bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green extraction of puromycin-based antibiotics from Streptomyces albofaciens (MS38) for sustainable biopharmaceutical applications
Authors: Singh Neha , Patil Sandip , Shahnawaz Mohd. , Rai Vibhuti , Patil Abhinandan , Tripathi C. K. M. , Wen Feiqiu , Dong Shaowei , Cai Defeng
Published: January 2024

Background: Microbial secondary metabolites have shown promise as a source of novel antimicrobial agents. In this study, we aimed to isolate, characterize, and evaluate the antimicrobial activity of compound from a novel Streptomyces albofaciens strain MS38. The objective was to identify a potential bioactive compound with broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties.

Methods: The isolated strain MS38 on starch casein agar was characterized using morphological, physiological, and molecular identification techniques. The compound was obtained from the fermented broth through extraction with n-butanol and further purification using silica gel column chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Structural elucidation was conducted using Ultraviolet (UV), Infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and mass spectrometry (MS) techniques. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method and the microplate Alamar blue assay (MABA).

Results: The isolated strain MS38 was identified as novel S. albofaciens based on morphological characteristics and confirmed by 16S sequences analysis and MALDI-TOF MS. The compound obtained from the fermented broth exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity against a variety of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Structural analysis revealed a complex chemical structure with characteristic functional groups indicative of potential antimicrobial properties. The compound demonstrated strong activity against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus Spp.) and Gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli) bacteria, as well as fungi, including Candida albicans and Trichophyton rubrum.

Conclusion: This study successfully isolated and characterized a bioactive compound from a novel S. albofaciens MS38. The compound exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against a range of pathogenic microorganisms. These findings underscore the importance of exploring microbial biodiversity for the discovery of novel antimicrobial agents. This study contributes to the growing knowledge of microbial secondary metabolites with potential therapeutic value.
Eliminating the invading extracellular and intracellular FnBp+ bacteria from respiratory epithelial cells by autophagy mediated through FnBp-Fn-Integrin α5β1 axis
Authors: Meng Meiqi , Wang Jiachao , Li Hongru , Wang Jiao , Wang Xuan , Li Miao , Gao Xue , Li Wenjian , Ma Cuiqing , Wei Lin
Published: January 2024

Background

We previously found that the respiratory epithelial cells could eliminate the invaded group A streptococcus (GAS) through autophagy induced by binding a fibronectin (Fn) binding protein (FnBp) expressed on the surface of GAS to plasma protein Fn and its receptor integrin α5β1 of epithelial cells. Is autophagy initiated by FnBp+ bacteria via FnBp-Fn-Integrin α5β1 axis a common event in respiratory epithelial cells?

Methods

We chose Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus/S. a) and Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes/L. m) as representatives of extracellular and intracellular FnBp+ bacteria, respectively. The FnBp of them was purified and the protein function was confirmed by western blot, viable bacteria count, confocal and pull-down. The key molecule downstream of the action axis was detected by IP, mass spectrometry and bio-informatics analysis.

Results

We found that different FnBp from both S. aureus and L. monocytogenes could initiate autophagy through FnBp-Fn-integrin α5β1 axis and this could be considered a universal event, by which host tries to remove invading bacteria from epithelial cells. Importantly, we firstly reported that S100A8, as a key molecule downstream of integrin β1 chain, is highly expressed upon activation of integrin α5β1, which in turn up-regulates autophagy.

Conclusions

Various FnBp from FnBp+ bacteria have the ability to initiate autophagy via FnBp-Fn-Integrin α5β1 axis to promote the removal of invading bacteria from epithelial cells in the presence of fewer invaders. S100A8 is a key molecule downstream of Integrin α5β1 in this autophagy pathway.
Plasmid content of carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii isolates belonging to five International Clones collected from hospitals of Alexandria, Egypt
Authors: Sánchez-Urtaza Sandra , Ocampo-Sosa Alain , Rodríguez-Grande Jorge , El-Kholy Mohammed A. , Shawky Sherine M. , Alkorta Itziar , Gallego Lucia
Published: January 2024

Multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii is one of the most important nosocomial pathogens worldwide. During the last decades it has become a major threat for healthcare settings due to the high antibiotic resistance rates among these isolates. Many resistance determinants are coded by conjugative or mobilizable plasmids, facilitating their dissemination. The majority of plasmids harbored by Acinetobacter species are less than 20 Kb, however, high molecular weight elements are the most clinically relevant since they usually contain antibiotic resistance genes. The aim of this work was to describe, classify and determine the genetic content of plasmids harbored by carbapem resistant A. baumannii isolates belonging to predominant clonal lineages circulating in hospitals from Alexandria, Egypt. The isolates were subjected to S1-Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis experiments to identify high molecular weight plasmids. To further analyze the plasmid content and the genetic localization of the antibiotic resistance genes, isolates were sequenced by Illumina Miseq and MinION Mk1C and a hybrid assembly was performed using Unicycler v0.5.0. Plasmids were detected with MOBsuite 3.0.3 and Copla.py v.1.0 and mapped using the online software Proksee.ca. Replicase genes were further analyzed through a BLAST against the Acinetobacter Plasmid Typing database. Eleven plasmids ranging in size from 4.9 to 205.6 Kb were characterized and mapped. All isolates contained plasmids, and, in many cases, more than two elements were identified. Antimicrobial resistance genes such as blaOXA-23, blaGES-like, aph(3’)-VI and qacEΔ1 were found in likely conjugative large plasmids; while virulence determinants such as septicolysin or TonB-dependent receptors were identified in plasmids of small size. Some of these resistance determinants were, in turn, located within transposons and class 1 integrons. Among the identified plasmids, the majority encoded proteins belonging to the Rep_3 family, but replicases of the RepPriCT_1 (Aci6) family were also identified. Plasmids are of high interest as antibiotic resistance control tools, since they may be used as genetic markers for antibiotic resistance and virulence, and also as targets for the development of compounds that can inhibit transfer processes.
TNIK regulation of interferon signaling and endothelial cell response to virus infection
Authors: Chau Khanh M. , Dominic Abishai , Davis Eleanor L. , Kotla Sivareddy , Berrios Estefani Turcios , Fahim Arsany , Arunesh Ashwin , Li Shengyu , Zhao Dongyu , Chen Kaifu , Davis Alan R. , Nguyen Minh T. H. , Wang Yongxing , Evans Scott E. , Wang Guangyu , Cooke John P. , Abe Jun-ichi , Huston David P. , Le Nhat-Tu
Published: January 2024

Background

Traf2 and Nck-interacting kinase (TNIK) is known for its regulatory role in various processes within cancer cells. However, its role within endothelial cells (ECs) has remained relatively unexplored.

Methods

Leveraging RNA-seq data and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), we probed the potential impact of TNIK depletion on ECs.

Results

Examination of RNA-seq data uncovered more than 450 Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) in TNIK-depleted ECs, displaying a fold change exceeding 2 with a false discovery rate (FDR) below 0.05. IPA analysis unveiled that TNIK depletion leads to the inhibition of the interferon (IFN) pathway [-log (p-value) >11], downregulation of IFN-related genes, and inhibition of Hypercytokinemia/Hyperchemokinemia [-log (p-value) >8]. The validation process encompassed qRT-PCR to evaluate mRNA expression of crucial IFN-related genes, immunoblotting to gauge STAT1 and STAT2 protein levels, and ELISA for the quantification of IFN and cytokine secretion in siTNIK-depleted ECs. These assessments consistently revealed substantial reductions upon TNIK depletion. When transducing HUVECs with replication incompetent E1-E4 deleted adenovirus expressing green fluorescent protein (Ad-GFP), it was demonstrated that TNIK depletion did not affect the uptake of Ad-GFP. Nonetheless, TNIK depletion induced cytopathic effects (CPE) in ECs transduced with wild-type human adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad-WT).

Our findings suggest that TNIK plays a crucial role in regulating the EC response to virus infections through modulation of the IFN pathway.
Overview of early cretaceous gold mineralization in the orogenic belt of the eastern margin of the Siberian craton: geological and genetic features
Authors: Goryachev Nikolay , Fridovsky Valery
Published: January 2024

The giant Verkhoyansk-Kolyma gold province, producing more than∼ 3700 t of gold, is one of the most important metallogenic provinces for orogenic gold deposits in the world. The province is located on the eastern margin of the Siberian craton. The main types here are multistage orogenic Au-As and orogenic-like Au-Sb types of mineralization, related to the Late Jurassic-Early Cretaceous metallogeny and the evolution of the convergent margin. These deposits were formed in the environment of late orogeny during two metallogenic stages—the Late Jurassic-Early Cretaceous collision-related (early stage/stage one, 135–150 Ma) and the Early Cretaceous subduction-related (late stage/stage two 114–130 Ma). The common features, differences and genetic nature of the deposits of these two metallogenic stages have been debated for a long time. To improve the understanding of these problematic issues and the genesis of deposits, and control over them by the mantle lithosphere, we consider here the Early Cretaceous orogenic belts of the eastern margin of the Siberian craton. Orogenic belts are related to the development of the paleo-Arctic and paleo-Pacific margins of Siberia. The tectonic, geochronological, mineralogical and geochemical specificity of the deposits of the orogenic belts are shown. A regional metallogenic overview of gold deposits is performed using data on the age of mineralization and the isotopic composition of sulfur sulfides. A preliminary model of the origin of late stage mineralization is proposed in connection with the processes of the Okhotsk-Koryak orogenic belt formation. Increased concentrations of siderophilic and chalcophilic elements, the Ni, Bi minerals presence in the ores, relatively high fineness of gold, predominance of juvenile sulfur in the isotopic composition of sulfide sulfur, аnd the control by large trans-crustal faults as well as spatial and chronological association with initial (dike) magmatism indicate mantle sources of ore fluids. This mineralization within the orogenic belts of the eastern margin of the Siberian craton assumingly appeared due to dehydration of the submerged slab and local upwelling in the mantle in the rear of the active continental margin. The possibility of the gold-bearing fluids existence in such conditions is estimated. The metallogenic specific nature of collision-related and subduction-related orogenic Au is defined. The proposed model can be useful for the analysis of polychronous orogenic Au-As and orogenic-like Au-Sb metallogeny of orogenic belts on craton margins globally.
Structural controls of the migration of mantle-derived CO2 offshore in the Santos Basin (Southeastern Brazil)
Authors: Plawiak Rafael André Belotto , Carvalho Marcelo José , Sombra Cristiano Leite , Brandão Davy Raeder , Mepen Michelle , Ferrari André Luiz , Gambôa Luiz Antônio Pierantoni
Published: January 2024

We present a multi-scale conceptual model based on structural controls of the migration of mantle-derived CO2 offshore in the Santos Basin (Southeastern Brazil). We assembled the model from a regional 2D seismic reflection line integrated with potential gravimetric field data and a local 3D seismic reflection volume integrated with well data (lithologies and in situ stress). (i) The geochemical isotope range of δ13CCO2 falls mostly within −7‰ and −5‰ and shows relatively high values for 3He/4He represented by an R/Ra rate of up to 5.60, indicating CO2 mantle generation and degassing. (ii) Seismic interpretation feasibly validated by potential gravimetric responses of the crustal structure (Moho discontinuity) show CO2 migration through deep-seated faults in a region of highly stretched continental crust with oceanward mantle uprising. (iii) Early Cretaceous basement highs generated in an obliquely syn-rift faulting system control CO2 accumulation in thermogenic travertines (hydrothermal carbonate reservoirs of continental lakes), and Aptian evaporites subsequently trap it.
Rockburst hazard assessment and prevention and control strategies in the Ruihai gold mine
Authors: Li Pengxiang , Wang Zongwen , Chen Bingrui , Peng Jianping , Zhang Bochao , Zhao Jinshuai , Xie Houlin
Published: January 2024

Ruihai gold mine is a super large underwater gold mine with an initial mining depth of more than 1,400 m. Deep mining may face rockburst disaster. In order to scientifically control the potential rockburst risk, ensure the safety of underground personnel and equipment, and realize the safe and efficient mining of the mine, it is necessary to evaluate the rockburst risk of the mine and formulate appropriate rockburst risk warning and mitigation strategies. XRD mineral composition analysis and conventional rock mechanical tests were carried out on the parent rock granite samples. The results show that there are differences in the lithologic composition and rock mechanics parameters of the three colors of granite, which are preliminarily determined as three kinds of granite; The rockburst tendency of three kinds of granites is evaluated by using three classical rockburst criteria, and the discrimination results of the three rockburst criteria are not completely consistent or even contradictory. The application limitations rockburst risk assessment based on index criteria are discussed and analyzed in detail. It is proposed to apply microseismic monitoring technology to warn and manage the rockburst risk of Ruihai gold mine in development and mining stages, and put forward microseismic monitoring layout schemes and targeted rockburst prevention and control measures in different stages. The research results can provide reference for similar projects.
Pedagogical video: a key learning object for e-learning, from mediation to mediatization
Authors: Ikram Chelliq , Omar Erradi , Mohamed Erradi , Mohamed Khaldi
Published: January 2024

Current developments relating to integrating information and communication technologies (ICT) in learning lead us to wonder about the positive impact that pedagogical video can have on e-learning devices mediating between teacher and learner. Determining the concepts of mediatization and mediation constitutes one of the essential bases of any pedagogical engineering of mediated videos to ensure better transmission of knowledge. To articulate the two concepts of mediation and mediatization, designers, teachers, and trainers must not only mediate the contents of the video but also the pedagogical relation, the design and production process, without forgetting the scenarization phase of the pedagogical videos, which occupy an important place in the pedagogical engineering. In our article, after giving an overview of the two concepts, mediation, and mediatization, we define the pedagogical video, the use of the pedagogical video, and the forms of the pedagogical video. Then, we identify the mediatization tools of pedagogical videos and their mediatization articulation according to previous studies.
Learning profiles and their relation to the experiences of learning generic skills at the end of the first year of university study
Authors: Hyytinen Heidi , Tuononen Tarja , Haarala-Muhonen Anne
Published: January 2024

University students’ approaches to learning and generic skills have important consequences for studying and success in higher education. However, person-oriented research, which explores how students with different learning profiles evaluate their learning of individual generic skills, has not been the core interest of previous studies. This study investigates the learning profiles of university students (N = 901) in two disciplines and their relations to the experiences of learning critical thinking, collaboration and communication at the end of the first study year. The interrelations of the variables were analyzed with correlations and Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) estimating auxiliary variable relation. LPA yielded three learning profile groups that differed from each other in their approaches to learning: unreflective, dissonant and deep-organized, which, respectively, comprised 7, 58 and 35% of the sample. The experiences of learning generic skills of the three learning profiles varied. The comparison of the profiles showed that students representing the deep-organized profile scored highest on all measured generic skills compared to the other two learning profiles.
Case report: Insulinomatosis: description of four sporadic cases and review of the literature
Authors: Lourenço Delmar Muniz , Corrêa-Giannella Maria Lucia , Siqueira Sheila Aparecida Coelho , Nery Marcia , Ribeiro Flavio Galvão , Quedas Elizangela Pereira de Souza , Rocha Manoel de Souza , Nascimento Ramon Marcelino do , Pereira Maria Adelaide Albergaria
Published: January 2024

The best-known etiologies of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia are insulinoma, non-insulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemic syndrome, autoimmune processes, and factitious hypoglycemia. In 2009, a disease not associated with classic genetic syndromes and characterized by the presence of multiple pancreatic lesions was described and named insulinomatosis. We present the clinical and pathologic features of four patients with the diagnosis of insulinomatosis, aggregated new clinical data, reviewed extensively the literature, and illustrated the nature and evolution of this recently recognized disease. One of our patients had isolated (without fasting hypoglycemia) postprandial hypoglycemia, an occurrence not previously reported in the literature. Furthermore, we reported the second case presenting malignant disease. All of them had persistent/recurrent hypoglycemia after the first surgery even with pathology confirming the presence of a positive insulin neuroendocrine tumor. In the literature review, 27 sporadic insulinomatosis cases were compiled. All of them had episodes of fasting hypoglycemia except one of our patients. Only two patients had malignant disease, and one of them was from our series. The suspicion of insulinomatosis can be raised before surgery in patients without genetic syndromes, with multiple tumors in the topographic investigation and in those who had persistent or recurrent hypoglycemia after surgical removal of one or more tumors. The definitive diagnosis is established by histology and immunohistochemistry and requires examination of the “macroscopically normal pancreas.” Our case series reinforces the marked predominance in women, the high frequency of recurrent hypoglycemia, and consequently, a definitive poor response to the usual surgical treatment.
Chemogenetic activation of PVN CRH neurons disrupts the estrous cycle and LH dynamics in female mice
Authors: Yu Junru , Li Xiao-Feng , Tsaneva-Atanasova Krasimira , Zavala Eder , O’Byrne Kevin T.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The impact of stress on reproductive function is significant. Hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) plays a major role in regulating the stress response. Understanding how the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis interact is crucial for comprehending how stress can lead to reproductive dysfunction. However, whether stress influences reproductive function via modulating PVN CRH or HPA sequelae is not fully elucidated.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the impact of chemogenetic activation of PVN CRH neurons on reproductive function. We chronically and selectively stimulated PVN CRH neurons in female CRH-Cre mice using excitatory designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) viral constructs, which were bilaterally injected into the PVN. The agonist compound-21 (C21) was delivered through the drinking water. We determined the effects of DREADDs activation of PVN CRH neurons on the estrous cycles, LH pulse frequency in diestrus and metestrus and LH surge in proestrus mice. The effect of long-term C21 administration on basal corticosterone secretion and the response to acute restraint stress during metestrus was also examined. Additionally, computer simulations of a mathematical model were used to determine the effects of DREADDs activation of PVN CRH neurons, simulating chronic stress, on the physiological parameters examined experimentally.

Results

As a result, and consistent with our mathematical model predictions, the length of the estrous cycle was extended, with an increase in the time spent in estrus and metestrus, and a decrease in proestrus and diestrus. Additionally, the frequency of LH pulses during metestrus was decreased, but unaffected during diestrus. The occurrence of the preovulatory LH surge during proestrus was disrupted. The basal level of corticosterone during metestrus was not affected, but the response to acute restraint stress was diminished after long-term C21 application.

Discussion

These data suggest that PVN CRH neurons play a functional role in disrupting ovarian cyclicity and the preovulatory LH surge, and that the activity of the GnRH pulse generator remains relatively robust during diestrus but not during metestrus under chronic stress exposure in accordance with our mathematical model predictions.
In silico analysis of crustacean hyperglycemic hormone family G protein-coupled receptor candidates
Authors: Kozma Mihika T. , Pérez-Moreno Jorge L. , Gandhi Neha S. , Hernandez Jeppesen Luisanna , Durica David S. , Ventura Tomer , Mykles Donald L.
Published: January 2024

Ecdysteroid molting hormone synthesis is directed by a pair of molting glands or Y-organs (YOs), and this synthesis is inhibited by molt-inhibiting hormone (MIH). MIH is a member of the crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (CHH) neuropeptide superfamily, which includes CHH and insect ion transport peptide (ITP). It is hypothesized that the MIH receptor is a Class A (Rhodopsin-like) G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). The YO of the blackback land crab, Gecarcinus lateralis, expresses 49 Class A GPCRs, three of which (Gl-CHHR-A9, -A10, and -A12) were provisionally assigned as CHH-like receptors. CrusTome, a transcriptome database assembled from 189 crustaceans and 12 ecdysozoan outgroups, was used to deorphanize candidate MIH/CHH GPCRs, relying on sequence homology to three functionally characterized ITP receptors (BNGR-A2, BNGR-A24, and BNGR-A34) in the silk moth, Bombyx mori. Phylogenetic analysis and multiple sequence alignments across major taxonomic groups revealed extensive expansion and diversification of crustacean A2, A24, and A34 receptors, designated CHH Family Receptor Candidates (CFRCs). The A2 clade was divided into three subclades; A24 clade was divided into five subclades; and A34 was divided into six subclades. The subclades were distinguished by conserved motifs in extracellular loop (ECL) 2 and ECL3 in the ligand-binding region. Eleven of the 14 subclades occurred in decapod crustaceans. In G. lateralis, seven CFRC sequences, designated Gl-CFRC-A2α1, -A24α, -A24β1, -A24β2, -A34α2, -A34β1, and -A34β2, were identified; the three A34 sequences corresponded to Gl-GPCR-A12, -A9, and A10, respectively. ECL2 in all the CFRC sequences had a two-stranded β-sheet structure similar to human Class A GPCRs, whereas the ECL2 of decapod CFRC-A34β1/β2 had an additional two-stranded β-sheet. We hypothesize that this second β-sheet on ECL2 plays a role in MIH/CHH binding and activation, which will be investigated further with functional assays.
Equivalent simulation method for total pressure distortion of ship inlet
Authors: Wang Zhong-Yi , He Chenxin , Wu Yue , Qu Yong-Lei
Published: January 2024

According to the use of marine gas turbines, inlet distortion is caused by the bending of the compressor inlet port. The total pressure distortion is the external stability reduction factor that has the greatest impact on the engine’s aerodynamic stability. This research designs a pressure distortion simulation device, which achieves the goal of providing the target distortion flow field for marine compressors by inserting plugboards of different heights and shapes into the inlet duct. The variation pattern of the entire flow field after inserting different parameter plugboards is obtained through distortion experiments and numerical simulations. Summarizes a prediction formula for total pressure distortion under different working conditions, with a verified error of less than 1.5%. In addition, the straight plugboard is changed to arc plugboard or concave and convex plugboard, the total pressure distortion distribution pattern can be changed while the range of the circumferential low-pressure zone remains unchanged. The distortion index of the distortion simulator designed by this research institute can be adjusted within the range of 0.5%–5%, while providing various distortion pattern. The distortion simulator meets the requirements of the comprehensive distortion index needed for the relevant distortion test of the marine engine and provides assistance for ship engine design and optimization.
Industrial agglomeration and PM2.5 pollution in Yangtze River Economic Belt in China: non-linear estimation and mechanism analysis
Authors: Li Lin , Xia Zhexi , Yi Jiahui , Qi Rui , Cheng Jinhua
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The uncertainty associated with PM2.5 pollution hinders the economic high-quality development and threatens public health. Industrial agglomeration stands as a critical factor in regional economic and environmental governance, and the current studies about its impact on PM2.5 pollution are mostly limited to a specific industry or unidirectional influence.

Methods: Our study constructed spatial econometric models to analyze the effect of three major industrial agglomerations on PM2.5 pollution, based on evidence from 110 prefecture-level cities of the Yangtze River Economic Belt in 2005–2019.

Results: The results show that: 1) The three major industrial agglomerations and PM2.5 pollution present different spatiotemporal characteristics and show prominent positive spatial autocorrelation and agglomeration effect. 2) The primary industrial agglomeration contributes to a decrease in PM2.5 pollution and exhibits negative spatial spillover effects. A nonlinear relationship is observed between the secondary industrial agglomeration and PM2.5 pollution. The tertiary industrial agglomeration results in an increase in PM2.5 pollution. 3) The effects of secondary industrial agglomeration on PM2.5 pollution exhibit varying degrees of ‘inverted U-shape’ curves in the upstream, midstream, and downstream cities. The midstream cities are the first to reach the inflection point of agglomeration. 4) Industrial agglomeration affects PM2.5 pollution through three mechanisms, including scale expansion effect, technological spillover effect, and population scale effect.

Discussion: Based on the empirical findings, this study provides scientific support and decision-making reference to improve the positive impacts of industrial agglomerations on PM2.5 pollution.
Multi-dimensional temperature sensitivity of protected tropical mountain rain forests
Authors: Finegan Bryan , Delgado Diego , Hernández Gordillo Alba Lorena , Zamora Villalobos Nelson , Núñez Florez Rafael , Díaz Santos Fabio , Vílchez Mendoza Sergio
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Tropical mountain rain forests (TMRF, natural forests at > 300 m asl) are globally important for biodiversity and ecosystem services and are believed to be highly vulnerable to climate change. But there are no specific approaches for rigorous assessment of their vulnerability at the landscape and local scales necessary for management for adaptation. We address the challenge of evaluating the ecological sensitivity to temperature of TMRF, applying a multidimensional approach in protected areas over a 440–2,950 m asl altitudinal gradient in Costa Rica, synthesizing results of a long-term research programme (2012-present). We evaluate the sensitivity to the current spatial temperature gradient of eleven ecosystem properties in three categories: forest composition and diversity, thermal characteristics of forest stands and forest structure and dynamics.

Methods

Data are from 29 to 32 plots of 50 m x 50 m (0.25 ha) distributed over the gradient, in which all trees, palms and tree ferns ≥ 10 dbh are identified to species and measured for recruitment, growth and mortality. An experimental study of leaf litter decomposition rates was carried out in twelve plots. Current and future (SSP 585, 2070) values of mean annual temperatures MAT were obtained from online climate surfaces. Thermal characteristics of forest stands were determined using MATs of species occurrences in GBIF and include a new index, the Community Thermal Capital Index (CTCI), calculated as CTI-MAT.

Results

We classified degrees of sensitivity to temperature as very weak, weak, moderate or substantial. All eleven ecosystem properties are substantially sensitive, so changes in their values are expected under rising temperatures. Species density, the community temperature index CTI, tree recruitment and mortality rates and leaf litter decomposition rates are positively related to temperature, while the community weighted mean thermal niche breadth, the CTCI, net basal area increments, stand basal area and carbon in aboveground biomass are negatively related. Results point to zones of vulnerability in the protected areas.

Discussion

In montane forests, positive values of the CTCI–climate credit– robust basal area growth and very low mortality and leaf litter decomposition rates suggest healthy ecosystems and no risk of mountaintop extinction. Lowland forests may be vulnerable to degradation and biotic attrition, showing current basal area loss, high mortality and climate debts. National and local actors are participating in a process of adoption of the sensitivity analysis and recommendations regarding zones of vulnerability.
Multi-tissue transcriptome analysis to identify candidate genes associated with weight regulation in Hanwoo cattle
Authors: Jang Subin , Jang Sunsik , Kim Jaemin , Park Woncheoul
Published: January 2024

While genetic markers related to meat production traits have been identified in many other cattle breeds, research on weight in Hanwoo cattle (Korean native cattle) is still insufficient. In this study, we performed expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis and differential gene expression analysis to detect candidate genes influencing the weight characteristics of 32 castrated Hanwoo cattle across 22 tissues and, we identified variants that affect gene expression levels. In total, we identified a total of 3,298 differentially expressed genes, among which we discovered key genes such as UBD, RGS2, FASN, and SCD that have functions related to adipogenesis, body weight, obesity, and lipid metabolism. Gene-set enrichment analysis revealed that candidate genes in adipose tissue are involved in metabolic pathways linked to obesity-related traits, adipose metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Additionally, we found that decreased expression of TRIM31 contributes to weight gain which can be explained by the associated candidate cis-eQTL genotypes for TRIM31 and their effect on differential gene expression between the lower and higher weight groups. Our findings revealed candidate genes associated with the weight of Hanwoo cattle and perhaps can provide comprehensive insights into the association of weight with various tissues beyond adipose tissue and muscle, indicating the potential for expanding the focus of livestock trait research.
CD73-dependent generation of extracellular adenosine by vascular endothelial cells modulates de novo lipogenesis in adipose tissue
Authors: Jaeckstein Michelle Y. , Schulze Isabell , Zajac Michael Wolfgang , Heine Markus , Mann Oliver , Pfeifer Alexander , Heeren Joerg
Published: January 2024

Next to white and brown adipocytes present in white and brown adipose tissue (WAT, BAT), vascular endothelial cells, tissue-resident macrophages and other immune cells have important roles in maintaining adipose tissue homeostasis but also contribute to the etiology of obesity-associated chronic inflammatory metabolic diseases. In addition to hormonal signals such as insulin and norepinephrine, extracellular adenine nucleotides modulate lipid storage, fatty acid release and thermogenic responses in adipose tissues. The complex regulation of extracellular adenine nucleotides involves a network of ectoenzymes that convert ATP via ADP and AMP to adenosine. However, in WAT and BAT the processing of extracellular adenine nucleotides and its relevance for intercellular communications are still largely unknown. Based on our observations that in adipose tissues the adenosine-generating enzyme CD73 is mainly expressed by vascular endothelial cells, we studied glucose and lipid handling, energy expenditure and adaptive thermogenesis in mice lacking endothelial CD73 housed at different ambient temperatures. Under conditions of thermogenic activation, CD73 expressed by endothelial cells is dispensable for the expression of thermogenic genes as well as energy expenditure. Notably, thermoneutral housing leading to a state of low energy expenditure and lipid accumulation in adipose tissues resulted in enhanced glucose uptake into WAT of endothelial CD73-deficient mice. This effect was associated with elevated expression levels of de novo lipogenesis genes. Mechanistic studies provide evidence that extracellular adenosine is imported into adipocytes and converted to AMP by adenosine kinase. Subsequently, activation of the AMP kinase lowers the expression of de novo lipogenesis genes, most likely via inactivation of the transcription factor carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that endothelial-derived extracellular adenosine generated via the ectoenzyme CD73 is a paracrine factor shaping lipid metabolism in WAT.
Virus infection pattern imprinted and diversified the differentiation of T-cell memory in transcription and function
Authors: Wang Yuan , Mei Xinyue , Lin Zhengfang , Yang Xiaoyun , Cao Jinpeng , Zhong Jiaying , Wang Junxiang , Cheng Li , Wang Zhongfang
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Memory T (Tm) cells are a subpopulation of immune cells with great heterogeneity. Part of this diversity came from T cells that were primed with different viruses. Understanding the differences among different viral-specific Tms will help develop new therapeutic strategies for viral infections.

Methods

In this study, we compared the transcriptome of Tm cells that primed with CMV, EBV and SARS-CoV-2 with single-cell sequencing and studied the similarities and differences in terms of subpopulation composition, activation, metabolism and transcriptional regulation.

Results

We found that CMV is marked by plentiful cytotoxic Temra cells, while EBV is more abundant in functional Tem cells. More importantly, we found that CD28 and CTLA4 can be used as continuous indicators to interrogate the antiviral ability of T cells. Furthermore, we proposed that REL is a main regulatory factor for CMV-specific T cells producing cytokines and plays an antiviral role.

Discussion

Our data gives deep insight into molecular characteristics of Tm subsets from different viral infection, which is important to understand T cell immunization. Furthermore, our results provide basic background knowledges for T cell based vaccine development in future.
Microplastics and heavy metals in the sediment of Songkhla Lagoon: distribution and risk assessment
Authors: Pradit Siriporn , Noppradit Prakrit , Sornplang Kittiwara , Jitkaew Preyanuch , Kobketthawin Thawanrat , Nitirutsuwan Thongchai , Muenhor Dudsadee
Published: January 2024

Heavy metal and microplastic (MP) contamination of aquatic systems is a major environmental issue that affects human health globally. Songkhla lagoon, the largest lagoon in Thailand, also faced with the environmental issues. Here, this study reported the occurrence of heavy metal and MP in 10 sites of sediment in the Songkla lagoon. From the microplastic separation, fibers were found at all stations at 68.24% (15.15 items/g) and fragments were found at 31.76% (7.05 items/g). The highest number of MP particles was found at the area near the mouth of the lagoon (5.4 items/g). The average concentrations (mg/kg) of heavy metal at all sites showed the following trend: Mg (732.54 ± 247.04) > Mn (176.74 ± 83.68) > Zn (29.36 ± 39.47) > Cu (12.31 ± 24.58) > Pb (11.07 ± 7.60) > As (5.64 ± 3.30) > Co (2.90 ± 1.38) > Cd (0.22 ± 0.17). Regarding the overall risk assessment of MPs in lagoon sediment in this study, the risk was categorized as high for the polymer hazard index. The ecological risk index found Cd and As to have high ecological risk. High EF values were observed for As and Cd, which indicated severe enrichment. Based on the Igeo calculation, the majority of sampling stations were unpolluted to moderately contaminated (Pb, Zn, Mg, and Co). Furthermore, there was no significant correlation between MPs and heavy metals, except for Zn (r = 0.697) and Cu (r = 0.61) (both p< 0.05). The results of this study might provide valuable data to develop conservation policies for coastal lagoon areas.
Comparative proteomic analysis of cold seep clam Archivesica marissinica and shallow water shellfish Ruditapes philippinarum provides insights into the adaptation mechanisms of deep-sea mollusks
Authors: Kong Xue , Wang Wei , Chen Sunan , Mao Ning , Cai Yuefeng , Li Yanan , Xia Sunan , Zhang Haibin , Shen Xin
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The deep-sea environment is always characterized by high hydrostatic pressure, fluctuating temperatures, heavy metals, darkness, and others. The Vesicomyidae inhabit cold seep zones, hydrothermal vents, and other chemically reduced environments.

Methods

To enhance the understanding of the adaptation mechanisms of clams in extreme environments, a comprehensive proteomic study was conducted on the cold seep clam Archivesica marissinica and shallow water clam Ruditapes philippinarum.

Results

A total of 4,557 proteins were identified from the comparative groups. The Gene Ontology results indicated that the differentially expressed proteins (DEP) for the comparative group Rpgill vs. Amgill were enriched in the nitrogen compound metabolic process, and others. The comparative analysis for Amfoot vs. Amgill and Ammantle vs. Amgill revealed significant enrichment of the differential proteins that were involved in metal ion transport, divalent inorganic cation transport, and so on. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis for the comparative group Rpgill vs. Amgill was significantly enriched in the regulation of actin cytoskeleton, lysosome, and others. The proteins that exhibited differential expression in the cold seep clam’ different tissues were also enriched in important pathways, such as lysosome, fatty acid degradation, nitrogen metabolism.

Discussion

The further analysis identified crucial response proteins involved in various biological pathways. For example, the pattern recognition receptors, such as galectin and peptidoglycan recognition protein, participated in recognition of symbiotic microorganisms. The lysosome pathway members, such as cathepsin and saposins, were engaged in the degradation process of symbiont proteins during symbiont digestion. Profilin and gelsolin from actin cytoskeleton pathway might be pressure-related proteins. Furthermore, carbonic anhydrases from nitrogen metabolism KEGG pathway provide inorganic carbon for symbiotic bacteria. Additionally, Mn superoxide dismutase plays a role in the scavenging of superoxide anion radicals and antioxidant activity. Then, arginine kinases facilitate the low temperature adaptation of deep-sea shellfish with its cold adaptation characters. These findings offer novel perspectives on the proteins that are implicated in A. marisica’s response to cold seep environments, thereby contributing to the understanding of deep-sea biological adaptation and the preservation of deep-sea ecosystems.
The association between serum heat shock protein 72 and intestinal permeability with intestinal microbiota and clinical severity in patients with cerebral infarction
Authors: Zhu Jiahui , Dai Yijie , Tang Bo , Zhang Hao
Published: January 2024

Objectives

We aimed to compare serum heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) and intestinal permeability in patients with cerebral infarction (CI) and healthy individuals to reveal their correlations and link to gut microbiota alterations and clinical severity of CI.

Methods and results

Stool samples of 50 patients with CI and 46 healthy volunteers were analyzed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize intestinal flora profiles. Serum HSP72 and zonulin were assayed using enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). The obtained data were then subjected to comparative and correlative analysis. We found that the levels of zonulin and serum HSP72 were significantly higher in the CI group compared to the healthy group. Serum HSP72 and zonulin levels were positively correlated in the CI group and correlated positively with the clinical severity of CI. β diversity showed significant differences in intestinal microbiota composition between the two groups. In the CI patient group, the abundance of bacteria Eubacterium_fissicatena_group, Eubacterium_eligens_group, and Romboutsia manifested a remarkably positive correlation with serum HSP72. The abundance of bacteria Eubacterium_fissicatena_group and Acetivibrio had a significantly positive correlation with zonulin levels.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that an increase in serum HSP72 and zonulin levels was manifested in patients with CI and was related to specific gut microbiota alterations and the clinical severity of CI.
Mycoplasma synoviae LP78 is a fibronectin/plasminogen binding protein, putative adhesion, and potential diagnostic antigen
Authors: Han Shuizhong , Wang Ying , Wang Lizhen , Chang Wenchi , Wen Bo , Fang Junyang , Hou Xiaolan , Qi Xuefeng , Wang Jingyu
Published: January 2024

Mycoplasma synoviae (M. synoviae) is one of the major poultry pathogens causing infectious synovitis, airsacculitis, a high incidence of shell breakage, and egg production loss. However, the pathogenesis of M. synoviae remains unclear. Adhesion of mycoplasmas to host cells is a crucial step in infection and colonization. The purpose of this study was to determine the adhesive function of a putative P80 family lipoprotein (LP78) and evaluate its application in the detection of antibodies against M. synoviae. Recombinant LP78 (rLP78) was expressed in the supernatant component of Escherichia coli and mouse anti-rLP78 serum was prepared. Bioinformatic analysis and western blotting results revealed that LP78 was conservative among M. synoviae strains. It was distributed not only in the cytoplasm but also on the membrane of M. synoviae through western blotting and indirect immunofluorescence (IFA). The adherence of M. synoviae to DF-1 cells was significantly inhibited by mouse anti-rLP78 serum (p < 0.01). IFA revealed that rLP78 adhered to DF-1 cells, and this adherence was prevented by mouse anti-rLP78 serum. Furthermore, rLP78 was found to bind to the DF-1 cells membrane proteins in a dose-dependent manner by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Screening of DF-1 cells membrane proteins by western blotting showed that proteins with molecular weight of 35–40 kDa and 55–70 kDa bound to rLP78. Moreover, rLP78 was identified to be a fibronectin/plasminogen binding protein. The sensitivity and specificity of rLP78-based iELISA were 85.7 and 94.1%, respectively. The maximum dilution of positive serum (HI titer, 1:128) detected via rLP78-based iELISA was 1:6,400, whereas that detected using a commercial ELISA kit was 1:12,800–1:25,600. Both rLP78-based iELISA and the commercial ELISA kit detected seroconversion after 7 days of challenge and immunization. No cross-reactivity with positive sera against other avian pathogens was observed in rLP78-based iELISA. Collectively, these results indicate that LP78 is a fibronectin/plasminogen-binding adhesion protein of M. synoviae and a potential diagnostic antigen. The present study will facilitate a better understanding of the pathogenesis of M. synoviae and the development of new diagnostic.
Dynamic causal model application on hierarchical human motor control estimation in visuomotor tasks
Authors: Yang Ningjia , Ueda Sayako , Costa-García Álvaro , Okajima Shotaro , Tanabe Hiroki C. , Li Jingsong , Shimoda Shingo
Published: January 2024

Introduction

In brain function research, each brain region has been investigated independently, and how different parts of the brain work together has been examined using the correlations among them. However, the dynamics of how different brain regions interact with each other during time-varying tasks, such as voluntary motion tasks, are still not well-understood.

Methods

To address this knowledge gap, we conducted functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) using target tracking tasks with and without feedback. We identified the motor cortex, cerebellum, and visual cortex by using a general linear model during the tracking tasks. We then employed a dynamic causal model (DCM) and parametric empirical Bayes to quantitatively elucidate the interactions among the left motor cortex (ML), right cerebellum (CBR) and left visual cortex (VL), and their roles as higher and lower controllers in the hierarchical model.

Results

We found that the tracking task with visual feedback strongly affected the modulation of connection strength in ML → CBR and ML↔VL. Moreover, we found that the modulation of VL → ML, ML → ML, and ML → CBR by the tracking task with visual feedback could explain individual differences in tracking performance and muscle activity, and we validated these findings by leave-one-out cross-validation.

Discussion

We demonstrated the effectiveness of our approach for understanding the mechanisms underlying human motor control. Our proposed method may have important implications for the development of new technologies in personalized interventions and technologies, as it sheds light on how different brain regions interact and work together during a motor task.