bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antigenic and Structural Properties of the Lipopolysaccharide of the Uropathogenic Proteus mirabilis Dm55 Strain Classified to a New O85 Proteus Serogroup
Authors: Palusiak Agata , Turska-Szewczuk Anna , Drzewiecka Dominika
Published: November 2023

The aim of the study was the serological and structural characterization of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O antigen from P. mirabilis Dm55 coming from the urine of a patient from Lodz. The Dm55 LPS was recognized in ELISA only by the O54 antiserum, suggesting a serological distinction of the Dm55 O antigen from all the 84 Proteus LPS serotypes described. The obtained polyclonal rabbit serum against P. mirabilis Dm55 reacted in ELISA and Western blotting with a few LPSs (including O54), but the reactions were weaker than those observed in the homologous system. The LPS of P. mirabilis Dm55 was subjected to mild acid hydrolysis, and the obtained high-molecular-mass O polysaccharide was chemically studied using sugar and methylation analyses, mass spectrometry, and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, including 1H,1H NOESY, and 1H,13C HMBC experiments. The Dm55 O unit is a branched three-saccharide, and its linear fragment contains α-GalpNAc and β-Galp, whereas α-GlcpNAc occupies a terminal position. The Dm55 OPS shares a disaccharide epitope with the Proteus O54 antigen. Due to the structural differences of the studied O antigen from the other described Proteus O polysaccharides, we propose to classify the P. mirabilis Dm55 strain to a new Proteus O85 serogroup.
Moringa oleifera Leaves Protein Enhances Intestinal Permeability by Activating TLR4 Upstream Signaling and Disrupting Tight Junctions
Authors: Liu Xiaoxue , Xi Chuyu , Li Wenjie , Su Hairan , Yang Hao , Bai Zhongbin , Tian Yang , Song Shuang
Published: November 2023

Changes in intestinal mucosal barrier permeability lead to antigen sensitization and mast cell-mediated allergic reactions, which are considered to play important roles in the occurrence and development of food allergies. It has been suggested that protein causes increased intestinal permeability via mast cell degranulation, and we investigated the effect of camellia Moringa oleifera leaves protein on intestinal permeability and explored its role in the development of food allergies. The current study investigated the effect of M. oleifera leaves protein on intestinal permeability through assessments of transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and transmembrane transport of FITC-dextran by Caco-2 cells. The expression levels of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), IL-8, Occludin, Claudin-1, and perimembrane protein family (ZO-1) were detected by real-time PCR and Western blotting. The effect of M. oleifera leaves protein on intestinal permeability was verified in mice in vivo. The serum fluorescence intensity was measured using the FITC-dextran tracer method, and the expression of tight junction proteins was detected using Western blotting. The results showed that M. oleifera leaves protein widened the gaps between Caco-2 cells, reduced transmembrane resistance, and increased permeability. This protein also reduced the mRNA and protein levels of Occludin, Claudin-1, and ZO-1. Animal experiments showed that intestinal permeability was increased, and that the expression of the tight junction proteins Occludin and Claudin-1 were downregulated in mice. This study shows that M. oleifera leaves protein has components that increase intestinal permeability, decrease tight junction protein expression, promote transmembrane transport in Caco-2 cells, and increase intestinal permeability in experimental animals. The finding that M. oleifera leaves active protein increases intestinal permeability suggests that this protein may be valuable for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of M. oleifera leaves allergy.
Ephexin3/ARHGEF5 Together with Cell Migration Signaling Partners within the Tumor Microenvironment Define Prognostic Transcriptional Signatures in Multiple Cancer Types
Authors: Juan-Guadarrama Dante Gustavo , Beltrán-Navarro Yarely Mabell , Reyes-Cruz Guadalupe , Vázquez-Prado José
Published: November 2023

Cancer cell migration involves a repertoire of signaling proteins that lead cytoskeleton reorganization as a critical step in metastatic dissemination. RhoGEFs are multidomain effectors that integrate signaling inputs to activate the molecular switches that orchestrate actin cytoskeleton reorganization. Ephexins, a group of five RhoGEFs, play oncogenic roles in invasive and metastatic cancer, leading to a mechanistic hypothesis about their function as signaling nodes assembling functional complexes that guide cancer cell migration. To identify clinically significant Ephexin signaling partners, we applied three systematic data mining strategies, based on the screening of essential Ephexins in multiple cancer cell lines and the identification of coexpressed signaling partners in the TCGA cancer patient datasets. Based on the domain architecture of encoded proteins and gene ontology criteria, we selected Ephexin signaling partners with a role in cytoskeletal reorganization and cell migration. We focused on Ephexin3/ARHGEF5, identified as an essential gene in multiple cancer cell types. Based on significant coexpression data and coessentiality, the signaling repertoire that accompanies Ephexin3 corresponded to three groups: pan-cancer, cancer-specific and coessential. To further select the Ephexin3 signaling partners likely to be relevant in clinical settings, we first identified those whose high expression was statistical linked to shorter patient survival. The resulting Ephexin3 transcriptional signatures represent significant accumulated risk, predictive of shorter survival, in 17 cancer types, including PAAD, LUAD, LGG, OSC, AML, KIRC, THYM, BLCA, LIHC and UCEC. The signaling landscape that accompanies Ephexin3 in various cancer types included the tyrosine kinase receptor MET and the tyrosine phosphatase receptor PTPRF, the serine/threonine kinases MARK2 and PAK6, the Rho GTPases RHOD, RHOF and RAC1, and the cytoskeletal regulator DIAHP1. Our findings set the basis to further explore the role of Ephexin3/ARHGEF5 as an essential effector and signaling hub in cancer cell migration.
Role of CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors in Vascular Responses and Vascular Remodeling of the Aorta in Female Mice
Authors: Bányai Bálint , Vass Zsolt , Kiss Stella , Balogh Anikó , Brandhuber Dóra , Karvaly Gellért , Kovács Krisztián , Nádasy György L. , Hunyady László , Dörnyei Gabriella , Horváth Eszter Mária , Szekeres Mária
Published: November 2023

Both the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and estrogens have significant roles in cardiovascular control processes. Cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1Rs) mediate acute vasodilator and hypotensive effects, although their role in cardiovascular pathological conditions is still controversial. Estrogens exert cardiovascular protection in females. We aimed to study the impact of ECS on vascular functions. Experiments were performed on CB1R knockout (CB1R KO) and wild-type (WT) female mice. Plasma estrogen metabolite levels were determined. Abdominal aortas were isolated for myography and histology. Vascular effects of phenylephrine (Phe), angiotensin II, acetylcholine (Ach) and estradiol (E2) were obtained and repeated with inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase (NOS, Nω-nitro-L-arginine) and of cyclooxygenase (COX, indomethacin). Histological stainings (hematoxylin-eosin, resorcin-fuchsin) and immunostainings for endothelial NOS (eNOS), COX-2, estrogen receptors (ER-α, ER-β) were performed. Conjugated E2 levels were higher in CB1R KO compared to WT mice. Vasorelaxation responses to Ach and E2 were increased in CB1R KO mice, attenuated by NOS-inhibition. COX-inhibition decreased Phe-contractions, while it increased Ach-relaxation in the WT group but not in the CB1R KO. Effects of indomethacin on E2-relaxation in CB1R KO became opposite to that observed in WT. Histology revealed lower intima/media thickness and COX-2 density, higher eNOS and lower ER-β density in CB1R KO than in WT mice. CB1R KO female mice are characterized by increased vasorelaxation associated with increased utilization of endothelial NO and a decreased impact of constrictor prostanoids. Our results indicate that the absence or inhibition of CB1Rs may have beneficial vascular effects.
Evaluation of Local Retinal Function in Light-Damaged Rats Using Multifocal Electroretinograms and Multifocal Visual Evoked Potentials
Authors: Takita Yuya , Sugano Eriko , Kitabayashi Kazuya , Tabata Kitako , Saito Akito , Yokoyama Takanori , Onoguchi Reina , Fukuda Tomokazu , Ozaki Taku , Bai Lanlan , Tomita Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Electroretinograms (ERGs) are often used to evaluate retinal function. However, assessing local retinal function can be challenging; therefore, photopic and scotopic ERGs are used to record whole-retinal function. This study evaluated focal retinal function in rats exposed to continuous light using a multifocal ERG (mfERG) system. The rats were exposed to 1000 lux of fluorescent light for 24 h to induce photoreceptor degeneration. After light exposure, the rats were reared under cyclic light conditions (12 h: 5 lux, 12 h: dark). Photopic and multifocal ERGs and single-flash and multifocal visual evoked potentials (mfVEPs) were recorded 7 days after light exposure. Fourteen days following light exposure, paraffin-embedded sections were prepared from the eyes for histological evaluation. The ERG and VEP responses dramatically decreased after 24 h of light exposure, and retinal area-dependent decreases were observed in mfERGs and mfVEPs. Histological assessment revealed severe damage to the superior retina and less damage to the inferior retina. Considering the recorded visual angles of mfERGs and mfVEPs, the degenerated area shown on the histological examinations correlates well with the responses from multifocal recordings.
STXBP6 Gene Mutation: A New Form of SNAREopathy Leads to Developmental Epileptic Encephalopathy
Authors: Vinci Mirella , Costanza Carola , Galati Rando Rosanna , Treccarichi Simone , Saccone Salvatore , Carotenuto Marco , Roccella Michele , Calì Francesco , Elia Maurizio , Vetri Luigi
Published: November 2023

Syntaxin-binding protein 6 (STXBP6), also known as amysin, is an essential component of the SNAP receptor (SNARE) complex and plays a crucial role in neuronal vesicle trafficking. Mutations in genes encoding SNARE proteins are often associated with a broad spectrum of neurological conditions defined as “SNAREopathies”, including epilepsy, intellectual disability, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders. The present whole exome sequencing (WES) study describes, for the first time, the occurrence of developmental epileptic encephalopathy and autism spectrum disorders as a result of a de novo deletion within the STXBP6 gene. The truncated protein in the STXBP6 gene leading to a premature stop codon could negatively modulate the synaptic vesicles’ exocytosis. Our research aimed to elucidate a plausible, robust correlation between STXBP6 gene deletion and the manifestation of developmental epileptic encephalopathy.
Maternal Exercise Prior to and during Gestation Induces Sex-Specific Alterations in the Mouse Placenta
Authors: Ruebel Meghan L. , Borengasser Sarah J. , Zhong Ying , Kang Ping , Faske Jennifer , Shankar Kartik
Published: November 2023

While exercise (EX) during pregnancy is beneficial for both mother and child, little is known about the mechanisms by which maternal exercise mediates changes in utero. Six-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups: with (exercise, EX; N = 7) or without (sedentary, SED; N = 8) access to voluntary running wheels. EX was provided via 24 h access to wheels for 10 weeks prior to conception until late pregnancy (18.5 days post coitum). Sex-stratified placentas and fetal livers were collected. Microarray analysis of SED and EX placentas revealed that EX affected gene transcript expression of 283 and 661 transcripts in male and female placentas, respectively (±1.4-fold, p < 0.05). Gene Set Enrichment and Ingenuity Pathway Analyses of male placentas showed that EX led to inhibition of signaling pathways, biological functions, and down-regulation of transcripts related to lipid and steroid metabolism, while EX in female placentas led to activation of pathways, biological functions, and gene expression related to muscle growth, brain, vascular development, and growth factors. Overall, our results suggest that the effects of maternal EX on the placenta and presumably on the offspring are sexually dimorphic.
The Neuroprotective Effects of Dendropanax morbifera Water Extract on Scopolamine-Induced Memory Impairment in Mice
Authors: Kim Sung Bae , Ryu Hyun Yeoul , Nam Woo , Lee So Min , Jang Mi Ran , Kwak Youn Gil , Kang Gyoo Il , Song Kyung Seok , Lee Jae Won
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of Dendropanax morbifera leaves and stems (DMLS) water extract on scopolamine (SCO)-induced memory impairment in mice. First, we conducted experiments to determine the protective effect of DMLS on neuronal cells. Treatment with DMLS showed a significant protective effect against neurotoxicity induced by Aβ(25–35) or H2O2. After confirming the neuroprotective effects of DMLS, we conducted animal studies. We administered DMLS orally at concentrations of 125, 250, and 375 mg/kg for 3 weeks. In the Y-maze test, SCO decreased spontaneous alternation, but treatment with DMLS or donepezil increased spontaneous alternation. In the Morris water-maze test, the SCO-treated group showed increased platform reach time and decreased swim time on the target platform. The passive avoidance task found that DMLS ingestion increased the recognition index in short-term memory. Furthermore, memory impairment induced by SCO reduced the ability to recognize novel objects. In the Novel Object Recognition test, recognition improved with DMLS or donepezil treatment. In the mouse brain, except for the cerebellum, acetylcholinesterase activity increased in the SCO group and decreased in the DMLS and donepezil groups. We measured catalase and malondialdehyde, which are indicators of antioxidant effectiveness, and found that oxidative stress increased with SCO but was mitigated by DMLS or donepezil treatment. Thus, our findings suggest that ingestion of DMLS restored memory impairment by protecting neuronal cells from Aβ(25–35) or H2O2-induced neurotoxicity, and by reducing oxidative stress.
Cyanide Removal by ZnTiO3/TiO2/H2O2/UVB System: A Theoretical-Experimental Approach
Authors: Jaramillo-Fierro Ximena , Ramón John , Valarezo Eduardo
Published: November 2023

Cyanide is a highly toxic substance present in wastewater from various industries. This study investigates the removal of cyanide species (CS) from aqueous solutions using the ZnTiO3/TiO2/H2O2/UVB system. ZnTiO3/TiO2 nanoparticles synthesized by the sol-gel method were characterized by powder X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The adsorption capacity of nanoparticles was tested by varying the pH of the solution, adsorbent concentration, and contact time. The adsorption of CS on ZnTiO3 and TiO2 surfaces was verified by Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. Photocatalytic experiments were achieved under UVB irradiation (λ = 310 nm). The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the CS removal efficiency. The detoxification effect was evaluated by acute toxicity tests with brine shrimp. The theoretical results show that the adsorption of CS is energetically more favorable on the ZnTiO3 surface than on the TiO2 surface. The experimental results show that the system consisting of ZnTiO3/TiO2 (200 mg L−1), H2O2 (0.1%), and UVB light removes 99% of CS from aqueous solutions after 60 min and reduces the mortality of nauplii in 90% after 90 min. This system was reused in five consecutive cycles with a total loss of efficiency of 30%.
Development of a Holistic In Vitro Cell-Free Approach to Determine the Redox Bioactivity of Agricultural Products
Authors: Skaperda Zoi , Tekos Fotios , Vardakas Periklis , Nechalioti Paraskevi-Maria , Kourti Maria , Patouna Anastasia , Makri Sotiria , Gkasdrogka Maria , Kouretas Demetrios
Published: November 2023

In recent years, there has been a strong consumer demand for food products that provide nutritional benefits to human health. Therefore, the assessment of the biological activity is considered as an important parameter for the promotion of high-quality food products. Herein, we introduce a novel methodology comprising a complete set of in vitro cell-free screening techniques for the evaluation of the bioactivity of various food products on the basis of their antioxidant capacity. These assays examine the free radical scavenging activities, the reducing properties, and the protective ability against oxidative damage to biomolecules. The adoption of the proposed battery of antioxidant assays is anticipated to contribute to the holistic characterization of the bioactivity of the food product under examination. Consumer motivations and expectations with respect to nutritious food products with bio-functional properties drive the global food market toward food certification. Therefore, the development and application of scientific methodologies that examine the quality characteristics of food products could increase consumers’ trust and promote their beneficial properties for human health.
Magnetic Stimulation as a Therapeutic Approach for Brain Modulation and Repair: Underlying Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms
Authors: Dufor Tom , Lohof Ann M. , Sherrard Rachel M.
Published: November 2023

Neurological and psychiatric diseases generally have no cure, so innovative non-pharmacological treatments, including non-invasive brain stimulation, are interesting therapeutic tools as they aim to trigger intrinsic neural repair mechanisms. A common brain stimulation technique involves the application of pulsed magnetic fields to affected brain regions. However, investigations of magnetic brain stimulation are complicated by the use of many different stimulation parameters. Magnetic brain stimulation is usually divided into two poorly connected approaches: (1) clinically used high-intensity stimulation (0.5–2 Tesla, T) and (2) experimental or epidemiologically studied low-intensity stimulation (μT–mT). Human tests of both approaches are reported to have beneficial outcomes, but the underlying biology is unclear, and thus optimal stimulation parameters remain ill defined. Here, we aim to bring together what is known about the biology of magnetic brain stimulation from human, animal, and in vitro studies. We identify the common effects of different stimulation protocols; show how different types of pulsed magnetic fields interact with nervous tissue; and describe cellular mechanisms underlying their effects—from intracellular signalling cascades, through synaptic plasticity and the modulation of network activity, to long-term structural changes in neural circuits. Recent advances in magneto-biology show clear mechanisms that may explain low-intensity stimulation effects in the brain. With its large breadth of stimulation parameters, not available to high-intensity stimulation, low-intensity focal magnetic stimulation becomes a potentially powerful treatment tool for human application.
Troponin and a Myopathy-Linked Mutation in TPM3 Inhibit Cofilin-2-Induced Thin Filament Depolymerization
Authors: Robaszkiewicz Katarzyna , Wróbel Julia , Moraczewska Joanna
Published: November 2023

Uniform actin filament length is required for synchronized contraction of skeletal muscle. In myopathies linked to mutations in tropomyosin (Tpm) genes, irregular thin filaments are a common feature, which may result from defects in length maintenance mechanisms. The current work investigated the effects of the myopathy-causing p.R91C variant in Tpm3.12, a tropomyosin isoform expressed in slow-twitch muscle fibers, on the regulation of actin severing and depolymerization by cofilin-2. The affinity of cofilin-2 for F-actin was not significantly changed by either Tpm3.12 or Tpm3.12-R91C, though it increased two-fold in the presence of troponin (without Ca2+). Saturation of the filament with cofilin-2 removed both Tpm variants from the filament, although Tpm3.12-R91C was more resistant. In the presence of troponin (±Ca2+), Tpm remained on the filament, even at high cofilin-2 concentrations. Both Tpm3.12 variants inhibited filament severing and depolymerization by cofilin-2. However, the inhibition was more efficient in the presence of Tpm3.12-R91C, indicating that the pathogenic variant impaired cofilin-2-dependent actin filament turnover. Troponin (±Ca2+) further inhibited but did not completely stop cofilin-2-dependent actin severing and depolymerization.
Thermostable Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Enhances the Production and Activity of Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Park SangRok , Kim SeJong , Lim KyungMin , Shin YeoKyung , Song Kwonwoo , Kang Geun-Ho , Kim Dae Young , Shin Hang-Cheol , Cho Ssang-Goo
Published: November 2023

Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cell (WJ-MSC)-derived exosomes contain a diverse cargo and exhibit remarkable biological activity, rendering them suitable for regenerative and immune-modulating functions. However, the quantity of secretion is insufficient. A large body of prior work has investigated the use of various growth factors to enhance MSC-derived exosome production. In this study, we evaluated the utilization of thermostable basic fibroblast growth factor (TS-bFGF) with MSC culture and exosome production. MSCs cultured with TS-bFGF displayed superior proliferation, as evidenced by cell cycle analysis, compared with wild-type bFGF (WT-bFGF). Stemness was assessed through mRNA expression level and colony-forming unit (CFU) assays. Furthermore, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) measurements revealed that MSCs cultured with TS-bFGF produced a greater quantity of exosomes, particularly under three-dimensional culture conditions. These produced exosomes demonstrated substantial anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects, as confirmed by nitric oxide (NO) assays and scratch assays. Taken together, we demonstrate that utilization of TS-bFGF for WJ-MSC-derived exosome production not only increases exosome yield but also enhances the potential for various applications in inflammation regulation and wound healing.
Adjustment in the Composition and Organization of Proteus mirabilis Lipids during the Swarming Process
Authors: Stolarek Paulina , Bernat Przemysław , Różalski Antoni
Published: November 2023

Proteus mirabilis, an opportunistic pathogen of the urinary tract, is known for its dimorphism and mobility. A connection of lipid alterations, induced by the rods elongation process, with enhanced pathogenicity of long-form morphotype for the development of urinary tract infections, seems highly probable. Therefore, research on the adjustment in the composition and organization of P. mirabilis lipids forming elongated rods was undertaken. The analyses performed using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry showed that drastic modifications in the morphology of P. mirabilis rods that occur during the swarming process are directly related to deprivation of the long-form cells of PE 33:1 and PG 31:2 and their enrichment with PE 32:1, PE 34:1, PE 34:2, PG 30:2, PG 32:1, and PG 34:1. The analyses conducted by the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed negligible effects of the swarming process on fatty acids synthesis. However, the constant proportions between unsaturated and saturated fatty acids confirmed that phenotypic modifications in the P. mirabilis rods induced by motility were independent of the saturation of the phospholipid tails. The method of the Förster resonance energy transfer revealed the influence of the swarming process on the melting of ordered lipid rafts present in the short-form rods, corresponding to the homogeneity of lipid bilayers in the long-form rods of P. mirabilis. Confocal microscope photographs visualized strong Rhod-PE fluorescence of the whole area of swarmer cells, in contrast to weak membrane fluorescence of non-swarmer cells. It suggested an increased permeability of the P. mirabilis bilayers in long-form rods morphologically adapted to the swarming process. These studies clearly demonstrate that swarming motility regulates the lipid composition and organization in P. mirabilis rods.
Exploring the Anti-Osteoporotic Potential of Daucosterol: Impact on Osteoclast and Osteoblast Activities
Authors: Lee Sumin , Kim Jae-Hyun , Kim Minsun , Hong Sooyeon , Park Hoyeon , Kim Eom Ji , Kim Eun-Young , Lee Chungho , Sohn Youngjoo , Jung Hyuk Sang
Published: November 2023

Osteoporosis is a debilitating condition characterized by reduced bone mass and density, leading to compromised structural integrity of the bones. While conventional treatments, such as bisphosphonates and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), have been employed to mitigate bone loss, their effectiveness is often compromised by a spectrum of adverse side effects, ranging from gastrointestinal discomfort and musculoskeletal pain to more severe concerns like atypical fractures and hormonal imbalances. Daucosterol (DC), a natural compound derived from various plant sources, has recently garnered considerable attention in the field of pharmacology. In this study, we investigated the anti-osteoporosis potential of DC by characterizing its role in osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced osteoporosis. The inhibitory effect of DC on osteoclast differentiation was determined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, F-actin ring formation by fluorescent staining, and bone resorption by pit formation assay. In addition, the calcification nodule deposition effect of osteoblasts was determined by Alizarin red S staining. The effective mechanisms of both cells were verified by Western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). To confirm the effect of DC in vivo, DC was administered to a model of osteoporosis by intraperitoneal administration of LPS. The anti-osteoporosis effect was then characterized by micro-CT and serum analysis. The results showed that DC effectively inhibited osteoclast differentiation at an early stage, promoted osteoblast activity, and inhibited LPS-induced bone density loss. The results of this study suggest that DC can treat osteoporosis through osteoclast and osteoblast regulation, and therefore may be considered as a new therapeutic alternative for osteoporosis patients in the future.
The Molecular Role of Polyamines in Age-Related Diseases: An Update
Authors: Jimenez Gutierrez Guadalupe Elizabeth , Borbolla Jiménez Fabiola V. , Muñoz Luis G. , Tapia Guerrero Yessica Sarai , Murillo Melo Nadia Mireya , Cristóbal-Luna José Melesio , Leyva Garcia Norberto , Cordero-Martínez Joaquín , Magaña Jonathan J.
Published: November 2023

Polyamines (Pas) are short molecules that exhibit two or three amine groups that are positively charged at a physiological pH. These small molecules are present in high concentrations in a wide variety of organisms and tissues, suggesting that they play an important role in cellular physiology. Polyamines include spermine, spermidine, and putrescine, which play important roles in age-related diseases that have not been completely elucidated. Aging is a natural process, defined as the time-related deterioration of the physiological functions; it is considered a risk factor for degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and musculoskeletal diseases; arthritis; and even cancer. In this review, we provide a new perspective on the participation of Pas in the cellular and molecular processes related to age-related diseases, focusing our attention on important degenerative diseases such as Alzheimerߣs disease, Parkinsonߣs disease, osteoarthritis, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis. This new perspective leads us to propose that Pas function as novel biomarkers for age-related diseases, with the main purpose of achieving new molecular alternatives for healthier aging.
Naphthalimide-Modified Tridentate Platinum(II) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, and Application in Singlet Oxygen Generation
Authors: Gong Zhong-Liang , Pan Qing-Jun , Ma Dian-Xue , Zhong Yu-Wu
Published: November 2023

Singlet oxygen (1O2), representing an important reactive oxygen species, has promising applications in biomedical, material, and environmental sciences. Photosensitized production of 1O2 using organic dyes is highly desirable and the exploration of highly efficient photosensitizers has received considerable attention. Herein, two tridentate Pt(II) complexes, i.e., cationic 1(PF6) and neutral 2, modified with the ethynylnaphthalimide chromophore, were designed and prepared for the application in 1O2 generation. Spectroscopic studies and computational results suggest that 1(PF6) and 2 display the lowest-energy absorption bands centered at 435–465 nm with the molar extinction coefficients of 0.6–3.2 × 104 M−1 cm−1, originating from the singlet ligand-to-ligand charge transfer (1LLCT) and a mixture of 1LLCT and singlet ligand-centered (LC) transitions, respectively. Moreover, they show similar phosphorescence at 620–640 nm assigned to the Pt-perturbed triplet LC emission of the ethynylnaphthalimide moiety. Thanks to the relatively long phosphorescence lifetimes, these complexes exhibit O2-dependent phosphorescence intensities with good reversibility and stability. They are able to behave as efficient triplet photosensitizers to promote the 1O2 generation with high quantum yields (84–89%). This work indicates that the combination of an organic chromophore with Pt(II) complexes provides an effective method to obtain photosensitizers for 1O2 generation.
Effect of the Annealing Temperature of Lithiophilic Ag–Cu Co-Deposition on the Cycling Performance of Li-Metal Anodes
Authors: Kim Dae Hyun , Kang Seul Gi , Kim Bo Jung , Lee Heegyoun , Kim Jinmo , Yoon Chang-Bun
Published: November 2023

Practical applications of Li-metal anodes are limited by dendrite formation, Li loss, and poor reaction, resulting in a low Coulombic efficiency. In this study, we investigated the effects of island-shaped Ag atoms on the electrochemical behavior of Li-metal anodes. A Ag–Cu film was co-deposited through sputtering and subsequent annealing to anchor the Ag atoms with an island shape on a Cu substrate. The Ag target was co-sputtered with Cu with controlled atomic ratios in the Ag–Cu alloy. The sputtering thickness was set to 100 nm, and various annealing conditions were applied. The embedded island-shaped Ag atoms provided effective nucleation sites for Li deposition during the electrochemical nucleation of Li, increasing the nucleation density and spatial uniformity while decreasing the nucleation size and potential. Compact dendrite-free high-density Li deposition was achieved by annealing the Ag–Cu current collector (CC) at 600 °C. Under repetitive Li plating and stripping for 110 cycles at a current density of 0.5 mAcm−2 and capacity of 1 mAhcm−2, a high Coulombic efficiency of 98.5% was achieved. Conversely, the bare Cu CC had a life of up to 67 cycles under the same test conditions.
Soluble ST2 in Heart Failure: A Clinical Role beyond B-Type Natriuretic Peptide
Authors: Riccardi Mauro , Myhre Peder L. , Zelniker Thomas A. , Metra Marco , Januzzi James L. , Inciardi Riccardo M.
Published: November 2023

Soluble (s)ST2 has been proposed as a useful biomarker for heart failure (HF) patient management. Myocardial damage or mechanical stress stimulate sST2 release. ST2 competes with a membrane bound receptor (ST2 ligand, or ST2L) for interleukin-33 (IL-33) binding, inhibiting the effects induced by the ST2L/IL-33 interaction so that excessive sST2 may contribute to myocardial fibrosis and ventricular remodeling. Compared to natriuretic peptides (NPs), sST2 concentration is not substantially affected by age, sex, body mass index, kidney function, atrial fibrillation, anemia, or HF etiology, and has low intra-individual variation. Its prognostic role as an independent marker is well reported in the literature. However, there is a gap on its use in combination with NPs, currently the only biomarkers recommended by European and American guidelines for HF management. Reflecting the activation of two distinct biological systems, a benefit from the use of sST2 and NP in combination is advocated. The aim of this review is to report the current scientific knowledge on sST2 in the acute and chronic HF settings with a particular attention to its additive role to natriuretic peptides (NPs).
Middle Ear Cholesteatoma and Vestibular Schwannoma Resection Followed by Cochlear Implant: Surgical Challenges and Audiological Outcomes
Authors: Carasek Natalia , Cristovão Danielle , Oliveira Lucas Alves Teixeira , Caldas Fernanda Ferreira , Correia Fernando Massa , Elias Thais Gomes Abrahão , Amorim Rivadávio , Bahmad Jr Fayez
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: The occurrence of vestibular schwannoma (VS) associated with cholesteatoma is rare. A hearing impairment is one of the most significant issues in such cases. Moreover, the presence of middle and inner ear pathologies combined may represent a surgical challenge. No studies have described a combined surgical approach for these coexisting conditions (VS and cholesteatoma), nor the hearing rehabilitation outcomes of using cochlear implants for these patients. (2) Case Report: This paper is on a female patient who underwent simultaneous surgical treatments for VS and middle ear cholesteatoma in the right ear followed by a cochlear implant, describing the technique and the audiological results. (3) Conclusions: The surgical approach was successful and enabled the resection of lesions with the auditory nerve and cochlea preservation. Cochlear implantation in the right ear showed positive postoperative results, with an improvement in the results with the CI in silent and noisy environments.
Failure Behavior and Surrounding Soil Stress Responses of Suction Anchor in Low-Strength Muddy Clay
Authors: Luo Jiwei , Liu Xiaoqiang , Liu Xianpeng , Zuo Dianjun , An Xiaoyu , Yu Liqiang
Published: November 2023

Anchorage failure of a suction anchor is more likely to occur in low-strength muddy clay. This paper focuses on the failure behaviors of suction anchors and muddy clay stress responses. The centrifugal model test was used to study the loading processes of suction anchors with various pulling angles. Firstly, the multi-stage developing process of anchoring force was analyzed according to the test results. Numerical modeling was used to validate the test results. The displacement of the suction anchor and muddy clay soil were analyzed using the numerical results. Then, the numerical and testing results were compared to analyze the horizontal soil pressure responses around the suction anchors. It was found that the change in loading direction affected the distribution and development of soil stress. The horizontal soil resistance played a crucial role in improving the bearing capacity. The soil stress variation and anchor displacement revealed that the suction anchors exhibited multi-attitude coupling movement during the inclined pulling. The vertical pulling suction anchor showed shear–slip failure behaviors, while the inclined pulling suction anchors showed compression–shear–slip coupling failure behaviors. The results of this study provide insight into the interaction mechanism between suction anchors and muddy clay, serving as a reference for the design and application of suction anchors.
Predefined-Time and Prescribed-Performance Control Methods Combined with Second-Order Terminal Sliding Mode Control for an Unmanned Planing Hull System with Input Delay and Unknown Disturbance
Authors: Han Seongik
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigate a terminal sliding mode control (TSMC) system combined with predefined-time and prescribed-performance control methods for an unmanned planing hull (UPH) system in the presence of a control input delay at the heading axis and a porpoising motion due to pitching-moment disturbance. A second-order TSMC system is adopted to bypass the unstable heading-angle response of the conventional first-order TSMC system caused by the control input delay of the hydraulic rudder actuator system. Next, predefined-time and prescribed-performance control methods are proposed to enhance the disturbance rejection performance of an uncertain UPH. The results of sequential comparative simulations show that the disturbance rejection performance of the proposed hybrid disturbance rejector using both the predefined-time and prescribed-performance control methods for a porpoising motion is superior to those of conventional controller systems without introducing disturbance observers.
Cortinarius and Tomentella Fungi Become Dominant Taxa in Taiga Soil after Fire Disturbance
Authors: Cheng Zhichao , Wu Song , Pan Hong , Lu Xinming , Liu Yongzhi , Yang Libin
Published: November 2023

Fungi have important ecological functions in the soil of forests, where they decompose organic matter, provide plants with nutrients, increase plant water uptake, and improve plant resistance to adversity, disease, and disturbance. A forest fire presents a serious disturbance of the local ecosystem and can be considered an important component affecting the function of ecosystem biomes; however, the response of soil fungi to fire disturbance is largely unknown. To investigate the effects of fire disturbance on the community composition and diversity of soil fungi in a taiga forest, we collected soil from plots that had undergone a light, moderate, and heavy fire 10 years previously, with the inclusion of a fire-free control. The present soil fungi were characterized using Illumina MiSeq technology, and the sequences were analyzed to identify differences in the community composition and diversity in response to the changed soil physicochemical properties. The results showed that the Chao1 index, which characterizes the alpha diversity of the fungi, did not change significantly. In contrast, the Shannon index increased significantly (p < 0.05) and the Simpson index decreased significantly (p < 0.05) following a light or heavy fire disturbance compared to the control. The relative abundance of Basidiomycota was significantly higher in the soil of the fire sites than that in the control (p < 0.01), and the relative abundance of Ascomycota was significantly lower (p < 0.01). The results of principal coordinates analyses (PCoAs) showed that fire disturbance highly significantly affected the beta diversity of soil fungi (p < 0.001), while the results of canonical correlation analysis (CCA) indicated that the available nitrogen (AN), moisture content (MC), pH, available potassium (AK), and total nitrogen (TN) contents of the soil significantly affected the compositional structure and diversity of the soil fungal communities. The results of functional prediction showed that the majority of the detected soil fungi were symbiotrophs, followed by saprotrophs and saprotroph–symbiotrophs, with ectomycorrhiza being the dominant functional taxon. Fire disturbance significantly reduced the relative abundance of ectomycorrhiza (p < 0.05). This study illustrates that fire disturbance alters the structural composition, diversity, dominance, and relative abundance of the guilds of soil fungal communities in taiga forest, and strongly affected the beta diversity of soil fungi, with AN, MC, pH, AK, and TN being the most important factors affecting their community structure. The results may provide a useful reference for the restoration and rehabilitation of taiga forests after fire disturbance.
Primed Tactile Stimulus Processing during Sleep
Authors: Inanc Gonca , Ozgoren Murat
Published: November 2023

The aim was to investigate how the primed and unprimed non-painful tactile stimuli during sleep would be processed. A total of 22 healthy subjects (19.55 ± 1.10 years) were randomly divided into two groups. The same stimuli were applied to both groups, but the study group (SG) received them twice (daytime and sleep), whereas the control group (CG) received them only during sleep. A 40-channel PSG and a pneumatic tactile stimulator unit were used. Evoked potential components of the CZ electrode were examined in four sleep stages (N1, N2, N3, and REM). The Mann–Whitney U test was used for group comparison, and the Wilcoxon test was used for in-group evaluations. The P50 and N300 response components were observed in all sleep stages in both groups. P50 decreased as sleep deepened in the SG. The N300 increased as sleep deepened and started to decrease again in the REM stage. Moreover, in N1, the amplitudes of P200-N300 and N300-P450 in the SG were significantly greater than those in the CG. The fact that P50 was observed even in N3 indicates that bottom-up sensory processing continues during sleep. Moreover, the central processing of primed and unprimed stimuli exhibited dynamic differences. Furthermore, an increase in N300 amplitude suggests suppressive processes to facilitate and maintain sleep.
Geographical Variation in Body Size in the Asian Common Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus)
Authors: Zhang Kunhao , Qiu Duojing , Zhao Li , Yan Chengzhi , Jin Long , Liao Wenbo
Published: November 2023

The geographic variation in life-history traits of organisms and the mechanisms underlying adaptation are interesting ideas in evolutionary biology. This study investigated age and body size of the Asian common toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) among five populations along a geographical gradient. We found that geographical variation in age was non-significant among populations but there was a significant and positive correlation between mean age and body size. Although the body size values at 1043 m are quite different from other sites, after controlling for age effects, there was a significant positive correlation between altitude and body size. Our findings followed the predictions of Bergmann’s rule, suggesting that the body size of D. melanostictus is potentially influenced by the low air temperatures at higher altitudes.
Fluid Film Bearings and CFD Modeling: A Review
Authors: Pérez-Vigueras Demetrio , Colín-Ocampo Jorge , Blanco-Ortega Andrés , Campos-Amezcua Rafael , Mazón-Valadez Cuauhtémoc , Rodríguez-Reyes Víctor I. , Landa-Damas Saulo Jesús
Published: November 2023

This paper is a review of the literature about CFD modeling and analysis of journal, thrust, and aerostatic bearings; the advantages and disadvantages of each are specified, and the bearing problems that have been analyzed are discussed to improve their designs and performance. A CFD transient analysis of journal bearings was conducted using the dynamic mesh method together with movement algorithms while keeping a structured mesh of a good quality in the ANSYS Fluent software to determine the equilibrium position of the journal and calculate the dynamic coefficients. Finally, areas of opportunity for analyzing and designing fluid film bearings to improve their performance are proposed.
Cost Prediction in Blockchain-Enabled Pharmaceutical Supply Chain under Uncertain Demand
Authors: Havaeji Hossein , Dao Thien-My , Wong Tony
Published: November 2023

Cost prediction can provide a pharma supply chain industry with completing their projects on schedule and within budget. This paper provides a new multi-function Blockchain Technology-enabled Pharmaceutical Supply Chain (BT-enabled PSC) mathematical cost model, including PSC costs, BT costs, and uncertain demand. The purpose of this study is to find the most appropriate algorithm(s) with minimum prediction errors to predict the costs of the BT-enabled PSC model. This paper also aims to determine the importance and cost of each component of the multi-function model. To reach these goals, we combined four Supervised Learning algorithms (KNN, DT, SVM, and NB) with two Evolutionary Computation algorithms (HS and PSO) after data generation. Each component of the multi-function model has its importance, and we applied the Feature Weighting approach to analyze their importance. Next, four performance metrics evaluated the multi-function model, and the Total Ranking Score determined predictive algorithms with high reliability. The results indicate the HS-NB and PSO-NB algorithms perform better than the other six algorithms in predicting the costs of the multi-function model with small errors. The findings also show that the Raw Materials cost has a more substantial influence on the model than the other components. This study also introduces the components of the multi-function BT-enabled PSC model.
WT-CNN: A Hybrid Machine Learning Model for Heart Disease Prediction
Authors: Mohammad Farah , Al-Ahmadi Saad
Published: November 2023

Heart disease remains a predominant health challenge, being the leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) take an estimated 17.9 million lives each year, accounting for 32% of all global deaths. Thus, there is a global health concern necessitating accurate prediction models for timely intervention. Several data mining techniques are used by researchers to help healthcare professionals to predict heart disease. However, the traditional machine learning models for predicting heart disease often struggle with handling imbalanced datasets. Moreover, when prediction is on the bases of complex data like ECG, feature extraction and selecting the most pertinent features that accurately represent the underlying pathophysiological conditions without succumbing to overfitting is also a challenge. In this paper, a continuous wavelet transformation and convolutional neural network-based hybrid model abbreviated as WT-CNN is proposed. The key phases of WT-CNN are ECG data collection, preprocessing, RUSBoost-based data balancing, CWT-based feature extraction, and CNN-based final prediction. Through extensive experimentation and evaluation, the proposed model achieves an exceptional accuracy of 97.2% in predicting heart disease. The experimental results show that the approach improves classification accuracy compared to other classification approaches and that the presented model can be successfully used by healthcare professionals for predicting heart disease. Furthermore, this work can have a potential impact on improving heart disease prediction and ultimately enhancing patient lifestyle.