bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Radio Frequency Heating on the Pasteurization and Drying of Solid-State Fermented Wolfiporia cocos Products
Authors: Yen Yu-Fen , Chen Su-Der
Published: June 2022

Rice bran and soybean residue are high in nutrients and active ingredients. They are used as media in the solid-state fermentation of Wolfiporia cocos. They not only reduce raw material costs, but also raise the economic value and applications of soybean residues and rice bran. After 30 days of fermentation, the moisture content (w.b.) of the W. cocos product was approximately 40%, requiring it to be pasteurized and dried later. The objective of this research is to use radio frequency (RF) rapid heating technology to pasteurize and dry the solid-state fermented product. A 500 g bag of solid-state fermented W. cocos product took only 30 and 200 s at the RF electrode gap of 15 cm to pasteurize and reduce the moisture content (w.b.) below 15%, respectively; therefore, the methods can be used instead of the traditional 60 min autoclave sterilization and 100 min hot air drying at 45 °C. After RF treatment, the fermented W. cocos product was white, indicating that browning was prevented; the product contained 5.03% mycelium, 9.83% crude polysaccharide, 4.43% crude triterpene, 3.54 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight (DW) of total polyphenols, and 0.38 mg quercetin equivalent/g DW of flavonoid contents and showed a good antioxidant capacity.
Backward Stochastic Differential Equations Driven by a Jump Markov Process with Continuous and Non-Necessary Continuous Generators
Authors: Abdelhadi Khaoula , Eddahbi Mhamed , Khelfallah Nabil , Almualim Anwar
Published: June 2022

We deal with backward stochastic differential equations driven by a pure jump Markov process and an independent Brownian motion (BSDEJs for short). We start by proving the existence and uniqueness of the solutions for this type of equation and present a comparison of the solutions in the case of Lipschitz conditions in the generator. With these tools in hand, we study the existence of a (minimal) solution for BSDE where the coefficient is continuous and satisfies the linear growth condition. An existence result for BSDE with a left-continuous, increasing and bounded generator is also discussed. Finally, the general result is applied to solve one kind of quadratic BSDEJ.
Assembly of a Large Collection of Maxicircle Sequences and Their Usefulness for Leishmania Taxonomy and Strain Typing
Authors: Solana Jose Carlos , Chicharro Carmen , García Emilia , Aguado Begoña , Moreno Javier , Requena Jose M.
Published: June 2022

Parasites of medical importance, such as Leishmania and Trypanosoma, are characterized by the presence of thousands of circular DNA molecules forming a structure known as kinetoplast, within the mitochondria. The maxicircles, which are equivalent to the mitochondrial genome in other eukaryotes, have been proposed as a promising phylogenetic marker. Using whole-DNA sequencing data, it is also possible to assemble maxicircle sequences as shown here and in previous works. In this study, based on data available in public databases and using a bioinformatics workflow previously reported by our group, we assembled the complete coding region of the maxicircles for 26 prototypical strains of trypanosomatid species. Phylogenetic analysis based on this dataset resulted in a robust tree showing an accurate taxonomy of kinetoplastids, which was also able to discern between closely related Leishmania species that are usually difficult to discriminate by classical methodologies. In addition, we provide a dataset of the maxicircle sequences of 60 Leishmania infantum field isolates from America, Western Europe, North Africa, and Eastern Europe. In agreement with previous studies, our data indicate that L. infantum parasites from Brazil are highly homogeneous and closely related to European strains, which were transferred there during the discovery of America. However, this study showed the existence of different L. infantum populations/clades within the Mediterranean region. A maxicircle signature for each clade has been established. Interestingly, two L. infantum clades were found coexisting in the same region of Spain, one similar to the American strains, represented by the Spanish JPCM5 reference strain, and the other, named “non-JPC like”, may be related to an important leishmaniasis outbreak that occurred in Madrid a few years ago. In conclusion, the maxicircle sequence emerges as a robust molecular marker for phylogenetic analysis and species typing within the kinetoplastids, which also has the potential to discriminate intraspecific variability.
Nitrogen Fertigation Rate and Foliar Urea Spray Affect Plant Growth, Nitrogen, and Carbohydrate Compositions of Encore Azalea ‘Chiffon’ Grown in Alternative Containers
Authors: Li Tongyin , Zhao Xiaojie , Bi Guihong , Barickman T. Casey , Harkess Richard L.
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the plant vegetative growth, flower production, nitrogen (N) concentration, and carbohydrate compositions of Encore® azalea ‘Chiffon’ when fertigated with five N rates—0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mM N—and grown in two types of containers, a black plastic and a biodegradable container, during one growing season. Foliar urea of 3% was applied to half of the plants in late fall to investigate its effect on plant N and carbohydrate concentrations. The paper biocontainers resulted in superior plant growth, increased plant size, dry weights, root length and surface area compared with the plastic containers with N rates of 10, 15, and 20 mM. The paper biocontainers also increased N uptake and carbohydrate concentrations mainly by increasing plant biomass. High N rates of 10 to 20 mM combined with urea spray and biocontainers generally resulted in the highest plant N concentrations. Foliar urea application in late fall tended to increase plant N concentration but decreased carbohydrates, including starch, glucose, fructose, and sucrose, to varying degrees, likely due to increased N assimilation. Fall foliar urea spray can be effective in improving the N status of azalea plants without affecting plant biomass.
Cloning and Functional Analysis of NtMYB9 in ‘Jinzhanyintai’ of Narcissus tazetta var. chinensis
Authors: Fan Keke , Ma Yanjun , Chang Yanting , Hu Xiaomeng , Zhang Wenbo , Deng Yayun , Xia Mengsi , Jiang Zehui , Hu Tao
Published: June 2022

Narcissus tazetta var. chinensis M.Roem. (Chinese Narcissus) is a traditional and famous flower in China, and its corona shows a transition from green to yellow with the opening of flowers, which is of great ornamental value. To investigate the molecular mechanism of the corona color-forming in the Chinese Narcissus, in this study, a MYB gene was screened from the transcriptome of the corona by bioinformatics analysis methods, named NtMYB9. The expression level of the NtMYB9 gene was significantly higher in the corona than in the tepal, filament, ovary and leaf, and reached the highest level at the fourth period of complete coloration of the corona. The full-length sequence of the NtMYB9 coding region was cloned using the corona cDNA as a template. Sequence analysis revealed that NtMYB9 protein contained R2 and R3 domains, phylogenetic tree analysis showed that the NtMYB9 protein was most closely related to flavonol activators. Subcellular localization showed that NtMYB9 was localized in the nucleus. The overexpression of NtMYB9 gene into tobacco leaves and the expression level of seven enzyme genes related to the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway were significantly up-regulated. The transient transformation of Petunia × hybrida (Petunia) and Phalaenopsis aphrodite (Phalaenopsis) significantly revealed that the NtMYB9 gene could turn flowers yellow. These results suggest that the NtMYB9 gene is involved in the positive regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis in the Chinese Narcissus and may promote the synthesis of flavonols. In conclusion, these findings provide a valuable resource for further studies on the regulatory mechanism of the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, and they are also beneficial to the molecular breeding of Chinese Narcissus.
Dynamic Changes of Fruit Physiological Quality and Sugar Components during Fruit Growth and Development of Actinidia eriantha
Authors: Tao Junjie , Wu Mengting , Jiao Xudong , Chen Shuangshuang , Jia Dongfeng , Xu Xiaobiao , Huang Chunhui
Published: June 2022

‘Ganlv 1’ is a new cultivar of Actinidia eriantha selected from the wild natural population, which has the advantages of moderate taste, high yield, easy peeling and high ascorbic acid (AsA) content. In this study, ‘Ganlv 1’ was used to explore the changes in fruit quality, soluble sugar components, sucrose metabolism-related enzymes activities and sucrose metabolism-related enzyme genes’ expression during the fruit’s development. The results showed that, except for AsA, the changes in the fruit quality index and fruit growth and development during the development of ‘Ganlv 1’ basically exhibited the same trend. The fruit shape index was different in the different development stages of the fruit, and tended to be stable with fruit growth and development. The dynamic changes of the dry matter content indicated that the best time for fruit harvest was about 160 days after full bloom. The main sugar components in the fruit were fructose, glucose and sucrose, and sucrose and glucose were the main sugars in the soft-ripening stage. The trend of sucrose accumulation, the activities of the sucrose metabolism-related enzymes and the expression of the sucrose metabolism-related genes indicated that 130–145 days after full bloom (DAFB) might be the critical period of sucrose metabolism. The results are of great significance for clarifying the developmental characteristics and dynamic changes in the sugar components in A. eriantha fruits, and lay a foundation for further studying of the mechanism of sugar metabolism in A. eriantha.
Limitations and Recommendations for Advancing the Occupational Therapy Workforce Research Worldwide: Scoping Review and Content Analysis of the Literature
Authors: Jesus Tiago S. , Mani Karthik , Ledgerd Ritchard , Kamalakannan Sureshkumar , Bhattacharjya Sutanuka , von Zweck Claudia ,   World Federation of Occupational Therapists
Published: June 2022

Occupational therapy workforce research can help determine whether occupational therapists exist in sufficient supply, are equitably distributed, and meet competency standards. Advancing the value of occupational therapy workforce research requires an understanding of the limitations and recommendations identified by these investigations. This scoping review and content analysis synthesizes the study limitations and recommendations reported by the occupational therapy research worldwide. Two independent reviews included 57 papers from the past 25 years. Stated limitations included: focus on cross-sectional studies with small and convenience samples; participants from single settings or regions; local markets or preferences not specified; focus on self-reported data and intentions (rather than behaviors or occurrences); challenges in aggregating or synthesizing findings from descriptive data; lack of statistical adjustment for testing multiple associations; and the lack of detailed, up-to-date, and accessible workforce data for continuous monitoring and secondary research. Stated recommendations included: strengthening routine workforce data collection; developing longitudinal studies that include interventions (e.g., recruitment or retention packages); developing context-sensitive comparisons; studying the impact on ultimate outcomes; promoting nation-wide, coordinated workforce plans and requirements; and fostering international coalitions for workforce research and developments at scale. These study limitations and recommendations reported by the literature must be considered in the design of a local and global occupational therapy workforce research agenda.
How Government Size Expansion Can Affect Green Innovation—An Empirical Analysis of Data on Cross-Country Green Patent Filings
Authors: Wen Jun , Li Lingxiao , Zhao Xinxin , Jiao Chenyang , Li Wenjie
Published: June 2022

The expansion of government size will have dual effects on a country’s green innovation. An appropriately sized government size increases marginal productivity and stimulates the development of green innovation by increasing government expenditure. On the contrary, an excessively sized government creates a huge administrative agency, which not only increases the tax burden but also damages social welfare by excessive intervention. Therefore, the effect of government size on green innovation is not linear. In order to prove this proposition, this study examines the impact of government size on green innovation in 166 countries between 1995 and 2018, using a two-way fixed effects model. The results reveal an inverted U-shaped relationship between government size and the level of green innovation, indicating that optimal government size may maximize a country’s green innovation output. The results further suggest that this inverted U-shaped relationship is mainly influenced by environmental regulations and financial support. Finally, our heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that the inverted U-shaped relationship is more pronounced for countries with high organizational inertia and more R&D expenditure than for those with low organizational inertia and less R&D expenditure. This finding makes up for the research gap between government size and green innovation and provides a reference for countries to formulate the optimal government size to improve the level of green innovation.
The Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Second Wave on Shielders and Their Family Members
Authors: Daniels Jo , Rettie Hannah
Published: June 2022

In March 2020, individuals shielding from coronavirus reported high rates of distress. This study investigated whether fear of contamination (FoC) and use of government-recommended behaviours (GRB; e.g., handwashing and wearing masks) were associated with psychological distress during February 2021. An online cross-sectional questionnaire assessed psychological distress in three groups (shielding self, shielding other/s, and control), and those shielding others also completed an adapted measure of health anxiety (α = 0.94). The sample (N = 723) was predominantly female (84%) with a mean age of 41.72 (SD = 15.15). Those shielding (self) demonstrated significantly higher rates of health anxiety and FoC in comparison to other groups (p < 0.001). The use of GRB was significantly lower in controls (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between the two shielding groups (p = 0.753). Rates of anxiety were higher when compared to March 2020 findings, except for controls. Hierarchical regressions indicated FoC and GRB accounted for 24% of variance in generalised anxiety (p < 0.001) and 28% in health anxiety, however, the latter was a non-significant predictor in final models. Those shielding themselves and others during the pandemic have experienced sustained levels of distress; special consideration must be given to those indirectly affected. Psychological interventions should account for realistic FoC and the impact of government-recommended health behaviours, as these factors are associated with distress in vulnerable groups and may extend beyond the pandemic. Future research should focus on longitudinal designs to monitor and better understand the clinical needs of those shielding, and those shielding others post-pandemic.
Gender Differences in Correlates of Loneliness among Community-Dwelling Older Koreans
Authors: Kim Young Bum , Lee Seung Hee
Published: June 2022

Background: Despite a relatively large number of studies exploring late-life loneliness, few studies have compared gender differences in the correlates of loneliness of older adults. Thus, we examined the gender differences in correlates of loneliness among community-dwelling older adults. Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of data from a parent study conducted among community-dwelling Koreans 65 years of age or older. Loneliness was measured by the 20-item Revised University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale. As potential correlates, demographic, health-related, and social variables were included. Multivariate hierarchical regression analyses were performed separately by gender. Results: Men were more likely to be lonely than women, after controlling for demographic, health-related, and social variables. A social network of family ties and being married were found to be inversely correlated with loneliness in men but not in women. A social network of friendship ties and participation in a variety of community activities were inversely correlated with loneliness in both men and women. Conclusions: A social network of family ties and being married may help reduce late-life loneliness, particularly among men. This study highlights the importance of considering gender differences in the design of strategies for preventing and alleviating late-life loneliness.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Factors Associated with Intimate Partner Femicide: A Systematic Review
Authors: Garcia-Vergara Esperanza , Almeda Nerea , Martín Ríos Blanca , Becerra-Alonso David , Fernández-Navarro Francisco
Published: June 2022

There has been a growing concern about violence against women by intimate partners due to its incidence and severity. This type of violence is a severe problem that has taken the lives of thousands of women worldwide and is expected to continue in the future. A limited amount of research exclusively considers factors related only to these women’s deaths. Most focus on deaths of both men and women in an intimate partnership and do not provide precise results on the phenomenon under study. The necessity for an actual synthesis of factors linked solely to women’s deaths in heterosexual relationships is key to a comprehensive knowledge of that case. This could assist in identifying high-risk cases by professionals involving an interdisciplinary approach. The study’s objective is to systematically review the factors associated with these deaths. Twenty-four studies found inclusion criteria extracted from seven databases (Dialnet, Web of Science, Pubmed, Criminal Justice, Psychology and Behavioral Science Collection, Academic Search Ultimate, and APA Psyarticles). The review was carried out under the PRISMA guidelines’ standards. The studies’ quality assessment complies with the MMAT guidelines. Findings revealed that there are specific factors of the aggressor, victim, partner’s relationship, and environment associated with women’s deaths. The results have implications for predicting and preventing women’s deaths, providing scientific knowledge applied to develop public action programs, guidelines, and reforms.
Cognition Impairment and Gait Disorders in Older Adults
Authors: Manckoundia Patrick , Mourey France
Published: June 2022

Thanks to the increase in life expectancy linked to scientific and medical progress and improvements in hygiene conditions, the population of people aged 75 years and over continues to grow worldwide, particularly in industrialized countries [...]
Development of a Medium Care Unit Using an Inexperienced Respiratory Staff: Lessons Learned during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Van Hove Olivier , Gillet Alexis , Tack Jérôme , Reychler Gregory , Guatteri Magda , Ballarin Asuncion , Thomas Justine , Espinoza Rolando , Bonnier Frédéric , Norrenberg Michelle , Daniel Pauline , Toussaint Michel , Leduc Dimitri , Bonnechère Bruno , Taton Olivier
Published: June 2022

The different waves of the COVID-19 pandemic caused dramatic issues regarding the organization of care. In this context innovative solutions have to be developed in a timely manner to adapt to the organization of the care. The establishment of middle care (MC) units is a bright example of such an adaptation. A multidisciplinary MC team, including expert and non-expert respiratory health care personnel, was developed and trained to work in a COVID-19 MC unit. Important educational resources were set up to ensure rapid and effective training of the MC team, limiting the admission or delaying transfers to ICU and ensuring optimal management of palliative care. We conducted a retrospective analysis of patient data in the MC unit during the second COVID-19 wave in Belgium. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of quickly developing an effective respiratory MC unit mixing respiratory expert and non-expert members from outside ICUs. The establishment of an MC unit during a pandemic is feasible and needed. MC units possibly relieve the pressure exerted on ICUs. A highly trained multidisciplinary team is key to ensuring the success of an MC unit during such kind of a pandemic.
Application of Place-Based Methods to Lung Transplant Medicine
Authors: Tsuang Wayne M. , MacMurdo Maeve , Curtis Jacqueline
Published: June 2022

Lung transplantation is an increasingly common lifesaving therapy for patients with fatal lung diseases, but this intervention has a critical limitation as median survival after LT is merely 5.5 years. Despite the profound impact of place-based factors on lung health, this has not been rigorously investigated in LT recipients—a vulnerable population due to the lifelong need for daily life-sustaining immunosuppression medications. There have also been longstanding methodological gaps in transplant medicine where both time and place have not been measured; gaps which could be filled by the geospatial sciences. As part of an exploratory analysis, we studied recipients transplanted at our center over a two-year period. The main outcome was at least one episode of rejection within the first year after transplant. We found recipients averaged 1.7 unique residential addresses, a modest relocation rate. Lung rejection was associated with census tracts of predominantly underrepresented minorities or where English was not the primary language as measured by the social vulnerability index. Census tracts likely play an important role in measuring and addressing geographic disparities in transplantation. In a future paradigm, patient spatial data could become an integrated part of real time clinical care to aid in personalized risk stratification and personalized delivery of healthcare.
The Role of Grass Compost and Zea Mays in Alleviating Toxic Effects of Tetracycline on the Soil Bacteria Community
Authors: Wyszkowska Jadwiga , Borowik Agata , Kucharski Jan
Published: June 2022

Given their common use for disease treatment in humans, and particularly in animals, antibiotics pose an exceptionally serious threat to the soil environment. This study aimed to determine the response of soil bacteria and oxidoreductases to a tetracycline (Tc) contamination, and to establish the usability of grass compost (G) and Zea mays (Zm) in mitigating adverse Tc effects on selected microbial properties of the soil. The scope of microbiological analyses included determinations of bacteria with the conventional culture method and new-generation sequencing method (NGS). Activities of soil dehydrogenases and catalase were determined as well. Tc was found to reduce counts of organotrophic bacteria and actinobacteria in the soils as well as the activity of soil oxidoreductases. Soil fertilization with grass compost (G) and Zea mays (Zm) cultivation was found to alleviate the adverse effects of tetracycline on the mentioned group of bacteria and activity of oxidoreductases. The metagenomic analysis demonstrated that the bacteria belonging to Acidiobacteria and Proteobacteria phyla were found to prevail in the soil samples. The study results recommend soil fertilization with G and Zm cultivation as successful measures in the bioremediation of tetracycline-contaminated soils and indicate the usability of the so-called core bacteria in the bioaugmentation of such soils.
Alcohol Abuse Associated with Accumulated Periods of Precarious Employment: A Four-Year Follow-Up Study of a Young Population in Korea
Authors: Park Sungjin , Lee June-Hee , Lee Jongin
Published: June 2022

This study aims to explore how precarious employment among young age groups affects alcohol-use disorders. Using samples from Youth Panel 2007, a longitudinal and annual follow-up survey, the association between alcohol-use disorder assessed with CAGE and the accumulated years of precarious employment was assessed with logistic regression analysis. During the 4-year follow-up period, precarious employment for 2–4 years (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.02–4.24) showed a significantly increased risk of alcohol-use disorder compared with the full-time permanent sustained group. Among young male adults, precarious employment for 2–4 years (OR 2.57, 95% CI 1.07–6.14) also showed a significantly increased risk of alcohol-use disorder, while it was not significant in women (OR 1.51, 95% CI 0.43–5.31). Although the prevalence of alcohol-use disorders was highest in groups with precarious employment for 2–4 years among female young adults, no significant association between alcohol-use disorders and precarious employment was found. This study suggests that the longer the precarious employment, the higher the risk of alcohol-dependence disorder, and showed that the tendency was stronger in males. In addition, because people engaged in precarious employment are vulnerable to alcohol-use disorders, policy programs focusing on them are needed.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Key Genes and Pathways Associated with the Petal Color Formation in Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata)
Authors: Zhang Bin , Wang Jiao , Chen Li , Ren Wenjing , Han Fengqing , Fang Zhiyuan , Yang Limei , Zhuang Mu , Lv Honghao , Wang Yong , Ji Jialei , Zhang Yangyong
Published: June 2022

Petal color is an important agronomic trait in cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata). Although the key gene BoCCD4 has been functionally characterized, the underlying molecular regulatory mechanism of petal color formation in cabbage is still unclear. In this study, we applied the transcriptome analysis of yellow petals from the cabbage inbred line YL-1 and white petals from the Chinese kale inbred line A192-1 and the BoCCD4-overexpressing transgenic line YF-2 (YL-1 background), which revealed 1928 DEGs common to both the A192-1 vs. YL-1 and the YL-1 vs. YF-2 comparison groups. One key enzyme-encoding gene, BoAAO3, and two key TF-encoding genes, Bo2g151880 (WRKY) and Bo3g024180 (SBP), related to carotenoid biosynthesis were significantly up-regulated in both the A192-1 and YF-2 petals, which was consistent with the expression pattern of BoCCD4. We speculate that these key genes may interact with BoCCD4 to jointly regulate carotenoid biosynthesis in cabbage petals. This study provides new insights into the molecular regulatory mechanism underlying petal color formation in cabbage.
Binding of Citrate-Fe3+ to Plastic Culture Dishes, an Artefact Useful as a Simple Technique to Screen for New Iron Chelators
Authors: Ogura Jiro , Sato Toshihiro , Higuchi Kei , Sivaprakasam Sathish , Kopel Jonathan , Bhutia Yangzom D. , Ganapathy Vadivel
Published: June 2022

NaCT mediates citrate uptake in the liver cell line HepG2. When these cells were exposed to iron (Fe3+), citrate uptake/binding as monitored by the association of [14C]-citrate with cells increased. However, there was no change in NaCT expression and function, indicating that NaCT was not responsible for this Fe3+-induced citrate uptake/binding. Interestingly however, the process exhibited substrate selectivity and saturability as if the process was mediated by a transporter. Notwithstanding these features, subsequent studies demonstrated that the iron-induced citrate uptake/binding did not involve citrate entry into cells; instead, the increase was due to the formation of citrate-Fe3+ chelate that adsorbed to the cell surface. Surprisingly, the same phenomenon was observed in culture wells without HepG2 cells, indicating the adsorption of the citrate-Fe3+ chelate to the plastic surface of culture wells. We used this interesting phenomenon as a simple screening technique for new iron chelators with the logic that if another iron chelator is present in the assay system, it would compete with citrate for binding to Fe3+ and prevent the formation and adsorption of citrate-Fe3+ to the culture well. This technique was validated with the known iron chelators deferiprone and deferoxamine, and with the bacterial siderophore 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid and the catechol carbidopa.
Retrograde Axonal Transport of Liposomes from Peripheral Tissue to Spinal Cord and DRGs by Optimized Phospholipid and CTB Modification
Authors: Fukui Takafumi , Tateno Hironao , Nakamura Takashi , Yamada Yuma , Sato Yusuke , Iwasaki Norimasa , Harashima Hideyoshi , Kadoya Ken
Published: June 2022

Despite recent advancements in therapeutic options for disorders of the central nervous system (CNS), the lack of an efficient drug-delivery system (DDS) hampers their clinical application. We hypothesized that liposomes could be optimized for retrograde transport in axons as a DDS from peripheral tissues to the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRGs). Three types of liposomes consisting of DSPC, DSPC/POPC, or POPC in combination with cholesterol (Chol) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) lipid were administered to sciatic nerves or the tibialis anterior muscle of mature rats. Liposomes in cell bodies were detected with infrared fluorescence of DiD conjugated to liposomes. Three days later, all nerve-administered liposomes were retrogradely transported to the spinal cord and DRGs, whereas only muscle-administered liposomes consisting of DSPC reached the spinal cord and DRGs. Modification with Cholera toxin B subunit improved the transport efficiency of liposomes to the spinal cord and DRGs from 4.5% to 17.3% and from 3.9% to 14.3% via nerve administration, and from 2.6% to 4.8% and from 2.3% to 4.1% via muscle administration, respectively. Modification with octa-arginine (R8) improved the transport efficiency via nerve administration but abolished the transport capability via muscle administration. These findings provide the initial data for the development of a novel DDS targeting the spinal cord and DRGs via peripheral administration.
Comprehensive Analysis for GRF Transcription Factors in Sacred Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)
Authors: Chen Gui-Zhen , Huang Jie , Zhou Xiao-Qin , Hao Yang , Chen Jin-Liao , Zhou Yu-Zhen , Ahmad Sagheer , Lan Siren , Liu Zhong-Jian , Peng Dong-Hui
Published: June 2022

Sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic perennial plant with essential food, ornamental, and pharmacological value. Growth-regulating factor (GRF) is a transcription factor (TF) family that plays an important role in regulating the growth and development of plants. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of the GRF family in N. nucifera was performed, and its role in N. nucifera development was studied. A total of eight GRF genes were identified in the N. nucifera genome. Phylogenetic analysis divided the 38 GRF genes into six clades, while the NuGRFs only contained five clades. The analyses of gene structures, motifs, and cis-acting regulatory elements of the GRF gene family were performed. In addition, the chromosome location and collinearity were analyzed. The expression pattern based on transcriptomic data and real-time reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) revealed that the GRF genes were expressed in multiple organs and were abundant in actively growing tissues, and the expression levels decreased as the age of N. nucifera increased. Then, 3D structures of the NuGRF proteins were predicted by homology modeling. Finally, the subcellular localization of GRF1 was ascertained in the tobacco leaf through a vector. Therefore, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the GRF TF family in N. nucifera.
Col4a3-/- Mice on Balb/C Background Have Less Severe Cardiorespiratory Phenotype and SGLT2 Over-Expression Compared to 129x1/SvJ and C57Bl/6 Backgrounds
Authors: Irion Camila I. , Williams Monique , Capcha Jose Condor , Eisenberg Trevor , Lambert Guerline , Takeuchi Lauro M. , Seo Grace , Yousefi Keyvan , Kanashiro-Takeuchi Rosemeire , Webster Keith A. , Young Karen C. , Hare Joshua M. , Shehadeh Lina A.
Published: June 2022

Alport syndrome (AS) is a hereditary renal disorder with no etiological therapy. In the preclinical Col4a3-/- model of AS, disease progression and severity vary depending on mouse strain. The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) is emerging as an attractive therapeutic target in cardiac/renal pathologies, but its application to AS remains untested. This study investigates cardiorespiratory function and SGLT2 renal expression in Col4a3-/- mice from three different genetic backgrounds, 129x1/SvJ, C57Bl/6 and Balb/C. male Col4a3-/- 129x1/SvJ mice displayed alterations consistent with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Female, but not male, C57Bl/6 and Balb/C Col4a3-/- mice exhibited mild changes in systolic and diastolic function of the heart by echocardiography. Male C57Bl/6 Col4a3-/- mice presented systolic dysfunction by invasive hemodynamic analysis. All strains except Balb/C males demonstrated alterations in respiratory function. SGLT2 expression was significantly increased in AS compared to WT mice from all strains. However, cardiorespiratory abnormalities and SGLT2 over-expression were significantly less in AS Balb/C mice compared to the other two strains. Systolic blood pressure was significantly elevated only in mutant 129x1/SvJ mice. The results provide further evidence for strain-dependent cardiorespiratory and hypertensive phenotype variations in mouse AS models, corroborated by renal SGLT2 expression, and support ongoing initiatives to develop SGLT2 inhibitors for the treatment of AS.
Biglycan Is a Novel Mineralocorticoid Receptor Target Involved in Aldosterone/Salt-Induced Glomerular Injury
Authors: Nakamura Toshifumi , Bonnard Benjamin , Palacios-Ramirez Roberto , Fernández-Celis Amaya , Jaisser Frédéric , López-Andrés Natalia
Published: June 2022

The beneficial effects of mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists (MRAs) for various kidney diseases are established. However, the underlying mechanisms of kidney injury induced by MR activation remain to be elucidated. We recently reported aldosterone-induced enhancement of proteoglycan expression in mitral valve interstitial cells and its association with fibromyxomatous valvular disorder. As the expression of certain proteoglycans is elevated in several kidney diseases, we hypothesized that proteoglycans mediate kidney injury in the context of aldosterone/MR pathway activation. We evaluated the proteoglycan expression and tissue injury in the kidney and isolated glomeruli of uninephrectomy/aldosterone/salt (NAS) mice. The MRA eplerenone was administered to assess the role of the MR pathway. We investigated the direct effects of biglycan, one of the proteoglycans, on macrophages using isolated macrophages. The kidney samples from NAS-treated mice showed enhanced fibrosis and increased expression of biglycan accompanying glomerular macrophage infiltration and enhanced expression of TNF-α, iNOS, Nox2, CCL3 (C-C motif chemokine ligand 3), and phosphorylated NF-κB. Eplerenone blunted these changes. Purified biglycan stimulated macrophages to express TNF-α, iNOS, Nox2, and CCL3. This was prevented by a toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) or NF-κB inhibitor, indicating that biglycan stimulation is dependent on the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. We identified the proteoglycan biglycan as a novel target of MR involved in MR-induced glomerular injury and macrophage infiltration via a biglycan/TLR4/NF-κB/CCL3 cascade.
Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses of Cold-Tolerant and Cold-Sensitive Pepper Species Reveal Key Genes and Essential Metabolic Pathways Involved in Response to Cold Stress
Authors: Gao Chonglun , Mumtaz Muhammad Ali , Zhou Yan , Yang Zhuang , Shu Huangying , Zhu Jie , Bao Wenlong , Cheng Shanhan , Yin Liyan , Huang Jiaquan , Wang Zhiwei
Published: June 2022

Cold stress, triggered by particularly low temperatures, is one of the most severe forms of abiotic stress in pepper plants and a major constraint to the global pepper industry, threatening crop production and food security. To acclimatize to extreme conditions, the plant undergoes numerous modifications, including genetic and metabolic modulations. A thorough study of both the genetic and metabolic alterations of plants in response to cold stress is vital to understanding and developing the cold stress resistance mechanism. This study implemented transcriptome and metabolome analyses to evaluate the cold stress response in cold-tolerant and cold-sensitive pepper species. The weighted gene co-expression network revealed three significant modules related to cold stress tolerance in Capsicum pubescens. We identified 17 commonly enriched genes among both species at different time points in 10 different comparisons, including the AP2 transcription factor, LRR receptor-like serine, hypersensitivity-related 4-like protein, and uncharacterized novel.295 and novel.6172 genes. A pathway enrichment analysis indicated that these DEGs were mainly associated with the MAPK signaling pathway, hormone signaling pathway, and primary and secondary metabolism. Additionally, 21 significantly differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified in both species after 6 h of cold stress. A transcriptome and metabolome integrated analysis revealed that 54 genes correlated with metabolites enriched in five different pathways. Most genes and metabolites involved in carbohydrate metabolism, the TCA cycle, and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways were upregulated in cold-tolerant plants under cold stress. Together, the results of this study provide a comprehensive gene regulatory and metabolic network in response to cold stress and identified some key genes and metabolic pathways involved in pepper cold tolerance. This study lays a foundation for the functional characterization and development of pepper cultivars with improved cold tolerance.
Loss of Heterozygosity for KrasG12D Promotes Malignant Phenotype of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma by Activating HIF-2α-c-Myc-Regulated Glutamine Metabolism
Authors: Ma Yu , Ling Sunkai , Li Yuan , Hu Mingyue , Kong Bo , Huang Peilin , Liu Hui
Published: June 2022

Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) for KRAS, in which a wild-type KRAS allele is progressively lost, promotes invasive and migratory abilities of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells and tissues. Moreover, the occurrence of KrasG12D-LOH activates nonclassical glutamine metabolism, which is related to the malignant behavior of PDAC cells. Herein, we aim to demonstrate the regulatory link between hypoxia-inducible factor-2α (HIF-2α) and glutamine metabolism that mediates malignant phenotypes in KrasG12D-LOH PDAC cells. HIF-2α-shRNA knockdown lentivirus transfection and metabolite analysis were performed in KrasG12D-LOH and KrasG12D cell lines, respectively. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were examined using Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, and Transwell assays. Cell cycle phase and apoptosis were determined using flow cytometry. Western blotting and real-time quantitative PCR were also performed. Additionally, a subcutaneous xenograft mouse model was established. LOH stimulated HIF-2α activity and transactivated c-Myc, which has a central regulatory effect on glutamine metabolism independent of hypoxia. Meanwhile, HIF-2α silencing repressed KrasG12D-LOH PDAC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. HIF-2α knockdown inhibited glutamine uptake and GOT1 expression via a c-Myc-dependent pathway. Collectively, KrasG12D-LOH can activate HIF-2α to regulate c-Myc-mediated glutamine metabolism and promote malignant phenotypes. Moreover, targeting HIF-2α-c-Myc regulated nonclassical glutamine metabolism, providing a new therapeutic perspective for KrasG12D-LOH PDAC.
Pathophysiology of Diverticular Disease: From Diverticula Formation to Symptom Generation
Authors: Barbaro Maria Raffaella , Cremon Cesare , Fuschi Daniele , Marasco Giovanni , Palombo Marta , Stanghellini Vincenzo , Barbara Giovanni
Published: June 2022

Diverticular disease is a common clinical problem, particularly in industrialized countries. In most cases, colonic diverticula remain asymptomatic throughout life and sometimes are found incidentally during colonic imaging in colorectal cancer screening programs in otherwise healthy subjects. Nonetheless, roughly 25% of patients bearing colonic diverticula develop clinical manifestations. Abdominal symptoms associated with diverticula in the absence of inflammation or complications are termed symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD). The pathophysiology of diverticular disease as well as the mechanisms involved in the shift from an asymptomatic condition to a symptomatic one is still poorly understood. It is accepted that both genetic factors and environment, as well as intestinal microenvironment alterations, have a role in diverticula development and in the different phenotypic expressions of diverticular disease. In the present review, we will summarize the up-to-date knowledge on the pathophysiology of diverticula and their different clinical setting, including diverticulosis and SUDD.
Peptides for Health Benefits 2020
Authors: Martínez-Villaluenga Cristina , Hernández-Ledesma Blanca
Published: June 2022

In recent years, peptides have received increased interest in pharmaceutical, food, cosmetics, and various other fields [...]
Image Moment-Based Features for Mass Detection in Breast US Images via Machine Learning and Neural Network Classification Models
Authors: Anghelache Nastase Iulia-Nela , Moldovanu Simona , Moraru Luminita
Published: June 2022

Differentiating between malignant and benign masses using machine learning in the recognition of breast ultrasound (BUS) images is a technique with good accuracy and precision, which helps doctors make a correct diagnosis. The method proposed in this paper integrates Hu’s moments in the analysis of the breast tumor. The extracted features feed a k-nearest neighbor (k-NN) classifier and a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) to classify breast tumors into benign and malignant. The raw images and the tumor masks provided as ground-truth images belong to the public digital BUS images database. Certain metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity, precision, and F1-score were used to evaluate the segmentation results and to select Hu’s moments showing the best capacity to discriminate between malignant and benign breast tissues in BUS images. Regarding the selection of Hu’s moments, the k-NN classifier reached 85% accuracy for moment M1 and 80% for moment M5 whilst RBFNN reached an accuracy of 76% for M1. The proposed method might be used to assist the clinical diagnosis of breast cancer identification by providing a good combination between segmentation and Hu’s moments.
OCT Results in Myopia: Diagnostic Difficulties in Clinical Practice?
Authors: Snezhana Murgova , Georgi Balchev
Published: June 2022

Background: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a modern, non-invasive technique for examining the posterior segment of the eye in vivo. The quality of images is crucial for the diagnostic process. Despite good image quality and high signal strength, we still obtain images with less relevant diagnostic data, especially in relation to RNFL and GCL thickness in myopic and hyperopic eyes. Aim: To evaluate the change of RNFL, GCL thickness and rim and disk areas in myopic eyes that underwent OCT examination before and after refractive correction with contact lenses or glasses. Method: A prospective cross-sectional pilot study included 43 eyes in 22 patients with myopia and hyperopia, with or without astigmatism. Patients were examined using OCT with and without contact lenses or glasses. Results: RNFL thickness, GCL thickness, rim area and disk area average and minimum values were significantly changed after correction with glasses or contact lenses. Conclusion: Myopic patients with greater than −2.50 D have to be examined using OCT with their contact lens or glasses corrections in the case of borderline data. Uncorrected myopic eyes show a thinner RNFL and GCL and smaller disk areas, which may mislead ophthalmologists.
Comprehensive RNA Expression Analysis Revealed Biological Functions of Key Gene Sets and Identified Disease-Associated Cell Types Involved in Rat Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Tang Qilin , Song Mengmeng , Zhao Rongrong , Han Xiao , Deng Lin , Xue Hao , Li Weiguo , Li Gang
Published: June 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a worldwide public health concern without major therapeutic breakthroughs over the past decades. Developing effective treatment options and improving the prognosis of TBI depends on a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying TBI. This study performed a comprehensive analysis of 15 RNA expression datasets of rat TBIs from the GEO database. By integrating the results from the various analyses, this study investigated the biological processes, pathways, and cell types associated with TBI and explored the activity of these cells during various TBI phases. The results showed the response to cytokine, inflammatory response, bacteria-associated response, metabolic and biosynthetic processes, and pathways of neurodegeneration to be involved in the pathogenesis of TBI. The cellular abundance of microglia, perivascular macrophages (PM), and neurons were found to differ after TBI and at different times postinjury. In conclusion, immune- and inflammation-related pathways, as well as pathways of neurodegeneration, are closely related to TBI. Microglia, PM, and neurons are thought to play roles in TBI with different activities that vary by phase of TBI.
Ecological Momentary Assessment of Awake Bruxism with a Smartphone Application Requires Prior Patient Instruction for Enhanced Terminology Comprehension: A Multi-Center Study
Authors: Nykänen Laura , Manfredini Daniele , Lobbezoo Frank , Kämppi Antti , Colonna Anna , Zani Alessandra , Almeida André , Emodi-Perlman Alona , Savolainen Aslak , Bracci Alessandro , Ahlberg Jari
Published: June 2022

The prevalence of awake bruxism (AB) has been reported as being 30%, with sleep bruxism (SB) at 9–15%. Most studies have focused on SB, emphasizing the importance of AB research. For epidemiological evaluations of AB, a smartphone application based on ecological momentary assessment (EMA) was introduced. The aims of this multi-center study were: (1) to investigate how well lay subjects comprehend the AB terminology used in the smartphone application, and (2) to find out whether professional instruction improved their comprehension. The study population consisted of lay subjects from Italy, Portugal, and Finland comprising 307 individuals (156 men, 151 women; 18–86 years). Subjects first completed a five-item questionnaire about the meanings of the five AB terms used in the smartphone application. Each question offered four answer options, with one being correct. Immediately afterwards, the meanings of the terms were instructed. Lastly, the subjects were re-tested with the same questionnaire. In Finland and Italy, the re-tested correct answer scores for the single terms were at 89–97% per term. Improved comprehension was seen across sex, education, and age groups. In the Portuguese data, no improvement was found. Significant differences were found between countries in the improved scores for all terms that were correct following the instruction (Finland, 16.3% to 72.1%; Italy, 32.3% to 83.8%; Portugal, 23.1% to 33.7%) (p < 0.001). In conclusion, standardized instruction on AB terminology prior to EMA is recommended to improve the reliability of collected data.