bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Self-Supplying H2O2 Modified Nanozyme-Loaded Hydrogel for Root Canal Biofilm Eradication
Authors: Song Jiazhuo , Hong Lihua , Zou Xinying , Alshawwa Hamed , Zhao Yuanhang , Zhao Hong , Liu Xin , Si Chao , Zhang Zhimin
Published: September 2022

The success of root canal therapy depends mainly on the complete elimination of the root canal bacterial biofilm. The validity and biocompatibility of root canal disinfectant materials are imperative for the success of root canal treatment. However, the insufficiency of the currently available root canal disinfectant materials highlights that more advanced materials are still needed. In this study, a nanozyme-loaded hydrogel (Fe3O4-CaO2-Hydrogel) was modified and analyzed as a root canal disinfectant material. Fe3O4-CaO2-Hydrogel was fabricated and examined for its release profile, biocompatibility, and antibacterial activity against E. faecalis and S. sanguis biofilms in vitro. Furthermore, its efficiency in eliminating the root canal bacterial biofilm removal in SD rat teeth was also evaluated. The results in vitro showed that Fe3O4-CaO2-Hydrogel could release reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, it showed good biocompatibility, disrupting bacterial cell membranes, and inhibiting exopolysaccharide production (p < 0.0001). In addition, in vivo results showed that Fe3O4-CaO2-Hydrogel strongly scavenged on root canal biofilm infection and prevented further inflammation expansion (p < 0.05). Altogether, suggesting that Fe3O4-CaO2-Hydrogel can be used as a new effective biocompatible root canal disinfectant material. Our research provides a broad prospect for clinical root canal disinfection, even extended to other refractory infections in deep sites.
Galectins: Important Regulators in Normal and Pathologic Pregnancies
Authors: Chen Min , Shi Jia-Lu , Zheng Zi-Meng , Lin Zhi , Li Ming-Qing , Shao Jun
Published: September 2022

Galectins (Gal) are characterized by their affinity for galactoside structures on glycoconjugates. This relationship is mediated by carbohydrate recognition domains, which are multifunctional regulators of basic cellular biological processes with high structural similarity among family members. They participate in both innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as in reproductive immunology. Recently, the discovery that galectins are highly expressed at the maternal–fetal interface has garnerd the interest of experts in human reproduction. Galectins are involved in a variety of functions such as maternal–fetal immune tolerance, angiogenesis, trophoblast invasion and placental development and are considered to be important mediators of successful embryo implantation and during pregnancy. Dysregulation of these galectins is associated with abnormal and pathological pregnancies (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth). Our work reviews the regulatory mechanisms of galectins in normal and pathological pregnancies and has implications for clinicians in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy-related diseases.
A Statistical Analysis of the Sequence and Structure of Thermophilic and Non-Thermophilic Proteins
Authors: Ahmed Zahoor , Zulfiqar Hasan , Tang Lixia , Lin Hao
Published: September 2022

Thermophilic proteins have various practical applications in theoretical research and in industry. In recent years, the demand for thermophilic proteins on an industrial scale has been increasing; therefore, the engineering of thermophilic proteins has become a hot direction in the field of protein engineering. However, the exact mechanism of thermostability of proteins is not yet known, for engineering thermophilic proteins knowing the basis of thermostability is necessary. In order to understand the basis of the thermostability in proteins, we have made a statistical analysis of the sequences, secondary structures, hydrogen bonds, salt bridges, DHA (Donor–Hydrogen–Accepter) angles, and bond lengths of ten pairs of thermophilic proteins and their non-thermophilic orthologous. Our findings suggest that polar amino acids contribute to thermostability in proteins by forming hydrogen bonds and salt bridges which provide resistance against protein denaturation. Short bond length and a wider DHA angle provide greater bond stability in thermophilic proteins. Moreover, the increased frequency of aromatic amino acids in thermophilic proteins contributes to thermal stability by forming more aromatic interactions. Additionally, the coil, helix, and loop in the secondary structure also contribute to thermostability.
How Microbiota-Derived Metabolites Link the Gut to the Brain during Neuroinflammation
Authors: Rebeaud Jessica , Peter Benjamin , Pot Caroline
Published: September 2022

Microbiota-derived metabolites are important molecules connecting the gut to the brain. Over the last decade, several studies have highlighted the importance of gut-derived metabolites in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). Indeed, microbiota-derived metabolites modulate the immune system and affect demyelination. Here, we discuss the current knowledge about microbiota-derived metabolites implications in MS and in different mouse models of neuroinflammation. We focus on the main families of microbial metabolites that play a role during neuroinflammation. A better understanding of the role of those metabolites may lead to new therapeutical avenues to treat neuroinflammatory diseases targeting the gut–brain axis.
Reactive Oxygen Species and Long Non-Coding RNAs, an Unexpected Crossroad in Cancer Cells
Authors: Kacso Teodor Paul , Zahu Renata , Tirpe Alexandru , Paslari Elina Valeria , Nuțu Andreea , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: September 2022

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) have recently been identified as key regulators of oxidative stress in several malignancies. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) must be constantly regulated to maintain cancer cell proliferation and chemoresistance and to prevent apoptosis. This review will discuss how lncRNAs alter the ROS level in cancer cells. We will first describe the role of lncRNAs in the nuclear factor like 2 (Nrf-2) coordinated antioxidant response of cancer cells. Secondly, we show how lncRNAs can promote the Warburg effect in cancer cells, thus shifting the cancer cell’s “building blocks” towards molecules important in oxidative stress regulation. Lastly, we explain the role that lncRNAs play in ROS-induced cancer cell apoptosis and proliferation.
Comparative Metabolome and Transcriptome Analysis of Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in White and Pink Petals of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Shao Dongnan , Liang Qian , Wang Xuefeng , Zhu Qian-Hao , Liu Feng , Li Yanjun , Zhang Xinyu , Yang Yonglin , Sun Jie , Xue Fei
Published: September 2022

Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is one of the important fiber crops. Cotton flowers usually appear white (or cream-colored) without colored spots at the petal base, and turn pink on the next day after flowering. In this study, using a mutant showing pink petals with crimson spots at their base, we conducted comparative metabolome and transcriptome analyses to investigate the molecular mechanism of coloration in cotton flowers. Metabolic profiling showed that cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and glycosidic derivatives of pelargonidins and peonidins are the main pigments responsible for the coloration of the pink petals of the mutant. A total of 2443 genes differentially expressed (DEGs) between the white and pink petals were identified by RNA-sequencing. Many DEGs are structural genes and regulatory genes of the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway. Among them, MYB21, UGT88F3, GSTF12, and VPS32.3 showed significant association with the accumulation of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside in the pink petals. Taken together, our study preliminarily revealed the metabolites responsible for the pink petals and the key genes regulating the biosynthesis and accumulation of anthocyanins in the pink petals. The results provide new insights into the biochemical and molecular mechanism underlying anthocyanin biosynthesis in upland cotton.
Ocular Lymphatic and Glymphatic Systems: Implications for Retinal Health and Disease
Authors: Uddin Nasir , Rutar Matt
Published: September 2022

Clearance of ocular fluid and metabolic waste is a critical function of the eye in health and disease. The eye has distinct fluid outflow pathways in both the anterior and posterior segments. Although the anterior outflow pathway is well characterized, little is known about posterior outflow routes. Recent studies suggest that lymphatic and glymphatic systems play an important role in the clearance of fluid and waste products from the posterior segment of the eye. The lymphatic system is a vascular network that runs parallel to the blood circulatory system. It plays an essential role in maintenance of fluid homeostasis and immune surveillance in the body. Recent studies have reported lymphatics in the cornea (under pathological conditions), ciliary body, choroid, and optic nerve meninges. The evidence of lymphatics in optic nerve meninges is, however, limited. An alternative lymphatic system termed the glymphatic system was recently discovered in the rodent eye and brain. This system is a glial cell-based perivascular network responsible for the clearance of interstitial fluid and metabolic waste. In this review, we will discuss our current knowledge of ocular lymphatic and glymphatic systems and their role in retinal degenerative diseases.
Low Expression of Mitofusin 1 Gene Leads to Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Embryonic Genome Activation Failure in Ovine-Bovine Inter-Species Cloned Embryos
Authors: Wu Shanshan , Zhao Xiaoyu , Wu Meiling , Yang Lei , Liu Xuefei , Li Danyi , Xu Han , Zhao Yuefang , Su Xiaohu , Wei Zhuying , Bai Chunling , Su Guanghua , Li Guangpeng
Published: September 2022

Inter-species somatic cell nuclear transfer (iSCNT) is significant in the study of biological problems such as embryonic genome activation and the mitochondrial function of embryos. Here, we used iSCNT as a model to determine whether abnormal embryo genome activation was caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. First, we found the ovine-bovine iSCNT embryos were developmentally blocked at the 8-cell stage. The reactive oxygen species level, mitochondrial membrane potential, and ATP level in ovine-bovine cloned embryos were significantly different from both bovine-bovine and IVF 8-cell stage embryos. RNA sequencing and q-PCR analysis revealed that mitochondrial transport, mitochondrial translational initiation, mitochondrial large ribosomal subunit, and mitochondrial outer membrane genes were abnormally expressed in the ovine-bovine embryos, and the mitochondrial outer membrane and mitochondrial ribosome large subunit genes, mitochondrial fusion gene 1, and ATPase Na+/K+ transporting subunit beta 3 gene were expressed at lower levels in the ovine-bovine cloned embryos. Furthermore, we found that overexpression and knockdown of Mfn1 significantly affected mitochondrial fusion and subsequent biological functions such as production of ATP, mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species and gene expressions in cloned embryos. These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanism by which the Mfn1 gene regulates embryonic development and embryonic genome activation events.
Regulatory Network of Serine/Arginine-Rich (SR) Proteins: The Molecular Mechanism and Physiological Function in Plants
Authors: Jin Xiaoli
Published: September 2022

Serine/arginine-rich (SR) proteins are a type of splicing factor. They play significant roles in constitutive and alternative pre-mRNA splicing, and are involved in post-splicing activities, such as mRNA nuclear export, nonsense-mediated mRNA decay, mRNA translation, and miRNA biogenesis. In plants, SR proteins function under a complex regulatory network by protein–protein and RNA–protein interactions between SR proteins, other splicing factors, other proteins, or even RNAs. The regulatory networks of SR proteins are complex—they are regulated by the SR proteins themselves, they are phosphorylated and dephosphorylated through interactions with kinase, and they participate in signal transduction pathways, whereby signaling cascades can link the splicing machinery to the exterior environment. In a complex network, SR proteins are involved in plant growth and development, signal transduction, responses to abiotic and biotic stresses, and metabolism. Here, I review the current status of research on plant SR proteins, construct a model of SR proteins function, and ask many questions about SR proteins in plants.
Retinal Oxygen Extraction in Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Garhöfer Gerhard , Bata Ahmed M. , Popa-Cherecheanu Alina , Hommer Anton , Vass Clemens , Resch Hemma , Schmidl Doreen , Werkmeister René M. , Schmetterer Leopold
Published: September 2022

Objective: To compare total retinal oxygen extraction between patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and healthy control subjects. Design: A prospective, single-center, cross-sectional, case–control study performed at the Medical University of Vienna. Subjects: Forty patients with POAG and 40 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Methods: Total retinal blood flow was measured using Doppler optical coherence tomography (OCT). Retinal arterial and venous oxygen saturation was measured using reflectance spectroscopy. From these parameters, oxygen content in the retinal arterial and venous circulation as well as total retinal oxygen extraction were calculated. Results: Total retinal blood flow was lower in POAG (25.2 ± 6.7 µL/min) as compared to healthy control subjects (35.6 ± 8.3 µL/min, p < 0.001). Retinal arterial oxygen content was not different between the two groups (0.18 ± 0.01 mL(O2)/mL in both groups, p < 0.761), but retinal venous oxygen content was higher in POAG (0.15 ± 0.01 mL(O2)/mL) than in healthy controls (0.14 ± 0.01 mL(O2)/mL p < 0.001). Accordingly, retinal oxygen extraction was reduced in POAG (0.8 ± 0.3 µL(O2)/min as compared to healthy controls: 1.4 ± 0.4 µL(O2)/min, p < 0.001). There was a significant association between total retinal blood flow and total retinal oxygen extraction with measures of structural and functional damage (p < 0.001 each). Conclusions: This study indicates that POAG is associated with a reduction in total retinal oxygen extraction linked to structural and functional damage of the disease. Since the technology is non-invasive, it allows for longitudinal studies investigating to which degree low retinal oxygen extraction is linked to the progression of the disease.
Immobilization of Wnt Fragment Peptides on Magnetic Nanoparticles or Synthetic Surfaces Regulate Wnt Signaling Kinetics
Authors: Hu Bin , Rotherham Michael , Farrow Neil , Roach Paul , Dobson Jon , El Haj Alicia J.
Published: September 2022

Wnt signaling plays an important role in embryogenesis and adult stem cell homeostasis. Its diminished activation is implicated in osteoporosis and degenerative neural diseases. However, systematic administration of Wnt-signaling agonists carries risk, as aberrantly activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling is linked to cancer. Therefore, technologies for local modulation and control of Wnt signaling targeted to specific sites of disease or degeneration have potential therapeutic value in the treatment of degenerative diseases. We reported a facile approach to locally activate the canonical Wnt signaling cascade using nanomagnetic actuation or ligand immobilized platforms. Using a human embryonic kidney (HEK293) Luc-TCF/LEF reporter cell line, we demonstrated that targeting the cell membrane Wnt receptor, Frizzled 2, with peptide-tagged magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) triggered canonical Wnt signaling transduction when exposed to a high-gradient, time-varying magnetic field, and the induced TCF/LEF signal transduction was shown to be avidity-dependent. We also demonstrated that the peptide retained signaling activity after functionalization onto glass surfaces, providing a versatile platform for drug discovery or recreation of the cell niche. In conclusion, these results showed that peptide-mediated Wnt signaling kinetics depended not only on ligand concentration but also on the presentation method of the ligand, which may be further modulated by magnetic actuation. This has important implications when designing future therapeutic platforms involving Wnt mimetics.
Overexpression of PagSTOMAGEN, a Positive Regulator of Stomatal Density, Promotes Vegetative Growth in Poplar
Authors: Xia Yufei , Du Kang , Ling Aoyu , Wu Wenqi , Li Jiang , Kang Xiangyang
Published: September 2022

Poplar is an important fast-growing tree, and its photosynthetic capacity directly affects its vegetative growth. Stomatal density is closely related to photosynthetic capacity and growth characteristics in plants. Here, we isolated PagSTOMAGEN from the hybrid poplar (Populus alba × Populus glandulosa) clone 84K and investigated its biological function in vegetative growth. PagSTOMAGEN was expressed predominantly in young tissues and localized in the plasma membrane. Compared with wild-type 84K poplars, PagSTOMAGEN-overexpressing plants displayed an increased plant height, leaf area, internode number, basal diameter, biomass, IAA content, IPR content, and stomatal density. Higher stomatal density improved the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration, and transpiration rate in transgenic poplar. The differential expression of genes related to stomatal development showed a diverged influence of PagSTOMAGEN at different stages of stomatal development. Finally, transcriptomic analysis showed that PagSTOMAGEN affected vegetative growth by affecting the expression of photosynthesis and plant hormone-related genes (such as SAUR75, PQL2, PSBX, ERF1, GNC, GRF5, and ARF11). Taken together, our data indicate that PagSTOMAGEN could positively regulate stomatal density and increase the photosynthetic rate and plant hormone content, thereby promoting vegetative growth in poplar. Our study is of great significance for understanding the relationship between stoma, photosynthesis, and yield breeding in poplar.
Development of the Method for Nusinersen and Its Metabolites Identification in the Serum Samples of Children Treated with Spinraza for Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Studzińska Sylwia , Mazurkiewicz-Bełdzińska Maria , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: September 2022

The application of oligonucleotides as drugs for different genetic diseases is increasing rapidly. Since 2016 they are used during spinal muscular atrophy treatment with the use of nusinersen oligonucleotide. The purpose of this study was to improve methods for the analysis of serum samples of patients treated with nusinersen. The results showed that liquid-liquid extraction (with phenol/chloroform) is insufficient and an additional purification step using solid-phase extraction is necessary. The best results were obtained for microextraction by packed sorbents. Important parameters in the optimization of the method were mainly the type of amine in the mobile phase and the stationary phase. Both influenced the selectivity of metabolite separation and thus their correct identification; while amine type impacted also the intensity of signals. Finally, the highest resolution of separation and the highest peak areas were obtained for N,N-dimethylbutylamine or N,N-diisopropylthylamine with an octadecyl column with a terminal aryl group. Over a dozen of metabolites were successfully identified with the use of methods developed during the study. The 3′ exonucleases and 5′ exonucleases were mainly responsible for nusinersen metabolism, consequently, 3′end shortmers, and 5′end shortmers were observed, as well as metabolites with simultaneous loss of bases at both ends of the sequence. However, some depurination and depyrimidination products were also identified. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on nusinersen and its metabolite identification in serum samples by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry.
Prolonged Hyperglycemia Causes Visual and Cognitive Deficits in Danio rerio
Authors: McCarthy Elizabeth , Dunn Jillian , Augustine Kaylee , Connaughton Victoria P.
Published: September 2022

The present study induced prolonged hyperglycemia (a hallmark symptom of Type 2 diabetes [T2DM]) in Danio rerio (zebrafish) for eight or twelve weeks. The goal of this research was to study cognitive decline as well as vision loss in hyperglycemic zebrafish. Fish were submerged in glucose for eight or twelve weeks, after which they were assessed with both a cognitive assay (three-chamber choice) and a visual assay (optomotor response (OMR)). Zebrafish were also studied during recovery from hyperglycemia. Here, fish were removed from the hyperglycemic environment for 4 weeks after either 4 or 8 weeks in glucose, and cognition and vision was again assessed. The 8- and 12-week cognitive results revealed that water-treated fish showed evidence of learning while glucose- and mannitol-treated fish did not within the three-day testing period. OMR results identified an osmotic effect with glucose-treated fish having significantly fewer positive rotations than water-treated fish but comparable rotations to mannitol-treated fish. The 8- and 12-week recovery results showed that 4 weeks was not enough time to fully recovery from the hyperglycemic insult sustained.
Antiviral Activity of N1,N3-Disubstituted Uracil Derivatives against SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern
Authors: Siniavin Andrei E. , Novikov Mikhail S. , Gushchin Vladimir A. , Terechov Alexander A. , Ivanov Igor A. , Paramonova Maria P. , Gureeva Elena S. , Russu Leonid I. , Kuznetsova Nadezhda A. , Shidlovskaya Elena V. , Luyksaar Sergei I. , Vasina Daria V. , Zolotov Sergei A. , Zigangirova Nailya A. , Logunov Denis Y. , Gintsburg Alexander L.
Published: September 2022

Despite the widespread use of the COVID-19 vaccines, the search for effective antiviral drugs for the treatment of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 is still relevant. Genetic variability leads to the continued circulation of new variants of concern (VOC). There is a significant decrease in the effectiveness of antibody-based therapy, which raises concerns about the development of new antiviral drugs with a high spectrum of activity against VOCs. We synthesized new analogs of uracil derivatives where uracil was substituted at the N1 and N3 positions. Antiviral activity was studied in Vero E6 cells against VOC, including currently widely circulating SARS-CoV-2 Omicron. All synthesized compounds of the panel showed a wide antiviral effect. In addition, we determined that these compounds inhibit the activity of recombinant SARS-CoV-2 RdRp. Our study suggests that these non-nucleoside uracil-based analogs may be of future use as a treatment for patients infected with circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Distress-Mediated Remodeling of Cardiac Connexin-43 in a Novel Cell Model for Arrhythmogenic Heart Diseases
Authors: Wahl Carl-Mattheis , Schmidt Constanze , Hecker Markus , Ullrich Nina D.
Published: September 2022

Gap junctions and their expression pattern are essential to robust function of intercellular communication and electrical propagation in cardiomyocytes. In healthy myocytes, the main cardiac gap junction protein connexin-43 (Cx43) is located at the intercalated disc providing a clear direction of signal spreading across the cardiac tissue. Dislocation of Cx43 to lateral membranes has been detected in numerous cardiac diseases leading to slowed conduction and high propensity for the development of arrhythmias. At the cellular level, arrhythmogenic diseases are associated with elevated levels of oxidative distress and gap junction remodeling affecting especially the amount and sarcolemmal distribution of Cx43 expression. So far, a mechanistic link between sustained oxidative distress and altered Cx43 expression has not yet been identified. Here, we propose a novel cell model based on murine induced-pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes to investigate subcellular signaling pathways linking cardiomyocyte distress with gap junction remodeling. We tested the new hypothesis that chronic distress, induced by rapid pacing, leads to increased reactive oxygen species, which promotes expression of a micro-RNA, miR-1, specific for the control of Cx43. Our data demonstrate that Cx43 expression is highly sensitive to oxidative distress, leading to reduced expression. This effect can be efficiently prevented by the glutathione peroxidase mimetic ebselen. Moreover, Cx43 expression is tightly regulated by miR-1, which is activated by tachypacing-induced oxidative distress. In light of the high arrhythmogenic potential of altered Cx43 expression, we propose miR-1 as a novel target for pharmacological interventions to prevent the maladaptive remodeling processes during chronic distress in the heart.
CRISPR-Based Genome Editing and Its Applications in Woody Plants
Authors: Min Tian , Hwarari Delight , Li Dong’ao , Movahedi Ali , Yang Liming
Published: September 2022

CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing technology provides straightforward, proficient, and multifunctional ways for the site-directed modification of organism genomes and genes. The application of CRISPR-based technology in plants has a vast potential value in gene function research, germplasm innovation, and genetic improvement. The complexity of woody plants genome may pose significant challenges in the application and expansion of various new editing techniques, such as Cas9, 12, 13, and 14 effectors, base editing, particularly for timberland species with a long life span, huge genome, and ploidy. Therefore, many novel optimisms have been drawn to molecular breeding research based on woody plants. This review summarizes the recent development of CRISPR/Cas applications for essential traits, including wood properties, flowering, biological stress, abiotic stress, growth, and development in woody plants. We outlined the current problems and future development trends of this technology in germplasm and the improvement of products in woody plants.
DNA Motifs and an Accessory CRISPR Factor Determine Cas1 Binding and Integration Activity in Sulfolobus islandicus
Authors: Liu Tao , Xu Ying , Wang Xiaojie , Ye Qing , Liu Zhenzhen , Zhang Zhufeng , Liu Jilin , Yang Yudong , Peng Xu , Peng Nan
Published: September 2022

CRISPR-Cas systems empower prokaryotes with adaptive immunity against invasive mobile genetic elements. At the first step of CRISPR immunity adaptation, short DNA fragments from the invaders are integrated into CRISPR arrays at the leader-proximal end. To date, the mechanism of recognition of the leader-proximal end remains largely unknown. Here, in the Sulfolobus islandicus subtype I-A system, we show that mutations destroying the proximal region reduce CRISPR adaptation in vivo. We identify that a stem-loop structure is present on the leader-proximal end, and we demonstrate that Cas1 preferentially binds the stem-loop structure in vitro. Moreover, we demonstrate that the integrase activity of Cas1 is modulated by interacting with a CRISPR-associated factor Csa3a. When translocated to the CRISPR array, the Csa3a-Cas1 complex is separated by Csa3a binding to the leader-distal motif and Cas1 binding to the leader-proximal end. Mutation at the leader-distal motif reduces CRISPR adaptation efficiency, further confirming the in vivo function of leader-distal motif. Together, our results suggest a general model for binding of Cas1 protein to a leader motif and modulation of integrase activity by an accessory factor.
Systemic Beta-Hydroxybutyrate Affects BDNF and Autophagy into the Retina of Diabetic Mice
Authors: Trotta Maria Consiglia , Gesualdo Carlo , Herman Hildegard , Gharbia Sami , Balta Cornel , Lepre Caterina Claudia , Russo Marina , Itro Annalisa , D’Amico Giovanbattista , Peluso Luisa , Panarese Iacopo , Pieretti Gorizio , Ferraro Giuseppe , Simonelli Francesca , D’Amico Michele , Rossi Settimio , Hermenean Anca
Published: September 2022

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a neurovascular disease, characterized by a deficiency of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a regulator of autophagy. Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), previously reported as a protective agent in DR, has been associated with BDNF promotion. Here, we investigated whether systemic BHB affects the retinal levels of BDNF and local autophagy in diabetic mice with retinopathy; Methods: C57BL/6J mice were administered with intraperitoneal (i.p.) streptozotocin (STZ) (75 mg/kg) injection to develop diabetes. After 2 weeks, they received i.p. injections of BHB (25–50–100 mg/kg) twice a week for 10 weeks. Retinal samples were collected in order to perform immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and ELISA analysis; Results: BHB 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg significantly improved retinal BDNF levels (p < 0.01) in diabetic mice. This improvement was negatively associated with autophagosome–lysosome formations (marked by LC3B and ATG14) and to higher levels of connexin 43 (p < 0.01), a marker of cell integrity. Moreover, BHB administration significantly reduced M1 microglial activation and autophagy (p < 0.01); Conclusions: The systemic administration of BHB in mice with DR improves the retinal levels of BDNF, with the consequent reduction of the abnormal microglial autophagy. This leads to retinal cell safety through connexin 43 restoration.
Quantitative Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer Imaging of Amide Proton Transfer Differentiates between Cerebellopontine Angle Schwannoma and Meningioma: Preliminary Results
Authors: Koike Hirofumi , Morikawa Minoru , Ishimaru Hideki , Ideguchi Reiko , Uetani Masataka , Hiu Takeshi , Matsuo Takayuki , Miyoshi Mitsuharu
Published: September 2022

Vestibular schwannomas are the most common tumor at the common cerebellopontine angle, followed by meningiomas. Differentiation of these tumors is critical because of the different surgical approaches required for treatment. Recent studies have demonstrated the utility of amide proton transfer (APT)-chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging in evaluating malignant brain tumors. However, APT imaging has not been applied in benign tumors. Here, we explored the potential of APT in differentiating between schwannomas and meningiomas at the cerebellopontine angle. We retrospectively evaluated nine patients with schwannoma and nine patients with meningioma who underwent APT-CEST MRI from November 2020 to April 2022 pre-operation. All 18 tumors were histologically diagnosed. There was a significant difference in magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTRasym) values (0.033 ± 0.012 vs. 0.021 ± 0.004; p = 0.007) between the schwannoma and meningioma groups. Receiver operative curve analysis showed that MTRasym values clearly differentiated between the schwannoma and meningioma groups. At an MTRasym value threshold of 0.024, the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values for MTRasym were 88.9%, 77.8%, 80.0%, and 87.5%, respectively. Our results demonstrated the ability of MTRasym values on APT-CEST imaging to discriminate patients with schwannomas from patients with meningiomas.
Advantage of Dimethyl Sulfoxide in the Fabrication of Binder-Free Layered Double Hydroxides Electrodes: Impacts of Physical Parameters on the Crystalline Domain and Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Nyongombe Gayi , Kabongo Guy L. , Noto Luyanda L. , Dhlamini Mokhotjwa S.
Published: September 2022

The electrode fabrication stage is a crucial step in the design of supercapacitors. The latter involves the binder generally for adhesive purposes. The binder is electrochemically dormant and has weak interactions, leading to isolating the active material and conductive additive and then compromising the electrochemical performance. Designing binder-free electrodes is a practical way to improve the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors. However, most of the methods developed for the fabrication of binder-free LDH electrodes do not accommodate LDH materials prepared via the co-precipitation or ions exchange routes. Herein, we developed a novel method to fabricate binder-free LDH electrodes which accommodates LDH materials from other synthesis routes. The induced impacts of various physical parameters such as the temperature and time applied during the fabrication process on the crystalline domain and electrochemical performances of all the binder-free LDH electrodes were studied. The electrochemical analysis showed that the electrode prepared at 200 °C-1 h exhibited the best electrochemical performance compared to its counterparts. A specific capacitance of 3050.95 Fg−1 at 10 mVs−1 was achieved by it, while its Rct value was 0.68 Ω. Moreover, it retained 97% of capacitance after 5000 cycles at 120 mVs−1. The XRD and FTIR studies demonstrated that its excellent electrochemical performance was due to its crystalline domain which had held an important amount of water than other electrodes. The as-developed method proved to be reliable and advantageous due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Osteogenic Efficacy of Human Trophoblasts-Derived Conditioned Medium on Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Go Yoon-Young , Lee Chan-Mi , Chae Sung-Won , Song Jae-Jun
Published: September 2022

Trophoblasts play an important role in the regulation of the development and function of the placenta. Our recent study demonstrated the skin regeneration capacity of trophoblast-derived extracellular vesicles (EV). Here, we aimed to determine the potential of trophoblast-derived conditioned medium (TB-CM) in enhancing the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). We found that TB-CM promoted the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, it inhibited adipogenesis of MSCs. We also found that the primary trophoblast-derived conditioned medium (PTB-CM) significantly enhanced the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human MSCs. Our study demonstrated the regulatory mechanisms underlying the TB-CM-induced osteogenesis in MSCs. An upregulation of genes associated with cytokines/chemokines was observed. The treatment of MSCs with TB-CM stimulated osteogenesis by activating several biological processes, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) signaling. This study demonstrated the proliferative and osteogenic efficacies of the trophoblast-derived secretomes, suggesting their potential for use in clinical interventions for bone regeneration and treatment.
Protecting Private Information for Two Classes of Aggregated Database Queries
Authors: Yang Xuechao , Yi Xun , Kelarev Andrei , Rylands Leanne , Lin Yuqing , Ryan Joe
Published: September 2022

An important direction of informatics is devoted to the protection of privacy of confidential information while providing answers to aggregated queries that can be used for analysis of data. Protecting privacy is especially important when aggregated queries are used to combine personal information stored in several databases that belong to different owners or come from different sources. Malicious attackers may be able to infer confidential information even from aggregated numerical values returned as answers to queries over large collections of data. Formal proofs of security guarantees are important, because they can be used for implementing practical systems protecting privacy and providing answers to aggregated queries. The investigation of formal conditions which guarantee protection of private information against inference attacks originates from a fundamental result obtained by Chin and Ozsoyoglu in 1982 for linear queries. The present paper solves similar problems for two new classes of aggregated nonlinear queries. We obtain complete descriptions of conditions, which guarantee the protection of privacy of confidential information against certain possible inference attacks, if a collection of queries of this type are answered. Rigorous formal security proofs are given which guarantee that the conditions obtained ensure the preservation of privacy of confidential data. In addition, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for the protection of confidential information from special inference attacks aimed at achieving a group compromise.
Analysis of the Optical Response of Opaque Urban Envelope Materials: The Case of Madrid
Authors: Pérez Gloria , Martín-Consuegra Fernando , de Frutos Fernando , Martínez Arturo , Oteiza Ignacio , Frutos Borja , Alonso Carmen
Published: September 2022

The optical response of opaque materials in an urban envelope plays an important role in a city’s energy exchange with the environment as it defines the absorption of radiation and emission of heat. In the present work, the most common surfaces of the finishing materials of pavement and walls in the city of Madrid (Spain) were identified, and their reflectance was measured in situ to determine their solar absorptance and color coordinates. Most of the selected pavement showed a relatively high solar absorptance in the range of 0.87 to 0.60, while in vertical surfaces, the range was 0.85 to 0.29. The variations of the color coordinates obtained for pavement were 27.1, 11.4, and 6.7 for ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb*, respectively. Significantly higher values were obtained in the case of vertical surfaces (47.5, 20.5, and 23.6, respectively). The results were included into a database intended to be the seed for a catalogue of the experimental thermo-optical properties of opaque envelope materials in Madrid. The catalogue will be useful for the analysis of the stimuli generated by the urban environment for citizens and for achieving more reliable results from energy simulation tools in the search for strategies to improve urban comfort and sustainability.
Examination of athletes' anxiety about catching coronavirus
Authors: Sarikol Eyüp , Ustaoğlu-Hoşver Pelin
Published: September 2022

The coronavirus epidemic affected not only China but also several countries in the world. The survey aims to analyze the concerns of athletes about contracting Covid-19. The sample of the study consists of 293 volunteer participants living in Iğdır province and doing sports in different branches. This research is in the scanning model and has a descriptive nature. The data were collected through the 'personal information form' to define the demographic data of the participants, and the "Anxiety Scale of Athletes catching New Type Coronavirus (Covid-19)". Given the results, the athletes are worried about catching the coronavirus, but lack of statistically significant results in the relationship of the variables used in the research with the anxiety of contracting the coronavirus, the geographical region where the athletes live, the supervision of the measures taken within the scope of the coronavirus can be considered as the psychological consequences of the social environment.
Utilization of Augmented Reality Technology as an Interactive Learning Media
Authors:   Departemen Sistem Informasi, Universitas Komputer Indonesia, Indonesia, Qatrunada Muhammad Iqbal , Harasta Muhammad Fadhlih Sephia , Tosofu Ismail
Published: September 2022

This study discusses the use of augmented reality technology as an interactive learning medium. Innovative learning media at this time have a very important role in terms of improving the quality of learning. The main point in the use of information and communication technology, especially on mobile devices such as smartphones and android tablets which of course have camera features so that they can run augmented reality (AR) application technology. The purpose of this study was to analyze how the use of augmented reality technology in education midwives as an interactive learning medium that can support the learning process of students. This study uses qualitative research methods using data collection techniques through literature studies or commonly known as library research. In the research the results obtained are analytical descriptive because this research is a qualitative research. The results of this study are the application of information and communication technology in the form of augmented reality applications in the field of education as a learning medium that can help students in facilitating learning and creating a pleasant learning atmosphere.
The Importance of Building Design and Its Contribution to Human Health
Authors:   Departemen Teknik Arsitektur, Universitas Komputer Indonesia, Indonesia, Khusaini Alif , Pradana Mohammad Arziz Raka , Kusmayandi Dandi
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this research is to find out how important it is for a building that has a healthy building approach or concept that will have a positive impact on the users of the building itself. To support the research, we use the method of collecting data from several journals found related to the research title. The results of this study indicate that every design of a building must pay attention to the element of thermal comfort from each room, the concept of healing environment, pay attention to the use of materials, and must also apply the concept of sustainable architecture. In this study, things that must be considered are what the concept of thermal comfort is good for the health of the building users themselves, the concept of healing environment, the use of materials, and also the concept of sustainable architecture. It can be concluded that the building is said to be healthy if all the discussion criteria can be implemented properly. Users of the building itself, of course, not only feel the comfort of the building that is used, but can indirectly have a positive impact on the health of the users themselves, and can also survive in a fairly long period of time.
La vaccination contre la peste porcine au moyen d'émulsions organiques avirulentes
Authors: Jacotot Henri
Published: September 2022

Le pouvoir immunigène des émulsions de parenchymes employées comme vaccin contre la peste porcine est notablement renforcé par l’addition de latex d’«Hévéa brasiliensis» dans la proportion de 1 gramme de latex pour 10 grammes de pulpe tissulaire ; cet adjuvant colloïdal doit être stabilisé dans l’état de pré-floculation ; le borate de soude ajouté au latex dans la proportion de 1 pour 10 répond à cette indication. Le vaccin renforcé et tamponné stimule l’immunité dans une mesure telle que, à dose déterminée, il préserve deux fois plus de sujets ou presque que le vaccin non renforcé, contre l’inoculation du virus à dose mortelle.
A Meta-Analysis and Cohort Study of Histopathologic and Clinical Outcomes in ANCA-Negative versus -Positive Vasculitis
Authors: Floyd Lauren , Morris Adam D. , Elsayed Mohamed E. , Shetty Anamay , Baksi Ananya , Geetha Duvuru , Dhaygude Ajay , Mitra Sandip
Published: September 2022

Key Points

ANCA-negative pauci-immune glomerulonephritis presents in younger patients, with fewer extrarenal manifestations and higher risk of ESKD.

The absence of positive ANCA serology should not discourage immunosuppressive treatment.

Further research into the pathogenesis, treatment response, and duration of immunotherapy in ANCA-negative disease is needed.

Background

ANCA-negative pauci-immune glomerulonephritis (PIGN) represents a rare and often under-studied subgroup of the vasculitides. This study aims to investigate differences in the clinical phenotype, renal histological features, and clinical outcomes of patients with PIGN, with and without serum ANCA positivity.

Methods

A cohort of biopsy-proven PIGN with and without detectable circulating ANCA was constructed from a single center between 2006 and 2016. Primary outcomes compared clinical presentation and histopathological features according to ANCA status, with multivariate Cox regression to compare mortality and ESKD. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the published literature was undertaken.

Results

In our cohort of 146 patients, 22% (n=32) had ANCA-negative disease, with a comparatively younger mean age at diagnosis; 51.4 versus 65.6 years (P<0.001). In total, 14 studies, inclusive of our cohort, were eligible for meta-analysis, totaling 301 patients who were ANCA negative. Those with ANCA-negative disease tended to have fewer extrarenal symptoms and a higher frequency of renal-limited disease, but both failed to reach statistical significance (P=0.92 and P=0.07). The risk of ESKD was significantly higher in seronegative disease (RR, 2.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.42 to 3.65; P<0.001), reflecting our experience, with a fivefold increased risk of ESKD in ANCA-negative disease (P<0.001). No significant difference in the chronicity of histopathological findings was seen and the meta-analysis showed no difference in morality (RR, 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 0.63 to 2.38; P=0.55).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that ANCA-negative PIGN presents in younger patients, with fewer extrarenal manifestations and higher ESKD risk, despite a lack of difference in histopathology. This study provides the impetus for further research into the pathogenesis, treatment response, and duration of immunotherapy in ANCA-negative disease. We suggest that the absence of positive ANCA serology should not discourage treatment and for clinical trials to include patients who are ANCA negative.
Dinamização no ensino de ciências por práticas experimentais
Authors: Alves André Luíz , Segatto Breno Rodrigues , Pessoa Márcio Solino , Moscon Paulo Sérgio , Bento Sérgio Souza , Loyola Gustavo Viali
Published: September 2022

A proposta deste trabalho é estimular o aprendizado em física de alunos do ensino médio e despertar os seus interesses pela área de pesquisa em ciências físicas. Eles são orientados por professores e monitores a construir experimentos de física, usando ferramentas adequadas. Esta prática extracurricular os ajudam a compreender a importância que os fenômenos físicos associados aos experimentos apresentam no mundo moderno e, em seus cotidianos. Desta prática, foi observado que a abordagem de conteúdos pela experimentação torna a aula de física mais dinâmica. Neste caso, o aluno monitor teve um papel fundamental, onde o mesmo participou efetivamente das discussões dos conteúdos. O aluno monitor foi instigado a entender os fenômenos físicos que envolvem a experiência. Com este trabalho vemos indicações de que é possível despertar a curiosidade pelo aprendizado e traçar metas que superam as formas tradicionais usadas em sala. Este trabalho faz parte de um projeto desenvolvido entre a Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), juntamente com a Fundação de Amparo a Pesquisa e Inovação do Espírito Santo (FAPES). O mesmo é desenvolvido com dez alunos da segunda série do ensino médio de uma escola pública, localizado no município de Sooretama norte do ES. Nesta região, há um grande índice de evasão escolar, sendo uma das metas diminuir este índice. Portanto, será relatado como a construção de experimentos ajudou no aprendizado, na interação entre professor e aluno, na busca pela pesquisa e na permanência dos alunos na escola em questão.
A alma ferida e a justiça restaurativa - a infração e a punição de adolescentes sob olhar da Psicologia Junguiana
Authors: De Souza Cristiane Bergmann
Published: September 2022

O presente artigo apresenta uma reflexão sobre a infração e a punição de adolescentes, levando em consideração o entrelaçamento de duas áreas das ciências humanas: a Psicologia e o Direito. A Psicologia, com base na teoria de Carl Gustav Jung, abordando algumas perspectivas de compreensão envolvendo aspectos da mitologia, das simbologias da água e do fogo, dos arquétipos da Grande Mãe e da Criança Divina, do ciclo vital, do processo de individuação. E por outro lado, o Direito, integrando a Justiça Restaurativa com a percepção de que as pessoas e as relações são as vítimas, busca a mediação e o entendimento das partes envolvidas na infração, a responsabilidade e a punição da infração e, por consequência, a cura das relações entre a vítima e o infrator.