bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Microbiota-Modified Bile Acids in the Regulation of Intracellular Organelles and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Kiriyama Yoshimitsu , Nochi Hiromi
Published: March 2023

Bile acids (BAs) are amphiphilic steroidal molecules generated from cholesterol in the liver and facilitate the digestion and absorption of fat-soluble substances in the gut. Some BAs in the intestine are modified by the gut microbiota. Because BAs are modified in a variety of ways by different types of bacteria present in the gut microbiota, changes in the gut microbiota can affect the metabolism of BAs in the host. Although most BAs absorbed from the gut are transferred to the liver, some are transferred to the systemic circulation. Furthermore, BAs have also been detected in the brain and are thought to migrate into the brain through the systemic circulation. Although BAs are known to affect a variety of physiological functions by acting as ligands for various nuclear and cell-surface receptors, BAs have also been found to act on mitochondria and autophagy in the cell. This review focuses on the BAs modified by the gut microbiota and their roles in intracellular organelles and neurodegenerative diseases.
Mutational Spectrum, Ocular and Olfactory Phenotypes of CNGB1-Related RP-Olfactory Dysfunction Syndrome in a Multiethnic Cohort
Authors: Geada Sara , Teixeira-Marques Francisco , Teixeira Bruno , Carvalho Ana Luísa , Lousan Nuno , Saraiva Jorge , Murta Joaquim , Silva Rufino , Zanlonghi Xavier , Defoort-Dhellemmes Sabine , Smirnov Vasily , Dhaenens Claire-Marie , Blanchet Catherine , Meunier Isabelle , Marques João Pedro
Published: March 2023

CNGB1 gene mutations are a well-known cause of autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (RP), which was recently associated with olfactory dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to report the molecular spectrum and the ocular and olfactory phenotypes of a multiethnic cohort with CNGB1-associated RP. A cross-sectional case series was conducted at two ophthalmic genetics referral centers. Consecutive patients with molecularly confirmed CNGB1-related RP were included. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmological examination complemented by psychophysical olfactory evaluation. Fifteen patients (10 families: 8 Portuguese, 1 French, and 1 Turkish), mean aged 57.13 ± 15.37 years old (yo), were enrolled. Seven disease-causing variants were identified, two of which are reported for the first time: c.2565_2566del and c.2285G > T. Although 11/15 patients reported onset of nyctalopia before age 10, diagnosis was only established after 30 yo in 9/15. Despite widespread retinal degeneration being present in 14/15 probands, a relatively preserved visual acuity was observed throughout follow-up. Olfactory function was preserved in only 4/15 patients, all of whom carried at least one missense variant. Our study supports previous reports of an autosomal recessive RP-olfactory dysfunction syndrome in association with certain disease-causing variants in the CNGB1 gene and expands the mutational spectrum of CNGB1-related disease by reporting two novel variants.
An Automated Mapping Method of 3D Geological Cross-Sections Using 2D Geological Cross-Sections and a DEM
Authors: Shang Hao , Shen Yan-Gen , Li Shuang , Li An-Bo , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2023

With the three-dimensional (3D) geological information system development, 3D geological cross-sections (GCs) have become the primary data for geological work and scientific research. Throughout past geological surveys or research works, a lot of two-dimensional (2D) geological cross-section maps have been accumulated, which struggle to meet the scientific research and application needs of 3D visual expression, 3D geological analysis, and many other aspects. Therefore, this paper proposes an automatic generation method for 3D GCs by increasing the dimensions based on a digital elevation model (DEM) and 2D geological cross-section maps. By matching corresponding nodes, generating topographic feature lines, constructing an affine transformation matrix, and inferring the elevation value of each geometric node on the GC, the 3D transformation of the 2D GCs is realized. In this study, fourteen 2D GCs within Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, are transformed into 3D GCs using the proposed method. The transformed results and quantitative error show that: (1) the proposed method applies to both straight and bent GCs; (2) each transformed GC can fit seamlessly with the ground and maintain minimal geometric deformation, and the geometric shape is consistent with the original GC in non-mountains area. This paper corroborated the proposed method’s effectiveness by comparing it with the other two 3D transformation strategies. In addition, the transformed GCs can be subjected to 3D geological modeling and digital Earth presentation, achieving positive effects in both 3D application and representation.
Post-Transcriptional Regulatory Crosstalk between MicroRNAs and Canonical TGF-β/BMP Signalling Cascades on Osteoblast Lineage: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Loh Hui-Yi , Norman Brendan P. , Lai Kok-Song , Cheng Wan-Hee , Nik Abd. Rahman Nik Mohd Afizan , Mohamed Alitheen Noorjahan Banu , Osman Mohd Azuraidi
Published: March 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of small, single-stranded, and non-protein coding RNAs about 19 to 22 nucleotides in length, that have been reported to have important roles in the control of bone development. MiRNAs have a strong influence on osteoblast differentiation through stages of lineage commitment and maturation, as well as via controlling the activities of osteogenic signal transduction pathways. Generally, miRNAs may modulate cell stemness, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis by binding the 3′-untranslated regions (3′-UTRs) of the target genes, which then can subsequently undergo messenger RNA (mRNA) degradation or protein translational repression. MiRNAs manage the gene expression in osteogenic differentiation by regulating multiple signalling cascades and essential transcription factors, including the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/bone morphogenic protein (BMP), Wingless/Int-1(Wnt)/β-catenin, Notch, and Hedgehog signalling pathways; the Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2); and osterix (Osx). This shows that miRNAs are essential in regulating diverse osteoblast cell functions. TGF-βs and BMPs transduce signals and exert diverse functions in osteoblastogenesis, skeletal development and bone formation, bone homeostasis, and diseases. Herein, we highlighted the current state of in vitro and in vivo research describing miRNA regulation on the canonical TGF-β/BMP signalling, their effects on osteoblast linage, and understand their mechanism of action for the development of possible therapeutics. In this review, particular attention and comprehensive database searches are focused on related works published between the years 2000 to 2022, using the resources from PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science.
Response Variability to Drug Testing in Two Models of Chemically Induced Colitis
Authors: Suau Roger , Garcia Anna , Bernal Carla , Llaves Mariona , Schiering Katharina , Jou-Ollé Eva , Pertegaz Alex , Garcia-Jaraquemada Arce , Bartolí Ramon , Lorén Violeta , Vergara Patri , Mañosa Míriam , Domènech Eugeni , Manyé Josep
Published: March 2023

The lack of knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of IBD is a challenge for the development of more effective and safer therapies. Although in vivo preclinical approaches are critical for drug testing, none of the existing models accurately reproduce human IBD. Factors that influence the intra-individual response to drugs have barely been described. With this in mind, our aim was to compare the anti-inflammatory efficacy of a new molecule (MTADV) to that of corticosteroids in TNBS and DSS-induced colitis mice of both sexes in order to clarify further the response mechanism involved and the variability between sexes. The drugs were administered preventively and therapeutically, and real-time bioluminescence was performed for the in vivo time-course colitis monitoring. Morphometric data were also collected, and colonic cytokines and acute plasma phase proteins were analyzed by qRT-PCR and ELISA, respectively—bioluminescence images correlated with inflammatory markers. In the TNBS model, dexamethasone worked better in females, while MTADV improved inflammation in males. In DSS-colitis, both therapies worked similarly. Based on the molecular profiles, interaction networks were constructed to pinpoint the drivers of therapeutic response that were highly dependent on the sex. In conclusion, our results suggest the importance of considering sex in IBD preclinical drug screening.
Biomolecule-Based Biomaterials and Their Application in Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Felgueiras Helena P.
Published: March 2023

The antibiotic crisis is a global concern [...]
Transcriptomic Analysis of Heat Stress Response in Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis with Improved Thermotolerance through Exogenous Glycine Betaine
Authors: Quan Jin , Li Xinyuan , Li Zewei , Wu Meifang , Zhu Biao , Hong Seung-Beom , Shi Jiang , Zhu Zhujun , Xu Liai , Zang Yunxiang
Published: March 2023

Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis) is sensitive to high temperature, which will cause the B. rapa to remain in a semi-dormancy state. Foliar spray of GB prior to heat stress was proven to enhance B. rapa thermotolerance. In order to understand the molecular mechanisms of GB-primed resistance or adaptation towards heat stress, we investigated the transcriptomes of GB-primed and non-primed heat-sensitive B. rapa ‘Beijing No. 3’ variety by RNA-Seq analysis. A total of 582 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from GB-primed plants exposed to heat stress relative to non-primed plants under heat stress and were assigned to 350 gene ontology (GO) pathways and 69 KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathways. The analysis of the KEGG enrichment pathways revealed that the most abundantly up-regulated pathways were protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum (14 genes), followed by plant hormone signal transduction (12 genes), ribosome (8 genes), MAPK signaling pathway (8 genes), homologous recombination (7 genes), nucleotide excision repair metabolism (5 genes), glutathione metabolism (4 genes), and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism (4 genes). The most abundantly down-regulated pathways were plant-pathogen interaction (14 genes), followed by phenylpropanoid biosynthesis (7 genes); arginine and proline metabolism (6 genes); cutin, suberine, and wax biosynthesis (4 genes); and tryptophan metabolism (4 genes). Several calcium sensing/transducing proteins, as well as transcription factors associated with abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), auxin, and cytokinin hormones were either up- or down-regulated in GB-primed B. rapa plants under heat stress. In particular, expression of the genes for antioxidant defense, heat shock response, and DNA damage repair systems were highly increased by GB priming. On the other hand, many of the genes involved in the calcium sensors and cell surface receptors involved in plant innate immunity and the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites were down-regulated in the absence of pathogen elicitors in GB-primed B. rapa seedlings. Overall GB priming activated ABA and SA signaling pathways but deactivated auxin and cytokinin signaling pathways while suppressing the innate immunity in B. rapa seedlings exposed to heat stress. The present study provides a preliminary understanding of the thermotolerance mechanisms in GB-primed plants and is of great importance in developing thermotolerant B. rapa cultivars by using the identified DEGs through genetic modification.
Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals Autophagy Networks in Rat Livers during the Development of NAFLD and Identifies Autophagy Hub Genes
Authors: Xie Jian , Chen Qiuyi , Zhao Yongxia , Luo Mingxia , Zeng Xin , Qin Lin , Tan Daopeng , He Yuqi
Published: March 2023

(1) Autophagy is an important biological process in cells and is closely associated with the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, this study aims to investigate the biological function of the autophagy hub genes, which could be used as a potential therapeutic target and diagnostic markers for NAFLD. (2) Male C57BL/6J mice were sacrificed after 16 and 38 weeks of a high-fat diet, serum biochemical indexes were detected, and liver lobules were collected for pathological observation and transcriptome sequencing. The R software was used to identify differentially expressed autophagy genes (DEGs) from the transcriptome sequencing data of mice fed with a normal diet for 38 weeks (ND38) and a high-fat diet for 38 weeks (HFD38). Gene ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed on the DEGs, a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of the DEGs was established using the STRING data website, and the results were visualized through Cytoscape. (3) After 16 weeks and 38 weeks of a high-fat diet, there was a significant increase in body weight, serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG) in mice, along with lipid accumulation in the liver, which was more severe at 38 weeks than at 16 weeks. The transcriptome data showed significant changes in the expression profile of autophagy genes in the livers of NAFLD mice following a long-term high-fat diet. Among the 31 differentially expressed autophagy-related genes, 13 were upregulated and 18 were downregulated. GO and KEGG pathway analysis revealed that these DEGs were primarily involved in autophagy, cholesterol transport, triglyceride metabolism, apoptosis, the FoxO signaling pathway, the p53 signaling pathway and the IL-17 signaling pathway. Four hub genes were identified by the PPI network analysis, of which Irs2, Pnpla2 and Plin2 were significantly downregulated, while Srebf2 was significantly upregulated by the 38-week high-fat diet. (4) The hub genes Irs2, Pnpla2, Srebf2 and Plin2 may serve as key therapeutic targets and early diagnostic markers in the progression of NAFLD.
Anthelmintic Drugs as Emerging Immune Modulators in Cancer
Authors: Stolfi Carmine , Pacifico Teresa , Luiz-Ferreira Anderson , Monteleone Giovanni , Laudisi Federica
Published: March 2023

Despite recent advances in treatment approaches, cancer is still one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Restoration of tumor immune surveillance represents a valid strategy to overcome the acquired resistance and cytotoxicity of conventional therapies in oncology and immunotherapeutic drugs, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and immunogenic cell death inducers, and has substantially progressed the treatment of several malignancies and improved the clinical management of advanced disease. Unfortunately, because of tumor-intrinsic and/or -extrinsic mechanisms for escaping immune surveillance, only a fraction of patients clinically respond to and benefit from cancer immunotherapy. Accumulating evidence derived from studies of drug repositioning, that is, the strategy to identify new uses for approved or investigational drugs that are outside the scope of the original medical indication, has suggested that some anthelmintic drugs, in addition to their antineoplastic effects, exert important immunomodulatory actions on specific subsets of immune cell and related pathways. In this review, we report and discuss current knowledge on the impact of anthelmintic drugs on host immunity and their potential implication in cancer immunotherapy.
Rod-like Cellulose Regenerated by Bottom-Up Assembly in Natural Rubber Latex and Its Reinforcement
Authors: Yuan Haoze , Li Peixing , Wang Xinyu , Zhao Hongying , Sun Jutao
Published: March 2023

As a renewable biomass material, nano-cellulose has been investigated as a reinforcing filler in rubber composites but has seen little success because of its strong inclination towards aggregating. Here, a bottom-up self-assembly approach was proposed by regenerating cellulose crystals from a mixture of cellulose solution and natural rubber (NR) latex. Different co-coagulants of both cellulose solution and natural rubber latex were added to break the dissolution equilibrium and in-situ regenerate cellulose in the NR matrix. The SEM images showed that the sizes and morphologies of regenerated cellulose (RC) varied greatly with the addition of different co-coagulants. Only when a 5 wt% acetic acid aqueous solution was used, the RC particles showed an ideal rod-like structure with small sizes of about 100 nm in diameter and 1.0 μm in length. The tensile test showed that rod-like RC (RRC)-endowed NR vulcanizates with pronounced reinforcement had a drastic upturn in stress after stretching to 200% strain. The results of XRD and the Mullins effect showed that this drastic upturn in stress was mainly attributed to the formation of rigid RRC-RRC networks during stretching instead of the strain-induced crystallization of NR. This bottom-up approach provided a simple way to ensure the effective utilization of cellulosic materials in the rubber industry.
Importance of Mitochondria in Cardiac Pathologies: Focus on Uncoupling Proteins and Monoamine Oxidases
Authors: Schulz Rainer , Schlüter Klaus-Dieter
Published: March 2023

On the one hand, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in the onset and progression of a wide array of diseases. On the other hand, these are a part of signaling pathways related to cell metabolism, growth and survival. While ROS are produced at various cellular sites, in cardiomyocytes the largest amount of ROS is generated by mitochondria. Apart from the electron transport chain and various other proteins, uncoupling protein (UCP) and monoamine oxidases (MAO) have been proposed to modify mitochondrial ROS formation. Here, we review the recent information on UCP and MAO in cardiac injuries induced by ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) as well as protection from I/R and heart failure secondary to I/R injury or pressure overload. The current data in the literature suggest that I/R will preferentially upregulate UCP2 in cardiac tissue but not UCP3. Studies addressing the consequences of such induction are currently inconclusive because the precise function of UCP2 in cardiac tissue is not well understood, and tissue- and species-specific aspects complicate the situation. In general, UCP2 may reduce oxidative stress by mild uncoupling and both UCP2 and UCP3 affect substrate utilization in cardiac tissue, thereby modifying post-ischemic remodeling. MAOs are important for the physiological regulation of substrate concentrations. Upon increased expression and or activity of MAOs, however, the increased production of ROS and reactive aldehydes contribute to cardiac alterations such as hypertrophy, inflammation, irreversible cardiomyocyte injury, and failure.
Uncovering the Underworld of Axial Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Del Vescovo Sergio , Venerito Vincenzo , Iannone Claudia , Lopalco Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

Axial spondyloarthritis (axial-SpA) is a multifactorial disease characterized by inflammation in sacroiliac joints and spine, bone reabsorption, and aberrant bone deposition, which may lead to ankylosis. Disease pathogenesis depends on genetic, immunological, mechanical, and bioenvironmental factors. HLA-B27 represents the most important genetic factor, although the disease may also develop in its absence. This MHC class I molecule has been deeply studied from a molecular point of view. Different theories, including the arthritogenic peptide, the unfolded protein response, and HLA-B27 homodimers formation, have been proposed to explain its role. From an immunological point of view, a complex interplay between the innate and adaptive immune system is involved in disease onset. Unlike other systemic autoimmune diseases, the innate immune system in axial-SpA has a crucial role marked by abnormal activity of innate immune cells, including γδ T cells, type 3 innate lymphoid cells, neutrophils, and mucosal-associated invariant T cells, at tissue-specific sites prone to the disease. On the other hand, a T cell adaptive response would seem involved in axial-SpA pathogenesis as emphasized by several studies focusing on TCR low clonal heterogeneity and clonal expansions as well as an interindividual sharing of CD4/8 T cell receptors. As a result of this immune dysregulation, several proinflammatory molecules are produced following the activation of tangled intracellular pathways involved in pathomechanisms of axial-SpA. This review aims to expand the current understanding of axial-SpA pathogenesis, pointing out novel molecular mechanisms leading to disease development and to further investigate potential therapeutic targets.
Molecular Mechanisms of the Cytotoxic Effect of Recombinant Selenoprotein SELENOM on Human Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Rogachev Vladimir V. , Goltyaev Michael V. , Varlamova Elena G. , Turovsky Egor A.
Published: March 2023

Currently, selenobiology is an actively developing area, primarily due to the study of the role of the trace element selenium and its organic and inorganic compounds in the regulation of vital processes occurring in the cell. In particular, the study of the functions of selenium nanoparticles has gained great popularity in recent years. However, a weak point in this area of biology is the study of the functions of selenoproteins, of which 25 have been identified in mammals to date. First of all, this is due to the difficulties in obtaining native forms of selenoproteins in preparative quantities, due to the fact that the amino acid selenocysteine is encoded by one of the three stop codons of the TGA universal genetic code. A complex system for recognizing a given codon as a selenocysteine codon has a number of features in pro- and eukaryotes. The selenoprotein SELENOM is one of the least studied mammalian selenoproteins. In this work, for the first time, studies of the molecular mechanisms of regulation of the cytotoxic effect of this protein on human glioblastoma cells were carried out. The cytotoxicity of cancer cells in our experiments was already observed when cells were exposed to 50 μg of SELENOM and increased in proportion to the increase in protein concentration. Apoptosis of human glioblastoma cells was accompanied by an increase in mRNA expression of a number of pro-apoptotic genes, an increase in endoplasmic reticulum stress, and activation of the UPR IRE1α signaling pathway. The results obtained also demonstrate a dose-dependent depletion of the Ca2+ pool under the action of SELENOM, which proves the important role of this protein in the regulation of calcium homeostasis in the cell.
Reduced High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Is an Independent Determinant of Altered Bone Quality in Women with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Dule Sara , Barchetta Ilaria , Cimini Flavia Agata , Passarella Giulia , Dellanno Arianna , Filardi Tiziana , Venditti Vittorio , Bleve Enrico , Bailetti Diego , Romagnoli Elisabetta , Morano Susanna , Baroni Marco Giorgio , Cavallo Maria Gisella
Published: March 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased fracture risk. Our study aimed to explore differences in bone alterations between T2DM women and controls and to assess clinical predictors of bone impairment in T2DM. For this observational case control study, we recruited 126 T2DM female patients and 117 non-diabetic, age- and BMI-comparable women, who underwent clinical examination, routine biochemistry and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans for bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular bone score (TBS) assessment-derived indexes. These were correlated to metabolic parameters, such as glycemic control and lipid profile, by bivariate analyses, and significant variables were entered in multivariate adjusted models to detect independent determinants of altered bone status in diabetes. The T2DM patients were less represented in the normal bone category compared with controls (5% vs. 12%; p = 0.04); T2DM was associated with low TBS (OR: 2.47, C.I. 95%: 1.19–5.16, p = 0.016) in a regression model adjusted for age, menopausal status and BMI. In women with T2DM, TBS directly correlated with plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) (p = 0.029) and vitamin D (p = 0.017) levels. An inverse association was observed with menopausal status (p < 0.001), metabolic syndrome (p = 0.014), BMI (p = 0.005), and waist circumference (p < 0.001). In the multivariate regression analysis, lower HDL-c represented the main predictor of altered bone quality in T2DM, regardless of age, menopausal status, BMI, waist circumference, statin treatment, physical activity, and vitamin D (p = 0.029; R2 = 0.47), which likely underlies common pathways between metabolic disease and bone health in diabetes.
The Oligomerization Domains of the APC Protein Mediate Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation That Is Phosphorylation Controlled
Authors: Bressler Shachar G. , Mitrany Amit , Wenger Alon , Näthke Inke , Friedler Assaf
Published: March 2023

One of the most important properties of intrinsically disordered proteins is their ability to undergo liquid-liquid phase separation and form droplets. The Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC) protein is an IDP that plays a key role in Wnt signaling and mutations in Apc initiate cancer. APC forms droplets via its 20R domains and self-association domain (ASAD) and in the context of Axin. However, the mechanism involved is unknown. Here, we used peptides to study the molecular mechanism and regulation of APC droplet formation. We found that a peptide derived from the ASAD of APC-formed droplets. Peptide array screening showed that the ASAD bound other APC peptides corresponding to the 20R3 and 20R5 domains. We discovered that the 20R3/5 peptides also formed droplets by themselves and mapped specific residues within 20R3/5 that are necessary for droplet formation. When incubated together, the ASAD and 20R3/5 did not form droplets. Thus, the interaction of the ASAD with 20R3 and 20R5 may regulate the droplet formation as a means of regulating different cellular functions. Phosphorylation of 20R3 or 20R5 at specific residues prevented droplet formation of 20R3/5. Our results reveal that phosphorylation and the ability to undergo liquid-liquid phase separation, which are both important properties of intrinsically disordered proteins, are related to each other in APC. Phosphorylation inhibited the liquid-liquid phase separation of APC, acting as an ‘on-off’ switch for droplet formation. Phosphorylation may thus be a common mechanism regulating LLPS in intrinsically disordered proteins.
The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in Men with Schizophrenia
Authors: Matuszewska Agnieszka , Kowalski Krzysztof , Jawień Paulina , Tomkalski Tomasz , Gaweł-Dąbrowska Dagmara , Merwid-Ląd Anna , Szeląg Ewa , Błaszczak Karolina , Wiatrak Benita , Danielewski Maciej , Piasny Janusz , Szeląg Adam
Published: March 2023

Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder with a chronic, progressive course. The etiology of this condition is linked to the interactions of multiple genes and environmental factors. The earlier age of onset of schizophrenia, the higher frequency of negative symptoms in the clinical presentation, and the poorer response to antipsychotic treatment in men compared to women suggests the involvement of sex hormones in these processes. This article aims to draw attention to the possible relationship between testosterone and some clinical features in male schizophrenic patients and discuss the complex nature of these phenomena based on data from the literature. PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched to select the papers without limiting the time of the publications. Hormone levels in the body are regulated by many organs and systems, and take place through the neuroendocrine, hormonal, neural, and metabolic pathways. Sex hormones play an important role in the development and function of the organism. Besides their impact on secondary sex characteristics, they influence brain development and function, mood, and cognition. In men with schizophrenia, altered testosterone levels were noted. In many cases, evidence from available single studies gave contradictory results. However, it seems that the testosterone level in men affected by schizophrenia may differ depending on the phase of the disease, types of clinical symptoms, and administered therapy. The etiology of testosterone level disturbances may be very complex. Besides the impact of the illness (schizophrenia), stress, and antipsychotic drug-induced hyperprolactinemia, testosterone levels may be influenced by, i.a., obesity, substances of abuse (e.g., ethanol), or liver damage.
The Distribution Pattern and Species Richness of Scorpionflies (Mecoptera: Panorpidae)
Authors: Su Jian , Liu Wanjing , Hu Fangcheng , Miao Panpan , Xing Lianxi , Hua Yuan
Published: March 2023

The uneven distribution of species diversity on earth, with mountainous regions housing half of the high species diversity areas, makes mountain ecosystems vital to biodiversity conservation. The Panorpidae are ecological indicators, ideal for studying the impact of climate change on potential insect distribution. This study examines the impact of environmental factors on the distribution of the Panorpidae and analyzes how their distribution has changed over three historical periods, the Last Interglacial (LIG), the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), and Current. The MaxEnt model is used to predict the potential distribution area of Panorpidae based on global distribution data. The results show that precipitation and elevation are the primary factors affecting species richness, and the suitable areas for Panorpidae are distributed in southeastern North America, Europe, and southeastern Asia. Throughout the three historical periods, there was an initial increase followed by a decrease in the area of suitable habitats. During the LGM period, there was a maximum range of suitable habitats for cool-adapted insects, such as scorpionflies. Under the scenarios of global warming, the suitable habitats for Panorpidae would shrink, posing a challenge to the conservation of biodiversity. The study provides insights into the potential geographic range of Panorpidae and helps understand the impact of climate change on their distribution.
Host-Plant Selection Behavior of Ophraella communa, a Biocontrol Agent of the Invasive Common Ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia
Authors: Jin Jisu , Zhao Meiting , Zhou Zhongshi , Wang Ren , Guo Jianying , Wan Fanghao
Published: March 2023

Understanding the host-selection behavior of herbivorous insects is important to clarify their efficacy and safety as biocontrol agents. To explore the host-plant selection of the beetle Ophraella communa, a natural enemy of the alien invasive common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), we conducted a series of outdoor choice experiments in cages in 2010 and in open fields in 2010 and 2011 to determine the preference of O. communa for A. artemisiifolia and three non-target plant species: sunflower (Helianthus annuus), cocklebur (Xanthium sibiricum), and giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida). In the outdoor cage experiment, no eggs were found on sunflowers, and O. communa adults rapidly moved from sunflowers to the other three plant species. Instead, adults preferred to lay eggs on A. artemisiifolia, followed by X. sibiricum and A. trifida, although very few eggs were observed on A. trifida. Observing the host-plant selection of O. communa in an open sunflower field, we found that O. communa adults always chose A. artemisiifolia for feeding and egg laying. Although several adults (<0.02 adults/plant) stayed on H. annuus, no feeding or oviposition were observed, and adults quickly transferred to A. artemisiifolia. In 2010 and 2011, 3 egg masses (96 eggs) were observed on sunflowers, but they failed to hatch or develop into adults. In addition, some O. communa adults crossed the barrier formed by H. annuus to feed and oviposit on A. artemisiifolia planted in the periphery, and persisted in patches of different densities. Additionally, only 10% of O. communa adults chose to feed and oviposit on the X. sibiricum barrier. These findings suggest that O. communa poses no threat to the biosafety of H. anunuus and A. trifida and exhibits a robust dispersal capacity to find and feed on A. artemisiifolia. However, X. sibiricum has the potential to be an alternative host plant for O. communa.
Effect of Ageing in the Mating Behaviour Sequence of Osmia cornuta Latr. (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae)
Authors: Felicioli Antonio , Sagona Simona , Coppola Francesca , Boni Chiara Benedetta , Pinzauti Mauro
Published: March 2023

Osmia cornuta Latr. is largely managed worldwide for the pollination of orchard crops, playing a key role in the maintenance of healthy ecosystems and ensuring economic and social benefits for human society. The management techniques of this pollinator include the possibility of delaying emergence from cocoons after diapause, allowing for the pollination of later-blooming fruit crops. In this study, the mating behaviour of bees emerging at the natural time (Right Emergence Insects) and of late-emerged bees (Aged Emergence Insects) was described in order to test if a delay in emergence could affect the mating sequence of O. cornuta. Markov analysis of the mating behaviour revealed the occurrence of antenna motion episodes that were repeated in a stereotyped manner at regular intervals during the mating sequence of both Right Emergence Insects and in Aged Emergence Insects. Pouncing, rhythmic and continuous emission of sound, motion of antennae, stretching of the abdomen, short and long copulations, scratching, inactivity, and self-grooming were identified as the stereotyped behavioural units of a behavioural sequence. The occurrence of short copulations, the frequency of which increased with the age of bees, could lead to a failure in the reproduction of the mason bee.
Correction: Kohsaka et al. Risk–Benefit Balance of Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone Inhibitor Cessation in Heart Failure Patients with Hyperkalemia. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 5828
Authors: Kohsaka Shun , Okami Suguru , Morita Naru , Yajima Toshitaka
Published: March 2023

In the original publication [...]
Hypertensive Heart Disease: A Narrative Review Series—Part 1: Pathophysiology and Microstructural Changes
Authors: Nemtsova Valeriya , Vischer Annina , Burkard Thilo
Published: March 2023

Sustained hypertension causes structural, functional, and neurohumoral abnormalities in the heart, a disease commonly termed hypertensive heart disease (HHD). Modern concepts of HHD, including processes of remodeling leading to the development of various LVH patterns, HF patterns accompanied by micro- and macrovasculopathies, and heart rhythm and conduction disturbances, are missing in the available definitions, despite copious studies being devoted to the roles of myocardial and vascular fibrosis, and neurohumoral and sympathetic regulation, in HHD development and progression. No comprehensive and generally accepted universal definition and classification of HHD is available to date, implementing diagnostic criteria that incorporate all the possible changes and adaptions to the heart. The aim of this review series is to summarize the relevant literature and data, leading to a proposal of a definition and classification of HHD. This first article reviews the processes of initial myocardial remodeling, and myocardial and vascular fibrosis, occurring in HHD. We discuss important pathophysiological and microstructural changes, the different patterns of fibrosis, and the biomarkers and imaging used to detect fibrosis in HHD. Furthermore, we review the possible methods of targeting myocardial fibrosis in HHD, and highlight areas for further research.
Research Advances on Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Promoting the Reconstruction of Alveolar Bone through RANKL/RANK/OPG Pathway
Authors: Huang Xia , Li Yuxiao , Liao Hui , Luo Xin , Zhao Yueping , Huang Yadong , Zhou Zhiying , Xiang Qi
Published: March 2023

Periodontal bone tissue defects and bone shortages are the most familiar and troublesome clinical problems in the oral cavity. Stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (SC-EVs) have biological properties similar to their sources, and they could be a promising acellular therapy to assist with periodontal osteogenesis. In the course of alveolar bone remodeling, the RANKL/RANK/OPG signaling pathway is an important pathway involved in bone metabolism. This article summarizes the experimental studies of SC-EVs applied for the therapy of periodontal osteogenesis recently and explores the role of the RANKL/RANK/OPG pathway in their mechanism of action. Their unique patterns will open a new field of vision for people, and they will help to advance a possible future clinical treatment.
Towards Land Consumption Neutrality and Natural Capital Enhancement at Urban Landscape Scale
Authors: Valente Donatella , Lovello Erica Maria , Giannuzzi Cosimo Gaspare , Scardia Scardia Angela Maria , Marinelli Maria Victoria , Petrosillo Irene
Published: March 2023

Among the UNCCD SDGs 2030, there is the recognition that land consumption can strongly affect the provision of ecosystem services. From the perspective of land degradation neutrality, urban level is the right scale when planning actions against land consumption. The aims of this research are: (1) to assess land consumption at urban landscape scale and its effects on natural capital flow provision; and (2) to identify sustainable strategic planning choices for land consumption mitigation and natural capital enhancement. We propose and test an approach based on multi-temporal landscape spatial analysis (land use/land cover map, land consumption map, and landscape metrics) and ecosystem services’ flow assessment for the identification of areas at risk of loss of natural capital flow. The results have shown that from 2006 to 2019, land consumption has increased with a consequent decrease of natural capital flow. LULC dynamics has been analyzed in terms of landscape risk to lose natural capital flow, highlighting that the management of Galatone urban landscape is still far from land consumption neutrality. Landscape metrics have allowed the analysis of the aggregation among land consumption areas. The mitigation of land consumption should be based on the identification of suitable nature-based solutions towards the balance between past land consumption and future land recovery.
The Evolution of the Waterfront Utilization and Sustainable Development of the Container Ports in the Yangtze River: A Case Study of the Yangtze River Delta
Authors: Liu Weichen , Chen Weixiao , Cao Youhui
Published: March 2023

Waterfront resources are an important support system for the social and economic development within the region along the Yangtze River. Container ports are an important component of the Yangtze River port system, as well as for the growth point of waterfront utilization. Based on the summary of remote sensing images and relevant data, this paper calculates the waterfront utilization of the container ports along the Yangtze River in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), analyzes the waterfront organization pattern and change characteristics, and puts forward the enlightenment and countermeasures for the sustainable development of the port waterfronts. Extending the study of port resources from coastal areas to inland areas is an academic contribution of this paper. At the same time, it has practical significance for the high-quality development of port and shipping and the development and protection of land resources along the Yangtze River. In the YRD, the waterfront utilization of container ports has increased along the Yangtze River, showing a decrease from downstream to upwards, and it has formed dense zones attached to the central cities and major manufacturing bases. The ports with higher length of waterfront are mostly located in the shipping central cities and the Yangtze River estuary. The development direction of container ports is large-scale and specialized. The utilization of the container port waterfront is approaching the periphery of the city and areas with convenient transportation. The utilization of container port shorelines will be close to the periphery of the city and convenient transportation areas. The container port waterfronts occupy the ecological reserve, and the conflicts are expanding with the development of shipping, mainly distributed in the Yangtze River estuary. Based on the empirical analysis, this paper puts forward four enlightenments. First, the exploitation and utilization of the port waterfront has experienced multiple stages of “exploitation—conflict—mitigation”. With the transformation of productive waterfront utilization, the pattern of sustainable development along the Yangtze River has changed. Secondly, the conflict between waterfront utilization and protection is inevitable. Additionally, it is necessary to face up to the temporary rapid rise of encroachment on the reserve. Third, through the horizontal coordination of the port system along the river, the original focus on the hub cities will be transferred to the comprehensive consideration of the port cities in the whole region, and the waterfront load of different types of container ports can be balanced. Fourth, the Yangtze River Delta integration mechanism can solve the barriers between higher and lower levels or between different departments and cities.
Neural Stem Cells as Potential Glioblastoma Cells of Origin
Authors: Loras Alba , Gonzalez-Bonet Luis , Gutierrez-Arroyo Julia , Martinez-Cadenas Conrado , Marques-Torrejon Maria
Published: March 2023

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most malignant brain tumor in adults and it remains incurable. These tumors are very heterogeneous, resistant to cytotoxic therapies, and they show high rates of invasiveness. Therefore, patients face poor prognosis, and the survival rates remain very low. Previous research states that GBM contains a cell population with stem cell characteristics called glioma stem cells (GSCs). These cells are able to self-renew and regenerate the tumor and, therefore, they are partly responsible for the observed resistance to therapies and tumor recurrence. Recent data indicate that neural stem cells (NSCs) in the subventricular zone (SVZ) are the cells of origin of GBM, that is, the cell type acquiring the initial tumorigenic mutation. The involvement of SVZ-NSCs is also associated with GBM progression and recurrence. Identifying the cellular origin of GBM is important for the development of early detection techniques and the discovery of early disease markers. In this review, we analyze the SVZ-NSC population as a potential GBM cell of origin, and its potential role for GBM therapies.
Extending Validity of the Bacterial Cell Cycle Model through Thymine Limitation: A Personal View
Authors: Zaritsky Arieh
Published: March 2023

The contemporary view of bacterial physiology was established in 1958 at the “Copenhagen School”, culminating a decade later in a detailed description of the cell cycle based on four parameters. This model has been subsequently supported by numerous studies, nicknamed BCD (The Bacterial Cell-Cycle Dogma). It readily explains, quantitatively, the coupling between chromosome replication and cell division, size and DNA content. An important derivative is the number of replication positions n, the ratio between the time C to complete a round of replication and the cell mass doubling time τ; the former is constant at any temperature and the latter is determined by the medium composition. Changes in cell width W are highly correlated to n through the equation for so-called nucleoid complexity NC (=(2n − 1)/(ln2 × n)), the amount of DNA per terC (i.e., chromosome) in genome equivalents. The narrow range of potential n can be dramatically extended using the method of thymine limitation of thymine-requiring mutants, which allows a more rigorous testing of the hypothesis that the nucleoid structure is the primary source of the signal that determines W during cell division. How this putative signal is relayed from the nucleoid to the divisome is still highly enigmatic. The aim of this Opinion article is to suggest the possibility of a new signaling function for nucleoid DNA.
Study on Preparation and Performance of CO2 Foamed Concrete for Heat Insulation and Carbon Storage
Authors: Ta Xupeng , Zhang Yuan , Wan Zhijun , Shi Peng , Zhou Jiale
Published: March 2023

Environmental problems caused by large amounts of CO2 generated by coal–electricity integration bases have raised concerns. To solve these problems, this study develops a CO2 foam concrete (CFC) material with both heat insulation and carbon fixation characteristics to realize CO2 in situ storage and utilization. In this study, a Portland-cement-based CO2 foam concrete (PC-CFC) with good thermal insulation performance and carbon fixation ability is prepared using carbonation pretreatment cement and a physical foaming method. The effects of CO2 on the compressive strength, thermal insulation, and carbon fixation properties of PC-CFC are studied. The internal relationship between the compressive strength, thermal insulation, and carbon fixation performance of PC-CFC is analyzed, and the feasibility of PC-CFC as a filling material to realize the in situ mineralization and storage of CO2 in the coal–electricity integration base is discussed. The experimental results show that the compressive strength of PC-CFC is significantly improved by CO2 curing. However, CO2 in the PC-CFC pores may weaken the strength of the pore structure, and the compressive strength decreases by 3.62% for each 1% increase in PC-CFC porosity. Using CO2 as a foaming gas and the physical foaming method to prepare CFC can achieve improved thermal insulation performance. The thermal conductivity of PC-CFC is 0.0512–0.0905 W/(m·K). In addition, the compressive strength of PC-CFC increases by 19.08% when the thermal conductivity of PC-CFC increases by 1%. On the premise of meeting the thermal insulation requirements, PC-CFC can achieve improved compressive strength. The carbon sequestration rate of the PC-CFC skeleton is 6.1–8.57%, and the carbon storage capacity of PC-CFC pores is 1.36–2.60 kg/ton, which has obvious carbon sequestration potential; however, the preparation process and parameters of PC-CFC still require further improvement. The research results show that PC-CFC has great potential for engineering applications and is of great significance for realizing carbon reduction at the coal–electricity integration base.
Surface Flame-Retardant Systems of Rigid Polyurethane Foams: An Overview
Authors: Jiang Yuping , Yang Hongyu , Lin Xiang , Xiang Simeng , Feng Xiaming , Wan Chaojun
Published: March 2023

Rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) is one of the best thermal insulation materials available, but its flammability makes it a potential fire hazard. Due to its porous nature, the large specific surface area is the key factor for easy ignition and rapid fires spread when exposed to heat sources. The burning process of RPUF mainly takes place on the surface. Therefore, if a flame-retardant coating can be formed on the surface of RPUF, it can effectively reduce or stop the flame propagation on the surface of RPUF, further improving the fire safety. Compared with the bulk flame retardant of RPUF, the flame-retardant coating on its surface has a higher efficiency in improving fire safety. This paper aims to review the preparations, properties, and working mechanisms of RPUF surface flame-retardant systems. Flame-retardant coatings are divided into non-intumescent flame-retardant coatings (NIFRCs) and intumescent flame-retardant coatings (IFRCs), depending on whether the flame-retardant coating expands when heated. After discussion, the development trends for surface flame-retardant systems are considered to be high-performance, biological, biomimetic, multifunctional flame-retardant coatings.