bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analgesic Effectiveness of Physical Therapy Combining the Use of Electromagnetic Fields with Light Radiation Emitted by LEDs along with the Use of Topical Herbal Ointment in Patients with Gonarthrosis
Authors: Janczewska Katarzyna , Koszela Kamil , Klimkiewicz Robert , Kubsik-Gidlewska Anna , Jankowska Agnieszka , Klimkiewicz Paulina , Woldańska-Okońska Marta
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: The aim of the study is to evaluate the analgesic effectiveness of a physical therapy regimen that combines the use of an electromagnetic field with light radiation emitted by LEDs, along with the use of Traumeel S ointment, in patients with gonarthrosis. (2) Methods: The study included 90 patients with knee osteoarthritis (grade 2 Kellgren and Lawrence osteoarthritis). They were divided into three groups: Group I, 30 patients treated with magnetic stimulation plus LED therapy; Group II, 30 patients treated with Traumeel S ointment; and Group III, 30 patients treated with magnetic stimulation plus LED therapy with Traumeel S ointment. Pain intensity was assessed using the VAS and Laitinen scales before and after a series of treatments. (3) Results: Significant results in terms of pain reduction before and after treatment were obtained in each of the study groups, as there were significant differences in the VAS pain intensity scores before and after the procedures between the groups. In group I, with electromagnetic field and LED light treatment, the difference was 35.5; in group II, which received Traumeel S® ointment, the difference was 18.5; and in group III, with electromagnetic field and LED light treatment as well as Traumeel S ointment, the difference was 26.5. In the Laitinen scale, the differences were insignificant, although the size distribution was similar. (4) Conclusions: The therapy used in this study showed that magnetic stimulation plus LED therapy and the use of Traumeel S ointment gave positive results in terms of pain reduction in each of the study groups. The strongest analgesic factor seems to be magnetic and LED therapies used separately. Traumeel S in magnetoledophoresis does not work synergistically with the magnetic field of LED light, and even worsens the effect of the therapy used.
What Influences Proprioceptive Impairments in Patients with Rheumatic Diseases? Analysis of Different Factors
Authors: Konarzewski Paweł , Konarzewska Urszula , Kuryliszyn-Moskal Anna , Terlikowski Robert , Pauk Jolanta , Daunoraviciene Kristina , Pauk Konrad , Dakowicz Agnieszka , Wojciuk Mariusz , Dzięcioł Janusz , Dziecioł-Anikiej Zofia
Published: February 2023

Rheumatic diseases lead to postural problems, which increase the risk of falls and lead to greater disability. The aim of the present work is to evaluate posture disorders in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as well as to evaluate the influence of other factors. A total of 71 subjects were enrolled in this study. Joint position sense (JPS) and the functional assessment of proprioception on a balance platform for both lower limbs were examined. The Average Trace Error (ATE), test time (t), and Average Platform Force Variation (AFV) were calculated. Additionally, an equilibrium test was carried out in the one-legged standing position (Single Leg Stance—SLS). The results were compared in several ways and revealed the following: (1) A JPS of 10° plantar flexion in RA obtained significantly worse results when repeating the movement than OA; the ATEs were significantly lower in RA; and RA needed more support during SLS assessment. (2) RA patients with higher DAS28 had statistically significantly higher values in JPS, with 5° plantar flexion and 10° dorsal flexion, SLS assessment, and stabilometric rates. A statistically significant correlation between DAS28 and RA was found in a JPS of 10° plantar flexion. The VAS ruler demonstrated a significant moderate correlation with t. (3) Patients who experienced at least one fall demonstrated higher JPS and t. Our study shows that proprioception is the most influenced by the nature of the disease and the level of disease activity. We can see that the stability and balance functions are also greatly influenced by the patient’s falling experience and the level of pain. These findings may be useful in designing an optimal proprioception-enhancing movement training plan.
Inorganic Contaminants in Plant-Based Yogurts Commercialized in Brazil
Authors: Rebellato Ana Paula , Fioravanti Maria Isabel Andrekowisk , Milani Raquel Fernanda , Morgano Marcelo Antonio
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the content of 11 inorganic elements (Al, Cr, Co, Ni, As, Mo, Cd, Sb, Ba, Hg, and Pb) in commercial plant-based and animal-based yogurts for comparison purposes. The samples were mineralized using a simple and fast ultrasound-assisted acid digestion method at 80 °C for 35 min, and the determination of inorganic elements was performed by ICP-MS. The method was validated according to the INMETRO guide, obtaining recoveries from 80 to 110%, precision from 6 to 15%, and a limit of quantification (LOQ) ranging from 200 µg/kg (Al) to 4 µg/kg (other elements). The element concentrations in the plant-based yogurts were Al(<LOQ-9019.05); Cr(<LOQ-88.14); Co(<LOQ-40.56); Ni(31.71-700.46); As(<LOQ-10.61); Mo(<LOQ-355.70); Cd(<LOQ-4.37); Sb and Hg(<LOQ); Ba(<LOQ-1505.71), and Pb(<LOQ-21.58) µg/kg. The elements Mo and Ba were quantified only in the animal-based yogurts, with levels of 72.54 and 160.76 µg/kg, respectively. The results showed a large variation in the concentration of inorganic elements, which demonstrates the importance of knowing the composition of plant-based foods to ensure the safety and health of consumers.
Economic Burden of Cervical and Head and Neck Cancer in Taiwan from a Societal Perspective
Authors: Wu Ying-Hui , Lai Chyong-Huey , Chien Ling , Pan Yun-Chung , Lin Yu-Jr , Feng Casey , Chang Chee-Jen
Published: February 2023

Background: Head and neck cancers (HNC) are increasingly recognized as important human papillomavirus (HPV)-related malignancies in addition to cervical cancer (CC). However, data on the socioeconomic impact of HNC and CC in Taiwan are limited. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to estimate the total direct medical cost and indirect productivity loss from CC and HNC between 2014 and 2015. Patient data from the Taiwan National Cancer Registry were analyzed, with matched non-cancer controls from the Taiwan National Healthcare Reimbursement Database. Indirect costs due to premature deaths were calculated using public data from Taiwanese government reports. Results: In the direct cost analysis, 2083 patients with newly diagnosed CC and 11,078 with newly diagnosed HNC (10,036 males) were identified between 2014 and 2015 and followed up through the end of 2016 or until death. The total direct medical costs incurred in 2014 and 2015 due to HNC were 11.54 times higher in males than in females, and 4.55 times higher than CC. Indirect cost analysis showed the total annual productivity loss was New Taiwan Dollar (NTD) $12 billion in 2019, and 79.99% was attributed to male HNC. Conclusion: In Taiwan, the socioeconomic burden associated with male HNC is high and greater than that seen with CC. While not all HNCs are attributable to HPV infection, prevention of HNC through HPV vaccination should be considered for both sexes.
Exploring Factors Affecting Crash Injury Severity with Consideration of Secondary Collisions in Freeway Tunnels
Authors: Chung Younshik , Kim Jong-Jin
Published: February 2023

Although there have been several studies conducted exploring the factors affecting injury severity in tunnel crashes, most studies have focused on identifying factors that directly influence injury severity. In particular, variables related to crash characteristics and tunnel characteristics affect the injury severity, but the inconvenient driving environment in a tunnel space, characterized by narrow space and dark lighting, can affect crash characteristics such as secondary collisions, which in turn can affect the injury severity. Moreover, studies on secondary collisions in freeway tunnels are very limited. The objective of this study was to explore factors affecting injury severity with the consideration of secondary collisions in freeway tunnel crashes. To account for complex relationships between multiple exogenous variables and endogenous variables by considering the direct and indirect relationships between them, this study used a structural equation modeling with tunnel crash data obtained from Korean freeway tunnels from 2013 to 2017. Moreover, based on high-definition closed-circuit televisions installed every 250 m to monitor incidents in Korean freeway tunnels, this study utilized unique crash characteristics such as secondary collisions. As a result, we found that tunnel characteristics indirectly affected injury severity through crash characteristics. In addition, one variable regarding crashes involving drivers younger than 40 years old was associated with decreased injury severity. By contrast, ten variables exhibited a higher likelihood of severe injuries: crashes by male drivers, crashes by trucks, crashes in March, crashes under sunny weather conditions, crashes on dry surface conditions, crashes in interior zones, crashes in wider tunnels, crashes in longer tunnels, rear-end collisions, and secondary collisions with other vehicles.
Psychological State and Exam Performance among Paramedics’ Students in Geneva during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Ozainne Florian , Rauss Lou , Stuby Loric
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic forced higher education institutions in Switzerland to move to distance learning, with certain limitations such as “Zoom fatigue” and a lack of interaction with peers and teachers. This has also impacted the development of interprofessional skills and key concepts such as professional acknowledgement, cooperation, and communication skills. This study was conducted using mixed methods, including performance assessment regarding examination notes, the 12-item General Health Questionnaire, and semi-structured interviews, to assess the impact of the pandemic on the performance of paramedic students and their psychological state. The results of the semi-structured interviews provided insight into the impact of the pandemic. The period of the COVID-19 pandemic appears to have had an impact on the psychological state of the paramedic students, most of whom were considered to be either at risk or in psychological distress. There may have been an effect on their theoretical knowledge performance, with pre-pandemic promotions performing better than pandemic promotions.
Effects of Policy for Controlling Agricultural Non-Point Source Pollution in China: From a Perspective of Regional and Policy Measures Differences
Authors: Hua Chunlin , Zhang Jiuhong , Long Zhiru , Woodward Richard T.
Published: February 2023

The concerns about the contradiction between agricultural production and Agricultural Non-Point (ANPS) pollution has become increased with economic development in China. Government interventions are key to controlling ANPS pollution through the establishment of laws and policies. This paper uses the entropy method to calculate the emissions amount of ANPS pollution and policy strength of 31 provinces from 2010 to 2019 in China. The dynamic panel data model with system generalized moment is used to estimate the impacts of policies with different measures on ANPS pollution emission. According to our findings, China’s policies have been helpful in controlling ANPS pollution though there are important regional differences. Moreover, four types of policy measures all contribute to the reduction in ANPS pollution. These findings improve our understanding of the relationship between policies and ANPS pollution in the analyzed period, thus providing support for the formulation of pollution management strategies in the next stage.
Age-Dependent Differences in Frequent Mental Distress (FMD) of US Older Adults Living in Multigenerational Families versus Living Alone
Authors: Das Gupta Debasree , Wong David W. S.
Published: February 2023

Frequent mental distress (FMD) is prevalent among older Americans, but less is known about disparities in FMD of older adults living in multigenerational families versus living alone. We pooled cross-sectional data (unweighted, n = 126,144) from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) between 2016 and 2020 and compared FMD (≥14 poor mental health days in the past 30 days = 1; 0 otherwise) of older adults (≥65 years) living in multigenerational families versus living alone in 36 states. After controlling for covariates, findings indicate 23% lower odds of FMD among older adults living in multigenerational households compared to counterparts living alone (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.77; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.60, 0.99). Findings also show that the reduction in the odds of FMD with each 5 year increase in age was larger among older adults living in multigenerational families by 18% (AOR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.46, 0.70) compared to older adults living alone (AOR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.71, 0.77), and this difference was significant at the 5% significance level. Multigenerational living may have a protective association with FMD among older adults. Further research is needed to identify multigenerational family and non-kin factors that translate into mental health advantages for older adults.
Making Transportation Systems in U.S. Cities Smarter and More Inclusive: A Synthesis of Challenges and Evaluation of Strategies
Authors: Wang Chihuangji , Yin Fuzhen , Zhao Yixuan , Yin Li
Published: February 2023

Smart City (SC) strategies developed by local governments reflect how governments and planners envision SC and apply smart technologies, and what challenges they face and try to address. Little attention, however, has been given to investigating SC strategies or applications, especially in the U.S. context. Moreover, there is insufficient attention paid to whether SC strategies address social issues such as equity and public participatory opportunities. Based on the documentation from the U.S. Department of Transportation 2015 Smart City Challenge, we developed a framework to evaluate SC strategies on urban transportation systems using six standards: Safety, Mobility, Sustainability, Opportunity, Efficiency, and Equity. In addition, we synthesized the challenges U.S. smart cities encounter, and SC strategies proposed by local municipal governments to tackle them. Our findings show that most SC strategies aimed to improve Efficiency (78%) and Mobility (57%), while less attention has been given to providing Equity (8%) or Opportunity (7%). The most well-acknowledged challenge that the local governments face is the limited data and tools for decision-making, with 416 SC strategies (27%) proposed to address related issues. Our framework and results contribute to the future SC strategy evaluation and inclusive smart city development. Our study also identified a broad spectrum of available SC strategies planners and policymakers can refer to when designing an SC or overcoming SC challenges.
Potential Loss of Ecosystem Service Value Due to Vessel Activity Expansion in Indonesian Marine Protected Areas
Authors: Fauzi Adam Irwansyah , Azizah Nur , Yati Emi , Atmojo Aulia Try , Rohman Arif , Putra Raden , Rahadianto Muhammad Ario Eko , Ramadhanti Desi , Ardani Nesya Hafiza , Robbani Balqis Falah , Nuha Muhammad Ulin , Perdana Agung Mahadi Putra , Sakti Anjar Dimara , Aufaristama Muhammad , Wikantika Ketut
Published: February 2023

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 14 pertains to the preservation of sustainable marine ecosystems by establishing marine protected areas (MPAs). However, studies have reported massive damage to Indonesian marine ecosystems due to shipping pollution, anchors, and fishing nets. Thus, this study estimated the potential loss of ecosystem service value due to vessel activity expansion in the MPAs of Indonesia. This study was divided into three stages. The first stage is vessel activity expansion zone modeling based on kernel density. The second stage is marine ecosystem service value modeling through semantic harmonization, reclassification, and spatial harmonization. The last stage is the overlay of the vessel expansion zone model, marine ecosystem service value model, and the MPA of Indonesia. The results of this study indicate that the marine neritic zone of Indonesia has an ecosystem service value of USD 814.23 billion, of which USD 159.87 billion (19.63%) are in the MPA. However, the increase in vessel activity that occurred in 2013–2018 could potentially lead to the loss of the ecosystem service value of USD 27.63 billion in 14 protected areas. These results can assist policymakers in determining priority conservation areas based on the threat of vessel activity and value of ecosystem services.
Land Use Change and Hotspot Identification in Harbin–Changchun Urban Agglomeration in China from 1990 to 2020
Authors: Chang Shouzhi , Zhao Jian , Jia Mingming , Mao Dehua , Wang Zongming , Hou Boyu
Published: February 2023

An urban agglomeration is a growth pole of regional development. However, the land uses have changed significantly due to the impacts of intense human activities. Analyzing the overall change characteristics of land use and hotspots has direct reference value for the formulation and implementation of land use management measures. This study used a complex network of analysis methods and a cluster and outlier analysis to study the land use changes and hotspots in the Harbin–Changchun urban agglomeration (HCUA). The results showed that farmland exhibited a high weighted degree of centrality, indicating that it is the key land type in the HCUA land use change network. From 1990 to 2000, the land use change in each city mainly manifested as the loss of ecological land, whereas from 2000 to 2010 it manifested as the restoration of ecological land. From 1990 to 2020, the average path length of the network in 11 cities was less than 1.4, which was reduced in 10 cities, indicating that the stability weakened and land use change more likely occurred. Specifically, the area of ecological land reduction hotspots gradually decreased from 15,237.81 km2 to 11,533.95 km2. In the ecological land concentration area, the change hotspots for ecological land use and ecological function had strong consistency. The distribution and changes of hotspots were affected by policies and the terrain. The increase in ecological land around urban built-up areas, however, did not improve the landscape connectivity. Therefore, in the planning of ecological land use, attention should be paid to the landscape pattern.
New Biomarkers Based on Dendritic Cells for Breast Cancer Treatment and Prognosis Diagnosis
Authors: Zhao Fanjia , Yan Fang , Liu Haihong
Published: February 2023

Dendritic cells(DCs) play a protective role in the antitumor immunity of most cancers, which can be divided into conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). Most current studies are only based on either cDCs or pDCs for the study of the relationship between DCs and breast cancer prognosis, without combining the two together. We aimed to select new biomarkers from pDCs and cDCs. In this paper, the xCell algorithm was first used to calculate the cellular abundance of 64 types of immune cells and stromal cells in tumor samples from the TCGA database, and the high-abundance pDC group and cDC group were divided according to the results of a survival analysis. Then, we looked for the co-expressed gene module of highly infiltrating pDC and cDC patients with a weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and screened out the hub genes, including RBBP5, HNRNPU, PEX19, TPR, and BCL9. Finally, we analyzed the biological functions of the hub genes, and the results showed that RBBP5, TPR, and BCL9 were significantly related to the immune cells and prognosis of patients, and RBBP5 and BCL9 were involved in responding to TCF-related instructions of the Wnt pathway. In addition, we also evaluated the response of pDCs and cDCs with different abundances to chemotherapy, and the results showed that the higher the abundance of pDCs and cDCs, the higher their sensitivity to drugs. This paper revealed new biomarkers related to DCs—among them, BCL9, TPR, and RBBP5 were proven to be closely related to dendritic cells in cancer. For the first time, this paper puts forward that HNRNPU and PEX19 are related to the prognosis of dendritic cells in cancer, which also provides new possibilities for finding new targets for breast cancer immunotherapy.
Molecular Dynamic Studies of Dye–Dye and Dye–DNA Interactions Governing Excitonic Coupling in Squaraine Aggregates Templated by DNA Holliday Junctions
Authors: Barcenas German , Biaggne Austin , Mass Olga A. , Knowlton William B. , Yurke Bernard , Li Lan
Published: February 2023

Dye molecules, arranged in an aggregate, can display excitonic delocalization. The use of DNA scaffolding to control aggregate configurations and delocalization is of research interest. Here, we applied Molecular Dynamics (MD) to gain an insight on how dye–DNA interactions affect excitonic coupling between two squaraine (SQ) dyes covalently attached to a DNA Holliday junction (HJ). We studied two types of dimer configurations, i.e., adjacent and transverse, which differed in points of dye covalent attachments to DNA. Three structurally different SQ dyes with similar hydrophobicity were chosen to investigate the sensitivity of excitonic coupling to dye placement. Each dimer configuration was initialized in parallel and antiparallel arrangements in the DNA HJ. The MD results, validated by experimental measurements, suggested that the adjacent dimer promotes stronger excitonic coupling and less dye–DNA interaction than the transverse dimer. Additionally, we found that SQ dyes with specific functional groups (i.e., substituents) facilitate a closer degree of aggregate packing via hydrophobic effects, leading to a stronger excitonic coupling. This work advances a fundamental understanding of the impacts of dye–DNA interactions on aggregate orientation and excitonic coupling.
Structural and Functional Implication of Natural Variants of Gαs
Authors: Jeong Yejin , Chung Ka Young
Published: February 2023

Heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) are among the most important cellular signaling components, especially G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). G proteins comprise three subunits, Gα, Gβ, and Gγ. Gα is the key subunit, and its structural state regulates the active status of G proteins. Interaction of guanosine diphosphate (GDP) or guanosine triphosphate (GTP) with Gα switches G protein into basal or active states, respectively. Genetic alteration in Gα could be responsible for the development of various diseases due to its critical role in cell signaling. Specifically, loss-of-function mutations of Gαs are associated with parathyroid hormone-resistant syndrome such as inactivating parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTH/PTHrP) signaling disorders (iPPSDs), whereas gain-of-function mutations of Gαs are associated with McCune–Albright syndrome and tumor development. In the present study, we analyzed the structural and functional implications of natural variants of the Gαs subtype observed in iPPSDs. Although a few tested natural variants did not alter the structure and function of Gαs, others induced drastic conformational changes in Gαs, resulting in improper folding and aggregation of the proteins. Other natural variants induced only mild conformational changes but altered the GDP/GTP exchange kinetics. Therefore, the results shed light on the relationship between natural variants of Gα and iPPSDs.
Identification of a Rice Leaf Width Gene Narrow Leaf 22 (NAL22) through Genome-Wide Association Study and Gene Editing Technology
Authors: Xu Yuchen , Yan Shuangyong , Jiang Su , Bai Lu , Liu Yanchen , Peng Shasha , Chen Rubin , Liu Qi , Xiao Yinghui , Kang Houxiang
Published: February 2023

Rice leaf width (RLW) is a crucial determinant of photosynthetic area. Despite the discovery of several genes controlling RLW, the underlying genetic architecture remains unclear. In order to better understand RLW, this study conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on 351 accessions from the rice diversity population II (RDP-II). The results revealed 12 loci associated with leaf width (LALW). In LALW4, we identified one gene, Narrow Leaf 22 (NAL22), whose polymorphisms and expression levels were associated with RLW variation. Knocking out this gene in Zhonghua11, using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology, resulted in a short and narrow leaf phenotype. However, seed width remained unchanged. Additionally, we discovered that the vein width and expression levels of genes associated with cell division were suppressed in nal22 mutants. Gibberellin (GA) was also found to negatively regulate NAL22 expression and impact RLW. In summary, we dissected the genetic architecture of RLW and identified a gene, NAL22, which provides new loci for further RLW studies and a target gene for leaf shape design in modern rice breeding.
Many Faces of Next-Generation Sequencing in Gene Expression Studies
Authors: Malygin Alexey A.
Published: February 2023

Gene expression is a fundamental cellular process that ensures the transfer of information encoded in a gene into the final functional product [...]
Genome-Wide Identification, Classification, and Expression Analyses of the CsDGAT Gene Family in Cannabis sativa L. and Their Response to Cold Treatment
Authors: Yan Bowei , Chang Chuanyi , Gu Yingnan , Zheng Nan , Fang Yuyan , Zhang Ming , Wang Guijiang , Zhang Liguo
Published: February 2023

Hempseed is a nutrient-rich natural resource, and high levels of hempseed oil accumulate within hemp seeds, consisting primarily of different triglycerides. Members of the diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) enzyme family play critical roles in catalyzing triacylglycerol biosynthesis in plants, often governing the rate-limiting step in this process. As such, this study was designed to characterize the Cannabis sativa DGAT (CsDGAT) gene family in detail. Genomic analyses of the C. sativa revealed 10 candidate DGAT genes that were classified into four families (DGAT1, DGAT2, DGAT3, WS/DGAT) based on the features of different isoforms. Members of the CsDGAT family were found to be associated with large numbers of cis-acting promoter elements, including plant response elements, plant hormone response elements, light response elements, and stress response elements, suggesting roles for these genes in key processes such as development, environmental adaptation, and abiotic stress responses. Profiling of these genes in various tissues and varieties revealed varying spatial patterns of CsDGAT expression dynamics and differences in expression among C. sativa varieties, suggesting that the members of this gene family likely play distinct functional regulatory functions CsDGAT genes were upregulated in response to cold stress, and significant differences in the mode of regulation were observed when comparing roots and leaves, indicating that CsDGAT genes may play positive roles as regulators of cold responses in hemp while also playing distinct roles in shaping the responses of different parts of hemp seedlings to cold exposure. These data provide a robust basis for further functional studies of this gene family, supporting future efforts to screen the significance of CsDGAT candidate genes to validate their functions to improve hempseed oil composition.
Vitamin D3 Metabolism and Its Role in Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis and Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases
Authors: Szulc Michał , Świątkowska-Stodulska Renata , Pawłowska Elżbieta , Derwich Marcin
Published: February 2023

The aim of this review was to present the metabolism of vitamin D3, as well as to discuss the role of vitamin D3 in bone metabolism, temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA), and autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD) on the basis of the literature. Vitamin D3 plays a significant role in human health, as it affects the calcium-phosphate balance and regulates the bone metabolism. Calcitriol impresses the pleiotropic effect on human biology and metabolism. Its modulative function upon the immune system is based on the reduction of Th1 cell activity and increased immunotolerance. Vitamin D3 deficiency may lead to an imbalance in the relationship between Th1/Th17 and Th2, Th17/Th reg, and is considered by some authors as one of the possible backgrounds of autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD), e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. Moreover, vitamin D3, through its direct and indirect influence on bones and joints, may also play an important role in the development and progression of degenerative joint diseases, including temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. Further randomized, double blind studies are needed to unequivocally confirm the relationship between vitamin D3 and abovementioned diseases and to answer the question concerning whether vitamin D3 supplementation may be used in the prevention and/or treatment of either AITD or OA diseases.
Activation of Endothelial Large Conductance Potassium Channels Protects against TNF-α-Induced Inflammation
Authors: Zyrianova Tatiana , Zou Kathlyn , Lopez Benjamin , Liao Andy , Gu Charles , Olcese Riccardo , Schwingshackl Andreas
Published: February 2023

Elevated TNF-α levels in serum and broncho-alveolar lavage fluid of acute lung injury patients correlate with mortality rates. We hypothesized that pharmacological plasma membrane potential (Em) hyperpolarization protects against TNF-α-induced CCL-2 and IL-6 secretion from human pulmonary endothelial cells through inhibition of inflammatory Ca2+-dependent MAPK pathways. Since the role of Ca2+ influx in TNF-α-mediated inflammation remains poorly understood, we explored the role of L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ (CaV) channels in TNF-α-induced CCL-2 and IL-6 secretion from human pulmonary endothelial cells. The CaV channel blocker, Nifedipine, decreased both CCL-2 and IL-6 secretion, suggesting that a fraction of CaV channels is open at the significantly depolarized resting Em of human microvascular pulmonary endothelial cells (−6 ± 1.9 mV), as shown by whole-cell patch-clamp measurements. To further explore the role of CaV channels in cytokine secretion, we demonstrated that the beneficial effects of Nifedipine could also be achieved by Em hyperpolarization via the pharmacological activation of large conductance K+ (BK) channels with NS1619, which elicited a similar decrease in CCL-2 but not IL-6 secretion. Using functional gene enrichment analysis tools, we predicted and validated that known Ca2+-dependent kinases, JNK-1/2 and p38, are the most likely pathways to mediate the decrease in CCL-2 secretion.
Integrative Roles of Dopamine Pathway and Calcium Channels Reveal a Link between Schizophrenia and Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Thiagarajan Siroshini K. , Mok Siew Ying , Ogawa Satoshi , Parhar Ishwar S. , Tang Pek Yee
Published: February 2023

Several theories have been proposed to explain the mechanisms of substance use in schizophrenia. Brain neurons pose a potential to provide novel insights into the association between opioid addiction, withdrawal, and schizophrenia. Thus, we exposed zebrafish larvae at 2 days post-fertilization (dpf) to domperidone (DPM) and morphine, followed by morphine withdrawal. Drug-induced locomotion and social preference were assessed, while the level of dopamine and the number of dopaminergic neurons were quantified. In the brain tissue, the expression levels of genes associated with schizophrenia were measured. The effects of DMP and morphine were compared to vehicle control and MK-801, a positive control to mimic schizophrenia. Gene expression analysis revealed that α1C, α1Sa, α1Aa, drd2a, and th1 were up-regulated after 10 days of exposure to DMP and morphine, while th2 was down-regulated. These two drugs also increased the number of positive dopaminergic neurons and the total dopamine level but reduced the locomotion and social preference. The termination of morphine exposure led to the up-regulation of th2, drd2a, and c-fos during the withdrawal phase. Our integrated data implicate that the dopamine system plays a key role in the deficits in social behavior and locomotion that are common in the schizophrenia-like symptoms and opioid dependence.
Genome-Wide Characterization of the PIFs Family in Sweet Potato and Functional Identification of IbPIF3.1 under Drought and Fusarium Wilt Stresses
Authors: Nie Nan , Huo Jinxi , Sun Sifan , Zuo Zhidan , Chen Yanqi , Liu Qingchang , He Shaozhen , Gao Shaopei , Zhang Huan , Zhao Ning , Zhai Hong
Published: February 2023

Phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs) are essential for plant growth, development, and defense responses. However, research on the PIFs in sweet potato has been insufficient to date. In this study, we identified PIF genes in the cultivated hexaploid sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) and its two wild relatives, Ipomoea triloba, and Ipomoea trifida. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that IbPIFs could be divided into four groups, showing the closest relationship with tomato and potato. Subsequently, the PIFs protein properties, chromosome location, gene structure, and protein interaction network were systematically analyzed. RNA-Seq and qRT-PCR analyses showed that IbPIFs were mainly expressed in stem, as well as had different gene expression patterns in response to various stresses. Among them, the expression of IbPIF3.1 was strongly induced by salt, drought, H2O2, cold, heat, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. batatas (Fob), and stem nematodes, indicating that IbPIF3.1 might play an important role in response to abiotic and biotic stresses in sweet potato. Further research revealed that overexpression of IbPIF3.1 significantly enhanced drought and Fusarium wilt tolerance in transgenic tobacco plants. This study provides new insights for understanding PIF-mediated stress responses and lays a foundation for future investigation of sweet potato PIFs.
MSX1 Regulates Goat Endometrial Function by Altering the Plasma Membrane Transformation of Endometrial Epithelium Cells during Early Pregnancy
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Wang Zongjie , Gao Kangkang , Fu Rao , Chen Huatao , Lin Pengfei , Wang Aihua , Jin Yaping
Published: February 2023

MSX1 is an important member of the muscle segment homeobox gene (Msh) family and acts as a transcription factor to regulate tissue plasticity, yet its role in goat endometrium remodeling remains elusive. In this study, an immunohistochemical analysis showed that MSX1 was mainly expressed in the luminal and glandular epithelium of goat uterus, and the MSX1 expression was upregulated in pregnancy at days 15 and 18 compared with pregnancy at day 5. In order to explore its function, goat endometrial epithelial cells (gEECs) were treated with 17 β-estrogen (E2), progesterone (P4), and/or interferon-tau (IFNτ), which were used to mimic the physiological environment of early pregnancy. The results showed that MSX1 was significantly upregulated with E2- and P4-alone treatment, or their combined treatment, and IFNτ further enhanced its expression. The spheroid attachment and PGE2/PGF2α ratio were downregulated by the suppression of MSX1. The combination of E2, P4, and IFNτ treatment induced the plasma membrane transformation (PMT) of gEECs, which mainly showed the upregulation of N-cadherin (CDH2) and concomitant downregulation of the polarity-related genes (ZO-1, α-PKC, Par3, Lgl2, and SCRIB). The knockdown of MSX1 partly hindered the PMT induced by E2, P4, and IFNτ treatment, while the upregulation of CDH2 and the downregulation of the partly polarity-related genes were significantly enhanced when MSX1 was overexpressed. Moreover, MSX1 regulated the CDH2 expression by activating the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway. Collectively, these results suggest that MSX1 was involved in the PMT of the gEECs through the ER stress-mediated UPR pathway, which affects endometrial adhesion and secretion function.
Application of Gold Nanoparticles as Radiosensitizer for Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Soares Sílvia , Faria Isabel , Aires Fátima , Monteiro Armanda , Pinto Gabriela , Sales Maria Goreti , Correa-Duarte Miguel A. , Guerreiro Susana G. , Fernandes Rúben
Published: February 2023

More than 50% of all prostate cancer (PCa) patients are treated by radiotherapy (RT). Radioresistance and cancer recurrence are two consequences of the therapy and are related to dose heterogeneity and non-selectivity between normal and tumoral cells. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) could be used as potential radiosensitizers to overcome these therapeutic limitations of RT. This study assessed the biological interaction of different morphologies of AuNPs with ionizing radiation (IR) in PCa cells. To achieve that aim, three different amine-pegylated AuNPs were synthesized with distinct sizes and shapes (spherical, AuNPsp-PEG, star, AuNPst-PEG, and rods, AuNPr-PEG) and viability, injury and colony assays were used to analyze their biological effect on PCa cells (PC3, DU145, and LNCaP) when submitted to the accumulative fraction of RT. The combinatory effect of AuNPs with IR decreased cell viability and increased apoptosis compared to cells treated only with IR or untreated cells. Additionally, our results showed an increase in the sensitization enhancement ratio by cells treated with AuNPs and IR, and this effect is cell line dependent. Our findings support that the design of AuNPs modulated their cellular behavior and suggested that AuNPs could improve the RT efficacy in PCa cells.
Thermo-Electro-Chemo-Mechanical Coupled Modeling of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell with LSCF-GDC Composite Cathode
Authors: Cai Weiqiang , Zheng Qingrong , Yuan Jinliang , Yu Wanneng , Yin Zibin , Wu Yu , Zhang Zhonggang
Published: February 2023

Intricate relationships between transport phenomena, reaction mechanisms, and mechanical aspects likely affect the durability of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack. This study presents a modeling framework that combines thermo-electro-chemo models (including the methanol conversion process and the electrochemical reactions of the carbon monoxide as well as the hydrogen) and a contact thermo-mechanical model that considers the effective mechanical properties of composite electrode material. Detailed parametric studies are performed focusing on the inlet fuel species (hydrogen, methanol syngas) and flow arrangements (co-flow, counter-flow) under typical operating conditions (operating voltage 0.7 V), and performance indicators of the cell, such as the high-temperature zone, current density, and maximum thermal stress were discussed for parameter optimization. The simulated results show that the high temperature zone of the hydrogen-fueled SOFC is located at the central part of units 5, 6, and 7, and the maximum value is about 40 K higher than that of methanol syngas-fueled SOFC. The charge transfer reactions can occur throughout the cathode layer. The counter-flow improves the trend of the current density distribution of hydrogen-fueled SOFC, while the effect on the current density distribution of methanol syngas-fueled SOFC is small. The distribution characteristics of the stress field within SOFC are extremely complex, and the inhomogeneity of the stress field distribution can be effectively improved by feeding methanol syngas. The counter-flow improves the stress distribution state of the electrolyte layer of methanol syngas-fueled SOFC, and the maximum tensile stress value is reduced by about 37.7%.
N-Glycan on the Non-Consensus N-X-C Glycosylation Site Impacts Activity, Stability, and Localization of the Sda Synthase B4GALNT2
Authors: Cogez Virginie , Vicogne Dorothée , Schulz Céline , Portier Lucie , Venturi Giulia , de Ruyck Jérôme , Decloquement Mathieu , Lensink Marc F. , Brysbaert Guillaume , Dall’Olio Fabio , Groux-Degroote Sophie , Harduin-Lepers Anne
Published: February 2023

The Sda carbohydrate epitope and its biosynthetic B4GALNT2 enzyme are expressed in the healthy colon and down-regulated to variable extents in colon cancer. The human B4GALNT2 gene drives the expression of a long and a short protein isoform (LF-B4GALNT2 and SF-B4GALNT2) sharing identical transmembrane and luminal domains. Both isoforms are trans-Golgi proteins and the LF-B4GALNT2 also localizes to post-Golgi vesicles thanks to its extended cytoplasmic tail. Control mechanisms underpinning Sda and B4GALNT2 expression in the gastrointestinal tract are complex and not fully understood. This study reveals the existence of two unusual N-glycosylation sites in B4GALNT2 luminal domain. The first atypical N-X-C site is evolutionarily conserved and occupied by a complex-type N-glycan. We explored the influence of this N-glycan using site-directed mutagenesis and showed that each mutant had a slightly decreased expression level, impaired stability, and reduced enzyme activity. Furthermore, we observed that the mutant SF-B4GALNT2 was partially mislocalized in the endoplasmic reticulum, whereas the mutant LF-B4GALNT2 was still localized in the Golgi and post-Golgi vesicles. Lastly, we showed that the formation of homodimers was drastically impaired in the two mutated isoforms. An AlphaFold2 model of the LF-B4GALNT2 dimer with an N-glycan on each monomer corroborated these findings and suggested that N-glycosylation of each B4GALNT2 isoform controlled their biological activity.
Silver-Based Surface Plasmon Sensors: Fabrication and Applications
Authors: Li Yinghao , Liao Qingwei , Hou Wei , Qin Lei
Published: February 2023

A series of novel phenomena such as optical nonlinear enhancement effect, transmission enhancement, orientation effect, high sensitivity to refractive index, negative refraction and dynamic regulation of low threshold can be generated by the control of surface plasmon (SP) with metal micro-nano structure and metal/material composite structure. The application of SP in nano-photonics, super-resolution imaging, energy, sensor detection, life science, and other fields shows an important prospect. Silver nanoparticles are one of the commonly used metal materials for SP because of their high sensitivity to refractive index change, convenient synthesis, and high controllable degree of shape and size. In this review, the basic concept, fabrication, and applications of silver-based surface plasmon sensors are summarized.
Analysis of Selected Salivary Adipokines and Cytokines in Patients with Obesity—A Pilot Study
Authors: Ostrowska Lucyna , Smarkusz-Zarzecka Joanna , Gornowicz Agnieszka , Lendzion Karolina , Zyśk Beata , Pogodziński Damian
Published: February 2023

Obesity is a chronic, progressive and relapsing disease that produces many adverse health, social and economic effects. The aim of the study was to analyse the concentrations of selected proinflammatory parameters in the saliva of obese and normal body weight individuals. The study included 116 people divided into two groups: the study group (n = 75, subjects with obesity) and the control group (n = 41, individuals with normal body weight). Bioelectrical impedance analysis was performed, and saliva samples were collected from all study participants to determine the concentrations of selected proinflammatory adipokines and cytokines. Statistically significantly higher concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9 and IL-1β were found in the saliva of obese women compared to women with normal body weight. Furthermore, statistically significantly higher concentrations of MMP-9, IL-6 and resistin were observed in the saliva of obese men compared to men with normal body weight. Higher concentrations of selected proinflammatory cytokines and adipokines were found in the saliva of obese individuals compared to individuals with normal body weight. It is likely that higher concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9 and IL-1β can be detected in the saliva of obese women compared to non-obese women, while higher concentrations of MMP-9, IL-6 and resistin can be found in the saliva of obese men compared to non-obese men, which suggests that further research to confirm our observations and determine the mechanisms of development of metabolic complications associated with obesity depending on gender is needed.
Genome-Wide Analysis of SIMILAR TO RCD ONE (SRO) Family Revealed Their Roles in Abiotic Stress in Poplar
Authors: Wang Yuting , Wang Ruiqi , Yu Yue , Gu Yongmei , Wang Shuang , Liao Shixian , Xu Xiaoya , Jiang Tingbo , Yao Wenjing
Published: February 2023

SIMILAR TO RCD ONE (SRO) gene family is a small plant-specific gene family responsible for growth, development, and stress responses. In particular, it plays a vital role in responding to abiotic stresses such as salt, drought, and heavy metals. Poplar SROs are rarely reported to date. In this study, a total of nine SRO genes were identified from Populus simonii × Populus nigra, which are more similar to dicotyledon SRO members. According to phylogenetic analysis, the nine PtSROs can be divided into two groups, and the members in the same cluster have a similar structure. There were some cis-regulatory elements related to abiotic stress response and hormone-induced factors identified in the promoter regions of PtSROs members. Subcellular localization and transcriptional activation activity of PtSRO members revealed a consistent expression profile of the genes with similar structural profiles. In addition, both RT-qPCR and RNA-Seq results indicated that PtSRO members responded to PEG-6000, NaCl, and ABA stress in the roots and leaves of Populus simonii × Populus nigra. The PtSRO genes displayed different expression patterns and peaked at different time points in the two tissues, which was more significant in the leaves. Among them, PtSRO1c and PtSRO2c were more prominent in response to abiotic stress. Furthermore, protein interaction prediction showed that the nine PtSROs might interact with a broad range of transcription factors (TFs) involved in stress responses. In conclusion, the study provides a solid basis for functional analysis of the SRO gene family in abiotic stress responses in poplar.
The Crosstalk between Intestinal Epithelial Cells and Mast Cells Is Modulated by the Probiotic Supplementation in Co-Culture Models
Authors: di Vito Raffaella , Di Mezza Alessia , Conte Carmela , Traina Giovanna
Published: February 2023

The intestinal epithelium constitutes a selectively permeable barrier between the internal and external environment that allows the absorption of nutrients, electrolytes, and water, as well as an effective defense against intraluminal bacteria, toxins, and potentially antigenic material. Experimental evidence suggest that intestinal inflammation is critically dependent on an imbalance of homeostasis between the gut microbiota and the mucosal immune system. In this context, mast cells play a crucial role. The intake of specific probiotic strains can prevent the development of gut inflammatory markers and activation of the immune system. Here, the effect of a probiotic formulation containing L. rhamnosus LR 32, B. lactis BL04, and B. longum BB 536 on intestinal epithelial cells and mast cells was investigated. To mimic the natural host compartmentalization, Transwell co-culture models were set up. Co-cultures of intestinal epithelial cells interfaced with the human mast cell line HMC-1.2 in the basolateral chamber were challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and then treated with probiotics. In the HT29/HMC-1.2 co-culture, the probiotic formulation was able to counteract the LPS-induced release of interleukin 6 from HMC-1.2, and was effective in preserving the epithelial barrier integrity in the HT29/Caco-2/ HMC-1.2 co-culture. The results suggest the potential therapeutic effect of the probiotic formulation.