bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful Application of Team Resource Management in Scrub Typhus Infection with Septic Shock
Authors: Chen I-Hung , Fong Cher-Min , Chang Hsing-Hua Stella , Lin Jen-Hsien
Published: August 2022

The fatality rate of scrub typhus infection with septic shock is quite high if timely and correct diagnosis and treatment are not obtained. There are few studies in the literature on the subject of holding TRM conferences to discuss the condition and reach a consensus on treatment. A TRM conference has the significance of early intervention by the medical team and consensus on therapy from the medical doctors and family members. We report the case of scrub typhus infection with septic shock. On the day the patient was hospitalized, the medical team held a TRM conference and invited family members to attend. We found that the eschar on the patient may be related to scrub typhus, which was later confirmed by a positive Weil-Felix test and PCR analysis. Under the consensus treatment, the patient’s condition improved considerably within the next day. The most significant difference between the TRM conference and the clinical specialist’s consultation is that it can quickly narrow the cognitive gap between doctors and family members and reach a consensus on the patient’s therapy strategy, truly avoid medical disputes, and effectively share the stress of attending physician. In this case report, we highlight the significance of the TRM conference.
Secular Trends of Mortality and Years of Life Lost Due to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Wuhan, China from 2010 to 2019: Age-Period-Cohort Analysis
Authors: Guo Yan , Bai Jianjun , Zhang Xiaoxia , Jin Qiman , Liu Yijun , Yu Chuanhua
Published: August 2022

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been an important public health issue in China. This study aimed to analyze the temporal trends in mortality and years of life lost (YLL) from COPD, and explore the effects of age, period, and cohort in Wuhan, China from 2010 to 2019. Methods: Data were collected from the cause of death surveillance system in Wuhan. Age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), age-standardized YLL rate (ASYR) and the estimated annual percent changes (EAPC) were calculated to evaluate the temporal trends. The age-period-cohort (APC) model was adopted to estimate the age, period, and cohort effects. Results: From 2010 to 2019, COPD accounted for 26,051.15 deaths and 394,659.58 person years YLL in Wuhan. Recently, the death burden of COPD in Wuhan has somewhat improved, especially after 2015, with declining trends in ASMR and ASYR. Additionally, the ASMR and ASYR of COPD was higher in males. And these of males showed the overall upward trends, with EAPCs of 1.06 (0.13, 2.00) and 1.21 (0.12, 2.31), respectively, while females showed downward trends since 2010. According to APC model, the age effect of COPD increased with age, and the cohort risk ratios (RRs) followed the overall downward trends. Period RRs for the Wuhan population generally tended to rise and then fall, with females showing a clear downward trend after 2015, while period RRs for males maintained an upward trend throughout the study period. Conclusions: Recently, the death burden from COPD in Wuhan has improved, especially after 2015, with improvements in ASMR, ASYR and period RRs. Sex differences still exist. COPD posed a greater threat to the elderly, especially males. Public health managers should continue to execute more targeted programs to lessen the death burden of COPD in Wuhan.
Assessment of the Emotional State of Parents of Children Starting the Vojta Therapy in the Context of the Physical Activity—A Pilot Study
Authors: Strojek Kinga , Wójtowicz Dorota , Kowalska Joanna
Published: August 2022

The aim of the study was to assess the emotional state of parents at the moment of starting therapy for their children using the Vojta method in the context of the physical activity undertaken by the parents. The study involved 68 parents (37 mothers and 31 fathers) of children with central coordination disorders (CCD) presenting for consultation and therapy using the Vojta method. The authors’ questionnaires, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), and the Inventory to Measure Coping Strategies with Stress (Mini-COPE) were used. As many as 84% of mothers and 77% of fathers presented high level of perceived stress. Comparative analysis showed a statistically significant difference in anxiety and life satisfaction between the groups of mothers and fathers studied. Taking declared physical activity into account, there was a statistically significant difference in stress and anxiety in the mothers’ group and a statistically significant difference in mood and life satisfaction in the fathers’ group. Promoting physical activity among parents of children with CCD can be helpful in maintaining better psycho-physical conditions and can also be a good tool in combating stress in difficult situations, such as the illness and therapy of a child.
Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients: A Retrospective Italian Cohort Study in Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome
Authors: Compagno Mirko , Navarra Assunta , Campogiani Laura , Coppola Luigi , Rossi Benedetta , Iannetta Marco , Malagnino Vincenzo , Parisi Saverio G. , Mariotti Benedetta , Cerretti Raffaella , Arcese William , Goletti Delia , Andreoni Massimo , Sarmati Loredana
Published: August 2022

The results of tuberculosis (TB) screening and reactivation in a cohort of 323 adult patients undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from 2015 to 2019 at the University Hospital of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy, were reported. A total of 260 patients, 59 (18.3%) autologous and 264 (81.7%) allogeneic transplants, underwent Interferon Release (IFN)-γ (IGRA) test screening: 228 (87.7%) were negative, 11 (4.2%) indeterminate and 21 (8.1%) positive. Most of the IGRA-positive patients were of Italian origin (95.2%) and significantly older than the IGRA-negative (p < 0.001); 22 (8.5%) patients underwent a second IGRA during the first year after transplantation, and 1 tested positive for IGRA. Significantly lower monocyte (p = 0.044) and lymphocyte counts (p = 0.009) were detected in IGRA negative and IGRA indeterminate patients, respectively. All latent TB patients underwent isoniazid prophylaxis, and none of them progressed to active TB over a median follow-up period of 63.4 months. A significant decline in TB screening practices was shown from 2015 to 2019, and approximately 19% of patients were not screened. In conclusion, 8.1% of our HSCT population had LTBI, all received INH treatment, and no reactivation of TB was observed during the follow-up period. In addition, 19% escaped screening and 8% of these came from countries with a medium TB burden, therefore at higher risk of possible development of TB.
Play–Sleep Nexus in Indonesian Preschool Children before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Fauziah Puji Yanti , Kusumawardani Erma , Nopembri Soni , Mulyawan Rizki , Susilowati Indri Hapsari , Nugraha Susiana , Alimoeso Sudibyo , Hasiholan Bonardo Prayogo , Fauzi Lukman , Cahyati Widya Hary , Rahayu Tandiyo , Chua Terence Buan Kiong , Chia Michael Yong Hwa
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed Indonesians’ behaviors and has had an impact on many facets of daily life. People’s lives are becoming increasingly dependent on digital technologies, which is a phenomenon with conflicting effects on people’s health and happiness. This cross-sectional study focused on one such influence, namely, how the shift from the period before to during COVID-19 has affected children’s playtime and sleep duration. As part of a multicenter study, 618 adult caregivers (parents, family members, or babysitters) who visited the kindergarten in question on behalf of preschool children aged 2–5 years (4.04 ± 1.39) were surveyed on the children’s play and sleep habits before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia, particularly Java Island (before pandemic, N = 309; during pandemic, N = 309). ANOVA was used for a statistical analysis to describe the difference between groups and within time collections. Significant favorable relationships were found between pre-pandemic and post-pandemic playtime and sleeping time on weekdays, weekends, and averaged weekday-weekend (r = 0.437; 0.180 and 0.321, all p < 0.05) were detected. Before the pandemic, children’s playtime (4.11 vs. 3.55 h) and sleep duration (10.92 vs. 10.70 h) were significantly greater on the weekend than on the weekday (p < 0.05) but not during the pandemic (playtime: 3.48 vs. 3.45 h and sleep duration: 10.83 vs. 10.80 h; all p > 0.05). The COVID-19 pandemic had no impact on sleep duration or playtime in Javanese preschool children. Efforts should be intensified to promote the value of playtime and sleep duration among children in this age range so that the future of Indonesian children’s can be ensured.
High Education and University Teaching and Learning Processes: Soft Skills
Authors: Ragusa Antonio , Caggiano Valeria , Trigueros Ramos Rubén , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , Gentil-Gutiérrez Ana , Bastos Susana Adelina Moreira Carvalho , González-Santos Josefa , Santamaría-Peláez Mirian
Published: August 2022

In the era of globalization and technology, society demands young generations of citizens able to work in a kind of environment characterized by complexity and diversity. Therefore, the education system faces a new kind of challenge, as graduates are reported to need transversal skills, which are unlikely to be learned through traditional classroom teaching. The overall aim of this article is to examine the needs for these skills and their acquisition by higher education teachers to cope with the evolving European labour market of the 2020s. The article envisions the importance of soft skills in the teaching profession. The empirical part consists of a comparative study with Italian and Portuguese teachers, highlighting the status of a set of crucial soft skills (assertiveness, networking skills, teamwork, sensitivity, socialization, action-orientation, ability to work under pressure and social desirability).
Effects of pH and Metal Ions on the Hydrothermal Treatment of Penicillin: Kinetic, Pathway, and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Zhang Qiaopan , Niu Dongze , Ni Shensheng , An Wenying , Li Chunyu , Huhe Taoli , Wang Chongqing , Jiang Xingmei , Ren Jianjun
Published: August 2022

Antibiotic residues lead to the risk of resistance gene enrichment, which is the main reason why penicillin mycelial dreg (PMD) is defined as hazardous waste. Hydrothermal treatment (HT) is an effective method to treat penicillin mycelial dreg, but the degradation mechanism of penicillin is unclear. In the study, we researched the effects of pH (4–10) at 80–100 °C and metal ions (Mn2+, Fe2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+) at several concentrations on the HT of penicillin, identified the degradation products (DPs) under different conditions, and evaluated the antibacterial activity of hydrothermally treated samples. The results show that penicillin degradation kinetics highly consistent with pseudo-first-order model (R2 = 0.9447–0.9999). The degradation rates (k) at pH = 4, 7, and 10 were 0.1603, 0.0039, and 0.0485 min−1, indicating acidic conditions were more conducive to penicillin degradation. Among the four tested metal ions, Zn2+ had the most significant catalytic effect. Adding 5 mg·L−1 Zn2+ caused 100% degradation rate at pH = 7 after HT for 60 min. Six degradation products (DPs) with low mass-to-charge (m/z ≤ 335) were detected under acidic condition. However, only two and three DPs were observed in the samples catalyzed by Zn2+ and alkali, respectively, and penilloic acid (m/z = 309) was the main DPs under these conditions. Furthermore, no antibacterial activity to Bacillus pumilus was detected in the medium with up to 50% addition of the treated samples under acidic condition. Even though acid, alkali, and some metal ions can improve the degradation ability of penicillin, it was found that the most effective way for removing its anti-bacterial activity was under the acidic condition. Therefore, resistance residue indicates the amount of additive in the process of resource utilization, and avoids the enrichment of resistance genes.
Distribution Pattern and Influencing Factors of Heavy Metal Resistance Genes in the Yellow River Sediments of Henan Section
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Kuangjia , Tong Minghui , Xia Yangchun , Cui Yongxin , Liu Ziyi , Chen Qi , Li Qidi , Hu Feiyue , Yang Fengxia
Published: August 2022

The transformation of heavy metal resistance genes (MRGs) in the environment has attracted increasing attention in recent years. However, few studies have reported the MRG content in the Yellow River, one of the main irrigation water sources in the North China Plain. In this study, we quantified MRG abundance by a metagenomic approach, and assessed the influence on MRGs of both bioavailable and total heavy metal (HM) content. The results indicate that Cu-resistant genes are the most common genes, and the prevalence of arsM needs more attention. Comamonadaceae is the dominant family in the Yellow River, and the presence of organic pollutants may contribute to the prevalence of Vicinamibacteraceae, Nocardioidaceae, and Flavobacteriacea. The results of the Mantel test and Spearman analysis indicate that both the bioavailable fractions and total content of HMs could have little influence on MRGs. Network analysis results indicate that some dominant bacteria could be the potential hosts of some prevalent MRGs, which may exert an adverse impact on human health.
The Oncobiome in Gastroenteric and Genitourinary Cancers
Authors: D’Antonio Domenica Lucia , Marchetti Simona , Pignatelli Pamela , Piattelli Adriano , Curia Maria Cristina
Published: August 2022

Early evidence suggests a strong association of microorganisms with several human cancers, and great efforts have been made to understand the pathophysiology underlying microbial carcinogenesis. Bacterial dysbiosis causes epithelial barrier failure, immune dysregulation and/or genotoxicity and, consequently, creates a tumor-permissive microenvironment. The majority of the bacteria in our body reside in the gastrointestinal tract, known as gut microbiota, which represents a complex and delicate ecosystem. Gut microbes can reach the pancreas, stomach and colon via the bloodstream. Oral bacterial translocations can also occur. In the stomach, pancreas and colon, low microbial diversity is associated with cancer, in particular with a bad prognosis. The urogenital tract also harbors unique microbiota, distinct from the gut microbiota, which might have a role in the urinary and female/male reproductive cancers’ pathogenesis. In healthy women, the majority of bacteria reside in the vagina and cervix and unlike other mucosal sites, the vaginal microbiota exhibits low microbial diversity. Genital dysbiosis might have an active role in the development and/or progression of gynecological malignancies through mechanisms including modulation of oestrogen metabolism. Urinary dysbiosis may influence the pathogenesis of bladder cancer and prostate cancer in males. Modulation of the microbiome via pre, pro and postbiotics, fecal or vaginal microbiota transplantation and engineering bacteria might prove useful in improving cancer treatment response and quality of life. Elucidating the complex host-microbiome interactions will result in prevention and therapeutic efficacy interventions.
Hierarchical Nanoflowers of MgFe2O4, Bentonite and B-,P- Co-Doped Graphene Oxide as Adsorbent and Photocatalyst: Optimization of Parameters by Box–Behnken Methodology
Authors: Kaur Ubhi Manpreet , Kaur Manpreet , Singh Dhanwinder , Javed Mohammed , Oliveira Aderbal C. , Kumar Garg Vijayendra , Sharma Virender K.
Published: August 2022

In the present study, nanocomposites having hierarchical nanoflowers (HNFs) -like morphology were synthesized by ultra-sonication approach. HNFs were ternary composite of MgFe2O4 and bentonite with boron-, phosphorous- co-doped graphene oxide (BPGO). The HNFs were fully characterized using different analytical tools viz. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometry and Mössbauer analysis. Transmission electron micrographs showed that chiffon-like BPGO nanosheets were wrapped on the MgFe2O4-bentonite surface, resulting in a porous flower-like morphology. The red-shift in XPS binding energies of HNFs as compared to MgFe2O4-bentoniteand BPGO revealed the presence of strong interactions between the two materials. Box–Behnken statistical methodology was employed to optimize adsorptive and photocatalytic parameters using Pb(II) and malathion as model pollutants, respectively. HNFs exhibited excellent adsorption ability for Pb(II) ions, with the Langmuir adsorption capacity of 654 mg g−1 at optimized pH 6.0 and 96% photocatalytic degradation of malathion at pH 9.0 as compared to MgFe2O4-bentonite and BPGO. Results obtained in this study clearly indicate that HNFs are promising nanocomposite for the removal of inorganic and organic contaminants from the aqueous solutions.
Molecular Changes in Relation to Alcohol Consumption and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sasaki-Tanaka Reina , Ray Ranjit , Moriyama Mitsuhiko , Ray Ratna B. , Kanda Tatsuo
Published: August 2022

Alcohol is the one of the major causes of liver diseases and promotes liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In hepatocytes, alcohol is converted to acetaldehyde, which causes hepatic steatosis, cellular apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, peroxidation, production of cytokines and reduces immune surveillance. Endotoxin and lipopolysaccharide produced from intestinal bacteria also enhance the production of cytokines. The development of hepatic fibrosis and the occurrence of HCC are induced by these alcohol metabolites. Several host genetic factors have recently been identified in this process. Here, we reviewed the molecular mechanism associated with HCC in alcoholic liver disease.
mPR-Specific Actions Influence Maintenance of the Blood–Brain Barrier (BBB)
Authors: Abou-Fadel Johnathan , Jiang Xiaoting , Padarti Akhil , Goswami Dinesh G. , Smith Mark , Grajeda Brian , Bhalli Muaz , Le Alexander , Walker Wendy E. , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2022

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are characterized by abnormally dilated intracranial microvascular sinusoids that result in increased susceptibility to hemorrhagic stroke. It has been demonstrated that three CCM proteins (CCM1, CCM2, and CCM3) form the CCM signaling complex (CSC) to mediate angiogenic signaling. Disruption of the CSC will result in hemorrhagic CCMs, a consequence of compromised blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity. Due to their characteristically incomplete penetrance, the majority of CCM mutation carriers (presumed CCM patients) are largely asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, the disease has typically reached a clinical stage of focal hemorrhage with irreversible brain damage. We recently reported that the CSC couples both classic (nuclear; nPRs) and nonclassic (membrane; mPRs) progesterone (PRG)-receptors-mediated signaling within the CSC-mPRs-PRG (CmP) signaling network in nPR(−) breast cancer cells. In this report, we demonstrate that depletion of any of the three CCM genes or treatment with mPR-specific PRG actions (PRG/mifepristone) results in the disruption of the CmP signaling network, leading to increased permeability in the nPR(−) endothelial cells (ECs) monolayer in vitro. Finally, utilizing our in vivo hemizygous Ccm mutant mice models, we demonstrate that depletion of any of the three CCM genes, in combination with mPR-specific PRG actions, is also capable of leading to defective homeostasis of PRG in vivo and subsequent BBB disruption, allowing us to identify a specific panel of etiological blood biomarkers associated with BBB disruption. To our knowledge, this is the first report detailing the etiology to predict the occurrence of a disrupted BBB, an indication of early hemorrhagic events.
Combined Treatment with Curcumin and Ferulic Acid Suppressed the Aβ-Induced Neurotoxicity More than Curcumin and Ferulic Acid Alone
Authors: Ohashi Hideaki , Tsuji Mayumi , Oguchi Tatsunori , Momma Yutaro , Nohara Tetsuhito , Ito Naohito , Yamamoto Ken , Nagata Miki , Kimura Atsushi Michael , Kiuchi Yuji , Ono Kenjiro
Published: August 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to progressive cognitive decline. Several effective natural components have been identified for the treatment of AD. However, it is difficult to obtain conclusive evidence on the safety and effectiveness of natural components, because a variety of factors are associated with the progression of AD pathology. We hypothesized that a therapeutic effect could be achieved by combining multiple ingredients with different efficacies. The purpose of this study was thus to evaluate a combination treatment of curcumin (Cur) and ferulic acid (FA) for amyloid-β (Aβ)-induced neuronal cytotoxicity. The effect of Cur or FA on Aβ aggregation using thioflavin T assay was confirmed to be inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by Cur single or Cur + FA combination treatment. The effects of Cur + FA on the cytotoxicity of human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells induced by Aβ exposure were an increase in cell viability, a decrease in ROS and mitochondrial ROS, and repair of membrane damage. Combination treatment showed an overall higher protective effect than treatment with Cur or FA alone. These results suggest that the combined action mechanisms of Cur and FA may be effective in preventing and suppressing the progression of AD.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Liver Tissues and Serum in db/db Mice
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wu Xiumei , Xu Mengyun , Yue Tong , Ling Ping , Fang Tingyu , Luo Sihui , Xu Suowen , Weng Jianping
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects one-quarter of individuals worldwide. Liver biopsy, as the current reliable method for NAFLD evaluation, causes low patient acceptance because of the nature of invasive sampling. Therefore, sensitive non-invasive serum biomarkers are urgently needed. Results: The serum gene ontology (GO) classification and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed the DEPs enriched in pathways including JAK-STAT and FoxO. GO analysis indicated that serum DEPs were mainly involved in the cellular process, metabolic process, response to stimulus, and biological regulation. Hepatic proteomic KEGG analysis revealed the DEPs were mainly enriched in the PPAR signaling pathway, retinol metabolism, glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, fatty acid elongation, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, glutathione metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. GO analysis revealed that DEPs predominantly participated in cellular, biological regulation, multicellular organismal, localization, signaling, multi-organism, and immune system processes. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) implied diverse clusters of the DEPs. Besides, the paralleled changes of the common upregulated and downregulated DEPs existed in both the liver and serum were validated in the mRNA expression of NRP1, MUP3, SERPINA1E, ALPL, and ALDOB as observed in our proteomic screening. Methods: We conducted hepatic and serum proteomic analysis based on the leptin-receptor-deficient mouse (db/db), a well-established diabetic mouse model with overt obesity and NAFLD. The results show differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in hepatic and serum proteomic analysis. A parallel reaction monitor (PRM) confirmed the authenticity of the selected DEPs. Conclusion: These results are supposed to offer sensitive non-invasive serum biomarkers for diabetes and NAFLD.
Chitosan-Gelatin Films Cross-Linked with Dialdehyde Cellulose Nanocrystals as Potential Materials for Wound Dressings
Authors: Wegrzynowska-Drzymalska Katarzyna , Mlynarczyk Dariusz T. , Chelminiak-Dudkiewicz Dorota , Kaczmarek Halina , Goslinski Tomasz , Ziegler-Borowska Marta
Published: August 2022

In this study, thin chitosan-gelatin biofilms cross-linked with dialdehyde cellulose nanocrystals for dressing materials were received. Two types of dialdehyde cellulose nanocrystals from fiber (DNCL) and microcrystalline cellulose (DAMC) were obtained by periodate oxidation. An ATR-FTIR analysis confirmed the selective oxidation of cellulose nanocrystals with the creation of a carbonyl group at 1724 cm−1. A higher degree of cross-linking was obtained in chitosan-gelatin biofilms with DNCL than with DAMC. An increasing amount of added cross-linkers resulted in a decrease in the apparent density value. The chitosan-gelatin biofilms cross-linked with DNCL exhibited a higher value of roughness parameters and antioxidant activity compared with materials cross-linked with DAMC. The cross-linking process improved the oxygen permeability and anti-inflammatory properties of both measurement series. Two samples cross-linked with DNCL achieved an ideal water vapor transition rate for wound dressings, CS-Gel with 10% and 15% addition of DNCL—8.60 and 9.60 mg/cm2/h, respectively. The swelling ability and interaction with human serum albumin (HSA) were improved for biofilms cross-linked with DAMC and DNCL. Significantly, the films cross-linked with DAMC were characterized by lower toxicity. These results confirmed that chitosan-gelatin biofilms cross-linked with DNCL and DAMC had improved properties for possible use in wound dressings.
Comparative Physiological and Transcriptomic Analyses of Two Contrasting Pepper Genotypes under Salt Stress Reveal Complex Salt Tolerance Mechanisms in Seedlings
Authors: Zhang Tao , Sun Kaile , Chang Xiaoke , Ouyang Zhaopeng , Meng Geng , Han Yanan , Shen Shunshan , Yao Qiuju , Piao Fengzhi , Wang Yong
Published: August 2022

As a glycophyte plant, pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is widely cultivated worldwide, but its growth is susceptible to salinity damage, especially at the seedling stage. Here, we conducted a study to determine the physiological and transcriptional differences between two genotype seedlings (P300 and 323F3) with contrasting tolerance under salt stress. The P300 seedlings were more salt-tolerant and had higher K+ contents, higher antioxidase activities, higher compatible solutes, and lower Na+ contents in both their roots and their leaves than the 323F3 seedlings. During RNA-seq analysis of the roots, more up-regulated genes and fewer down-regulated genes were identified between salt-treated P300 seedlings and the controls than between salt-treated 323F3 and the controls. Many ROS-scavenging genes and several SOS pathway genes were significantly induced by salt stress and exhibited higher expressions in the salt-treated roots of the P300 seedlings than those of 323F3 seedlings. Moreover, biosynthesis of the unsaturated fatty acids pathway and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum pathway were deeply involved in the responses of P300 to salt stress, and most of the differentially expressed genes involved in the two pathways, including the genes that encode mega-6 fatty acid desaturases and heat-shock proteins, were up-regulated. We also found differences in the hormone synthesis and signaling pathway genes in both the P300 and 323F3 varieties under salt stress. Overall, our results provide valuable insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms that affect the salt tolerance of pepper seedlings, and present some candidate genes for improving salt tolerance in pepper.
Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of a Fragrant Japonica Rice Cultivar ‘Changxianggeng 1813’ Provides Insights into Genomic Variations between Fragrant and Non-Fragrant Japonica Rice
Authors: Lu Ruisen , Liu Jia , Wang Xuegang , Song Zhao , Ji Xiangdong , Li Naiwei , Ma Gang , Sun Xiaoqin
Published: August 2022

East Asia has an abundant resource of fragrant japonica rice that is gaining increasing interest among both consumers and producers. However, genomic resources and in particular complete genome sequences currently available for the breeding of fragrant japonica rice are still scarce. Here, integrating Nanopore long-read sequencing, Illumina short-read sequencing, and Hi-C methods, we presented a high-quality chromosome-level genome assembly (~378.78 Mb) for a new fragrant japonica cultivar ‘Changxianggeng 1813’, with 31,671 predicated protein-coding genes. Based on the annotated genome sequence, we demonstrated that it was the badh2-E2 type of deletion (a 7-bp deletion in the second exon) that caused fragrance in ‘Changxianggeng 1813’. Comparative genomic analyses revealed that multiple gene families involved in the abiotic stress response were expanded in the ‘Changxianggeng 1813’ genome, which further supported the previous finding that no generalized loss of abiotic stress tolerance associated with the fragrance phenotype. Although the ‘Changxianggeng 1813’ genome showed high genomic synteny with the genome of the non-fragrant japonica rice cultivar Nipponbare, a total of 289,970 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), 96,093 small insertion-deletion polymorphisms (InDels), and 8690 large structure variants (SVs, >1000 bp) were identified between them. Together, these genomic resources will be valuable for elucidating the mechanisms underlying economically important traits and have wide-ranging implications for genomics-assisted breeding in fragrant japonica rice.
Genetics behind Cerebral Disease with Ocular Comorbidity: Finding Parallels between the Brain and Eye Molecular Pathology
Authors: Chang Kao-Jung , Wu Hsin-Yu , Yarmishyn Aliaksandr , Li Cheng-Yi , Hsiao Yu-Jer , Chi Yi-Chun , Lo Tzu-Chen , Dai He-Jhen , Yang Yi-Chiang , Liu Ding-Hao , Hwang De-Kuang , Chen Shih-Jen , Hsu Chih-Chien , Kao Chung-Lan
Published: August 2022

Cerebral visual impairments (CVIs) is an umbrella term that categorizes miscellaneous visual defects with parallel genetic brain disorders. While the manifestations of CVIs are diverse and ambiguous, molecular diagnostics stand out as a powerful approach for understanding pathomechanisms in CVIs. Nevertheless, the characterization of CVI disease cohorts has been fragmented and lacks integration. By revisiting the genome-wide and phenome-wide association studies (GWAS and PheWAS), we clustered a handful of renowned CVIs into five ontology groups, namely ciliopathies (Joubert syndrome, Bardet–Biedl syndrome, Alstrom syndrome), demyelination diseases (multiple sclerosis, Alexander disease, Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease), transcriptional deregulation diseases (Mowat–Wilson disease, Pitt–Hopkins disease, Rett syndrome, Cockayne syndrome, X-linked alpha-thalassaemia mental retardation), compromised peroxisome disorders (Zellweger spectrum disorder, Refsum disease), and channelopathies (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder), and reviewed several mutation hotspots currently found to be associated with the CVIs. Moreover, we discussed the common manifestations in the brain and the eye, and collated animal study findings to discuss plausible gene editing strategies for future CVI correction.
The Role of Transcription Factor PPAR-γ in the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis, Skin Cells, and Immune Cells
Authors: Sobolev Vladimir V. , Tchepourina Ekaterina , Korsunskaya Irina M. , Geppe Natalia A. , Chebysheva Svetlana N. , Soboleva Anna G. , Mezentsev Alexandre
Published: August 2022

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor PPAR-γ is one of three PPAR nuclear receptors that act as ligand-activated transcription factors. In immune cells, the skin, and other organs, PPAR-γ regulates lipid, glucose, and amino acid metabolism. The receptor translates nutritional, pharmacological, and metabolic stimuli into the changes in gene expression. The activation of PPAR-γ promotes cell differentiation, reduces the proliferation rate, and modulates the immune response. In the skin, PPARs also contribute to the functioning of the skin barrier. Since we know that the route from identification to the registration of drugs is long and expensive, PPAR-γ agonists already approved for other diseases may also represent a high interest for psoriasis. In this review, we discuss the role of PPAR-γ in the activation, differentiation, and proliferation of skin and immune cells affected by psoriasis and in contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease. We also evaluate whether the agonists of PPAR-γ may become one of the therapeutic options to suppress the inflammatory response in lesional psoriatic skin and decrease the influence of comorbidities associated with psoriasis.
DOG1 as an Immunohistochemical Marker of Acinic Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fiorentino Vincenzo , Straccia Patrizia , Tralongo Pietro , Musarra Teresa , Pierconti Francesco , Martini Maurizio , Fadda Guido , Rossi Esther Diana , Larocca Luigi Maria
Published: August 2022

DOG1 is a transmembrane protein originally discovered on gastrointestinal stromal tumors and works as a calcium-activated chloride channel protein. There are a limited number of articles on the potential utility of this antibody in the diagnosis of salivary gland tumors in routine practice. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of DOG1 as an immunohistochemical marker in patients with salivary acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) through meta-analysis. A literature search was performed of the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for English-language studies published from January 2010 to September 2021. The literature search revealed 148 articles, of which 20 were included in the study. The overall rate of DOG1 expression in salivary acinic cell carcinoma was 55% (95% CI = 0.43–0.58). Although ACC is a challenging diagnosis, paying careful attention to the cytomorphological features in conjunction with DOG1 immunostaining can help to reach an accurate diagnosis.
Recent Advances in Hydroxyapatite-Based Biocomposites for Bone Tissue Regeneration in Orthopedics
Authors: Ielo Ileana , Calabrese Giovanna , De Luca Giovanna , Conoci Sabrina
Published: August 2022

Bone tissue is a nanocomposite consisting of an organic and inorganic matrix, in which the collagen component and the mineral phase are organized into complex and porous structures. Hydroxyapatite (HA) is the most used ceramic biomaterial since it mimics the mineral composition of the bone in vertebrates. However, this biomimetic material has poor mechanical properties, such as low tensile and compressive strength, which make it not suitable for bone tissue engineering (BTE). For this reason, HA is often used in combination with different polymers and crosslinkers in the form of composites to improve their mechanical properties and the overall performance of the implantable biomaterials developed for orthopedic applications. This review summarizes recent advances in HA-based biocomposites for bone regeneration, addressing the most widely employed inorganic matrices, the natural and synthetic polymers used as reinforcing components, and the crosslinkers added to improve the mechanical properties of the scaffolds. Besides presenting the main physical and chemical methods in tissue engineering applications, this survey shows that HA biocomposites are generally biocompatible, as per most in vitro and in vivo studies involving animal models and that the results of clinical studies on humans sometimes remain controversial. We believe this review will be helpful as introductory information for scientists studying HA materials in the biomedical field.
Cryogenic 3D Printing of w/o Pickering Emulsions Containing Bifunctional Drugs for Producing Hierarchically Porous Bone Tissue Engineering Scaffolds with Antibacterial Capability
Authors: Ye Xinliang , He Zhi , Liu Yuming , Liu Xiaoying , He Rouye , Deng Ganhang , Peng Ziqing , Liu Jiayu , Luo Zicai , He Xiaoling , Wang Xiang , Wu Jing , Huang Xiaowei , Zhang Jingying , Wang Chong
Published: August 2022

How to fabricate bone tissue engineering scaffolds with excellent antibacterial and bone regeneration ability has attracted increasing attention. Herein, we produced a hierarchical porous β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP)/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-polycaprolactone composite bone tissue engineering scaffold containing tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) through a micro-extrusion-based cryogenic 3D printing of Pickering emulsion inks, in which the hydrophobic silica (h-SiO2) nanoparticles were used as emulsifiers to stabilize composite Pickering emulsion inks. Hierarchically porous scaffolds with desirable antibacterial properties and bone-forming ability were obtained. Grid scaffolds with a macroscopic pore size of 250.03 ± 75.88 μm and a large number of secondary micropores with a diameter of 24.70 ± 15.56 μm can be fabricated through cryogenic 3D printing, followed by freeze-drying treatment, whereas the grid structure of scaffolds printed or dried at room temperature was discontinuous, and fewer micropores could be observed on the strut surface. Moreover, the impartment of β-TCP in scaffolds changed the shape and density of the micropores but endowed the scaffold with better osteoconductivity. Scaffolds loaded with TCH had excellent antibacterial properties and could effectively promote the adhesion, expansion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells afterward. The scaffolds loaded with TCH could realize the strategy to “kill bacteria first, then induce osteogenesis”. Such hierarchically porous scaffolds with abundant micropores, excellent antibacterial property, and improved bone-forming ability display great prospects in treating bone defects with infection.
Molecular Insights in Uterine Leiomyosarcoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sparić Radmila , Andjić Mladen , Babović Ivana , Nejković Lazar , Mitrović Milena , Štulić Jelena , Pupovac Miljan , Tinelli Andrea
Published: August 2022

Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors of female genital diseases, unlike uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS), a rare and aggressive uterine cancer. This narrative review aims to discuss the biology and diagnosis of LMS and, at the same time, their differential diagnosis, in order to distinguish the biological and molecular origins. The authors performed a Medline and PubMed search for the years 1990–2022 using a combination of keywords on the topics to highlight the many genes and proteins involved in the pathogenesis of LMS. The mutation of these genes, in addition to the altered expression and functions of their enzymes, are potentially biomarkers of uterine LMS. Thus, the use of this molecular and protein information could favor differential diagnosis and personalized therapy based on the molecular characteristics of LMS tissue, leading to timely diagnoses and potential better outcomes for patients.
Exogenously Applied Sodium Nitroprusside Mitigates Lead Toxicity in Rice by Regulating Antioxidants and Metal Stress-Related Transcripts
Authors: Rahim Waqas , Khan Murtaza , Al Azzawi Tiba Nazar Ibrahim , Pande Anjali , Methela Nusrat Jahan , Ali Sajid , Imran Muhammad , Lee Da-Sol , Lee Geun-Mo , Mun Bong-Gyu , Moon Yong-Sun , Lee In-Jung , Yun Byung-Wook
Published: August 2022

Sustainable agriculture is increasingly being put in danger by environmental contamination with dangerous heavy metals (HMs), especially lead (Pb). Plants have developed a sophisticated mechanism for nitric oxide (NO) production and signaling to regulate hazardous effects of abiotic factors, including HMs. In the current study, we investigated the role of exogenously applied sodium nitroprusside (SNP, a nitric oxide (NO) donor) in ameliorating the toxic effects of lead (Pb) on rice. For this purpose, plants were subjected to 1.2 mM Pb alone and in combination with 100 µM SNP. We found that under 1.2 mM Pb stress conditions, the accumulation of oxidative stress markers, including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (37%), superoxide anion (O2−) (28%), malondialdehyde (MDA) (33%), and electrolyte leakage (EL) (34%), was significantly reduced via the application of 100 µM SNP. On the other hand, under the said stress of Pb, the activity of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers such as polyphenol oxidase (PPO) (60%), peroxidase (POD) (28%), catalase (CAT) (26%), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (42%), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) (58%) was significantly increased via the application of 100 µM SNP. In addition, the application of 100 µM SNP rescued agronomic traits such as plant height (24%), number of tillers per plant (40%), and visible green pigments (44%) when the plants were exposed to 1.2 mM Pb stress. Furthermore, after exposure to 1.2 mM Pb stress, the expression of the heavy-metal stress-related genes OsPCS1 (44%), OsPCS2 (74%), OsMTP1 (83%), OsMTP5 (53%), OsMT-I-1a (31%), and OsMT-I-1b (24%) was significantly enhanced via the application of 100 µM SNP. Overall, our research evaluates that exogenously applied 100 mM SNP protects rice plants from the oxidative damage brought on by 1.2 mM Pb stress by lowering oxidative stress markers, enhancing the antioxidant system and the transcript accumulation of HMs stress-related genes.
Post-COVID-19 Parkinsonism and Parkinson’s Disease Pathogenesis: The Exosomal Cargo Hypothesis
Authors: Mysiris Dimitrios S. , Vavougios George D. , Karamichali Eirini , Papoutsopoulou Stamatia , Stavrou Vasileios T. , Papayianni Eirini , Boutlas Stylianos , Mavridis Theodoros , Foka Pelagia , Zarogiannis Sotirios G. , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos , Xiromerisiou Georgia
Published: August 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease, globally. Dopaminergic neuron degeneration in substantia nigra pars compacta and aggregation of misfolded alpha-synuclein are the PD hallmarks, accompanied by motor and non-motor symptoms. Several viruses have been linked to the appearance of a post-infection parkinsonian phenotype. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, has evolved from a novel pneumonia to a multifaceted syndrome with multiple clinical manifestations, among which neurological sequalae appear insidious and potentially long-lasting. Exosomes are extracellular nanovesicles bearing a complex cargo of active biomolecules and playing crucial roles in intercellular communication under pathophysiological conditions. Exosomes constitute a reliable route for misfolded protein transmission, contributing to PD pathogenesis and diagnosis. Herein, we summarize recent evidence suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 infection shares numerous clinical manifestations and inflammatory and molecular pathways with PD. We carry on hypothesizing that these similarities may be reflected in exosomal cargo modulated by the virus in correlation with disease severity. Travelling from the periphery to the brain, SARS-CoV-2-related exosomal cargo contains SARS-CoV-2 RNA, viral proteins, inflammatory mediators, and modified host proteins that could operate as promoters of neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory cascades, potentially leading to a future parkinsonism and PD development.
Mass Spectrometric-Based Proteomics for Biomarker Discovery in Osteosarcoma: Current Status and Future Direction
Authors: Sirikaew Nutnicha , Pruksakorn Dumnoensun , Chaiyawat Parunya , Chutipongtanate Somchai
Published: August 2022

Due to a lack of novel therapies and biomarkers, the clinical outcomes of osteosarcoma patients have not significantly improved for decades. The advancement of mass spectrometry (MS), peptide quantification, and downstream pathway analysis enables the investigation of protein profiles across a wide range of input materials, from cell culture to long-term archived clinical specimens. This can provide insight into osteosarcoma biology and identify candidate biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and stratification of chemotherapy response. In this review, we provide an overview of proteomics studies of osteosarcoma, indicate potential biomarkers that might be promising therapeutic targets, and discuss the challenges and opportunities of mass spectrometric-based proteomics in future osteosarcoma research.
Identification of Novel Genes Associated with Partial Resistance to Aphanomyces Root Rot in Field Pea by BSR-Seq Analysis
Authors: Wu Longfei , Fredua-Agyeman Rudolph , Strelkov Stephen E. , Chang Kan-Fa , Hwang Sheau-Fang
Published: August 2022

Aphanomyces root rot, caused by Aphanomyces euteiches, causes severe yield loss in field pea (Pisum sativum). The identification of a pea germplasm resistant to this disease is an important breeding objective. Polygenetic resistance has been reported in the field pea cultivar ‘00-2067’. To facilitate marker-assisted selection (MAS), bulked segregant RNA-seq (BSR-seq) analysis was conducted using an F8 RIL population derived from the cross of ‘Carman’ × ‘00-2067’. Root rot development was assessed under controlled conditions in replicated experiments. Resistant (R) and susceptible (S) bulks were constructed based on the root rot severity in a greenhouse study. The BSR-seq analysis of the R bulks generated 44,595,510~51,658,688 reads, of which the aligned sequences were linked to 44,757 genes in a reference genome. In total, 2356 differentially expressed genes were identified, of which 44 were used for gene annotation, including defense-related pathways (jasmonate, ethylene and salicylate) and the GO biological process. A total of 344.1 K SNPs were identified between the R and S bulks, of which 395 variants were located in 31 candidate genes. The identification of novel genes associated with partial resistance to Aphanomyces root rot in field pea by BSR-seq may facilitate efforts to improve management of this important disease.
Protective Effects of Epigallocatechin Gallate for Male Sexual Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Huang Andy C. , Yeh Ta-Chuan , Wu Nien-Chin , Yeh Chien-Yu , Lin Pei-Hua , Yeh Kuei-Ying
Published: August 2022

Sexual dysfunction is a common problem for men with diabetes. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is known to ameliorate erectile function in aging rats. However, there has not yet been a report to evaluate its effects on diabetic male rat sexual behavior in the literature. In this study, we investigated the effects of EGCG on male sexual behavior in diabetic rats. Diabetic rats were induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 65 mg/kg of streptozotocin. After streptozotocin injection for one week, animals were then orally treated with 40 mg/kg of EGCG or vehicle. Copulatory behavior and fasting blood glucose levels were recorded before treatment, as well as 7 and 14 days after treatment. Serum LH, testosterone, and PDE5a levels were measured by EIA assay after the last behavioral test. Data showed that diabetic rats who had diminished sexual functions demonstrated significantly increased latencies in mount, intromission, and ejaculation, as well as significant decreases in frequencies of intromission and ejaculation, compared to non-diabetic controls, indicating sexual function recovery. Lower blood glucose levels were also found in diabetic rats after EGCG treatment. Additionally, the lower LH and higher PDE5a levels in diabetic rats than controls were also noted. The findings declared that EGCG had a protective effect on male sexual behavior in diabetic rats.