bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Highly Digestible Fermented Corn Protein Powder in Fecal Low-Odor Adult Dog Feed
Authors: Liu Ji , Liu Ling , Sun Huaxin , Ma Minghui , Wang Wei , Ren Jian
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to develop fecal low-odor adult dog feed using processed corn protein powder as the primary raw material and evaluate its effectiveness through feeding experiments. The objectives included analyzing the fundamental nutritional indicators, comparing the quality of fecal low-odor adult dog feed with commercially available dog feed, and assessing the changes in the eating behavior, physical condition, and physiological and biochemical indicators before and after feeding on the fecal low-odor adult dog feed. This study involved formulating dog feed using processed fermented corn protein powder and conducting nutritional analyses to compare moisture, crude protein, ash, crude fat, and starch contents. Physical properties such as hardness and cohesion were also evaluated. Feeding experiments were conducted with adult dogs to monitor the changes in the eating behavior and physical condition. Physiological and biochemical indicators, including ammoniacal nitrogen and putrefactive odor in feces, were measured both before and after feeding to assess the impact of the fecal low-odor adult dog feed. The analysis showed no significant difference in moisture (p > 0.05), crude protein (p > 0.05), ash (p > 0.05), crude fat (p > 0.05), and starch (p > 0.05) contents between the fecal low-odor adult dog feed and commercially available dog feed. Similarly, no significant difference was noted in the hardness (p > 0.05) and cohesion (p > 0.05) between the two types of dog feed. Both types of dog feed contained rich volatile compounds with varying compositions. The commercially available dog feed had a sour odor, whereas the fecal low-odor adult dog feed had a barbecue and resin-like smell. After feeding with the fecal low-odor adult dog feed, the liquid nitrogen content significantly decreased (p < 0.01). Also, the indole content, a major contributor to fecal odor, based on the data, decreased after feeding.
Numerical Study of Laminar Flow and Vortex-Induced Vibration on Cylinder Subjects to Free and Forced Oscillation at Low Reynolds Numbers
Authors: Al Manthari M. S. , Azeez Carlton , Sankar M. , Pushpa B. V.
Published: July 2024

In this study, we aimed to numerically investigate the 2D laminar flow over a cylindrical body and performed vortex-induced vibration analyses on a circular cylinder of unit radius placed in a channel, with the cylinder assumed to be fixed. The cases of a cylinder under forced oscillation and three different scenarios of a freely oscillating cylinder were analyzed. The fluid domain dynamics were governed by the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations; however, the structural field was described using nonlinear elastodynamic equations. Fluid and solid domains were discretized with the finite volume method (FVM) in space and time. Predictions of hydrodynamic forces, namely lift and drag terms, were determined for each scenario. An increase in the Reynolds number caused an exponential increment in the lift force. In the case of a stabilized flow, the collective decrease in stiffness and damping decreased the maximal drag and lift factors. Furthermore, it was noticed that the lift factor was minimally altered by variations in damping and stiffness in comparison with the change in the drag factor. From these observations, it appears that the lift factor probably correlates with the cylinder’s structure and fluid properties.
Lipid Quality Changes in French Fries, Chicken Croquettes, and Chicken Nuggets Fried with High-Linoleic and High-Oleic Sunflower Oils in Domestic Deep Fryers
Authors: Ruiz-Méndez María-Victoria , Velasco Joaquín , Lastrucci Adriana Salud , Márquez-Ruiz Gloria
Published: July 2024

The quality of fried products greatly depends on the changes occurring during frying. The purpose of this work was to study the lipid quality changes taking place in selected frozen foods after domestic deep-frying. Conventional, high-linoleic sunflower oil (HLSO) and high-oleic sunflower oil (HOSO) were used, and the frozen foods selected were French fries, croquettes, and nuggets. The foods were fried in domestic fryers under discontinuous conditions. Analyses included fatty acid composition, sterols, tocopherols, squalene, and lipid alteration levels. In all fried foods, the content of lipids increased after frying, which is consistent with previous findings. However, the lipid exchange between the food and the oil greatly depended on the food characteristics. Specifically, the levels of frying oil in the food lipids were about 90, 40, and 58% for French fries, croquettes, and nuggets, respectively. The main results obtained showed that lipid alteration levels considerably decreased and amounts of sterols and tocopherols significantly increased in French fries’ lipids after frying. In both chicken products, croquettes and nuggets, the best quality improvement observed was a significant decrease in cholesterol in food lipids due to the lipid exchange. Overall, frying with HLSO and HOSO improved the quality and nutritional properties of all products tested.
Effects of Cactus Polysaccharide on Pasting, Rheology, Structural Properties, In Vitro Digestibility, and Freeze–Thaw Stability of Rice Starch
Authors: Zhu Yahui , Dong Chuang , Chi Fumin , Gu Xuedong , Liu Lei , Yang Lin
Published: July 2024

This study combined rice starch (RS) with cactus polysaccharide (CP) at different composites (0.6%, 1.2%, 1.8%, 2.4%, and 3.0%, w/w), and analyzed the variations in the complex gelatinization properties, rheological properties, thermal properties, structural properties, digestibility, and freeze–thaw stability. As a result, the pasting parameters (p < 0.05) and storage modulus (G′) together with the loss modulus (G″) decreased as the CP concentration increased; meanwhile, the RS and the CP–RS gels were pseudoplastic fluids. As revealed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), incorporating CP into the starch elevated the starch gelatinization temperature while decreasing gelatinization enthalpy, revealing that CP effectively retarded long-term retrogradation in RS. The gel microstructure and crystallization type altered after adding CP. Typically, CP inclusion could enhance the proportion of resistant starch and slowly digestible starch (SDS), thereby slowing RS hydrolysis. Concurrently, adding CP promoted the RS freeze–thaw stability. These findings could potentially aid in the innovation of CP-based food products.
Adaptive Synchronization of Fractional-Order Uncertain Complex-Valued Competitive Neural Networks under the Non-Decomposition Method
Authors: Chen Shenglong , Luo Xupeng , Yang Jikai , Li Zhiming , Li Hongli
Published: July 2024

This paper is devoted to the study of adaptive synchronization for fractional-order uncertain complex-valued competitive neural networks (FOUCVCNNs) using the non-decomposition method. Firstly, a new network model named FOUCVCNNs is proposed, which is not separated into two real-valued subsystems in order to keep its intrinsic speciality. In addition, a novel adaptive controller is designed to reduce the cost of control. Meanwhile, with the help of fractional Lyapunov theory, 1-norm analysis framework and inequality techniques, several effective synchronization criteria for FOUCVCNNs are obtained by constructing an appropriate Lyapunov function. Finally, the reliability of the results obtained is tested through numerical simulation.
On Hurwicz Preferences in Psychological Games
Authors: De Marco Giuseppe , Romaniello Maria , Roviello Alba
Published: July 2024

The literature on strategic ambiguity in classical games provides generalized notions of equilibrium in which each player best responds to ambiguous or imprecise beliefs about his opponents’ strategic choices. In a recent paper, strategic ambiguity has been extended to psychological games, by taking into account ambiguous hierarchies of beliefs and max–min preferences. Given that this kind of preference seems too restrictive as a general method to evaluate decisions, in this paper we extend the analysis by taking into account α-max–min preferences in which decisions are evaluated by a convex combination of the worst-case (with weight α) and the best-case (with weight 1−α) scenarios. We define the α-max–min psychological Nash equilibrium; an illustrative example shows that the set of equilibria is affected by the parameter α and the larger the ambiguity, the greater the effect. We also provide a result of stability of the equilibria with respect to perturbations that involve the attitudes toward ambiguity, the structure of ambiguity, and the payoff functions: converging sequences of equilibria of perturbed games converge to equilibria of the unperturbed game as the perturbation vanishes. Surprisingly, a final example shows that the existence of equilibria is not guaranteed for every value of α.
Successful Intraosseous (IO) Adenosine Administration for the Termination of Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) in a 3.5-Year-Old Child—Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zachaj Jakub , Kręglicki Łukasz , Sikora Tomasz , Moorthi Katarzyna , Jaśkiewicz Filip , Nadolny Klaudiusz , Gałązkowski Robert
Published: July 2024

Paediatric supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a common arrhythmia of great clinical significance. If not treated promptly, it can cause heart failure and cardiogenic shock. Depending on the patient’s condition, SVT treatment involves vagal manoeuvres, pharmacological, or direct current cardioversion. The goal of acute SVT management is to immediately convert SVT to a normal sinus rhythm (NSR) and prevent its recurrence. Adenosine is recommended as the first-line treatment for stable SVT by the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) and American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines, when vagal manoeuvres have proven ineffective. The ERC and AHA guidelines recommend the intravenous route of administration. The intraosseous (IO) administration technique is also possible, but still relatively unknown. The aim of this paper is to describe a 3.5-year-old child with SVT that was converted to NSR following IO administration of adenosine. Successful conversion was achieved after the second attempt with the adenosine dose. In the described case, there was no recurrence of SVT.
Physical Activity and Perceived Support among Adolescents According to Sex and Municipality
Authors: Sanz-Martín Daniel , Ruiz-Tendero Germán , Alonso-Vargas José Manuel , Melguizo-Ibáñez Eduardo
Published: July 2024

A cross-sectional study was conducted with three aims: (1) to determine the degree of compliance with physical activity recommendations among adolescents according to sex and place of residence, (2) to determine the perceived support of family and friends for physical activity among adolescents according to sex and place of residence, and (3) to analyse the influence of family and friends support on compliance with physical activity recommendations among adolescents according to sex and place of residence. A total of 694 adolescents from an inland area of Spain (14.06 ± 1.27 years) participated. Four one-day physical activity questionnaires were administered to assess physical activity and the Parental Support Scale and Peer Support to measure perceived support from family and friends regarding physical activity. Chi-square, Crammer’s V and Student’s tests were calculated to identify differences between variables according to sex and municipality of residence. Moreover, the initial binary logistic regression model was constructed to predict the physical activity compliance. Differences in adherence to physical activity recommendations were found according to the sex of the students (rural area: x2 = 4.192, p < 0.05; V = 0.106, p < 0.05; urban area: x2 = 8.999, p < 0.05; V = 0.167, p < 0.01). There were also sex differences in rural areas on items related to families providing transport (t = 3.878, p ≤ 0.001; d = 0.40) and doing physical activity together (t = 4.974, p ≤ 0.001; d = 0.50). It is concluded that most adolescents do not comply with physical activity recommendations. In addition, 30.4% of urban girls’ compliance was predicted by the perception that their family members saw them doing physical activity and doing it with friends.
Effect of Different Fertigation Scheduling Methods on the Yields and Photosynthetic Parameters of Drip-Fertigated Chinese Chive (Allium tuberosum) Grown in a Horticultural Greenhouse
Authors: Nomura Koichi , Wada Eriko , Saito Masahiko , Itokawa Shuji , Mizobuchi Keisuke , Yamasaki Hiromi , Tada Ikunao , Iwao Tadashige , Yamazaki Tomihiro , Kitano Masaharu
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the performance of four different fertigation scheduling methods in greenhouse-grown, drip-fertigated Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum) cultivation. These methods were based on (1) the use of a timer (control), (2) accumulated radiation (AR), (3) estimated evapotranspiration (ET), and (4) measured soil moisture (SM), with fertilizer application proportional to the supplied water. These methods caused considerable variations in the amount of fertigation water (I), soil volumetric water content (θ), and bulk soil electrical conductivity, leading to variations in the harvested fresh weight (FW). The SM-based method maintained the target θ and achieved the highest irrigation water productivity (WP; the ratio of FW to ΣI), while the ET-based method led to insufficient I and FW loss. The AR-based method over-fertigated, but no FW loss was observed. Compared to the WP of the control, those of the SM-, ET-, and AR-based methods varied by +1%, −14%, and −57%, respectively. Different fertigation methods did not significantly affect leaf photosynthetic capacity, but under-fertigation caused a significant decline in stomatal conductance. Compared to the ET- and AR-based methods, the SM-based method seemed to have a lower risk of under-/over-fertigation because I in the SM-based method could be adjusted according to θ.
Adding Phyto-LED Spectrum to White-LED Light Increases the Productivity of Lettuce Plants
Authors: Vereshchagin Mikhail , Pashkovskiy Pavel , Tarakanov Ivan
Published: July 2024

The effect of light of various spectral compositions on the complex morphophysiological parameters of lettuce plants in hydroponic was studied. The light sources had the following light spectra: warm white light—2700 K, cold white light—6500 K, and Phyto-LED light, as well as 2700 K + Phyto-LED and 6500 K + Phyto-LED. The dry and fresh biomass, leaf area, stem length, photosynthetic pigment content, photosynthesis and transpiration rates, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and percentage of plants that passed into the generative stage of development were studied. The results showed that partial and complete replacement of white LEDs by Phyto-LEDs with lower green light content and greater amounts of far-red light in the radiation spectrum caused an increase in plant productivity of 37%, average leaf area, and transpiration rate in the treatments but also promoted an earlier transition of plants to flowering under light treatment, Phyto-LEDs, and Phyto-LEDs + white LEDs. The 2700 K + Phyto-LED treatment had one of the highest productivities, as did the Phyto-LED and 6500 K + Phyto-LED treatments, but this lighting treatment provoked less flowering on the 60th day of the growing period.
Genome and Transcriptome Analysis of NF-Y Transcription Factors in Sweet Potato under Salt Stress
Authors: Liang Bei , Wu Jiayun , Chen Ye , Wang Bei , Gao Feiyan , Li Yongping , Zhu Guopeng
Published: July 2024

Nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) is a heterotrimeric complex composed of three unique subunits: NF-YA, NF-YB, and NF-YC. This transcription factor complex binds to the CCAAT box of eukaryotic promoters, playing a crucial role in various biological processes in plants. Despite its importance, the NF-Y gene family has not been reported in the sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) genome, an important food and energy crop. Understanding the role and function of NF-Y in sweet potatoes could provide valuable insights for genetic improvement and yield enhancement. To address this gap, our research aimed to comprehensively catalog and characterize the NF-Y genes in sweet potatoes, which we refer to as ‘IbNF-Y’, where ‘Ib’ denotes Ipomoea batatas. A total of 37 NF-Ys were identified, including 11 NF-YA, 21 NF-YB, and 5 NF-YC members, and their phylogeny, gene structure, chromosomal distribution, and conserved motifs were analyzed. Additionally, we assessed their expression patterns under salt stress in both light and dark conditions using transcriptome sequencing. Notably, we discovered that certain IbNF-Y genes showed significant changes in expression under salt stress, suggesting their potential roles in sweet potato’s adaptation to saline environments. Furthermore, our work enriches the genomics and genetic research on sweet potatoes and contributes valuable knowledge to the broader scientific community of the Convolvulaceae family.
Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis of Unique Floral Coloration in Osmanthus fragrans Cultivars
Authors: Wei Shenni , Wu Jiang , Yu Ping , Tan Yunfei , He Qiang , Yang Jie , Cai Xuan , Zou Jingjing , Chen Hongguo , Zeng Xiangling
Published: July 2024

The floral color phenotypes of Osmanthus fragrans cultivars range from light yellow to orange yellow, with ‘Yanzhi Hong’ being the only reported cultivar with a red color. However, the underlying reason for this unique floral coloration remains unclear. The study conducted targeted metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses on the petals of ‘Yanzhi Hong’ at both initial and peak flowering stages. Candidate gene expression was validated, and expression levels of the petals of three cultivars were compared using RT-qPCR. The results revealed the presence of 27 components in the petals of ‘Yanzhi Hong’, including 5 carotenoids, 8 xanthophylls, and 14 xanthophyll esters. Notably, lycopene was detected in abundance for the first time in O. fragrans cultivars. Carotenes accounted for 78.82 ± 3.17% and 91.19 ± 1.69% of the total carotenoid content in petals during the initial and peak flowering stages, respectively, with all carotene contents increasing during the peak flowering period. β-carotene, lycopene, and γ-carotene were identified as the top three carotene components in petals during both initial and full flowering stages. The unique blush red color of ‘Yanzhi Hong’ petals could be attributed to the low content of α-carotene and the rich accumulation of lycopene. Furthermore, a total of 1550 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in petals at the peak flowering stage relative to the initial flowering stage, with 1003 genes being downregulated and 547 genes being upregulated during the full flowering stage. There are 926 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) annotated in the Gene Ontology (GO) database. Among these DEGs, those that were downregulated and upregulated during the peak flowering period showed significant enrichment in carbohydrate metabolism and oxidation–reduction processes, respectively. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis identified 14 structural genes associated with phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and 7 structural genes linked to carotenoid biosynthesis. Expression levels of candidate genes involved in carotenoid biosynthesis were examined in the petals of three cultivars (‘Yanzhi Hong’, ‘Liuye Jingui’, and ‘Gecheng Dangui’) at both the initial and peak flowering stages. The results indicated that the decreased expression of LYG009054 (LYCE) and LYG018651 (LYCB) in ‘Yanzhi Hong’ resulted in higher lycopene accumulation and lower α-carotene content in the petals. This study offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the unique flower color phenotype of O. fragrans, proving a basis for further research on carotenoid metabolism pathways and the breeding of new cultivars with a variety of flower colors in O. fragrans.
An Overview of Low-Cost Approaches for the Postharvest Storage of Fruits and Vegetables for Smallholders, Retailers, and Consumers
Authors: Gouda Mohamed Hawali Bata , Duarte-Sierra Arturo
Published: July 2024

Food loss and waste occur throughout the food supply chain and represent food security and environmental, economic, and societal problems. Fresh fruit and vegetables contribute to over 40% of global food loss and waste. A significant portion of fruit and vegetables loss takes place on the farm during postharvest handling in developing countries, which is linked to smallholders’ financial and geographic constraints in purchasing modern postharvest handling technologies. While in developed countries, waste is the main problem identified at the retail and consumption levels because of inadequate logistics management, storage, and consumer behavior. The loss and waste deprive the population of a significant quantity of healthy food. To address this challenge, cost-effective, easy-to-use, and affordable approaches could be supplied to stakeholders. These strategies encompass the utilization of shading, low-cost packaging, porous evaporative cooling, zero-energy cooling chambers, and pot-in-pot coolers, for reductions in loss in developing countries. Meanwhile, in developed countries, biosensors, 1-methylcyclopropene, and imaging processing are employed to assess the quality of fresh fruit and vegetables at both retail and consumer levels. By exploring these methods, the review aims to provide smallholders, retailers, and consumers with efficient methods for improving produce operating techniques, resulting in reduced losses and waste and higher income.
Sexual Violence, Disclosure Pattern, and Abortion and Post-Abortion Care Services in Displaced People’s Camps in Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Adekola Paul O. , Adedini Sunday A.
Published: July 2024

Violent social and political conflicts have caused several challenges to internally displaced persons (IDPs), especially girls and young women, among which is sexual violence (SV). Despite extensive records on SV in humanitarian contexts, studies to assess the level, examine the disclosure pattern (DP) and evaluate the availability of abortion care in these settings have received inadequate attention. This scoping review sought to synthesise the current African-based research on SV, DP, and abortion and post-abortion care (APAC) in humanitarian contexts. We conducted a systematic search of five databases: MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar, where the articles retrieved met the criteria for inclusion. The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP), containing ten questions to help confirm the validity of the research design and the originality of the results in comparison with similar studies. A series of inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied after the search, and 35 eligible articles from ten African countries with evidence of sexual violence, disclosure patterns, and APAC in camp settings were included in the study. Results described situations of SV in humanitarian settings in Africa as “terrible”, “bad”, “an epidemic”, and “severe” as girls were used as sex objects, for profile enhancement and as a weapon of war. We also found that the illegality of APAC in Africa is causing a high occurrence of clandestine abortions in conflict contexts. Disclosing SV among IDPs in Africa did not follow a clear-cut pattern but was generally determined by socio-demographic characteristics. Sexual health is a fundamental right of all, as enshrined in SDG 3, which makes this topic a major public health issue. We therefore conclude that although disclosure may aggravate stigmatisation in some instances due to adverse reactions, it is still crucial to the healing processes.
Housing Price-Vacancy Dynamics—An Empirical Study of the Hong Kong Housing Market
Authors: Yiu Chung Yim , Murray Thomas
Published: July 2024

This study uses time series regression models and dynamic panel models of five-class housing to investigate the dynamics of the housing price-vacancy relationship in Hong Kong, offering insights distinct from previous cross-sectional analyses that take new housing completions as a supply proxy, without considering vacant homes as a source of housing supply. Two major contributions emerge: first, the results support the hypothesis that housing vacancies exert a negative impact on housing prices, holding other factors constant. Second, new builds supply is found to have a positive effect on housing prices, which is in line with many previous studies, but it contradicts the prediction. The results challenge the use of land supply or new housing completions as the proxy of housing supply and put forward a novel suggestion of including vacant homes in the housing price analysis. Advanced approaches to collecting housing vacancy data are also discussed. These findings have significant implications for policymakers, urban planners, and real estate investors, providing valuable insights for crafting targeted interventions and informing investment decisions. This is one of the first time series and dynamic panel analyses of housing vacancy’s effect on prices.
Wogonin Inhibits Apoptosis and Necroptosis Induced by Nephropathogenic Infectious Bronchitis Virus in Chicken Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells
Authors: Qi Qiurong , Li Ying , Ding Mengbing , Huang Cheng , Omar Salma Mbarouk , Shi Yan , Liu Ping , Cai Gaofeng , Zheng Zhanhong , Guo Xiaoquan , Gao Xiaona
Published: July 2024

NIBV is an acute and highly contagious virus that has a major impact on the poultry industry. Wogonin, as a flavonoid drug, has antiviral effects, but there have been no reports indicating its role in renal injury caused by NIBV infection. The aim of this study is to investigate the antiviral effect of wogonin against NIBV. Renal tubular epithelial cells were isolated and cultured, and divided into four groups: Con, Con+Wog, NIBV and NIBV+Wog. We found that wogonin significantly inhibited the copy number of NIBV and significantly alleviated NIBV-induced cell apoptosis and necrosis. Moreover, wogonin inhibited the reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and the aberrant opening of mPTP caused by NIBV. In conclusion, wogonin can protect renal tubular epithelial cells from damage by inhibiting the replication of NIBV and preventing mitochondrial apoptosis and necroptosis induced by NIBV.
Genome-Wide Identification and Functional Analysis of the GUX Gene Family in Eucalyptus grandis
Authors: Li Linsi , Tang Jiye , Wu Aimin , Fan Chunjie , Li Huiling
Published: July 2024

Xylan, one of the most important structures and polysaccharides, plays critical roles in plant development, growth, and defense responses to pathogens. Glucuronic acid substitution of xylan (GUX) functions in xylan sidechain decoration, which is involved in a wide range of physiological processes in plants. However, the specifics of GUXs in trees remain unclear. In this study, the characterization and evolution of the GUX family genes in E. grandis, a fast-growing forest tree belonging to the Myrtaceae family, were performed. A total of 23 EgGUXs were identified from the E. grandis genome, of which all members contained motif 2, 3, 5, and 7. All GUX genes were phylogeneticly clustered into five distinct groups. Among them, EgGUX01~EgGUX05 genes were clustered into group III and IV, which were more closely related to the AtGUX1, AtGUX2, and AtGUX4 members of Arabidopsis thaliana known to possess glucuronyltransferase activity, while most other members were clustered into group I. The light-responsive elements, hormone-responsive elements, growth and development-responsive elements, and stress-responsive elements were found in the promoter cis-acting elements, suggesting the expression of GUX might also be regulated by abiotic factors. RNA-Seq data confirmed that EgGUX02, EgGUX03, and EgGUX10 are highly expressed in xylem, and EgGUX09, EgGUX10, and EgGUX14 were obviously responses to abiotic stresses. The results of this paper will provide a comprehensive determination of the functions of the EgGUX family members, which will further contribute to understanding E. grandis xylan formation.
Moderate Aerobic Exercise Induces Homeostatic IgA Generation in Senile Mice
Authors: Hernández-Urbán Angel J. , Drago-Serrano Maria-Elisa , Reséndiz-Albor Aldo A. , Sierra-Ramírez José A. , Guzmán-Mejía Fabiola , Oros-Pantoja Rigoberto , Godínez-Victoria Marycarmen
Published: July 2024

A T-cell-independent (TI) pathway activated by microbiota results in the generation of low-affinity homeostatic IgA with a critical role in intestinal homeostasis. Moderate aerobic exercise (MAE) provides a beneficial impact on intestinal immunity, but the action of MAE on TI-IgA generation under senescence conditions is unknown. This study aimed to determine the effects of long-term MAE on TI-IgA production in young (3 month old) BALB/c mice exercised until adulthood (6 months) or aging (24 months). Lamina propria (LP) from the small intestine was obtained to determine B cell and plasma cell sub-populations by flow cytometry and molecular factors related to class switch recombination [Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin (TSLP), A Proliferation-Inducing Ligand (APRIL), B Cell Activating Factor (BAFF), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and retinal dehydrogenase (RDH)] and the synthesis of IgA [α-chain, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-21, and Growth Factor-β (TGF-β)]; and epithelial cells evaluated IgA transitosis [polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-4] by the RT-qPCR technique. The results were compared with data obtained from sedentary age-matched mice. Statistical analysis was computed with ANOVA, and p < 0.05 was considered to be a statistically significant difference. Under senescence conditions, MAE promoted the B cell and IgA+ B cells and APRIL, which may improve the intestinal response and ameliorate the inflammatory environment associated presumably with the downmodulation of pro-inflammatory mediators involved in the upmodulation of pIgR expression. Data suggested that MAE improved IgA and downmodulate the cytokine pro-inflammatory expression favoring homeostatic conditions in aging.
Molecular Mechanisms behind Obesity and Their Potential Exploitation in Current and Future Therapy
Authors: Nicze Michał , Dec Adrianna , Borówka Maciej , Krzyżak Damian , Bołdys Aleksandra , Bułdak Łukasz , Okopień Bogusław
Published: July 2024

Obesity is a chronic disease caused primarily by the imbalance between the amount of calories supplied to the body and energy expenditure. Not only does it deteriorate the quality of life, but most importantly it increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, leading to reduced life expectancy. In this review, we would like to present the molecular pathomechanisms underlying obesity, which constitute the target points for the action of anti-obesity medications. These include the central nervous system, brain–gut–microbiome axis, gastrointestinal motility, and energy expenditure. A significant part of this article is dedicated to incretin-based drugs such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., liraglutide and semaglutide), as well as the brand new dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist tirzepatide, all of which have become “block-buster” drugs due to their effectiveness in reducing body weight and beneficial effects on the patient’s metabolic profile. Finally, this review article highlights newly designed molecules with the potential for future obesity management that are the subject of ongoing clinical trials.
Metabolome and Transcriptome Unveil the Correlated Metabolites and Transcripts with 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline in Fragrant Rice
Authors: Zeng Yu , Nong Baoxuan , Xia Xiuzhong , Zhang Zongqiong , Wang Yuhao , Xu Yong , Feng Rui , Guo Hui , Liang Yuntao , Chen Can , Liang Shuhui , Jiang Xianbin , Yang Xinghai , Li Danting
Published: July 2024

Fragrance is a valuable trait in rice varieties, with its aroma significantly influencing consumer preference. In this study, we conducted comprehensive metabolome and transcriptome analyses to elucidate the genetic and biochemical basis of fragrance in the Shangsixiangnuo (SSXN) variety, a fragrant indica rice cultivated in Guangxi, China. Through sensory evaluation and genetic analysis, we confirmed SSXN as strongly fragrant, with an 806 bp deletion in the BADH2 gene associated with fragrance production. In the metabolome analysis, a total of 238, 233, 105 and 60 metabolic compounds exhibited significant changes at the seedling (S), reproductive (R), filling (F), and maturation (M) stages, respectively. We identified four compounds that exhibited significant changes in SSXN across all four development stages. Our analyses revealed a significant upregulation of 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP), the well-studied aromatic compound, in SSXN compared to the non-fragrant variety. Additionally, correlation analysis identified several metabolites strongly associated with 2AP, including ethanone, 1-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-, 1H-pyrrole, and pyrrole. Furthermore, Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) analysis highlighted the magenta and yellow modules as particularly enriched in aroma-related metabolites, providing insights into the complex aromatic compounds underlying the fragrance of rice. In the transcriptome analysis, a total of 5582, 5506, 4965, and 4599 differential expressed genes (DEGs) were identified across the four developmental stages, with a notable enrichment of the common pathway amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism in all stages. In our correlation analysis between metabolome and transcriptome data, the top three connected metabolites, phenol-, 3-amino-, and 2AP, along with ethanone, 1-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-, exhibited strong associations with transcripts, highlighting their potential roles in fragrance biosynthesis. Additionally, the downregulated expression of the P4H4 gene, encoding a procollagen-proline dioxygenase that specifically targets proline, in SSXN suggests its involvement in proline metabolism and potentially in aroma formation pathways. Overall, our study provides comprehensive insights into the genetic and biochemical mechanisms underlying fragrance production in rice, laying the foundation for further research aimed at enhancing fragrance quality in rice breeding programs.
Developing a Semi-Supervised Approach Using a PU-Learning-Based Data Augmentation Strategy for Multitarget Drug Discovery
Authors: Hao Yang , Li Bo , Huang Daiyun , Wu Sijin , Wang Tianjun , Fu Lei , Liu Xin
Published: July 2024

Multifactorial diseases demand therapeutics that can modulate multiple targets for enhanced safety and efficacy, yet the clinical approval of multitarget drugs remains rare. The integration of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) in drug discovery has revolutionized virtual screening. This study investigates the synergy between ML/DL methodologies, molecular representations, and data augmentation strategies. Notably, we found that SVM can match or even surpass the performance of state-of-the-art DL methods. However, conventional data augmentation often involves a trade-off between the true positive rate and false positive rate. To address this, we introduce Negative-Augmented PU-bagging (NAPU-bagging) SVM, a novel semi-supervised learning framework. By leveraging ensemble SVM classifiers trained on resampled bags containing positive, negative, and unlabeled data, our approach is capable of managing false positive rates while maintaining high recall rates. We applied this method to the identification of multitarget-directed ligands (MTDLs), where high recall rates are critical for compiling a list of interaction candidate compounds. Case studies demonstrate that NAPU-bagging SVM can identify structurally novel MTDL hits for ALK-EGFR with favorable docking scores and binding modes, as well as pan-agonists for dopamine receptors. The NAPU-bagging SVM methodology should serve as a promising avenue to virtual screening, especially for the discovery of MTDLs.
Expression of Osteopontin and Gremlin 1 Proteins in Cardiomyocytes in Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Kuprytė Milda , Lesauskaitė Vaiva , Siratavičiūtė Vitalija , Utkienė Lina , Jusienė Lina , Pangonytė Dalia
Published: July 2024

A relevant role of osteopontin (OPN) and gremlin 1 (Grem1) in regulating cardiac tissue remodeling and formation of heart failure (HF) are documented, with the changes of OPN and Grem1 levels in blood plasma due to acute ischemia, ischemic heart disease-induced advanced HF or dilatative cardiomyopathy being the primary focus in most of these studies. However, knowledge on the early OPN and Grem1 proteins expression changes within cardiomyocytes during remodeling due to chronic ischemia remains insufficient. The aim of this study was to determine the OPN and Grem1 proteins expression changes in human cardiomyocytes at different stages of ischemic HF. A semi-quantitative immunohistochemical analysis was performed in 105 myocardial tissue samples obtained from the left cardiac ventricles. Increased OPN immunostaining intensity was already detected in the stage A HF group, compared to the control group (p < 0.001), and continued to increase in the stage B HF (p < 0.001), achieving the peak of immunostaining in the stages C/D HF group (p < 0.001). Similar data of Grem1 immunostaining intensity changes in cardiomyocytes were documented. Significantly positive correlations were detected between OPN, Grem1 expression in cardiomyocytes and their diameter as well as the length, in addition to positive correlation between OPN and Grem1 expression changes within cardiomyocytes. These novel findings suggest that OPN and Grem1 contribute significantly to reorganization of cellular geometry from the earliest stage of cardiomyocyte remodeling, providing new insights into the ischemic HF pathogenesis.
The Role of MicroRNAs in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy—A Systematic Review
Authors: Ćwiklińska Aleksandra , Procyk Grzegorz , Koziorowski Dariusz , Szlufik Stanisław
Published: July 2024

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare, neurodegenerative movement disorder. Together with multiple system atrophy (MSA), Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and corticobasal degeneration (CBD), PSP forms a group of atypical parkinsonisms. The latest diagnostic criteria, published in 2017 by the Movement Disorders Society, classify PSP diagnosis into defined, probable, and possible categories based on clinical examination. However, no single test is specific and sensitive for this disease. Microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are promising molecules, particularly in the case of diseases that lack appropriate diagnostic and treatment tools, which supports exploring their role in PSP. We aimed to systematically review the current knowledge about the role of miRNAs in PSP. This study was registered in the Open Science Framework Registry, and the protocol is available online. Primary original studies, both clinical and preclinical, written in English and assessing miRNAs in PSP were included. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, reviews, case reports, letters to editors, commentaries, conference abstracts, guidelines/statements, expert opinions, preprints, and book chapters were excluded. The following five databases were searched: Embase, Medline Ultimate, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Each database was last searched on 18 June 2024. Eventually, nine original studies relevant to the discussed area were included. The risk of bias was not assessed. The selected research suggests that miRNAs may be considered promising biomarkers in PSP. However, the exact involvement of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of PSP is still to be determined. Several microRNAs were found to be dysregulated in patients with PSP. This applies to both brain tissue and fluids like cerebrospinal fluid CSF or blood. Several miRNAs were found that could potentially be helpful in differentiating among PSP patients, PD patients, and healthy individuals. Although some correlations and alterations have already been found, this field requires much more research. MicroRNAs are exciting and promising small molecules, and their investigation into many diseases, including PSP, may lead to significant discoveries.
Minipuberty in Daughters of Women with Hypothyroidism during Pregnancy
Authors: Kowalcze Karolina , Krysiak Robert , Kula-Gradzik Joanna , Gullo Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Minipuberty is a term describing transient postnatal activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, likely playing an important role in the postnatal growth of female genital organs and breasts. Unlike infant boys, there are no data concerning the impact of gestational hypothyroidism on the course of minipuberty in infant girls. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the reproductive axis and genital organs in daughters of women with thyroid hypofunction during pregnancy. The study population included three matched groups of infant girls: offspring of women with thyroid hypofunction non-substituted or inadequately treated during gestation (group 1), descendants of women adequately substituted throughout pregnancy (group 2), and daughters of healthy women (group 3). Salivary concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and androgens (testosterone, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) and urine levels of gonadotropins were measured monthly from month 1 to month 6, once every two months between postnatal months 6 and 12, and once every three months between postnatal months 12 and 18. During each visit, we also determined ovarian volume, uterine length, and breast diameter. Concentrations of FSH, LH, and estradiol were lowest in group 1, and this group was also characterized by the shortest detection period for gonadotropins and estradiol. These differences were paralleled by differences in ovarian volume, uterine length, and breast diameter. There were no differences between groups 2 and 3 in levels of both hormones and in the size of the measured structures. The obtained results seem to indicate that non-substituted or inadequately substituted hypothyroidism during pregnancy may impair the course of minipuberty in the female offspring.
SARS-CoV-2 Rapidly Infects Peripheral Sensory and Autonomic Neurons, Contributing to Central Nervous System Neuroinvasion before Viremia
Authors: Joyce Jonathan D. , Moore Greyson A. , Goswami Poorna , Harrell Telvin L. , Taylor Tina M. , Hawks Seth A. , Green Jillian C. , Jia Mo , Irwin Matthew D. , Leslie Emma , Duggal Nisha K. , Thompson Christopher K. , Bertke Andrea S.
Published: July 2024

Neurological symptoms associated with COVID-19, acute and long term, suggest SARS-CoV-2 affects both the peripheral and central nervous systems (PNS/CNS). Although studies have shown olfactory and hematogenous invasion into the CNS, coinciding with neuroinflammation, little attention has been paid to susceptibility of the PNS to infection or to its contribution to CNS invasion. Here we show that sensory and autonomic neurons in the PNS are susceptible to productive infection with SARS-CoV-2 and outline physiological and molecular mechanisms mediating neuroinvasion. Our infection of K18-hACE2 mice, wild-type mice, and golden Syrian hamsters, as well as primary peripheral sensory and autonomic neuronal cultures, show viral RNA, proteins, and infectious virus in PNS neurons, satellite glial cells, and functionally connected CNS tissues. Additionally, we demonstrate, in vitro, that neuropilin-1 facilitates SARS-CoV-2 neuronal entry. SARS-CoV-2 rapidly invades the PNS prior to viremia, establishes a productive infection in peripheral neurons, and results in sensory symptoms often reported by COVID-19 patients.
Urolithin A Protects against Hypoxia-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension by Inhibiting Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cell Pyroptosis via AMPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling
Authors: He Xinjie , Wu Zhinan , Jiang Jinyao , Xu Wenyi , Yuan Ancai , Liao Fei , Ding Song , Pu Jun
Published: July 2024

Recent studies confirmed that pyroptosis is involved in the progression of pulmonary hypertension (PH), which could promote pulmonary artery remodeling. Urolithin A (UA), an intestinal flora metabolite of ellagitannins (ETs) and ellagic acid (EA), has been proven to possess inhibitory effects on pyroptosis under various pathological conditions. However, its role on PH remained undetermined. To investigate the potential of UA in mitigating PH, mice were exposed to hypoxia (10% oxygen, 4 weeks) to induce PH, with or without UA treatment. Moreover, in vitro experiments were carried out to further uncover the underlying mechanisms. The in vivo treatment of UA suppressed the progression of PH via alleviating pulmonary remodeling. Pyroptosis-related genes were markedly upregulated in mice models of PH and reversed after the administration of UA. In accordance with that, UA treatment significantly inhibited hypoxia-induced pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) pyroptosis via the AMPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. Our results revealed that UA treatment effectively mitigated PH progression through inhibiting PASMC pyroptosis, which represents an innovative therapeutic approach for PH.
Recent Advances on Fluorine Chemistry
Authors: Moskalik Mikhail Yu.
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this Special Issue is to showcase the latest findings in fluorine chemistry [...]
Influence of Solvent Polarity on the Conformer Ratio of Bicalutamide in Saturated Solutions: Insights from NOESY NMR Analysis and Quantum-Chemical Calculations
Authors: Sobornova Valentina V. , Belov Konstantin V. , Krestyaninov Michael A. , Khodov Ilya A.
Published: July 2024

The study presents a thorough and detailed analysis of bicalutamide’s structural and conformational properties. Quantum chemical calculations were employed to explore the conformational properties of the molecule, identifying significant energy differences between conformers. Analysis revealed that hydrogen bonds stabilise the conformers, with notable variations in torsion angles. Conformers were classified into ‘closed’ and ‘open’ types based on the relative orientation of the cyclic fragments. NOE spectroscopy in different solvents (CDCl3 and DMSO-d6) was used to study the conformational preferences of the molecule. NOESY experiments provided the predominance of ‘closed’ conformers in non-polar solvents and a significant presence of ‘open’ conformers in polar solvents. The proportions of open conformers were 22.7 ± 3.7% in CDCl3 and 59.8 ± 6.2% in DMSO-d6, while closed conformers accounted for 77.3 ± 3.7% and 40.2 ± 6.2%, respectively. This comprehensive study underscores the solvent environment’s impact on its structural behaviour. The findings significantly contribute to a deeper understanding of conformational dynamics, stimulating further exploration in drug development.
Stress-Related Roles of Exosomes and Exosomal miRNAs in Common Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Chamakioti Myrsini , Chrousos George P. , Kassi Eva , Vlachakis Dimitrios , Yapijakis Christos
Published: July 2024

Exosomes, natural nanovesicles that contain a cargo of biologically active molecules such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, are released from cells to the extracellular environment. They then act as autocrine, paracrine, or endocrine mediators of communication between cells by delivering their cargo into recipient cells and causing downstream effects. Exosomes are greatly enriched in miRNAs, which are small non-coding RNAs that act both as cytoplasmic post-transcriptional repression agents, modulating the translation of mRNAs into proteins, as well as nuclear transcriptional gene activators. Neuronal exosomal miRNAs have important physiologic functions in the central nervous system (CNS), including cell-to-cell communication, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis, as well as modulating stress and inflammatory responses. Stress-induced changes in exosomal functions include effects on neurogenesis and neuroinflammation, which can lead to the appearance of various neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s diseases. The current knowledge regarding the roles of exosomes in the pathophysiology of common mental disorders is discussed in this review.