of Myocardial Pouches and Reduction of the Frequency of Steam Pops During Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Luo Jianfeng , Guo Fei , Zhu Hongjun , Su Hao , Wu Yuanbo , Zhu Jing , Zhang Can , Xu Jian
Published: January 2022

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) effectively treats arrhythmia. Steam pop (SP) is a dangerous complication of RFA, which can lead to pericardial tamponade or even death.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the electro-characteristics of myocardial pouches, and the relationship between SP, pouch, and impedance.

Methods: Swine myocardium was divided into the pouch group and smooth myocardium group. Continuous RFA at 50 W was applied. The initial impedance reduction within the first 3 s of ablation and the time from the start of ablation to SP were recorded. After enabling the delta impedance cutoff function, RFA was performed at different percentage of delta impedance (PDI) cutoff thresholds.

Results: The impedance was higher for the pouch myocardium compared to the smooth myocardium (123.22 ± 8.63 Ω and 95.75 ± 4.75 Ω, respectively; p < 0.001). The RFA duration before SPs was shorter in the pouch group compared to the smooth myocardium group [9 s (interquartile range, IQR: 6.25–13 s) and 33 s (IQR: 26.25–40.75 s), respectively; p < 0.001]. Within the first 3 s of RFA, impedance reduction (24.65 ± 6.57 Ω and 12.78 ± 3.35 Ω, respectively; p < 0.001) and PDI [19.18% (IQR: 16.39–24.20%) and 12.96% (IQR: 11.17–14.39%), respectively; p < 0.001] were greater in the pouch group compared to the smooth myocardium group. A PDI of 15% and delta time of 3 s effectively reduced the frequency of SPs without seriously affecting RFA use.

Conclusion: SPs occur more frequently in the pouch area during RFA. Appropriate delta impedance cutoff settings (PDI: 15%; delta time: 3 s) can reduce the frequency of SPs and improve the RFA safety.
Chemical and Structural Responses to Downregulated p-Hydroxycinnamoyl-Coenzyme A: Quinate/Shikimate p-Hydroxycinnamoyltransferase in Poplar Cell Walls
Authors: Su Minglei , Liu Yingli , Lyu Jianxiong , Zhao Shutang , Wang Yurong
Published: January 2022

Unraveling the impact of lignin reduction on cell wall construction of poplar stems is important for accurate understanding the regulatory role of biosynthetic genes. However, few cell-level studies have been conducted on the changes in lignin, other important cell wall composition, and the structural properties of transgenic poplar stems at different developmental stages. In this work, the content and microdistributions of cell wall composition as well as the morphological characteristics of cells were studied for p-hydroxycinnamoyl-coenzyme A:quinate/shikimate p-hydroxycinnamoyltransferase (HCT) downregulated transgenic poplar 84K (Populus alba × P. glandulosa cl. ‘84k’) at different developmental stages. Results show that the lignin contents of the upper, middle, and basal parts of HCT transgenic poplar stems were significantly decreased by 10.84, 7.40, and 7.75%, respectively; and the cellulose contents increased by 8.20, 6.45, and 3.31%, respectively, compared with the control group. The cellulose/lignin ratio of HCT transgenic poplars was therefore increased, especially in the upper sections, where it was 23.2% higher. Raman results indicate the appearance of p-hydroxyphenyl units (H) and a decrease in the ratio of syringyl/guaiacyl (S/G) lignin monomers in fiber cell walls of HCT transgenic poplars. In addition, microstructure observations revealed that the fiber and vessel cells of the HCT transgenic poplars exhibited thin cell walls and large lumen diameters. Compared with the control group, the cell wall thickness of fiber and vessel cells decreased by 6.50 and 10.93% on average, respectively. There was a 13.6% decrease in the average ratio of the cell wall thickness to the lumen diameter and an increase in fiber length and width of 5.60 and 6.11%, respectively. In addition, downregulation of HCT did not change the orientation of cellulosic microfibrils, but it led to an 11.1% increase of the cellulose crystallinity in cell walls compared to the control poplars. The information obtained herein could lead to a better understanding of the effects of genetic modifications on wood cell walls.
Responses of Barley to High Ambient Temperature Are Modulated by Vernalization
Authors: Ochagavía Helga , Kiss Tibor , Karsai Ildikó , Casas Ana M. , Igartua Ernesto
Published: January 2022

Ambient temperatures are increasing due to climate change. Cereal crops development and production will be affected consequently. Flowering time is a key factor for adaptation of small grain cereals and, therefore, exploring developmental responses of barley to rising temperatures is required. In this work, we studied phasic growth, and inflorescence traits related to yield, in eight near isogenic lines of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) differing at the VRN-H1, VRN-H2 and PPD-H1 genes, representing different growth habits. The lines were grown in contrasting vernalization treatments, under two temperature regimes (18 and 25°C), in long days. Lines with recessive ppd-H1 presented delayed development compared to lines with the sensitive PPD-H1 allele, across the two growth phases considered. High temperature delayed flowering in all unvernalized plants, and in vernalized spring barleys carrying the insensitive ppd-H1 allele, whilst it accelerated flowering in spring barleys with the sensitive PPD-H1 allele. This finding evidenced an interaction between PPD-H1, temperature and vernalization. At the high temperature, PPD-H1 lines in spring backgrounds (VRN-H1-7) yielded more, whereas lines with ppd-H1 were best in vrn-H1 background. Our study revealed new information that will support breeding high-yielding cultivars with specific combinations of major adaptation genes tailored to future climatic conditions.
Classification and Association Analysis of Gerbera (Gerbera hybrida) Flower Color Traits
Authors: Zhou Yiwei , Yin Mao , Abbas Farhat , Sun Yue , Gao Ting , Yan Fulong , Li Xinyue , Yu Yunyi , Yue Yuechong , Yu Rangcai , Fan Yanping
Published: January 2022

Floral color plays a crucial role in plant life such as plant-pollinator interactions and modifying the abiotic environment of reproductive structures. In the current study, 123 gerbera accessions were divided into six color groups (white, yellow, orange, pink, red, and purple), based on Royal Horticultural Society Color Chart calibration and colorimeter measurement. Partial least squares discriminant analysis showed that the white group was mainly affected by L* value, a* value, C value, and total anthocyanin contents, while the yellow group was positively correlated with L* value, b* value, and total anthocyanin contents. Similarly, the orange group was mainly affected by b* value and total carotenoid contents, whereas the pink group was positively correlated with L* and h values. Furthermore, the red group was affected by L* value, a* value, C value, and total anthocyanin contents, whilst the purple group was mainly distributed by L* value, a* value, b* value, and total anthocyanin contents. Based on ‘Jin Xiang’ transcriptome data, 14,106 expressed sequence tag (EST)-SSR markers were identified and 48 pairs of primers (19 newly developed primers) were screened. Population genetic structure, neighbor-joining clustering, and principal coordinate analysis showed that 123 gerbera accessions could be divided into two groups. EST-SSR-based association analysis showed that 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 2, and 1 significant loci were related to L*, a*, b*, C, and h, total carotenoid, and total anthocyanin contents, respectively. These results provide an important reference for flower color classification and genetic improvement of gerbera.
The Photoperiod: Handling and Causing Stress in Plants
Authors: Roeber Venja M. , Schmülling Thomas , Cortleven Anne
Published: January 2022

The photoperiod, which is the length of the light period in the diurnal cycle of 24 h, is an important environmental signal. Plants have evolved sensitive mechanisms to measure the length of the photoperiod. Photoperiod sensing enables plants to synchronize developmental processes, such as the onset of flowering, with a specific time of the year, and enables them to alleviate the impact of environmental stresses occurring at the same time every year. During the last years, the importance of the photoperiod for plant responses to abiotic and biotic stresses has received increasing attention. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the signaling pathways involved in the photoperiod-dependent regulation of responses to abiotic (freezing, drought, osmotic stress) and biotic stresses. A central role of GIGANTEA (GI), which is a key player in the regulation of photoperiod-dependent flowering, in stress responses is highlighted. Special attention is paid to the role of the photoperiod in regulating the redox state of plants. Furthermore, an update on photoperiod stress, which is caused by sudden alterations in the photoperiod, is given. Finally, we will review and discuss the possible use of photoperiod-induced stress as a sustainable resource to enhance plant resistance to biotic stress in horticulture.
Karyotype Differentiation in Cultivated Chickpea Revealed by Oligopainting Fluorescence in situ Hybridization
Authors: Doležalová Alžběta , Sládeková Lucia , Šimoníková Denisa , Holušová Kateřina , Karafiátová Miroslava , Varshney Rajeev K. , Doležel Jaroslav , Hřibová Eva
Published: January 2022

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the main sources of plant proteins in the Indian subcontinent and West Asia, where two different morphotypes, desi and kabuli, are grown. Despite the progress in genome mapping and sequencing, the knowledge of the chickpea genome at the chromosomal level, including the long-range molecular chromosome organization, is limited. Earlier cytogenetic studies in chickpea suffered from a limited number of cytogenetic landmarks and did not permit to identify individual chromosomes in the metaphase spreads or to anchor pseudomolecules to chromosomes in situ. In this study, we developed a system for fast molecular karyotyping for both morphotypes of cultivated chickpea. We demonstrate that even draft genome sequences are adequate to develop oligo-fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) barcodes for the identification of chromosomes and comparative analysis among closely related chickpea genotypes. Our results show the potential of oligo-FISH barcoding for the identification of structural changes in chromosomes, which accompanied genome diversification among chickpea cultivars. Moreover, oligo-FISH barcoding in chickpea pointed out some problematic, most probably wrongly assembled regions of the pseudomolecules of both kabuli and desi reference genomes. Thus, oligo-FISH appears as a powerful tool not only for comparative karyotyping but also for the validation of genome assemblies.
Arabidopsis Glutathione-S-Transferases GSTF11 and GSTU20 Function in Aliphatic Glucosinolate Biosynthesis
Authors: Zhang Aiqin , Luo Rui , Li Jiawen , Miao Rongqing , An Hui , Yan Xiufeng , Pang Qiuying
Published: January 2022

Glutathione (GSH) conjugation with intermediates is required for the biosynthesis of glucosinolate (GSL) by serving as a sulfur supply. Glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) primarily work on GSH conjugation, suggesting their involvement in GSL metabolism. Although several GSTs, including GSTF11 and GSTU20, have been recently postulated to act in GSL biosynthesis, molecular evidence is lacking. Here, we demonstrated that GSTF11 and GSTU20 play non-redundant, although partially overlapping, roles in aliphatic GSL biosynthesis. In addition, GSTU20 plays a more important role than GSTF11, which is manifested by the greater loss of aliphatic GSLs associated with GSTU20 mutant and a greater number of differentially expressed genes in GSTU20 mutant compared to GSTF11 mutant. Moreover, a double mutation leads to a greater aggregate loss of aliphatic GSLs, suggesting that GSTU20 and GSTF11 may function in GSL biosynthesis in a dosage-dependent manner. Together, our results provide direct evidence that GSTU20 and GSTF11 are critically involved in aliphatic GSL biosynthesis, filling the knowledge gap that has been speculated in recent decades.