bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of PEG Chain Length of Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles on the Cytocompatibility and Immune Competence of Primary Murine Macrophages and Dendritic Cells
Authors: Storjohann Ronja , Gericke Birthe , Reifenrath Janin , Herrmann Timo , Behrens Peter , Oltmanns Hilke , Meißner Jessica
Published: January 2023

A major drawback of nanoparticles (NPs) for biomedical applications is their preferential phagocytosis in immune cells, which can be avoided by surface modifications like PEGylation. Nevertheless, examinations of different polyethylene glycol (PEG) chain lengths on the competence of immune cells as well as possible immunotoxic effects are still sparse. Therefore, primary murine macrophages and dendritic cells were generated and incubated with magnetic nanoporous silica nanoparticles (MNPSNPs) modified with different mPEG chains (2 kDa, 5 kDa, and 10 kDa). Cytotoxicity, cytokine release, and the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined. Immune competence of both cell types was examined and uptake of MNPSNPs into macrophages was visualized. Concentrations up to 150 µg/mL MNPSNPs showed no effects on the metabolic activity or immune competence of both cell types. However, ROS significantly increased in macrophages incubated with larger PEG chains, while the concentration of cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) did not indicate a proinflammatory process. Investigations on the uptake of MNPSNPs revealed no differences in the onset of internalization and the intensity of intracellular fluorescence. The study gives no indication for an immunotoxic effect of PEGylated MNPSNPs. Nevertheless, there is still a need for optimization regarding their internalization to ensure an efficient drug delivery.
A MYB Transcription Factor Atlas Provides Insights into the Evolution of Environmental Adaptations in Plants
Authors: Zhang Chaofan , Jiao Chen , Sun Xuepeng , Li Xiaolong
Published: January 2023

The MYB transcription factor superfamily includes key regulators of plant development and responses to environmental changes. The diversity of lifestyles and morphological characteristics exhibited by plants are potentially associated with the genomic dynamics of the MYB superfamily. With the release of the plant genomes, a comprehensive phylogenomic analysis of the MYB superfamily across Viridiplantae is allowed. The present study performed phylogenetic, phylogenomic, syntenic, horizontal gene transfer, and neo/sub-functionalization analysis of the MYB superfamily to explore the evolutionary contributions of MYB members to species diversification, trait formation, and environmental adaptation in 437 different plant species. We identified major changes in copy number variation and genomic context within subclades across lineages. Multiple MYB subclades showed highly conserved copy number patterns and synteny across flowering plants, whereas others were more dynamic and showed lineage-specific patterns. As examples of lineage-specific morphological divergence, we hypothesize that the gain of a MYB orthogroup associated with flower development and environmental responses and an orthogroup associated with auxin and wax biosynthesis in angiosperms were correlated with the emergence of flowering plants, unbiased neo-/sub-functionalization of gene duplicates contributed to environmental adaptation, and species-specific neo-/sub-functionalization contributed to phenotype divergence between species. Transposable element insertion in promoter regions may have facilitated the sub-/neo-functionalization of MYB genes and likely played a tissue-specific role contributing to sub-/neo-functionalization in plant root tissues. This study provides new insights into the evolutionary divergence of the MYB superfamily across major flowering and non-flowering lineages and emphasizes the need for lineage-/tissue-specific characterization to further understand trait variability and environmental adaptation.
Zein Nanoparticles Containing Arginine-Based Surfactants: Physicochemical Characterization and Effect on the Biological Properties
Authors: Pérez Lourdes , Sentís Adrià , Hafidi Zakaria , Pinazo Aurora , García Maria Teresa , Martín-Pastor Manuel , de Sousa Francisco Fábio Oliveira
Published: January 2023

Cationic surfactants carry antimicrobial activity, based on their interaction and disruption of cell membranes. Nonetheless, their intrinsic toxicity limits their applicability. To overcome this issue, a feasible strategy consists of using solid nanoparticles to improve their delivery. The zein nanoparticles were loaded with four cationic arginine-based surfactants: one single chain Nα-lauroyl-arginine (LAM) and three Gemini surfactants Nα Nω-Bis (Nα-lauroyl-arginine) α, ω—diamide) (C3(LA)2, C6(LA)2 and C9(LA)2). Blank and loaded zein nanoparticles were characterized in terms of size, polydispersity and zeta potential. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity against bacteria and yeasts and the hemolytic activity were investigated and compared to the surfactants in a solution. Nanoparticles were found to be monodisperse, presenting a size of between 180–341 nm, a pdI of <0.2 and a positive zeta potential of between +13 and +53 mV, remaining stable over 365 days. The nanoencapsulation maintained the antimicrobial activity as unaltered, while the extensive hemolytic activity found for the surfactants in a solution was reduced drastically. Nuclear Magnetic Ressonance (NMR), molecular docking and monolayer findings indicated that zein entraps the surfactants, interfering in the surfactant–membrane interactions. Accordingly, the nanoepcasulation of arginine surfactants improved their selectivity, while the cationic charges were free to attack and destroy bacteria and fungi; the aliphatic chains were not available to disrupt the cellular membranes.
Chrono-Nutrition: Circadian Rhythm and Personalized Nutrition
Authors: Franzago Marica , Alessandrelli Elisa , Notarangelo Stefania , Stuppia Liborio , Vitacolonna Ester
Published: January 2023

The human circadian system has a period of approximately 24 h and studies on the consequences of “chornodisruption” have greatly expanded. Lifestyle and environmental factors of modern societies (i.e., artificial lighting, jetlag, shift work, and around-the-clock access to energy-dense food) can induce disruptions of the circadian system and thereby adversely affect individual health. Growing evidence demonstrates a complex reciprocal relationship between metabolism and the circadian system, in which perturbations in one system affect the other one. From a nutritional genomics perspective, genetic variants in clock genes can both influence metabolic health and modify the individual response to diet. Moreover, an interplay between the circadian rhythm, gut microbiome, and epigenome has been demonstrated, with the diet in turn able to modulate this complex link suggesting a remarkable plasticity of the underlying mechanisms. In this view, the study of the impact of the timing of eating by matching elements from nutritional research with chrono-biology, that is, chrono-nutrition, could have significant implications for personalized nutrition in terms of reducing the prevalence and burden of chronic diseases. This review provides an overview of the current evidence on the interactions between the circadian system and nutrition, highlighting how this link could in turn influence the epigenome and microbiome. In addition, possible nutritional strategies to manage circadian-aligned feeding are suggested.
Low-Dose Sodium Salicylate Promotes Ovulation by Regulating Steroids via CYP17A1
Authors: Li Tao , Ren Xuehua , Li Tianjiao , Yu Lian , Teng Mingming , Zheng Yi , Lei Anmin
Published: January 2023

To meet the current demand of assisted reproduction and animal breeding via superovulation and reduce the impact of hormone drugs, it is necessary to develop new superovulation drugs. This study examined the role of inflammation and steroids in ovulation. Sodium salicylate can regulate inflammation and steroids. However, the effect of sodium salicylate on ovulation has not been studied. In this study, mice were intraperitoneally injected with different concentrations of sodium salicylate for four consecutive days. The effects of sodium salicylate on oocyte quality and on the number of ovulations were examined, and these effects were compared with those of pregnant horse serum gonadotropin (PMSG)/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) treatment. We found that low-dose sodium salicylate increased the levels of ovulation hormones and inflammation by promoting the expression of CYP17A1. Sodium salicylate had the same effect as the commonly used superovulation drug PMSG/FSH and reduced the histone methylation level. Sodium salicylate can promote ovulation in mice and Awang sheep. It can greatly decrease the use of hormone drugs, reduce breeding costs and physical impacts, and can thus be used for livestock breeding.
Contribution of a WRKY Transcription Factor, ShWRKY81, to Powdery Mildew Resistance in Wild Tomato
Authors: Wang Han , Gong Wenfeng , Wang Yang , Ma Qing
Published: January 2023

Tomato powdery mildew, caused by Oidium neolycopersici, is a destructive fungal disease that damages almost all of the aerial parts of tomato, causing devastating losses in tomato production worldwide. WRKY transcription factors are key regulators of plant immunity, but the roles of ShWRKYs in wild tomato Solanum habrochaites LA1777 against O. neolycopersici still remain to be uncovered. Here, we show that ShWRKY81 is an important WRKY transcription factor from wild tomato Solanum habrochaites LA1777, contributing to plant resistance against O. neolycopersici. ShWRKY81 was isolated and identified to positively modulate tomato resistance against On-Lz. The transient overexpression of the ShWRKY81-GFP (green fluorescent protein) fusion protein in Nicotiana benthamiana cells revealed that ShWRKY81 was localized in the nucleus. ShWRKY81 responded differentially to abiotic and biotic stimuli, with ShWRKY81 mRNA accumulation in LA1777 seedlings upon On-Lz infection. The virus-induced gene silencing of ShWRKY81 led to host susceptibility to On-Lz in LA1777, and a loss of H2O2 formation and hypersensitive response (HR) induction. Furthermore, the transcripts of ShWRKY81 were induced by salicylic acid (SA), and ShWRKY81-silenced LA1777 seedlings displayed decreased levels of the defense hormone SA and SA-dependent PRs gene expression upon On-Lz infection. Together, these results demonstrate that ShWRKY81 acts as a positive player in tomato powdery mildew resistance.
Protective Effect of Oxygen and Isoflurane in Rodent Model of Intestinal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Clarysse Mathias , Accarie Alison , Farré Ricard , Canovai Emilio , Monbaliu Diethard , Gunst Jan , De Hertogh Gert , Vanuytsel Tim , Pirenne Jacques , Ceulemans Laurens J.
Published: January 2023

Animal research in intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is mainly performed in rodent models. Previously, intraperitoneal (I.P.) injections with ketamine–xylazine mixtures were used. Nowadays, volatile anesthetics (isoflurane) are more common. However, the impact of the anesthetic method on intestinal IRI has not been investigated. We aim to analyze the different anesthetic methods and their influence on the extent of intestinal IRI in a rat model. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were used to investigate the effect of I.P. anesthesia on 60 min of intestinal ischemia and 60 min of reperfusion in comparison to hyperoxygenation (100% O2) and volatile isoflurane anesthesia. In comparison to I.P. anesthesia with room air (21% O2), supplying 100% O2 improved 7-day survival by cardiovascular stabilization, reducing lactic acidosis and preventing vascular leakage. However, this had no effect on the intestinal epithelial damage, permeability, and inflammatory response observed after intestinal IRI. In contrast to I.P. + 100% O2, isoflurane anesthesia reduced intestinal IRI by preventing ongoing low-flow reperfusion hypotension, limiting intestinal epithelial damage and permeability, and by having anti-inflammatory effects. When translating the aforementioned results of this study to clinical situations, such as intestinal ischemia or transplantation, the potential protective effects of hyperoxygenation and volatile anesthetics require further research.
Beta-Amyloid Peptide in Tears: An Early Diagnostic Marker of Alzheimer’s Disease Correlated with Choroidal Thickness
Authors: Gharbiya Magda , Visioli Giacomo , Trebbastoni Alessandro , Albanese Giuseppe Maria , Colardo Mayra , D’Antonio Fabrizia , Segatto Marco , Lambiase Alessandro
Published: January 2023

We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic role of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) biomarkers in tears as well as their association with retinal and choroidal microstructures. In a cross-sectional study, 35 subjects (age 71.7 ± 6.9 years) were included: 11 with prodromal AD (MCI), 10 with mild-to-moderate AD, and 14 healthy controls. The diagnosis of AD and MCI was confirmed according to a complete neuropsychological evaluation and PET or MRI imaging. After tear sample collection, β-amyloid peptide Aβ1-42 concentration was analyzed using ELISA, whereas C-terminal fragments of the amyloid precursor protein (APP-CTF) and phosphorylated tau (p-tau) were assessed by Western blot. Retinal layers and choroidal thickness (CT) were acquired by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Aβ1-42 levels in tears were able to detect both MCI and AD patients with a specificity of 93% and a sensitivity of 81% (AUC = 0.91). Tear levels of Aβ1-42 were lower, both in the MCI (p < 0.01) and in the AD group (p < 0.001) when compared to healthy controls. Further, Aβ1-42 was correlated with psychometric scores (p < 0.001) and CT (p < 0.01). CT was thinner in the affected patients (p = 0.035). No differences were observed for APP-CTF and p-tau relative abundance in tears. Testing Aβ1-42 levels in tears seems to be a minimally invasive, cost-saving method for early detection and diagnosis of AD.
Rituximab, Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Laser Photocoagulation for Treatment of Macrophage Activation Syndrome and Retinal Vasculitis in Lupus: A Case Report
Authors: Ikić Matijašević Marina , Kilić Paula , Ikić Lucija , Galić Iva , Brzović Šarić Vlatka , Galić Edvard
Published: January 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) most commonly manifests as mild to moderate disease with severe manifestations such as diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, central nervous system vasculitis, macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) or retinal vasculitis (RV) with visual disturbances occurring in a significantly smaller proportion of patients, most of whom have a poor outcome. Macrophage activation syndrome and RV are insufficiently early and rarely recognized presentations of lupus—consequently there are still no treatment recommendations. Here we present the course of diagnosis and treatment of a patient with an SLE flare that resulted in both life-threatening disease (MAS) and vision-threatening disease (RV). The patient was successfully treated with systemic immunosuppressives, a high dose of glucocorticoids and rituximab (RTX), in parallel with intraocular therapy, intravitreal bevacizumab (BEV) and laser photocoagulation.
Metabolomic Analyses to Identify Candidate Biomarkers of Cystinosis
Authors: Nemutlu Emirhan , Ozaltin Fatih , Yabanoglu-Ciftci Samiye , Gulhan Bora , Eylem Cemil Can , Baysal İpek , Gök-Topak Elif Damla , Ulubayram Kezban , Sezerman Osman Ugur , Ucar Gulberk , Kır Sedef , Topaloglu Rezan
Published: January 2023

Cystinosis is a rare, devastating hereditary disease secondary to recessive CTNS gene mutations. The most commonly used diagnostic method is confirmation of an elevated leukocyte cystine level; however, this method is expensive and difficult to perform. This study aimed to identify candidate biomarkers for the diagnosis and follow-up of cystinosis based on multiomics studies. The study included three groups: newly-diagnosed cystinosis patients (patient group, n = 14); cystinosis patients under treatment (treatment group, n = 19); and healthy controls (control group, n = 30). Plasma metabolomics analysis identified 10 metabolites as candidate biomarkers that differed between the patient and control groups [L-serine, taurine, lyxose, 4-trimethylammoniobutanoic acid, orotic acid, glutathione, PE(O-18:1(9Z)/0:0), 2-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, acetyl-N-formil-5-metoxikinuramine, 3-indoxyl sulphate]. As compared to the healthy control group, in the treatment group, hypotaurine, phosphatidylethanolamine, N-acetyl-d-mannosamine, 3-indolacetic acid, p-cresol, phenylethylamine, 5-aminovaleric acid, glycine, creatinine, and saccharic acid levels were significantly higher, and the metabolites quinic acid, capric acid, lenticin, xanthotoxin, glucose-6-phosphate, taurine, uric acid, glyceric acid, alpha-D-glucosamine phosphate, and serine levels were significantly lower. Urinary metabolomic analysis clearly differentiated the patient group from the control group by means of higher allo-inositol, talose, glucose, 2-hydroxybutiric acid, cystine, pyruvic acid, valine, and phenylalanine levels, and lower metabolite (N-acetyl-L-glutamic acid, 3-aminopropionitrile, ribitol, hydroquinone, glucuronic acid, 3-phosphoglycerate, xanthine, creatinine, and 5-aminovaleric acid) levels in the patient group. Urine metabolites were also found to be significantly different in the treatment group than in the control group. Thus, this study identified candidate biomarkers that could be used for the diagnosis and follow-up of cystinosis.
Recent Advances and Future Potential of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Insects
Authors: Zafar Junaid , Huang Junlin , Xu Xiaoxia , Jin Fengliang
Published: January 2023

Over the last decade, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have witnessed a steep rise in interest amongst the scientific community. Because of their functional significance in several biological processes, i.e., alternative splicing, epigenetics, cell cycle, dosage compensation, and gene expression regulation, lncRNAs have transformed our understanding of RNA’s regulatory potential. However, most knowledge concerning lncRNAs comes from mammals, and our understanding of the potential role of lncRNAs amongst insects remains unclear. Technological advances such as RNA-seq have enabled entomologists to profile several hundred lncRNAs in insect species, although few are functionally studied. This article will review experimentally validated lncRNAs from different insects and the lncRNAs identified via bioinformatic tools. Lastly, we will discuss the existing research challenges and the future of lncRNAs in insects.
Nitric Oxide Synthase Blockade Impairs Spontaneous Calcium Activity in Mouse Primary Hippocampal Culture Cells
Authors: Sokolov Rostislav A. , Jappy David , Podgorny Oleg V. , Mukhina Irina V.
Published: January 2023

Oscillation of intracellular calcium concentration is a stable phenomenon that affects cellular function throughout the lifetime of both electrically excitable and non-excitable cells. Nitric oxide, a gaseous secondary messenger and the product of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), affects intracellular calcium dynamics. Using mouse hippocampal primary cultures, we recorded the effect of NOS blockade on neuronal spontaneous calcium activity. There was a correlation between the amplitude of spontaneous calcium events and the number of action potentials (APs) (Spearman R = 0.94). There was a linear rise of DAF-FM fluorescent emission showing an increase in NO concentration with time in neurons (11.9 ± 1.0%). There is correlation between the integral of the signal from DAF-FM and the integral of the spontaneous calcium event signal from Oregon Green 488 (Spearman R = 0.58). Blockade of NOS affected the parameters of the spontaneous calcium events studied (amplitude, frequency, integral, rise slope and decay slope). NOS blockade by Nw-Nitro-L-arginine suppressed the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous calcium events. The NOS blocker 3-Bromo-7-Nitroindazole reduced the frequency but not the amplitude of spontaneous calcium activity. Blockade of the well-known regulator of NOS, calcineurin with cyclosporine A reduced the integral of calcium activity in neurons. The differences and similarities in the effects on the parameters of spontaneous calcium effects caused by different blockades of NO production help to improve understanding of how NO synthesis affects calcium dynamics in neurons.
Evaluation of the Small Heat Shock Protein Family Members HSPB2 and HSPB3 in Bladder Cancer Prognosis and Progression
Authors: Gianniou Despoina D. , Sklirou Aimilia D. , Papadimitriou Maria-Alexandra , Pilala Katerina-Marina , Stravodimos Konstantinos , Avgeris Margaritis , Scorilas Andreas , Trougakos Ioannis P.
Published: January 2023

Bladder cancer (BlCa) represents the sixth most commonly diagnosed type of male malignancy. Due to the clinical heterogeneity of BlCa, novel markers would optimize treatment efficacy and improve prognosis. The small heat shock proteins (sHSP) family is one of the major groups of molecular chaperones responsible for the maintenance of proteome functionality and stability. However, the role of sHSPs in BlCa remains largely unknown. The present study aimed to examine the association between HSPB2 and HSPB3 expression and BlCa progression in patients, and to investigate their role in BlCa cells. For this purpose, a series of experiments including reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, Western blotting, MTT assay and flow cytometry were performed. Initial analyses revealed increased vs. human transitional carcinoma cells, expression levels of the HSPB2 and HSPB3 genes and proteins in high grade BlCa cell lines. Therefore, we then evaluated the clinical significance of the HSPB2 and HSPB3 genes expression levels in bladder tumor samples and matched adjusted normal bladder specimens. Total RNA from 100 bladder tumor samples and 49 paired non-cancerous bladder specimens were isolated, and an accurate SYBR-Green based real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) protocol was developed to quantify HSPB2 and HSPB3 mRNA levels in the two cohorts of specimens. A significant downregulation of the HSPB2 and HSPB3 genes expression was observed in bladder tumors as compared to matched normal urothelium; yet, increased HSPB2 and HSPB3 levels were noted in muscle-invasive (T2–T4) vs. superficial tumors (TaT1), as well as in high-grade vs. low-grade tumors. Survival analyses highlighted the significantly higher risk for post-treatment disease relapse in TaT1 patients poorly expressing HSPB2 and HSPB3 genes; this effect tended to be inverted in advanced disease stages (muscle-invasive tumors) indicating the biphasic impact of HSPB2, HSPB3 genes in BlCa progression. The pro-survival role of HSPB2 and HSPB3 in advanced tumor cells was also evident by our finding that HSPB2, HSPB3 genes expression silencing in high grade BlCa cells enhanced doxorubicin toxicity. These findings indicate that the HSPB2, HSPB3 chaperone genes have a likely pro-survival role in advanced BlCa; thus, they can be targeted as novel molecular markers to optimize treatment efficacy in BlCa and to limit unnecessary interventions.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Potential Oncoimmunomodulator Agents
Authors: Gil-Edo Raquel , Espejo Sara , Falomir Eva , Carda Miguel
Published: January 2023

Fourteen triazole-scaffold derivatives were synthetized and biologically evaluated as potential oncoimmunomodultator agents by targeting both PD-L1 and c-Myc. First, the antiproliferative activity of these molecules on the monocultures of several tumor cell lines (HT-29, A-549, and MCF-7) and on the non-tumor cell line HEK-293 was studied. Then, the effects on the mentioned biological targets were also evaluated. Finally, the effect on cancer cell viability when the molecules were co-cultured with immune cells (Jurkat T cells or THP-1) was also determined. Compounds bearing a bromoophenyl group were selected because of their excellent results, and their effect on IL-6 secretion was also studied. In conclusion, we found compounds that are capable of downregulating c-Myc, as well as influencing and altering the distribution of PD-L1 in tumor cells; the compounds are thus capable of influencing the behavior of defensive cells towards cancer cells. p-Bromophenyltriazol 3 is the most active of these as a PD-L1 and c-Myc downregulator and as a potential immunomodulator agent. Moreover, it exhibits an interesting action on inflammation-related cytokine IL-6.
The Switch and Reciprocating Models for the Function of ABC Multidrug Exporters: Perspectives on Recent Research
Authors: Jones Peter M. , George Anthony M.
Published: January 2023

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters comprise a large superfamily of primary active transporters, which are integral membrane proteins that couple energy to the uphill vectorial transport of substrates across cellular membranes, with concomitant hydrolysis of ATP. ABC transporters are found in all living organisms, coordinating mostly import in prokaryotes and export in eukaryotes. Unlike the highly conserved nucleotide binding domains (NBDs), sequence conservation in the transmembrane domains (TMDs) is low, with their divergent nature likely reflecting a need to accommodate a wide range of substrate types in terms of mass and polarity. An explosion in high resolution structural analysis over the past decade and a half has produced a wealth of structural information for ABCs. Based on the structures, a general mechanism for ABC transporters has been proposed, known as the Switch or Alternating Access Model, which holds that the NBDs are widely separated, with the TMDs and NBDs together forming an intracellular-facing inverted “V” shape. Binding of two ATPs and the substrate to the inward-facing conformation induces a transition to an outward conformation. Despite this apparent progress, certainty around the transport mechanism for any given ABC remains elusive. How substrate binding and transport is coupled to ATP binding and hydrolysis is not known, and there is a large body of biochemical and biophysical data that is at odds with the widely separated NBDs being a functional physiological state. An alternative Constant Contact model has been proposed in which the two NBSs operate 180 degrees out of phase with respect to ATP hydrolysis, with the NBDs remaining in close proximity throughout the transport cycle and operating in an asymmetric allosteric manner. The two models are discussed in the light of recent nuclear magnetic resonance and hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry analyses of three ABC exporters.
Altered Posttranslational Modification of Microtubules Contributes to Disturbed Enterocyte Morphology in Celiac Disease
Authors: Stricker Sebastian , Müller Manuel , Zimmer Klaus-Peter , Jacob Ralf
Published: January 2023

Celiac disease (CD) represents a frequent autoimmune disease triggered by the ingestion of gliadin in genetically predisposed individuals. The alteration of enterocytes and brush border membrane morphology have been repetitively demonstrated, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Microtubules represent a major element of the cytoskeleton and exert multiple functions depending on their tyrosination status. The aim of our study was to investigate whether posttranslational modification of microtubules was altered in the context of CD and whether this mechanism contributed to morphological changes of CD enterocytes. We examined the expression of tubulin tyrosine ligase (TTL) and vasohibin-2 (VASH2) and the level of detyrosinated and acetylated tubulin in duodenal biopsies and Caco-2 cells by immunoblot and immunofluorescence microcopy. Electron microscopy was performed to investigate the subcellular distribution of detyrosinated tubulin and brush border membrane architecture in CD biopsies and Madin–Darby Canine Kidney type II (MDCK) cells lacking TTL. CD enterocytes and Caco-2 cells stimulated with digested gliadin or IFN-y displayed a flattened cell morphology. This disturbed cellular architecture was accompanied by an increased amount of detyrosinated and acetylated tubulin and corresponding high expression of VASH2 and low expression of TTL. The altered posttranslational modification of tubulin was reversible after the introduction of the gluten-free diet. CD enterocytes and MDCK cells deficient in TTL displayed a reduced cell height along with an increased cell width and a reduced number of apical microvilli. Our results provide a functional explanation for the observed morphological alterations of the enterocytes observed in CD and provide diagnostic potential of the tyrosination status of microtubules as an early marker of villous atrophy and CD inflammation.
The Response of Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) Genotypes at Different Ploidy Levels to Salt (NaCl) Stress
Authors: Aycan Murat , Erkilic Emine Gulden , Ozgen Yasin , Poyraz Irem , Yildiz Mustafa
Published: January 2023

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is cultivated in temperate climates worldwide to produce sugar. The production of sugar beet and other plants is in danger due to the world’s increasingly salinized soils. Although different sugar beet genotypes exist at various ploidy levels, most of them are diploid (2X) with 18 chromosomes. The majority of polyploid plants have different variations, morphologies, and anatomy. Diploid and polyploid plants especially have different morphology, physiology, cellularity, and biochemistry. As a result, polyploidy has been identified as an essential component in determining plant salt tolerance. To evaluate the effects of salt (NaCl) stress on sugar beet genotypes, diploid (2X), triploid (3X), and tetraploid (4X) genotypes were exposed to 0 (control), 50, and 150 mM NaCl concentrations for seven weeks. Under control conditions, the diploid (2X) genotype showed higher growth performance compared to the tetraploid (4X) and triploid (3X) genotypes, respectively. Regarding germination and early-stage growth performance, a reduction of about 50% was observed in the diploid (2X) genotype under salt stress compared to the control condition. The diploid (2X) genotype showed higher germination, a greater salt tolerance index, and better seedling growth performance than the other ploidy levels. Late-stage growth, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, cytological findings, and total chlorophyll content were all shown to be higher and less reduced (around 30%) under salt stress in diploid (2X) genotypes. Even though all of the findings in this study showed a decrease when plants were exposed to salt (NaCl), the diploid (2X) ploidy level plants displayed more robust growth and development than the triploid (3X) and tetraploid (4X) genotypes.
Assessment of Genetic Stability on In Vitro Propagation of Ardisia crenata var. bicolor Using ISSR Markers
Authors: Ai Xingmei , Wen Yonghui , Wang Bin
Published: January 2023

Ardisia crenata var. bicolor is a multi-purpose plant and has important ornamental and medicinal properties. Conventional methods of propagating the species from seeds and cuttings have low efficiency because of the recalcitrant properties of seeds and low survival rate of high-quality cuttings. This work aims to study the in vitro regeneration protocol for direct organogenesis from nodal segments of A. crenata var. bicolor on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, with different combinations and concentrations of plant growth regulators (PGRs). The treatments used for the establishment and proliferation of shoots included MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of Benzyl-aminopurine (BAP) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). For rooting, IBA was used in combination with naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) in full- and half-strength MS media. Maximum shoot establishment (76.67%) and the highest shoot length (6.6 cm) were observed on MS medium with 1.0 mg·L−1 BAP with 0.5 mg·L−1 IBA, while BAP at 1.0 mg·L−1 with 0.25 mg·L−1 IBA obtained the highest shoot proliferation (4.5 ± 1.53). The best rooting response (83.33%) was achieved on half-strength MS including 1.0 mg·L−1 IBA with 0.25 mg·L−1 NAA, and the maximum survival rate of 84.4% was observed after acclimatization under 75% shading. To define their genetic stability, using eleven primers of ISSR markers to assess the genetic stability of the unstable leaf color samples compared with their mother plant, the ISSR markers demonstrated a level of genetic polymorphism in plantlets, but without other morphological variations. This indicates the genetic resemblance to the mother plant and the reliability of this protocol for the efficient micropropagation of A. crenata var. bicolor.
Towards Moving Objects Behavior Analysis: Region Speed Limit Rate Measure
Authors: Moreno Arboleda Francisco Javier , Garani Georgia , Zea Gallego Simon
Published: January 2023

In this paper, a measure is proposed that, based on the trajectories of moving objects, computes the speed limit rate in each of the cells in which a region is segmented (the space where the objects move). The time is also segmented into intervals. In this way, the behavior of moving objects can be analyzed with regard to their speed in a cell for a given time interval. An implementation of the corresponding algorithm for this measure and several experiments were conducted with the trajectories of taxis in Porto (Portugal). The results showed that the speed limit rate measure can be helpful for detecting patterns of movement, e.g., in a day (morning hours vs. night hours) or on different days of the week (weekdays vs. weekends). This measure might also serve as a rough estimate for congestion in a (sub)region. This may be useful for traffic analysis, including traffic prediction.
Effectiveness of Telemedicine in Diabetes Management: A Retrospective Study in an Urban Medically Underserved Population Area (UMUPA)
Authors: Ward Lisa Ariellah , Shah Gulzar H. , Jones Jeffery A. , Kimsey Linda , Samawi Hani
Published: January 2023

This paper examines the efficacy of telemedicine (TM) technology compared to traditional face-to-face (F2F) visits as an alternative healthcare delivery service for managing diabetes in populations residing in urban medically underserved areas (UMUPAs). Retrospective electronic patient health records (ePHR) with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were examined from 1 January 2019 to 30 June 2021. Multiple linear regression models indicated that T2DM patients with uncontrolled diabetes utilizing TM were similar to traditional visits in lowering hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. The healthcare service type significantly predicted HbA1c % values, as the regression coefficient for TM (vs. F2F) showed a significant negative association (B = −0.339, p < 0.001), suggesting that patients using TM were likely to have 0.34 lower HbA1c % values on average when compared with F2F visits. The regression coefficient for female (vs. male) gender showed a positive association (B = 0.190, p < 0.034), with HbA1c % levels showing that female patients had 0.19 higher HbA1c levels than males. Age (B = −0.026, p < 0.001) was a significant predictor of HbA1c % levels, with 0.026 lower HbA1c % levels for each year’s increase in age. Black adults (B = 0.888, p < 0.001), on average, were more likely to have 0.888 higher HbA1c % levels when compared with White adults.
Exploring the Interdependence between Electronically Unfavorable Situations and Pressure in a Chalcogenide Superconductor
Authors: Fries Kai S. , Steinberg Simon
Published: January 2023

The development of solids with the requested chemical and physical properties requires a thorough understanding of their electronic structures, as proper knowledge of the electronic structure of a given solid provides invaluable information regarding its properties. In this context, recent research on two competing sorts of electronic instabilities in chalcogenide superconductors stimulated us to explore the interdependence between these instabilities and another aspect, pressure, which was previously shown to influence the presence of a superconducting state in diverse solids. To accomplish our goal, we carried out pressure-dependent examinations of the electronic structures of two tellurides, YTe and YTe0.97, which were inspected as prototypes in our explorations based on quantum-chemical means. In addition to our pressure-dependent explorations of the electronic structures, we also performed chemical bonding analyses to reveal the subtle interplay between pressure and two sorts of electronically unfavorable situations.
MOFs for Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage
Authors: Pettinari Claudio , Tombesi Alessia
Published: January 2023

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are a family of crystalline porous materials which attracts much attention for their possible application in energy electrochemical conversion and storage devices due to their ordered structures characterized by large surface areas and the presence in selected cases of a redox-active porous skeleton. Their synthetic versatility and relevant host-guest chemistry make them suitable platform for use in stable and flexible conductive materials. In this review we summarize the most recent results obtained in this field, by analyzing the use of MOFs in fuel and solar cells with special emphasis on PEMFCs and PSCs, their application in supercapacitors and the employment in batteries by differentiating Li-, Na- and other metal ion-batteries. Finally, an overview of the water splitting reaction MOF-catalyzed is also reported.
VHCF of the 3D-Printed Aluminum Alloy AlSi10Mg
Authors: Babaytsev Arseny , Nikitin Alexander , Ripetskiy Andrey
Published: January 2023

The paper is focused on the very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) properties of aluminum alloys proceeded in two different technological procedures. The hot-rolled D16T alloy is compared with the selected laser melting (SLM) AlSi10Mg alloy. The fatigue tests were performed at a high frequency (20 kHz) in the laboratory air environment at room temperature. The experimental results showed a significant difference in fatigue strength between hot-rolled and SLM materials. The VHCF properties of AlSi10Mg were more than two times lower than those of D16T in spite of the comparable quasi-static tensile properties. The difference in fatigue properties was explained based on fractographic analysis of fracture surfaces. The morphology of the fracture pattern was qualitatively different. In the case of the hot-rolled alloy, the three clear zones of crack growth could be outlined. The main part of the pattern was covered by quasi-brittle facets that are typical for VHCF fractures in Al alloys. In the case of the SLM material, unregulated structures were found in the microstructure. In some local zones, numerous non-melted particles were observed on the fracture surface. The boundaries of certain layers also played an important role in the fracture. Large, separated surfaces were observed on the fracture pattern. It is important to note that these boundaries were not associated with the layer-by-layer building of the specimen. The distance between such features was significantly larger than the thickness of an individual layer.
On Some Theoretical Aspects of The Evaporation Process of a Droplet and Its Optimal Size When Extinguishing Fires
Authors: Gladkov Sergey Oktyabrinovich
Published: January 2023

We are proposing a model mathematical description of droplet evaporation using the kinetic approach. We have obtained the basic equation of the theory by using the law of conserving the full power of the vapor–liquid system, which has not been done before. We have found the range of droplet sizes at which it is stable. We have given a comparison of the obtained results with the known traditional ones. We have given numerical estimates for the critical size of the fine-dispersed phase up to the value of which ordinary evaporation takes place (that is for Knudsen number Kn=lR, inequality Kn≪1 must be fulfilled, where l− is the free path of the molecule and R− is the droplet radius). We have given the optimal droplet size which is the most effective from the point of view of technical use in extinguishing flammable oil transformers.
Best Practice Guide for Cryoballoon Ablation in Atrial Fibrillation: The Compilation Experience of More than 1000 Procedures
Authors: Tsiachris Dimitriοs , Antoniou Christos-Konstantinos , Doundoulakis Ioannis , Manolakou Panagiota , Sougiannis Demetrios , Kordalis Athanasios , Gatzoulis Konstantinos A. , Chierchia Gian-Battista , de Asmundis Carlo , Stefanadis Christodoulos , Tsioufis Konstantinos
Published: January 2023

Nowadays, the cryoballoon (CB) constitutes an established alternative to radio frequency (RF) ablation for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), which offers the possibility to isolate the PVs with a single application. Since the introduction of the second-generation CB, we prospectively collected our data to optimize the procedure on >1000 consecutive patients who underwent CB PVI performed in our center. It is expected that subsequent guidelines will suggest first-line PVI through CB in patients with paroxysmal AF with a class I indication. Indeed, in the long-term follow-up (36 months) of the EARLY-AF trial, CB had a lower incidence of persistent atrial fibrillation episodes compared to the anti-arrhythmic drugs group. We now review the current best practices in an effort to drive consistent outcomes and minimize complications. PV isolation through CB is the most studied single-shot technique for atrial fibrillation ablation, having shown the potential to alter the natural history of the arrhythmia. Several procedural tips and tricks can improve procedural flow and effectiveness. In the present article we provided not only technical details but measurable biophysical parameters that can reliably guide the operator into achieving the best outcome for his patients.
Comparative Analysis of Temperature Rise between Convective Heat Transfer Method and Computational Fluid Dynamics Method in an Anatomy-Based Left Atrium Model during Pulsed Field Ablation: A Computational Study
Authors: Zang Lianru , Gu Kaihao , Ji Xingkai , Zhang Hao , Yan Shengjie , Wu Xiaomei
Published: January 2023

The non-thermal effects are considered one of the prominent advantages of pulsed field ablation (PFA). However, at higher PFA doses, the temperature rise in the tissue during PFA may exceed the thermal damage threshold, at which time intracardiac pulsatile blood flow plays a crucial role in suppressing this temperature rise. This study aims to compare the effect of heat dissipation of the different methods in simulating the pulsatile blood flow during PFA. This study first constructed an anatomy-based left atrium (LA) model and then applied the convective heat transfer (CHT) method and the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method to the model, respectively, and the thermal convective coefficients used in the CHT method are 984 (W/m2*K) (blood-myocardium interface) and 4372 (W/m2*K) (blood–catheter interface), respectively. Then, it compared the effect of the above two methods on the maximum temperature of myocardium and blood, as well as the myocardial ablation volumes caused by irreversible electroporation (IRE) and hyperthermia under different PFA parameters. Compared with the CFD method, the CHT method underestimates the maximum temperature of myocardium and blood; the differences in the maximum temperature of myocardium and blood between the two methods at the end of the last pulse are significant (>1 °C), and the differences in the maximum temperature of blood at the end of the last pulse interval are significant (>1 °C) only at a pulse amplitude greater than 1000 V or pulse number greater than 10. Under the same pulse amplitude and different heat dissipation methods, the IRE ablation volumes are the same. Compared with the CFD method, the CHT method underestimates the hyperthermia ablation volume; the differences in the hyperthermia ablation volume are significant (>1 mm3) only at a pulse amplitude greater than 1000 V, a pulse interval of 250 ms, or a pulse number greater than 10. Additionally, the hyperthermia ablation isosurfaces are completely wrapped by the IRE ablation isosurfaces in the myocardium. Thus, during PFA, compared with the CFD method, the CHT method cannot accurately simulate the maximum myocardial temperature; however, except at the above PFA parameters, the CHT method can accurately simulate the maximum blood temperature and the myocardial ablation volume caused by IRE and hyperthermia. Additionally, within the range of the PFA parameters used in this study, the temperature rise during PFA may not lead to the appearance of additional hyperthermia ablation areas beyond the IRE ablation area in the myocardium.
C-Reactive Protein and White Blood Cell Count in Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Dudda Jonas , Schupp Tobias , Rusnak Jonas , Weidner Kathrin , Abumayyaleh Mohammad , Ruka Marinela , Egner-Walter Sascha , Forner Jan , Müller Julian , Bertsch Thomas , Kittel Maximilian , Akin Ibrahim , Behnes Michael
Published: January 2023

This study examines the prognostic impact of C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) counts in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS). Data regarding the prognostic impact of inflammatory biomarkers in CS are scarce. All consecutive patients with CS from 2019 to 2021 admitted to a cardiac intensive care unit (ICU) were included at one institution. Laboratory measurements were retrieved from the day of admission (i.e., day 1), as well as days 2, 3, 4, and 8. The primary endpoint was 30-day all-cause mortality. Statistical analyses included univariate t-tests, Spearman’s correlations, C-statistics, Kaplan–Meier, and Cox regression analyses. From a total of 240 consecutive patients admitted with CS, 55% died within 30 days. CRP levels on days 3 to 8 were associated with reliable discrimination for 30-day all-cause mortality (area under the curve (AUC): 0.623–0.754), whereas CRP on day 1 was not (AUC = 0.514). In line, CRP > 100 mg/L on day 3 (56% vs. 37%; log-rank p = 0.023; HR = 1.702; 95% CI 1.060–2.735; p = 0.028) and especially a CRP increase of at least 200% from days 1 to day 3 (51% vs. 35%; log-rank p = 0.040; HR = 1.720; 95% CI 1.006–2.943; p = 0.048) were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Furthermore, WBC on day 1 discriminated 30-day all-cause mortality (AUC = 0.605; p = 0.005) with an increased risk of all-cause mortality in patients admitted with WBC > 10 × 106/mL (59% vs. 40%; log-rank p = 0.036; HR = 1.643; 95% CI 1.010–2.671; p = 0.045). In conclusion, WBC count on admission as well as CRP levels during the course of ICU treatment were associated with 30-day all-cause mortality. Specifically, an increase of CRP levels by at least 200% from day 1 to day 3 during the course of ICU treatment was associated with an increased risk of 30-day all-cause mortality. The present study is one of the first to describe the prognostic value of inflammatory biomarkers in consecutive all-comer CS patients treated at a cardiac ICU.