bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agrocybe aegerita Polysaccharide Combined with Bifidobacterium lactis Bb-12 Attenuates Aging-Related Oxidative Stress and Restores Gut Microbiota
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Feng Yanyu , Zhen Hongmin , Zhao Lina , Wu Hongqiang , Liu Bin , Fan Guangsen , Tong Aijun
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study was to examine the impacts of the combing of Agrocybe aegerita polysaccharides (AAPS) with Bifidobacterium lactis Bb-12 (Bb-12) on antioxidant activity, anti-aging properties, and modulation of gut microbiota. The results demonstrated that the AAPS and Bb-12 complex significantly increased the average lifespan of male and female Drosophila melanogaster under natural aging conditions (p < 0.05), with an improvement of 8.42% and 9.79%, respectively. Additionally, the complex enhanced their climbing ability and increased antioxidant enzyme activity, protecting them from oxidative damage induced by H2O2. In D-galactose induced aging mice, the addition of AAPS and Bb-12 resulted in significantly increase in antioxidant enzyme activity, regulation of aging-related biomarker levels, changed gut microbiota diversity, restoration of microbial structure, and increased abundance of beneficial bacteria, particularly lactobacilli, in the intestines. These findings suggested that the complex of AAPS and Bb-12 had the potential to serve as a dietary supplement against organism aging and oxidative stress.
An Assessment of Intra- and Interobserver Error in Luminol Chemiluminescence as a Presumptive Test for Postmortem Interval Estimation
Authors: Ermida Catarina , Rosa Joana , Cunha Eugénia , Ferreira Maria Teresa
Published: December 2023

Postmortem interval (PMI) estimation constitutes a challenge for forensic anthropologists. The application of the luminol technique as a preliminary test for PMI estimation is considered easy to use and inexpensive. The objective of our study is to validate luminol chemiluminescence testing through the assessment of intra- and interobserver error. Our sample included 266 human clavicles, with known PMIs ranging between 2655 days and 450 years. After sample preparation, luminol was applied, and the results were observed by two different observers. The intensity of the reaction was measured using a binary scale and a 5-level scale, according to the increasing degree of chemiluminescence. The Kappa statistic was used for the assessment of the intra- and interobserver agreement. The obtained results showed total interobserver error agreement regarding the binary scale and a K = 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97–0.99) regarding the 5-level scale. Additionally, Observer 1 and Observer 2 obtained a 100% agreement concerning the binary scale and a K = 1 (95%CI 0.99–1) and K = 0.99 (95% CI 0.99–1), respectively, concerning the 5-level scale. According to our research, it is possible to conclude that luminol chemiluminescence testing is suitable as a rapid diagnostic test, revealing this method as practically independent of observation error.
Analytic Functions Related to a Balloon-Shaped Domain
Authors: Ahmad Adeel , Gong Jianhua , Al-Shbeil Isra , Rasheed Akhter , Ali Asad , Hussain Saqib
Published: December 2023

One of the fundamental parts of Geometric Function Theory is the study of analytic functions in different domains with critical geometrical interpretations. This article defines a new generalized domain obtained based on the quotient of two analytic functions. We derive various properties of the new class of normalized analytic functions X defined in the new domain, including the sharp estimates for the coefficients a2,a3, and a4, and for three second-order and third-order Hankel determinants, H2,1X,H2,2X, and H3,1X. The optimality of each obtained estimate is given as well.
Kelp Wanted?! Understanding the Drivers of US Consumers’ Willingness to Buy and Their Willingness to Pay a Price Premium for Sea Vegetables
Authors: Rombach Meike , Botero Julio , Dean David L.
Published: December 2023

Lifestyle changes towards sustainable and healthy diets have given rise to superfoods. Sea vegetables, which are otherwise known as edible seaweeds fall in the category of superfoods and are perceived as sustainable and ethical food options. The present study is dedicated to US consumers’ willingness to buy and their willingness to pay a price premium for sea vegetables, providing insights and best-practice recommendations for marketing managers in the US food retail and gastronomy. An online consumer survey was distributed to explore predictors explaining willingness to buy and pay a price premium. Food engagement, food attributes, consumer knowledge, and health importance were the investigated predictors covered in the survey. Descriptive statistics and partial least square structural equation modelling were used to analyze the data. Food engagement and sea vegetable intrinsic and extrinsic attributes were identified as the strongest predictors for both willingness to buy and to pay a price premium. In contrast, health importance only influenced willingness to buy, and consumer knowledge only influenced willingness to pay a price premium. By focusing on the forms of consumer behavior with high commitment and exploring and validating the factors driving these consumers’ behaviors, the study fills an important research gap.
STXBP1-Related Disorders: Clinical Presentation, Molecular Function, Treatment, and Future Directions
Authors: Freibauer Alexander , Wohlleben Mikayla , Boelman Cyrus
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the affordability and availability of genetic testing have led to its increased use in clinical care. The increased frequency of testing has led to STXBP1 variants being identified as one of the more common variants associated with neurological disorders. In this review, we aim to summarize the common clinical phenotypes associated with STXBP1 pathogenic variants, provide an overview of their known natural history, and discuss current research into the genotype to phenotype correlation. We will also provide an overview of the suspected normal function of the STXBP1-encoded Munc18-1 protein, animal models, and experimental techniques that have been developed to study its function and use this information to try to explain the diverse phenotypes associated with STXBP1-related disorders. Finally, we will explore current therapies for STXBP1 disorders, including an overview of treatment goals for STXBP1-related disorders, a discussion of the current evidence for therapies, and future directions of personalized medications for STXBP1-related disorders.
“The Subtle Craft of the Devil”: Misogynistic Conspiracy Theories and the Secret Society of Pregnancy Cravings in E. T. A. Hoffmann’s Vampirism
Authors: Kellermeyer Michael Grant
Published: December 2023

This paper analyzes themes of male insecurities and distrust of the exclusive culture of female sexuality and reproduction in E. T. A. Hoffmann’s Vampirism, one of the earliest psychologically sophisticated female vampires in Western literature. The doomed heroine, Aurelia, escapes a life of maternal abuse and sexual trauma by marrying the wealthy Count Hippolytus, but his attraction warps into suspicion when she becomes pregnant and loses her appetite for his food. Worried that losing her virginity has activated promiscuity inherited from her late mother, he begins following her and thinks he sees her conspiring with a coven of female ghouls who train her to satisfy her pregnancy cravings by feeding on a male corpse. Real or imagined, this vision confirms his suspicions and leads to their mutual destruction. In my analysis, I explore vampire literature’s early history, its place within Gothic literature, the prominent role of female vampires, their relationship to gender anxieties exacerbated by the Romantic Era’s subversive political movements, and the way in which Hoffmann’s cynical story operates as a misogynistic conspiracy theory aimed at the secret female space of reproduction, symbolized by Aurelia’s cannibalistic pregnancy cravings. As such, it contributes to the destructive folklore of social distrust.
Exploring the Factors behind Nurses’ Decision to Leave Clinical Practice: Revealing Causes for Leaving and Approaches for Enhanced Retention
Authors: Alanazi Raeed , Bahari Ghareeb , Alzahrani Zahra Ali , Alhaidary Abdulelah , Alharbi Kholoud , Albagawi Bander Saad , Alanazi Naif H.
Published: December 2023

Nursing turnover has emerged as an urgent concern with a substantial influence on the financial efficiency and quality of care in healthcare frameworks worldwide. This study determined important factors associated with nurses’ intentions to leave and what would bring them back. This was a cross-sectional, multisite study of nurses in three public hospitals. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 205 nurses from the selected hospitals. A questionnaire was used to measure demographic and professional background information, current job satisfaction, and the intention to leave work and return. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were run using SPSS. This study revealed that both job satisfaction (M = 47.26, SD = 11.59, range: 19–76) and intent to leave a current job (M = 14.18, SD = 4.36, range: 4–20) were reported at moderate levels. There were significant differences reported between the scores of nationality and job satisfaction (p < 0.05) and between the means of income level and intention to leave (p < 0.05). There was also a significant, negative association between satisfaction and intention to leave (r = −0.551, p < 0.05). In regression, income level (β = 0.159, p = 0.021), incentives (β = 0.186, p = 0.002), hospital type (β = 0.189, p = 0.005), and intention to leave (β = −0.454, p < 0.001) significantly influenced satisfaction. Gender (β = −0.122, p = 0.037) and nationality (β = −0.210, p = 0.007) were found to influence the intention to leave among participants significantly. In conclusion, this study indicated that job satisfaction and intention to leave are important factors affecting nurses’ enthusiasm. Incentives also had a positive impact on increasing nurses’ satisfaction levels. Future research studies should investigate what factors might lead to improved monthly salaries and provide more incentives among nurses.
Mandibular Cortical Bone Evaluation in a Healthy Paediatric Population
Authors: Kotsanti Marilena , Mitsea Anastasia , Christoloukas Nikolaos , Seremidi Kyriaki , Gizani Sotiria
Published: December 2023

Background: Changes in mandibular cortical bone have been documented in children with chronic diseases but not in healthy populations. Aim: We aimed to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the mandibular cortical bone of a healthy paediatric population using dental panoramic radiographs (DPTs). The secondary objective was to assess the effect of dental status on cortical bone. Design: The DPTs of 660 individuals, aged 6–18 years, were evaluated by two blinded examiners. Bone was qualitatively categorized according to the Mandibular Cortical Index (MCI), and its width was calculated using the Mandibular Cortical Width Index (MCW). Differences between gender and age were tested using Fisher’s exact and correlation with dental status with the chi-square test. Results: A significant correlation was observed between bone morphology and gender, with girls having more frequent even and sharp endosteal margins than boys, who showed semilunar defects. The degree of erosion increased with age, as did bone thickness. A positive correlation between thickness and type of dentition was recorded, with normal bone predominating in children in the mixed dentition stage. Νο correlation was found between bone morphology or thickness and the factors associated with dental status. Conclusions: Bone quality and quantity vary significantly between different genders and age groups. Dental needs and treatment characteristics did not seem to affect the above parameters.
Assessment of the Prescribing Pharmacist’s Role in Supporting Access to Prescription-Only Medicines—Metadata Analysis in Poland
Authors: Owczarek Artur , Marciniak Dominik M. , Jezior Rafał , Karolewicz Bożena
Published: December 2023

In 2020, pharmacists in Poland received additional authority to prescribe drugs. In this study, we analyzed prescribing after the implementation of this new responsibility. We assessed how the new regulation works in practice and what it means for the healthcare system in the area of access to prescription-only medicines. Data analysis included information on the prescriptions written, the type of substance according to the ATC classification, and data on the prescribing pharmacists. The study used over 2.994 million e-prescriptions written by pharmacists in Poland, which were made available by the e-Health Center. The largest group of drugs prescribed were drugs used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, accounting for 25% of all prescribed medications during the time of the analysis. The next prescription groups were for drugs used in gastrointestinal diseases and metabolic disorders, and those acting on the central nervous system, the respiratory system, and the musculoskeletal system. Among pharmaceutical prescriptions, 73% were pharmaceutical prescriptions issued in pharmacies at full price to the patient. The results indicate that pharmacists are eager to use their permission to prescribe drugs in authority situations. Almost three million records showed improved patient access to medicines in the healthcare system (approximately 5% of repeat prescriptions for all patients during the study period). These data confirm the possibility of cooperation between physicians and pharmacists in strengthening the efficiency of the patient healthcare system. An important conclusion from this work is the need to create the possibility for the pharmacist to access the information resources of the implemented Internet Patient Account system, including therapeutic indications for the drugs used.
Mitochondrial DNA Haplogroups and Variants Predispose to Chagas Disease Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Gallardo Frédéric , Brochet Pauline , Goudenège David , Nunes João Paulo Silva , Andrieux Pauline , Ianni Barbara Maria , Frade Amanda Farage , Mady Charles , Santos Ronaldo Honorato Barros , Kuramoto Andreia , Steffen Samuel , Stolf Antonio Noedir , Pomerantzeff Pablo , Fiorelli Alfredo Inacio , Bocchi Edimar Alcides , Pissetti Cristina Wide , Saba Bruno , Dias Fabrício C. , Sampaio Marcelo Ferraz , Gaiotto Fabio Antônio , Marin-Neto José Antonio , Fragata Abílio , Zaniratto Ricardo Costa Fernandes , Siqueira Sergio , Peixoto Giselle De Lima , Bacal Fernando , Buck Paula , Almeida Rafael Ribeiro , Lin-Wang Hui Tzu , Schmidt André , Hirata Mario Hiroyuki , Donadi Eduardo Antonio , Pereira Alexandre Costa , Rodrigues Junior Virmondes , Martinelli Martino , Naslavsky Michel , Kalil Jorge , Procaccio Vincent , Cunha-Neto Edecio , Chevillard Christophe
Published: December 2023

Cardiomyopathies are major causes of heart failure. Chagas disease (CD) is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, and it is endemic in Central and South America. Thirty percent of cases evolve into chronic chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC), which has worse prognosis as compared with other cardiomyopathies. In vivo bioenergetic analysis and ex vivo proteomic analysis of myocardial tissues highlighted worse mitochondrial dysfunction in CCC, and previous studies identified nuclear-encoded mitochondrial gene variants segregating with CCC. Here, we assessed the role of the mitochondrial genome through mtDNA copy number variations and mtDNA haplotyping and sequencing from heart or blood tissues of severe, moderate CCC and asymptomatic/indeterminate Chagas disease as well as healthy controls as an attempt to help decipher mitochondrial-intrinsic genetic involvement in Chagas disease development. We have found that the mtDNA copy number was significantly lower in CCC than in heart tissue from healthy individuals, while blood mtDNA content was similar among asymptomatic Chagas disease, moderate, and severe CCC patients. An MtDNA haplogrouping study has indicated that African haplogroups were over represented in the Chagas subject groups in comparison with healthy Brazilian individuals. The European lineage is associated with protection against cardiomyopathy and the macro haplogroup H is associated with increased risk towards CCC. Using mitochondria DNA sequencing, 84 mtDNA-encoded protein sequence pathogenic variants were associated with CCC. Among them, two variants were associated to left ventricular non-compaction and two to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The finding that mitochondrial protein-coding SNPs and mitochondrial haplogroups associate with risk of evolving to CCC is consistent with a key role of mitochondrial DNA in the development of chronic chagas disease cardiomyopathy.
Spinoza and Enlightened Pleasures
Authors: Huenemann Charlie
Published: December 2023

Spinoza recognizes that worldly pleasures are not contrary to the life of the philosophical sage, but such pursuits must be carefully directed. He distinguishes between a joy that affects only some parts of the body (titillatio) and joy that extends through the body as a whole (hilaritas or “cheerfulness”). Titillation can be excessive, since it can blind us to our other needs. But cheerfulness cannot be excessive, since the whole body is improved at once. In his account of cheerfulness, Spinoza can be understood to be describing the life of a liefhebber, which is the Dutch term for a connoisseur, or an enlightened and discriminating consumer of worldly pleasures. It is a strikingly appropriate discussion given his own historical context, in which the Dutch culture found itself suddenly in possession of delights from around the world. This paper will explore Spinoza’s account of pleasure and cheerfulness in its context, with reference to other authors who were wrestling with the problem of finding the appropriate place for worldly pleasures in a culture of broadly Calvinist sympathies.
Composts Obtained by Mixing Hop Leaves with Wheat Straw or Farmyard Manure Improved Soil Properties and Increased Microbial Communities
Authors: Afonso Sandra , Pereira Ermelinda L. , Arrobas Margarida , Rodrigues M. Ângelo , Choupina Altino
Published: December 2023

Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) leaves are rich in nutrients, particularly nitrogen (N). After harvest, they can be recycled through composting for use as a soil amendment. In this study, we report the effect of composts obtained from mixtures of hop leaves with other organic materials (wheat straw, farmyard manure, and ash from hop stems) at different ratios on soil properties and microbial diversity. Data on total N, total organic carbon (TOC), microbial N (Mic-N), microbial C (Mic-C), soil basal respiration (SBR), metabolic quotient (qCO2), Mic-C/TOC ratio, acid phosphatase activity (APA), microbial density, and species identification were assessed after each one of the two growing seasons of potted lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). The diversity of microbial species was evaluated using Simpson and Shannon diversity indexes, and the interactions between soil properties and the microbial community were explored. Higher microbial activity was found among the soils amended with leaves plus straw (HS), which exhibited higher levels of TOC, APA, Mic-N, and total N in the first growing cycle and higher levels of Mic-C, Mic-C/TOC, SBR, TOC, and Mic-N in the second growing cycle. Fungi identified belong to the Ascomycota and Zygomycota phyla, while bacteria belong to the Actinobacteria, Bacillota, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria phyla. Differences in the prevalent microbial genera were observed between compost treatments and growing cycles. Correlation analysis revealed significant relationship between soil bacteria and fungi abundance and higher levels of N and C in the soils, indicating the relevance of specific microbial genera, such Acrostalagmus, Doratomyces, Talaromyces, and Aspergillus fungi, as well as Gordonia and Bacillus bacteria. Overall, the results indicate that hop leaves-based compost, particularly with a higher proportion of leaves and straw, influenced the composition of the soil microbial community, ultimately enhancing soil N availability for plant development.
From Lab to Field: Biofertilizers in the 21st Century
Authors: Ibáñez Ana , Garrido-Chamorro Sonia , Vasco-Cárdenas María , Barreiro Carlos
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, legal regulations and social environmental concerns are converging towards the promotion of more sustainable agriculture based on organic compounds and soil preservation. These trends are fuelling the growth of the biofertilizers, which are beneficial preparations containing microorganisms able to enhance a plant’s ability to uptake essential nutrients. Their production and commercialization encompass a multitude of critical steps deeply reviewed in this manuscript through an exhaustive overview of the key stages, such as microorganism selection, new environmental sources, upscaling to field trials, encapsulation, current application systems and regulatory considerations. However, although the economical expectations are promising, several methodological, environmental, and legal concerns are undermining their advancement. The redefinition of international legal frameworks, their enhancement based on trending technologies, and the fostering of multidisciplinary collaboration across sectors are key players to promote biofertilizers as eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives to chemical fertilizers.
Management Approaches to Health and Safety at Work during Prevention Intervention Planning
Authors: Manni Vanessa , De Merich Diego , Campo Giuseppe
Published: December 2023

This work deals with a systematic review of the literature data concerning the theme of integrated approaches to occupational health and safety management, with particular reference to the programming of assistance plans, which guide companies’ organizational choices by also addressing the principles of Total Worker Health. In the current regulatory framework on this issue, the UNI ISO 45001: 2018 standard “Occupational health and safety management systems—Requirements and guidance for use” (published on 12 March 2018)” assumes relevance, defining dynamic approaches to occupational health and safety management systems—paying particular attention to external contextual factors that may influence corporate organizational decisions. The adoption of these systems is not mandatory but allows companies to fulfill their duties in terms of health and safety at work through an organizational approach aimed at the awareness, involvement, and participation of all subjects of the company prevention system, progressing past the phase of mere technological and prescriptive approaches towards a holistic vision of prevention that places the person at the center of preventive actions. In this context, the role of institutional networks and socio-economic partnerships assumes particular importance via the activation of territorial assistance interventions to support companies aimed at improving risk management levels. To this end, the importance of verifying the effectiveness of assistance interventions emerges from the scientific debate using indicators such as quantitative indicators aimed at measuring the performance of all phases of an intervention, with particular attention to their effects in terms of the improved solutions developed.
Health Economic Evaluation of an Online-Based Motivational Program to Reduce Problematic Media Use and Promote Treatment Motivation for Internet Use Disorder—Results of the OMPRIS Study
Authors: Niemann Anja , Hillerich Vivienne , Wasem Jürgen , Dieris-Hirche Jan , Bottel Laura , Pape Magdalena , Herpertz Stephan , Timmesfeld Nina , Basten Jale , te Wildt Bert Theodor , Wölfling Klaus , Beckers Rainer , Henningsen Peter , Neusser Silke , Neumann Anja
Published: December 2023

Internet Use Disorders (IUD) have a relevant effect on national economies. In the randomized, controlled, multicenter, prospective, and single-blinded OMPRIS study (pre-registration number DRKS00019925; Innovation Fund of the Joint Federal Committee of Germany, grant number 01VSF18043), a four-week online program to reduce media addiction symptoms, was evaluated for cost-effectiveness. The intervention group (IG) was compared to a waiting control group (WCG) from German statutory health insurance (SHI) and a societal perspective. Resource use, namely indirect and direct (non) medical costs, was assessed by a standardized questionnaire at baseline and after the intervention. Additionally, intervention costs were calculated. Determining the Reliable Change Index (RCI) based on the primary outcome, assessed by the “Scale for the Assessment of Internet and Computer Game Addiction” (AICA-S), individuals with and without reliable change (RC) were distinguished. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was calculated using the difference-in-difference approach. There were 169 (IG n = 81, WCG n = 88) persons included in the analysis. The mean age was 31.9 (SD 12.1) years. A total of 75.1% were male, and 1.8% diverse. A total of 65% (IG) and 27% (WCG) had an RC. The cost per person with RC was about EUR 860 (SHI) and EUR 1110 (society). The intervention leads to an improvement of media addiction symptoms at moderate additional costs.
A Community-Engaged Approach to Understanding Suicide in a Small Rural County in Georgia: A Two-Phase Content Analysis of Individual and Focus Group Interviews
Authors: Roth Kimberly Beth , Gaveras Eleni , Ghiathi Fatima , Shaw Eric Kendall , Shoemaker Melanie Shanlin , Howard Nicholas Adam , Dhir Meena , Caiza Genesis Rebeca , Szlyk Hannah Selene
Published: December 2023

Suicide is a significant public health problem, with disproportionate rates in rural areas. Rural communities face substantial structural and cultural barriers to suicide prevention. This study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the need for suicide prevention and gauge the appropriateness of prevention efforts in the context of a rural Georgia county by leveraging existing community resources and knowledge. Twenty one-on-one, semi-structured interviews and two focus groups were conducted, with participants recruited via purposive snowball sampling. Data analysis included qualitative deductive and inductive content analysis from individual interviews and focus groups with community stakeholders. The findings highlight how rural contexts exacerbate drivers of death by suicide and how the substantial loss of community members to suicide contributes to the ongoing crisis and reduces available support. Access to mental health care often depended on a connection to an established public system such as schools, a military base, or Veterans Administration. There were perceived gaps in crisis and post-crisis services, with participants actively trying to address these gaps and build community support through coalition building. This study contributes knowledge to contextual drivers of suicide in rural areas beyond individual-level risk factors. Community-engaged suicide prevention research in rural areas is promising, but there is a need to develop interventions to best support coalition building and capacity development.
Influence of Transparency and Disclosures on the Dividend Distribution Decisions in the Firms: Do Profitability and Efficiency of Firms Matter?
Authors: Rastogi Shailesh , Pinto Geetanjali , Pathak Amit Kumar , Singh Satyendra Pratap , Sharma Arpita , Banerjee Souvik , Kanoujiya Jagjeevan , Tejasmayee Pracheta
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine if the impact of transparency and disclosure (TD) levels on shareholders’ current income (dividends) is moderated by technical efficiency (te) and profitability. The study employs econometrics on panel data from 78 BSE-listed enterprises across the 2016–2020 sample period. This conclusion suggests that when TD grows, dividends tend to drop initially, but above a certain threshold level, growing TD levels lead to increased payouts. Furthermore, dividends are adversely associated with the moderating variable “te” in terms of both constant and variable return to scale. On the other hand, moderation by profitability was shown to have a substantially favourable effect on dividends. According to this study, a company’s dividend policy is influenced by its TD levels, which are controlled by its efficiency and profitability. Developing a TD index provides more information on the efficacy of the corporate governance (CG) system. The study’s distinctiveness lies in examining the relationships between transparency, disclosures, and these aspects as they relate to profitability, efficiency, and dividend distribution choices to ascertain whether the companies’ operating effectiveness and financial success matter in this circumstance. The study’s practical and policy implications relate to societal repercussions, which include encouraging more openness and responsibility in business practices, thereby increasing confidence and accountability in decisions about dividend distribution, regardless of efficiency and profitability. The study’s originality is in examining how profitability, efficiency, and dividend distribution decisions relate to transparency and disclosures to determine if companies’ operating efficiency and financial success matter in this situation.
Identification and Interpretation of A-to-I RNA Editing Events in Insect Transcriptomes
Authors: Xu Ye , Liu Jiyao , Zhao Tianyou , Song Fan , Tian Li , Cai Wanzhi , Li Hu , Duan Yuange
Published: December 2023

Adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing is the most prevalent RNA modification in the nervous systems of metazoans. To study the biological significance of RNA editing, we first have to accurately identify these editing events from the transcriptome. The genome-wide identification of RNA editing sites remains a challenging task. In this review, we will first introduce the occurrence, regulation, and importance of A-to-I RNA editing and then describe the established bioinformatic procedures and difficulties in the accurate identification of these sit esespecially in small sized non-model insects. In brief, (1) to obtain an accurate profile of RNA editing sites, a transcriptome coupled with the DNA resequencing of a matched sample is favorable; (2) the single-cell sequencing technique is ready to be applied to RNA editing studies, but there are a few limitations to overcome; (3) during mapping and variant calling steps, various issues, like mapping and base quality, soft-clipping, and the positions of mismatches on reads, should be carefully considered; (4) Sanger sequencing of both RNA and the matched DNA is the best verification of RNA editing sites, but other auxiliary evidence, like the nonsynonymous-to-synonymous ratio or the linkage information, is also helpful for judging the reliability of editing sites. We have systematically reviewed the understanding of the biological significance of RNA editing and summarized the methodology for identifying such editing events. We also raised several promising aspects and challenges in this field. With insightful perspectives on both scientific and technical issues, our review will benefit the researchers in the broader RNA editing community.
Food Safety—Transcriptomics and Proteomics
Authors: Carrera Mónica
Published: December 2023

Food safety is a critical aspect of public health and involves the handling, preparation, and storage of food to avoid contamination and foodborne illnesses [...]
Endoplasmic Reticulum Protein TXNDC5 Interacts with PRDX6 and HSPA9 to Regulate Glutathione Metabolism and Lipid Peroxidation in the Hepatic AML12 Cell Line
Authors: Bidooki Seyed Hesamoddin , Sánchez-Marco Javier , Martínez-Beamonte Roberto , Herrero-Continente Tania , Navarro María A. , Rodríguez-Yoldi María J. , Osada Jesús
Published: December 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or steatosis is an accumulation of fat in the liver. Increased amounts of non-esterified fatty acids, calcium deficiency, or insulin resistance may disturb endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis, which leads to the abnormal accumulation of misfolded proteins, activating the unfolded protein response. The ER is the primary location site for chaperones like thioredoxin domain-containing 5 (TXNDC5). Glutathione participates in cellular oxidative stress, and its interaction with TXNDC5 in the ER may decrease the disulfide bonds of this protein. In addition, glutathione is utilized by glutathione peroxidases to inactivate oxidized lipids. To characterize proteins interacting with TXNDC5, immunoprecipitation and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry were used. Lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, inducible phospholipase A2 (iPLA2) and hepatic transcriptome were assessed in the AML12 and TXNDC5-deficient AML12 cell lines. The results showed that HSPA9 and PRDX6 interact with TXNDC5 in AML12 cells. In addition, TXNDC5 deficiency reduced the protein levels of PRDX6 and HSPA9 in AML12. Moreover, lipid peroxidation, glutathione and iPLA2 activities were significantly decreased in TXNDC5-deficient cells, and to find the cause of the PRDX6 protein reduction, proteasome suppression revealed no considerable effect on it. Finally, hepatic transcripts connected to PRDX6 and HSPA9 indicated an increase in the Dnaja3, Mfn2 and Prdx5 and a decrease in Npm1, Oplah, Gstp3, Gstm6, Gstt1, Serpina1a, Serpina1b, Serpina3m, Hsp90aa1 and Rps14 mRNA levels in AML12 KO cells. In conclusion, the lipid peroxidation system and glutathione mechanism in AML12 cells may be disrupted by the absence of TXNDC5, a novel protein–protein interacting partner of PRDX6 and HSPA9.
Evaluation of Chelator-to-Antibody Ratio on Development of 89Zr-iPET Tracer for Imaging of PD-L1 Expression on Tumor
Authors: Tsai Shih-Chuan , Farn Shiou-Shiow , Lo Wei-Lin , Ou Yang Fang-Yu , Kang Yong-Ching , Chen Liang-Cheng , Chen Kuo-Ting , Liao Jiunn-Wang , Kung Jui-Yin , Chen Jenn-Tzong , Huang Feng-Yun J.
Published: December 2023

89Zr-iPET has been widely used for preclinical and clinical immunotherapy studies to predict patient stratification or evaluate therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we prepared and evaluated 89Zr-DFO-anti-PD-L1-mAb tracers with varying chelator-to-antibody ratios (CARs), including 89Zr-DFO-anti-PD-L1-mAb_3X (tracer_3X), 89Zr-DFO-anti-PD-L1-mAb_10X (tracer_10X), and 89Zr-DFO-anti-PD-L1-mAb_20X (tracer_20X). The DFO-anti-PD-L1-mAb conjugates with varying CARs were prepared using a random conjugation method and then subjected to quality control. The conjugates were radiolabeled with 89Zr and evaluated in a PD-L1-expressing CT26 tumor-bearing mouse model. Next, iPET imaging, biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and ex vivo pathological and immunohistochemical examinations were conducted. LC–MS analysis revealed that DFO-anti-PD-L1-mAb conjugates were prepared with CARs ranging from 0.4 to 2.0. Radiochemical purity for all tracer groups was >99% after purification. The specific activity levels of tracer_3X, tracer_10X, and tracer_20X were 2.2 ± 0.6, 8.2 ± 0.6, and 10.5 ± 1.6 μCi/μg, respectively. 89Zr-iPET imaging showed evident tumor uptake in all tracer groups and reached the maximum uptake value at 24 h postinjection (p.i.). Biodistribution data at 168 h p.i. revealed that the tumor-to-liver, tumor-to-muscle, and tumor-to-blood uptake ratios for tracer_3X, tracer_10X, and tracer_20X were 0.46 ± 0.14, 0.58 ± 0.33, and 1.54 ± 0.51; 4.7 ± 1.3, 7.1 ± 3.9, and 14.7 ± 1.1; and 13.1 ± 5.8, 19.4 ± 13.8, and 41.3 ± 10.6, respectively. Significant differences were observed between tracer_3X and tracer_20X in the aforementioned uptake ratios at 168 h p.i. The mean residence time and elimination half-life for tracer_3X, tracer_10X, and tracer_20X were 25.4 ± 4.9, 24.2 ± 6.1, and 25.8 ± 3.3 h and 11.8 ± 0.5, 11.1 ± 0.7, and 11.7 ± 0.6 h, respectively. No statistical differences were found between-tracer in the aforementioned pharmacokinetic parameters. In conclusion, 89Zr-DFO-anti-PD-L1-mAb tracers with a CAR of 1.4–2.0 may be better at imaging PD-L1 expression in tumors than are traditional low-CAR 89Zr-iPET tracers.
Single-Molecule X-ray Scattering Used to Visualize the Conformation Distribution of Biological Molecules via Single-Object Scattering Sampling
Authors: Lee Seonggon , Ki Hosung , Lee Sang Jin , Ihee Hyotcherl
Published: December 2023

Biological macromolecules, the fundamental building blocks of life, exhibit dynamic structures in their natural environment. Traditional structure determination techniques often oversimplify these multifarious conformational spectra by capturing only ensemble- and time-averaged molecular structures. Addressing this gap, in this work, we extend the application of the single-object scattering sampling (SOSS) method to diverse biological molecules, including RNAs and proteins. Our approach, referred to as “Bio-SOSS”, leverages ultrashort X-ray pulses to capture instantaneous structures. In Bio-SOSS, we employ two gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as labels, which provide strong contrast in the X-ray scattering signal, to ensure precise distance determinations between labeled sites. We generated hypothetical Bio-SOSS images for RNAs, proteins, and an RNA–protein complex, each labeled with two AuNPs at specified positions. Subsequently, to validate the accuracy of Bio-SOSS, we extracted distances between these nanoparticle labels from the images and compared them with the actual values used to generate the Bio-SOSS images. Specifically, for a representative RNA (1KXK), the standard deviation in distance discrepancies between molecular dynamics snapshots and Bio-SOSS retrievals was found to be optimally around 0.2 Å, typically within 1 Å under practical experimental conditions at state-of-the-art X-ray free-electron laser facilities. Furthermore, we conducted an in-depth analysis of how various experimental factors, such as AuNP size, X-ray properties, and detector geometry, influence the accuracy of Bio-SOSS. This comprehensive investigation highlights the practicality and potential of Bio-SOSS in accurately capturing the diverse conformation spectrum of biological macromolecules, paving the way for deeper insights into their dynamic natures.
Polyphenolic Compounds Nanostructurated with Gold Nanoparticles Enhance Wound Repair
Authors: Martínez-Cuazitl Adriana , Gómez-García María del Consuelo , Pérez-Mora Salvador , Rojas-López Marlon , Delgado-Macuil Raúl Jacobo , Ocampo-López Juan , Vázquez-Zapién Gustavo Jesús , Mata-Miranda Mónica Maribel , Pérez-Ishiwara David Guillermo
Published: December 2023

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been used in a wide range of applications, conferring to bio-molecules diverse properties such as delivery, stabilization, and reduction of the adverse effects of drugs or plant extracts. Polyphenolic compounds from Bacopa procumbens (B. procumbens) (BP) can modulate proliferation, adhesion, migration, and cell differentiation, reducing the artificial scratch area in fibroblast cultures and promoting wound healing in an in vivo model. Here, chemically synthesized AuNPs conjugated with BP (AuNP-BP) were characterized using UV-Vis, ATR-FTIR, DLS, zeta-potential, and TEM analysis. The results showed an overlap of the FTIR spectra of the polyphenolic compounds from B. procumbens adhered to the surface of the AuNPs. UV-vis analysis indicated that the average size of the AuNP-BP was 28 nm, while DLS analysis showed a size of 44.58 nm and, by TEM, a size of 16.5 nm with an icosahedral morphology was observed. These measurements suggest an increase in the size of the nanoparticles after conjugation with BP, compared to the sizes of 9 nm, 44.51 nm, and 14.17 nm for the unconjugated AuNPs, respectively. Furthermore, the zeta potential of the AuNPs, which was originally −36.3 ± 12.3 mV shifted to −18.2 ± 7.02 mV after conjugation with BP, indicating improved stability of the nanoparticles. Enhancement of the wound healing effect was evaluated by morphometric, histochemical, and FTIR changes in a rat wound excision model. Results showed that the nanoconjugation process reduced the BP concentrations by 100-fold to have the same wound healing effect as BP alone. Besides, histological and FTIR spectroscopy analyses demonstrated that AuNP-BP treatment exhibited better macroscopical performance, showing a reduction in inflammatory cells and an increased synthesis and improved organization of collagen fibers.
Myocardial Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Protein Expression in Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Siratavičiūtė Vitalija , Pangonytė Dalia , Utkienė Lina , Jusienė Lina , Marcinkevičienė Jolanta , Stanionienė Zita , Radikė Reda
Published: December 2023

The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas receptor axis plays a significant role in regulating myocardial remodeling and the development of heart failure (HF), with ACE2 being the primary focus. However, contemporary understanding of the membrane-bound form of the human ACE2 protein remains insufficient. The purpose of this study was to determine the expression of ACE2 protein in different cells of the left ventricular myocardium in non-diseased hearts and at various stages of ischemic HF. A total of 103 myocardial tissue samples from the left ventricle underwent quantitative and semi-quantitative immunohistochemical analysis. Upon assessing ACE2 immunostaining in all myocardial cells through unselective digital image analysis, there was no change in the stage A HF group. Nevertheless, the expression of ACE2 membrane protein in cardiomyocytes showed a tendency to increase, while non-cardiomyocyte ACE2 expression decreased significantly (p < 0.001). In the stage B HF group, the intensity of ACE2 immunostaining continued to increase with rising cardiomyocyte ACE2 expression (p < 0.001). Non-cardiomyocyte expression, in contrast, remained similar to that observed in the stage A HF group. In the stages C/D HF group, ACE2 expression reached its highest level in cardiomyocytes (p < 0.001), while ACE2 expression in non-cardiomyocytes was the lowest (p < 0.001). These changes in ACE2 protein levels are associated with left ventricular remodeling in ischemic HF.
Evaluation of the Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Four Native Pig Populations in Gansu Province
Authors: Yan Zunqiang , Song Kelin , Wang Pengfei , Gun Shuangbao , Long Xi
Published: December 2023

Indigenous pig populations, including Bamei pigs (BM), Hezuo pigs (HZ), Huixian Qingni Black pigs (HX), and Minxian Black pigs (MX) in Gansu Province, live in a particular climate and a relatively closed geographical environment. These local pig breeds are characterized by excellent characteristics (e.g., cold tolerance, robust disease resistance, and superior meat quality). In the past few years, pig populations in Gansu Province have decreased significantly because of their poor lean meat percentage, high fat content, and slow growth rate. Maintaining the diversity of these four breeds can act as a source of new alleles to be incorporated into commercial breeds which are more susceptible to disease and less adaptable to changing conditions because of inbreeding. Genomic data analysis is adequate for determining the genetic diversity and livestock breeding population structure, even in local pig populations. However, the genetic diversity and population structure of the four native pig populations in Gansu Province are still unknown. Thus, we used “Zhongxin-I” porcine chip for the SNP detection of 102 individuals living on four pig conservation farms. A total of 57,466 SNPs were identified among the four pig breeds. The linkage disequilibrium (LD) plot showed that MX had the highest level of LD, followed by BM, HZ, and HX. The observed heterozygosity (Ho) in all four populations was higher than the expected heterozygosity (He). A principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated that the four local pig populations were isolated. The identity displayed by the state matrix and G matrix heat map results indicated that small numbers of individuals among the four pig breeds had a high genetic distance and weak genetic relationships. The results of the population genetic structure of BM, HZ, HX, and MX pigs showed a slight genetic diversity loss. Our findings enabled us to better understand the genome characteristics of these four indigenous pig populations, which will provide novel insights for the future germplasm conservation and utilization of these indigenous pig populations.
The Structure and Nucleotide-Binding Characteristics of Regulated Cystathionine β-Synthase Domain-Containing Pyrophosphatase without One Catalytic Domain
Authors: Zamakhov Ilya M. , Anashkin Viktor A. , Moiseenko Andrey V. , Orlov Victor N. , Vorobyeva Natalia N. , Sokolova Olga S. , Baykov Alexander A.
Published: December 2023

Regulatory adenine nucleotide-binding cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) domains are widespread in proteins; however, information on the mechanism of their modulating effects on protein function is scarce. The difficulty in obtaining structural data for such proteins is ascribed to their unusual flexibility and propensity to form higher-order oligomeric structures. In this study, we deleted the most movable domain from the catalytic part of a CBS domain-containing bacterial inorganic pyrophosphatase (CBS-PPase) and characterized the deletion variant both structurally and functionally. The truncated CBS-PPase was inactive but retained the homotetrameric structure of the full-size enzyme and its ability to bind a fluorescent AMP analog (inhibitor) and diadenosine tetraphosphate (activator) with the same or greater affinity. The deletion stabilized the protein structure against thermal unfolding, suggesting that the deleted domain destabilizes the structure in the full-size protein. A “linear” 3D structure with an unusual type of domain swapping predicted for the truncated CBS-PPase by Alphafold2 was confirmed by single-particle electron microscopy. The results suggest a dual role for the CBS domains in CBS-PPase regulation: they allow for enzyme tetramerization, which impedes the motion of one catalytic domain, and bind adenine nucleotides to mitigate or aggravate this effect.
Bioacoustic IoT Sensors as Next-Generation Tools for Monitoring: Counting Flying Insects through Buzz
Authors: Alberti Simona , Stasolla Gianluca , Mazzola Simone , Casacci Luca Pietro , Barbero Francesca
Published: December 2023

The global loss of biodiversity is an urgent concern requiring the implementation of effective monitoring. Flying insects, such as pollinators, are vital for ecosystems, and establishing their population dynamics has become essential in conservation biology. Traditional monitoring methods are labour-intensive and show time constraints. In this work, we explore the use of bioacoustic sensors for monitoring flying insects. Data collected at four Italian farms using traditional monitoring methods, such as hand netting and pan traps, and bioacoustic sensors were compared. The results showed a positive correlation between the average number of buzzes per hour and insect abundance measured by traditional methods, primarily by pan traps. Intraday and long-term analysis performed on buzzes revealed temperature-related patterns of insect activity. Passive acoustic monitoring proved to be effective in estimating flying insect abundance, while further development of the algorithm is required to correctly identify insect taxa. Overall, innovative technologies, such as bioacoustic sensors, do not replace the expertise and data quality provided by professionals, but they offer unprecedented opportunities to ease insect monitoring to support conservation biodiversity efforts.