bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of cell morphology, physiology, biochemistry and CHS genes on four flower colors of Impatiens uliginosa
Authors: Zhao Lu-Qiu , Liu Yang , Huang Qi , Gao Shan , Huang Mei-Juan , Huang Hai-quan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Flower color is one of the important ornamental traits in the plants, which plays an active role in attracting pollinators to pollinate plants and reproduce their offspring. The flower color of Impatiens uliginosa is rich, there are four main flower colors in nature: deep red, red, pink, and white. However, it remains unclear whether on four different flower colors mechanism of I. uliginosa.

Methods

We investigate colorimetric measurement, observation of epidermal cells, cellular pH determination, extraction and determination of total anthocyanins and flavonoid, semi-quantitative determination of pigment components, and gene cloning and qRT-PCR of CHS genes to study four flower colors of I. uliginosa.

Results

The L* and b* values were the highest in white flower, while the a* values were the highest in pink flower. The same shape of epidermal cells was observed in different flower colors, which was all irregular flat polygons, and there were partial lignification. Their cellular pH values were weakly acidic, while the pH values of the deep red flower was the highest and the white flower was the lowest. The highest pigment content of the four flower colors was total anthocyanin content. And malvidin-3-galactosidechloride (C23H25ClO12), cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C21H21O11) and delphinidin (C15H11O7) were the main pigment components affecting the color of four different flower colors. The anthocyanin synthesis gene IuCHS was expressed in four flowers, and all three copies of it had the highest expression level in pink flower and the lowest expression level in white flower.

Discussion

These results revealed the influence of main internal factors on four different flower colors of I. uliginosa, and provided a basis for further understanding of the intracellular and molecular regulatory mechanisms of flower color variation, and laid a foundation for the improvement of flower color breeding of Impatiens.
Impact of ultraviolet-B radiation on early-season morpho-physiological traits of indica and japonica rice genotypes
Authors: Mathur Sonal , Bheemanahalli Raju , Jumaa Salah Hameed , Kakar Naqeebullah , Reddy Vangimalla R. , Gao Wei , Reddy Kambham Raja
Published: March 2024

Ultraviolet (UV)-B radiation is considered one of the major detrimental rays coming from the Sun. UV-B radiation has a harmful impact on plant growth and development. The effect of UV-B radiation was studied on 64 rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes during the vegetative season. An equal number of genotypes from the japonica (50%) and indica (50%) subspecies were phenotyped using the Soil-Plant-Atmosphere-Research (SPAR) units. The 10 kJ UV-B was imposed 12 days after planting (DAP) and continued for three weeks (21 d). Based on the combined ultraviolet-B radiation response index (CUVBRI) for each genotype, the 64 rice genotypes were classified into sensitive, moderately sensitive, moderately tolerant, and tolerant. Various shoot traits, such as plant height, tiller, and leaf numbers, were measured. We also studied critical root phenological traits like root volume, diameter, tips, and forks. Out of all the studied shoot traits, leaf area showed maximum reduction for both indica (54%) and japonica (48%). Among the root traits, root length decreased by negligible (1%) for indica as compared to japonica (5%), while root crossing and forks showed a maximum decline for japonica (37 and 42%), respectively. This study is timely, meaningful, and required because it will help breeders select a tolerant or sensitive rice line for better yield and production under abiotic stresses.
Influence of rhythmic-movement activity intervention on hot executive function of 5- to 6-year-old children
Authors: Wang Suxia , Yang Anning , Wei Xuefeng , Qian Ruohan , Chen Ying , Bi WenJing , Hu Bisheng , Wen Cheng
Published: March 2024

Hot Executive Function (hot EF) refers to cognitive process involved in high emotion or motivation, and the operation of this function is related to the activities of the ventromedial prefrontal lobe and orbitofrontal lobe. Meanwhile, rhythmic-movement activity is a musical activity in which one expresses and feels music with one’s own body movements which involves cognitive abilities such as adjusting and understanding emotions among children. To explore how rhythmic-movement activity with rewards influences the development of hot EF in children of 5–6 years old, the organization principles of rhythmic-movement activity with rewards intervention on hot EF were designed, and 62 children of 5–6 years old in a kindergarten in Yantai of China were selected as research participants (M = 5.80 years old, SD = 0.37 years old) for pre-test and post-test experimental design. The experimental group received rhythmic-movement activity with rewards three times a week for 6 weeks, while the control group did not. The gift delay task and the children’s gambling task were used to measure two sub-components of hot EF before and after the intervention, and the results show that rhythmic-movement activity with rewards has a significant effect on gratification delay and affective decision-making ability of children. Finally, the effects and enlightenment of rhythmic-movement activity with rewards on hot EF are discussed.
Workplace trauma and professional quality of Life in clinical and forensic psychiatry: the CRITIC study
Authors: Bloemendaal Anthony F. T. , Kamperman Astrid M. , Bonebakker Annette E. , Kool N. , Olff M. , Mulder C. L.
Published: March 2024

Background

Frontline staff in psychiatry need to perform at a very high professional level in order to ensure patient and community safety. At the same time they are exposed to high levels of stress and workplace trauma. This may have severe consequences for their professional quality of life. In addition, health care workers in general have higher incidence levels of childhood adversity than the general population. The CRITIC (CRITical Incidents and aggression in Caregivers) Study aims to improve increased understanding of the interaction between personal life history (childhood adversity and benevolence), individual capabilities, exposure to trauma and violence at work and Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL).

Method

The Critic Study is a cross-sectional survey of these aspects in frontline, treatment and administrative staff in clinical and forensic psychiatry. We aim to include 360 participants. Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires on childhood adversity and childhood benevolence (assessing personal life history), professional quality of life, current trauma and violence exposure, current mental health (depression, anxiety and stress), coping, social support, work engagement and resilience. In this study we will examine the moderating role of adverse and benevolent childhood experiences in the association between workplace trauma exposure and professional quality of life. Finally, a theoretical model on the relationships between trauma, stress and coping in the context of professional functioning will be tested using structural equation modelling.

Discussion

The CRITIC study examines which factors influence the complex relationship between childhood adversity and benevolence, and ProQOL in healthcare workers. It also aims to provide insight into the complex relationship between personal life history, individual characteristics, exposure to trauma and violence at work and ProQOL. The results can be used for designing interventions to increase resilience to trauma and to improve professional quality of life among health care professionals.

Trial registration

The CRITIC study has been approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of the Erasmus Medical Centre, under trial registration number NL73417.078.20
An interaction study of online learning satisfaction with parent-child relationships and trait coping styles
Authors: Wen Leji , Xu Weizhuo , Yan Xiaoyue , Lin Xin , Shao Chen , Zhang Lei
Published: March 2024

As the physical and mental development of the young is not only influenced by the parent-child relationship (PR) and the student's academic performance, but also moderated by trait coping styles (TCS), the changes between these three during the online learning period in an epidemic need to be reconsidered. This study aims to explore the factors affecting online learning satisfaction (OLS) among students and their interaction with parent-child relationship and trait coping style. A web-based questionnaire was employed, encompassing general information, the Trait Coping Style Questionnaire (TCSQ), and queries related to OLS. A total of 1,287 valid questionnaires were collected, with 593 from junior high school students, 197 from high school students, and 497 from university students. Our findings indicate that parent-child relationship (PR), positive coping style (PCS), and learning status (LS) showed a positive correlation with OLS (r=0.110, P<0.001; r=0.786, P<0.001). Conversely, negative coping style (NCS) presented a negative correlation with OLS (r=-0.186, P<0.01). Multiple regression analysis of OLS reveals that PR has a significant impact on OLS (P<0.001, β=0.291), as does LS (P<0.001, β=0.767). However, trait coping styles (TCS) appear to have no significant effect on OLS. Notably, PR plays a significant and positive mediating role between LS and OLS, with a mediation effect of 0.0132 (P<0.05), accounting for 1.682% of the total effect. These findings suggest that strengthening parent-child interactions and fostering adaptive coping mechanisms could play a crucial role in enhancing students' satisfaction with online education. Such improvements could potentially contribute to superior academic outcomes and overall student well-being.
Mini review: possible role of the multi-theory model of health behavior change in designing substance use prevention and treatment interventions
Authors: Sharma Manoj , Awan Asma , Kapukotuwa Sidath
Published: March 2024

Many behavior change theories have evolved over time. Originally, the first conceptions prioritized interventions based on information, such as raising awareness and transferring knowledge. Second-generation theories prioritize the development of skills and the promotion of awareness. The emergence of evidence-based techniques in the 1990s gave rise to third-generation theories such as the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Cognitive Theory. Presently, fourth-generation trends amalgamate various components from multiple theories to implement accurate treatments, employing technology and emphasizing targeted behavior change. This paper aims to do a concise evaluation of the multi-theory model (MTM) of health behavior change interventions in the context of planning substance use prevention and treatment. The current area of intervention programs aimed at preventing and treating substance use may benefit from MTM, an innovative fourth-generation behavior change model. Tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs have all been the subjects of experimental, cross-sectional, and qualitative research. We have presented that additional research is required to compare MTM with knowledge-based therapies or interventions grounded in other theories. A gold standard would be the randomized controlled trials and behavioral change interventions particularly useful for this purpose. In addition, research evaluating the interventions’ efficacy must be carefully planned and executed.
Awareness and willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention among men who have sex with men in Rwanda: findings from a web-based survey
Authors: Munyaneza Athanase , Patel Viraj V. , Gutierrez Nataly Rios , Shi Qiuhu , Muhoza Benjamin , Kubwimana Gallican , Ross Jonathan , Nsereko Etienne , Murenzi Gad , Nyirazinyoye Laetitia , Mutesa Leon , Anastos Kathryn , Adedimeji Adebola
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily pill aimed at reducing HIV transmission risk when taken as prescribed. It’s highly recommended for high-risk Men who have sex with Men (MSM). This study aimed to assess PrEP awareness and willingness to use it among Rwandan MSM, a critical aspect given PrEP’s proven effectiveness. The findings are expected to inform policy decisions and further advance the implementation of PrEP strategies.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study design that utilized a web-based survey conducted between April and June 2019 to assess awareness and willingness to use PrEP among sexually active MSM in Rwanda. A snowball sampling technique was used to recruit participants via social media such as WhatsApp and e-mail. Eligibility criteria included being sexually active, aged ≥18 years, self-identifying as MSM, residing in Rwanda, self-reported engagement in receptive or insertive anal sex in the last 12 months, and self-reported HIV-negative serostatus. We assessed two primary outcomes: PrEP awareness (having ever heard of PrEP) and willingness to use PrEP within one month of completing the survey. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify participant characteristics associated with PrEP awareness and willingness to use it.

Results

Out of 521 participants, the majority (73%) demonstrated awareness of PrEP. Factors linked to PrEP awareness included residing outside the capital, Kigali, being in the 18–29 age group, having higher education levels, perceiving a benefit from PrEP, and engaging in vaginal sex with a woman while using a condom in the last year. Additionally, 96% of participants expressed a strong willingness to use PrEP.

Conclusion

Rwandan MSM exhibits a high level of PrEP awareness, notably associated with factors like location, age, education, perceived benefits, and condom use. The study also revealed a strong willingness to use PrEP, indicating promising prospects for its adoption among this group. These findings highlight the need for targeted awareness campaigns, personalized interventions, and comprehensive sexual health education to promote PrEP adoption and strengthen HIV prevention efforts among Rwandan MSM.
Prevalence of dual sensory impairment in veterans: a rapid systematic review
Authors: Raza Zara , Hussain Syeda F. , Gomes Renata S. M.
Published: March 2024

Dual sensory impairment (DSI) is prevalent in the older population, but due to exposure to military-related risk factors, it is a particular problem for veterans, older and younger. This rapid review aimed to critically review and summarise the prevalence of DSI in military veteran populations, as well as any associative factors and outcomes that were assessed. This was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) statement. Several databases (Scopus, Web of Science, AMED, CINAHL Plus, Ultimate, and MEDLINE via EBSCOHost) were searched and five studies were selected for final review. All studies provided a prevalence rate for DSI in a veteran sample. One study also looked at functional independence as an outcome. Three of the studies considered blast injuries and traumatic brain injury (TBI) by using samples from TBI patient populations. Overall, results of this review suggest that age and presence of TBI and/or exposure to blast may increase prevalence of DSI in veterans. Prevalence rates ranged from 5.0–34.6% but there are caveats. There is a lack of universal or standardised definition for DSI, making it difficult to determine true prevalence. Future research should also include veterans who may not be receiving support from Veterans Affairs, consider factors such as TBI aetiology and severity based on clinical measures, and utilise a more standardised definition for DSI based on clinical measures.
A pilot study on the global practice of informed consent in paediatric dentistry
Authors: Potgieter Nicoline , Bridge Gemma , Elfrink Marlies , Folayan Morenike Oluwatoyin , Gao Sherry S. , Groisman Sonia , Jawdekar Ashwin , Kemoli Arthur M. , Lim David , Ly Phuong , Mani Shani A. , Masumo Ray , Monteiro Joana , Muasya Marjorie K. , Qureshi Ambrina , Tinanoff Norman
Published: March 2024

Background

Conducting oral treatment early in the disease course, is encouraged for better health outcomes. Obtaining informed consent is an essential part of medical practice, protecting the legal rights of patients and guiding the ethical practice of medicine. In practice, consent means different things in different contexts. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) and Silver Fluoride (SF) is becoming popular and cost effective methods to manage carious lesions, however, cause black discolouration of lesions treated. Obtaining informed consent and assent is crucial for any dental treatment—and has specific relevance with SDF/ SF treatments.

Methods

The aim of this paper is to describe informed consent regulations for dental care in a selection of countries, focusing on children and patients with special health care needs. An online survey was shared with a convenience sample of dental professionals from 13 countries. The information was explored and the processes of consent were compared.

Results

Findings suggest that there are variations in terms of informed consent for medical practice. In Tanzania, South Africa, India, Kenya, Malaysia and Brazil age is the determining factor for competence and the ability to give self-consent. In other countries, other factors are considered alongside age. For example, in Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States the principle of Gillick Competence is applied. Many countries' laws and regulations do not specify when a dentist may overrule general consent to act in the “best interest” of the patient.

Conclusion

It is recommended that it is clarified globally when a dentist may act in the “best interest” of the patient, and that guidance is produced to indicate what constitutes a dental emergency. The insights gathered provide insights on international practice of obtaining informed consent and to identify areas for change, to more efficient and ethical treatment for children and patients with special needs. A larger follow up study is recommended to include more or all countries.
The impact of drifting substorm-injected electrons on pulsating aurora initiation and intensification
Authors: Momberg John C. , Jaynes Allison N. , Chepuri Sanjay N. F. , Leali Alexis , Karl Juliana A. , Troyer Riley N.
Published: March 2024

Pulsating aurora, which consists of diffuse patches blinking on and off, is caused by pitch angle scattering of radiation belt electrons into the loss cone by lower-band chorus waves. Understanding the drivers of pulsating aurora is important as it is a long-lasting and widespread phenomenon, accounting for significant energy transfer from the solar wind into the ionosphere. Substorm injections, which transport electrons from the magnetotail into the inner magnetosphere, are one source of electrons in this region. Injections have been observed simultaneously with pulsating aurora during conjunctions between ground cameras and satellites. In addition, previous work has also shown that substorms can enhance chorus activity (the fundamental process that produces pulsating aurora), providing a mechanism linking substorms to pulsating aurora. To further study this connection, we used the Van Allen Probes and all-sky cameras to look at events where pulsating aurora and substorm injections were observed at different locations in Magnetic Local Time (MLT), rather than focusing only on conjunctions. To make this comparison, we calculated the drift rate of electrons originating from observed injections and projected their motion forward in time until their Magnetic Local Time was the same as the ground camera. When the electrons are located at the same MLT as the ground camera, the pulsating aurora they cause would most likely occur in the field of view of the camera. We compared the time drifting substorm-injected particles arrived at the MLT of the camera to when pulsating aurora was observed. We found several instances where the initiation or intensification of pulsating aurora was accompanied by the arrival of substorm-injected electrons. This observation gives further evidence that pulsating aurora can be enhanced by or occur after substorm injections.
The high energy X-ray probe (HEX-P): instrument and mission profile
Authors: Madsen Kristin K. , García Javier A. , Stern Daniel , Amini Rashied , Basso Stefano , Coutinho Diogo , Grefenstette Brian W. , Kenyon Steven , Moretti Alberto , Morrissey Patrick , Nandra Kirpal , Pareschi Giovanni , Predehl Peter , Rau Arne , Spiga Daniele , Wilms Jörn , Zhang William W.
Published: March 2024

The High Energy X-ray Probe (HEX-P) is a proposed NASA probe-class mission that combines the power of high angular resolution with a broad X-ray bandpass to provide the necessary leap in capabilities to address the important astrophysical questions of the next decade. HEX-P achieves breakthrough performance by combining technologies developed by experienced international partners. To meet the science goals, the payload consists of a suite of co-aligned X-ray telescopes designed to cover the 0.2–80 keV bandpass. The High Energy Telescope (HET) has an effective bandpass of 2–80 keV, and the Low Energy Telescope (LET) has an effective bandpass of 0.2–20 keV. HEX-P will be launched into L1 to enable high observing efficiency, and the combination of bandpass and high observing efficiency delivers a powerful platform for broad science to serve a wide community. The baseline mission is 5 years, with 30% of the observing time dedicated to the PI-led program and 70% to a General Observer (GO) program. The General Observer program will be executed along with the PI-led program.
How does the development of rural broadband in China affect agricultural total factor productivity? Evidence from agriculture-related loans
Authors: Li Ying
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The construction of digital villages is widely acknowledged as a way to achieve the “dual goals” of high quality of the agricultural and rural economy and common prosperity under the digital China strategy. Studies have explored the socio-economic benefits of different aspects of rural digitization, but few have focused on the productivity role of rural broadband development in the context of the urban-rural broadband divide. The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between rural broadband development and agricultural total factor productivity (TFP) and the intrinsic mechanism of action, and to provide empirical evidence on the productivity effect of promoting digital transformation in rural agriculture.

Methods

Using panel data from 31 provinces in China from 2011 to 2020, this paper investigates the impact and mechanism of rural broadband development on agricultural TFP from the perspective of agriculture-related loans by setting up a two-way fixed effects model, a mechanism effects model and a threshold effects model.

Results

The results find that rural broadband development has a significant role in enhancing agricultural TFP. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that the productivity-enhancing effect of rural broadband development is remarkable only in the central region and the region with higher rural disposable income. Mechanism analysis points out that rural broadband development can increase agricultural TFP by influencing the share of farm-related loans. Threshold analysis further reveals that the role of increasing the share of farm-related loans on agricultural TFP is marked only after rural broadband development reaches a certain level.

Discussion

These findings can provide practical guidance for other developing countries in accelerating the digital transformation of villages and optimizing factor allocation to achieve high-quality agricultural development.
Biliary atresia in preterm infants: a single center experience and review of literature
Authors: Beati Federico , Mosca Antonella , Pietrobattista Andrea , Liccardo Daniela , Ronci Sara , Monti Lidia , Francalanci Paola , Spada Marco , Maggiore Giuseppe , Bagolan Pietro , Fusaro Fabio
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The diagnosis of biliary atresia (BA) remains challenging, and there is still uncertainty regarding the optimal time to perform a Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE). Little is known about the difficulties in the diagnosis and outcomes of BA in preterm infants (PBA). This study, which represents the first Italian report of preterm infants with BA, aims to describe a single-center experience of BA in preterm newborns.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all infants consecutively diagnosed with BA who underwent a Kasai procedure at the Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital between January 1998 and December 2021. Prematurity was defined as a gestational age (GA) of <37 weeks. Demographic, laboratory, and histology data were recorded, and the main outcomes considered were clearance of jaundice (COJ), native liver survival, and mortality.

Results

A total of 21 PBA were compared with 117 term BA controls (TBA). The median GA of PBA was 35.1 (32–36.1) weeks, with a mean birth weight of 2,100 (1,897–2,800) g. Age at first presentation was significantly lower in PBA patients: 46 (22–68) vs. 61 (44–72) days; p = 0.02. The median age at KPE was similar between the two groups: 70 days (33 corrected) for PBA vs. 67 in TBA; p = 0.8. At the time of surgery, median serum bilirubin was lower in the PBA group (7.7 vs. 8.6 mg/dl, p = 0.04). Similarly, the median APRi at the time of KPE was lower but not significant in the PBA group: 1.09 vs. 1.16; p = 0.8. No differences were found in terms of COJ between the PBA and TBA groups: n = 9 (43%) vs. 34 (35%); p = 0.2. Overall native liver survival was similar between the two groups: 8.6 (4.8–12.2) for the PBA group vs. 7.6 (5.6–9.5) years for the TBA group with no significant differences; p = 0.45. Post-KPE native liver survival was similar between the two groups: 38% vs. 52% at 5 years for the TBA and PBA groups, respectively;   p = 0.54.

Conclusion

The PBA and TBA groups appear to have similar outcomes in terms of COJ, overall native liver survival, and 5-year liver survival. Considering the corrected GA, early KPE is related to lower cholestatic damage. Further multicenter studies are required.
Shifting paradigms: a pivotal study on laparoscopic resection for colovesical fistulas in diverticular disease
Authors: Rizzuto Antonia , Andreuccetti Jacopo , Bracale Umberto , Silvestri Vania , Pontecorvi Emanuele , Reggio Stefano , Sagnelli Carlo , Peltrini Roberto , Amaddeo Angela , Bozzarello Cristina , Pignata Giusto , Cuccurullo Diego , Corcione Francesco
Published: March 2024

Background

Colovesical fistulas (CVFs) pose a challenge in diverticulitis, affecting 4% to 20% of sigmoid colon cases. Complicated diverticular disease contributes significantly, accounting for 60%−70% of all CVFs. Existing studies on laparoscopic CVF management lack clarity on its effectiveness in diverticular cases compared to open surgery. This study redefines paradigms by assessing the potentiality, adequacy, and utility of laparoscopy in treating CVFs due to complicated diverticular disease, marking a paradigm shift in surgical approaches.

Methods

Conducting a retrospective analysis at Ospedale Monaldi A.O.R.N dei Colli and University Federico II, Naples, Italy, patients undergoing surgery for CVF secondary to diverticular disease between 2010 and 2020 were examined. Comprehensive data, including demographics, clinical parameters, preoperative diagnoses, operative and postoperative details, and histopathological examination, were meticulously recorded. Patients were classified into open surgery (Group A) and laparoscopy (Group B). Statistical analysis used IBM SPSS Statistic 19.0.

Results

From January 2010 to December 2020, 76 patients underwent surgery for colovesical fistula secondary to diverticular disease. Laparoscopic surgery (Group B, n = 40) and open surgery (Group A, n = 36) showed no statistically significant differences in operative time, bladder suture, or associated procedures. Laparoscopy demonstrated advantages, including lower intraoperative blood loss, reduced postoperative primary ileus, and a significantly shorter length of stay. Postoperative morbidity differed significantly between groups. Mortality occurred in Group A but was unrelated to surgical complications. No reoperations were observed. Two-year follow-up revealed no fistula recurrence.

Conclusion

This pivotal study marks a paradigm shift by emphasizing laparoscopic resection and primary anastomosis as a safe and feasible option for managing CVF secondary to diverticular disease. Comparable conversion, morbidity, and mortality rates to the open approach underscore the transformative potential of these findings. The study's emphasis on patient selection and surgeon experience challenges existing paradigms, offering a progressive shift toward minimally invasive solutions.
Cecropin A: investigation of a host defense peptide with multifaceted immunomodulatory activity in a chicken hepatic cell culture
Authors: Márton Rege Anna , Sebők Csilla , Mackei Máté , Tráj Patrik , Vörösházi Júlia , Kemény Ágnes , Neogrády Zsuzsanna , Mátis Gábor
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Host defense peptides (HDPs) are increasingly referred to as promising candidates for the reduction of the use of conventional antibiotics, thereby combating antibiotic resistance. As HDPs have been described to exert various immunomodulatory effects, cecropin A (CecA) appears to be a potent agent to influence the host inflammatory response.

Methods

In the present study, a chicken primary hepatocyte–non-parenchymal cell co-culture was used to investigate the putative immunomodulatory effects of CecA alone and in inflammatory conditions evoked by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C). To examine the viability of the cells, the extracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was determined by colorimetric assay. Inflammatory markers interleukin (IL)-8 and transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) were investigated using the ELISA method, whereas concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) were assayed by Luminex xMAP technology. Extracellular H2O2 and malondialdehyde levels were measured by fluorometric and colorimetric methods, respectively.

Results

Results of the lower concentrations suggested the safe application of CecA; however, it might contribute to hepatic cell membrane damage at its higher concentrations. We also found that the peptide alleviated the inflammatory response, reflected by the decreased production of the pro-inflammatory IL-6, IL-8, and IFN-γ. In addition, CecA diminished the levels of anti-inflammatory IL-10 and TGF-ß1. The oxidative markers measured remained unchanged in most cases of CecA exposure.

Discussion

CecA displayed a multifaceted immunomodulatory but not purely anti-inflammatory activity on the hepatic cells, and might be suggested to maintain the hepatic inflammatory homeostasis in Poly I:C-triggered immune response. To conclude, our study suggests that CecA might be a promising molecule for the development of new immunomodulatory antibiotic-substitutive agents in poultry medicine; however, there is still a lot to clarify regarding its cellular effects.
Does Producing Scientific Articles Lead to Paralympic Podiums?
Authors: Pilon Francine , Prince François
Published: March 2024

The Olympic/Paralympic Games are world events that promote countries and their participants, and more particularly, those winning medals. The potential link between a country’s scientific productivity and its podium wins remains unknown for the Paralympic Games. This study aimed to (1) quantify the link between the production of Paralympic scientific articles and the medals won by countries during Summer/Winter Paralympic Games between 2012 and 2022, and (2) select the five most important articles published for all Paralympic sports. A bibliographic search of the Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases was conducted. From the 1351 articles identified, 525 fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The results showed a greater (7x) production of scientific articles relating to the Summer Paralympics compared to those relating to the Winter Paralympics. For the Summer Paralympics, there was a strong correlation (r = 0.79) between the number of medals and the number of scientific articles produced by a given country, while a low correlation (r = 0.12) was observed for the Winter Paralympics. Biomechanics-related articles represent almost 50% of the overall Paralympic publications. In conclusion, there is a strong link between scientific productivity and the number of medals won for the 2012–2022 Paralympic Games. Parasport Federations are strongly encouraged to promote the publication of more Paralympic research articles.
ITGAV Promotes the Progression of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Lingyi , Barrett Jeremy G , Peng Jiayi , Li Suk , Messadi Diana , Hu Shen
Published: March 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) refers to the malignancy of squamous cells in the head and neck region. Ranked as the seventh most common cancer worldwide, HNSCC has a very low survival rate, highlighting the importance of finding therapeutic targets for the disease. Integrins are cell surface receptors that play a crucial role in mediating cellular interactions with the extracellular matrix (ECM). Within this protein family, Integrin αV (ITGAV) has received attention for its important functional role in cancer progression. In this study, we first demonstrated the upregulation of ITGAV expression in HNSCC, with higher ITGAV expression levels correlating with significantly lower overall survival, based on TCGA (the Cancer Genome Atlas) and GEO datasets. Subsequent in vitro analyses revealed an overexpression of ITGAV in highly invasive HNSCC cell lines UM1 and UMSCC-5 in comparison to low invasive HNSCC cell lines UM2 and UMSCC-6. In addition, knockdown of ITGAV significantly inhibited the migration, invasion, viability, and colony formation of HNSCC cells. In addition, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays indicated that SOX11 bound to the promoter of ITGAV gene, and SOX11 knockdown resulted in decreased ITGAV expression in HNSCC cells. In conclusion, our studies suggest that ITGAV promotes the progression of HNSCC cells and may be regulated by SOX11 in HNSCC cells.
In Situ Conservation of Dry Meadows
Authors: Bavcon Jože , Malovrh Katja , Tomšič Maja , Ravnjak Blanka
Published: March 2024

Grassland ecosystems are increasingly vulnerable as they are threatened by both intensive agriculture and abandonment of land use, which leads to overgrowth with scrub vegetation and forest. Given that meadows are habitat types of very high biodiversity, their loss significantly reduces local biodiversity. That is why the University Botanic Gardens Ljubljana has been renting a 2 ha dry meadow at the edge of Ljubljana capital city since 2001, for the purpose of in situ conservation in the urban area. We have been observing the meadow since 1997. In 2023, in addition to the complete inventory of species, we also carried out an inventory and analysis of the community in the meadow using the Braun–Blanquet method in 25 relevés. We recorded 163 plant species in the meadow during the entire growing season, and a total of 82 were recorded in the relevés. Eighteen of the species recorded are on the red list of protected plant species in Slovenia. In the relevés, 15 species types were constant (occurring in 60%) and as many as 21 were unique. The species Peucedanum oreoselinum (L.) Moench was recorded in all relevés (25), followed by the species Bromopsis erecta (Huds.) Fourr. (24), Galium verum L. (24), Briza media L. (23), Brachypodium pinnatum (L.) PB. (22) and Salvia pratensis L. (21).
Metal Complexes of Redox Non-Innocent Ligand N,N′-Bis(3,5-di-tertbutyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-1,2-phenylenediamine
Authors: Lehtonen Ari
Published: March 2024

Redox non-innocent ligands react with metal precursors to form complexes where the oxidation states of the ligand and thus the metal atom cannot be easily defined. A well-known example of such ligands is bis(o-aminophenol) N,N′-bis(3,5-di-tertbutyl-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-1,2-phenylenediamine, previously developed by the Wieghardt group, which has a potentially tetradentate coordination mode and four distinct protonation states, whereas its electrochemical behavior allows for five distinct oxidation states. This rich redox chemistry, as well as the ability to coordinate to various transition metals, has been utilized in the syntheses of metal complexes with M2L, ML and ML2 stoichiometries, sometimes supported with other ligands. Different oxidation states of the ligand can adopt different coordination modes. For example, in the fully oxidized form, two N donors are sp2-hybridized, which makes the ligand planar, whereas in the fully reduced form, the sp3-hybridized N donors allow the formation of more flexible chelate structures. In general, the metal can be reduced during complexation, but redox processes of the isolated complexes typically occur on the ligand. Combination of this non-innocent ligand with redox-active transition metals may lead to complexes with interesting magnetic, electrochemical, photonic and catalytic properties.
Comprehensive Transcriptome Profiling of Antioxidant Activities by Glutathione in Human HepG2 Cells
Authors: Uchida Yoshiaki , Ferdousi Farhana , Takahashi Shinya , Isoda Hiroko
Published: March 2024

Glutathione (GSH) has long been recognised for its antioxidant and detoxifying effects on the liver. The hepatoprotective effect of GSH involves the activation of antioxidative systems such as NRF2; however, details of the mechanisms remain limited. A comparative analysis of the biological events regulated by GSH under physiological and oxidative stress conditions has also not been reported. In this study, DNA microarray analysis was performed with four experiment arms including Control, GSH, hydrogen peroxide (HP), and GSH + HP treatment groups. The GSH-treated group exhibited a significant upregulation of genes clustered in cell proliferation, growth, and differentiation, particularly those related to MAPK, when compared with the Control group. Additionally, liver functions such as alcohol and cholesterol metabolic processes were significantly upregulated. On the other hand, in the HP-induced oxidative stress condition, GSH (GSH + HP group) demonstrated a significant activation of cell proliferation, cell cycle, and various signalling pathways (including TGFβ, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and HIF-1) in comparison to the HP group. Furthermore, several disease-related pathways, such as chemical carcinogenesis–reactive oxygen species and fibrosis, were significantly downregulated in the GSH + HP group compared to the HP group. Collectively, our study provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of GSH under both physiological and oxidative stress conditions. Our study provides essential insights to direct the utilisation of GSH as a supplement in the management of conditions associated with oxidative stress.
Investigating the Quality and Purity Profiles of Olive Oils from Diverse Regions in Selçuk, İzmir
Authors: Akcan Tolga
Published: March 2024

The Selçuk district of Izmir is one of the most essential regions in terms of olive oil production. In this study, 60 olive oil samples were obtained from five different locations (ES: Eski Şirince Yolu, KK: Kınalı Köprü, AU: Abu Hayat Üst, AA: Abu Hayat Alt, and DB: Değirmen Boğazı) in the Selçuk region of Izmir during two (2019–2020 and 2020–2021) consecutive cropping seasons. Quality indices (free acidity, peroxide value, p-Anisidine value, TOTOX, and spectral absorption at 232 and 270 nm) and the fatty acid, phenolic, and sterol profiles of the samples were determined to analyze the changes in the composition of Selcuk olive oils according to their growing areas. When the quality criteria were analyzed, it was observed that KK had the lowest FFA (0.11% oleic acid, PV (6.66 meq O2/kg), p-ANV (11.95 mmol/kg), TOTOX (25.28), and K232 (1.99) values and K270 had the highest value. During the assessment of phenolic profiles, the ES group exhibited the highest concentration of the phenolic compound p-HPEA-EDA (oleocanthal), with a content of 93.58 mg/kg, equivalent to tyrosol. Upon analyzing the fatty acid and sterol composition, it was noted that AU displayed the highest concentration of oleic acid (71.98%) and β-sitosterol (87.65%). PCA analysis illustrated the distinct separation of the samples, revealing significant variations in both sterol and fatty acid methyl ester distributions among oils from different regions. Consequently, it was determined that VOOs originating from the Selçuk region exhibit distinct characteristics based on their geographical locations. Hence, this study holds great promise for the region to realize geographically labeled VOOs.
Recent Progress in Detecting Enantiomers in Food
Authors: Hao Changlong
Published: March 2024

The analysis of enantiomers in food has significant implications for food safety and human health. Conventional analytical methods employed for enantiomer analysis, such as gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography, are characterized by their labor-intensive nature and lengthy analysis times. This review focuses on the development of rapid and reliable biosensors for the analysis of enantiomers in food. Electrochemical and optical biosensors are highlighted, along with their fabrication methods and materials. The determination of enantiomers in food can authenticate products and ensure their safety. Amino acids and chiral pesticides are specifically discussed as important chiral substances found in food. The use of sensors replaces expensive reagents, offers real-time analysis capabilities, and provides a low-cost screening method for enantiomers. This review contributes to the advancement of sensor-based methods in the field of food analysis and promotes food authenticity and safety.
Toxicity Study on Crude Alkaloid Extracts of Houttuyniae herba Based on Zebrafish and Mice
Authors: Liu Jing , Wu Yingxue , Xu Yanni , Han Ying , Kang Shuai , Dai Zhong , Jin Hongyu , Wei Feng , Ma Shuangcheng
Published: March 2024

Houttuyniae herba has a long history of medicinal and edible homology in China. It has the functions of clearing heat and detoxifying, reducing swelling and purulent discharge, diuresis, and relieving gonorrhea. It is mainly distributed in the central, southeastern, and southwestern provinces of China. Houttuyniae herba has been designated by the National Ministry of Health of China as a dual-use plant for both food and medicine. Comprising volatile oils, flavonoids, and alkaloids as its primary constituents, Houttuyniae herba harbors aristolactams, a prominent subclass of alkaloids. Notably, the structural affinity of aristolactams to aristolochic acids is discernible, the latter known for its explicit toxicological effects. Additionally, the safety study on Houttuyniae herba mainly focused on the ethanol, methanol, or aqueous extract. In this study, both zebrafish and mice were used to evaluate the acute toxicity of the total alkaloids extracts from Houttuyniae herba (HHTAE). The zebrafish experiment showed that a high concentration (0.1 mg/mL) of HHTAE had a lethal effect on zebrafish embryos. Furthermore, the mice experiment results showed that, even at a higher dose of 2000 mg/kg, HHTAE was not toxic. In conclusion, HHTAE was of low safety risk.
Thermodynamic Study of N-Methylformamide and N,N-Dimethyl-Formamide
Authors: Růžička Květoslav , Štejfa Vojtěch , Červinka Ctirad , Fulem Michal , Šturala Jiří
Published: March 2024

An extensive thermodynamic study of N-methylformamide (CAS RN: 123-39-7) and N,N-dimethylformamide (CAS RN: 68-12-2), is presented in this work. The liquid heat capacities of N-methylformamide were measured by Tian–Calvet calorimetry in the temperature interval (250–300) K. The vapor pressures for N-methylformamide and N,N-dimethylformamide were measured using static method in the temperature range 238 K to 308 K. The ideal-gas thermodynamic properties were calculated using a combination of the density functional theory (DFT) and statistical thermodynamics. A consistent thermodynamic description was developed using the method of simultaneous correlation, where the experimental and selected literature data for vapor pressures, vaporization enthalpies, and liquid phase heat capacities and the calculated ideal-gas heat capacities were treated together to ensure overall thermodynamic consistency of the results. The resulting vapor pressure equation is valid from the triple point to the normal boiling point temperature.
Uniqueness of Finite Exceptional Orthogonal Polynomial Sequences Composed of Wronskian Transforms of Romanovski-Routh Polynomials
Authors: Natanson Gregory
Published: March 2024

This paper exploits two remarkable features of the translationally form-invariant (TFI) canonical Sturm–Liouville equation (CSLE) transfigured by Liouville transformation into the Schrödinger equation with the shape-invariant Gendenshtein (Scarf II) potential. First, the Darboux–Crum net of rationally extended Gendenshtein potentials can be specified by a single series of Maya diagrams. Second, the exponent differences for the poles of the CSLE in the finite plane are energy-independent. The cornerstone of the presented analysis is the reformulation of the conventional supersymmetric (SUSY) quantum mechanics of exactly solvable rational potentials in terms of ‘generalized Darboux transformations’ of canonical Sturm–Liouville equations introduced by Rudyak and Zakhariev at the end of the last century. It has been proven by the author that the first feature assures that all the eigenfunctions of the TFI CSLE are expressible in terms of Wronskians of seed solutions of the same type, while the second feature makes it possible to represent each of the mentioned Wronskians as a weighted Wronskian of Routh polynomials. It is shown that the numerators of the polynomial fractions in question form the exceptional orthogonal polynomial (EOP) sequences composed of Wronskian transforms of the given finite set of Romanovski–Routh polynomials excluding their juxtaposed pairs, which have already been used as seed polynomials.
SISTEM PENDUKUNG KEPUTUSAN PEMILIHAN LAHAN YANG LAYAK UNTUK PENANAMAN NILAM MENGGUNAKAN METODE ELECTRE
Authors: Batubara Juliana
Published: March 2024

Tanaman nilam merupakan salah satu komoditas tanaman yang memiliki banyak manfaat dan memiliki daya jual yang tinggi. Tanaman nilam sulit di budidayakan karena sulitnya pemilihan lahan yang layak untuk tanaman nilam tersebut dan belum ada peneliti yang melakukan penelitian tentang tanaman tersebut. Oleh sebab itu, dibutuhkan sistem pendukung keputusan untuk dapat membantu dalam pemilihan lahan yang layak untuk penanaman nilam dengan menggunakan tujuh kriteria yaitu pH tanah, jenis tanah, kelembapan udara, ketinggian tempat, intensitas cahaya, suhu udara, dan curah hujan tahunan. Sistem Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk merancang sebuah sistem dalam menentukan pemilihan lahan yang layak untuk tanaman nilam menggunakan metode electre merupakan salah satu metode dalam sistem pendukung keputusan. Sistem pendukung keputusan berfungsi untuk membantu pengambilan keputusan dalam situasi yang semi terstruktur dan situasi yang tidak terstruktur. Dimana hasil dari implementasi sistem yang sudah dibuat yang paling sesuai untuk tanaman nilam yaitu Desa Sempung Polling