bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raman Multi-Omic Snapshots of Koshihikari Rice Kernels Reveal Important Molecular Diversities with Potential Benefits in Healthcare
Authors: Pezzotti Giuseppe , Tsubota Yusuke , Zhu Wenliang , Marin Elia , Masumura Takehiro , Kobayashi Takuya , Nakazaki Tetsuya
Published: October 2023

This study exploits quantitative algorithms of Raman spectroscopy to assess, at the molecular scale, the nutritional quality of individual kernels of the Japanese short-grain rice cultivar Koshihikari in terms of amylose-to-amylopectin ratio, fractions of phenylalanine and tryptophan aromatic amino acid residues, protein-to-carbohydrate ratio, and fractions of protein secondary structures. Statistical assessments on a large number of rice kernels reveal wide distributions of the above nutritional parameters over nominally homogeneous kernel batches. This demonstrates that genetic classifications cannot catch omic fluctuations, which are strongly influenced by a number of extrinsic factors, including the location of individual grass plants within the same rice field and the level of kernel maturation. The possibility of collecting nearly real-time Raman “multi-omic snapshots” of individual rice kernels allows for the automatic (low-cost) differentiation of groups of kernels with restricted nutritional characteristics that could be used in the formulation of functional foods for specific diseases and in positively modulating the intestinal microbiota for protection against bacterial infection and cancer prevention.
Genomic Selection for Dairy Cattle Behaviour Considering Novel Traits in a Changing Technical Production Environment
Authors: Behren Larissa Elisabeth , König Sven , May Katharina
Published: October 2023

Cow behaviour is a major factor influencing dairy herd profitability and is an indicator of animal welfare and disease. Behaviour is a complex network of behavioural patterns in response to environmental and social stimuli and human handling. Advances in agricultural technology have led to changes in dairy cow husbandry systems worldwide. Increasing herd sizes, less time availability to take care of the animals and modern technology such as automatic milking systems (AMSs) imply limited human–cow interactions. On the other hand, cow behaviour responses to the technical environment (cow–AMS interactions) simultaneously improve production efficiency and welfare and contribute to simplified “cow handling” and reduced labour time. Automatic milking systems generate objective behaviour traits linked to workability, milkability and health, which can be implemented into genomic selection tools. However, there is insufficient understanding of the genetic mechanisms influencing cow learning and social behaviour, in turn affecting herd management, productivity and welfare. Moreover, physiological and molecular biomarkers such as heart rate, neurotransmitters and hormones might be useful indicators and predictors of cow behaviour. This review gives an overview of published behaviour studies in dairy cows in the context of genetics and genomics and discusses possibilities for breeding approaches to achieve desired behaviour in a technical production environment.
Genome-Wide Detection of Copy Number Variations Associated with Miniature Features in Horses
Authors: Choudhury Md. Panir , Wang Zihao , Zhu Min , Teng Shaohua , Yan Jing , Cao Shuwei , Yi Guoqiang , Liu Yuwen , Liao Yuying , Tang Zhonglin
Published: October 2023

Copy number variations (CNVs) are crucial structural genomic variants affecting complex traits in humans and livestock animals. The current study was designed to conduct a comprehensive comparative copy number variation analysis among three breeds, Debao (DB), Baise (BS), and Warmblood (WB), with a specific focus on identifying genomic regions associated with miniature features in horses. Using whole-genome next-generation resequencing data, we identified 18,974 CNVs across 31 autosomes. Among the breeds, we found 4279 breed-specific CNV regions (CNVRs). Baise, Debao, and Warmblood displayed 2978, 986, and 895 distinct CNVRs, respectively, with 202 CNVRs shared across all three breeds. After removing duplicates, we obtained 1545 CNVRs from 26 horse genomes. Functional annotation reveals enrichment in biological functions, including antigen processing, cell metabolism, olfactory conduction, and nervous system development. Debao horses have 970 genes overlapping with CNVRs, possibly causing their small size and mountainous adaptations. We also found that the genes GHR, SOX9, and SOX11 may be responsible for the miniature features of the Debao horse by analyzing their overlapping CNVRs. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into the widespread presence of CNVs in the horse genome. The findings contribute to mapping horse CNVs and advance research on unique miniature traits observed in the Debao horse.
Molecular Mechanisms Involved in MAFLD in Cholecystectomized Patients: A Cohort Study
Authors: Pal Shreya C. , Castillo-Castañeda Stephany M. , Díaz-Orozco Luis E. , Ramírez-Mejía Mariana M. , Dorantes-Heredia Rita , Alonso-Morales Rogelio , Eslam Mohammed , Lammert Frank , Méndez-Sánchez Nahum
Published: October 2023

Gallstone disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) share numerous common risk factors and progression determinants in that they both manifest as organ-specific consequences of metabolic dysfunction. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying fibrosis development in cholecystectomized MAFLD patients remain inadequately defined. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of farnesoid X receptor 1 (FXR1) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) in the progression of fibrosis in cholecystectomized MAFLD patients. A meticulously characterized cohort of 12 patients diagnosed with MAFLD, who had undergone liver biopsies during programmed cholecystectomies, participated in this study. All enrolled patients underwent a follow-up regimen at 1, 3, and 6 months post-cholecystectomy, during which metabolic biochemical markers were assessed, along with elastography, which served as indirect indicators of fibrosis. Additionally, the hepatic expression levels of FGFR4 and FXR1 were quantified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Our findings revealed a robust correlation between hepatic FGFR4 expression and various histological features, including the steatosis degree (r = 0.779, p = 0.023), ballooning degeneration (r = 0.764, p = 0.027), interphase inflammation (r = 0.756, p = 0.030), and steatosis activity score (SAS) (r = 0.779, p = 0.023). Conversely, hepatic FXR1 expression did not exhibit any significant correlations with these histological features. In conclusion, our study highlights a substantial correlation between FGFR4 expression and histological liver damage, emphasizing its potential role in lipid and glucose metabolism. These findings suggest that FGFR4 may play a crucial role in the progression of fibrosis in cholecystectomized MAFLD patients. Further research is warranted to elucidate the exact mechanisms through which FGFR4 influences metabolic dysfunction and fibrosis in this patient population.
Genetic Diversity of Merozoite Surface Antigens in Global Babesia bovis Populations
Authors: El-Alfy El-Sayed , Abbas Ibrahim , Elseadawy Rana , El-Sayed Shimaa Abd El-Salam , Rizk Mohamed Abdo
Published: October 2023

Cattle can be severely infected with the tick-borne protozoa Babesia bovis, giving rise to serious economic losses. Invasion of the host’s RBCs by the parasite merozoite/sporozoites depends largely on the MSA (merozoite surface antigens) gene family, which comprises various fragments, e.g., MSA-1, MSA-2a1, MSA-2a2, MSA-2b and MSA-2c, highlighting the importance of these antigens as vaccine candidates. However, experimental trials documented the failure of some developed MSA-based vaccines to fully protect animals from B. bovis infection. One reason for this failure may be related to the genetic structure of the parasite. In the present study, all MSA-sequenced B. bovis isolates on the GenBank were collected and subjected to various analyses to evaluate their genetic diversity and population structure. The analyses were conducted on 199 MSA-1, 24 MSA-2a1, 193 MSA-2b and 148 MSA-2c isolates from geographically diverse regions. All these fragments displayed high nucleotide and haplotype diversities, but the MSA-1 was the most hypervariable and had the lowest inter- and intra-population gene flow values. This fragment also displayed a strong positive selection when testing its isolates for the natural selection, which suggests the potential occurrence of more genetic variations. On the contrary, the MSA-2c was the most conserved in comparison to the other fragments, and displayed the highest inter- and intra-population gene flow values, which was evidenced by a significantly negative selection and negative neutrality indices (Fu’s Fs and Tajima’s D). The majority of the MSA-2c tested isolates had two conserved amino acid repeats, and earlier reports have found these repeats to be highly immunogenic, which underlines the importance of this fragment in developing vaccines against B. bovis. Results of the MSA-2a1 analyses were also promising, but many more MSA-2a1 sequenced isolates are required to validating this assumption. The genetic analyses conducted for the MSA-2b fragment displayed borderline values when compared to the other fragments.
Uncovering the Work–Family Interface: The Impact of Facilitators and Stressors on the Health of Farm Women
Authors: Mora-Guerrero Gloria , Herrera-González Fernanda , Constanzo-Belmar Jorge , Alveal-Álamos Carolina , Viscardi Sharon
Published: October 2023

Work–family interface (WFI) theory has identified many stressors that influence work–family dynamics from the standpoint of employees. However, work–family facilitators, as well as the effects of gender differences and the impact of sociocultural environments that differ from a formal employment situation, have received much less attention. Our research aimed to fill these theoretical gaps by analyzing the facilitators and stressors involved in work–family dynamics and determining their consequences for farm women’s physical, psychological, and social health. We used a qualitative method with a grounded theory design to collect data via semi-structured interviews with 46 farm women from the region of Araucanía in Chile. Our results explain how facilitators, stressors, and outcomes take place in a process of work–family balance that, paradoxically, implies exhausting journeys, a gender-based overload, a risk of diffuse body pain and distress, and a lack of time for personal healthcare and productive autonomy. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach involving improved healthcare infrastructure and services focused on changing the pressures that the farming WFI exerts on rural women.
Analysis of Costs per Responder in US Adults with Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria with a Suboptimal Response to Prior Eculizumab Treatment
Authors: Fishman Jesse , Anderson Seri , Talbird Sandra E. , Dingli David
Published: October 2023

European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) hematologic response categories comprehensively assess complement inhibitor responses in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). Using data from the 16-week randomized controlled period of the phase 3 PEGASUS trial (N = 80), we estimated the treatment cost per responder by the EBMT response category for pegcetacoplan and eculizumab in adults with PNH and a suboptimal response to eculizumab. Average drug costs per responder, number needed to treat, and incremental drug costs per responder were estimated using dosages administered during the trial (base case). A US payer perspective (2020 US dollars) was used. Scenario analyses were conducted for various costs, dosages, treatment durations, patient populations, and settings. In total, 30 of 41 (73%) who switched to pegcetacoplan and 2 of 39 (5%) patients who continued eculizumab had a good, major, or complete response (good-to-complete responders) at Week 16. Average weekly drug costs per good-to-complete responder were USD 15,923 with pegcetacoplan and USD 216,100 with eculizumab; average weekly drug costs per patient were USD 11,651 and USD 11,082, respectively. Average drug costs per good-to-complete responder with pegcetacoplan were similar across complement inhibitor-naïve populations and were consistently lower than with eculizumab. Switching from eculizumab to pegcetacoplan allowed more patients with a suboptimal response to attain a good-to-complete response at lower costs. These results apply to patients with a suboptimal response to prior eculizumab treatment only.
Assessment of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Conditions in Public Elementary Schools in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Pieters Michelle M. , Fahsen Natalie , Craig Christina , Quezada Ramiro , Pratt Caroline Q. , Gomez Andrea , Brown Travis W. , Kossik Alexandra , McDavid Kelsey , Vega Ocasio Denisse , Lozier Matthew J. , Cordón-Rosales Celia
Published: October 2023

Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in schools are essential to reduce infectious disease transmission, including that of COVID-19. This study aimed to establish a baseline of WASH services in six public elementary schools in Guatemala, with a focus on hand hygiene. We used the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP) report indicators to assess the WASH infrastructure at each school. We collected water samples from easily accessible water points (pilas, or bathroom sinks) at each school to test for the presence of total coliforms and E. coli. In-depth interviews were carried out with teachers to understand hand hygiene practices and systems at school. Results indicate that all schools had water available at the time of the survey. All water samples at four schools tested positive for total coliforms and at one school, positive for E. coli. All schools had sanitation facilities, but services were limited. Only 43% of handwashing stations at schools had soap available. No school had disability-inclusive WASH services. Financial constraints and a lack of appropriate WASH infrastructure were the main barriers reported by teachers to meet hand hygiene needs at school. Appropriate access to WASH infrastructure and supplies could increase hand hygiene practices and improve learning conditions for students.
The “Why” in Mental Health, Stigma, and Addictive Behaviors: Causal Inferences in Applied Settings
Authors: Sánchez-Iglesias Iván
Published: October 2023

Mental health problems, broadly understood, are highly prevalent [...]
Visioning an Effective Health Encounter: Indigenous Healthcare Experiences and Recommendations for Health Professionals
Authors: Lewis Melissa E. , Wildcat Sky , Anderson Amber
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Indigenous patients experience challenges while accessing and utilizing healthcare services that relate to worsened health experiences. Bias towards Indigenous patients is prevalent in healthcare settings and leads to poor health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to learn about the healthcare experiences, both positive and negative, of Indigenous patients and solicit subsequent recommendations to improve care delivered to this population. Methods: This study sampled Indigenous patients (n = 20) from an Indigenous-serving health clinic to discuss participants’ health experiences and elicit recommendations for improved care. Four focus groups were conducted, and template analysis was employed to analyze the data. Results: A total of 15 themes were developed under the category of an effective health encounter. Highlighted themes include healthcare that is free of stigma, quality care, respecting trauma experiences, expanded integrated care and the patient–provider relationship. Based on participant recommendations, a checklist was created for healthcare professionals to improve care delivery to Indigenous patients. Results indicated that bias in healthcare settings may masquerade as poor clinical care but is really founded in biased beliefs and healthcare delivery. Alternatively, when patients received good quality care, their healthcare outcomes improved. Further, effective healthcare incorporates culture, family, tribe, and community and addresses these aspects of health in both clinical and systemic settings. Conclusions: With some of the largest proportions of health disparities and bias experiences in the US, it is critical that healthcare delivered to Indigenous patients incorporate culturally safe care to regain dignity and improve health outcomes for this population.
Biochemical Responses to the Long-Term Impact of Copper Sulfate (CuSO4) in Tobacco Plants
Authors: Tugbaeva Anastasia S. , Ermoshin Alexander A. , Kiseleva Irina S.
Published: October 2023

Metabolic changes under stress are often studied in short-term experiments, revealing rapid responses in gene expression, enzyme activity, and the amount of antioxidants. In a long-term experiment, it is possible to identify adaptive changes in both primary and secondary metabolism. In this study, we characterized the physiological state of tobacco plants and assessed the amount and spectrum of phenolic compounds and the lignification of axial organs under excess copper stress in a long-term experiment (40 days). Plants were treated with 100 and 300 μM CuSO4, as well as a control (Knop solution). Copper accumulation, the size and anatomical structure of organs, stress markers, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes were studied. Lignin content was determined with the cysteine-assisted sulfuric method (CASA), and the metabolite profile and phenolic spectrum were determined with UHPLC-MS and thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Cu2+ mainly accumulated in the roots and, to a lesser extent, in the shoots. Copper sulfate (100 μM) slightly stimulated stem and leaf growth. A higher concentration (300 μM) caused oxidative stress; H2O2 content, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and guaiacol peroxidase (GPOX) activity increased in roots, and malondialdehyde (MDA) increased in all organs. The deposition of lignin increased in the roots and stems compared with the control. The content of free phenolics, which could be used as substrates for lignification, declined. The proportions of ferulic, cinnamic, and p-coumaric acids in the hydrolysate of bound phenolics were higher, and they tended toward additional lignification. The metabolic profile changed in both roots and stems at both concentrations, and changed in leaves only at a concentration of 300 μM. Thus, changes in the phenolic spectrum and the enhanced lignification of cell walls in the metaxylem of axial (root and stem) organs in tobacco can be considered important metabolic responses to stress caused by excess CuSO4.
Raman Spectroscopy as a Potential Adjunct of Thyroid Nodule Evaluation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kujdowicz Monika , Januś Dominika , Taczanowska-Niemczuk Anna , Lankosz Marek W. , Adamek Dariusz
Published: October 2023

The incidence of thyroid nodules (TNs) is estimated at 36.5% and 23% in females and males, respectively. A single thyroid nodule is usually detected during ultrasound assessment in patients with symptoms of thyroid dysfunction or neck mass. TNs are classified as benign tumours (non-malignant hyperplasia), benign neoplasms (e.g., adenoma, a non-invasive follicular tumour with papillary nuclear features) or malignant carcinomas (follicular cell-derived or C-cell derived). The differential diagnosis is based on fine-needle aspiration biopsies and cytological assessment (which is burdened with the bias of subjectivity). Raman spectroscopy (RS) is a laser-based, semiquantitative technique which shows for oscillations of many chemical groups in one label-free measurement. RS, through the assessment of chemical content, gives insight into tissue state which, in turn, allows for the differentiation of disease on the basis of spectral characteristics. The purpose of this study was to report if RS could be useful in the differential diagnosis of TN. The Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus were searched from the beginning of the databases up to the end of June 2023. Two investigators independently screened key data using the terms “Raman spectroscopy” and “thyroid”. From the 4046 records found initially, we identified 19 studies addressing the differential diagnosis of TNs applying the RS technique. The lasers used included 532, 633, 785, 830, and 1064 nm lines. The thyroid RS investigations were performed at the cellular and/or tissue level, as well as in serum samples. The accuracy of papillary thyroid carcinoma detection is approx. 90%. Furthermore, medullary, and follicular thyroid carcinoma can be detected with up to 100% accuracy. These results might be biased with low numbers of cases in some research and overfitting of models as well as the reference method. The main biochemical changes one can observe in malignancies are as follows: increase of protein, amino acids (like phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan), and nucleic acid content in comparison with non-malignant TNs. Herein, we present a review of the literature on the application of RS in the differential diagnosis of TNs. This technique seems to have powerful application potential in thyroid tumour diagnosis.
Studying the Association of TKS4 and CD2AP Scaffold Proteins and Their Implications in the Partial Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) Process
Authors: Kurilla Anita , László Loretta , Takács Tamás , Tilajka Álmos , Lukács Laura , Novák Julianna , Pancsa Rita , Buday László , Vas Virág
Published: October 2023

Colon cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Identification of new molecular factors governing the invasiveness of colon cancer holds promise in developing screening and targeted therapeutic methods. The Tyrosine Kinase Substrate with four SH3 domains (TKS4) and the CD2-associated protein (CD2AP) have previously been linked to dynamic actin assembly related processes and cancer cell migration, although their co-instructive role during tumor formation remained unknown. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the TKS4-CD2AP interaction and study the interdependent effect of TKS4/CD2AP on oncogenic events. We identified CD2AP as a novel TKS4 interacting partner via co-immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry methods. The interaction was validated via Western blot (WB), immunocytochemistry (ICC) and proximity ligation assay (PLA). The binding motif of CD2AP was explored via peptide microarray. To uncover the possible cooperative effects of TKS4 and CD2AP in cell movement and in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), we performed gene silencing and overexpressing experiments. Our results showed that TKS4 and CD2AP form a scaffolding protein complex and that they can regulate migration and EMT-related pathways in HCT116 colon cancer cells. This is the first study demonstrating the TKS4-CD2AP protein–protein interaction in vitro, their co-localization in intact cells, and their potential interdependent effects on partial-EMT in colon cancer.
The Accumulation of Volatile Compounds and the Change in the Morphology of the Leaf Wax Cover Accompanied the “Anti-Aging” Effect in Anethum graveolens L. Plants Sprayed with 6-Benzylaminopurine
Authors: Shirokova Anna V. , Dmitriev Lev B. , Belopukhov Sergey L. , Dmitrieva Valeria L. , Danilova Irina L. , Kharchenko Viktor A. , Pekhova Olga A. , Myagkih Elena F. , Tsitsilin Andrey N. , Gulevich Alexander A. , Zhuravleva Ekaterina V. , Kostanchuk Yulia N. , Baranova Ekaterina N.
Published: October 2023

Essential oils (EOs) are of commercial importance for medicine, food, cosmetics, the perfume industry, and agriculture. In plants, EOs, like the wax cover, serve as protection against abiotic stresses, such as high temperatures and water deficiency. The use of spraying with exogenous hormones of aromatic plants affects the accumulation and composition of volatile compounds, as well as tolerance to abiotic stress. As a result of cytokinin treatment with 6-BAP (6-benzylaminopurine) (200 mg L−l) of Anetum graveolens L. “Uzory” and “Rusich” varieties, several responses to its action were revealed: a change in the division of leaf blades, inhibition of flowering, an increase in the content of EO and its main components α-phellandrene and p-cymene in leaves, and limonene in umbels and fruits. It was revealed that the increased accumulation of EO in dill leaves was longer with sufficient moisture. In contrast, under conditions of heat and water deficiency, the effect of 6-BAP treatment on accumulations of the EO in leaves was short-lived and did not appear on umbels and fruits. The study of the cytokinin effect on a fine structure of a wax cover on the adaxial side of leaves by scanning electron microscopy revealed a change in its elements (from amorphous layers with scales to thin tubules), which probably increased the sensitivity of leaves to water deficiency and, consequently, led to a decrease in the biosynthetic activity of leaf tissue. Thus, 6-BAP had an impact on the adaptive properties of dill plants, prolonging the “youth” of vegetative organs and the ability to EO biosynthesis under conditions of sufficient moisture.
Biological Evaluation of 8-Methoxy-2,5-dimethyl-5H-indolo[2,3-b] Quinoline as a Potential Antitumor Agent via PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling
Authors: Ma Yunhao , Zhu Hongmei , Jiang Xinrong , Zhou Zhongkun , Zhou Yong , Tian Yanan , Zhang Hao , Sun Mengze , Tu Lixue , Lu Juan , Niu Yuqing , Liu Huanxiang , Liu Yingqian , Chen Peng
Published: October 2023

Chemotherapy is commonly used clinically to treat colorectal cancer, but it is usually prone to drug resistance, so novel drugs need to be developed continuously to treat colorectal cancer. Neocryptolepine derivatives have attracted a lot of attention because of their good cytotoxic activity; however, cytotoxicity studies on colorectal cancer cells are scarce. In this study, the cytotoxicity of 8-methoxy-2,5-dimethyl-5H-indolo[2,3-b] quinoline (MMNC) in colorectal cells was evaluated. The results showed that MMNC inhibits the proliferation of HCT116 and Caco-2 cells, blocks the cell cycle in the G2/M phase, decreases the cell mitochondrial membrane potential and induces apoptosis. In addition, the results of western blot experiments suggest that MMNC exerts cytotoxicity by inhibiting the expression of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway-related proteins. Based on these results, MMNC is a promising lead compound for anticancer activity in the treatment of human colorectal cancer.
Degenerative and Regenerative Actin Cytoskeleton Rearrangements, Cell Death, and Paradoxical Proliferation in the Gills of Pearl Gourami (Trichogaster leerii) Exposed to Suspended Soot Microparticles
Authors: Sudakov Nikolay P. , Chang Hung-Ming , Renn Ting-Yi , Klimenkov Igor V.
Published: October 2023

The effect is studied of water-suspended soot microparticles on the actin cytoskeleton, apoptosis, and proliferation in the gill epithelium of pearl gourami. To this end, the fish are kept in aquariums with 0.005 g/L of soot for 5 and 14 days. Laser confocal microscopy is used to find that at the analyzed times of exposure to the pollutant zones appear in the gill epithelium, where the actin framework of adhesion belts dissociates and F-actin either forms clumps or concentrates perinuclearly. It is shown that the exposure to soot microparticles enhances apoptosis. On day 5, suppression of the proliferation of cells occurs, but the proliferation increases to the control values on day 14. Such a paradoxical increase in proliferation may be a compensatory process, maintaining the necessary level of gill function under the exposure to toxic soot. This process may occur until the gills’ recovery reserve is exhausted. In general, soot microparticles cause profound changes in the actin cytoskeleton in gill cells, greatly enhance cell death, and influence cell proliferation as described. Together, these processes may cause gill dysfunction and affect the viability of fish.
Leptin Promotes the Proliferation and Neuronal Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells through the Cooperative Action of MAPK/ERK1/2, JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways
Authors: Tan Ruolan , Hu Xiaoxuan , Wang Xinyi , Sun Meiqi , Cai Zhenlu , Zhang Zixuan , Fu Yali , Chen Xinlin , An Jing , Lu Haixia
Published: October 2023

The potential of neural stem cells (NSCs) for neurological disorders the treatment has relied in large part upon identifying the NSCs fate decision. The hormone leptin has been reported to be a crucial regulator of brain development, able to influence the glial and neural development, yet, the underlying mechanism of leptin acting on NSCs’ biological characteristics is still poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the role of leptin in the biological properties of NSCs. In this study, we investigate the possibility that leptin may regulate the NSCs’ fate decision, which may promote the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of NSCs and thus act positively in neurological disorders. NSCs from the embryonic cerebral cortex were used in this study. We used CCK-8 assay, ki67 immunostaining, and FACS analysis to confirm that 25–100 ng/mL leptin promotes the proliferation of NSCs in a concentration-dependent pattern. This change was accompanied by the upregulation of p-AKT and p-ERK1/2, which are the classical downstream signaling pathways of leptin receptors b (LepRb). Inhibition of PI3K/AKT or MAPK/ERK signaling pathways both abolished the effect of leptin-induced proliferation. Moreover, leptin also enhanced the directed neuronal differentiation of NSCs. A blockade of the PI3K/AKT pathway reversed leptin-stimulated neurogenesis, while a blockade of JAK2/STAT3 had no effect on it. Taken together, our results support a role for leptin in regulating the fate of NSCs differentiation and promoting NSCs proliferation, which could be a promising approach for brain repair via regulating the biological characteristics of NSCs.
Dysfunction of the Neurovascular Unit by Psychostimulant Drugs
Authors: Vo Tam Thuy Lu , Shin Dain , Ha Eunyoung , Seo Ji Hae
Published: October 2023

‘Drug abuse’ has been recognized as one of the most pressing epidemics in contemporary society. Traditional research has primarily focused on understanding how drugs induce neurotoxicity or degeneration within the central nervous system (CNS) and influence systems related to reward, motivation, and cravings. However, recent investigations have increasingly shifted their attention toward the detrimental consequences of drug abuse on the blood–brain barrier (BBB). The BBB is a structural component situated in brain vessels, responsible for separating brain tissue from external substances to maintain brain homeostasis. The BBB’s function is governed by cellular interactions involving various elements of the ‘neurovascular unit (NVU),’ such as neurons, endothelial cells, astrocytes, pericytes, and microglia. Disruption of the NVU is closely linked to serious neurodegeneration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the harmful effects of psychostimulant drugs on the BBB, highlighting the mechanisms through which drugs can damage the NVU. Additionally, the review proposes novel therapeutic targets aimed at protecting the BBB. By understanding the intricate relationships between drug abuse, BBB integrity, and NVU function, researchers and clinicians may uncover new strategies to mitigate the damaging impact of drug abuse on brain health.
Immunohistochemical Analysis of Knee Chondral Defect Repair after Autologous Particulated Cartilage and Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment in Sheep
Authors: Alcaide-Ruggiero Lourdes , Molina-Hernández Verónica , Morgaz Juan , Fernández-Sarmiento J. Andrés , Granados María M. , Navarrete-Calvo Rocío , Pérez José , Quirós-Carmona Setefilla , Carrillo José M. , Cugat Ramón , Domínguez Juan M.
Published: October 2023

This study performs an analysis that will enable the evaluation of the quality, durability, and structure of repaired cartilaginous extracellular matrix tissue using an autologous-based particulated autograft cartilage and platelet-rich plasma treatment (PACI + PRP). A single-blind controlled experiment was conducted on 28 sheep to evaluate the efficacy of the PACI + PRP treatment for cartilage defects. Full-thickness 8 mm diameter defects were created in the weight-bearing area of both knees. The right knees received PACI + PRP. The left knees were treated with Ringer’s lactate solution (RLS) or hyaluronic acid (HA) injections. Sheep were euthanized at 9- or 18-months post-surgery. An extensive immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess collagen types (I, II, III, V, VI, IX, X, XI) and aggrecan positivity. A semiquantitative scoring system provided a detailed evaluation of immunostaining. Collagens and aggrecan scores in the PACI + PRP groups were similar to healthy cartilage. Significant differences were found in collagens associated with matrix maturity (II and V), degradation (IX), structure and mechanics (VI), and hypertrophy (X) between healthy cartilage and RLS- or HA-repaired cartilage. The PACI + PRP treatment advanced the repair cartilage process in chondral defects with mature hyaline cartilage and enhanced the structural and mechanical qualities with better consistent cartilage, less susceptible to degradation and without hypertrophic formation over time.
New Dawn for Atherosclerosis: Vascular Endothelial Cell Senescence and Death
Authors: Bu Lan-Lan , Yuan Huan-Huan , Xie Ling-Li , Guo Min-Hua , Liao Duan-Fang , Zheng Xi-Long
Published: October 2023

Endothelial cells (ECs) form the inner linings of blood vessels, and are directly exposed to endogenous hazard signals and metabolites in the circulatory system. The senescence and death of ECs are not only adverse outcomes, but also causal contributors to endothelial dysfunction, an early risk marker of atherosclerosis. The pathophysiological process of EC senescence involves both structural and functional changes and has been linked to various factors, including oxidative stress, dysregulated cell cycle, hyperuricemia, vascular inflammation, and aberrant metabolite sensing and signaling. Multiple forms of EC death have been documented in atherosclerosis, including autophagic cell death, apoptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms underlying EC senescence or death in atherogenesis are not fully understood. To provide a comprehensive update on the subject, this review examines the historic and latest findings on the molecular mechanisms and functional alterations associated with EC senescence and death in different stages of atherosclerosis.
Immunohistochemical Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Expression in Human Insulinomas
Authors: Vesterinen Tiina , Peltola Elina , Leijon Helena , Hannula Päivi , Huhtala Heini , Mäkinen Markus J. , Nieminen Lasse , Pirinen Elina , Rönty Mikko , Söderström Mirva , Jaatinen Pia , Arola Johanna
Published: October 2023

Insulinomas are rare functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours, which metastasize in 10% of cases. As predicting the prognosis can be challenging, there is a need for the determination of clinicopathological factors associated with metastatic potential. The aim of this study is to evaluate the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) expression in insulinomas and to analyse its association with clinicopathological features and patient outcome. This retrospective study involves pancreatic tumour tissue samples from fifty-two insulinoma patients. After histological re-evaluation, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples were processed into tissue microarrays and stained immunohistochemically with a monoclonal GLP-1R antibody. Forty-eight of the forty-nine (98%) non-metastatic tumours expressed GLP-1R, while one non-metastatic, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)-related tumour and all three of the metastatic tumours lacked GLP-1R expression. The lack of GLP-1R expression was associated with impaired overall survival, larger tumour diameter, higher Ki-67 PI and weaker insulin staining. Somatostatin receptor 1–5 expression did not differ between GLP-1R-positive and GLP-1R-negative insulinomas. In conclusion, the lack of GLP-1R expression is associated with metastatic disease and impaired survival in insulinoma patients. Thus, GLP-1R expression could be a useful biomarker in estimating the metastatic potential of the tumour and the prognosis of surgically treated patients.
Neural Network Applications in Polygraph Scoring—A Scoping Review
Authors: Rad Dana , Paraschiv Nicolae , Kiss Csaba
Published: October 2023

Polygraph tests have been used for many years as a means of detecting deception, but their accuracy has been the subject of much debate. In recent years, researchers have explored the use of neural networks in polygraph scoring to improve the accuracy of deception detection. The purpose of this scoping review is to offer a comprehensive overview of the existing research on the subject of neural network applications in scoring polygraph tests. A total of 57 relevant papers were identified and analyzed for this review. The papers were examined for their research focus, methodology, results, and conclusions. The scoping review found that neural networks have shown promise in improving the accuracy of polygraph tests, with some studies reporting significant improvements over traditional methods. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and to determine the most effective ways of integrating neural networks into polygraph testing. The scoping review concludes with a discussion of the current state of the field and suggestions for future research directions.
How Effective Are Push–Pull Semiochemicals as Deterrents for Bark Beetles? A Global Meta-Analysis of Thirty Years of Research
Authors: Afzal Somia , Nahrung Helen F. , Lawson Simon A. , Hayes Richard Andrew
Published: October 2023

Bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) are among the most damaging tree pests globally. Rising temperatures, drought, fire, storms, cyclones, and poor forest management cause stress and loss of vigour in trees, and these conditions favour bark beetle outbreaks. While research has been conducted on push–pull strategies to deter bark beetles, using attractive and deterrent semiochemicals, the potential of this strategy to reduce bark beetle populations, particularly in the genera Dendroctonus and Ips, remains uncertain. Here, we conducted a global meta-analysis of 52 research articles to quantify the effects of semiochemical treatments on managing different species of Dendroctonus and Ips for forest protection. Based on this analysis, we found that push–pull semiochemicals can significantly reduce Dendroctonus and Ips populations measured by a reduction in the attraction to lure/trap catches, tree mortality, and attacks on trees. The overall efficacy of the push–pull semiochemical treatment shows a 66% reduction for Ips compared to control and a 54% reduction compared to control for Dendroctonus, while, at the species level, there was a 69% reduction for Dendroctonus ponderosae (Hopkins) and a 94% reduction in Ips perturbatus (Eichhoff), and a 93% reduction in Ips latidens (LeConte). Interestingly, among different treatment sources, the efficacy of conspecific semiochemicals in combination with heterospecific semiochemicals and non-host volatiles showed a 92% reduction in Dendroctonus spp., and conspecific semiochemicals in combination with non-host volatiles showed a 77% significant reduction in Ips spp., while the efficacy of heterospecific semiochemicals in reducing Ips population was about 69%, and 20% in Dendroctonus. Among different ecological regions, the use of a push–pull strategy showed a 70% reduction in Dendroctonus in central-west North America, and Ips showed a 75% reduction in southwest North America. Our results demonstrate that semiochemical-based push–pull techniques have the potential to reduce Dendroctonus and Ips bark beetle populations. Furthermore, based on our analysis, the efficacy of such eco-friendly interventions could be further improved and provide a good tool for forest managers to control these pests, at least under some circumstances.
Differences in Bacterial Growth and Mortality between Seagrass Meadows and Adjacent Unvegetated Areas
Authors: Chen Patrichka Wei-Yi , Olivia Madeline , Chou Wen-Chen , Shiu Ruei-Feng , Mukhanov Vladimir , Tsai An-Yi
Published: October 2023

A seagrass meadow is one of the most important ecosystems around the world, both economically and ecologically. An important feature of this ecosystem is the presence of large coastal seagrass beds, which dominate the primary production and contribute to the secondary productivity of the ecosystem. The microbial loop (consuming bacterial biomass by grazers and using seagrass-derived detritus by bacteria) may be an important mechanism for transferring seagrass-derived organic matter to aquatic food chains. The goal of this study is to gain a better understanding of how bacterial growth and mortality (grazing and viral lysis rates) differ in unvegetated meadow habitats and seagrass habitats. According to this study, DOC levels were higher in seagrass habitats (1685 g L−1) than in unvegetated water surroundings. The instantaneous growth rate of bacteria in seagrass habitats was 2.05 d−1, higher than that of unvegetated water. In a seagrass environment during the summer, we have found that viral lysis and grazing both result in similar mortality rates of bacteria during the summer season. It has been found, however, that bacterial production is controlled by the availability of resources (bottom-up control) in adjacent unvegetated waters, and is thus cycled internally within the bacteria–virus–DOC loop within those waters.
The Impact of Metabolic Factors and Lipid-Lowering Drugs on Common Bile Duct Stone Recurrence after Endoscopic Sphincterotomy with Following Cholecystectomy
Authors: Wang Sheng-Fu , Wu Chi-Huan , Sung Kai-Feng , Tsou Yung-Kuan , Lin Cheng-Hui , Lee Chao-Wei , Lee Mu-Hsien , Liu Nai-Jen
Published: October 2023

Background: Recurrent common bile duct stone after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is an undesirable problem, even when a following cholecystectomy is carried out. Important factors are the composition and properties of stones; the most significant etiology among these is the lipid level. While numerous studies have established the association between serum lipid levels and gallstones, no study has previously reported on recurrent common bile duct stones after endoscopic sphincterotomy with following cholecystectomy. Materials and methods: We retrospectively collected 2016 patients underwent endoscopic sphincterotomy from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2017 in Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Finally, 303 patients whose serum lipid levels had been checked following a cholecystectomy after ERCP were included for analysis. We evaluated if metabolic factors including body weight, BMI, HbA1C, serum lipid profile, and lipid-lowering drugs may impact the rate of common bile duct stone recurrence. Furthermore, we tried to find if there is any factor that may impact time to recurrence. Results: A serum HDL level ≥ 40 (p = 0.000, OR = 0.207, 95% CI = 0.114–0.376) is a protective factor, and a total cholesterol level ≥ 200 (p = 0.004, OR = 4.558, 95% CI = 1.625–12.787) is a risk factor of recurrent common bile duct stones after endoscopic sphincterotomy with cholecystectomy. Lipid-lowering drugs, specifically statins, have been shown to reduce the risk of recurrence significantly (p = 0.003, OR = 0.297, 95% CI = 0.132–0.665). No factors were found to impact the time to recurrence in this study. Conclusions: The serum lipid level could influence the recurrence of common bile duct stones after endoscopic sphincterotomy followed by cholecystectomy, and it appears that statins can reduce the risk of recurrence.
Correction: Tran et al. Delayed Maturation of Oligodendrocyte Progenitors by Microgravity: Implications for Multiple Sclerosis and Space Flight. Life 2022, 12, 797
Authors: Tran Victoria , Carpo Nicholas , Shaka Sophia , Zamudio Joile , Choi Sungshin , Cepeda Carlos , Espinosa-Jeffrey Araceli
Published: October 2023

The authors wish to make the following corrections to Figure 10 of this paper [...]
The Effects of Silica Fume and Superplasticizer Type on the Properties and Microstructure of Reactive Powder Concrete
Authors: Šoukal František , Bocian Luboš , Novotný Radoslav , Dlabajová Lucie , Šuleková Nikola , Hajzler Jan , Koutný Ondřej , Drdlová Martina
Published: October 2023

This paper deals with the optimization of reactive powder concrete mixtures with respect to the addition of silica fume and the type of polycarboxylate superplasticizer used. First, the properties of reactive powder concrete with eight different commercial polycarboxylate superplasticizers were tested in terms of workability, specific weight, and mechanical properties. It was found that different commercially available superplasticizers had significant effects on the slump flow, specific weight, and compressive and flexural strengths. The optimal superplasticizer (BASF ACE430) was selected for further experiments in order to evaluate the influences of silica fume and superplasticizer content on the same material properties. The results showed that the silica fume and superplasticizer content had considerable effects on the mini-cone slump flow value, specific weight, flexural and compressive strengths, and microstructure. There were clearly visible trends and local minima and maxima of the measured properties. The optimal reactive powder concrete mixture had a composition of 3.5–4.0% superplasticizer and 15–25% silica fume.
Advantages of Ferroelectrics as a Component of Heterostructures for Electronic Purposes: A DFT Insight
Authors: Piyanzina Irina , Evseev Alexander , Evseev Kirill , Mamin Rinat , Nedopekin Oleg , Tayurskii Dmitrii , Kabanov Viktor
Published: October 2023

The main advantage of using ferroelectric materials as a component of complex heterostructures is the ability to tune various properties of the whole system by means of an external electric field. In particular, the electric field may change the polarization direction within the ferroelectric material and consequently affect the structural properties, which in turn affects the electronic and magnetic properties of the neighboring material. In addition, ferroelectrics allow the electrostriction phenomenon to proceed, which is promising and can be used to affect the magnetic states of the interface state in the heterostructure through a magnetic component. The interfacial phenomena are of great interest, as they provide extended functionality useful for next-generation electronic devices. Following the idea of utilizing ferroelectrics in heterostructural components in the present works, we consider 2DEG, the Rashba effect, the effect of magnetoelectric coupling, and magnetostriction in order to emphasize the advantages of such heterostructures as components of devices. For this purpose, model systems of LaMnO3/BaTiO3, La2CuO4/BaTiO3, Bi/BaTiO3, and Bi/PbTiO3, Fe/BaTiO3 heterostructures are investigated using density functional theory calculations.