bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of sexual relationship power with PrEP persistence and other sexual health outcomes among adolescent and young women in Kenya and South Africa
Authors: Rousseau Elzette , Wu Linxuan , Heffron Renee , Baeten Jared M. , Celum Connie L. , Travill Danielle , Delany-Moretlwe Sinead , Bekker Linda-Gail , Bukusi Elizabeth , Omollo Victor , van der Straten Ariane , O’Malley Gabrielle , Haberer Jessica E. , Morton Jennifer F. , Johnson Rachel E. , Roberts Sarah T.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Gendered power inequalities impact adolescent girls’ and young women's (AGYW) sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes. We investigated the influence of sexual relationship power on AGYW's SRH outcomes, including HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) persistence.

Methods

The POWER study in Kisumu, Kenya, and Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa provided PrEP to 2,550 AGYW (aged 16–25). AGYW's perceived power in their primary sexual relationship was measured among the first 596 participants enrolled using the Sexual Relationship Power Scale's (SRPS) relationship control sub-scale. Multivariable regression was used to test for (1) key sociodemographic and relationship characteristics associated with relationship power; and (2) the association of relationship power with SRH outcomes including PrEP persistence.

Results

In this cohort, the mean SRPS score was 2.56 (0.49), 542 (90.9%) initiated PrEP; 192 (35.4%) persisted with PrEP at 1 month of which 46 (24.0% of 192) persisted at 6 months. SRPS were significantly lower among AGYW who cohabited with their sex partner (−0.14, 95% CI: −0.24 to −0.04, p = 0.01), or had ≥1 sex partner (−0.10, 95% CI: −0.19 to −0.00, p = 0.05). AGYW with lower SRPS were more likely to not know their partner's HIV status (aOR 2.05, 95% CI: 1.27 to 3.33, p < 0.01), but SRPS was not associated with PrEP persistence, STI infection, condom, or hormonal contraception use.

Discussion

AGYW's reasons for initiating PrEP and reasons for continuously using PrEP may be different. While low relationship power was associated with perceived HIV vulnerability, AGYW's PrEP persistence may be influenced by more than relationship power.
RNA Splicing—Cutting and Pasting Genes
Authors: Sharp Phillip A.
Published: May 2023

Science in general, and specifically the science of life, offers an intriguing path to walk along. As you deepen your understanding of a particular topic, you become aware of things you did not see at all when you started. Sometimes, this new seeing even drives you to reconsider and redefine very basic concepts that you learned along the way. This is exactly what happened after we discovered a process called RNA splicing. In RNA splicing, pieces of genetic instructions are cut and pasted together to form the final instructions for producing proteins. The discovery of RNA splicing has driven us to rethink what we previously believed about genes, which are the most fundamental units of information in biology. In this article, I will tell you what we discovered about RNA splicing, how it influenced our ideas about genes, and how we now use this knowledge to significantly improve people’s lives.
Turning RNA Into DNA: The Discovery That Revolutionized Biology and Biotechnology
Authors: Baltimore David
Published: May 2023

Viruses are unique biological systems. They are parasites that use the cells of other organisms, called hosts, to multiply, often causing disease to the host. One of the most interesting features of viruses is that some of them contain RNA as their genetic material—all other known organisms use DNA. In the beginning of my career I worked on RNA viruses, trying to understand their basic behaviors and processes. When I focused on RNA viruses that are known to cause cancer, I discovered that they can make DNA from their RNA genomes, in a process called reverse transcription. That was a great discovery that changed the prevailing way of thinking and had profound implications in the fields of biology, medicine, and biotechnology. In this article, I will tell you about viruses, walk you through the discovery of reverse transcription, and describe some major implications of our findings in terms of improving or even saving many human lives.
Scaling laws for ablation waves formed by ice sublimation and rock dissolution: applications to the Earth, Mars and Pluto
Authors: Carpy Sabrina , Bordiec Maï , Bourgeois Olivier
Published: May 2023

Ablation waves involve solid substrate such as ice or soluble rocks. Ablation by sublimation or dissolution under turbulent winds or liquid flows may lead to the development of transverse linear bedforms (ablation waves) on volatile or soluble susbtrates. In glaciology, geomorphology, karstology and planetology, these ablation waves may provide relevant morphological markers to constrain the flows that control their formation. For that purpose, we describe a unified model, that couples mass transfers and turbulent flow dynamics and takes into account the relationship between the viscosity of the fluid and the diffusivity of the ablated material, for both sublimation and dissolution waves. From the stability analysis of the model, we derive three scaling laws that relate the wavelength, the migration velocity and the growth time of the waves to the physical characteristics (pressure, temperature, friction velocity, viscous length, ablation rate) of their environment through coefficients obtained numerically. The laws are validated on terrestrial examples and laboratory experiments of sublimation and dissolution waves. Then, these laws are plotted in specific charts for dissolution waves in liquid water, for sublimation waves in N2-rich atmospheres (e.g., Earth, Titan, Pluto) and in CO2-rich atmospheres (e.g., Mars, Venus). They are applied to rock dissolution on the walls of a limestone cave (Saint-Marcel d’Ardèche, France), to H2O ice sublimation on the North Polar Cap (Mars) and to CH4 ice sublimation in Sputnik Planitia (Pluto), to demonstrate how they can be used (1) either to derive physical conditions on planetary surfaces from observed geometric characteristics of ablation waves (2) or, conversely, to predict geometric characteristics of ablation waves from measured or inferred physical conditions on planetary surfaces. The migration of sublimation waves on regions of the Martian North Polar Cap and sublimation waves candidates on Pluto are discussed.
The impact of unplanned 30-day readmission as a quality indicator in pediatric surgery
Authors: Ellul Sarah , Shoukry Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Hospital readmission is one of the indicators used to assess quality of service provided in healthcare. Based on accumulated knowledge, risk management teams assess data related to readmissions to find curative solutions for underlying factors. The current article's aim is investigating readmission routes within the workplace in paediatric surgery service during the first 30 days post discharge from Mater Dei Hospital (MDH).

Materials and method

A retrospective study of children's hospital readmissions between October 2017 and November 2019 was performed, strictly before COVID-19 pandemic. Demographics and clinical records including age, gender, pre-existing comorbidities, diagnosis during primary admission and readmission, procedure carried out, ASA grade, length of stay, and outcomes were collected. All children re-admitted under a single paediatric surgical department within 30 days from initial admission to tertiary referral hospital were included. Patients undergoing emergency visitation without subsequent admissions were excluded. Readmissions were classified into cohorts: elective and emergency, depending on the nature of primary admission. Contributing factors and outcomes were compared.

Results

935 surgical admissions (221 elective and 714 emergencies) were registered at MDH over the given period, with an average hospital stay of 3.62 days. Total readmission rate was 1.7% (n = 16). 25% (n = 4) of readmissions were post elective, 75% (n = 12) post emergency admission, with an average stay of 4.37 days and no mortalities. 43.7% (n = 7) were re-admissions post-surgical intervention. Further surgical interventions were necessary in 25% (n = 4) of readmitted patients, the remainder (n = 12) treated conservatively.

Conclusion

Published reports concerning paediatric surgical readmission rates are limited, challenging healthcare systems. Most readmissions area voidable; therefore, healthcare workers must provide adequate strategies tailored to their resources, efficient multidisciplinary approaches with improved communication to decrease morbidity and prevent readmissions.
South American H4N2 influenza A virus improved replication in chicken trachea after low number of passages
Authors: Ferreri Lucas M. , Carnaccini Silvia , Olivera Valeria , Pereda Ariel , Rajao Daniela , Perez Daniel R.
Published: May 2023

Introduction of influenza A viruses (FLUAV) into poultry from waterfowl is frequent, producing economic burden and increasing the probability of human infections. We have previously described the presence of FLUAV in wild birds in Argentina with unique evolutionary trajectories belonging to a South American lineage different from the North American and Eurasian lineages. Adaptability of this South American lineage FLUAV to poultry species is still poorly understood. In the present report, we evaluated the capacity of an H4N2 FLUAV from the South American lineage to adapt to chickens after low number of passages. We found that five mutations were acquired after five passages in 3-days-old chickens. These mutations produced a virus with better infectivity in ex vivo trachea explants but overall lower infection in lung explants. Infection of 3-week-old chickens persisted for a longer period and was detected in more tissues than the parental virus, suggesting adaptation of the H4N2 influenza A virus to chicken.
A Shadowed Type-2 Fuzzy Approach for Crossover Parameter Adaptation in Differential Evolution
Authors: Ochoa Patricia , Peraza Cinthia , Castillo Oscar , Geem Zong Woo
Published: May 2023

The shadowed type-2 fuzzy systems are used more frequently today as they provide an alternative to classical fuzzy logic. The primary purpose of fuzzy logic is to simulate reasoning in a computer. This work aims to use shadowed type-2 fuzzy systems (ST2-FS) to dynamically adapt the crossing parameter of differential evolution (DE). To test the performance of the dynamic crossing parameter, the motor position control problem was used, which contains an interval type-2 fuzzy system (IT2-FS) for controlling the motor. A comparison is made between the original DE and the algorithm using shadowed type-2 fuzzy systems (DE-ST2-FS), as well as a comparison with the results of other state-of-the-art metaheuristics.
Colorectal Cancer in the Young: Research in Early Age Colorectal Cancer Trends (REACCT) Collaborative
Authors: Zaborowski Alexandra M.
Published: May 2023

Background: The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in the young (under 50). Defining the clinicopathological features and cancer-specific outcomes of patients with early-onset CRC is important to optimize screening and treatment strategies. This study evaluated disease-specific features and oncological outcomes of patients with early-onset CRC. Methods: Anonymized data from an international collaboration were analyzed. The inclusion criteria for this study were patients aged <50 years with stage I-III disease surgically resected with curative intent. Overall and disease-free survival were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Results: A total of 3378 patients were included, with a median age of 43 (18–49) and a slight male preponderance (54.3%). One-third had a family history of colorectal cancer. Almost all (>95%) of patients were symptomatic at diagnosis. The majority (70.1%) of tumors were distal to the descending colon. Approximately 40% were node positive. Microsatellite instability was demonstrated in one in five patients, representing 10% of rectal and 27% of colon cancers. A defined inherited syndrome was diagnosed in one-third of those with microsatellite instability. Rectal cancer displayed a worse prognosis stage for stage. Five-year disease-free survival for stage I, II, and III colon cancer was 96%, 91%, and 68%, respectively. The equivalent rates for rectal cancer were 91%, 81%, and 62%. Conclusions and relevance: The majority of EOCRC would be captured with flexible sigmoidoscopy. Extending screening to young adults and public health education initiatives are potential interventions to improve survivorship.
Analysis of the Maximum Efficiency and the Maximum Net Power as Objective Functions for Organic Rankine Cycles Optimization
Authors: González Johan , Garrido José Matías , Quinteros-Lama Héctor
Published: May 2023

Maximum efficiency and maximum net power output are some of the most important goals to reach the optimal conditions of organic Rankine cycles. This work compares two objective functions, the maximum efficiency function, β, and the maximum net power output function, ω. The van der Waals and PC-SAFT equations of state are used to calculate the qualitative and quantitative behavior, respectively. The analysis is performed for a set of eight working fluids, considering hydrocarbons and fourth-generation refrigerants. The results show that the two objective functions and the maximum entropy point are excellent references for describing the optimal organic Rankine cycle conditions. These references enable attaining a zone where the optimal operating conditions of an organic Rankine cycle can be found for any working fluid. This zone corresponds to a temperature range determined by the boiler outlet temperature obtained by the maximum efficiency function, maximum net power output function, and maximum entropy point. This zone is named the optimal temperature range of the boiler in this work.
Simulation and Analysis of Proppant Transport Patterns in Wellbore-Fracture Systems
Authors: Zhang Jingchen , Li Yan , Yang Huilu , Guo Xiaodong
Published: May 2023

Staged multi-cluster fracturing of horizontal wells is one of the most important tools to achieve efficient development of unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. The multi-stage fracturing technique forms complex fractures with multiple clusters and branches in the formation, causing competing diversions leading to more complex proppant transport patterns, and the proppant placement method determines the flow conductivity of complex fractures, so it is necessary to investigate the proppant transport patterns in complex fractures. To address this issue, a field-scale geometric model is established for numerical simulation, and the multiphase flow diversion pattern in the wellbore, the proppant distribution pattern under different network conditions, and the optimization of different construction parameters are investigated. The results are obtained as follows: the distribution of solid and liquid phases in each cluster of the well conforms to the trend of variable mass flow; the proppant is distributed at the heel end in multiple clusters of fractures, and the sand and liquid are unevenly distributed among clusters of fractures, and the number of branching affects the proppant transport; through sensitivity analysis of the influencing factors, the pumping displacement, fracturing fluid viscosity and proppant particle size are optimized, and the construction parameters of 14 m3/min, 5 mPa·s, 70/140 mesh, 12% sand ratio are determined. This study has a certain guiding significance for the optimization of fracturing parameters in this block.
Method of Identification and Assessment of Security Needs of a Region against the Threat of a Large Power Outage
Authors: Fröhlich Tomáš , Hon Zdeněk , Staněk Martin , Slabý Jiří
Published: May 2023

The reliable supply of electricity is a key commodity that affects the functioning of today’s society. The long-term disruption of these supplies has far-reaching effects that will have a significant impact on all spheres of our lives. Infrastructure will stop operating and the provided services will be limited or cease. This article focuses on a comprehensive and systematic approach to strengthening the resilience of territorial units in relation to large-scale electricity supply disruption. The main part focuses on the process model of identification and evaluation of key elements of a region that are necessary to ensure the basic needs of its population. The aim of this model is to provide the security management with an effective tool on how to define the security needs in their region and determine specific infrastructure from the security perspective. The model includes a process of determining the priorities of infrastructure in accordance with their importance in the form of a methodological framework. The result is the establishment of a list of safety-relevant objects in the region, which is a necessary prerequisite for the design of an islanded operation and other measures leading to the reduction of impacts caused by large-scale power outages.
Experimental Study on the Preparation of Hydrogen-Rich Gas by Gasifying of Traditional Chinese Medicine Residue in a DFB Based on Calcium Looping
Authors: Zhou Xiaoquan , Yang Liguo , Fan Xiaoxu , Li Xuanyou
Published: May 2023

Using traditional Chinese medicine residue biomass as the raw material and industrial limestone as a carbon absorbent, this paper investigates the production of hydrogen-rich synthesis gas in a pilot-scale calcium looping dual fluidized bed (DFB) system. The study focuses on analyzing the distribution characteristics of temperature and pressure, as well as the operation and control methods of the DFB system. The effects of reaction temperature, material layer height (residence time), water vapor/biomass ratio (S/B), and calcium/carbon molar ratio (Ca/C) on gasification products are examined. The experimental results demonstrate that as the temperature (600–700 °C), S/B ratio (0.5–1.5), Ca/C ratio (0–0.6), and other parameters increase, the gas composition shows a gradual increase in the volume content of H2, a gradual decrease in the volume content of CO, and an initial increase and subsequent decrease in the volume content of CH4. Within the range of operating conditions in this study, the optimal conditions for producing hydrogen-rich gas are 700 °C, an S/B ratio of 1.5, and a Ca/C ratio of 0.6. Furthermore, increasing the height of the material layer in the gasification furnace (residence time) enhances the absorption of CO2 by the calcium absorbents, thus promoting an increase in the volume content of H2 and the carbon conversion rate in the gas.
Modern Thermal Energy Storage Systems Dedicated to Autonomous Buildings
Authors: Musiał Michał , Lichołai Lech , Katunský Dušan
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a detailed analysis of the research into modern thermal energy storage systems dedicated to autonomous buildings. The paper systematises the current state of knowledge concerning thermal energy storage systems and their use of either phase change materials or sorption systems; it notes their benefits, drawbacks, application options, and potential directions for future development. The rapid proliferation of studies on installation systems, new composites, and phase change materials requires a systematisation of the subject related to short- and long-term thermal energy storage in building structures. This paper focuses on assessing the validity of the current improved thermal energy storage solutions for buildings with very high energy efficiency standards and buildings that are energy-independent. The paper presents the current results of the energy and economic analyses of the use of heat storage systems in buildings. This paper shows the optimal heat storage systems for autonomous buildings. Moreover, it also shows other potential ways to develop systems and composites capable of storing heat in autonomous buildings.
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms in Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Brain Tumors
Authors: Costa Mario , Vannini Eleonora
Published: May 2023

The normal growth and operation of the central nervous system (CNS) at all stages of development, including adulthood, depend on the interaction between intrinsic and extrinsic factors [...]
Relevance of Biomarkers in Serum vs. Synovial Fluid in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Kalogera Stefania , Jansen Mylène P. , Bay-Jensen Anne-Christine , Frederiksen Peder , Karsdal Morten A. , Thudium Christian S. , Mastbergen Simon C.
Published: May 2023

The association between structural changes and pain sensation in osteoarthritis (OA) remains unclear. Joint deterioration in OA leads to the release of protein fragments that can either systemically (serum) or locally (synovial fluid; SF) be targeted as biomarkers and describe structural changes and potentially pain. Biomarkers of collagen type I (C1M), type II (C2M), type III (C3M), type X (C10C), and aggrecan (ARGS) degradation were measured in the serum and SF of knee OA patients. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to assess the correlation of the biomarkers’ levels between serum and SF. Linear regression adjusted for confounders was used to evaluate the associations between the biomarkers’ levels and clinical outcomes. The serum C1M levels were negatively associated with subchondral bone density. The serum C2M levels were negatively associated with KL grade and positively associated with minimum joint space width (minJSW). The C10C levels in SF were negatively associated with minJSW and positively associated with KL grade and osteophyte area. Lastly, the serum C2M and C3M levels were negatively associated with pain outcomes. Most of the biomarkers seemed to mainly be associated with structural outcomes. The overall biomarkers of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in serum and SF may provide different information and reflect different pathogenic processes.
Δ8-THC Induces Up-Regulation of Glutamatergic Pathway Genes in Differentiated SH-SY5Y: A Transcriptomic Study
Authors: Anchesi Ivan , Schepici Giovanni , Chiricosta Luigi , Gugliandolo Agnese , Salamone Stefano , Caprioglio Diego , Pollastro Federica , Mazzon Emanuela
Published: May 2023

Cannabinoids, natural or synthetic, have antidepressant, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and anti-psychotic properties. Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) are the most studied cannabinoids, but recently, attention has turned towards minor cannabinoids. Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC), an isomer of Δ9-THC, is a compound for which, to date, there is no evidence of its role in the modulation of synaptic pathways. The aim of our work was to evaluate the effects of Δ8-THC on differentiated SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. Using next generation sequencing (NGS), we investigated whether Δ8-THC could modify the transcriptomic profile of genes involved in synapse functions. Our results showed that Δ8-THC upregulates the expression of genes involved in the glutamatergic pathway and inhibits gene expression at cholinergic synapses. Conversely, Δ8-THC did not modify the transcriptomic profile of genes involved in the GABAergic and dopaminergic pathways.
Alcohol as a Modifiable Risk Factor for Alzheimer’s Disease—Evidence from Experimental Studies
Authors: Chandrashekar Devaraj V. , Steinberg Ross A. , Han Derick , Sumbria Rachita K.
Published: May 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive impairment and memory loss. Epidemiological evidence suggests that heavy alcohol consumption aggravates AD pathology, whereas low alcohol intake may be protective. However, these observations have been inconsistent, and because of methodological discrepancies, the findings remain controversial. Alcohol-feeding studies in AD mice support the notion that high alcohol intake promotes AD, while also hinting that low alcohol doses may be protective against AD. Chronic alcohol feeding to AD mice that delivers alcohol doses sufficient to cause liver injury largely promotes and accelerates AD pathology. The mechanisms by which alcohol can modulate cerebral AD pathology include Toll-like receptors, protein kinase-B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element-binding protein phosphorylation pathway, glycogen synthase kinase 3-β, cyclin-dependent kinase-5, insulin-like growth factor type-1 receptor, modulation of β-amyloid (Aβ) synthesis and clearance, microglial mediated, and brain endothelial alterations. Besides these brain-centric pathways, alcohol-mediated liver injury may significantly affect brain Aβ levels through alterations in the peripheral-to-central Aβ homeostasis. This article reviews published experimental studies (cell culture and AD rodent models) to summarize the scientific evidence and probable mechanisms (both cerebral and hepatic) by which alcohol promotes or protects against AD progression.
Distribution of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in the Brain of the Small-Spotted Catshark Scyliorhinus canicula, and Evolution of Neurotrophins in Basal Vertebrates
Authors: Chiavacci Elena , Bagnoli Sara , Cellerino Alessandro , Terzibasi Tozzini Eva
Published: May 2023

Neurotrophins (NTFs) are structurally related neurotrophic factors essential for differentiation, survival, neurite outgrowth, and the plasticity of neurons. Abnormalities associated with neurotrophin-signaling (NTF-signaling) were associated with neuropathies, neurodegenerative disorders, and age-associated cognitive decline. Among the neurotrophins, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has the highest expression and is expressed in mammals by specific cells throughout the brain, with particularly high expression in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Whole genome sequencing efforts showed that NTF signaling evolved before the evolution of Vertebrates; thus, the shared ancestor of Protostomes, Cyclostomes, and Deuterostomes must have possessed a single ortholog of neurotrophins. After the first round of whole genome duplication that occurred in the last common ancestor of Vertebrates, the presence of two neurotrophins in Agnatha was hypothesized, while the monophyletic group of cartilaginous fishes, or Chondrichthyans, was situated immediately after the second whole genome duplication round that occurred in the last common ancestor of Gnathostomes. Chondrichthyans represent the outgroup of all other living jawed vertebrates (Gnathostomes) and the sister group of Osteichthyans (comprehensive of Actinopterygians and Sarcopterygians). We were able to first identify the second neurotrophin in Agnatha. Secondly, we expanded our analysis to include the Chondrichthyans, with their strategic phylogenetic position as the most basal extant Gnathostome taxon. Results from the phylogenetic analysis confirmed the presence of four neurotrophins in the Chondrichthyans, namely the orthologs of the four mammalian neurotrophins BDNF, NGF, NT-3, and NT-4. We then proceeded to study the expression of BDNF in the adult brain of the Chondrichthyan Scyliorhinus canicula. Our results showed that BDNF is highly expressed in the S. canicula brain and that its expression is highest in the Telencephalon, while the Mesencephalic and Diencephalic areas showed expression of BDNF in isolated and well-defined cell groups. NGF was expressed at much lower levels that could be detected by PCR but not by in situ hybridization. Our results warrant further investigations in Chondrichthyans to characterize the putative ancestral function of neurotrophins in Vertebrates.
Biotransformation of Flavonoids with -NO2, -CH3 Groups and -Br, -Cl Atoms by Entomopathogenic Filamentous Fungi
Authors: Perz Martyna , Krawczyk-Łebek Agnieszka , Dymarska Monika , Janeczko Tomasz , Kostrzewa-Susłow Edyta
Published: May 2023

Combining chemical and microbiological methods using entomopathogenic filamentous fungi makes obtaining flavonoid glycosides possible. In the presented study, biotransformations were carried out in cultures of Beauveria bassiana KCH J1.5, Isaria fumosorosea KCH J2, and Isaria farinosa KCH J2.6 strains on six flavonoid compounds obtained in chemical synthesis. As a result of the biotransformation of 6-methyl-8-nitroflavanone using the strain I. fumosorosea KCH J2, two products were obtained: 6-methyl-8-nitro-2-phenylchromane 4-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside and 8-nitroflavan-4-ol 6-methylene-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside. 8-Bromo-6-chloroflavanone was transformed by this strain to 8-bromo-6-chloroflavan-4-ol 4′-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside. As a result of microbial transformation by I. farinosa KCH J2.6 effectively biotransformed only 8-bromo-6-chloroflavone into 8-bromo-6-chloroflavone 4′-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside. B. bassiana KCH J1.5 was able to transform 6-methyl-8-nitroflavone to 6-methyl-8-nitroflavone 4′-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside, and 3′-bromo-5′-chloro-2′-hydroxychalcone to 8-bromo-6-chloroflavanone 3′-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside. None of the filamentous fungi used transformed 2′-hydroxy-5′-methyl-3′-nitrochalcone effectively. Obtained flavonoid derivatives could be used to fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. To the best of our knowledge, all the substrates and products presented in this work are new compounds and are described for the first time.
Activation of TRPA1 in Bladder Suburothelial Myofibroblasts Counteracts TGF-β1-Induced Fibrotic Changes
Authors: Zhao Mengmeng , Ding Ning , Wang Haoyu , Zu Shulu , Liu Hanwen , Wen Jiliang , Liu Jiaxin , Ge Nan , Wang Wenzhen , Zhang Xiulin
Published: May 2023

The activation of the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channel has anti-fibrotic effects in the lung and intestine. Suburothelial myofibroblasts (subu−MyoFBs), a specialized subset of fibroblasts in the bladder, are known to express TRPA1. However, the role of the TRPA1 in the development of bladder fibrosis remains elusive. In this study, we use the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) to induce fibrotic changes in subu−MyoFBs and assess the consequences of TRPA1 activation utilizing RT-qPCR, western blotting, and immunocytochemistry. TGF-β1 stimulation increased α-SMA, collagen type I alpha 1 chain(col1A1), collagen type III (col III), and fibronectin expression, while simultaneously suppressing TRPA1 in cultured human subu−MyoFBs. The activation of TRPA1, with its specific agonist allylisothiocyanate (AITC), inhibited TGF-β1-induced fibrotic changes, and part of these inhibition effects could be reversed by the TRPA1 antagonist, HC030031, or by reducing TRPA1 expression via RNA interference. Furthermore, AITC reduced spinal cord injury-induced fibrotic bladder changes in a rat model. The increased expression of TGF-β1, α-SMA, col1A1 and col III, and fibronectin, and the downregulation of TRPA1, were also detected in the mucosa of fibrotic human bladders. These findings suggest that TRPA1 plays a pivotal role in bladder fibrosis, and the negative cross talk between TRPA1 and TGF-β1 signaling may represent one of the mechanisms underlying fibrotic bladder lesions.
Influence of DUX4 Expression in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy and Possible Treatments
Authors: Duranti Elisa , Villa Chiara
Published: May 2023

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) represents the third most common form of muscular dystrophy and is characterized by muscle weakness and atrophy. FSHD is caused by the altered expression of the transcription factor double homeobox 4 (DUX4), which is involved in several significantly altered pathways required for myogenesis and muscle regeneration. While DUX4 is normally silenced in the majority of somatic tissues in healthy individuals, its epigenetic de-repression has been linked to FSHD, resulting in DUX4 aberrant expression and cytotoxicity in skeletal muscle cells. Understanding how DUX4 is regulated and functions could provide useful information not only to further understand FSHD pathogenesis, but also to develop therapeutic approaches for this disorder. Therefore, this review discusses the role of DUX4 in FSHD by examining the possible molecular mechanisms underlying the disease as well as novel pharmacological strategies targeting DUX4 aberrant expression.
High Adherence of Oral Streptococcus to Polylactic Acid Might Explain Implant Infections Associated with PLA Mesh Implantation
Authors: Sarfraz Sonia , Tamminen Anni-Maria , Leikola Junnu , Salmi Sonja , Kaakinen Mika , Sorsa Timo , Suojanen Juho , Reunanen Justus
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the biofilm formation properties of common pathogens associated with implant-related infections on two different implant material types. Bacterial strains tested in this study were Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Escherichia coli. Implant materials tested and compared were PLA Resorb x polymer of Poly DL-lactide (PDLLA) comprising 50% poly-L-lactic acid and 50% poly-D-lactic acid) and Ti grade 2 (tooled with a Planmeca CAD-CAM milling device). Biofilm assays were done with and without saliva treatment to evaluate the effect of saliva on bacterial adhesion and to mimic the intraoral and extraoral surgical routes of implant placement, respectively. Five specimens of each implant type were tested for each bacterial strain. Autoclaved material specimens were first treated with 1:1 saliva-PBS solution for 30 min, followed by washing of specimens and the addition of bacterial suspension. Specimens with bacterial suspension were incubated for 24 h at 37 °C for biofilm formation. After 24 h, non-adhered bacteria were removed, and specimens were washed, followed by removal and calculation of adhered bacterial biofilm. S. aureus and E. faecalis showed more attachment to Ti grade 2, whereas S. mutans showed higher adherence to PLA in a statistically significant manner. The salivary coating of specimens enhanced the bacterial attachment by all the bacterial strains tested. In conclusion, both implant materials showed significant levels of bacterial adhesion, but saliva treatment played a vital role in bacterial attachment, therefore, saliva contamination of the implant materials should be minimized and considered when placing implant materials inside the body.
Proteomic and Metabolomic Changes in Psoriasis Preclinical and Clinical Aspects
Authors: Radulska Adrianna , Pelikant-Małecka Iwona , Jendernalik Kamila , Dobrucki Iwona T. , Kalinowski Leszek
Published: May 2023

Skin diseases such as psoriasis (Ps) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Overlap of autoinflammatory and autoimmune conditions hinders diagnoses and identifying personalized patient treatments due to different psoriasis subtypes and the lack of verified biomarkers. Recently, proteomics and metabolomics have been intensively investigated in a broad range of skin diseases with the main purpose of identifying proteins and small molecules involved in the pathogenesis and development of the disease. This review discusses proteomics and metabolomics strategies and their utility in research and clinical practice in psoriasis and psoriasis arthritis. We summarize the studies, from in vivo models conducted on animals through academic research to clinical trials, and highlight their contribution to the discovery of biomarkers and targets for biological drugs.
Molecular Characterization of Indigenous Rhizobia from Kenyan Soils Nodulating with Common Beans
Authors: Wekesa Clabe , Kiprotich Kelvin , Okoth Patrick , Asudi George O. , Muoma John O. , Furch Alexandra C. U. , Oelmüller Ralf
Published: May 2023

Kenya is the seventh most prominent producer of common beans globally and the second leading producer in East Africa. However, the annual national productivity is low due to insufficient quantities of vital nutrients and nitrogen in the soils. Rhizobia are symbiotic bacteria that fix nitrogen through their interaction with leguminous plants. Nevertheless, inoculating beans with commercial rhizobia inoculants results in sparse nodulation and low nitrogen supply to the host plants because these strains are poorly adapted to the local soils. Several studies describe native rhizobia with much better symbiotic capabilities than commercial strains, but only a few have conducted field studies. This study aimed to test the competence of new rhizobia strains that we isolated from Western Kenya soils and for which the symbiotic efficiency was successfully determined in greenhouse experiments. Furthermore, we present and analyze the whole-genome sequence for a promising candidate for agricultural application, which has high nitrogen fixation features and promotes common bean yields in field studies. Plants inoculated with the rhizobial isolate S3 or with a consortium of local isolates (COMB), including S3, produced a significantly higher number of seeds and seed dry weight when compared to uninoculated control plants at two study sites. The performance of plants inoculated with commercial isolate CIAT899 was not significantly different from uninoculated plants (p > 0.05), indicating tight competition from native rhizobia for nodule occupancy. Pangenome analysis and the overall genome-related indices showed that S3 is a member of R. phaseoli. However, synteny analysis revealed significant differences in the gene order, orientation, and copy numbers between S3 and the reference R. phaseoli. Isolate S3 is phylogenomically similar to R. phaseoli. However, it has undergone significant genome rearrangements (global mutagenesis) to adapt to harsh conditions in Kenyan soils. Its high nitrogen fixation ability shows optimal adaptation to Kenyan soils, and the strain can potentially replace nitrogenous fertilizer application. We recommend that extensive fieldwork in other parts of the country over a period of five years be performed on S3 to check on how the yield changes with varying whether conditions.
Roles of S-Adenosylmethionine and Its Derivatives in Salt Tolerance of Cotton
Authors: Yang Li , Wang Xingxing , Zhao Fuyong , Zhang Xianliang , Li Wei , Huang Junsen , Pei Xiaoyu , Ren Xiang , Liu Yangai , He Kunlun , Zhang Fei , Ma Xiongfeng , Yang Daigang
Published: May 2023

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that restricts cotton growth and affects fiber yield and quality. Although studies on salt tolerance have achieved great progress in cotton since the completion of cotton genome sequencing, knowledge about how cotton copes with salt stress is still scant. S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) plays important roles in many organelles with the help of the SAM transporter, and it is also a synthetic precursor for substances such as ethylene (ET), polyamines (PAs), betaine, and lignin, which often accumulate in plants in response to stresses. This review focused on the biosynthesis and signal transduction pathways of ET and PAs. The current progress of ET and PAs in regulating plant growth and development under salt stress has been summarized. Moreover, we verified the function of a cotton SAM transporter and suggested that it can regulate salt stress response in cotton. At last, an improved regulatory pathway of ET and PAs under salt stress in cotton is proposed for the breeding of salt-tolerant varieties.
Presence, Location and Conservation of Putative G-Quadruplex Forming Sequences in Arboviruses Infecting Humans
Authors: Nicoletto Giulia , Richter Sara N. , Frasson Ilaria
Published: May 2023

Guanine quadruplexes (G4s) are non-canonical nucleic acid structures formed by guanine (G)-rich tracts that assemble into a core of stacked planar tetrads. G4s are found in the human genome and in the genomes of human pathogens, where they are involved in the regulation of gene expression and genome replication. G4s have been proposed as novel pharmacological targets in humans and their exploitation for antiviral therapy is an emerging research topic. Here, we report on the presence, conservation and localization of putative G4-forming sequences (PQSs) in human arboviruses. The prediction of PQSs was performed on more than twelve thousand viral genomes, belonging to forty different arboviruses that infect humans, and revealed that the abundance of PQSs in arboviruses is not related to the genomic GC content, but depends on the type of nucleic acid that constitutes the viral genome. Positive-strand ssRNA arboviruses, especially Flaviviruses, are significantly enriched in highly conserved PQSs, located in coding sequences (CDSs) or untranslated regions (UTRs). In contrast, negative-strand ssRNA and dsRNA arboviruses contain few conserved PQSs. Our analyses also revealed the presence of bulged PQSs, accounting for 17–26% of the total predicted PQSs. The data presented highlight the presence of highly conserved PQS in human arboviruses and present non-canonical nucleic acid-structures as promising therapeutic targets in arbovirus infections.
A Manganese Porphyrin Platform for the Design and Synthesis of Molecular and Targeted MRI Contrast Agents
Authors: Vollett Kyle D. W. , Szulc Daniel A. , Cheng Hai-Ling Margaret
Published: May 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents, in contrast to the plethora of fluorescent agents available to target disease biomarkers or exogenous implants, have remained predominantly non-specific. That is, they do not preferentially accumulate in specific locations in vivo because doing so necessitates longer contrast retention, which is contraindicated for current gadolinium (Gd) agents. This double-edge sword implies that Gd agents can offer either rapid elimination (but lack specificity) or targeted accumulation (but with toxicity risks). For this reason, MRI contrast agent innovation has been severely constrained. Gd-free alternatives based on manganese (Mn) chelates have been largely ineffective, as they are inherently unstable. In this study, we present a Mn(III) porphyrin (MnP) platform for bioconjugation, offering the highest stability and chemical versatility compared to any other T1 contrast agent. We exploit the inherent metal stability conferred by porphyrins and the absence of pendant bases (found in Gd or Mn chelates) that limit versatile functionalization. As proof-of-principle, we demonstrate labeling of human serum albumin, a model protein, and collagen hydrogels for applications in in-vivo targeted imaging and material tracking, respectively. In-vitro and in-vivo results confirm unprecedented metal stability, ease of functionalization, and high T1 relaxivity. This new platform opens the door to ex-vivo validation by fluorescent imaging and multipurpose molecular imaging in vivo.
Signet-Ring Cell Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Biphenotypic Neoplasm of the Gastro-Esophageal Junction with Uncertain Biological Potential: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Satala Catalin Bogdan , Kovacs Zsolt , Bara Tivadar , Jung Ioan , Gurzu Simona
Published: May 2023

The signet-ring cell variant of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an extremely rare histological subtype, with only 24 cases (including the present case) reported in the Medline database: 15 affecting the external surface of the body, 3 in the lung, 2 affecting the uterine cervix, 1 involving the gingiva, another one affecting the esophagus and the present case that is the first reported at the gastro-esophageal junction (GEJ). In one case, the location of the lesion was not mentioned. A 59-year-old male patient underwent segmental eso-gastrectomy for carcinoma of the GEJ. The microscopic examination showed a pT3N1-staged SCC composed of solid nests admixed in over 30% of the tumor, with cells having eccentrically located nuclei and clear vacuolated cytoplasm. The signet-ring cells did not show mucinous secretion and were positive for keratin 5/6 and vimentin, with nuclear expression of β-catenin and Sox2 and focal membrane positivity for E-cadherin. Based on these features, the case was considered a signet-ring SCC with epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Thirty-one months after surgery, the patient was disease-free, with no local recurrence and no known distant metastases. In SCC, a signet-ring cell component might be an indicator of the dedifferentiation of tumor cells towards a mesenchymal molecular subtype.
Opportunities and Challenges of Kava in Lung Cancer Prevention
Authors: Freeman Breanne , Mamallapalli Jessica , Bian Tengfei , Ballas Kayleigh , Lynch Allison , Scala Alexander , Huo Zhiguang , Fredenburg Kristianna M. , Bruijnzeel Adriaan W. , Baglole Carolyn J. , Lu Junxuan , Salloum Ramzi G. , Malaty John , Xing Chengguo
Published: May 2023

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths due to its high incidence, late diagnosis, and limited success in clinical treatment. Prevention therefore is critical to help improve lung cancer management. Although tobacco control and tobacco cessation are effective strategies for lung cancer prevention, the numbers of current and former smokers in the USA and globally are not expected to decrease significantly in the near future. Chemoprevention and interception are needed to help high-risk individuals reduce their lung cancer risk or delay lung cancer development. This article will review the epidemiological data, pre-clinical animal data, and limited clinical data that support the potential of kava in reducing human lung cancer risk via its holistic polypharmacological effects. To facilitate its future clinical translation, advanced knowledge is needed with respect to its mechanisms of action and the development of mechanism-based non-invasive biomarkers in addition to safety and efficacy in more clinically relevant animal models.
Secondary Structures of MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 Spike Proteins Revealed by Infrared Vibrational Spectroscopy
Authors: D’Arco Annalisa , Di Fabrizio Marta , Mancini Tiziana , Mosetti Rosanna , Macis Salvatore , Tranfo Giovanna , Della Ventura Giancarlo , Marcelli Augusto , Petrarca Massimo , Lupi Stefano
Published: May 2023

All coronaviruses are characterized by spike glycoproteins whose S1 subunits contain the receptor binding domain (RBD). The RBD anchors the virus to the host cellular membrane to regulate the virus transmissibility and infectious process. Although the protein/receptor interaction mainly depends on the spike’s conformation, particularly on its S1 unit, their secondary structures are poorly known. In this paper, the S1 conformation was investigated for MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 at serological pH by measuring their Amide I infrared absorption bands. The SARS-CoV-2 S1 secondary structure revealed a strong difference compared to those of MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, with a significant presence of extended β-sheets. Furthermore, the conformation of the SARS-CoV-2 S1 showed a significant change by moving from serological pH to mild acidic and alkaline pH conditions. Both results suggest the capability of infrared spectroscopy to follow the secondary structure adaptation of the SARS-CoV-2 S1 to different environments.
New Glances at the Morphosyntax of Greek
Authors: Stavrou Melita , Sioupi Athina
Published: May 2023

The Greek language has a documented history of nearly 3500 years [...]