bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expansion Coefficients and Propagation Speeds of Premixed n-Butane–Air Flames
Authors: Razus Domnina , Movileanu Codina , Mitu Maria , Giurcan Venera
Published: July 2023

The propagation speeds of premixed n-butane–air mixtures (2.0–5.7 vol%) were investigated under various initial conditions (pressures of 0.4–1.2 bar; temperatures of 289–500 K). The study consists of both, experimental measurements using two different enclosures (a sphere and a cylinder) and kinetic modeling via a dedicated computing program. The propagation speeds of premixed n-butane–air mixtures were obtained via the adiabatic model of flame propagation, which allows us to obtain these important parameters using the normal burning velocities and expansion coefficients. The expansion coefficients were calculated using thermodynamic data as the ratio of burnt to unburnt gas densities, assuming that an equilibrium was established in the flame front. The propagation speeds obtained based on the experimental burning velocities were analyzed for comparison with the computed velocities. Finally, the dependence of the propagation speed on the initial pressure and temperature was discussed.
Engagement and Retention of Families in Universal Australian Nurse-Home-Visiting Services: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Mawhinney Belinda , Fraser Jennifer A.
Published: July 2023

Family support is offered to Australian parents of young children using a mix of targeted and universal child and family health services including nurse-home-visiting programmes. These rely on the voluntary engagement of families. In this study, the capacity to engage and retain families, including those at risk of becoming involved with child protection services, was examined. The broad objective was to identify nursing practices used at the interface of health and child protection services and to articulate those practices. Child and Family Health Nurses (CFHN) (n = 129) participated in a pragmatic, multilevel mixed-methods study. A questionnaire was used to identify nursing practices in the first phase of this study followed by focus groups in the second phase to describe these practices in more detail. Three practice themes were identified and described: enrolment, retention and conclusion of the nurse–family relationship. Universal child and family health services feature flexible, advanced, and multidimensional family support services including child protection practices. This paper focuses on practices employed by nurses to engage and retain families where child protection concerns are identified.
Allied Health Professions Accreditation Standards for Work Integrated Learning: A Document Analysis
Authors: Penman Merrolee , Raymond Jacqueline , Kumar Annora , Liang Renae Y. R. , Sundar Karen , Thomas Yvonne
Published: July 2023

A key role of allied health (AH) professional regulatory and professional bodies is to ensure that AH education programs provide work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities for students. The requirements are outlined via the respective profession’s educational accreditation standards. Although a significant component of the AH professional degrees, researchers have not explored how standards specific to WIL are developed, nor how WIL might be conceptualised through the standards. This study explored how WIL is conceptualised through comparing the WIL education standards across Australian AH professions. Using a non-experimental explanatory mixed-methods research design, a document analysis of Australian education program accreditation standards (and associated documents) for 15 AH professions was undertaken. Data analysis included inductive textual and thematic analyses to compare AH professionals’ conceptualisation of WIL. This study found a high degree of variation in how AH professions describe WIL. While there was a common requirement for students to demonstrate competency in WIL, requirements for WIL quantity, assessment and supervision varied. Four key themes were identified regarding the contribution of WIL to curriculum and student learning: (1) the relationship between WIL and the program curriculum; (2) WIL as a learning process; (3) learning from diverse WIL contexts; and (4) developing competence through WIL. Overall, the diversity in the standards reflected differing understandings of what WIL is. Thus, in the absence of frameworks for designing accreditation standards, the risk is that some AH professions will continue to perpetuate the myth that the primary purpose of WIL is to provide a bridge between theory and practice.
Correction: Albendín-García et al. Explanatory Models of Burnout Diagnosis Based on Personality Factors in Primary Care Nurses. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 9170
Authors: Albendín-García Luis , Suleiman-Martos Nora , Ortega-Campos Elena , Aguayo-Estremera Raimundo , Romero-Béjar José L. , Cañadas-De la Fuente Guillermo A.
Published: July 2023

The following corrections have been made to the paper [...]
The Flow of Glasses and Glass–Liquid Transition under Electron Irradiation
Authors: Ojovan Michael I.
Published: July 2023

Recent discovery and investigation of the flow of glasses under the electron beams of transmission electron microscopes raised the question of eventual occurrence of such type effects in the vitrified highly radioactive nuclear waste (HLW). In connection to this, we analyse here the flow of glasses and glass–liquid transition in conditions of continuous electron irradiation such as under the e-beam of transmission electron microscopes (TEM) utilising the configuron (broken chemical bond) concept and configuron percolation theory (CPT) methods. It is shown that in such conditions, the fluidity of glasses always increases with a substantial decrease in activation energy of flow at low temperatures and that the main parameter that controls this behaviour is the dose rate of absorbed radiation in the glass. It is revealed that at high dose rates, the temperature of glass–liquid transition sharply drops, and the glass is fully fluidised. Numerical estimations show that the dose rates of TEM e-beams where the silicate glasses were fluidised are many orders of magnitude higher compared to the dose rates characteristic for currently vitrified HLW.
Effective Dipole Moment Model for Axially Symmetric C3v Molecules: Application to the Precise Study of Absolute Line Strengths of the ν6 Fundamental of CH335Cl
Authors: Ulenikov Oleg , Bekhtereva Elena , Gromova Olga , Fomchenko Anna , Morzhikova Yulia , Sidko Sergei , Sydow Christian , Bauerecker Sigurd
Published: July 2023

The effective dipole moment model for molecules of axial C3v symmetry is derived on the basis of the symmetry properties of a molecule which, on the one hand, is of the same order of efficiency (but much simpler and clearer in applications) as the analogous models derived on the basis of the irreducible tensorial sets theory, and, on the other hand, mathematically more correct in comparison with concepts like the Herman–Walles function used in the models. As an application of the general results obtained, we discuss high-resolution infrared spectra of CH335Cl, recorded with the Zürich prototype ZP2001 (Bruker IFS125 HR) Fourier transform infrared spectrometer at a resolution of 0.001 cm−1 and analyzed in the region of 880–1190 cm−1 (ν6 bending fundamental centered at ν0 = 1018.070790 cm−1). Absolute strengths of more than 2800 transitions (2081 lines) were obtained from the fit of their shapes both with Voigt and Hartmann–Tran profiles, and parameters of the effective dipole moment of the ν6 band were determined by the computer code SYMTOMLIST (SYMmetric TOp Molecules: LIne STrengths), created on the basis of a derived theoretical model. As the first step of the analysis of the experimental data, assignments of the recorded lines were made. A total of 5124 transitions with Jmax = 68, Kmax = 21 were assigned to the ν6 band. The weighted fit of 2077 upper energy values obtained from the experimentally recorded transitions was made with a Hamiltonian which takes into account different types of ro–vibrational effects in doubly degenerate vibrational states of the C3v-symmetric molecule. As the result, a set of 25 fitted parameters was obtained which reproduces the initial 2077 upper “experimental” ro–vibrational energy values with a root mean square deviation drms=4.7×10−5 cm−1. At the second step of the analysis, the computer code SYMTOMLIST was used for determination of the parameters of the derived effective dipole moment model. Six effective dipole moment parameters were obtained from the weighted fit procedure which reproduces absolute experimental strengths of the 2804 initial experimental transitions with a relative drms=3.4%.
The Potential of Bile Acids as Biomarkers for Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Yin Chang , Zhong Ruqing , Zhang Weidong , Liu Lei , Chen Liang , Zhang Hongfu
Published: July 2023

Bile acids (BAs) are well known to facilitate the absorption of dietary fat and fat-soluble molecules. These unique steroids also function by binding to the ubiquitous cell membranes and nuclear receptors. As chemical signals in gut–liver axis, the presence of metabolic disorders such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and even tumors have been reported to be closely related to abnormal levels of BAs in the blood and fecal metabolites of patients. Thus, the gut microbiota interacting with BAs and altering BA metabolism are critical in the pathogenesis of numerous chronic diseases. This review intends to summarize the mechanistic links between metabolic disorders and BAs in gut–liver axis, and such stage-specific BA perturbation patterns may provide clues for developing new auxiliary diagnostic means.
Organelle Genetics in Plants 2.0
Authors: Robles Pedro , Quesada Víctor
Published: July 2023

Most of the DNA of eukaryotes is located in the nucleus [...]
The Role of ADAMTS Proteoglycanases in Thoracic Aortic Disease
Authors: Kemberi Marsioleda , Salmasi Yousuf , Santamaria Salvatore
Published: July 2023

Thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) are complex disease states with high morbidity and mortality that pose significant challenges to early diagnosis. Patients with an aneurysm are asymptomatic and typically present to the emergency department only after the development of a dissection. The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in regulating the aortic structure and function. The histopathologic hallmark termed medial degeneration is characterised by smooth muscle cell (SMC) loss, the degradation of elastic and collagen fibres and proteoglycan (PG) accumulation. Covalently attached to the protein core of PGs are a number of glycosaminoglycan chains, negatively charged molecules that provide flexibility, compressibility, and viscoelasticity to the aorta. PG pooling in the media can produce discontinuities in the aortic wall leading to increased local stress. The accumulation of PGs is likely due to an imbalance between their synthesis by SMCs and decreased proteolysis by A Disintegrin-like and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) proteoglycanases in the ECM. Mouse models of TAAD indicated that these proteases exert a crucial, albeit complex and not fully elucidated, role in this disease. This has led to a mounting interest in utilising ADAMTS proteoglycanases as biomarkers of TAAD. In this review, we discuss the role of ADAMTSs in thoracic aortic disease and their potential use in facilitating the clinical diagnosis of TAAD and disease progression.
Modified Lactoperoxidase System as a Promising Anticaries Agent: In Vitro Studies on Streptococcus mutans Biofilms
Authors: Magacz Marcin , Alatorre-Santamaría Sergio , Kędziora Karolina , Klasa Kacper , Mamica Paweł , Pepasińska Wiktoria , Lebiecka Magdalena , Kościelniak Dorota , Pamuła Elżbieta , Krzyściak Wirginia
Published: July 2023

The lactoperoxidase (LPO) system shows promise in the prevention of dental caries, a common chronic disease. This system has antimicrobial properties and is part of the non-specific antimicrobial immune system. Understanding the efficacy of the LPO system in the fight against biofilms could provide information on alternative strategies for the prevention and treatment of caries. In this study, the enzymatic system was modified using four different (pseudo)halide substrates (thiocyanate, thiocyanate-iodide mixture, selenocyanate, and iodide). The study evaluated the metabolic effects of applying such modifications to Streptococcus mutans; in particular: (1) biofilm formation, (2) synthesis of insoluble polysaccharides, (3) lactate synthesis, (4) glucose and sucrose consumption, (5) intracellular NAD+ and NADH concentrations, and (6) transmembrane glucose transport efficiency (PTS activity). The results showed that the LPO–iodide system had the strongest inhibitory effect on biofilm growth and lactate synthesis (complete inhibition). This was associated with an increase in the NAD+/NADH ratio and an inhibition of glucose PTS activity. The LPO–selenocyanate system showed a moderate inhibitory effect on biofilm biomass growth and lactate synthesis. The other systems showed relatively small inhibition of lactate synthesis and glucose PTS but no effect on the growth of biofilm biomass. This study provides a basis for further research on the use of alternative substrates with the LPO system, particularly the LPO–iodide system, in the prevention and control of biofilm-related diseases.
Integrated Metabolome and Transcriptome Analysis Provides New Insights into the Glossy Graft Cucumber Fruit (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Ren Jie , Yang Lu , Cao Ruifang , Wang Yidan , Zhang Can , Yu Xuejing , Meng Wendi , Ye Xueling
Published: July 2023

Cucumber is an important vegetable crop, and grafts often affect the quality and wax loss in cucumber fruit and affect its value. However, their metabolites and molecular mechanisms of action remain unclear. Metabolome and transcriptome analyses were conducted on the fruit peels of self-rooted plants (SR) grafted with white seed pumpkin (WG). The results showed that there were 352 differential metabolites in the fruit peels of the SR and WG. The transcriptome analysis showed 1371 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the WG and SR. These differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in plant hormone signal transduction, cutin, suberin, wax biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and zeatin biosynthesis. By analyzing the correlation between differential metabolites and differentially expressed genes, six candidate genes related to the synthesis of glycitein, kaempferol, and homoeriodictyol were identified as being potentially important. Key transcription factors belonging to the TCP and WRKY families may be the main drivers of transcriptional changes in the peel between the SR and WG. The results of this study have provided a basis for the biosynthesis and regulation of wax loss and quality in grafted cucumbers and represents an important step toward identifying the molecular mechanisms of grafting onto cucumber fruit.
Detection of Primary DNA Lesions by Transient Changes in Mating Behavior in Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Using the Alpha-Test
Authors: Zhuk Anna S. , Shiriaeva Anna A. , Andreychuk Yulia V. , Kochenova Olga V. , Tarakhovskaya Elena R. , Bure Vladimir M. , Pavlov Youri I. , Inge-Vechtomov Sergey G. , Stepchenkova Elena I.
Published: July 2023

Spontaneous or induced DNA lesions can result in stable gene mutations and chromosomal aberrations due to their inaccurate repair, ultimately resulting in phenotype changes. Some DNA lesions per se may interfere with transcription, leading to temporary phenocopies of mutations. The direct impact of primary DNA lesions on phenotype before their removal by repair is not well understood. To address this question, we used the alpha-test, which allows for detecting various genetic events leading to temporary or hereditary changes in mating type α→a in heterothallic strains of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Here, we compared yeast strains carrying mutations in DNA repair genes, mismatch repair (pms1), base excision repair (ogg1), and homologous recombination repair (rad52), as well as mutagens causing specific DNA lesions (UV light and camptothecin). We found that double-strand breaks and UV-induced lesions have a stronger effect on the phenotype than mismatches and 8-oxoguanine. Moreover, the loss of the entire chromosome III leads to an immediate mating type switch α→a and does not prevent hybridization. We also evaluated the ability of primary DNA lesions to persist through the cell cycle by assessing the frequency of UV-induced inherited and non-inherited genetic changes in asynchronous cultures of a wild-type (wt) strain and in a cdc28-4 mutant arrested in the G1 phase. Our findings suggest that the phenotypic manifestation of primary DNA lesions depends on their type and the stage of the cell cycle in which it occurred.
Expression of Phospholipase D Family Member 6 in Bovine Testes and Its Molecular Characteristics
Authors: Yang Rui , Zhang Boyang , Zhu Wenqian , Zhu Chunling , Chen Lanxin , Zhao Yansen , Wang Yueqi , Zhang Yan , Riaz Amjad , Tang Bo , Zhang Xueming
Published: July 2023

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the only primitive spermatogonial cells in males that can naturally transmit genetic information to their offspring and replicate throughout their lives. Phospholipase D family member 6 (PLD6) has recently been found to be a surface marker for SSCs in mice and boars; however, it has not been validated in cattle. The results of reversed transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) found that the relative expression of the PLD6 gene in the testicular tissues of two-year-old Simmental calves was significantly higher than that of six-month-old calves. Immunofluorescent staining further verified the expression of PLD6 protein in bovine spermatogenic cells like germ cell marker DEAD box helicase 4 (DDX4, also known as VASA). Based on multiple bioinformatic databases, PLD6 is a conservative protein which has high homology with mouse Q5SWZ9 protein. It is closely involved in the normal functioning of the reproductive system. Molecular dynamics simulation analyzed the binding of PLD6 as a phospholipase to cardiolipin (CL), and the PLD6-CL complex showed high stability. The protein interaction network analysis showed that there is a significant relationship between PLD6 and piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) binding protein. PLD6 acts as an endonuclease and participates in piRNA production. In addition, PLD6 in bovine and mouse testes has a similar expression pattern with the spermatogonium-related genes VASA and piwi like RNA-mediated gene silencing 2 (PIWIL2). In conclusion, these analyses imply that PLD6 has a relatively high expression in bovine testes and could be used as a biomarker for spermatogenic cells including SSCs.
Magnetic Nanocomposite Materials Based on Fe3O4 Nanoparticles with Iron and Silica Glycerolates Shell: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Khonina Tat’yana G. , Demin Alexander M. , Tishin Denis S. , Germov Alexander Yu. , Uimin Mikhail A. , Mekhaev Alexander V. , Minin Artem S. , Karabanalov Maxim S. , Mysik Alexey A. , Bogdanova Ekaterina A. , Krasnov Victor P.
Published: July 2023

Novel magnetic nanocomposite materials based on Fe3O4 nanoparticles coated with iron and silica glycerolates (MNP@Fe(III)Glyc and MNP@Fe(III)/SiGlyc) were obtained. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized using TEM, XRD, TGA, VMS, Mössbauer and IR spectroscopy. The amount of iron and silica glycerolates in the nanocomposites was calculated from the Mössbauer spectroscopy, ICP AES and C,H-elemental analysis. Thus, it has been shown that the distribution of Fe in the shell and core for MNP@Fe(III)Glyc and MNP@Fe(III)/SiGlyc is 27:73 and 32:68, respectively. The synthesized nanocomposites had high specific magnetization values and a high magnetic response to the alternating magnetic field. The hydrolysis of shells based on Fe(III)Glyc and Fe(III)/SiGlyc in aqueous media has been studied. It has been demonstrated that, while the iron glycerolates shell of MNP@Fe(III)Glyc is resistant to hydrolysis, the silica glycerolates shell of MNP@Fe(III)/SiGlyc is rather labile and hydrolyzed by 76.4% in 24 h at 25 °C. The synthesized materials did not show cytotoxicity in in vitro experiments (MTT-assay). The data obtained can be used in the design of materials for controlled-release drug delivery.
Comparison of Extracellular Vesicle Isolation Methods for miRNA Sequencing
Authors: Llorens-Revull Meritxell , Martínez-González Brenda , Quer Josep , Esteban Juan Ignacio , Núñez-Moreno Gonzalo , Mínguez Pablo , Burgui Idoia , Ramos-Ruíz Ricardo , Soria María Eugenia , Rico Angie , Riveiro-Barciela Mar , Sauleda Silvia , Piron María , Corrales Irene , Borràs Francesc E. , Rodríguez-Frías Francisco , Rando Ariadna , Ramírez-Serra Clara , Camós Silvia , Domingo Esteban , Bes Marta , Perales Celia , Costafreda Maria Isabel
Published: July 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) encapsulated in extracellular vesicles (EVs) are potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. However, discrepancies in miRNA patterns and their validation are still frequent due to differences in sample origin, EV isolation, and miRNA sequencing methods. The aim of the present study is to find a reliable EV isolation method for miRNA sequencing, adequate for clinical application. To this aim, two comparative studies were performed in parallel with the same human plasma sample: (i) isolation and characterization of EVs obtained using three procedures: size exclusion chromatography (SEC), iodixanol gradient (GRAD), and its combination (SEC+GRAD) and (ii) evaluation of the yield of miRNA sequences obtained using NextSeq 500 (Illumina) and three miRNA library preparation protocols: NEBNext, NEXTFlex, and SMARTer smRNA-seq. The conclusion of comparison (i) is that recovery of the largest amount of EVs and reproducibility were attained with SEC, but GRAD and SEC+GRAD yielded purer EV preparations. The conclusion of (ii) is that the NEBNext library showed the highest reproducibility in the number of miRNAs recovered and the highest diversity of miRNAs. These results render the combination of GRAD EV isolation and NEBNext library preparation for miRNA retrieval as adequate for clinical applications using plasma samples.
Dynamics of the Second Extracellular Loop Control Transducer Coupling of Peptide-Activated GPCRs
Authors: Wygas Marcel M. , Laugwitz Jeannette M. , Schmidt Peter , Elgeti Matthias , Kaiser Anette
Published: July 2023

Many peptide-activated rhodopsin-like GPCRs share a β-hairpin folding motif in the extracellular loop 2 (ECL2), which interacts with the peptide ligand while at the same time being connected to transmembrane helix 3 (TM3) via a highly conserved disulfide bond. Currently, it remains unknown whether the coupling of the specifically shaped ECL2 to TM3 influences the activation of peptide-activated GPCRs. We investigated this possibility in a selection of peptide GPCRs with known structures. Most of the receptors with cysteine to alanine mutations folded like the respective wild-type and resided in the cell membrane, challenging pure folding stabilization by the disulfide bridge. G-protein signaling of the disulfide mutants was retained to a greater extent in secretin-like GPCRs than in rhodopsin-like GPCRs, while recruitment of arrestin was completely abolished in both groups, which may be linked to alterations in ligand residence time. We found a correlation between receptor activity of the neuropeptide Y2 receptor and alterations in ECL2 dynamics using engineered disulfide bridges or site-directed spin labeling and EPR spectroscopy. These data highlight the functional importance of the TM3-ECL2 link for the activation of specific signaling pathways in peptide-activated GPCRs, which might have implications for future drug discovery.
Photodynamic Therapy for Colorectal Cancer: An Update and a Look to the Future
Authors: Rodrigues José A. , Correia José H.
Published: July 2023

This review provides an update on the current state of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for colorectal cancer (CRC) and explores potential future directions in this field. PDT has emerged as a promising minimally invasive treatment modality that utilizes photosensitizers and specific light wavelengths to induce cell death in targeted tumor tissues. In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the underlying mechanisms, optimizing treatment protocols, and improving the efficacy of PDT for CRC. This article highlights key advancements in PDT techniques, including novel photosensitizers, light sources, and delivery methods. Furthermore, it discusses ongoing research efforts and potential future directions, such as combination therapies and nanotechnology-based approaches. By elucidating the current landscape and providing insights into future directions, this review aims to guide researchers and clinicians in harnessing the full potential of PDT for the effective management of CRC.
The Role of STAT3 Signaling Pathway Activation in Subconjunctival Scar Formation after Glaucoma Filtration Surgery
Authors: Li Yanxia , Zhao Jing , Yin Yuan , Zhang Chenchen , Zhang Zhaoying , Zheng Yajuan
Published: July 2023

Scar formation resulting from overly active wound healing is a critical factor in the success rate of glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). IL-6 and TGF-β have been implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrogenesis. In addition, the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) can be activated by numerous cytokines and growth factors, including IL-6 and TGF-β1. Thus, STAT3 activation may integrate common profibrotic pathways to promote fibrosis. In this study, an increase in p-STAT3 was observed in activated HTFs. Inhibiting STAT3 in cultured HTFs by pharmacological inactivation reversed the fibrotic responses, such as fibroblast migration, the differentiation of resting fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and the deposition of ECM, mediated by IL-6 and TGF-β1. Moreover, the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) was decreased in HTFs cultured with IL-6 and TGF-β1, and SOCS3 overexpression rescued ECM deposition, α-SMA expression and migration in IL-6- and TGF-β1-stimulated HTFs by inactivating STAT3. Finally, S3I-201 treatment inhibited profibrotic gene expression and subconjunctival fibrosis in a rat model of GFS. In conclusion, our data suggests that STAT3 plays a central role in fibrosis induced by different profibrotic pathways and that STAT3 is a potential target for antifibrotic therapies following GFS.
Single-Cell Transcriptome and Pigment Biochemistry Analysis Reveals the Potential for the High Nutritional and Medicinal Value of Purple Sea Cucumbers
Authors: Xing Lili , Wang Lingyu , Liu Shilin , Sun Lina , Wessel Gary M. , Yang Hongsheng
Published: July 2023

The sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus has important nutritional and medicinal value. Unfortunately, we know little of the source of active chemicals in this animal, but the plentiful pigments of these animals are thought to function in intriguing ways for translation into clinical and food chemistry usage. Here, we found key cell groups with the gene activity predicted for the color morphology of sea cucumber body using single-cell RNA-seq. We refer to these cell populations as melanocytes and quinocytes, which are responsible for the synthesis of melanin and quinone pigments, respectively. We integrated analysis of pigment biochemistry with the transcript profiles to illuminate the molecular mechanisms regulating distinct pigment formation in echinoderms. In concert with the correlated pigment analysis from each color morph, this study expands our understanding of medically important pigment production, as well as the genetic mechanisms for color morphs, and provides deep datasets for exploring advancements in the fields of bioactives and nutraceuticals.
Pilot Study of Cytoprotective Mechanisms of Selenium Nanorods (SeNrs) under Ischemia-like Conditions on Cortical Astrocytes
Authors: Varlamova Elena G. , Plotnikov Egor Y. , Baimler Ilya V. , Gudkov Sergey V. , Turovsky Egor A.
Published: July 2023

The cytoprotective properties of the trace element selenium, its nanoparticles, and selenium nanocomplexes with active compounds are shown using a number of models. To date, some molecular mechanisms of the protective effect of spherical selenium nanoparticles under the action of ischemia/reoxygenation on brain cells have been studied. Among other things, the dependence of the effectiveness of the neuroprotective properties of nanoselenium on its diameter, pathways, and efficiency of penetration into astrocytes was established. In general, most research in the field of nanomedicine is focused on the preparation and study of spherical nanoparticles of various origins due to the ease of their preparation; in addition, spherical nanoparticles have a large specific surface area. However, obtaining and studying the mechanisms of action of nanoparticles of a new form are of great interest since nanorods, having all the positive properties of spherical nanoparticles, will also have a number of advantages. Using the laser ablation method, we managed to obtain and characterize selenium nanorods (SeNrs) with a length of 1 μm and a diameter of 100 nm. Using fluorescence microscopy and inhibitory analysis, we were able to show that selenium nanorods cause the generation of Ca2+ signals in cortical astrocytes in an acute experiment through the mobilization of Ca2+ ions from the thapsigargin-sensitive pool of the endoplasmic reticulum. Chronic use of SeNrs leads to a change in the expression pattern of genes encoding proteins that regulate cell fate and protect astrocytes from ischemia-like conditions and reoxygenation through the inhibition of a global increase in the concentration of cytosolic calcium ([Ca2+]i). An important component of the cytoprotective effect of SeNrs during ischemia/reoxygenation is the induction of reactive A2-type astrogliosis in astrocytes, leading to an increase in both baseline and ischemia/reoxygenation-induced phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) activity and suppression of necrosis and apoptosis. The key components of this cytoprotective action of SeNrs are the actin-dependent process of endocytosis of nanoparticles into cells and activation of the Ca2+ signaling system of astrocytes.
Physicochemical and Functional Properties and Storage Stability of Chitosan–Starch Films Containing Micellar Nano/Microstructures with Turmeric and Hibiscus Extracts
Authors: Woszczak Liliana , Khachatryan Karen , Krystyjan Magdalena , Witczak Teresa , Witczak Mariusz , Gałkowska Dorota , Makarewicz Małgorzata , Khachatryan Gohar
Published: July 2023

The dynamic development of the food industry and the growing interest of consumers in innovative solutions that increase the comfort and quality of life push the industry towards seeking pioneering solutions in the field of food packaging. Intelligent and active packaging, which affects the quality and durability of food products and allows one to determine their freshness, is still a modern concept. The aim of our study was to obtain two types of films based on chitosan and starch with micellar nanostructures containing extracts from turmeric rhizomes and hibiscus flowers. The presence of spherical nanostructures was confirmed using a scanning electron microscope. The structural and optical properties of the obtained composites were characterised by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), UltraViolet-Visible (UV-VIS), and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirmed the presence of spherical micellar structures with a size of about 800 nm in the obtained biocomposites. The presence of nano-/microstructures containing extracts affected the mechanical properties of the composites: it weakened the strength of the films and improved their elongation at break (EAB). Films with nano-/microparticles were characterised by a higher water content compared to the control sample and lower solubility, and they showed stronger hydrophilic properties. Preliminary storage tests showed that the obtained biocomposites are sensitive to changes occurring during the storage of products such as cheese or fish. In addition, it was found that the film with the addition of turmeric extract inhibited the growth of microorganisms during storage. The results suggest that the obtained bionanocomposites can be used as active and/or intelligent materials.
Dysregulated Signalling Pathways Driving Anticancer Drug Resistance
Authors: Bou Antoun Nauf , Chioni Athina-Myrto
Published: July 2023

One of the leading causes of death worldwide, in both men and women, is cancer. Despite the significant development in therapeutic strategies, the inevitable emergence of drug resistance limits the success and impedes the curative outcome. Intrinsic and acquired resistance are common mechanisms responsible for cancer relapse. Several factors crucially regulate tumourigenesis and resistance, including physical barriers, tumour microenvironment (TME), heterogeneity, genetic and epigenetic alterations, the immune system, tumour burden, growth kinetics and undruggable targets. Moreover, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), Notch, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), integrin-extracellular matrix (ECM), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), phosphoinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR), wingless-related integration site (Wnt/β-catenin), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) and RAS/RAF/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathways are some of the key players that have a pivotal role in drug resistance mechanisms. To guide future cancer treatments and improve results, a deeper comprehension of drug resistance pathways is necessary. This review covers both intrinsic and acquired resistance and gives a comprehensive overview of recent research on mechanisms that enable cancer cells to bypass barriers put up by treatments, and, like “satellite navigation”, find alternative routes by which to carry on their “journey” to cancer progression.
Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis of Urinary Extracellular Vesicle Proteins as a New Challenge in Laboratory Medicine
Authors: Sałaga-Zaleska Kornelia , Kuchta Agnieszka , Bzoma Beata , Chyła-Danił Gabriela , Safianowska Anna , Płoska Agata , Kalinowski Leszek , Dębska-Ślizień Alicja , Jankowski Maciej
Published: July 2023

Urinary extracellular vesicle (uEV) proteins may be used as specific markers of kidney damage in various pathophysiological conditions. The nanoparticle-tracking analysis (NTA) appears to be the most useful method for the analysis of uEVs due to its ability to analyze particles below 300 nm. The NTA method has been used to measure the size and concentration of uEVs and also allows for a deeper analysis of uEVs based on their protein composition using fluorescence measurements. However, despite much interest in the clinical application of uEVs, their analysis using the NTA method is poorly described and requires meticulous sample preparation, experimental adjustment of instrument settings, and above all, an understanding of the limitations of the method. In the present work, we demonstrate the usefulness of an NTA. We also present problems encountered during analysis with possible solutions: the choice of sample dilution, the method of the presentation and comparison of results, photobleaching, and the adjustment of instrument settings for a specific analysis. We show that the NTA method appears to be a promising method for the determination of uEVs. However, it is important to be aware of potential problems that may affect the results.
Separation of Anionic Chlorinated Dyes from Polluted Aqueous Streams Using Ionic Liquids and Their Subsequent Recycling
Authors: Kamenická Barbora , Švec Petr , Weidlich Tomáš
Published: July 2023

The effect of ionic liquids on the separation of chlorinated anionic dyes such as Mordant Blue 9 (MB9) or Acid Yellow 17 (AY17) via ion exchange has been investigated in model aqueous solutions that simulate wastewater from the textile dyeing industry. The effect of ionic liquids chemical nature on the separation efficiency of mentioned dyes has been compared. It was found that especially ionic liquid based on quaternary ammonium salts comprising two or three long alkyl chains bound to the quaternary ammonium nitrogen (typically benzalkonium chloride or Aliquat 336) are very effective for the separation of both studied MB9 and AY17 from aqueous solution. In addition, the innovative technique has been developed for the reactivation of spent ionic liquids which is based on the chemical reduction of the formed ion pairs using NaBH4/NiSO4, NaBH4/Na2S2O5 or Raney Al-Ni alloy/NaOH. Thus, only NaBH4/NiSO4 in co-action with Al-Ni alloy enables both effective reduction of the azo bond and subsequent hydrodechlorination of emerging chlorinated aromatic amines. The efficiency of tested dyes separation or regeneration of ion pairs was evaluated by determination of the absorbance at wavelength of the maximum absorbance, of the Chemical Oxidation Demand (COD), and of the Adsorbables Organically bound Halogens (AOX). The formation of ion pairs or products of reduction and hydrodechlorination of these ion pairs has been studied using the 1H NMR and LC-MS techniques.
Contemporary Antiretroviral Therapy Dysregulates Iron Transport and Augments Mitochondrial Dysfunction in HIV-Infected Human Microglia and Neural-Lineage Cells
Authors: Kaur Harpreet , Minchella Paige , Alvarez-Carbonell David , Purandare Neeraja , Nagampalli Vijay K. , Blankenberg Daniel , Hulgan Todd , Gerschenson Mariana , Karn Jonathan , Aras Siddhesh , Kallianpur Asha R.
Published: July 2023

HIV-associated cognitive dysfunction during combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) involves mitochondrial dysfunction, but the impact of contemporary cART on chronic metabolic changes in the brain and in latent HIV infection is unclear. We interrogated mitochondrial function in a human microglia (hμglia) cell line harboring inducible HIV provirus and in SH-SY5Y cells after exposure to individual antiretroviral drugs or cART, using the MitoStress assay. cART-induced changes in protein expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial DNA copy number, and cellular iron were also explored. Finally, we evaluated the ability of ROS scavengers or plasmid-mediated overexpression of the antioxidant iron-binding protein, Fth1, to reverse mitochondrial defects. Contemporary antiretroviral drugs, particularly bictegravir, depressed multiple facets of mitochondrial function by 20–30%, with the most pronounced effects in latently infected HIV+ hμglia and SH-SY5Y cells. Latently HIV-infected hμglia exhibited upregulated glycolysis. Increases in total and/or mitochondrial ROS, mitochondrial DNA copy number, and cellular iron accompanied mitochondrial defects in hμglia and SH-SY5Y cells. In SH-SY5Y cells, cART reduced mitochondrial iron–sulfur-cluster-containing supercomplex and subunit expression and increased Nox2 expression. Fth1 overexpression or pre-treatment with N-acetylcysteine prevented cART-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Contemporary cART impairs mitochondrial bioenergetics in hμglia and SH-SY5Y cells, partly through cellular iron accumulation; some effects differ by HIV latency.
Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in COVID-19: Modulation and Approaches for Prevention and Therapy
Authors: Martín Giménez Virna Margarita , Modrego Javier , Gómez-Garre Dulcenombre , Manucha Walter , de las Heras Natalia
Published: July 2023

Inflammation and oxidative stress are critical underlying mechanisms associated with COVID-19 that contribute to the complications and clinical deterioration of patients. Additionally, COVID-19 has the potential to alter the composition of patients’ gut microbiota, characterized by a decreased abundance of bacteria with probiotic effects. Interestingly, certain strains of these bacteria produce metabolites that can target the S protein of other coronaviruses, thereby preventing their transmission and harmful effects. At the same time, the presence of gut dysbiosis can exacerbate inflammation and oxidative stress, creating a vicious cycle that perpetuates the disease. Furthermore, it is widely recognized that the gut microbiota can metabolize various foods and drugs, producing by-products that may have either beneficial or detrimental effects. In this regard, a decrease in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate, can influence the overall inflammatory and oxidative state, affecting the prevention, treatment, or worsening of COVID-19. This review aims to explore the current evidence regarding gut dysbiosis in patients with COVID-19, its association with inflammation and oxidative stress, the molecular mechanisms involved, and the potential of gut microbiota modulation in preventing and treating SARS-CoV-2 infection. Given that gut microbiota has demonstrated high adaptability, exploring ways and strategies to maintain good intestinal health, as well as an appropriate diversity and composition of the gut microbiome, becomes crucial in the battle against COVID-19.
Management of Hardware Vulnerabilities in the Life Cycle Stages of Microprocessors and Computers
Authors: Bychkov Ignat , Mikhailova Irina , Korenev Pavel , Pikov Vitaliy , Ryapukhin Anatoly
Published: July 2023

This article discusses the topical issues of managing information security vulnerabilities in the life cycle stages of processors and computer equipment. An analysis of the experience of identifying vulnerabilities in the course of the joint design of the processor, computing module and computing complex was carried out. A number of actions have been developed and presented to ensure the control of hardware vulnerabilities in the development stage. The use of the binary translation technology of the Elbrus platform is proposed to prevent the execution of malicious software. A method has been developed to eliminate vulnerabilities in computer equipment for automated systems used for various purposes by using the Lintel binary translation system component. An experiment is described, the purpose of which was to successfully exploit the Meltdown vulnerability on a computer with an Elbrus processor. The experiment showed that, due to the peculiarities of the microarchitecture of Elbrus processors, the exploitation of Meltdown-type vulnerabilities is impossible.
Crescentic Glomerulonephritis Due to Enterococcal Endocarditis
Authors: Klarić Dragan , Žutelija Marta , Šenjug Petar , Klarić Marta , Galešić Ljubanović Danica Galešić
Published: July 2023

Glomerulonephritis following an enterococcal endocarditis is an extremely rare and life-threatening condition. We present the case of a 71-year-old patient with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis following enterococcal endocarditis after surgical replacement of the aortic valve. The combination of antibiotic therapy, corticosteroid therapy and haemodialysis led to an improvement in renal function; however, the severity of cardiac deterioration resulted in a fatal outcome.
When a Dual Marker Acts as a Paucal Marker: The Case of the Dual -e:n in Northern Rural Jordanian Arabic
Authors: Jaradat Abdulazeez
Published: July 2023

In this research paper, based on an acceptability judgment task, it is demonstrated that dual morphology can denote paucity in northern rural Jordanian Arabic (NRJA), asserting on Blanc and Brustad’s observation that some Arabic varieties have pseudo-dual (or unspecified dual), i.e., it may refer to numbers above two. It is shown that the dual morpheme -e:n in this dialect does not only refer to an exact (dual) number, but also to an approximative (paucal) number. This implies that the paucal category, which typically evolves from the plural category in natural languages, may likewise develop from the dual category. On this basis, the paucal is peculiar in Arabic, as it can be derived by (1) plural morphology as in Standard Arabic or (2) dual morphology, as in NRJA. In addition, the paper shows how the morphosyntax of the dual in NRJA yields either dual or paucal reading. Adopting Harbour’s number theory where the components of a number system are predicted by a set of bivalent number features under the number head #0, I show that the bivalent feature [±minimal] in the morphosyntax of the dual in NRJA is crucial to derive its two interpretations: [+minimal] yields the exact (dual) reading, whereas [-minimal] yields the approximative (paucal) reading. This analysis is expected to have intralingual usefulness. Specifically, it could be employed to plausibly derive the paucal category that is based on the dual category in other Arabic varieties, as descriptively reported in Blanc and Brustad’s studies. Furthermore, the observation that the dual category is the source of the paucal category has cross-linguistic implications. Particularly, it implies that the paucal category does not necessarily require the plural category to be derived in a language. Additionally, this observation asserts that languages tend to use lower numerals to assign a paucal reading to them, as is the case in French (e.g., deux ou trois).
A Double Cross-Linked Injectable Hydrogel Derived from Muscular Decellularized Matrix Promotes Myoblast Proliferation and Myogenic Differentiation
Authors: Huang Zhao , Cheng Jianwen , Su Wei
Published: July 2023

Injectable hydrogels possess tremendous merits for use in muscle regeneration; however, they still lack intrinsic biological cues (such as the proliferation and differentiation of myogenic cells), thus considerably restricting their potential for therapeutic use. Herein, we developed a double cross-linked injectable hydrogel composed of methacrylamidated oxidized hyaluronic acid (MOHA) and muscular decellularized matrix (MDM). The chemical composition of the hydrogel was confirmed using 1H NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. To achieve cross-linking, the aldehyde groups in MOHA were initially reacted with the amino groups in MDM through a Schiff-based reaction. This relatively weak cross-linking provided the MOHA/MDM hydrogel with satisfactory injectability. Furthermore, the methacrylation of MOHA facilitated a second cross-linking mechanism via UV irradiation, resulting in improved gelation ability, biomechanical properties, and swelling performance. When C2C12 myogenic cells were loaded into the hydrogel, our results showed that the addition of MDM significantly enhanced myoblast proliferation compared to the MOHA hydrogel, as demonstrated by live/dead staining and Cell Counting Kit-8 assay after seven days of in vitro cultivation. In addition, gene expression analysis using quantitative polymerase chain reaction indicated that the MOHA/MDM hydrogel promoted myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells more effectively than the MOHA hydrogel, as evidenced by elevated expression levels of myogenin, troponin T, and MHC in the MOHA/MDM hydrogel group. Moreover, after four to eight weeks of implantation in a full-thickness abdominal wall-defect model, the MOHA/MDM hydrogel could promote the reconstruction and repair of functional skeletal muscle tissue with enhanced tetanic force and tensile strength. This study provides a new double cross-linked injectable hydrogel for use in muscular tissue engineering.