bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Overview of the Occurrence of Bioactive Peptides in Different Types of Cheeses
Authors: Rangel Adriano Henrique do Nascimento , Bezerra Débora América Frezza Villar de Araújo , Sales Danielle Cavalcanti , Araújo Emmanuella de Oliveira Moura , Lucena Luis Medeiros de , Porto Ana Lúcia Figueiredo , Véras Ítala Viviane Ubaldo Mesquita , Lacerda Ariane Ferreira , Ribeiro Cláudio Vaz Di Mambro , Anaya Katya
Published: November 2023

The search for improvements in quality of life has increasingly involved changes in the diet, especially the consumption of foods which, in addition to having good nutritional value, are characterized by offering health benefits. Among the molecules that trigger several beneficial responses are peptides, which are specific fragments of proteins known to produce positive effects on the human body. This review aimed to discuss the bioactive potential of peptides from cheeses. Studies show that the protein composition of some cheese varieties exhibits a potential for the release of bioactive peptides. The production of these peptides can be promoted by some technological procedures that affect the milk structure and constituents. The cheese maturation process stands out for producing bioactive peptides due to the action of enzymes produced by lactic acid bacteria. Thus, in addition to being proteins with high biological value due to their excellent amino acid profile, peptides from some types of cheeses are endowed with functional properties such as anti-hypertensive, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, opioid, and zinc-binding activities.
Simultaneous Quantitative Determination of Low-Concentration Preservatives and Heavy Metals in Tricholoma Matsutakes Based on SERS and FLU Spectral Data Fusion
Authors: Jin Yuanyin , Li Chun , Huang Zhengwei , Jiang Ling
Published: November 2023

As an ingredient of great economic value, Tricholoma matsutake has received widespread attention. However, heavy metal residues and preservatives in it will affect the quality of Tricholoma matsutake and endanger the health of consumers. Here, we present a method for the simultaneous detection of low concentrations of potassium sorbate and lead in Tricholoma matsutakes based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and fluorescence (FLU) spectroscopy to test the safety of consumption. Data fusion strategies combined with multiple machine learning methods, including partial least-squares regression (PLSR), deep forest (DF) and convolutional neural networks (CNN) are used for model training. The results show that combined with reasonable band selection, the CNN prediction model based on decision-level fusion achieves the best performance, the correlation coefficients (R2) were increased to 0.9963 and 0.9934, and the root mean square errors (RMSE) were reduced to 0.0712 g·kg−1 and 0.0795 mg·kg−1, respectively. The method proposed in this paper accurately predicts preservatives and heavy metals remaining in Tricholoma matsutake and provides a reference for other food safety testing.
Beyond the Bottle: Exploring Health-Promoting Compounds in Wine and Wine-Related Products—Extraction, Detection, Quantification, Aroma Properties, and Terroir Effects
Authors: Marques Catarina , Dinis Lia-Tânia , Santos Maria João , Mota João , Vilela Alice
Published: November 2023

Health-promoting compounds in wine and wine-related products are important due to their potential benefits to human health. Through an extensive literature review, this study explores the presence of these compounds in wine and wine-related products, examining their relationship with terroir and their impact on the aromatic and flavor properties that are perceived orally: sunlight exposure, rainfall patterns, and soil composition impact grapevines’ synthesis and accumulation of health-promoting compounds. Enzymes, pH, and the oral microbiome are crucial in sensory evaluation and perception of health promotion. Moreover, their analysis of health-promoting compounds in wine and wine-related products relies on considerations such as the specific target compound, selectivity, sensitivity, and the complexity of the matrix.
Antibacterial and Antiviral Properties of Pinus densiflora Essential Oil
Authors: Oh Yu Jin , Kim Yeong-Su , Kim Jae Woo , Kim Dae Wook
Published: November 2023

The Korean mountains are home to the Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora). Pine needle oil has been used as a food additive and a traditional herbal medicine; however, any health-related properties of its trunk oil remain unknown. Herein, we assessed antibacterial and antiviral properties of essential oil extracted from the trunk of P. densiflora. Th extracted oil was hydrodistilled using a Clevenger apparatus and analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The antimicrobial activity of the oil was tested using the microbroth dilution technique against 10 bacterial species (6 g-positive and 4 g-negative) and fungi. The extract exerted strong antimicrobial activity against Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Propionibacterium acnes, and Malassezia furfur (minimum inhibitory concentration = 10 mL/L). Additionally, it exhibited dose-dependent activity against influenza virus A and feline coronavirus. Furthermore, among 20 identified constituents accounting for 98.7% of the oil contents, the major components included 3-cyclohexene-1-methanol (10.12%), 2-(4-methylcyclohexyl)-2-propanol (9.09%), fenchone (8.14%), O-isopropyltoluene (6.35%), and isothymol methyl ether (6.14%). The P. densiflora trunk essential oil showed antibacterial and antiviral activities that depended on its chemical composition and the microbial strains tested herein. The essential oil can be used as an antimicrobial agent and disinfectant.
Hypotensive and Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxant Effects of Grayblue Spicebush Ethanol Extract in Rats
Authors: Shin Sujin , Park Junkyu , Choi Ho-Young , Lee Kyungjin
Published: November 2023

Hypertension is one of the most common chronic diseases, and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. Lindera glauca (Siebold & Zucc.) Blume, known as grayblue spicebush (GS), has been used as food and for medicinal purposes; however, studies about its hypotensive or vasorelaxant effects are lacking. Therefore, the hypotensive effect of an ethanolic extract of the GS branch (GSE) was investigated in 15-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) using the tail cuff method. The GSE administration group (1000 mg/kg SHR body weight) showed a decrease in their systolic and diastolic blood pressure measured 4 h after its administration. In addition, we investigated its vasorelaxant effect using the thoracic aorta dissected from Sprague-Dawley rats. The GSE (0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 μg/mL) showed an endothelium-dependent vasorelaxant effect, and its mechanisms were found to be relevant to the inward rectifier, voltage-dependent, and non-selective K+ channels. Moreover, the GSE (20 μg/mL) showed an inhibitory effect on aortic rings constricted with angiotensin II. Considering its hypotensive and vasorelaxant effects, GSE has potential as a functional food to help treat and prevent high blood pressure. However, further studies on the identification of the active components of GSE and safety evaluations of its use are needed.
Existence of Ground State Solutions for Choquard Equation with the Upper Critical Exponent
Authors: Abdullah Qadha Sarah , Chen Haibo , Qadha Muneera Abdullah
Published: November 2023

In this article, we investigate the existence of a nontrivial solution for the nonlinear Choquard equation with upper critical exponent see Equation (6). The Riesz potential in this case has never been studied. We establish the existence of the ground state solution within bounded domains Ω⊂RN. Variational methods are used for this purpose. This method proved to be instrumental in our research, enabling us to address the problem effectively. The study of the existence of ground state solutions for the Choquard equation with a critical exponent has applications and relevance in various fields, primarily in theoretical physics and mathematical analysis.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Associated with AA-Amyloidosis in Siamese and Oriental Shorthair Cats
Authors: Esders Stella L. , Hülskötter Kirsten , Schreiner Tom , Wohlsein Peter , Schmitz Jessica , Bräsen Jan H. , Distl Ottmar
Published: November 2023

AA-amyloidosis in Siamese and Oriental shorthair cats is a lethal condition in which amyloid deposits accumulate systemically, especially in the liver and the thyroid gland. The age at death of affected cats varies between one and seven years. A previous study indicated a complex mode of inheritance involving a major locus. In the present study, we performed a multi-locus genome-wide association study (GWAS) using five methods (mrMLM, FASTmrMLM, FASTmrEMMA, pLARmEB and ISIS EM-BLASSO) to identify variants associated with AA-amyloidosis in Siamese/Oriental cats. We genotyped 20 affected mixed Siamese/Oriental cats from a cattery and 48 healthy controls from the same breeds using the Illumina Infinium Feline 63 K iSelect DNA array. The multi-locus GWAS revealed eight significantly associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on FCA A1, D1, D2 and D3. The genomic regions harboring these SNPs contain 55 genes, of which 3 are associated with amyloidosis in humans or mice. One of these genes is SAA1, which encodes for a member of the Serum Amyloid A family, the precursor protein of Amyloid A, and a mutation in the promotor of this gene causes hereditary AA-amyloidosis in humans. These results provide novel knowledge regarding the complex genetic background of hereditary AA-amyloidosis in Siamese/Oriental cats and, therefore, contribute to future genomic studies of this disease in cats.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Pattern of MYB Family Transcription Factors in Erianthus fulvus
Authors: Rao Xibing , Qian Zhenfeng , Xie Linyan , Wu Huaying , Luo Quan , Zhang Qiyue , He Lilian , Li Fusheng
Published: November 2023

MYB family genes have many functions and are widely involved in plant abiotic-stress responses. Erianthus fulvus is an important donor material for stress-resistance genes in sugarcane breeding. However, the MYB family genes in E. fulvus have not been systematically investigated. In this study, 133 EfMYB genes, including 48 Ef1R-MYB, 84 EfR2R3-MYB and 1 Ef3R-MYB genes, were identified in the E. fulvus genome. Among them, the EfR2R3-MYB genes were classified into 20 subgroups. In addition, these EfMYB genes were unevenly distributed across 10 chromosomes. A total of 4 pairs of tandemly duplicated EfMYB genes and 21 pairs of segmentally duplicated EfMYB genes were identified in the E. fulvus genome. Protein-interaction analysis predicted that 24 EfMYB proteins had potential interactions with 14 other family proteins. The EfMYB promoter mainly contains cis-acting elements related to the hormone response, stress response, and light response. Expression analysis showed that EfMYB39, EfMYB84, and EfMYB124 could be significantly induced using low-temperature stress. EfMYB30, EfMYB70, EfMYB81, and EfMYB101 responded positively to drought stress. ABA treatment significantly induced EfMYB1, EfMYB30, EfMYB39, EfMYB84, and EfMYB130. All nine genes were induced using MeJA treatment. These results provide comprehensive information on EfMYB genes and can serve as a reference for further studies of gene function.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Egg Production Traits in Shuanglian Chickens Using Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Fu Ming , Wu Yan , Shen Jie , Pan Ailuan , Zhang Hao , Sun Jing , Liang Zhenhua , Huang Tao , Du Jinping , Pi Jinsong
Published: November 2023

Egg production is the most important economic trait in laying hens. To identify molecular markers and candidate genes associated with egg production traits, such as age at first egg (AFE), weight at first egg (WFE), egg weight (EW), egg number (EN), and maximum consecutive egg laying days (MCD), a genome-wide analysis by whole genome sequencing was performed in Shuanglian chickens. Through whole genome sequencing and quality control, a total of 11,006,178 SNPs were obtained for further analysis. Heritability estimates ranged from moderate to high for EW (0.897) and MCD (0.632), and from low to moderate (0.193~0.379) for AFE, WFE, and EN. The GWAS results showed 11 genome-wide significant SNPs and 23 suggestive significant SNPs were identified to be associated with EN, MCD, WFE, and EW. Linkage disequilibrium analysis revealed twenty-seven SNPs associated with EN were located in a 0.57 Mb region on GGA10, and clustered into five blocks. Through functional annotation, three candidate genes NEO1, ADPGK, and CYP11A1, were identified to be associated with EN, while the S1PR4, LDB2, and GRM8 genes was linked to MCD, WFE, and EW, respectively. These findings may help us to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying egg production traits in chickens and contribute to genetic improvement of these traits.
Work-Up and Treatment Strategies for Individuals with PIK3CA-Related Disorders: A Consensus of Experts from the Scientific Committee of the Italian Macrodactyly and PROS Association
Authors: Gazzin Andrea , Leoni Chiara , Viscogliosi Germana , Borgini Federica , Perri Lucrezia , Iacoviello Matteo , Piglionica Marilidia , De Pellegrin Maurizio , Ferrero Giovanni Battista , Bartuli Andrea , Zampino Giuseppe , Buonuomo Paola Sabrina , Resta Nicoletta , Mussa Alessandro
Published: November 2023

PIK3CA-related disorders encompass many rare and ultra-rare conditions caused by somatic genetic variants that hyperactivate the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway, which is essential for cell cycle control. PIK3CA-related disorders include PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum (PROS), PIK3CA-related vascular malformations and PIK3CA-related non-vascular lesions. Phenotypes are extremely heterogeneous and overlapping. Therefore, diagnosis and management frequently involve various health specialists. Given the rarity of these disorders and the limited number of centers offering optimal care, the Scientific Committee of the Italian Macrodactyly and PROS Association has proposed a revision of the most recent recommendations for the diagnosis, molecular testing, clinical management, follow-up, and treatment strategies. These recommendations give insight on molecular diagnosis, eligible samples, preferable sequencing, and validation methods and management of negative results. The purpose of this paper is to promote collaboration between health care centers and clinicians with a joint shared approach. Finally, we suggest the direction of present and future research studies, including new systemic target therapies, which are currently under evaluation in several clinical trials, such as specific inhibitors that can be employed to downregulate the signaling pathway.
Genetic and Transcriptome Analyses of Callus Browning in Chaling Common Wild Rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff.)
Authors: Qiu Lingyi , Su Jingjing , Fu Yongcai , Zhang Kun
Published: November 2023

Callus browning during tissue culture of indica rice is genotype dependent, thus limiting the application of genetic transformation for editing-assisted breeding and elucidation of gene function. Here, using 124 introgression lines (HCLs) derived from a cross between the indica rice 9311 and Chaling common wild rice and 2059 SNPs for single-point and interval analysis, we identified two major QTLs, qCBT7 on chromosome 7 and qCBT10 on chromosome 10, related to callus browning, explaining 8–13% of callus browning. Moreover, we performed RNA-seq of two introgression lines with low callus browning, HCL183 and HCL232, with Oryza. rufipogon introgression fragments on chromosomes 10 and 7, respectively. Three candidate genes (Os07g0620700, Os10g0361000, and Os10g0456800) with upregulation were identified by combining interval mapping and weighted gene coexpression network analysis using the DEGs. The qRT-PCR results of the three candidate genes were consistent with those of RNA-seq. The differentiation of indica and japonica subspecies Oryza. sativa and Oryza. rufipogon suggests that these candidate genes are possibly unique in Oryza. rufipogon. GO analyses of hub genes revealed that callus browning may be mainly associated with ethylene and hormone signaling pathways. The results lay a foundation for future cloning of qCBT7 or qCBT10 and will improve genetic transformation efficiency in rice.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Family-1 UDP-Glycosyltransferases in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.): Identification, Phylogenetic Analysis and Determination of Response to Osmotic Stress
Authors: Wu Yongchao , Liu Jie , Jiao Baozhen , Wang Tingting , Sun Sifan , Huang Binquan
Published: November 2023

Family-1 UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) are the most common and functional glycosyltransferases in the plant world. UGT is closely related to plant growth and the response to abiotic stress. However, despite systematic research, our understanding of potato UGT genes is still unclear. In this study, we identified 174 potato UGT proteins based on their conserved plant secondary product glycosyltransferase (PSPG) motifs. Phylogenetic analyses were used to compare these proteins with Arabidopsis UGTs and other plant UGTs, and it was found that they could be clustered into 18 distinct groups. Patterns of intron gain/loss and intron phases within potato UGTs revealed highly conserved intron insertion events. The promoter cis-elements of these 174 UGT genes were systematically investigated. The promoter regions of these UGT genes are known to contain various classes of cis-acting compounds. These include elements that are light-responsive, phytohormone-responsive, and stress-responsive. Transcriptome data analysis established that 25, 10, 6, and 4 of these 174 UGT genes were specifically expressed in leaves, roots, stolons, and young tubers, respectively. The mannitol-treated transcriptomic data showed thirty-eight UGT genes were significantly upregulated. The quantitative real-time PCR results showed that the four genes were all responsive to osmotic stress under a 10% PEG6000 treatment. The results of our study provide a basis for clarifying the molecular mechanism of potato osmotic stress resistance and better understanding its function in the future.
Effects of Mobile-Based Forest-Therapy Programs Using Urban Forests for Symptoms of Depressed Patients
Authors: Yeon Poung-Sik , Kim In-Ok , Kang Si-Nae , Lee Nee-Eun , Kim Ga-Yeon , Shim Ha-Rim , Chung Chung-Yeub , Lee Jung-Sok , Jeon Jin-Young , Shin Won-Sop
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the effect of mobile-based forest therapy programs on relieving depression to advance non-pharmaceutical treatments for patients with depression. The effects of depression, sleep quality, and physical symptoms were analyzed as measurement indicators to determine the effectiveness of symptom relief in patients with depression. This study used a randomized controlled experiment design. Participants were randomly assigned, and a total of 44 people participated, including 23 in the experimental group and 21 in the control group. The experimental group participated in a mobile-based forest therapy program (participating once a week) for six sessions. As a result of this study, depression patients who participated in the mobile-based forest therapy program conducted in urban forests showed a significant reduction in MADRS (from 21.48 ± 4.05 to 7.13 ± 7.00). In addition, PSQI (from 19.78 ± 7.69 to 14.48 ± 8.11) and PHQ-15 (from 9.87 ± 5.08 to 7.57 ± 5.03) were also found to significantly improve symptoms. This suggests that forest-therapy programs using mobile applications can be applied as non-pharmaceutical interventions to relieve symptoms in patients with depression.
Burnout and Its Relationship with Work Engagement in Healthcare Professionals: A Latent Profile Analysis Approach
Authors: Luna David , Figuerola-Escoto Rosa Paola , Sienra-Monge Juan José Luis , Hernández-Roque Alejandra , Soria-Magaña Arturo , Hernández-Corral Sandra , Toledano-Toledano Filiberto
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to use latent profile analysis to identify specific profiles of burnout syndrome in combination with work engagement and to identify whether job satisfaction, psychological well-being, and other sociodemographic and work variables affect the probability of presenting a profile of burnout syndrome and low work enthusiasm. A total of 355 healthcare professionals completed the Spanish Burnout Inventory, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, the Job Satisfaction Scale, and the Psychological Well-Being Scale for Adults. Latent profile analysis identified four profiles: (1) burnout with high indolence (BwHIn); (2) burnout with low indolence (BwLIn); (3) high engagement, low burnout (HeLb); and (4) in the process of burning out (IPB). Multivariate logistic regression showed that a second job in a government healthcare institution; a shift other than the morning shift; being divorced, separated or widowed; and workload are predictors of burnout profiles with respect to the HeLb profile. These data are useful for designing intervention strategies according to the needs and characteristics of each type of burnout profile.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Population in Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almalki Manal , Sultan Mohammed Kotb , Abbas Mohammed , Alhazmi Ajiad , Hassan Yasser , Varghese Joe
Published: November 2023

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and refusal vary across countries and among different socio-demographic groups. This study investigates hesitancy related to the COVID-19 vaccine and the associated factors in the rural-community-dominated Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study through an online questionnaire was conducted from February to April 2021 to investigate the extent of vaccine hesitancy related to the COVID-19 vaccine and the associated factors in the Jazan region. A Chi-squared test and post hoc analysis were conducted to analyze the statistical significance of the association between variables. Of the 569 participants who completed the online questionnaire, the majority were males (81.5%) and had a university education (72.6%). Of the participants, more than one-third (36.9%) were hesitant to vaccinate. Concern about adverse side effects following vaccination was the most reported reason for vaccine hesitancy (42.6%), followed by beliefs that the vaccine was unsafe or ineffective (15.5%). The data analysis revealed that people who lived in cities in Jazan Province or those who did not have a family history of COVID-19 infection were more likely to be vaccine hesitant. It is more important than ever to develop and implement community-based strategies to address vaccine hesitancy, especially in rural areas.
Low-Intensity and Chemo-Free Treatments in Ph+ ALL: Progression-Free Survival Based on Indirect Comparisons
Authors: Rivano Melania , Mengato Daniele , Chiumente Marco , Messori Andrea
Published: November 2023

In Philadelphia chromosome-positive B-cell (Ph+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (LLA), growing evidence has accumulated regarding the efficacy of low-intensity and chemo-free regimens. Our objective was to analyze all recent trials evaluating these treatments and to compare them in terms of efficacy. We applied the Shiny method, an artificial intelligence technique, to analyze Kaplan–Meier curves and reconstruct patient-level data. Reconstructed patient data were then evaluated through standard survival statistics and subjected to indirect head-to-head treatment comparisons. The endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Based on 432 reconstructed patients, eight trials were analyzed. The survival data from these trials were pooled into three types of treatments: (i) treatments based on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) combined with reduced-intensity chemotherapy (denoted as TKICHE); (ii) TKIs associated with steroids with no chemotherapy (TKISTE); (iii) chemotherapy-free combinations of blinatumomab plus TKIs (TKIBLI). According to the Shiny method, the three PFS curves were reported in a single Kaplan–Meier graph and subjected to survival statistics. In terms of PFS, TKIBLI ranked first, TKICHE second, and TKISTE third; the differences between these three regimens were statistically significant. This multi-treatment Kaplan–Meier graph, generated through the Shiny method, summarized the current evidence on these treatments in both qualitative and quantitative terms.
A Web-Based Platform for 3D Visualization of Multimodal Imaging Data in Cultural Heritage Asset Documentation
Authors: Angheluță Laurențiu Marian , Popovici Alexandru Ioan , Ratoiu Lucian Cristian
Published: November 2023

Complex demands in the field of cultural heritage preservation often require a multidisciplinary approach and substantial volumes of multimodal data integration and management. The conventional approach to tackling these issues revolves around using different H-BIM (historical building information model) solutions. This paper presents a prototype for a web platform that moves closer to the idea of a digital twin for physical cultural assets. Based on a light development framework, it is designed for online open access and features a versatile custom 3D viewer for intuitive interaction with the presented data. The concept requires a workflow similar to the video-game industry’s 3D asset optimization to generate highly detailed 3D models and to facilitate the display of multilayered imaging data. The technological stack features a minimal MVC architecture framework and front-end stylesheets. It is designed to be independent of specific databases, enhancing portability for potential future open-source releases. Moreover, the platform employs WebGL libraries to create a dynamic 3D environment interaction. The capabilities of the web platform were tested in a case study regarding the documentation of an important 17th-century church in Romania. Further developments and current limitations of the platform are also discussed.
Interdisciplinary Therapy Improves the Mediators of Inflammation and Cardiovascular Risk in Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Masquio Deborah Cristina Landi , Campos Raquel Munhoz da Silveira , Netto Bárbara Dal Molin , Carvalho-Ferreira Joana Pereira de , Bueno Carlos Roberto , Alouan Stella , Poletto Gabriela Tronca , Ganen Aline de Piano , Tufik Sergio , de Mello Marco Túlio , Nardo Nelson , Dâmaso Ana R.
Published: November 2023

Obesity is associated with inflammation and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and premature mortality, as well as a range of other conditions. Obesity is a growing global problem, not only in adults, but also in children and adolescents. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effects of a one-year interdisciplinary intervention on the cardiometabolic and inflammatory profiles of adolescents with obesity. Twenty-two adolescents completed the intervention, which included clinical, nutritional, psychological and physical exercise counselling. Body composition, and metabolic, inflammatory, and cardiovascular risk biomarkers were analyzed before and after one year of intervention. Visceral and subcutaneous fat were determined ultrasonographically. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) equation were used to estimate insulin resistance and insulin sensitivity, respectively. A reduction in body mass, adiposity, glucose, and insulin and an improved lipid profile were observed after the therapy. Hyperleptinemia was reduced from 77.3% to 36.4%. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), leptin, the leptin/adiponectin ratio, and the adiponectin/leptin ratio were also significantly improved. Metabolic changes were associated with a reduction in visceral fat and waist circumference, and adiponectin and the leptin/adiponectin ratio were associated with HOMA-IR. The interdisciplinary therapy promoted improvements in hyperleptinemia and metabolic, inflammatory, and cardiovascular biomarkers.
Understanding Map Misinterpretation: Factors Influencing Correct Map Reading and Common Errors
Authors: Szigeti-Pap Csaba , Kis Dávid , Albert Gáspár
Published: November 2023

Misinterpreting maps can have serious consequences, especially in situations requiring quick decisions like using car navigation systems. Studies indicate that a map reader’s experience is crucial for understanding maps, but factors such as age, education, and gender can also influence interpretation. However, understanding only the proportion of correctly interpreted information is not enough. It is essential to investigate the types of mistakes made and their causes. To address this, we conducted a study available in six languages with 511 participants who completed an online questionnaire testing their map reading skills. The questions focused on scale usage, mental rotation, and recognizing map categories (relief, line and point symbols, and geographic names). Gender had significant relation with one skill, qualification with two and age with three. Experience was associated to the highest number of skills, a total of four, confirming previous findings. When making mistakes, participants tended to overestimate distances and struggled with conceptual similarities in symbol recognition. Experienced readers often misplaced reference locations of geographic names. The results of the research could be used in the design of large-scale maps (e.g., car navigation), as they allow to reduce typical map reading errors by careful selection of symbol types and placements.
Mapping Gross Domestic Product Distribution at 1 km Resolution across Thailand Using the Random Forest Area-to-Area Regression Kriging Model
Authors: Jin Yan , Ge Yong , Fan Haoyu , Li Zeshuo , Liu Yaojie , Jia Yan
Published: November 2023

Accurate spatial distribution of gridded gross domestic product (GDP) data is crucial for revealing regional disparities within administrative units, thus facilitating a deeper understanding of regional economic dynamics, industrial distribution, and urbanization trends. The existing GDP spatial models often rely on prediction residuals for model evaluation or utilize residual distribution to improve the final accuracy, frequently overlooking the modifiable areal unit problem within residual distribution. This paper introduces a hybrid downscaling model that combines random forest and area-to-area kriging to map gridded GDP. Employing Thailand as a case study, GDP distribution maps were generated at a 1 km spatial resolution for the year 2015 and compared with five alternative downscaling methods and an existing GDP product. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach yields higher accuracy and greater precision in detailing GDP distribution, as evidenced by the smallest mean absolute error and root mean squared error values, which stand at USD 256.458 and 699.348 ten million, respectively. Among the four different sets of auxiliary variables considered, one consistently exhibited a higher prediction accuracy. This particular set of auxiliary variables integrated classification-based variables, illustrating the advantages of incorporating such integrated variables into modeling while accounting for classification characteristics.
Yellow-Green Leaf 19 Encoding a Specific and Conservative Protein for Photosynthetic Organisms Affects Tetrapyrrole Biosynthesis, Photosynthesis, and Reactive Oxygen Species Metabolism in Rice
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhang Hongyu , Wei Lingxia , Guo Rong , Liu Xuanzhi , Zhang Miao , Fan Jiangmin , Liu Siyi , Liao Jianglin , Huang Yingjin , Wang Zhaohai
Published: November 2023

Chlorophyll is the main photosynthetic pigment and is crucial for plant photosynthesis. Leaf color mutants are widely used to identify genes involved in the synthesis or metabolism of chlorophyll. In this study, a spontaneous mutant, yellow-green leaf 19 (ygl19), was isolated from rice (Oryza sativa). This ygl19 mutant showed yellow-green leaves and decreased chlorophyll level and net photosynthetic rate. Brown necrotic spots appeared on the surface of ygl19 leaves at the tillering stage. And the agronomic traits of the ygl19 mutant, including the plant height, tiller number per plant, and total number of grains per plant, were significantly reduced. Map-based cloning revealed that the candidate YGL19 gene was LOC_Os03g21370. Complementation of the ygl19 mutant with the wild-type CDS of LOC_Os03g21370 led to the restoration of the mutant to the normal phenotype. Evolutionary analysis revealed that YGL19 protein and its homologues were unique for photoautotrophs, containing a conserved Ycf54 functional domain. A conserved amino acid substitution from proline to serine on the Ycf54 domain led to the ygl19 mutation. Sequence analysis of the YGL19 gene in 4726 rice accessions found that the YGL19 gene was conserved in natural rice variants with no resulting amino acid variation. The YGL19 gene was mainly expressed in green tissues, especially in leaf organs. And the YGL19 protein was localized in the chloroplast for function. Gene expression analysis via qRT-PCR showed that the expression levels of tetrapyrrole synthesis-related genes and photosynthesis-related genes were regulated in the ygl19 mutant. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anions and hydrogen peroxide accumulated in spotted leaves of the ygl19 mutant at the tillering stage, accompanied by the regulation of ROS scavenging enzyme-encoding genes and ROS-responsive defense signaling genes. This study demonstrates that a novel yellow-green leaf gene YGL19 affects tetrapyrrole biosynthesis, photosynthesis, and ROS metabolism in rice.
Cracking the Endothelial Calcium (Ca2+) Code: A Matter of Timing and Spacing
Authors: Moccia Francesco , Brunetti Valentina , Soda Teresa , Berra-Romani Roberto , Scarpellino Giorgia
Published: November 2023

A monolayer of endothelial cells lines the innermost surface of all blood vessels, thereby coming into close contact with every region of the body and perceiving signals deriving from both the bloodstream and parenchymal tissues. An increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) is the main mechanism whereby vascular endothelial cells integrate the information conveyed by local and circulating cues. Herein, we describe the dynamics and spatial distribution of endothelial Ca2+ signals to understand how an array of spatially restricted (at both the subcellular and cellular levels) Ca2+ signals is exploited by the vascular intima to fulfill this complex task. We then illustrate how local endothelial Ca2+ signals affect the most appropriate vascular function and are integrated to transmit this information to more distant sites to maintain cardiovascular homeostasis. Vasorelaxation and sprouting angiogenesis were selected as an example of functions that are finely tuned by the variable spatio-temporal profile endothelial Ca2+ signals. We further highlighted how distinct Ca2+ signatures regulate the different phases of vasculogenesis, i.e., proliferation and migration, in circulating endothelial precursors.
The Complex Interplay between Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Strigolactone: Mechanisms, Sinergies, Applications and Future Directions
Authors: Boyno Gökhan , Rezaee Danesh Younes , Demir Semra , Teniz Necmettin , Mulet José M. , Porcel Rosa
Published: November 2023

Plants, the cornerstone of life on Earth, are constantly struggling with a number of challenges arising from both biotic and abiotic stressors. To overcome these adverse factors, plants have evolved complex defense mechanisms involving both a number of cell signaling pathways and a complex network of interactions with microorganisms. Among these interactions, the relationship between symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and strigolactones (SLs) stands as an important interplay that has a significant impact on increased resistance to environmental stresses and improved nutrient uptake and the subsequent enhanced plant growth. AMF establishes mutualistic partnerships with plants by colonizing root systems, and offers a range of benefits, such as increased nutrient absorption, improved water uptake and increased resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses. SLs play a fundamental role in shaping root architecture, promoting the growth of lateral roots and regulating plant defense responses. AMF can promote the production and release of SLs by plants, which in turn promote symbiotic interactions due to their role as signaling molecules with the ability to attract beneficial microbes. The complete knowledge of this synergy has the potential to develop applications to optimize agricultural practices, improve nutrient use efficiency and ultimately increase crop yields. This review explores the roles played by AMF and SLs in plant development and stress tolerance, highlighting their individual contributions and the synergistic nature of their interaction.
APOBEC3G Is a p53-Dependent Restriction Factor in Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection of Human Cells Included in the p53/Immune Axis
Authors: Gladwell Wesley , Yost Oriana , Li Heather , Bell Whitney J. , Chen Shih-Heng , Ward James M. , Kleeberger Steven R. , Resnick Michael A. , Menendez Daniel
Published: November 2023

Identifying and understanding genetic factors that influence the propagation of the human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can lead to health benefits and possibly augment recent vaccine approaches. We previously identified a p53/immune axis in which the tumor suppressor p53 directly regulates the expression of immune system genes, including the seven members of the APOBEC3 family of DNA cytidine deaminases (A3), which are innate immune sentinels against viral infections. Here, we examined the potential p53 and A3 influence in RSV infection, as well as the overall p53-dependent cellular and p53/immune axis responses to infection. Using a paired p53 model system of p53+ and p53- human lung tumor cells, we found that RSV infection activates p53, leading to the altered p53-dependent expression of A3D, A3F, and A3G, along with p53 site-specific binding. Focusing on A3G because of its 10-fold-greater p53 responsiveness to RSV, the overexpression of A3G can reduce RSV viral replication and syncytial formation. We also observed that RSV-infected cells undergo p53-dependent apoptosis. The study was expanded to globally address at the transcriptional level the p53/immune axis response to RSV. Nearly 100 genes can be directly targeted by the p53/immune axis during RSV infection based on our p53BAER analysis (Binding And Expression Resource). Overall, we identify A3G as a potential p53-responsive restriction factor in RSV infection. These findings have significant implications for RSV clinical and therapeutic studies and other p53-influenced viral infections, including using p53 adjuvants to boost the response of A3 genes.
Human Papillomavirus Infection in Penile Cancer: Multidimensional Mechanisms and Vaccine Strategies
Authors: Wei Lichao , Huang Kangbo , Han Hui , Liu Ran-yi
Published: November 2023

Penile cancer (PC) is a rare male malignant tumor, with early lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis. Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a key role in the carcinogenesis of PC. This review aims to summarize the association between HPV infection and PC in terms of virus–host genome integration patterns (the disrupted regions in the HPV and PC genome), genetic alterations, and epigenetic regulation (methylation and microRNA modification) occurring in HPV and PC DNA, as well as tumor immune microenvironment reprogramming. In addition, the potential of HPV vaccination strategies for PC prevention and treatment is discussed. Understanding of the HPV-related multidimensional mechanisms and the application of HPV vaccines will promote rational and novel management of PC.
Homer1 Protects against Retinal Ganglion Cell Pyroptosis by Inhibiting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Associated TXNIP/NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation after Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion-Induced Retinal Ischemia
Authors: Lv Weihao , Wu Xiuquan , Dou Yanan , Yan Yiwen , Chen Leiying , Fei Zhou , Fei Fei
Published: November 2023

Retinal ischemia, after cerebral ischemia, is an easily overlooked pathophysiological problem in which inflammation is considered to play an important role. Pyroptosis is a kind of cell death pattern accompanied by inflammation. Homer scaffold protein 1 (Homer1) has anti-inflammation properties and protects against ischemic injury. However, little is known about pyroptosis following middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced retinal ischemia and the regulatory mechanisms involved by Homer1 for the development of pyroptosis. In the present study, retinal ischemic injury was induced in mice by permanent MCAO in vivo, and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) were subjected to Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation (OGD) to establish an in vitro model. It was shown that TXNIP/NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis was located predominantly in RGCs, which gradually increased after retinal ischemia and peaked at 24 h after retinal ischemia. Interestingly, the RGCs pyroptosis occurred not only in the cell body but also in the axon. Notably, the occurrence of pyroptosis coincided with the change of Homer1 expression in the retina after retinal ischemia and Homer1 also co-localized with RGCs. It was demonstrated that overexpression of Homer1 not only alleviated RGCs pyroptosis and inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory factors but also led to the increase in phosphorylation of AMPK, inhibition of ER stress, and preservation of visual function after retinal ischemia. In conclusion, it was suggested that Homer1 may protect against MCAO-induced retinal ischemia and RGCs pyroptosis by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome activation after MCAO-induced retinal ischemia.
Lovastatin Treatment Inducing Apoptosis in Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells by Inhibiting Cholesterol Rafts in Plasma Membrane and Mitochondria
Authors: Gyoten Momoko , Luo Yi , Fujiwara-Tani Rina , Mori Shiori , Ogata Ruiko , Kishi Shingo , Kuniyasu Hiroki
Published: November 2023

Resistance to anticancer drugs is a problem in the treatment of pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDAC) and overcoming it is an important issue. Recently, it has been reported that statins induce apoptosis in cancer cells but the mechanism has not been completely elucidated. We investigated the antitumor mechanisms of statins against PDAC and their impact on resistance to gemcitabine (GEM). Lovastatin (LOVA) increased mitochondrial oxidative stress in PDAC cells, leading to apoptosis. LOVA reduced lipid rafts in the plasma membrane and mitochondria, suppressed the activation of epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) and AKT in plasma membrane rafts, and reduced B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2)-Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX) binding and the translocation of F1F0 ATPase in mitochondrial rafts. In the three GEM-resistant cell lines derived from MIA and PANC1, the lipid rafts in the cell membrane and the mitochondria were increased to activate EGFR and AKT and to increase BCL2-BAX binding, which suppressed apoptosis. LOVA abrogated these anti-apoptotic effects by reducing the rafts in the resistant cells. By treating the resistant cells with LOVA, GEM sensitivity improved to the level of the parental cells. Therefore, cholesterol rafts contribute to drug resistance in PDAC. Further clinical research is warranted on overcoming anticancer drug resistance by statin-mediated intracellular cholesterol regulation.
Mid-Regional Proadrenomedullin in COVID-19—May It Act as a Predictor of Prolonged Cardiovascular Complications?
Authors: Pietraszko Paulina , Zorawski Marcin , Bielecka Emilia , Sielatycki Piotr , Zbroch Edyta
Published: November 2023

The rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic have both led to increased mortality rates, affecting public health and the global economy. Therefore, it is essential to find accessible, non-invasive prognostic markers capable of identifying patients at high risk. One encouraging avenue of exploration is the potential of mid-regional proadrenomedullin (MR-proADM) as a biomarker in various health conditions, especially in the context of CVD and COVID-19. MR-proADM presents the ability to predict mortality, heart failure, and adverse outcomes in CVD, offering promise for improved risk assessment and treatment strategies. On the other hand, an elevated MR-proADM level is associated with disease severity and cytokine storms in patients with COVID-19, making it a predictive indicator for intensive care unit admissions and mortality rates. Moreover, MR-proADM may have relevance in long COVID, aiding in the risk assessment, triage, and monitoring of individuals at increased risk of developing prolonged cardiac issues. Our review explores the potential of MR-proADM as a predictor of enduring cardiovascular complications following COVID-19 infection.
Sitagliptin Induces Tolerogenic Human Dendritic Cells
Authors: Drakul Marija , Tomić Sergej , Bekić Marina , Mihajlović Dušan , Vasiljević Miloš , Rakočević Sara , Đokić Jelena , Popović Nikola , Bokonjić Dejan , Čolić Miodrag
Published: November 2023

Sitagliptin, an anti-diabetic drug, is a dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4/CD26 inhibitor with additional anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. In this study, we investigated for the first time the effect of sitagliptin on the differentiation and functions of human dendritic cells generated from monocytes (MoDCs) for 4 days using the standard GM-CSF/IL-4 procedure. LPS/IFN-γ treatment for an additional 24 h was used for maturation induction of MoDCs. Sitagliptin was added at the highest non-cytotoxic concentration (500 µg/mL) either at the beginning (sita 0d protocol) or after MoDC differentiation (sita 4d protocol). Sitagliptin impaired differentiation and maturation of MoDCs as judged with the lower expression of CD40, CD83, CD86, NLRP3, and HLA-DR, retention of CD14 expression, and inhibited production of IL-β, IL-12p70, IL-23, and IL-27. In contrast, the expression of CD26, tolerogenic DC markers (ILT4 and IDO1), and production of immunoregulatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β) were increased. Generally, the sita 0d protocol was more efficient. Sitagliptin-treated MoDCs were poorer allostimulators of T-cells in MoDC/T-cell co-culture and inhibited Th1 and Th17 but augmented Th2 and Treg responses. Tolerogenic properties of sitagliptin-treated MoDCs were additionally confirmed by an increased frequency of CD4+CD25+CD127- FoxP3+ Tregs and Tr1 cells (CD4+IL-10+FoxP3-) in MoDC/T-cell co-culture. The differentiation of IL-10+ and TGF-β+ Tregs depended on the sitagliptin protocol used. A Western blot analysis showed that sitagliptin inhibited p65 expression of NF-kB and p38MAPK during the maturation of MoDCs. In conclusion, sitagliptin induces differentiation of tolerogenic DCs, and the effect is important when considering sitagliptin for treating autoimmune diseases and allotransplant rejection.