bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perbandingan Kadar Flavonoid Total Berdasarkan Perbedaan Konsentrasi Pelarut Etanol Dari Ekstrak Daun Pegagan (Centella asiatica [L] Urban)
Authors: Khairunnisa Syifa , Hakim Ali Rakhman , Audina Mia
Published: December 2022

Latar belakang: Daun pegagan (Centella asiatica [L] Urban) secara empiris digunakan untuk pengobatan jerawat. Kandungan senyawa kimia yang memiliki efek farmakologis tersebut salah satunya flavonoid. Senyawa flavonoid yang bersifat polar dapat ditarik menggunakan pelarut polar berdasarkan tingkat kepolaran yang berbeda, dimana dapat mempengaruhi hasil kadar flavonoid total yang didapatkan.

Tujuan: Mengetahui konsentrasi pelarut etanol yang efektif dan optimal untuk mendapatkan kadar flavonoid total dari ekstrak daun pegagan (Centella asiatica [L.] Urban).

Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan metode pre eksperimental dengan desain rancangan acak kelompok dan metode penelitian dengan melakukan ekstraksi maserasi, uji kualitatif pereaksi warna dan kromatografi lapis tipis serta penentuan kadar flavonoid total menggunakan Spektrofotometri UV-Vis. Analisis data untuk mengetahui pengaruh perbedaan konsentrasi pelarut etanol menggunakan uji non parametik Mann-Whitney.

Hasil: Hasil uji kualitatif pereaksi warna dan kromatografi lapis tipis positif mengandung flavonoid. Penentuan kadar flavonoid total ekstrak etanol 70% sebesar 4,339 mg QE /g dan ekstrak etanol 96% sebesar 1,895 mg QE /g. Hasil analisis data konsentrasi pelarut etanol berpengaruh signifikan terhadap kadar flavonoid total.

Kesimpulan: Berdasarkan hasil penelitian ekstrak etanol 70% dan 96% positif mengandung senyawa metabolit sekunder flavonoid dari hasil pengukuran kadar flavonoid total ekstrak etanol 70% lebih efektif dalam menyari flavonoid dan konsentrasi pelarut etanol berpengaruh terhadap kadar flavonoid total
Efficient depolymerization of lignin through microwave-assisted Ru/C catalyst cooperated with metal chloride in methanol/formic acid media
Authors: Shao Lupeng , Wang Chao , Liu Yu , Wang Meng , Wang Luyan , Xu Feng
Published: December 2022

Lignin, an abundant aromatic biopolymer, has the potential to produce various biofuels and chemicals through biorefinery activities and is expected to benefit the future circular economy. Microwave-assisted efficient degradation of lignin in methanol/formic acid over Ru/C catalyst cooperated with metal chloride was investigated, concerning the effect of type and dosage of metal chloride, dosage of Ru/C, reaction temperature, and reaction time on depolymerized product yield and distribution. Results showed that 91.1 wt% yield of bio-oil including 13.4 wt% monomers was obtained under the optimum condition. Yields of guaiacol-type compounds and 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran were promoted in the presence of ZnCl2. Formic acid played two roles: (1) acid-catalyzed cleavage of linkages; (2) acted as an in situ hydrogen donor for hydrodeoxygenation in the presence of Ru/C. A possible mechanism for lignin degradation was proposed. This work will provide a beneficial approach for efficient depolymerization of lignin and controllable product distribution.
Cuproptosis-associated lncRNAs discern prognosis and immune microenvironment in sarcoma victims
Authors: Chu Binxiang , Zheng Haihong , Zheng Xiaohe , Feng Xingbing , Hong Zhenghua
Published: December 2022

Cuproptosis is a fresh form of the copper-elesclomol-triggered, mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) dependent cell death. Yet, the subsumed mechanism of cuproptosis-associated lncRNAs in carcinoma is not wholly clarified. Here, We appraised 580 cuproptosis-associated lncRNAs in sarcoma and thereafter construed a module composing of 6 cuproptosis lncRNAs, entitled CuLncScore, utilizing a machine learning methodology. It could outstandingly discern the prognosis of patients in parallel with discriminating tumor immune microenvironment traits. Moreover, we simulate the classification system of cuproptosis lncRNAs by unsupervised learning method to facilitate differentiation of clinical denouement and immunotherapy modality options. Notably, Our Taizhou cohort validated the stability of CuLncScore and the classification system. Taking a step further, we checked these 6 cuproptosis lncRNAs by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to ascertain their authenticity. All told, our investigations highlight that cuproptosis lncRNAs are involved in various components of sarcoma and assist in the formation of the tumor immune microenvironment. These results provide partial insights to further comprehend the molecular mechanisms of cuproptosis lncRNAs in sarcoma and could be helpful for the development of personalized therapeutic strategies targeting cuproptosis or cuproptosis lncRNAs.
Gut and genital tract microbiomes: Dysbiosis and link to gynecological disorders
Authors: Elkafas Hoda , Walls Melinique , Al-Hendy Ayman , Ismail Nahed
Published: December 2022

Every year, millions of women are affected by genital tract disorders, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), endometrial cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and uterine fibroids (UFs). These disorders pose a significant economic burden on healthcare systems and have serious implications for health and fertility outcomes. This review explores the relationships between gut, vaginal, and uterine dysbiosis and the pathogenesis of various diseases of the female genital tract. In recent years, reproductive health clinicians and scientists have focused on the microbiome to investigate its role in the pathogenesis and prevention of such diseases. Recent studies of the gut, vaginal, and uterine microbiomes have identified patterns in bacterial composition and changes across individuals’ lives associated with specific healthy and diseased states, particularly regarding the effects of the estrogen–gut microbiome axis on estrogen-driven disorders (such as endometrial cancer, endometriosis, and UFs) and disorders associated with estrogen deficiency (such as PCOS). Furthermore, this review discusses the contribution of vitamin D deficiency to gut dysbiosis and altered estrogen metabolism as well as how these changes play key roles in the pathogenesis of UFs. More research on the microbiome influences on reproductive health and fertility is vital.
Empagliflozin inhibits coronary microvascular dysfunction and reduces cardiac pericyte loss in db/db mice
Authors: Tu Yimin , Li Qing , Zhou Yuanchen , Ye Zixiang , Wu Chao , Xie Enmin , Li Yike , Li Peizhao , Wu Yaxin , Guo Ziyu , Yu Changan , Zheng Jingang , Gao Yanxiang
Published: December 2022

Background

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is a pathophysiological feature of diabetic heart disease. However, whether sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors protect the cardiovascular system by alleviating CMD is not known.

Objective

We observed the protective effects of empagliflozin (EMPA) on diabetic CMD.

Materials and methods

The mice were randomly divided into a db/db group and a db/db + EMPA group, and db/m mice served as controls. At 8 weeks of age, the db/db + EMPA group was given empagliflozin 10 mg/(kg⋅d) by gavage for 8 weeks. Body weight, fasting blood glucose and blood pressure were dynamically observed. Cardiac systolic and diastolic function and coronary flow reserve (CFR) were detected using echocardiography. The coronary microvascular structure and distribution of cardiac pericytes were observed using immunofluorescence staining. Picrosirius red staining was performed to evaluate cardiac fibrosis.

Results

Empagliflozin lowered the increased fasting blood glucose levels of the db/db group. The left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular fractional shortening, E/A ratio and E/e′ ratio were not significantly different between the three groups. CFR was decreased in the db/db group, but EMPA significantly improved CFR. In contrast to the sparse and abnormal expansion of coronary microvessels observed in the db/db group, the number of coronary microvessels was increased, and the capillary diameter was decreased in the db/db + EMPA group. The number and microvascular coverage of cardiac pericytes were reduced in the db/db mice but were improved by EMPA. The cardiac fibrosis was increased in db/db group and may alleviate by EMPA.

Conclusion

Empagliflozin inhibited CMD and reduced cardiac pericyte loss in diabetic mice.
Revisiting EKC hypothesis in context of renewable energy, human development and moderating role of technological innovations in E-7 countries?
Authors: Saqib Najia , Usman Muhammad , Radulescu Magdalena , Sinisi Crenguta Ileana , Secara Carmen Gabriela , Tolea Claudia
Published: December 2022

The present study examines the potential of the traditional environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) with an extension for growing industrialized economies, including Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Mexico and Turkey (E-7 economies) spanning from 1995 to 2019. Since the E-7 economies are still in a growing phase, this study adds to the EKC phenomenon by taking into description human development, the use of renewable energy, and technological innovations for investigation. Second-generational panel econometrics techniques, such as cross-sectional augmented autoregressive distributive lag (CS-ARDL), Augmented Mean Group (AMG), and Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality tests, form the basis of the experimental framework’s design. The study confirms the existence of the EKC phenomena in E-7 economies, where income expansion is prioritized in relation to environmental sustainability. The study’s findings demonstrate that technological modernization helps to mitigate pollution level. Therefore, human development, technological innovation, and the use of renewable energy are held up as the panacea for reducing carbon emissions over the time period under study. Finally, some further policy suggestions are provided.
Minimizing the environmental impact of unused pharmaceuticals: Review focused on prevention
Authors: Paut Kusturica Milica , Jevtic Marija , Ristovski Jovana Trifunovic
Published: December 2022

Pharmaceuticals are essential for human health, but they become an environmental concern when entering the environment which occurs when residues are excreted after consumption or when unused pharmaceuticals are discarded improperly. Although there are no developed detection methods for all pharmaceuticals that reach the ecosystem, certain groups have been proven to cause adverse effects on ecosystems, including increased mortality in aquatic species and changes in physiology, behavior, or reproduction. Particular attention is devoted to these groups of pharmaceuticals and their environmental impact. In this review, the authors suggest measures for the reduction of unused pharmaceuticals in the environment, with a strong emphasis on prevention. Various policy interventions are recommended across the lifecycle including source-directed, user-orientated, and waste management measures, to prevent the creation of household pharmaceutical waste and to ensure environmentally friendly ways of pharmaceutical household waste disposal. Preventive measures include rational pharmaceutical consumption, prescribing greener drugs, or designing pharmaceuticals that are benign and easily biodegradable, improved disease prevention, personalized medicine, enhanced dimensioning of pack sizes, and marketplaces for redistribution of unused pharmaceuticals. The next step is to prevent unavoidable waste to reach the environment, so proper collection and disposal of unused pharmaceuticals is of utmost importance. Finally, educating health professionals and the public and partnership between environmental and healthcare scientists are of vital significance in all stages of the pharmaceuticals’ lifecycle. Minimalization of the level of pharmaceuticals in the environment will benefit human life.
Immunomodulatory role of metalloproteases in cancers: Current progress and future trends
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Kai , Tan Xiaojing , Li Zhenxiang , Wang Haiyong
Published: December 2022

Metalloproteinases (MPs) is a large family of proteinases with metal ions in their active centers. According to the different domains metalloproteinases can be divided into a variety of subtypes mainly including Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), A Disintegrin and Metalloproteases (ADAMs) and ADAMs with Thrombospondin Motifs (ADAMTS). They have various functions such as protein hydrolysis, cell adhesion and remodeling of extracellular matrix. Metalloproteinases expressed in multiple types of cancers and participate in many pathological processes involving tumor genesis and development, invasion and metastasis by regulating signal transduction and tumor microenvironment. In this review, based on the current research progress, we summarized the structure of MPs, their expression and especially immunomodulatory role and mechanisms in cancers. Additionally, a relevant and timely update of recent advances and future directions were provided for the diagnosis and immunotherapy targeting MPs in cancers.
Dissecting CD8+ T cell pathology of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection by single-cell immunoprofiling
Authors: Schreibing Felix , Hannani Monica T. , Kim Hyojin , Nagai James S. , Ticconi Fabio , Fewings Eleanor , Bleckwehl Tore , Begemann Matthias , Torow Natalia , Kuppe Christoph , Kurth Ingo , Kranz Jennifer , Frank Dario , Anslinger Teresa M. , Ziegler Patrick , Kraus Thomas , Enczmann Jürgen , Balz Vera , Windhofer Frank , Balfanz Paul , Kurts Christian , Marx Gernot , Marx Nikolaus , Dreher Michael , Schneider Rebekka K. , Saez-Rodriguez Julio , Costa Ivan , Hayat Sikander , Kramann Rafael
Published: December 2022

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 infection results in varying disease severity, ranging from asymptomatic infection to severe illness. A detailed understanding of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 is critical to unravel the causative factors underlying differences in disease severity and to develop optimal vaccines against new SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Methods

We combined single-cell RNA and T cell receptor sequencing with CITE-seq antibodies to characterize the CD8+ T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection at high resolution and compared responses between mild and severe COVID-19.

Results

We observed increased CD8+ T cell exhaustion in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and identified a population of NK-like, terminally differentiated CD8+ effector T cells characterized by expression of FCGR3A (encoding CD16). Further characterization of NK-like CD8+ T cells revealed heterogeneity among CD16+ NK-like CD8+ T cells and profound differences in cytotoxicity, exhaustion, and NK-like differentiation between mild and severe disease conditions.

Discussion

We propose a model in which differences in the surrounding inflammatory milieu lead to crucial differences in NK-like differentiation of CD8+ effector T cells, ultimately resulting in the appearance of NK-like CD8+ T cell populations of different functionality and pathogenicity. Our in-depth characterization of the CD8+ T cell-mediated response to SARS-CoV-2 infection provides a basis for further investigation of the importance of NK-like CD8+ T cells in COVID-19 severity.
Impact of neutrophil extracellular traps on fluid properties, blood flow and complement activation
Authors: Burmeister Antonia , Vidal-y-Sy Sabine , Liu Xiaobo , Mess Christian , Wang Yuanyuan , Konwar Swagata , Tschongov Todor , Häffner Karsten , Huck Volker , Schneider Stefan W. , Gorzelanny Christian
Published: December 2022

Introduction

The intravascular formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is a trigger for coagulation and blood vessel occlusion. NETs are released from neutrophils as a response to strong inflammatory signals in the course of different diseases such as COVID-19, cancer or antiphospholipid syndrome. NETs are composed of large, chromosomal DNA fibers decorated with a variety of proteins such as histones. Previous research suggested a close mechanistic crosstalk between NETs and the coagulation system involving the coagulation factor XII (FXII), von Willebrand factor (VWF) and tissue factor. However, the direct impact of NET-related DNA fibers on blood flow and blood aggregation independent of the coagulation cascade has remained elusive.

Methods

In the present study, we used different microfluidic setups in combination with fluorescence microscopy to investigate the influence of neutrophil-derived extracellular DNA fibers on blood rheology, intravascular occlusion and activation of the complement system.

Results

We found that extended DNA fiber networks decelerate blood flow and promote intravascular occlusion of blood vessels independent of the plasmatic coagulation. Associated with the DNA dependent occlusion of the flow channel was the strong activation of the complement system characterized by the production of complement component 5a (C5a). Vice versa, we detected that the local activation of the complement system at the vascular wall was a trigger for NET release.

Discussion

In conclusion, we found that DNA fibers as the principal component of NETs are sufficient to induce blood aggregation even in the absence of the coagulation system. Moreover, we discovered that complement activation at the endothelial surface promoted NET formation. Our data envisions DNA degradation and complement inhibition as potential therapeutic strategies in NET-induced coagulopathies.
Expounding the role of tick in Africa swine fever virus transmission and seeking effective prevention measures: A review
Authors: Lv Tianbao , Xie Xufeng , Song Ning , Zhang Shilei , Ding Yue , Liu Kun , Diao Luteng , Chen Xi , Jiang Shuang , Li Tiger , Zhang Wenlong , Cao Yongguo
Published: December 2022

African swine fever (ASF), a highly contagious, deadly infectious disease, has caused huge economic losses to animal husbandry with a 100% mortality rate of the most acute and acute infection, which is listed as a legally reported animal disease by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). African swine fever virus (ASFV) is the causative agent of ASF, which is the only member of the Asfarviridae family. Ornithodoros soft ticks play an important role in ASFV transmission by active biological or mechanical transmission or by passive transport or ingestion, particularly in Africa, Europe, and the United States. First, this review summarized recent reports on (1) tick species capable of transmitting ASFV, (2) the importance of ticks in the transmission and epidemiological cycle of ASFV, and (3) the ASFV strains of tick transmission, to provide a detailed description of tick-borne ASFV. Second, the dynamics of tick infection with ASFV and the tick-induced immune suppression were further elaborated to explain how ticks spread ASFV. Third, the development of the anti-tick vaccine was summarized, and the prospect of the anti-tick vaccine was recapitulated. Then, the marked attenuated vaccine, ASFV-G-ΔI177L, was compared with those of the anti-tick vaccine to represent potential therapeutic or strategies to combat ASF.
EGFR-targeted bacteriophage lambda penetrates model stromal and colorectal carcinoma tissues, is taken up into carcinoma cells, and interferes with 3-dimensional tumor formation
Authors: Huh Haein , Chen Ding-Wen , Foldvari Marianna , Slavcev Roderick , Blay Jonathan
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Colorectal cancer and other adult solid cancers pose a significant challenge for successful treatment because the tumor microenvironment both hinders the action of conventional therapeutics and suppresses the immune activities of infiltrating leukocytes. The immune suppression is largely the effect of enhanced local mediators such as purine nucleosides and eicosanoids. Genetic approaches have the promise of interfering with these mechanisms of local immunosuppression to allow both intrinsic and therapeutic immunological anticancer processes. Bacterial phages offer a novel means of enabling access into tissues for therapeutic genetic manipulations.

Methods

We generated spheroids of fibroblastic and CRC cancer cells to model the 3-dimensional stromal and parenchymal components of colorectal tumours. We used these to examine the access and effects of both wildtype (WT) and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-presenting bacteriophage λ (WT- λ and EGF-λ) as a means of delivery of targeted genetic interventions in solid cancers. We used both confocal microscopy of spheroids exposed to AF488-tagged phages, and the recovery of viable phages as measured by plaque-forming assays to evaluate access; and measures of mitochondrial enzyme activity and cellular ATP to evaluate the outcome on the constituent cells.

Results

Using flourescence-tagged derivatives of these bacteriophages (AF488-WT-λ and AF488-EGF-λ) we showed that phage entry into these tumour microenvironments was possible and that the EGF ligand enabled efficient and persistent uptake into the cancer cell mass. EGF-λ became localized in the intracellular portion of cancer cells and was subjected to subsequent cellular processing. The targeted λ phage had no independent effect upon mature tumour spheroids, but interfered with the early formation and growth of cancer tissues without the need for addition of a toxic payload, suggesting that it might have beneficial effects by itself in addition to any genetic intervention delivered to the tumour. Interference with spheroid formation persisted over the duration of culture.

Discussion

We conclude that targeted phage technology is a feasible strategy to facilitate delivery into colorectal cancer tumour tissue (and by extension other solid carcinomas) and provides an appropriate delivery vehicle for a gene therapeutic that can reduce local immunosuppression and/or deliver an additional direct anticancer activity.
The microRNA processing subunit DGCR8 is required for a T cell-dependent germinal center response
Authors: Daum Patrick , Ottmann Shannon R. , Meinzinger Julia , Schulz Sebastian R. , Côrte-Real Joana , Hauke Manuela , Roth Edith , Schuh Wolfgang , Mielenz Dirk , Jäck Hans-Martin , Pracht Katharina
Published: December 2022

We have previously shown that the microRNA (miRNA) processor complex consisting of the RNAse Drosha and the DiGeorge Critical Region (DGCR) 8 protein is essential for B cell maturation. To determine whether miRNA processing is required to initiate T cell-mediated antibody responses, we deleted DGCR8 in maturing B2 cells by crossing a mouse with loxP-flanked DGCR8 alleles with a CD23-Cre mouse. As expected, non-immunized mice showed reduced numbers of mature B2 cells and IgG-secreting cells and diminished serum IgG titers. In accordance, germinal centers and antigen-specific IgG-secreting cells were absent in mice immunized with T-dependent antigens. Therefore, DGCR8 is required to mount an efficient T-dependent antibody response. However, DGCR8 deletion in B1 cells was incomplete, resulting in unaltered B1 cell numbers and normal IgM and IgA titers in DGCR8-knock-out mice. Therefore, this mouse model could be used to analyze B1 responses in the absence of functional B2 cells.
Identifying seasonal distribution patterns of fin whales across the Scotia Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula region using a novel approach combining habitat suitability models and ensemble learning methods
Authors: Viquerat Sacha , Waluda Claire M. , Kennedy Amy S. , Jackson Jennifer A. , Hevia Marta , Carroll Emma L. , Buss Danielle L. , Burkhardt Elke , Thain Scott , Smith Patrick , Secchi Eduardo R. , Santora Jarrod A. , Reiss Christian , Lindstrøm Ulf , Krafft Bjørn A. , Gittins George , Dalla Rosa Luciano , Biuw Martin , Herr Helena
Published: December 2022

Following their near extirpation by industrial whaling of the 20thcentury, the population status of Southern Hemisphere fin whales (SHFW) remains unknown. Systematic surveys estimating fin whale abundance in the Southern Ocean are not yet available. Records of fin whale sightings have been collected by a variety of organisations over the past few decades, incorporating both opportunistic data and dedicated survey data. Together, these isolated data sets represent a potentially valuable source of information on the seasonality, distribution and abundance of SHFW. We compiled records across 40 years from the Antarctic Peninsula and Scotia Sea from multiple sources and used a novel approach combining ensemble learning and a maximum entropy model to estimate abundance and distribution of SHFW in this region. Our results show a seasonal distribution pattern with pronounced centres of distribution from January-March along the West Antarctic Peninsula. Our new approach allowed us to estimate abundance of SHFW for discrete areas from a mixed data set of mainly opportunistic presence only data.
Isotope constraints on nitrogen dynamics in the upper water column of the South China Sea
Authors: Yan Xiuli , Yang Jin-Yu Terence , Xu Min Nina , Tan Ehui , Zheng Zhenzhen , Zou Wenbin , Dai Minhan , Kao Shuh-Ji
Published: December 2022

The supply of nitrogen (N) from various external and internal sources into the euphotic zone, e.g., atmospheric N deposition (AND), upwelling, lateral intrusion, and remineralization, modulates the biogeochemical and climatic roles of oligotrophic oceans and complicates N dynamics in the upper water column (≤200 m). However, our ability to resolve the mechanisms controlling upper-ocean N cycling is limited by the lack of high-resolution vertical observations. Here, we analyzed concentrations and dual isotopes of nitrate (NO3–) in the upper 200 m of the oligotrophic South China Sea. By examining dual isotopic signatures of NO3– (δ15NNO3 and δ18ONO3) and multiple associated parameters vertically throughout the upper water column, we resolved the dominant N sources and processes, including AND/N2-fixation, assimilative fractionation, and nitrification, and quantitatively evaluated their contributions in the vertical distribution of NO3–, which can be separated into the Δδ18ONO3-positive (δ18ONO3−obs−δ18ONO3−200m>0) and Δδ18ONO3-negative layers (δ18ONO3−obs−δ18ONO3−200m<0) according to the deviation in δ18ONO3 at a given depth (δ18ONO3-obs) from that at 200 m (δ18ONO3-200m). In the Δδ18ONO3-positive layer, the NO3– assimilated by phytoplankton was largely sourced from nitrification (39 ± 11%) and AND/N2 fixation (17-28%), whereas these two processes accounted for 17 ± 10% and 7 ± 6% of the total NO3– pool in the Δδ18ONO3-negative layer. Considering a substantial contribution of the regenerated (nitrification-sourced) NO3– to the total NO3– pool especially in the Δδ18ONO3-positive layer, caution should be taken that the new production assessed by the rates of NO3– uptake may be significantly overestimated in the SCS. These findings not only highlight the importance of these biogeochemical processes to NO3– dynamics in the upper water column of marginal seas, but also with important implications for the estimation of biological carbon pump and/or the f-ratio.
Size matters: Physiological sensitivity of the scallop Argopecten purpuratus to seasonal cooling and deoxygenation upwelling-driven events
Authors: Ramajo Laura , Sola-Hidalgo Camila , Valladares María , Astudillo Orlando , Inostroza Jorge
Published: December 2022

Environment imposes physiological constraints which are life-stage specific as growth-maintenance and/or growth-reproduction energetic requirements are size and volume-dependent. The scallop Argopecten purpuratus, one of the most important bivalve species subjected to fishery and aquaculture along the Humboldt Current System, inhabits spaces affected by continuous changes in temperature, pH, oxygen, and food availability driven by remote and local oceanographic processes. Specifically, in Chile, this species is mainly cultured in central-north Chile where is permanently affected by upwelling events of dissimilar intensity and duration which generate local conditions of acidification, deoxygenation, and cooling with different magnitudes. However, to date, it remains unknown how this economic valuable resource is physiologically affected throughout its life cycle by the continuous environmental changes driven by upwelling events of different intensities and duration along the year. Here, for the first time, A. purpuratus life-stage physiological sensitivity was assessed at a seasonal scale through a year-field experiment where growth, calcification, and survivorship were evaluated. Our study shows how seasonal differences in the upwelling phenology (here measured as changes in temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and primary productivity, but also as the number, duration, and intensity of cooling and de-oxygenation events) notably impacted the A. purpuratus physiological performance from juvenile to adult life-stages. This was especially noticeable during the spring season which showed the most intense cooling and deoxygenation events driven by stronger favorable-upwelling winds and the lowest growth and gross calcification rates (the highest decalcification rates) where adult stages showed the lowest performance. On the other hand, A. purpuratus survivorship was not significantly affected by upwelling intensity which would be providing evidence of the high physiological flexibility and well-locally adapted is this species to fluctuating and occasional stressful environmental conditions. Our results are significantly relevant in the climate change context as some upwelling systems are at risk to change shortly (i.e., an upwelling intensification in frequency and intensity) as a consequence of changes in the atmospheric pressures that modulate favourable-upwelling winds. These changes may certainly increase the climate related-risks of the entire socio-ecological systems related to the fishery and aquaculture of A. purpuratus along the Humboldt Current System.
A numerical investigation exploring the potential role of porous fencing in reducing firebrand impingement on homes
Authors: Atwood Loren , Wagenbrenner Natalie
Published: December 2022

Firebrand impingement is a leading cause of home ignitions from wildland fire. The use of porous fencing has recently been proposed as a potential method for mitigating firebrand impingement on homes. A porous fence can act as a windbreak to alter the near-surface flow and induce particle deposition, as demonstrated in other applications, such as the use of snow fences to protect roadways from drifting snow. Conservation advocates have proposed the use of fire-resistant vegetation to act as a fence upwind of homes or subdivisions. Porous fences could also be constructed from fire-resistant materials such as metal, rock, or composites. This numerical investigation of the effectiveness of porous fencing to reduce firebrand impingement on homes conducted a series of experiments to explore the effect of porous fencing on the near-surface flow field and firebrand transport downwind of the fence. We also evaluated the sensitivity of the results to various fence, flow, and firebrand properties, including fence height, fence porosity, wind speed, firebrand source location, and firebrand size. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the concept of using a fence to induce firebrand deposition upwind of homes. Our results showed that porous fencing can reduce firebrand impingement on homes by up to 35% under certain conditions; however, fencing can also increase impingement on homes. The mitigation effectiveness depended on the proximity of the firebrand source, distance between the fence and home as a function of fence height, wind speed, and firebrand size. A series of key findings and recommendations are provided.
Targeted alpha therapy for glioblastoma
Authors: Kunikowska Jolanta , Morgenstern Alfred , Pełka Kacper , Bruchertseifer Frank , Królicki Leszek
Published: December 2022

According to the 2021 World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System, glioblastoma (GB) is a primary brain tumor and presents with the worst prognosis. Due to its infiltrating characteristic, molecular heterogeneity, and only partly preserved function of the blood-brain barrier, the median overall survival time is short (9–15 months), regardless of comprehensive treatment including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Several novel treatment strategies are under investigation. Unfortunately, none of them produced successful results; 90% of patients have a recurrence of the disease within 6 months. Local administration of the drug could be a promising approach to delivering treatment with minimized side effects, due to the recurrence of 95% glioblastomas in a margin of 2 cm at the primary site. Several ligand-receptor systems have been evaluated, such as targeting tenascin, the extracellular matrix protein, or radiolabeled somatostatin analogs, as it is overexpressed with the SSTR-2 receptor system in around 80% of gliomas. Moreover, this study revealed that the NK-1 receptor is overexpressed in GB, suggesting that substance P (SP) may serve as a ligand. A variety of radioisotopes, beta- (131I, 90Y, or 177 Lu) and alpha emitters (213Bi, 225Ac, or 211At), with different physical properties were tested for treatment. Alpha particles have many advantages over beta radiation such as short range with higher linear energy transfer. According to that characteristic, it is extremely dose delivered to the targeted cells, while reducing harm to nearby healthy tissue. Additionally, the biological effect of alpha radiation is independent of the cell cycle phase, cell oxygenation and O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene promoter methylation status. In this article, we summarize the experience with local treatment of primary and secondary GBs with locally used radioisotopes such as [213Bi]Bi-DOTA-SP or [225Ac]Ac-DOTA-SP.
Low-cost gel-filled microwell array device for screening marine microbial consortium
Authors: Duran Clelia , Zhang Shiyi , Yang Chongyang , Falco Maria Lorena , Cravo-Laureau Cristiana , Suzuki-Minakuchi Chiho , Nojiri Hideaki , Duran Robert , Sassa Fumihiro
Published: December 2022

In order to exploit the microbes present in the environment for their beneficial resources, effective selection and isolation of microbes from environmental samples is essential. In this study, we fabricated a gel-filled microwell array device using resin for microbial culture. The device has an integrated sealing mechanism that enables high-density isolation based on the culture of microorganisms; the device is easily manageable, facilitating observation using bright-field microscopy. This low-cost device made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)/polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has 900 microwells (600 μm × 600 μm × 700 μm) filled with a microbial culture gel medium in glass slide-sized plates. It also has grooves for maintaining the moisture content in the micro-gel. The partition wall between the wells has a highly hydrophobic coating to inhibit microbial migration to neighboring wells and to prevent exchange of liquid substances. After being hermetically sealed, the device can maintain moisture in the agarose gels for 7 days. In the bacterial culture experiment using this device, environmental bacteria were isolated and cultured in individual wells after 3 days. Moreover, the isolated bacteria were then picked up from wells and re-cultured. This device is effective for the first screening of microorganisms from marine environmental samples.
Administration of Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632 to elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic: Nasal and fecal metataxonomic analysis and fatty acid profiling
Authors: Mozota Marta , Castro Irma , Gómez-Torres Natalia , Arroyo Rebeca , Gutiérrez-Díaz Isabel , Delgado Susana , Rodríguez Juan Miguel , Alba Claudio
Published: December 2022

Elderly was the most affected population during the first COVID-19 and those living in nursing homes represented the most vulnerable group, with high mortality rates, until vaccines became available. In a previous article, we presented an open-label trial showing the beneficial effect of the strain Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632 (previously known as L. salivarius MP101) on the functional and nutritional status, and on the nasal and fecal inflammatory profiles of elderly residing in a nursing home highly affected by the pandemic. The objective of this post-hoc analysis was to elucidate if there were changes in the nasal and fecal bacteriomes of a subset of these patients as a result of the administration of the strain for 4 months and, also, its impact on their fecal fatty acids profiles. Culture-based methods showed that, while L. salivarius (species level) could not be detected in any of the fecal samples at day 0, L. salivarius CECT 30632 (strain level) was present in all the recruited people at day 120. Paradoxically, the increase in the L. salivarius counts was not reflected in changes in the metataxonomic analysis of the nasal and fecal samples or in changes in the fatty acid profiles in the fecal samples of the recruited people. Overall, our results indicate that L. salivarius CECT 30632 colonized, at least temporarily, the intestinal tract of the recruited elderly and may have contributed to improvements in their functional, nutritional, and immunological status, without changing the general structure of their nasal and fecal bacteriomes when assessed at the genus level. They also suggest the ability of low abundance bacteria to train immunity.
The administration of Enterococcus faecium SF68 counteracts compositional shifts in the gut microbiota of diet-induced obese mice
Authors: Panattoni Adelaide , Calvigioni Marco , Benvenuti Laura , D’Antongiovanni Vanessa , Pellegrini Carolina , Di Salvo Clelia , Mazzantini Diletta , Celandroni Francesco , Fornai Matteo , Antonioli Luca , Ghelardi Emilia
Published: December 2022

Microorganisms with probiotic properties are eliciting an increasing interest as coadjuvants in the prevention and treatment of obesity through modulation of the gut microbiota. In this study, a probiotic formulation based on Enterococcus faecium SF68 was administered to mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) to evaluate its efficacy in reducing body mass gain and in modulating the intestinal bacterial composition. Both stool and ileum samples were collected from untreated and treated mice and absolute abundances of specific taxa constituting the gut microbial consortium were evaluated. SF68 administration significantly reduced the HFD-induced weight gain. In these animals, the microbial gut composition shifted toward an enrichment in microbes positively correlated with mucus thickness, lower inflammation, lower glycemia levels, and SCFA production (i.e., Bifidobacterium, Akkermansia, and Faecalibacterium), as well as a depletion in bacterial phyla having a key role in obesity (i.e., Firmicutes, Proteobacteria). Our results demonstrate the efficacy of E. faecium SF68 in adjusting the composition of the dysbiotic microbiota of HFD-fed animals, thus ameliorating clinical conditions and exerting anti-obesity effects.
New insights into bacterial mechanisms and potential intestinal epithelial cell therapeutic targets of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Liang Bing , Wu Changhao , Wang Chao , Sun Wenshe , Chen Wujun , Hu Xiaokun , Liu Ning , Xing Dongming
Published: December 2022

The global incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has increased rapidly in recent years, but its exact etiology remains unclear. In the past decade, IBD has been reported to be associated with dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Although not yet proven to be a cause or consequence of IBD, the common hypothesis is that at least some alterations in the microbiome are protective or pathogenic. Furthermore, intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) serve as a protective physical barrier for gut microbiota, essential for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and actively contributes to the mucosal immune system. Thus, dysregulation within the intestinal epithelium increases intestinal permeability, promotes the entry of bacteria, toxins, and macromolecules, and disrupts intestinal immune homeostasis, all of which are associated with the clinical course of IBD. This article presents a selective overview of recent studies on bacterial mechanisms that may be protective or promotive of IBD in biological models. Moreover, we summarize and discuss the recent discovery of key modulators and signaling pathways in the IECs that could serve as potential IBD therapeutic targets. Understanding the role of the IECs in the pathogenesis of IBD may help improve the understanding of the inflammatory process and the identification of potential therapeutic targets to help ameliorate this increasingly common disease.
Effects of straw returning combined with earthworm addition on nitrification and ammonia oxidizers in paddy soil
Authors: Chu Xiangqian , Bai Naling , Zheng Xianqing , Wang Quanhua , Pan Xi , Li Shuangxi , Zhang Juanqin , Zhang Haiyun , He Wenjie , Zhong Feng , Lv Weiguang , Zhang Hanlin
Published: December 2022

Highlights

Straw returning combined with earthworm increased the richness of ammonia oxidizers.

NH4+-N was a critical driver for altering the ammonia oxidizer community structure.

Earthworm addition significantly increased soil PNR.

Under the alkaline paddy soil, AOB dominated in soil nitrification.
Contamination of Proteus mirabilis harbouring various clinically important antimicrobial resistance genes in retail meat and aquatic products from food markets in China
Authors: Ma Wan-Qing , Han Ying-Yue , Zhou Lin , Peng Wen-Qi , Mao Ling-Ya , Yang Xue , Wang Qin , Zhang Tie-Jun , Wang Hong-Ning , Lei Chang-Wei
Published: December 2022

Proteus mirabilis is an opportunistic pathogen frequently associated with nosocomial infection and food poisoning cases. Contamination of P. mirabilis in retail meat products may be important transmission routes for human infection with P. mirabilis. In this study a total of 89 P. mirabilis strains were isolated from 347 samples in 14 food markets in China and subjected to whole-genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all 89 strains were divided into 81 different clones (SNPs >5), indicating high genetic diversity of P. mirabilis in food markets. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed that 81 (91.01%) strains displayed multidrug resistance profiles. Seventy-three different resistance genes (or variants) were found, including various clinically important antimicrobial resistance genes aac(6′)-Ib-cr (77.53%), blaCTX-M (39.33%), fosA3 (30.34%), as well as multiresistance gene cfr (4.50%), tigecycline resistance gene cluster tmexCD3-toprJ1 (4.50%) and carbapenemase gene blaNDM-1 (1.12%). Diverse genetic elements including Tn7 transposon, plasmid, SXT/R391 integrative conjugative element were associated with the horizontal transfer of cfr. tmexCD3-toprJ1 and blaNDM-1 were located on ICEPmiChnJZ26 and Salmonella genomic island 1, respectively. Our study emphasized high contamination of P. mirabilis harbouring various clinically important antimicrobial resistance genes in retail meat and aquatic products, which might be an important issue in terms of food safety and human health.
Evidence of competition between electrogens shaping electroactive microbial communities in microbial electrolysis cells
Authors: Abadikhah Marie , Rodriguez Miguel de Celis , Persson Frank , Wilén Britt-Marie , Farewell Anne , Modin Oskar
Published: December 2022

In single-chamber microbial electrolysis cells (MECs), organic compounds are oxidized at the anode, liberating electrons that are used for hydrogen evolution at the cathode. Microbial communities on the anode and cathode surfaces and in the bulk liquid determine the function of the MEC. The communities are complex, and their assembly processes are poorly understood. We investigated MEC performance and community composition in nine MECs with a carbon cloth anode and a cathode of carbon nanoparticles, titanium, or stainless steel. Differences in lag time during the startup of replicate MECs suggested that the initial colonization by electrogenic bacteria was stochastic. A network analysis revealed negative correlations between different putatively electrogenic Deltaproteobacteria on the anode. Proximity to the conductive anode surface is important for electrogens, so the competition for space could explain the observed negative correlations. The cathode communities were dominated by hydrogen-utilizing taxa such as Methanobacterium and had a much lower proportion of negative correlations than the anodes. This could be explained by the diffusion of hydrogen throughout the cathode biofilms, reducing the need to compete for space.
Genetic diversity of Venturia carpophila populations from different hosts and geographic regions in China
Authors: Zhou Yang , Chaisiri Chingchai , Luo Mei , Fan Fei , Wang Yu-Fu , Yin Liang-Fen , Yin Wei-Xiao , Luo Chao-Xi
Published: December 2022

Venturia carpophila, the causal agent of scab disease of peach, mume, and apricot, is widely distributed around the world. Scab of stone fruits is an important disease in China. However, little is known about the population biology and genetic diversity of the V. carpophila. To better understand the genetic diversity and population structure of V. carpophila, 186 single-spore isolates from different hosts and geographic regions were obtained and analyzed by using 31 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. This included 156 isolates from peach spanning 14 provinces, 15 isolates from mume and 15 isolates from apricot in Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU). Diversity analysis with SSR markers showed a low incidence of polymorphisms within mume isolates (32.59% of markers), but a higher incidence of polymorphisms within peach isolates (42.96%) and apricot isolates (57.04%). Within peach isolates, Nei’s average gene diversity ranged from 0.07 for Hebei population to 0.18 for Hubei population. AMOVA analysis revealed that 13% of the observed genetic diversity was partitioned among the geographic populations, while 40% of the observed genetic diversity was partitioned among the host populations. Other analyses (PCoA, STRUCTURE, DAPC, MSN, and UPGMA) indicated that the Chinese V. carpophila populations could be clustered into three distinct genetic groups, which correspond to the host boundaries of peach, mume and apricot. The genetic identity of V. carpophila isolates throughout the range is dependent on hosts, but not geographic regions.
Studies on biotransformation mechanism of Fusarium sp. C39 to enhance saponin content of Paridis Rhizoma
Authors: Chen Yiyang , Yu Dan , Huo Jinhai , Huang Nannan , Zhang Meng , Du Xiaowei
Published: December 2022

Paridis Rhizoma is a natural medicine with strong anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activities. Our previous research have found that Fusarium sp. C39, an endophytic fungus isolated from Dioscorea nipponica which contains the similar chemical components, significantly increased the steroidal saponins content of Paridis Rhizoma by fermentation. In this study, the inhibitory effects of fermentated Paridis Rhizoma extract (PRE) on liver cancer cells (Hepal-6), cervical cancer cells (Hela), and lung cancer cells (A549) were determined to be stronger than that of the unfermented extract. For discovering the fermentation mechanism of PRE with Fusarium sp. C39, 36 components with obviously quantitative variations were screened out by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS and 53 key genes involved in the metabolic pathways of steroidal saponins were identified by transcriptome. On the basis of comprehensively analyzing information from the metabonomics and transcriptome, it can be speculated that the increase of spirostanol saponins and nuatigenin-type saponins enhanced the inhibitory effect of fermented PRE on cancer cell proliferation. Under the action of glycosidase, glycosyltransferase, oxidoreductases, and genes involved in sterol synthesis, strain C39 achieved the synthesis of diosgenin and the alteration of configurations, sugar chain and substituent of steroidal saponins. The research suggested a microbial transformation approach to increase the resource utilization and activity of Paris polyphylla.