bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green innovation risk index screening under the global value chain based on the group decision characteristic root method
Authors: Sun Yingying
Published: August 2023

As there are a large number of risk factors affecting green innovation under the global value chain, the screening of risk indicators is a key link in developing green innovation activities. Through the analysis of the influencing factors of current green innovation risk, the primary index of green innovation risk is established. The group decision characteristic root method is used to identify the key importance of primary indicators of green innovation risk and construct the global value chain’s green innovation risk index system, which provides a scientific method and new ideas for measuring and evaluating green innovation risk in the global value chain. The empirical results of this paper are as follows: 1) green R&D risk measurement indicators under the global value chain include the proportion of global green R&D personnel investment, the proportion of global green R&D capital investment, the stability of global green R&D in manufacturing, the ease of international transfer of green technology, and the international protection of green technology patents; 2) Green manufacturing risk measurement indicators under the global value chain have seven risk factors: the proportion of global green manufacturing personnel investment, the proportion of global green manufacturing capital investment, the global green manufacturing product production scale, the global green manufacturing product quality performance level, the global outsourcing scale of green products, the global green manufacturing technology transformation degree of manufacturing industry, and the global green manufacturing cost increase; 3) green marketing risk measurement indicators under the global value chain have seven risk factors: the proportion of global green marketing personnel investment, the proportion of global green marketing capital investment, the international demand level for green products, the international market competition intensity of green products, the possession of green products to existing international marketing channels, the commercialization and internationalization level of green technology, and the intensity of green technical barriers to trade in the international community; and 4) green service risk measurement indicators under the global value chain have five risk factors: the proportion of global green service personnel investment, the proportion of global green service capital investment, the 1coverage of global green service outlets, the globalization level of global green product supply chain, and the global after-sales technical service capability of green products.
Drought legacy effects on fine-root-associated fungal communities are modulated by root interactions between tree species
Authors: Danzberger Jasmin , Werner Ramona , Mucha Joanna , Pritsch Karin , Weikl Fabian
Published: August 2023

With climate change, the frequency of severe droughts is predicted to increase globally, resulting in increased forest dieback. Although fine-root systems and their associated fungi are considered crucial for tree nutrient exchange after a drought period and consequently for tree recovery, post-drought dynamics remain poorly understood. We rewatered mature European beech and Norway spruce after a 5-year experimental summer drought to shed light on belowground recovery processes. Therefore, we tracked the fine-root parameters growth, vitality, and mycorrhization in monospecific rooting zones with intraspecific root contact and mixed rooting zones with interspecific root contact of both tree species during the first 3 months of recovery, and we analyzed compositions of their root-associated fungal communities by DNA- and RNA-ITS2 sequencing. During recovery, the fine-root parameters differed between both tree species, with only minor effects of the tree rooting zone. Root-associated fungal communities showed no significant response to irrigation within 3 months after drought release. The rooting zone was the dominating factor affecting the root-associated fungal diversity, the abundance of trophic modes, and the response of individual saprotrophic and ectomycorrhizal (ECM) species. Furthermore, an analysis of the most abundant fungal species revealed that for ECM fungi, drought tolerance was common and for saprotrophs, a facultative, root-associated lifestyle. These results suggest that tree species-specific fungal communities are stable despite previous long-term drought and are closely associated with tree species-specific response patterns related to root survival and recovery. Moreover, an association between saprotrophic fungi and roots might be a strategy to support fungal drought survival.
Under the influence: environmental factors as modulators of neuroinflammation through the IL-10/IL-10R axis
Authors: Bugbee Eryn , Wang Angela A. , Gommerman Jennifer L.
Published: August 2023

The IL-10/IL-10 receptor (IL-10R) axis plays an important role in attenuating neuroinflammation in animal models of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and increased IL-10 has been associated with a positive response to MS disease modifying therapy. Because environmental factors play an important role in MS susceptibility and disease course, identification of environmental factors that impact the IL-10/IL-10R axis has therapeutic potential. In this review, we provide historical and updated perspectives of how IL-10R signaling impacts neuroinflammation, discuss environmental factors and intestinal microbes with known impacts on the IL-10/IL-10R axis, and provide a hypothetical model for how B cells, via their production of IL-10, may be important in conveying environmental “information” to the inflamed central nervous system.
A novel trivalent non-Fc anti-CD3 Collabody preferentially induces Th1 cell apoptosis in vitro and long-lasting remission in recent-onset diabetic NOD mice
Authors: Huang Chuan-Chuan , Sung Hsiang-Hsuan , Li Hsiu-Chuan , Miaw Shi-Chuen , Kung John T. , Chou Min-Yuan , Wu-Hsieh Betty A.
Published: August 2023

Specific anti-CD3 treatment is deemed to be a promising therapy for allograft rejection and type 1 diabetes (T1D). Fc receptor (FcR) reduced-binding antibodies, by avoiding adverse effects of Fc and FcR interaction, have good therapeutic potential. We generated a trivalent anti-mouse-CD3 Collabody, h145CSA, by using a triplex-forming collagen-like peptide (Gly-Pro-Pro)10to drive the trimerization of the Fab fragments. Exposure to h145CSA, but not its bivalent counterparts 145-2C11 and h145chIgGAA (FcR reduced-binding format), upregulates FasL expression on Th1 cells and causes Th1 cell apoptosis. Administration of h145CSA invokes minimal mitogenic effects in mice. The ability of multiple dosing of h145CSA to induce splenic CD4+T-cell depletion is comparable to bivalent antibodies but is characterized by more rapid CD4+T-cell recovery kinetics. h145CSA is more potent than h145chIgGAA in inducing long-lasting remission in recent-onset diabetic NOD mice. Its therapeutic effect is accompanied by a significantly lower percentage of CD4+IFNγ+T cells and a higher Treg/Th1 ratio in pancreatic and mesenteric lymph nodes. The results of our study demonstrate that trivalent non-Fc anti-CD3 Collabody has the potential to be used in the treatment of T1D.
Graft-versus-host disease: teaching old drugs new tricks at less cost
Authors: Farhan Shatha , Holtan Shernan G.
Published: August 2023

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT). Currently, more patients can receive SCT. This is attributed to the use of reduced intensity regimens and the use of different GVHD prophylaxis that breaks the barrier of human leukocyte antigen, allowing an increase in the donor pool. Once an area with relatively few clinical trial options, there has been an increase in interest in GVHD prophylaxis and treatment, which has led to many US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals. Although there is considerable excitement over novel therapies, many patients may not have access to them due to geographical or other resource constraints. In this review article, we summarize the latest evidence on how we can continue to repurpose drugs for GVHD prophylaxis and treatment. Drugs covered by our review include those that have been FDA approved for other uses for at least 15 years (since 2008); thus, they are likely to have generic equivalents available now or in the near future.
The battle between the innate immune cGAS-STING signaling pathway and human herpesvirus infection
Authors: Jin Ximing , Wang Wenjia , Zhao Xinwei , Jiang Wenhua , Shao Qingqing , Chen Zhuo , Huang Cong
Published: August 2023

The incidence of human herpesvirus (HHVs) is gradually increasing and has affected a wide range of population. HHVs can result in serious consequences such as tumors, neonatal malformations, sexually transmitted diseases, as well as pose an immense threat to the human health. The cGAS-STING pathway is one of the innate immune pattern-recognition receptors discovered recently. This article discusses the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in human diseases, especially in human herpesvirus infections, as well as highlights how these viruses act on this pathway to evade the host immunity. Moreover, the author provides a comprehensive overview of modulators of the cGAS-STING pathway. By focusing on the small molecule compounds based on the cGAS-STING pathway, novel targets and concepts have been proposed for the development of antiviral drugs and vaccines, while also providing a reference for the investigation of disease models related to the cGAS-STING pathway. HHV is a double-stranded DNA virus that can trigger the activation of intracellular DNA sensor cGAS, after which the host cells initiate a cascade of reactions that culminate in the secretion of type I interferon to restrict the viral replication. Meanwhile, the viral protein can interact with various molecules in the cGAS-STING pathway. Viruses can evade immune surveillance and maintain their replication by inhibiting the enzyme activity of cGAS and reducing the phosphorylation levels of STING, TBK1 and IRF3 and suppressing the interferon gene activation. Activators and inhibitors of the cGAS-STING pathway have yielded numerous promising research findings in vitro and in vivo pertaining to cGAS/STING-related disease models. However, there remains a dearth of small molecule modulators that have been successfully translated into clinical applications, which serves as a hurdle to be overcome in the future.
Inotuzumab ozogamicin in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia: efficacy, toxicity, and practical considerations
Authors: Rubinstein Jeremy D. , O’Brien Maureen M.
Published: August 2023

Inotuzumab ozogamicin (InO) is an antibody drug conjugate composed of a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting the cell surface receptor CD22 coupled to a cytotoxic calicheamicin payload via an acid labile linker. InO has shown significant activity in relapsed and refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL) in both single agent and combination chemotherapy regimens in adult and pediatric trials. Its use in newly diagnosed elderly patients has also been established while clinical trials investigating its use in newly diagnosed pediatric patients and fit adults are ongoing. Notable toxicities include sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), particularly in patients who undergo hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) after InO as well as myelosuppression and B-cell aplasia which confer increased infection risk, particularly in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy. In the relapsed/refractory (R/R) setting, the planned subsequent curative therapy modality must be considered when using InO to mitigate SOS risk if proceeding to HSCT and account for potential B-cell aplasia if proceeding to chimeric antigen receptor CAR-T therapy. Studies exploring mechanisms of resistance or failure of InO are ongoing but modulation or loss CD22 expression, alternative CD22 splicing, and high Bcl-2 expression have been implicated. In this review, we will summarize the currently available data on InO, with an emphasis on pediatric trials, and explore future directions including combinatorial therapy.
Biomaterial considerations for ovarian cancer models
Authors: Kramer Maranda , Criswell Allyson , Sewell-Loftin Mary Kathryn
Published: August 2023

Ovarian cancer is the 5th most common and the deadliest gynecological cancer, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 50 percent. Most deaths due to ovarian cancer are caused by recurrent disease, which typically corresponds to an increase in chemoresistance of the tumor cells. However, little is known about how ovarian tumor chemoresponse changes and if such changes are regulated by the tumor microenvironment (TME). Moreover, the ovarian TME, including the tissue compositions and biomechanical features, is not well-characterized primarily due to a lack of optimal models. To more effectively characterize the TME of ovarian cancer, which may help develop innovative treatment strategies, appropriate models are desperately needed. The most utilized models include mouse models with both patient-derived xenografts and mouse or human tumor cell line derivatives, and more recently microphysiological systems (MPS). While mouse models provide high levels of physiological complexity, there is virtually no control over the TME components after tumor initiation or implantation. On the other hand, MPS or organoid models permit high levels of control of initial composition but lack many features of in vivo models. Selection of appropriate components to create a TME model is paramount for generating a physiologically relevant in vitro and ex vivo systems. The importance of biomaterial or matrix selection in ovarian TME models lies in the role of these components to activate oncogenic signaling pathways either through receptor-ligand interactions or mechanotransduction. Recent studies suggest that off-target or post-target effects of chemotherapies may interfere with mechanotransductive pathways. In ovarian cancer, changes in fibrous proteins, adhesive glycoproteins, and glycosaminoglycans can remodel the mechanical environment, further altering mechanotransductive pathways. Therefore, the next-generation of ovarian tumor models should incorporate relevant biomaterials including hyaluronic acid (HA), collagens, fibrinogen, and fibronectin to investigate the link between matrix properties and mechanobiology with metastasis and chemoresistance.
Airport pavement performance evaluation of pavement fog seal based on optimized test technology
Authors: Li Ping , Peng Wenju , Mao Jing , Yan Xin , Liu Zhaohui , Kong Lingyi
Published: August 2023

Fog seal technology is widely used in airport asphalt pavement. The research on the performance and application of fog seal material is basically at the level of modified emulsified asphalt. The fog seal test method in the existing specification has defects. Three kinds of fog seal materials with different substrates were selected in this paper. Based on the characteristics of fog seal treatment and the relevant specifications of fog seal and airport pavement. Wet Track Abrasion Test (WTAT), Cantabro test, Water seepage test, and Pendulum instrument tester pavement friction coefficient test were improved. Test the pavement performance of different types of fog seals. The results show that the mass loss of material C was less than 10% after 200 and 400 cycles of wear. The improvement effect of material C on raveling resistance and impermeability was far better than that of materials A and B. The improvement of material C on the raveling resistance of the mixture could reach 50%. The immediate improvement effect on the impermeability was nearly 100%. The skid resistance performance of the three fog seal materials decreased after treatment. The decrease in material C was more significant than in materials A and B. In constructing material C, the dose of emery should be appropriately increased. It was advisable to not be less than 0.35 kg/m2. The fog seal layer improves pavement performance. It has reference significance for using fog seal technology to treat early airport pavement diseases.
Integrating proteomic data with metabolic modeling provides insight into key pathways of Bordetella pertussis biofilms
Authors: Suyama Hiroki , Luu Laurence Don Wai , Zhong Ling , Raftery Mark J. , Lan Ruiting
Published: August 2023

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough is a severe respiratory disease caused by the bacterium, Bordetella pertussis. Despite widespread vaccination, pertussis resurgence has been observed globally. The development of the current acellular vaccine (ACV) has been based on planktonic studies. However, recent studies have shown that B. pertussis readily forms biofilms. A better understanding of B. pertussis biofilms is important for developing novel vaccines that can target all aspects of B. pertussis infection. This study compared the proteomic expression of biofilm and planktonic B. pertussis cells to identify key changes between the conditions. Major differences were identified in virulence factors including an upregulation of toxins (adenylate cyclase toxin and dermonecrotic toxin) and downregulation of pertactin and type III secretion system proteins in biofilm cells. To further dissect metabolic pathways that are altered during the biofilm lifestyle, the proteomic data was then incorporated into a genome scale metabolic model using the Integrative Metabolic Analysis Tool (iMAT). The generated models predicted that planktonic cells utilised the glyoxylate shunt while biofilm cells completed the full tricarboxylic acid cycle. Differences in processing aspartate, arginine and alanine were identified as well as unique export of valine out of biofilm cells which may have a role in inter-bacterial communication and regulation. Finally, increased polyhydroxybutyrate accumulation and superoxide dismutase activity in biofilm cells may contribute to increased persistence during infection. Taken together, this study modeled major proteomic and metabolic changes that occur in biofilm cells which helps lay the groundwork for further understanding B. pertussis pathogenesis.
Phylogenomic reappraisal of the family Rhizobiaceae at the genus and species levels, including the description of Ectorhizobium quercum gen. nov., sp. nov.
Authors: Ma Tengfei , Xue Han , Piao Chungen , Jiang Ning , Li Yong
Published: August 2023

The family Rhizobiaceae contains 19 validly described genera including the rhizobia groups, many of which are important nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Early classification of Rhizobiaceae relied heavily on the poorly resolved 16S rRNA genes and resulted in several taxonomic conflicts. Although several recent studies illustrated the taxonomic status of many members in the family Rhizobiaceae, several para- and polyphyletic genera still needed to be elucidated. The rapidly increasing number of genomes in Rhizobiaceae has allowed for a revision of the taxonomic identities of members in Rhizobiaceae. In this study, we performed analyses of genome-based phylogeny and phylogenomic metrics to review the relationships of 155-type strains within the family Rhizobiaceae. The UBCG and concatenated protein phylogenetic trees, constructed based on 92 core genes and concatenated alignment of 170 single-copy orthologous proteins, demonstrated that the taxonomic inconsistencies should be assigned to eight novel genera, and 22 species should be recombined. All these reclassifications were also confirmed by pairwise cpAAI values, which separated genera within the family Rhizobiaceae with a demarcation threshold of ~86%. In addition, along with the phenotypic and chemotaxonomic analyses, a novel strain BDR2-2T belonging to a novel genus of the family Rhizobiaceae was also confirmed, for which the name Ectorhizobium quercum gen. nov., sp. nov. was proposed. The type strain is BDR2-2T (=CFCC 16492T = LMG 31717T).
Enhance of tomato production and induction of changes on the organic profile mediated by Rhizobium biofortification
Authors: Gen-Jiménez Adriana , Flores-Félix José David , Rincón-Molina Clara Ivette , Manzano-Gomez Luis Alberto , Rogel Marco Antonio , Ruíz-Valdiviezo Víctor Manuel , Rincón-Molina Francisco Alexander , Rincón-Rosales Reiner
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The extensive use of chemical fertilizers has served as a response to the increasing need for crop production in recent decades. While it addresses the demand for food, it has resulted in a decline in crop productivity and a heightened negative environmental impact. In contrast, plant probiotic bacteria (PPB) offer a promising alternative to mitigate the negative consequences of chemical fertilizers. PPB can enhance nutrient availability, promote plant growth, and improve nutrient uptake efficiency, thereby reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers.

Methods

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of native Rhizobium strains, specifically Rhizobium calliandrae LBP2-1, Rhizobium mayense NSJP1-1, and Rhizobium jaguaris SJP1- 2, on the growth, quality, and rhizobacterial community of tomato crops. Various mechanisms promoting plant growth were investigated, including phosphate solubilization, siderophore production, indole acetic acid synthesis, and cellulose and cellulase production. Additionally, the study involved the assessment of biofilm formation and root colonization by GFP-tagged strains, conducted a microcosm experiment, and analyzed the microbial community using metagenomics of rhizospheric soil.

Results

The results showed that the rhizobial strains LBP2-1, NSJP1-1 and SJP1-2 had the ability to solubilize dicalcium phosphate, produce siderophores, synthesize indole acetic acid, cellulose production, biofilm production, and root colonization. Inoculation of tomato plants with native Rhizobium strains influenced growth, fruit quality, and plant microbiome composition. Metagenomic analysis showed increased Proteobacteria abundance and altered alpha diversity indices, indicating changes in rhizospheric bacterial community.

Discussion

Our findings demonstrate the potential that native Rhizobium strains have to be used as a plant probiotic in agricultural crops for the generation of safe food and high nutritional value.
Update on neurobiological mechanisms of fear: illuminating the direction of mechanism exploration and treatment development of trauma and fear-related disorders
Authors: Li Ying , Zhi Weijia , Qi Bing , Wang Lifeng , Hu Xiangjun
Published: August 2023

Fear refers to an adaptive response in the face of danger, and the formed fear memory acts as a warning when the individual faces a dangerous situation again, which is of great significance to the survival of humans and animals. Excessive fear response caused by abnormal fear memory can lead to neuropsychiatric disorders. Fear memory has been studied for a long time, which is of a certain guiding effect on the treatment of fear-related disorders. With continuous technological innovations, the study of fear has gradually shifted from the level of brain regions to deeper neural (micro) circuits between brain regions and even within single brain regions, as well as molecular mechanisms. This article briefly outlines the basic knowledge of fear memory and reviews the neurobiological mechanisms of fear extinction and relapse, which aims to provide new insights for future basic research on fear emotions and new ideas for treating trauma and fear-related disorders.
Effects of long-term individual housing of middle-aged female Octodon degus on spatial learning and memory in the Barnes maze task
Authors: Popović Natalija , Baño-Otalora Beatriz , Rol María Ángeles , Venero César , Madrid Juan Antonio , Popović Miroljub
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Prolonged social isolation is a form of passive chronic stress that has consequences on human and animal behavior. The present study was undertaken to elucidate whether the long-term isolation would precipitate age-related changes in anxiety and spatial learning and memory in degus.

Methods

We investigated the effects of long-term social isolation on anxiety levels in the light-dark test, and spatial orientation abilities in the Barnes maze. Middle-aged femaleOctodon deguswere allocated to either group-housed (3 animals per cage) or individually-housed for 5 months.

Results

Under this experimental condition, there were no significant group differences in the anxiety level tested in the light-dark test and in the motivation to escape from the Barnes maze. There were no significant differences in cortisol levels between individually- and group-housed animals. On the last acquisition training day of spatial learning, individually- housed animals had a significantly higher number of correct responses and a smaller number of reference and working memory errors than the group-housed animals. In addition, isolated animals showed a tendency for reference and working memory impairment on the retention trial, while group-housed degus showed improvement in these parameters.

Discussion and conclusion

The present study indicates that prolonged social isolation during adulthood in female degus has a dual effect on spatial orientation. Specifically, it results in a significant improvement in acquisition skills but a slight impairment in memory retention. The obtained cognitive changes were not accompanied by modification in anxiety and cortisol levels.
Structural and functional changes of the cerebellum in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Wang Ge , Liu Xianghe , Zhang Min , Wang Kangrun , Liu Chaorong , Chen Yayu , Wu Wenyue , Zhao Haiting , Xiao Bo , Wan Lily , Long Lili
Published: August 2023

Aims

This study aimed to comprehensively explore the cerebellar structural and functional changes in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and its association with clinical information.

Methods

The SUIT toolbox was utilized to perform cerebellar volume and diffusion analysis. In addition, we extracted the average diffusion values of cerebellar peduncle tracts to investigate microstructure alterations. Seed-based whole-brain analysis was used to investigate cerebellar–cerebral functional connectivity (FC). Subgroup analyses were performed to identify the cerebellar participation in TLE with/without hippocampal sclerosis (HS)/focal-to-bilateral tonic–clonic seizure (FBTCS) and TLE with different lateralization.

Results

TLE showed widespread gray matter atrophy in bilateral crusII, VIIb, VIIIb, left crusI, and left VIIIa. Both voxel and tract analysis observed diffusion abnormalities in cerebellar afferent peduncles. Reduced FC between the right crus II and the left parahippocampal cortex was found in TLE. Additionally, TLE showed increased FCs between left lobules VI–VIII and cortical nodes of the dorsal attention and visual networks. Across all patients, decreased FC was associated with poorer cognitive function, while increased FCs appeared to reflect compensatory effects. The cerebellar structural changes were mainly observed in HS and FBTCS subgroups and were regardless of seizure lateralization, while cerebellar–cerebral FC alterations were similar in all subgroups.

Conclusion

TLE exhibited microstructural changes in the cerebellum, mainly related to HS and FBTCS. In addition, altered cerebellar–cerebral functional connectivity is associated with common cognitive alterations in TLE.
AMPA and GABAA receptor nanodomains assemble in the absence of synaptic neurotransmitter release
Authors: Ramsay Harrison J. , Gookin Sara E. , Ramsey Austin M. , Kareemo Dean J. , Crosby Kevin C. , Stich Dominik G. , Olah Samantha S. , Actor-Engel Hannah S. , Smith Katharine R. , Kennedy Matthew J.
Published: August 2023

Postsynaptic neurotransmitter receptors and their associated scaffolding proteins assemble into discrete, nanometer-scale subsynaptic domains (SSDs) within the postsynaptic membrane at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Intriguingly, postsynaptic receptor SSDs are mirrored by closely apposed presynaptic active zones. These trans-synaptic molecular assemblies are thought to be important for efficient neurotransmission because they concentrate postsynaptic receptors near sites of presynaptic neurotransmitter release. While previous studies have characterized the role of synaptic activity in sculpting the number, size, and distribution of postsynaptic SSDs at established synapses, it remains unknown whether neurotransmitter signaling is required for their initial assembly during synapse development. Here, we evaluated synaptic nano-architecture under conditions where presynaptic neurotransmitter release was blocked prior to, and throughout synaptogenesis with tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT). In agreement with previous work, neurotransmitter release was not required for the formation of excitatory or inhibitory synapses. The overall size of the postsynaptic specialization at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses was reduced at chronically silenced synapses. However, both AMPARs and GABAARs still coalesced into SSDs, along with their respective scaffold proteins. Presynaptic active zone assemblies, defined by RIM1, were smaller and more numerous at silenced synapses, but maintained alignment with postsynaptic AMPAR SSDs. Thus, basic features of synaptic nano-architecture, including assembly of receptors and scaffolds into trans-synaptically aligned structures, are intrinsic properties that can be further regulated by subsequent activity-dependent mechanisms.
Association of dietary intake of polyphenols, lignans, and phytosterols with immune-stimulating microbiota and COVID-19 risk in a group of Polish men and women
Authors: Micek Agnieszka , Bolesławska Izabela , Jagielski Paweł , Konopka Kamil , Waśkiewicz Anna , Witkowska Anna Maria , Przysławski Juliusz , Godos Justyna
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Devastating consequences of COVID-19 disease enhanced the role of promoting prevention-focused practices. Among targeted efforts, diet is regarded as one of the potential factors which can affect immune function and optimal nutrition is postulated as the method of augmentation of people’s viral resistance. As epidemiological evidence is scarce, the present study aimed to explore the association between dietary intake of total polyphenols, lignans and plant sterols and the abundance of immunomodulatory gut microbiota such as Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli and the risk of developing COVID-19 disease.

Methods

Demographic data, dietary habits, physical activity as well as the composition of body and gut microbiota were analyzed in a sample of 95 young healthy individuals. Dietary polyphenol, lignan and plant sterol intakes have been retrieved based on the amount of food consumed by the participants, the phytochemical content was assessed in laboratory analysis and using available databases.

Results

For all investigated polyphenols and phytosterols, except campesterol, every unit increase in the tertile of intake category was associated with a decrease in the odds of contracting COVID-19. The risk reduction ranged from several dozen percent to 70 %, depending on the individual plant-based chemical, and after controlling for basic covariates it was statistically significant for secoisolariciresinol (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11–0.61), total phytosterols (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.22–0.95) and for stigmasterols (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.14–0.72). We found an inverse association between increased β-sitosterol intake and phytosterols in total and the occurrence of Escherichia coli in stool samples outside reference values, with 72% (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.08–0.86) and 66% (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.10–1.08) reduced odds of abnormal level of bacteria for the highest compared with the lowest tertile of phytochemical consumption. Additionally, there was a trend of more frequent presence of Enterococcus spp. at relevant level in people with a higher intake of lariciresinol.

Conclusion

The beneficial effects of polyphenols and phytosterols should be emphasized and these plant-based compounds should be regarded in the context of their utility as antiviral agents preventing influenza-type infections.
Pan-cancer analysis reveals that G6PD is a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for a variety of cancers
Authors: Zeng Tao , Li Bin , Shu Xin , Pang Jiahui , Wang Heping , Cai Xianghao , Liao Yingying , Xiao Xiaolong , Chong Yutian , Gong Jiao , Li Xinhua
Published: August 2023

Background

Despite accumulating evidence revealing that Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is highly expressed in many tumor tissues and plays a remarkable role in cancer tumorigenesis and progression, there is still a lack of G6PD pan-cancer analysis. This study was designed to analyze the expression status and prognostic significance of G6PD in pan-cancer.

Methods

G6PD expression data were obtained from multiple data resources including the Genotype-Tissue Expression, the Cancer Genome Atlas, and the Tumor Immunity Estimation Resource. These data were used to assess the G6PD expression, prognostic value, and clinical characteristics. The ESTIMATE algorithms were used to analyze the association between G6PD expression and immune-infiltrating cells and the tumor microenvironment. The functional enrichment analysis was also performed across pan-cancer. In addition, the GDSC1 database containing 403 drugs was utilized to explore the relationship between drug sensitivity and G6PD expression levels. Furthermore, we also performed clinical validation and in vitro experiments to further validate the role of G6PD in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and its correlation with prognosis. The R software was used for statistical analysis and data visualization.

Results

G6PD expression was upregulated in most cancers compared to their normal counterparts. The study also revealed that G6PD expression was a prognostic indicator and high levels of G6PD expression were correlated with worse clinical prognosis including overall survival, disease-specific survival, and progression-free interval in multiple cancers. Furthermore, the G6PD level was also related to cancer immunity infiltration in most of the cancers, especially in KIRC, LGG, and LIHC. In addition to this, G6PD expression was positively related to pathological stages of KIRP, BRCA, KIRC, and LIHC. Functional analysis and protein-protein interactions network results revealed that G6PD was involved in metabolism-related activities, immune responses, proliferation, and apoptosis. Drug sensitivity analysis showed that IC50 values of most identified anti-cancer drugs were positively correlated with the G6PD expression. Notably, in vitro functional validation showed that G6PD knockdown attenuated the phenotypes of proliferation in HCC.

Conclusion

G6PD may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker for cancers and may be a potential therapeutic target gene for tumor therapy.
Metformin is a metabolic modulator and radiosensitiser in rectal cancer
Authors: Buckley Croí E. , O’Brien Rebecca M. , Nugent Timothy S. , Donlon Noel E. , O’Connell Fiona , Reynolds John V. , Hafeez Adnan , O’Ríordáin Diarmuid S. , Hannon Robert A. , Neary Paul , Kalbassi Reza , Mehigan Brian J. , McCormick Paul H. , Dunne Cara , Kelly Michael E. , Larkin John O. , O’Sullivan Jacintha , Lynam-Lennon Niamh
Published: August 2023

Resistance to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy, is a major challenge in the management of rectal cancer. Increasing evidence supports a role for altered energy metabolism in the resistance of tumours to anti-cancer therapy, suggesting that targeting tumour metabolism may have potential as a novel therapeutic strategy to boost treatment response. In this study, the impact of metformin on the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer cells, and the potential mechanisms of action of metformin-mediated radiosensitisation were investigated. Metformin treatment was demonstrated to significantly radiosensitise both radiosensitive and radioresistant colorectal cancer cells in vitro. Transcriptomic and functional analysis demonstrated metformin-mediated alterations to energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, cell cycle distribution and progression, cell death and antioxidant levels in colorectal cancer cells. Using ex vivo models, metformin treatment significantly inhibited oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis in treatment naïve rectal cancer biopsies, without affecting the real-time metabolic profile of non-cancer rectal tissue. Importantly, metformin treatment differentially altered the protein secretome of rectal cancer tissue when compared to non-cancer rectal tissue. Together these data highlight the potential utility of metformin as an anti-metabolic radiosensitiser in rectal cancer.
Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles reveal the protective mechanism of modified Danggui Buxue decoction on radiation-induced leukopenia in mice
Authors: Chen Wei , Xin Jiayun , Wei Xintong , Ding Qianqian , Shen Yunheng , Xu Xike , Wei Yanping , Lv Yanhui , Wang Jie , Li Zhanhong , Zhang Weidong , Zu Xianpeng
Published: August 2023

Leukopenia caused by radiation hinders the continuous treatment of cancers. Danggui Buxue Decoction (DBD) has been widely used in clinical owing to low toxicity and definite therapeutic effects to increase leukocytes. Meanwhile, icaritin (ICT) has also been proved to have the effect of boosting peripheral blood cells proliferation. However, there is no study to prove the efficacy of MDBD (Modified Danggui Buxue Decoction), a derivative herbal formula composed of DBD and ICT, in the treatment of radiation-induced leukopenia. In this study, we performed a model of 3.5 Gy whole-body radiation to induce leukopenia in mice. The results of pharmacodynamic studies demonstrated that MDBD could significantly increase the white blood cells in peripheral blood by improving the activity of bone marrow nuclear cells, reducing bone marrow damage, modulating spleen index, and regulating hematopoietic factors to alleviate leukopenia. We also analyzed the integrated results of metabolomics and transcriptomics and found that MDBD could relieve leukopenia and alleviate bone marrow damage by targeting steroid biosynthesis and IL-17 signaling pathway, in which the key genes are Jun, Cxcl2 and Egr1. Therefore, our study provides a basis for the effectiveness and compatibility in the combination of traditional Chinese medicine formula and small molecule drugs.
Resistance strategies and attitude certainty in persuasion: bolstering vs. counterarguing
Authors: Blankenship Kevin L. , Machacek Marielle G. , Standefer Jack
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Although resistance to persuasion has been of interest in psychology, relatively little research has examined how different resistance strategies can affect the strength-related features of attitudes. The current research presents a metacognitive account of two resistance strategies and their effect on attitude certainty and intentions. Specifically, we examine how the strategies of counterarguing and bolstering can differentially affect attitude certainty and intentions to act on the attitude under attack.

Methods

In two experiments, we implemented a 2(Perceived Thought Type: bolster vs. counterargue) x 2(Perceived Argument Quality: weak vs. strong) between-participants design. Participants read weak or strong arguments about a counterattitudinal topic. After reporting their thoughts in response to the message topic, participants received bogus feedback regarding the nature of their thoughts (i.e., bolstering or counterarguing). Following the feedback, participants reported their attitudes and attitude certainty.

Results

In Experiment 1 (N =241), participants’ thoughts perceived as counterarguments elicited attitude certainty that was more sensitive to the quality of the attacking information than when thoughts were perceived as bolstering one’s opinion. Experiment 2 (N  = 287) replicated the effect with a different topic and demonstrated a similar pattern on intentions to act on the attacked attitude.

Discussion

The research demonstrates that two relatively thoughtful strategies, bolstering and counterarguing, can play an important role in attitude certainty and intentions following a persuasion attempt.
Promoting culturally informed and sensitive practice in day-care centers—a contribution to the professionalization of day-care teachers
Authors: Buchner Ursula Gisela , Eberl Constanze Maria Luise , Hess Markus
Published: August 2023

Background

Based on the growing number of families and young children with a refugee background in Germany, day-care teachers face enormous challenges regarding culturally informed practice. The project “Gemeinsam stark durch den Start” (Stronger together by starting together) addresses these challenges on various levels. At the level of day-care teachers, training in culturally informed and sensitive education is combined with reflection sessions about their own attitudes and prevailing intercultural norms, thus contributing to the professionalization of day-care teachers.

Aim

This paper focuses on mechanisms of action that contributed to the effectiveness of the training from two perspectives: the day-care teachers’ perspective and the trainers’ perspective.

Methods

Staff members of 11 German day-care centers underwent graded online training sessions (team and in-depths trainings) addressing intercultural topics. All participants were presented with a questionnaire for their training evaluation before and after the training sessions. Also, participants of the in-depths trainings participated in semi-structured interviews on the training. Furthermore, qualitative interviews were conducted with all trainers (N = 4) of the workshops.

Results

Day-care teachers evaluated the online training positively, especially the improvement of professionalization and the implementation of training elements. Results reveal that (work-related) reflexive sessions as well as sessions dealing with the implementation of exercise tools into daily practice were rated as fundamental parts in the training. Teachers from high-risk day-care centers estimated the trainings’ effectiveness lower than those working in low-risk day-care centers. Qualitative data shows that the day-care teachers are in need of (theoretical) knowledge about all training elements and hands-on advice for dealing with specific situations. Especially day-care teachers within a high-risk environment, who already report having an elevated level of intercultural knowledge and skills, may need a higher dose training while low-risk day-care teachers may profit more from a low threshold training.

Conclusion

The introduced training sessions focusing on intercultural sensitivity and competence present an important contribution to the professionalization of day-care teachers in working with children from different cultural backgrounds. Trainings should focus on reflexive elements as well as exercises in perspective taking and provide hands on materials for daily work.
Professional identification in the beginning of a teacher’s career: a longitudinal study on identity formation and the basic psychological need for autonomy in VET teacher training
Authors: Weiß Julia Katharina , Bottling Matthias , Kärner Tobias
Published: August 2023

Introduction

This study examines the extent to which VET trainee teachers’ identification with their profession is related to their basic psychological need for autonomy and whether this is reflected in their intention to stay in the field. Trainee’s subjective experience of their professional identity interacts with different conditions of the training environment, whereby we focus on perceived autonomy support and autonomy thwarting behavior of seminar teachers.

Methods

On the basis of a longitudinal design with a total of 79 trainee teachers in Germany and four survey time points during teacher training, corresponding developmental processes were traced over a total period of 1 year. Cross-lagged panel analyses allow us to draw conclusions about the extent to which professional identification of trainees interacts with autonomy-support or autonomy-thwarting conditions originating from seminar teachers and to what extent the aforementioned factors in turn affect intention to stay.

Results

Cross-lagged panel analyses show that professional identification after 6 months in teacher training significantly predicts the intention to stay in the teaching profession half a year later. Significant cross paths each describe positive effects between professional identification and autonomy support and negative effects between professional identification and autonomy thwarting.

Discussion

Particularly against the background of the shortage of teachers in Germany and other countries, the promotion of professional identification processes in the sense of a teacher identity can be assessed as crucial. In this respect, an autonomy-supporting environment, e.g., created by seminar teachers, can already contribute to that during teacher training.
Perceived parental involvement influences students’ academic buoyancy and adaptability: the mediating roles of goal orientations
Authors: Chen Mudan , Mok Ida Ah Chee
Published: August 2023

Academic buoyancy and adaptability (i.e., student capacities to deal with difficulties and challenges in daily school lives and to make appropriate cognitive, behavioral as well as affective adjustments in interacting with new, uncertain, and/or changing situations, circumstances, and conditions) can help learners regulate and protect themselves in the failure-prone learning environment. This study examined how students’ perceptions of parental academic involvement and their goal orientations were related to their academic buoyancy and adaptability in mathematics learning. We recruited a sample of 1,164 Chinese junior high school students. Using structural equation modeling, the results indicated that after controlling for family socioeconomic status and gender, perceived parental involvement was positively related to the students’ academic buoyancy and adaptability. Furthermore, parental involvement was significantly associated with students’ mastery and performance-approach goal orientations, which further partially mediated the relationship between parental involvement and academic buoyancy and adaptability. However, the mediating role of a performance-avoidance goal orientation in this relationship was not significant. Findings highlight the important roles that parenting practices and individual achievement motivation play in the development of academic buoyancy and adaptability in the Chinese context. Future research directions and implications are discussed.