bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facile Preparation of SnO2/CuO Nanocomposites as Electrocatalysts for Energy-Efficient Hybrid Water Electrolysis in the Presence of Ethanol
Authors: Pech-Rodríguez Wilian Jesús , García-Lezama Héctor Manuel , Sahin Nihat Ege
Published: June 2023

Currently, great importance has been assigned to designing cutting-edge materials for oxygen and hydrogen generation from hybrid water electrolysis as an ideal fuel alternative in energy-conversion devices. This work reports on the electrochemical organic molecule oxidation in alkaline media, intending to promote water electrolysis at early onset potential with more current densities using Sn-Cu oxidized heterostructures. The electrocatalysts were easily and rapidly synthesized by the microwave-heated synthesis process in the presence of a small quantity of ethylene glycol. The X-ray diffraction and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy analyses confirm the presence of CuO and SnO2 phases, which significantly improves the electrochemical activity of the composite toward the Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) in alkaline media in the presence of 1.0 mol L−1 ethanol, yielding 8.0 mA cm−2 at 1.6 V. The charge transfer resistance (Rct) was determined using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and the result shows that the Rct of SnO2/CuO drastically decreased. The findings in this work highlight that the designed oxidized heterostructures with non-noble metals are promising candidates for energy conversion devices and sensors. Furthermore, this work confirms the advantages of using an assisted microwave heating process to develop an advanced SnO2/CuO composite with the potential to be used in electro-oxidation processes.
Highly Efficient and Effective Process Design for High-Pressure CO2 Photoreduction over Supported Catalysts
Authors: Tommasi Matteo , Conte Francesco , Alam Mohammad Imteyaz , Ramis Gianguido , Rossetti Ilenia
Published: June 2023

The photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into solar fuel is considered a promising approach to solving the energy crisis and mitigating the environmental pollution caused by anthropogenic CO2 emission. Some powder photocatalysts have been demonstrated as efficient, but their drifting properties, along with difficult separation (catalyst and product), make continuous mode reaction very challenging, particularly in the liquid phase. In order to make this process commercially viable and economically more efficient, we have developed a simple and scalable method for immobilizing TiO2 P25 over the surface of glass slides using an organic-based surfactant. Improved adhesion properties and the homogeneous dispersion of catalyst nanoparticles were achieved. A holder was designed with 3D printing technology in such a way that it can hold up to six slides that can be dipped simultaneously into the suspension or solution of desired materials for a uniform and homogeneous deposition. The resulting surfaces of the dip-coated materials (e.g., TiO2 P25) were further modified by adding metallic nanoparticles and thoroughly characterized via XRD, DRS UV–Vis, SEM, and SEM–EDX. Photocatalytic tests have been performed for two major applications, viz., hydrogen production via the photoreforming of glucose and the photoreduction of CO2 into different solar fuels. The latter tests were performed in a specially designed, high-pressure reactor with Ag/P25 supported catalysts, which exhibited about three times higher formic acid productivity (ca. 20 mol/kgcat h) compared to the dispersed catalyst, with enhanced stability and recoverability. It is to note that catalysts deposited on the glass slides can easily be recovered and the materials did not show any weight loss. To the best of our knowledge, the obtained formic acid productivity is highest among the published literature.
Direct Steady-State Calculation of Electromagnetic Devices Using Field-Circuit Models
Authors: Jaraczewski Marcin , Sobczyk Tadeusz J. , Warzecha Adam
Published: June 2023

Field-circuit models are very often used to model electromagnetic devices with conductive and non-linear magnetic materials. The numerical calculations of the field in the magnetic material must be combined with an equation of an external coil placed in the magnetic circuit. This means that the partial differential equations of the electromagnetic field in non-linear conductive materials and the non-linear ordinary differential equations must be solved together. Effective algorithms for solving such problems are still being developed. The article presents an algorithm directly providing the steady state solution without the simulation of transients. The basic assumption is that the solution can be predicted as a periodic time and space function, which is represented by appropriate Fourier series. The developed algorithm uses discrete partial differential operators for time and space derivatives. It allows us to create finite difference equations directly from the field and circuit equations, which take the form of algebraic equations, generally non-linear. This is a unique approach developed by us, which till now did not exist (and is not mentioned) in the literature. That algorithm is tested on a simple case of a solenoid coil with a ferromagnetic and conductive cylindrical core, in 2D space of radius and time. The calculation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed approach both qualitatively, with regard to physical phenomena in ferromagnetic and conductive material, and quantitatively, in comparison with the results from specialized commercial software.
Landscape Democracy and the Implementation of Renewable Energy Facilities
Authors: Arler Finn , Sperling Karl , Borch Kristian
Published: June 2023

The internationally accepted goal of eliminating climate gas emissions implies substantial investments in renewable energy (RE) facilities. This will inevitably lead to major impacts on landscapes. Landscape concerns linked to RE facilities are already leading to controversies in many local communities. In this article, we focus on the question of landscape democracy related to the establishment of RE facilities. Based on recommendations from the European Landscape Convention, an analytical framework is presented identifying three main dimensions of landscape democracy, followed by an overview of arrangements, procedures, and methods that are or may be used to encourage democracy. The procedures and methods are analyzed based on examples from Denmark and Norway. This is followed by an analysis of decision levels with a special focus on the principle of subsidiarity. Finally, recommendations are presented to strengthen landscape democracy in relation to the installation of RE facilities.
Growth Response of European Beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and Silver Fir (Abies alba Mill.) to Climate Factors along the Carpathian Massive
Authors: Adamič Pia Caroline , Levanič Tom , Hanzu Mihail , Čater Matjaž
Published: June 2023

European forests are becoming increasingly threatened by climate change and more frequent droughts. The likely responses of species to climate change will vary, affecting their competitiveness, their existence, and consequently, forest management decisions and measures. We determined the influence of climate on the radial growth of European beech and silver fir along the Carpathians to find similarities between the two species and the main differences. Along the Carpathian Mountains, seven sites with mature fir–beech stands above 800 m above sea level were selected and analyzed. Our study confirmed different responses depending on species and location. A more pronounced response of tree growth to climate was observed on the eastern side of the Carpathians, while it was less expressed or even absent on the southern sites. Both beech and fir show better radial growth with higher precipitation in July and slower growth with higher average and maximum temperatures in June of the current year. Fir demonstrates a positive correlation between radial growth and temperature in winter, while beech demonstrates a negative correlation between radial growth and temperature in summer. In the 1951–1960 decade, the average tree ring widths in fir and beech were largest at the southern sites compared to the other sites, but since 2011, the southern sites have had the lowest increase while northern sites have had the largest. Both species respond differently to climate and are likely to follow different competitive paths in the future.
Power Indices under Specific Multicriteria Status
Authors: Liao Yu-Hsien
Published: June 2023

By considering the maximal efficacy among allocation vectors, we define two power indices under specific multicriteria conditions. Additionally, we introduce a reduction approach to the axiomatic framework for these power indices. Furthermore, we propose an alternative formulation that focuses on discrepancy mapping. Based on reduction and discrepancy mapping, we also provide two dynamic procedures.
Otological Features of Patients with Musculocontractural Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome Caused by Pathogenic Variants in CHST14 (mcEDS-CHST14)
Authors: Kawakita Masayuki , Iwasaki Satoshi , Moteki Hideaki , Nishio Shin-ya , Kosho Tomoki , Usami Shin-ichi
Published: June 2023

Musculocontractural Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) caused by pathogenic variants in CHST14 (mcEDS-CHST14) is a subtype of EDS characterized by multisystem malformations and progressive fragility-related manifestations. A recent international collaborative study showed that 55% of mcEDS-CHST14 patients had hearing loss (HL), more commonly of the high-frequency type. Here, we report the first systemic investigation of the otological features of patients with this disorder based on the world’s largest cohort at Shinshu University Hospital. Nine patients [18 ears; four male and five female patients; mean age, 18 years old (range, 10–28)] underwent comprehensive otological evaluation: audiogram, distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) test, and tympanometry. The audiogram, available in all 18 ears, showed HL in eight patients (8/9, 89%) and in 14 ears (14/18, 78%): bilateral in six patients (6/9, 67%) and unilateral in two (2/9, 22%); mild in eight ears (8/18, 44%) and moderate in six (6/18, 33%); and high-frequency HL in five (5/18, 28%) and low-frequency HL in five (5/18, 28%). An air-bone gap was detected in one ear (1/18, 6%). DPOAE was available in 13 ears, with the presence of a response in five (5/13, 38%) and the absence in eight (8/13, 62%), including in three ears of normal hearing. Tympanometry results were available in 12 ears: Ad type in nine (9/12, 75%) and As type in one (1/12, 8.3%). Patients with mcEDS-CHST14 had a high prevalence of HL, typically sensorineural and bilateral, with mild to moderate severity, of high-frequency or low-frequency type, and sometimes with no DPOAE response. The pathophysiology underlying HL might be complex, presumably related to alterations of the tectorial membrane and/or the basilar membrane of Corti associated with disorganized collagen fibril networks. Regular and careful check-ups of hearing using multiple modalities are recommended for mcEDS-CHST14 patients.
Polymorphism, Genetic Effect, and Association with Egg-Laying Performance of Chahua Chickens Matrix Metalloproteinases 13 Promoter
Authors: Du Yanli , Cao Changwei , Liu Yong , Zi Xiannian , He Yang , Shi Hongmei , Zhao Jinbo , Ge Changrong , Wang Kun
Published: June 2023

Matrix metalloproteinases are a group of proteases involved in the regulation of ovarian follicular development and ovulation. Among the different MMPs, MMP13 is known to play an important role in reproduction. Therefore, this study aimed to screen the molecular genetic markers of the MMP13 gene that affect the egg-laying performance of Chahua chickens. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing were performed in the 5′ regulation region of the MMP13 gene to detect loci significantly related to the egg-laying performance of Chahua chickens. A double fluorescence reporting system, quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR), and Western blotting were used to study whether gene expression was regulated by identified sites, providing a theoretical basis to improve egg production in Chahua chickens. The results revealed six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; A-1887T, T-1889C, A-1890T, T-2252C, T-2329C, and C-2360A) in the promoter region of the MMP13 gene. Further analysis revealed that hens with T-1890-C-1889-T-1887/T-1890-C-1889-T-1887 (mutant type, MT) had an earlier age at first egg (AFE) than hens with A-1890-T-1889-A-1887/A-1890-T-1889-A-1887 (wild type, WT; p < 0.05). RT-qPCR showed that the relative expression level of the MMP13 gene in the ovarian tissues of individuals with the mutation was higher than that of individuals with the wild gene (p < 0.05). Western blot results confirmed higher levels of the MMP13 protein in MT ovaries compared to those in WT ovaries. Thus, this study suggests that mutation sites on the MMP13 promoter may affect gene expression. In conclusion, the MMP13 gene in Chahua chickens may be significant for egg-laying performance, and the polymorphism in its promoter region could be used as a molecular marker to improve egg-laying performance.
Exploring the Influence of Growth-Associated Host Genetics on the Initial Gut Microbiota in Horses
Authors: Lee Jongan , Kang Yong-Jun , Kim Yoo-Kyung , Choi Jae-Young , Shin Sang-Min , Shin Moon-Cheol
Published: June 2023

The influences of diet and environmental factors on gut microbial profiles have been widely acknowledged; however, the specific roles of host genetics remain uncertain. To unravel host genetic effects, we raised 47 Jeju crossbred (Jeju × Thoroughbred) foals that exhibited higher genetic diversity. Foals were raised under identical environmental conditions and diets. Microbial composition revealed that Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Spirochaetes were the predominant phyla. We identified 31 host–microbiome associations by utilizing 47,668 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 734 taxa with quantitative trait locus (QTL) information related to horse growth. The taxa involved in 31 host–microbiome associations were functionally linked to carbohydrate metabolism, energy metabolic processes, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and lactic acid production. Abundances of these taxa were affected by specific SNP genotypes. Most growth-associated SNPs are found between genes. The rs69057439 and rs69127732 SNPs are located within the introns of the VWA8 and MFSD6 genes, respectively. These genes are known to affect energy balance and metabolism. These discoveries emphasize the significant effect of host SNPs on the development of the intestinal microbiome during the initial phases of life and provide insights into the influence of gut microbial composition on horse growth.
Low-Pass Genome Sequencing-Based Detection of Paternity: Validation in Clinical Cytogenetics
Authors: Li Keying , Zhao Yilin , Chau Matthew Hoi Kin , Cao Ye , Leung Tak Yeung , Kwok Yvonne K. , Choy Kwong Wai , Dong Zirui
Published: June 2023

Submission of a non-biological parent together with a proband for genetic diagnosis would cause a misattributed parentage (MP), possibly leading to misinterpretation of the pathogenicity of genomic variants. Therefore, a rapid and cost-effective paternity/maternity test is warranted before genetic testing. Although low-pass genome sequencing (GS) has been widely used for the clinical diagnosis of germline structural variants, it is limited in paternity/maternity tests due to the inadequate read coverage for genotyping. Herein, we developed rapid paternity/maternity testing based on low-pass GS with trio-based and duo-based analytical modes provided. The optimal read-depth was determined as 1-fold per case regardless of sequencing read lengths, modes, and library construction methods by using 10 trios with confirmed genetic relationships. In addition, low-pass GS with different library construction methods and 1-fold read-depths were performed for 120 prenatal trios prospectively collected, and 1 trio was identified as non-maternity, providing a rate of MP of 0.83% (1/120). All results were further confirmed via quantitative florescent PCR. Overall, we developed a rapid, cost-effective, and sequencing platform-neutral paternity/maternity test based on low-pass GS and demonstrated the feasibility of its clinical use in confirming the parentage for genetic diagnosis.
Rhabdomyosarcoma Associated with Core Myopathy/Malignant Hyperthermia: Combined Effect of Germline Variants in RYR1 and ASPSCR1 May Play a Role
Authors: Andrade Pamela , Santos Joilson , Teixeira Anne , Sogari Vanessa , Almeida Michelle , Callegari Fabiano , Krepischi Ana , Oliveira Acary , Vainzof Mariz , Silva Helga
Published: June 2023

Rhabdomyosarcomas have been described in association with thyroid disease, dermatomyositis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and in muscular dystrophy models but not in patients with ryanodine receptor-1 gene (RYR1) pathogenic variants. We described here an 18-year-old male who reported a cervical nodule. Magnetic resonance images revealed a mass in the ethmoidal sinus corresponding to rhabdomyosarcoma. As his father died from malignant hyperthermia (MH), an in vitro contracture test was conducted and was positive for MH susceptibility. Muscle histopathological analysis in the biopsy showed the presence of cores. Molecular analysis using NGS sequencing identified germline variants in the RYR1 and ASPSCR1 (alveolar soft part sarcoma) genes. This report expands the spectrum of diseases associated with rhabdomyosarcomas and a possible differential diagnosis of soft tissue tumors in patients with RYR1 variants.
MAN5, a Glycosyl Hydrolase Superfamily Protein, Is a Key Factor Involved in Cyanide-Promoted Seed Germination in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Yu Lu-Lu , Xu Fei
Published: June 2023

Seed germination is the complex adaptive trait of higher plants influenced by a large number of genes and environmental factors. Numerous studies have been performed to better understand how germination is controlled by various environmental factors and applied chemicals, such as cyanide. However, still very little is known about the molecular mechanisms of how extrinsic signals regulate seed germination. Our and previous studies found that non-lethal cyanide treatment promotes seed germination, but the regulatory mechanism is unclear. In this study, we found that a low concentration of cyanide pretreatment significantly enhanced the expression of endo-β-mannanase 5 (MAN5) gene in Arabidopsis thaliana, and the mutation of this gene impaired cyanide-mediated seed germination. In contrast, overexpression of MAN5 gene enhanced Arabidopsis seed germination ability under both normal and salt stress conditions. Further studies showed that the expression of the MAN5 gene was negatively regulated by ABA insensitive 5 (ABI5); In abi5 mutant seeds, the expression of the MAN5 gene was increased and the seed germination rate was accelerated. Additionally, cyanide pretreatment markedly reduced the gene expression of ABI5 in Arabidopsis seeds. Taken together, our data support the involvement of MAN5 as a key gene in cyanide-mediated seed germination and confirm the role of ABI5 as a critical negative factor involved in cyanide-regulated MAN5 gene expression.
Holocene Sea Level Recorded by Beach Rocks at Ionian Coasts of Apulia (Italy)
Authors: Mastronuzzi Giuseppe , De Giosa Francesco , Quarta Gianluca , Pallara Mauro , Scardino Giovanni , Scicchitano Giovanni , Peluso Cosmo , Antropoli Carmine , Caporale Claudio , Demarte Maurizio
Published: June 2023

Beach rocks are located along many coasts of the Mediterranean basin. The early diagenesis environment and the mean sea level along the shoreline make these landforms useful in the reconstruction of relative sea-level changes and, in particular, as SLIPs (sea-level index points). The beach rocks surveyed along the Ionian coast of Apulia were found to be well preserved at three specific depth ranges: 6–9 m, 3–4 m, and from the foreshore to about 1.20 m. Morpho-bathymetric and dive surveys were performed to assess both the geometries and the extension of the submerged beach rocks. Samples were collected at these different depths in the localities of Lido Torretta, Campomarino di Maruggio, San Pietro in Bevagna, and Porto Cesareo. Bivalve shells were identified and isolated from the beach rock samples collected at a depth of 7 m; AMS dating provided a calibrated age of about 7.8 ka BP. Their morphology and petrological features, along with the time constraints, enabled us to (i) reconstruct the local sea-level curve during the Holocene, (ii) corroborate acquired knowledge of the relative sea-level history, and (iii) identify possible local vertical land movement (VLM).
The Moderating Effects of Self-Care on the Relationships between Perceived Stress, Job Burnout and Retention Intention in Clinical Nurses
Authors: Lee Seung-Hee , Joo Min-Ho
Published: June 2023

This study determines the importance of nurses’ self-care by identifying its effects as a moderating variable on the relationships between perceived stress, job burnout, and retention intention in clinical nurses. Hence, 174 clinical nurses who worked at two university hospitals and one general hospital located in Seoul, South Korea, participated in this study. As the hospitals required the use of recruitment notices, convenience sampling methods were adopted to recruit volunteers. The data were collected using the perceived stress scale, the burnout assessment tool, the nurse retention index, and the self-care assessment worksheet. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the general characteristics of participants, and t-test and analysis of variance were conducted for comparisons. Moderated multiple regression was conducted to verify the moderating effects of self-care on the relationships between perceived stress and retention intention and between job burnout and retention intention. The results revealed that the effect of perceived stress on retention intention and the moderating effect of self-care on the relationship between perceived stress and retention intention were not significant, whereas job burnout had a direct effect on retention intention, and self-care had a positive moderating effect on job burnout. Therefore, it is necessary to consider an instructional program on the importance of self-care and conduct campaign activities at the organizational level. Moreover, various support structures should be provided at the organizational level such that nurses can reduce their levels of job burnout.
The Association of Pain with Incident Falls in People with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Evidence from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Loughran Kirsti J. , Tough Daniel , Ryan Cormac G. , Wellburn Shaun , Martin Denis , Dixon John , Harrison Samantha L.
Published: June 2023

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have a higher prevalence of pain and a greater risk of falls than their healthy peers. As pain has been associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults, this study investigated the association between pain and falls in people with COPD compared to healthy controls. Data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing were used to establish an association between pain and falls when modelled with a generalised ordinal logistic regression and adjusted for sex, age, wealth, and education (complete case analysis only; n = 806 COPD, n = 3898 healthy controls). The odds were then converted to the predicted probabilities of falling. The predicted probability of falling for people with COPD was greater across all pain categories than for healthy controls; for COPD with (predicted probability % [95%CI]), no pain was 20% [17 to 25], with mild pain was 28% [18 to 38], with moderate pain was 28% [22 to 34] with severe pain was 39% [30 to 47] and for healthy controls with no pain was 17% [16 to 18], mild pain 22% [18 to 27], moderate pain 25% [20 to 29] and severe pain 27% [20 to 35]. The probability of falling increased across pain categories in individuals with COPD, with the most severe pain category at a nearly 40% probability of falling, indicating a potential interaction between COPD and pain.
Skin Wound following Irradiation Aggravates Radiation-Induced Brain Injury in a Mouse Model
Authors: Xiao Mang , Li Xianghong , Wang Li , Lin Bin , Zhai Min , Hull Lisa , Zizzo Alex , Cui Wanchang , Kiang Juliann G.
Published: June 2023

Radiation injury- and radiation combined with skin injury-induced inflammatory responses in the mouse brain were evaluated in this study. Female B6D2F1/J mice were subjected to a sham, a skin wound (SW), 9.5 Gy 60Co total-body gamma irradiation (RI), or 9.5 Gy RI combined with a skin puncture wound (RCI). Survival, body weight, and wound healing were tracked for 30 days, and mouse brain samples were collected on day 30 after SW, RI, RCI, and the sham control. Our results showed that RCI caused more severe animal death and body weight loss compared with RI, and skin wound healing was significantly delayed by RCI compared to SW. RCI and RI increased the chemokines Eotaxin, IP-10, MIG, 6Ckine/Exodus2, MCP-5, and TIMP-1 in the brain compared to SW and the sham control mice, and the Western blot results showed that IP-10 and p21 were significantly upregulated in brain cells post-RI or -RCI. RI and RCI activated both astrocytes and endothelial cells in the mouse brain, subsequently inducing blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakage, as shown by the increased ICAM1 and GFAP proteins in the brain and GFAP in the serum. The Doublecortin (DCX) protein, the “gold standard” for measuring neurogenesis, was significantly downregulated by RI and RCI compared with the sham group. Furthermore, RI and RCI decreased the expression of the neural stem cell marker E-cadherin, the intermediate progenitor marker MASH1, the immature neuron cell marker NeuroD1, and the mature neuron cell marker NeuN, indicating neural cell damage in all development stages after RI and RCI. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining further confirmed the significant loss of neural cells in RCI. Our data demonstrated that RI and RCI induced brain injury through inflammatory pathways, and RCI exacerbated neural cell damage more than RI.
Physiological Significance of the Heterogeneous Distribution of Zeaxanthin and Lutein in the Retina of the Human Eye
Authors: Grudzinski Wojciech , Luchowski Rafal , Ostrowski Jan , Sęk Alicja , Mendes Pinto Maria Manuela , Welc-Stanowska Renata , Zubik-Duda Monika , Teresiński Grzegorz , Rejdak Robert , Gruszecki Wieslaw I.
Published: June 2023

Zeaxanthin and lutein are xanthophyll pigments present in the human retina and particularly concentrated in its center referred to as the yellow spot (macula lutea). The fact that zeaxanthin, including its isomer meso-zeaxanthin, is concentrated in the central part of the retina, in contrast to lutein also present in the peripheral regions, raises questions about the possible physiological significance of such a heterogeneous distribution of macular xanthophylls. Here, we attempt to address this problem using resonance Raman spectroscopy and confocal imaging, with different laser lines selected to effectively distinguish the spectral contribution of lutein and zeaxanthin. Additionally, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) is used to solve the problem of xanthophyll localization in the axon membranes. The obtained results allow us to conclude that one of the key advantages of a particularly high concentration of zeaxanthin in the central part of the retina is the high efficiency of this pigment in the dynamic filtration of light with excessive intensity, potentially harmful for the photoreceptors.
Bilirubin Concentration in Follicular Fluid Is Increased in Infertile Females, Correlates with Decreased Antioxidant Levels and Increased Nitric Oxide Metabolites, and Negatively Affects Outcome Measures of In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Mangione Renata , Pallisco Romina , Bilotta Gabriele , Marroni Francesca , Di Pietro Valentina , Capoccia Elena , Lazzarino Giuseppe , Tavazzi Barbara , Lazzarino Giacomo , Bilotta Pasquale , Amorini Angela Maria
Published: June 2023

In a previous study, we showed that various low-molecular-weight compounds in follicular fluid (FF) samples of control fertile females (CFF) have different concentrations compared to those found in FF of infertile females (IF), before and after their categorization into different subgroups, according to their clinical diagnosis of infertility. Using the same FF samples of this previous study, we here analyzed the FF concentrations of free and bound bilirubin and compared the results obtained in CFF, IF and the different subgroups of IF (endometriosis, EM, polycystic ovary syndrome, PCOS, age-related reduced ovarian reserve, AR-ROR, reduced ovarian reserve, ROR, genetic infertility, GI and unexplained infertility, UI). The results clearly indicated that CFF had lower values of free, bound and total bilirubin compared to the respective values measured in pooled IF. These differences were observed even when IF were categorized into EM, PCOS, AR-ROR, ROR, GI and UI, with EM and PCOS showing the highest values of free, bound and total bilirubin among the six subgroups. Using previous results of ascorbic acid, GSH and nitrite + nitrate measured in the same FF samples of the same FF donors, we found that total bilirubin in FF increased as a function of decreased values of ascorbic acid and GSH, and increased concentrations of nitrite + nitrate. The values of total bilirubin negatively correlated with the clinical parameters of fertilization procedures (number of retrieved oocytes, mature oocytes, fertilized oocytes, blastocysts, high-quality blastocysts) and with clinical pregnancies and birth rates. Bilirubin concentrations in FF were not linked to those found in serum samples of FF donors, thereby strongly suggesting that its over production was due to higher activity of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), the key enzyme responsible for bilirubin formation, in granulosa cells, or cumulus cells or oocytes of IF and ultimately leading to bilirubin accumulation in FF. Since increased activity of HO-1 is one of the main enzymatic intracellular mechanisms of defense towards external insults (oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation), and since we found correlations among bilirubin and oxidative/nitrosative stress in these FF samples, it may reasonably be supposed that bilirubin increase in FF of IF is the result of protracted exposures to the aforementioned insults evidently playing relevant roles in female infertility.
Vomeronasal Receptors Associated with Circulating Estrogen Processing Chemosensory Cues in Semi-Aquatic Mammals
Authors: Xie Wenqian , Chen Meiqi , Shen Yuyao , Liu Yuning , Zhang Haolin , Weng Qiang
Published: June 2023

In numerous animals, one essential chemosensory organ that detects chemical signals is the vomeronasal organ (VNO), which is involved in species-specific behaviors, including social and sexual behaviors. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanism underlying the processing of chemosensory cues in semi-aquatic mammals using muskrats as the animal model. Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) has a sensitive VNO system that activates seasonal breeding behaviors through receiving specific substances, including pheromones and hormones. Vomeronasal organ receptor type 1 (V1R) and type 2 (V2R) and estrogen receptor α and β (ERα and ERβ) were found in sensory epithelial cells, non-sensory epithelial cells and lamina propria cells of the female muskrats’ VNO. V2R and ERα mRNA levels in the VNO during the breeding period declined sharply, in comparison to those during the non-breeding period, while V1R and ERβ mRNA levels were detected reversely. Additionally, transcriptomic study in the VNO identified that differently expressed genes might be related to estrogen signal and metabolic pathways. These findings suggested that the seasonal structural and functional changes in the VNO of female muskrats with different reproductive status and estrogen was regulated through binding to ERα and ERβ in the female muskrats’ VNO.
BSA-Seq and Transcriptomic Analysis Provide Candidate Genes Associated with Inflorescence Architecture and Kernel Orientation by Phytohormone Homeostasis in Maize
Authors: Wang Yang , Li Yang , Zhang Wenjie , Yang Yue , Ma Yuting , Li Xinyang , Meng Dexuan , Luo Haishan , Xue Wei , Lv Xiangling , Li Fenghai , Du Wanli , Geng Xiaolin
Published: June 2023

The developmental plasticity of the maize inflorescence depends on meristems, which directly affect reproductive potential and yield. However, the molecular roles of upper floral meristem (UFM) and lower floral meristem (LFM) in inflorescence and kernel development have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we characterized the reversed kernel1 (rk1) novel mutant, which contains kernels with giant embryos but shows normal vegetative growth like the wild type (WT). Total RNA was extracted from the inflorescence at three stages for transcriptomic analysis. A total of 250.16-Gb clean reads were generated, and 26,248 unigenes were assembled and annotated. Gene ontology analyses of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) detected in the sexual organ formation stage revealed that cell differentiation, organ development, phytohormonal responses and carbohydrate metabolism were enriched. The DEGs associated with the regulation of phytohormone levels and signaling were mainly expressed, including auxin (IAA), jasmonic acid (JA), gibberellins (GA), and abscisic acid (ABA). The transcriptome, hormone evaluation and immunohistochemistry observation revealed that phytohormone homeostasis were affected in rk1. BSA-Seq and transcriptomic analysis also provide candidate genes to regulate UFM and LFM development. These results provide novel insights for understanding the regulatory mechanism of UFM and LFM development in maize and other plants.
BDNF and NGF Expression in Preneoplastic Cervical Disease According to HIV Status
Authors: Sirico Angelo , Simonelli Saverio , Pignatiello Sara , Fulgione Caterina , Sarno Laura , Chiuso Francesco , Maruotti Giuseppe Maria , Sansone Matilde , Guida Maurizio , Insabato Luigi
Published: June 2023

Background. Neurotrophins, such as BDNF and NGF, are overexpressed in tumor cells in cervical cancer, and HIV infection is associated with the upregulation of neurotrophin expression. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether BDNF and NGF are overexpressed in preneoplastic cervical disease from HIV-infected women. Methods. Women with preneoplastic cervical lesions (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or 3) were prospectively enrolled and grouped according to their HIV status. Samples from Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) for suspected cervical cancer were obtained, and immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate BDNF and NGF expression. Results. We included in our analysis 12 HIV-infected patients who were matched with 23 HIV-negative patients as a control group. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that BDNF expression was significantly higher in cervical preneoplastic lesions from HIV-positive women than in the lesions from the control group. In particular, BDNF was expressed in 8/12 HIV-positive patients and 7/23 HIV-negative patients (66.7% vs. 30.4%, χ2 = 4.227; p = 0.040). NGF expression was not significantly higher in cervical preneoplastic lesions from HIV-positive women compared with that in the lesions from the control group. In particular, NGF was expressed in 8/12 HIV-positive patients and in 12/23 HIV-negative patients (66.7% vs. 52.2% χ2 = 0.676; p = 0.411). Logistic regression analysis showed that the HIV status is an independent predictor of BDNF expression in pre-invasive preneoplastic cervical disease when considered alone (crude OR 4.6, 95% CI 0.027–20.347; p = 0.046) and when analyzed with other co-factors (adjusted OR 6.786, 95% CI 1.084–42.476; p = 0.041). Conclusions. In preneoplastic cervical disease, BDNF expression is higher in HIV-infected women than in non-infected controls, and this is independent of the clinical features of the patients and from the presence of the HPV-HR genotype. BDNF can play a key role as a link between the pathways by which HIV and HPV interact to accelerate cervical cancer progression and invasion. These data can be useful to better understand the role of neurotrophins in the cancerogenesis of cervical cancer and the possible therapeutic strategies to improve disease outcomes.
Genetic Authentication of the Medicinal Plant Portulaca oleracea Using a Quick, Precise, and Sensitive Isothermal DNA Amplification Assay
Authors: Xu Mo-Rong , Sun Fang-Chun , Yang Bo-Cheng , Chen Hsi-Jien , Lin Chia-Hsin , Cheng Jai-Hong , Lee Meng-Shiou
Published: June 2023

Portulaca oleracea (PO) is a commonly known medicinal crop that is an important ingredient for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) due to its use as a vegetable in the diet. PO has been recorded to be frequently adulterated by other related species in the market of herbal plants, distorting the PO plant identity. Thus, identification of the botanical origin of PO is a crucial step before pharmaceutical or functional food application. In this research, a quick assay named “loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)” was built for the specific and sensitive authentication of PO DNA. On the basis of the divergences in the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequence between PO and its adulterant species, the LAMP primers were designed and verified their specificity, sensitivity, and application for the PO DNA authentication. The detection limit of the LAMP assay for PO DNA identification specifically was 100 fg under isothermal conditions at 63 °C for 30 min. In addition, different heat-processed PO samples can be applied for use in PO authentication in the LAMP assay. These samples of PO were more susceptible to the effect of steaming in authentication by PCR than boiling and drying treatment. Furthermore, commercial PO samples pursued from herbal markets were used to display their applicability of the developed LAMP analysis for PO postharvest authentication, and the investigation found that approximately 68.4% of PO specimens in the marketplace of herbal remedies were adulterated. In summary, the specific, sensitive, and rapid LAMP assay for PO authentication was first successfully developed herein, and its practical application for the inspection of adulteration in PO samples from the herbal market was shown. This LAMP assay created in this study will be useful to authenticate the botanical origin of PO and its commercial products.
Substitution of H Atoms in Unsaturated (Vinyl-Type) Carbocations by Cl or O Atoms
Authors: Stoyanov Evgenii S. , Bagryanskaya Irina Yu. , Stoyanova Irina V.
Published: June 2023

Introduction of Cl and O atoms into C4-vinyl carbocations was studied by X-ray diffraction analysis and IR spectroscopy. Chlorine atoms are weak electron acceptors in ordinary molecules but, within vinyl carbocations, manifest themselves as strong electron donors that accept a positive charge. The attachment of a Cl atom directly to a C=C bond leads to an increase in the e-density on it, exceeding that of the common double bond. The positive charge should be concentrated on the Cl atom, and weak δ− may appear on the C=C bond. More distant attachment of the Cl atom, e.g., to a C atom adjacent to the C=C bond, has a weaker effect on it. If two Cl atoms are attached to the Cγ atom of the vinyl cation, as in Cl2CγCδHCαHCH3, then the cation switches to the allyl type with two practically equivalent and almost uncharged CγCδCα bonds. When such a strong nucleophile as the O atom is introduced into the carbocation, a protonated ester molecule with a C–O(H+)–C group and a C=C bond forms. Nonetheless, in the future, there is still a possibility of obtaining carbocations with a non-protonated C–O–C group.
Overexpression of a Grape MYB Transcription Factor Gene VhMYB2 Increases Salinity and Drought Tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Ren Chuankun , Li Zhenghao , Song Penghui , Wang Yu , Liu Wanda , Zhang Lihua , Li Xingguo , Li Wenhui , Han Deguo
Published: June 2023

In viticulture, the highly resistant rootstock ‘Beta’ is widely used in Chinese grape production to avoid the effects of soil salinization and drought on grape growth. However, the mechanism of high resistance to abiotic stress in the ‘Beta’ rootstock is not clear. In this study, we demonstrated that VhMYB2 as a transcription factor made a significant contribution to salinity and drought stress, which was isolated from the ‘Beta’ rootstock. The coding sequence of the VhMYB2 gene was 858 bp, encoding 285 amino acids. The subcellular localization of VhMYB2 was located in the nucleus of tobacco epidermal cells. Moreover, RT-qPCR found that VhMYB2 was predominantly expressed in the mature leaf and root of the grape. Under salinity and drought stress, overexpressing VhMYB2 showed a higher resistant phenotype and survival rates in A. thaliana while the transgenic lines had a survival advantage by measuring the contents of proline, chlorophyll, and MDA, and activities of POD, SOD, and CAT, and expression levels of related stress response genes. The results reveal that VhMYB2 may be an important transcription factor regulating ‘Beta’ resistance in response to abiotic stress.
Expression Pattern and Ligand Binding Characteristics Analysis of Chemosensory Protein SnitCSP2 from Sirex nitobei
Authors: Guo Pingping , Hao Enhua , Li Han , Yang Xi , Lu Pengfei , Qiao Haili
Published: June 2023

Sirex nitobei is an important wood-boring wasp to conifers native to Asia, causing considerable economic and ecological damage. However, the current control means cannot achieve better efficiency, and it is expected to clarify the molecular mechanism of protein–ligand binding for effective pest control. This study analyzed the expression pattern of CSP2 in S. nitobei (SnitCSP2) and its features of binding to the screened ligands using molecular docking and dynamic simulations. The results showed that SnitCSP2 was significantly expressed in female antennae. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations revealed that SnitCSP2 bound better to the host plant volatile (+)-α-pinene and symbiotic fungal volatiles terpene and (−)-globulol than other target ligands. By the molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area (MM-PBSA) method, the free binding energies of the three complexes were calculated as −44.813 ± 0.189 kJ/mol, −50.446 ± 0.396 kJ/mol, and −56.418 ± 0.368 kJ/mol, and the van der Waals energy was found to contribute significantly to the stability of the complexes. Some key amino acid residues were also identified: VAL13, GLY14, LYS61, MET65, and LYS68 were important for the stable binding of (+)-α-pinene by SnitCSP2, while for terpenes, ILE16, ALA25, TYR26, CYS29, GLU39, THR37, and GLY40 were vital for a stable binding system. We identified three potential ligands and analyzed the interaction patterns of the proteins with them to provide a favorable molecular basis for regulating insect behavioral interactions and developing new pest control strategies.
Functional Characterization of Pheromone Receptors in the Beet Webworm, Loxostege sticticalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Zhang Yu , Han Hai-Bin , Li Yan-Yan , Xu Lin-Bo , Hao Li-Fen , Wang Hui , Wang Wen-He , Gao Shu-Jing , Lin Ke-Jian
Published: June 2023

Lepidopteran insects mainly rely on sex pheromones to complete sexual communications. Pheromone receptors (PRs) are expressed on the olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) of the sensilla trichodea and play an essential role in sexual communication. Despite extensive investigations into the mechanisms of peripheral recognition of sex pheromones in Lepidoptera, knowledge about these mechanisms in L. sticticalis remains limited. In this study, five candidate LstiPRs were analyzed in a phylogenetic tree with those of other Lepidopteran insects. Electroantennography (EAG) assays showed that the major sex pheromone component E11-14:OAc elicited a stronger antennal response than other compounds in male moths. Moreover, two types of neurons in sensilla trichodea were classified by single sensillum recordings, of which the “a” neuron specifically responded to E11-14:OAc. Five candidate PRs were functionally assayed by the heterologous expression system of Xenopus oocytes, and LstiPR2 responded to the major sex pheromone E11-14:OAc. Our findings suggest that LstiPR2 is a PR sensitive to L. sticticalis’s major sex pheromone compound, E11-14:OAc. Furthermore, this study offers valuable insights into the sexual communication behavior of L. sticticalis, forming a foundation for further analysis of the species’ central nervous system.
Maximizing the Potential of Attractive Targeted Sugar Baits (ATSBs) for Integrated Vector Management
Authors: Njoroge Teresia Muthoni , Hamid-Adiamoh Majidah , Duman-Scheel Molly
Published: June 2023

Due to the limitations of the human therapeutics and vaccines available to treat and prevent mosquito-borne diseases, the primary strategy for disease mitigation is through vector control. However, the current tools and approaches used for mosquito control have proven insufficient to prevent malaria and arboviral infections, such as dengue, Zika, and lymphatic filariasis, and hence, these diseases remain a global public health threat. The proven ability of mosquito vectors to adapt to various control strategies through insecticide resistance, invasive potential, and behavioral changes from indoor to outdoor biting, combined with human failures to comply with vector control requirements, challenge sustained malaria and arboviral disease control worldwide. To address these concerns, increased efforts to explore more varied and integrated control strategies have emerged. These include approaches that involve the behavioral management of vectors. Attractive targeted sugar baits (ATSBs) are a vector control approach that manipulates and exploits mosquito sugar-feeding behavior to deploy insecticides. Although traditional approaches have been effective in controlling malaria vectors indoors, preventing mosquito bites outdoors and around human dwellings is challenging. ATSBs, which can be used to curb outdoor biting mosquitoes, have the potential to reduce mosquito densities and clinical malaria incidence when used in conjunction with existing vector control strategies. This review examines the available literature regarding the utility of ATSBs for mosquito control, providing an overview of ATSB active ingredients (toxicants), attractants, modes of deployment, target organisms, and the potential for integrating ATSBs with existing vector control interventions.