bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenolic Content and Bioactivity as Geographical Classifiers of Propolis from Stingless Bees in Southeastern Mexico
Authors: Ruiz Ruiz Jorge Carlos , Pacheco López Neith Aracely , Rejón Méndez Estephania Guadalupe , Samos López Felipe Antonio , Medina Medina Luis , Quezada-Euán José Javier G.
Published: March 2023

Propolis collected by stingless bees is a valuable biocultural resource and a source of bioactive compounds. Methodologies to establish both the geographic origin and the potential pharmacological activity of propolis of stingless bees are required to regulate their sustainable use. The aim of this study was to classify Melipona beecheii propolis according to its phenolic compound content and potential pharmacological activity, using in vitro assays and statistical methodologies of multivariate analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and principal component analysis. Propolis samples were collected from seven states in southeastern Mexico. Total phenolic content and flavonoids were determined spectrophotometrically, and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities were evaluated. Both total phenolic content and flavonoids, and in vitro bioactivity potential of propolis extracts showed significant variations. Multivariate analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and principal component analysis enabled us to distinguish and classify propolis produced by M. beecheii according to similarity in terms of total phenolic content, in vitro bioactivity potential, and geographical origin. This strategy could be used to establish regulations for sustainable use, marketing, and industrial applications.
Do Farm Subsidies Effectively Increase Grain Production? Evidence from Major Grain-Producing Regions of China
Authors: Yang Tingwei , Chandio Abbas Ali , Zhang Aopeng , Liu Yan
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of agricultural subsidies on grain production in major grain-producing regions. We use an empirical model and data from fixed observation points in rural areas collected by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs in 2016–2017. Our findings show that agricultural subsidies in major grain-producing regions have significantly increased rural household grain yield. Furthermore, findings show that agricultural subsidies and the cost of fertilizer and pesticides for rural households have a mediating effect on grain production. In addition, the effect of agricultural subsidies varies by type: income subsidies have a greater promotion effect on grain production, whereas subsidies for purchasing agricultural machinery have no significant promotion effect on grain production. These findings show that agricultural subsidies promote grain production in China’s major grain-producing regions, and have a mediating effect on different types of subsidies.
Allelic Variation of Glu-A1 and Glu-B1 Genes in Winter Durum Wheat and Its Effect on Quality Parameters
Authors: Kroupina Aleksandra Yu. , Yanovsky Aleksey S. , Korobkova Varvara A. , Bespalova Ludmila A. , Arkhipov Andrey V. , Bukreeva Galina I. , Voropaeva Anastasiya D. , Kroupin Pavel Yu. , Litvinov Dmitry Y. , Mudrova Aleksandra A. , Ulyanov Daniil S. , Karlov Gennady I. , Divashuk Mikhail G.
Published: March 2023

Winter durum wheat is a relatively young crop that is highly adaptable due to its winter type of growth habit. The priority of breeding and genetic improvement of winter durum wheat is to improve grain quality and pasta quality, largely determined by the glutenin storage proteins. In the present study, a collection of 76 accessions of winter durum wheat from P.P. Lukyanenko National Grain Centre was studied. The allelic state of high-molecular-weight glutenin genes, Glu-A1 and Glu-B1, using PCR markers and SDS-PAGE was identified and grain and pasta quality traits were assessed in a two-year field experiment. The positive effect of the Glu-A1a allele and a negative effect of Glu-A1c on the gluten index were shown. It was found that Glu-B1al and Glu-B1f have a positive effect on the quality and quantity of protein and gluten, while the Glu-A1c + Glu-B1al genotypes were closest to the high-quality category in protein-associated quality traits.
The Application of High-Resolution Melting Analysis to trnL (UAA) Intron Allowed a Qualitative Identification of Apple Juice Adulterations
Authors: Monterisi Sonia , Zuluaga Monica Yorlady Alzate , Porceddu Andrea , Cesco Stefano , Pii Youry
Published: March 2023

Food authenticity plays a pivotal role in the modern age since an increased consumers awareness has led them to pay more attention to food commodities. For this reason, it is important to have reliable and fast techniques able to detect possible adulterations in food, which affect qualitative and economic value. Therefore, the aim of this study was to detect possible adulterations in apple juice from others fruit species (i.e., pear, peach, and kiwi) combining DNA barcoding approach, using trnL (UAA) intron, with high resolution melting analysis (HRMA). A preliminary phylogenetic analysis, using sequences retrieved by the GenBank, confirmed the discriminatory power of trnL (UAA) intron among the four fruit species examined. Moreover, the sequencing of the trnL (UAA) fragments obtained from apple, pear, peach, and kiwi, demonstrated the suitability of an inner shorter sequence, P6 loop, to differentiate the considered species. The HRMA coupled with trnL (UAA) intron allowed discrimination among the four fruits but provided incomplete results for juices. Whereas the HRMA targeting the P6 loop amplicons confirmed the suitability of the technique to qualitatively distinguish fruit juices composed by the combination of apple/pear and apple/peach. However, the impossibility of discriminating apple/kiwi juices from the pure kiwi sample highlighted limitations, most likely related to the DNA extraction process. This hypothesis was further confirmed by analyzing DNA blends obtained by combining nucleic acids extracted from pure matrixes (i.e., apple and kiwi fruits). In this specific case, the application of HRMA allowed both qualitative and quantitative assessment of the samples.
Risk Assessment and Characterization in Tuna Species of the Canary Islands According to Their Metal Content
Authors: Lozano-Bilbao Enrique , Delgado-Suárez Indira , Paz-Montelongo Soraya , Hardisson Arturo , Pascual-Fernández José J. , Rubio Carmen , Weller Dailos González , Gutiérrez Ángel J.
Published: March 2023

Bioaccumulation is the process by which living organisms accumulate substances, such as pesticides, heavy metals, and other pollutants, from their environment. These substances can accumulate in the organism’s tissues over time, leading to potential health risks. Bioaccumulation can occur in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and can have a significant impact on the health of both humans and wildlife. The objective of this study is to find out if the concentrations of metals in the tuna species of the Canary Islands are suitable for human consumption and if they pose a health risk. Fifteen samples of Acanthocybium solandri, Katsuwonus pelamis, Thunnus albacares, Thunnus obesus and Thunnus thynnus present in canaries were analyzed. Ten grams of muscle were taken from each specimen and the metals Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Li, Ni, Pb and Zn were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The tuna species that presented more metals with a higher concentration compared to the others was T. thynnus, reaching up to 100 times more than the other studied species in Fe content with 137.8 ± 100.9 mg/Kg, which may be due to the fact that it is the largest species that reaches ages of more than fifteen years. The species Thunnus thynnus should not be suitable for commercialization according to the current legislation on the concentrations of Cd in blue fish, since 75% of the specimens studied exceeded the concentration legislated for Cd. A total of 40% of the studied specimens of this this species exceeded the legislated values for the concentration of Pb in oily fish meat, so this species must be monitored to ensure that it does not pose a risk to human health.
Effect of Different Vegetable Oils on the Flavor of Fried Green Onion (Allium fistulosum L.) Oil
Authors: Wang Ruifang , Qiao Lina , Wang Jing , Wang Junyi , Zhang Ning , Chen Haitao , Sun Jie , Wang Shuqi , Zhang Yu
Published: March 2023

The flavor of fried green onion oil (Allium fistulosum L.) is widely applied and popular in Chinese cuisine. This work aimed to explore the effects of different varieties of vegetable oils on the flavor profile generation of fried green onion oil. The volatile flavor components of seven different kinds of fried green onion oils, i.e., soybean oil, palm oil, olive oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, camellia oil, and colza oil, were identified and analyzed by sensory analysis, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and electronic nose. The results showed that sensory analysis and electronic nose were accepted to detect the odor diversities of different kinds of fried green onion oil sensitively. A total of 103 volatile flavor components were identified positively, and the key aromas included aldehydes and sulfur-containing compounds that correlated highly with green grass, oily, pungent and shallot scent attributes. Meanwhile, fatty acid compositions showed that there were no significant changes in the types of fatty acids before and after frying, but the relative content was not different. Accordingly, the unsaturated fatty acids (UFA, C18:1, C18:2, C18:3, and C20:1) had a significant influence on the flavor of frying oil, which was peculiarly prone to oxidation and heat degradation reactions. These results provided a theoretical basis for further application of fried onion flavor in the food industry.
Cefotaxime-, Ciprofloxacin-, and Extensively Drug-Resistant Escherichia coli O157:H7 and O55:H7 in Camel Meat
Authors: Sallam Khalid Ibrahim , Abd-Elrazik Yasmine , Raslan Mona Talaat , Imre Kálmán , Morar Adriana , Herman Viorel , Zaher Hanan Ahmed
Published: March 2023

The present study aimed to explore for the first time the occurrence and the antimicrobial resistance profiles of E. coli O157:H7 and O55:H7 isolates in camel meat in Egypt. Among the 110 camel meat samples examined using standardized microbiological techniques, 10 (9.1%) and 32 (29.1%) were positive for E. coli O157:H7 and E. coli O55:H7, respectively. In total, 24 isolates were verified as E. coli O157:H7, while 102 isolates were confirmed serologically as E. coli O55:H7. Multiplex PCR revealed the existence of eaeA, stx1, stx2, and EHEC-hlyA among E. coli O157:H7 and O55:H7 isolates (n = 126) at various percentages. According to their resistance against 14 antibiotics, 16.7% and 83.3% of O157:H7 isolates and 8.6% and 76.5% of O55:H7 isolates were classified into extensively drug-resistant and multi-drug-resistant, respectively, whereas 29.4% and 22.2% of E. coli isolates were resistant to cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin, respectively. The study results emphasize that camel meat may be a vehicle for multi- and extensively drug-resistant E. coli O157:H7 and O55:H7 strains, indicating a potential threat to public health. Further studies based on the molecular evidence of the antimicrobial resistance genes and enrolling a larger number of samples are recommended for a better understanding of the antimicrobial resistance phenomenon of camel-meat-originating pathogenic E. coli strains.
Insight into the Mechanism of Porcine Myofibrillar Protein Gel Properties Modulated by κ-Carrageenan
Authors: Chen Zhi , Luo Cheng , Wang Kangxu , Chen Yinji , Zhuang Xinbo
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study is to explain the mechanism of porcine myofibrillar protein gel properties modulated by κ-carrageenan. The textural properties results showed that the stress at fracture of the composite gel with 0.4% κ-carrageenan had the highest value (91.33 g), which suggested that the 0.4% κ-carrageenan addition was the limitation. The strain at fracture was significantly reduced with κ-carrageenan addition. The composite gel with 0.4% κ-carrageenan had the lowest proportion of T22 (7.85%) and the shortest T21 relaxation time (252.81 ms). The paraffin section showed that the phase separation behavior of the composite gel transformed from single-phase behavior to dispersed phase behavior to bi-continuous phase behavior, and the ratio of CG/MP phase area significantly increased from 0.06 to 1.73. The SEM showed that the three-dimensional network of myofibrillar protein transformed from a loose structure to a compact structure to an unaggregated structure with κ-carrageenan addition. The myofibrillar protein network of the treatment with 0.4% κ-carrageenan had the highest DF value (1.7858) and lowest lacunary value (0.452). The principal component analysis was performed on the data of microstructure and textural properties, and the results showed that the dispersed phase behavior and moisture stabilization promoted the aggregation of myofibrillar protein and the composite gel had better water holding capacity and textural properties, while bi-continuous phase behavior hindered the aggregation of myofibrillar protein and the composite gel had worse water holding capacity and textural properties.
Development of a Nutraceutical Product Derived from By-Products of the Lipid Extraction of the Brazil Nut (Bertolletia excelsa H.B.K)
Authors: dos Santos Orquidea Vasconcelos , Azevedo Glaucinéia Oliveira , Santos Ângela Chagas , Lopes Alessandra Santos
Published: March 2023

The objective of this investigation was to develop a nutraceutical product, in bars, using defatted Brazil nut by-products. The methodological bases of analyses followed the guidelines of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists international and experimental tests of formulations. The bars presented with high protein content with high nutraceutical potential expressed as high levels of magnesium, sodium, calcium and potassium, with emphasis on selenium, supplying around 50% of the daily recommendations. The sulfur amino acids reach approximately the recommended chemical score (97%), the aromatic amino acids with a proportion close to 50% and those of the branched chain supplying the established recommendations for adults. In the sensory tests, the formulation that presented the best attributes and the greatest acceptance (91.78% for the flavor and 97.89% for the general impression) by the tasters was the bar formulation made with a 75:25 ratio of defatted Brazil nuts flour and isolated soy protein.
Self-Compassion May Have Benefits for Body Image among Women with a Higher Body Mass Index and Internalized Weight Bias
Authors: Nightingale Bethany A. , Cassin Stephanie E.
Published: March 2023

Negative attitudes towards one’s own body are common among women and are linked to adverse consequences including negative affect, low self-esteem, and eating pathology. Self-compassion has been found effective in improving body image; however, few published studies have examined self-compassion in populations with higher BMIs despite the positive correlation between weight and body dissatisfaction. The current study examined the efficacy of a self-compassion letter-writing exercise versus two active control groups in response to a negative body image induction. The sample of college-aged females (M age = 20.91 years; SD = 5.47) was split between higher and lower BMI to determine whether self-compassion affects body image, affect, and self-esteem differently across weight groups. Weight bias internalization (WBI: i.e., internalization of society’s negative stigma against those with higher BMIs) was examined as a moderator of this relationship in the higher BMI group. Results suggest that letter writing improved body image regardless of condition (p < 0.001). The self-compassion exercise promoted more adaptive body image (p = 0.007) and self-compassion (p = 0.013) than one control condition for those with high WBI. Results suggest that self-compassion can be helpful in ameliorating negative body image for females of all sizes, and that levels of WBI may alter the effect of body image interventions.
Laboratory Test Results in Patients with Workplace Moisture Damage Associated Symptoms—The SAMDAW Study
Authors: Nynäs Pia , Vilpas Sarkku , Kankare Elina , Karjalainen Jussi , Lehtimäki Lauri , Numminen Jura , Tikkakoski Antti , Kleemola Leenamaija , Uitti Jukka
Published: March 2023

The mechanisms of health effects of moisture damage (MD) are unclear, but inflammatory responses have been suspected. The usefulness of laboratory and allergy tests among patients in secondary healthcare with symptoms associated with workplace MD were examined. Full blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), total serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and skin prick testing were assessed and analyzed in relation to multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and perceived stress in 99 patients and 48 controls. In analysis, t-tests, Mann-Whitney tests, and chi-squared tests were used. Minor clinically insignificant differences in blood counts were seen in patients and controls, but among patients with asthma an elevated neutrophil count was found in 19% with and only in 2% of patients without asthma (p = 0.003). CRP levels and ESR were low, and the study patients’ FeNO, total IgE, or allergic sensitization were not increased compared to controls. The level of stress was high among 26% of patients and 6% of controls (p = 0.005), and MCS was more common among patients (39% vs. 10%, p < 0.001). Stress or MCS were not significantly associated with laboratory test results. In conclusion, no basic laboratory or allergy test results were characteristic of this patient group, and neither inflammatory processes nor allergic sensitization were found to explain the symptoms among these patients. While the value of basic laboratory tests should not be ignored, the use of allergy tests does not seem necessary when symptoms are indicated to be workplace-related.
Design and Implementation of a Collaborative Clinical Practice and Research Documentation System Using SNOMED-CT and HL7-CDA in the Context of a Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Unit
Authors: Direito Bruno , Santos André , Mouga Susana , Lima João , Brás Paulo , Oliveira Guiomar , Castelo-Branco Miguel
Published: March 2023

This paper introduces a prototype for clinical research documentation using the structured information model HL7 CDA and clinical terminology (SNOMED CT). The proposed solution was integrated with the current electronic health record system (EHR-S) and aimed to implement interoperability and structure information, and to create a collaborative platform between clinical and research teams. The framework also aims to overcome the limitations imposed by classical documentation strategies in real-time healthcare encounters that may require fast access to complex information. The solution was developed in the pediatric hospital (HP) of the University Hospital Center of Coimbra (CHUC), a national reference for neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is very demanding in terms of longitudinal and cross-sectional data throughput. The platform uses a three-layer approach to reduce components’ dependencies and facilitate maintenance, scalability, and security. The system was validated in a real-life context of the neurodevelopmental and autism unit (UNDA) in the HP and assessed based on the functionalities model of EHR-S (EHR-S FM) regarding their successful implementation and comparison with state-of-the-art alternative platforms. A global approach to the clinical history of neurodevelopmental disorders was worked out, providing transparent healthcare data coding and structuring while preserving information quality. Thus, the platform enabled the development of user-defined structured templates and the creation of structured documents with standardized clinical terminology that can be used in many healthcare contexts. Moreover, storing structured data associated with healthcare encounters supports a longitudinal view of the patient’s healthcare data and health status over time, which is critical in routine and pediatric research contexts. Additionally, it enables queries on population statistics that are key to supporting the definition of local and global policies, whose importance was recently emphasized by the COVID pandemic.
The Clinical Researcher Journey in the Artificial Intelligence Era: The PAC-MAN’s Challenge
Authors: Bignami Elena Giovanna , Vittori Alessandro , Lanza Roberto , Compagnone Christian , Cascella Marco , Bellini Valentina
Published: March 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that can assist researchers and clinicians in various settings. However, like any technology, it must be used with caution and awareness as there are numerous potential pitfalls. To provide a creative analogy, we have likened research to the PAC-MAN classic arcade video game. Just as the protagonist of the game is constantly seeking data, researchers are constantly seeking information that must be acquired and managed within the constraints of the research rules. In our analogy, the obstacles that researchers face are represented by “ghosts”, which symbolize major ethical concerns, low-quality data, legal issues, and educational challenges. In short, clinical researchers need to meticulously collect and analyze data from various sources, often navigating through intricate and nuanced challenges to ensure that the data they obtain are both precise and pertinent to their research inquiry. Reflecting on this analogy can foster a deeper comprehension of the significance of employing AI and other powerful technologies with heightened awareness and attentiveness.
Psychosocial Work Stress and Occupational Stressors in Emergency Medical Services
Authors: Bardhan Rupkatha , Byrd Traci
Published: March 2023

Emergency medical service (EMS) professionals often experience work stress, which escalated during COVID-19. High job demand in the EMS profession may lead to progressive decline in physical and mental health. We investigated the prevalence of psychosocial job stress in the three levels of EMS: basic, advanced, and paramedic, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. EMS professionals (n = 36) were recruited from EMS agencies following the Institutional Review Board approval. Participants took surveys on demographics, personal characteristics, chronic diseases, and work schedules. Job stress indicators, namely the effort–reward ratio (ERR) and overcommitment (OC), were evaluated from survey questionnaires using the effort–reward imbalance model. Associations of job stress indicators with age, sex, body mass index, and working conditions were measured by logistic regression. Psychosocial work stress was prevalent with effort reward ratio > 1 in 83% of participants and overcommitment scores > 13 in 89% of participants. Age, body mass index, and work hours showed strong associations with ERR and OC scores. The investigation findings suggested that a psychosocial work environment is prevalent among EMS, as revealed by high ERR, OC, and their correlation with sleep apnea in rotating shift employees. Appropriate interventions may be helpful in reducing psychosocial work stress in EMS professionals.
Complementary and Alternative Medicines in Northern Cyprus: Public Awareness, Patterns of Use, and Attitudes
Authors: Ünlüyol Doğa , Gökçekuş Hüseyin , Kassem Youssef , Tezer Murat , Meriçli Filiz , Yavuz Dudu Özkum
Published: March 2023

Background: The utilization of herbal medicine (HM) as a component of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasing worldwide. Little is known about justifications for its use and the factors associated with it. This study gains insights into the use of herbal medicines in Northern Cyprus, concentrating on targets for its use, the role played by disease type, reasons for its use, and sources of information. Methods: A questionnaire was utilized to achieve the aim of the study. The questionnaire was distributed to a random sample comprised of people in two different regions in Northern Cyprus over a 12-week period from August to November 2020. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Moreover, qualitative research explored individuals’ decision making regarding CAM, which aimed to examine 20 patients as a context for beliefs, decision making, and dialogue about CAM. After audio-taping and verbatim transcription, the data were analyzed with qualitative content analysis. Results: The findings show that the majority of respondents learned about herbal products (HPs) and CAM from other patients, the Internet, friends, and family. The results indicate that almost half of the respondents were aware of how CAMs, especially herbal preparations, are used to treat common illnesses. Fennel, ginger, and echinacea were the most commonly used HMs, mainly for the treatment of the common cold. Furthermore, nearly 50% of the participants expressed the belief that HMs are safe, have fewer side effects than conventional medicines, and are also effective for treating minor health conditions. The prevalence was strongly associated with education level based on a Pearson Chi-square analysis. Conclusions: Although herbal medicines were mostly used to treat mild to moderate ailments and the participants were aware of their limitations, the combination of self-medication, inexperienced counseling, and lack of awareness of the risks of herbal medicines is potentially harmful. This is particularly important for elderly users, because although they seemed to be more aware of health-related issues, they generally used more medication than younger people. Given our finding that dissatisfaction with modern medicine is the most important reason for the preferred use of herbal medicines, government agencies, physicians, and pharmaceutical companies should be aware of this issue and should aim to create some level of awareness among users.
A Status Review on the Importance of Mulberry (Morus spp.) and Prospects towards Its Cultivation in a Controlled Environment
Authors: Baciu Ecaterina-Daniela , Baci Gabriela-Maria , Moise Adela Ramona , Dezmirean Daniel Severus
Published: March 2023

One of the major challenges that global society is facing nowadays is finding sustainable and safe methods for crop growth and development. Besides the traditional crops cultivated worldwide (tomatoes, potatoes, lettuce, strawberries, etc.), there is a general trend in the exploitation of polyvalent plants. Mulberry (Morus spp.) faced no exception; with its undeniable proprieties, it became suitable not only to be used in the sericulture industry, but in the food chain, the pharma industry, and environmental safety. Spare parts of the plants can be used in a very wide range, starting from introducing mulberry leaves in supplements to increase the protein content of a meal to extracting biologically active compounds from fruits and roots to be used in phytotherapy. However, the outstanding proprieties of this plant come with some requirements related to space availability and watering; requirements that can be easily surpassed by using vertical farming methods, such as hydroponic, aeroponic, or aquaponic systems. The present paper aims to evaluate vertical farming techniques’ applicability to mulberry propagation in a controlled environment and their prospects for a more sustainable and safer agricultural practice.
Equity-Market-Neutral Strategy Portfolio Construction Using LSTM-Based Stock Prediction and Selection: An Application to S&P500 Consumer Staples Stocks
Authors: Nafia Abdellilah , Yousfi Abdellah , Echaoui Abdellah
Published: March 2023

In recent years, a great deal of attention has been devoted to the use of neural networks in portfolio management, particularly in the prediction of stock prices. Building a more profitable portfolio with less risk has always been a challenging task. In this study, we propose a model to build a portfolio according to an equity-market-neutral (EMN) investment strategy. In this portfolio, the selection of stocks comprises two steps: a prediction of the individual returns of stocks using LSTM neural network, followed by a ranking of these stocks according to their predicted returns. The stocks with the best predicted returns and those with the worst predicted returns constitute, respectively, the long side and the short side of the portfolio to be built. The proposed model has two key benefits. First, data from historical quotes and technical and fundamental indicators are used in the LSTM network to provide good predictions. Second, the EMN strategy allows for the funding of long-position stocks by short-sell-position stocks, thus hedging the market risk. The results show that the built portfolios performed better compared to the benchmarks. Nonetheless, performance slowed down during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mechanisms of Demyelination and Remyelination Strategies for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Zhao Xinda , Jacob Claire
Published: March 2023

All currently licensed medications for multiple sclerosis (MS) target the immune system. Albeit promising preclinical results demonstrated disease amelioration and remyelination enhancement via modulating oligodendrocyte lineage cells, most drug candidates showed only modest or no effects in human clinical trials. This might be due to the fact that remyelination is a sophistically orchestrated process that calls for the interplay between oligodendrocyte lineage cells, neurons, central nervous system (CNS) resident innate immune cells, and peripheral immune infiltrates and that this process may somewhat differ in humans and rodent models used in research. To ensure successful remyelination, the recruitment and activation/repression of each cell type should be regulated in a highly organized spatio–temporal manner. As a result, drug candidates targeting one single pathway or a single cell population have difficulty restoring the optimal microenvironment at lesion sites for remyelination. Therefore, when exploring new drug candidates for MS, it is instrumental to consider not only the effects on all CNS cell populations but also the optimal time of administration during disease progression. In this review, we describe the dysregulated mechanisms in each relevant cell type and the disruption of their coordination as causes of remyelination failure, providing an overview of the complex cell interplay in CNS lesion sites.
Effects of Exogenous Ergothioneine on Brassica rapa Clubroot Development Revealed by Transcriptomic Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Cao Guizhu , Li Xiaonan , Piao Zhongyun
Published: March 2023

Clubroot disease is a soil-borne disease caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae that leads to a serious yield reduction in cruciferous plants. In this study, ergothioneine (EGT) was used to culture P. brassicae resting spores, the germination of which was significantly inhibited. Further exogenous application of EGT and P. brassicae inoculation in Chinese cabbage showed that EGT promoted root growth and significantly reduced the incidence rate and disease index. To further explore the mechanism by which EGT improves the resistance of Chinese cabbage to clubroot, a Chinese cabbage inbred line BJN3-2 susceptible to clubroot treated with EGT was inoculated, and a transcriptome analysis was conducted. The transcriptome sequencing analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes induced by EGT were significantly enriched in the phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathway, and the genes encoding related enzymes involved in lignin synthesis were upregulated. qRT-PCR, peroxidase activity, lignin and flavonoid content determination showed that EGT promoted the lignin and flavonoid synthesis of Chinese cabbage and improved its resistance to clubroot. This study provides a new insight for the comprehensive prevention and control of cruciferous clubroot and for further study of the effects of EGT on clubroot disease.
Long-Term Cryopreservation of Nasal Polyp Tissue in a Biobank for the Isolation and Culture of Primary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Kim Jonghui , Hegener Karla , Hagedorn Claudia , Jamal Jameel Kaschin , Weidinger Daniel , Seuthe Inga Marte Charlott , Eichhorn Sabine , Kreppel Florian , Knobloch Jürgen , Park Jonas Jae-Hyun
Published: March 2023

Epithelial cells may play an important role in the pathologic process of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. Therefore, providing epithelial cells from a biobank could greatly contribute to further research. In the present work, the isolation of epithelial cells from long-term cryopreserved tissue is demonstrated. Polyp tissues were cryopreserved in a commercially available freezing medium with dimethyl sulfoxide and stored in liquid nitrogen. The outgrowth and proliferation of epithelial cells from cryopreserved tissue were evaluated and compared to that of fresh tissue. Flow cytometric analysis with anti-cytokeratin, anti-p63, and anti-Ki-67 was performed to identify epithelial cells and determine differentiation and proliferation. A functionality test was performed by determining type 2–relevant proteins, representatively thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and periostin, using ELISA. Primary epithelial cells could be isolated from cryopreserved tissues. Cells from cryopreserved tissues showed comparable outgrowth and proliferation to that of fresh tissue. Isolated epithelial cells showed high cytokeratin, p63, and Ki-67 expression and secreted TSLP and periostin. In the present study, a method for long-term cryopreservation of polyp tissue was established, thereby enabling the isolation and cell culture of primary cell culture at a later time. Epithelial cell availability should be greatly improved by including this method in a biobank.
The Role of Adipokines in the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis
Authors: Kiełbowski Kajetan , Bakinowska Estera , Ostrowski Piotr , Pala Bartłomiej , Gromowska Ewa , Gurazda Klaudia , Dec Paweł , Modrzejewski Andrzej , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: March 2023

Psoriasis is a chronic and immune-mediated skin condition characterized by pro-inflammatory cytokines and keratinocyte hyperproliferation. Dendritic cells, T lymphocytes, and keratinocytes represent the main cell subtypes involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, while the interleukin-23 (IL-23)/IL-17 pathway enhances the disease progression. Human adipose tissue is an endocrine organ, which secretes multiple proteins, known as adipokines, such as adiponectin, leptin, visfatin, or resistin. Current evidence highlights the immunomodulatory roles of adipokines, which may contribute to the progression or suppression of psoriasis. A better understanding of the complexity of psoriasis pathophysiology linked with adipokines could result in developing novel diagnostic or therapeutic strategies. This review aims to present the pathogenesis of psoriasis and the roles of adipokines in this process.
Crosstalk between SOX Genes and Long Non-Coding RNAs in Glioblastoma
Authors: Stevanovic Milena , Kovacevic-Grujicic Natasa , Petrovic Isidora , Drakulic Danijela , Milivojevic Milena , Mojsin Marija
Published: March 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) continues to be the most devastating primary brain malignancy. Despite significant advancements in understanding basic GBM biology and enormous efforts in developing new therapeutic approaches, the prognosis for most GBM patients remains poor with a median survival time of 15 months. Recently, the interplay between the SOX (SRY-related HMG-box) genes and lncRNAs (long non-coding RNAs) has become the focus of GBM research. Both classes of molecules have an aberrant expression in GBM and play essential roles in tumor initiation, progression, therapy resistance, and recurrence. In GBM, SOX and lncRNAs crosstalk through numerous functional axes, some of which are part of the complex transcriptional and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms. This review provides a systematic summary of current literature data on the complex interplay between SOX genes and lncRNAs and represents an effort to underscore the effects of SOX/lncRNA crosstalk on the malignant properties of GBM cells. Furthermore, we highlight the significance of this crosstalk in searching for new biomarkers and therapeutic approaches in GBM treatment.
A Novel D-Psicose 3-Epimerase from Halophilic, Anaerobic Iocasia fonsfrigidae and Its Application in Coconut Water
Authors: Wulansari Shinta , Heng Sobroney , Ketbot Prattana , Baramee Sirilak , Waeonukul Rattiya , Pason Patthra , Ratanakhanokchai Khanok , Uke Ayaka , Kosugi Akihiko , Tachaapaikoon Chakrit
Published: March 2023

D-Psicose is a rare, low-calorie sugar that is found in limited quantities in national products. Recently, D-psicose has gained considerable attention due to its potential applications in the food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries. In this study, a novel D-psicose 3-epimerase (a group of ketose 3-epimerase) from an extremely halophilic, anaerobic bacterium, Iocasia fonsfrigidae strain SP3-1 (IfDPEase), was cloned, expressed in Escherichia coli, and characterized. Unlike other ketose 3-epimerase members, IfDPEase shows reversible epimerization only for D-fructose and D-psicose at the C-3 position but not for D-tagatose, most likely because the Gly218 and Cys6 at the substrate-binding subsites of IfDPEase, which are involved in interactions at the O-1 and O-6 positions of D-fructose, respectively, differ from those of other 3-epimerases. Under optimum conditions (5 µM IfDPEase, 1 mM Mn2+, 50 °C, and pH 7.5), 36.1% of D-psicose was obtained from 10 mg/mL D-fructose. The IfDPEase is highly active against D-fructose under NaCl concentrations of up to 500 mM, possibly due to the excessive negative charges of acidic amino acid residues (aspartic and glutamic acids), which are localized on the surface of the halophilic enzyme. These negative charges may protect the enzyme from Na+ ions from the environment and result in the lowest pI value compared to those of other 3-epimerase members. Moreover, without adjusting any ingredients, IfDPEase could improve coconut water quality by converting D-fructose into D-psicose with a yield of 26.8%. Therefore, IfDPEase is an attractive alternative to enhancing the quality of fructose-containing foods.
Advances in Nitric Oxide Signalling and Metabolism in Plants
Authors: Liao Weibiao , Igamberdiev Abir U. , Palma José M.
Published: March 2023

More than 15,000 scientific articles published since the late 1950s related to RNS action or detection in various plant materials are listed in the Web of Science database [...]
VEGF Induces Expression of Genes That Either Promote or Limit Relaxation of the Retinal Endothelial Barrier
Authors: McCann Maximilian , Li Yueru , Baccouche Basma , Kazlauskas Andrius
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to identify genes that mediate VEGF-induced permeability. We performed RNA-Seq analysis on primary human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) cultured in normal (5 mM) and high glucose (30 mM) conditions that were treated with vehicle, VEGF, or VEGF then anti-VEGF. We filtered our RNA-Seq dataset to identify genes with the following four characteristics: (1) regulated by VEGF, (2) VEGF regulation reversed by anti-VEGF, (3) regulated by VEGF in both normal and high glucose conditions, and (4) known contribution to vascular homeostasis. Of the resultant 18 genes, members of the Notch signaling pathway and ANGPT2 (Ang2) were selected for further study. Permeability assays revealed that while the Notch pathway was dispensable for relaxing the barrier, it contributed to maintaining an open barrier. In contrast, Ang2 limited the extent of barrier relaxation in response to VEGF. These findings indicate that VEGF engages distinct sets of genes to induce and sustain barrier relaxation. Furthermore, VEGF induces expression of genes that limit the extent of barrier relaxation. Together, these observations begin to elucidate the elegance of VEGF-mediated transcriptional regulation of permeability.
Crystal Structure of Bright Fluorescent Protein BrUSLEE with Subnanosecond Fluorescence Lifetime; Electric and Dynamic Properties
Authors: Goryacheva Ekaterina , Efremov Roman , Krylov Nikolai , Artemyev Igor , Bogdanov Alexey , Mamontova Anastasia , Pletnev Sergei , Pletneva Nadya , Pletnev Vladimir
Published: March 2023

The rapid development of new microscopy techniques for cell biology has exposed the need for genetically encoded fluorescent tags with special properties. Fluorescent biomarkers of the same color and spectral range and different fluorescent lifetimes (FLs) became useful for fluorescent lifetime image microscopy (FLIM). One such tag, the green fluorescent protein BrUSLEE (Bright Ultimately Short Lifetime Enhanced Emitter), having an extremely short subnanosecond component of fluorescence lifetime (FL~0.66 ns) and exceptional fluorescence brightness, was designed for FLIM experiments. Here, we present the X-ray structure and discuss the structure-functional relations of BrUSLEE. Its development from the EGFP (enhanced green fluorescent proteins) precursor (FL~2.83 ns) resulted in a change of the chromophore microenvironment due to a significant alteration in the side chain conformations. To get further insight into molecular details explaining the observed differences in the photophysical properties of these proteins, we studied their structural, dynamic, and electric properties by all-atom molecular-dynamics simulations in an aqueous solution. It has been shown that compared to BrUSLEE, the mobility of the chromophore in the EGFP is noticeably limited by nonbonded interactions (mainly H-bonds) with the neighboring residues.
Novel Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) Low Lipophilicity Agonists Produce Distinct cAMP and Arrestin Signalling Kinetics without Bias
Authors: Sharma Raahul , Singh Sameek , Whiting Zak M. , Molitor Maximilian , Vernall Andrea J. , Grimsey Natasha L.
Published: March 2023

Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) is a promising target for treating inflammatory diseases. We designed derivatives of 3-carbamoyl-2-pyridone and 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one-3-carboxamide CB2-selective agonists with reduced lipophilicity. The new compounds were measured for their affinity (radioligand binding) and ability to elicit cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signalling and β-arrestin-2 translocation with temporal resolution (BRET-based biosensors). For the 3-carbamoyl-2-pyridone derivatives, we found that modifying the previously reported compound UOSS77 (also known as S-777469) by appending a PEG2-alcohol via a 3-carbomylcyclohexyl carboxamide (UOSS75) lowered lipophilicity, and preserved binding affinity and signalling profile. The 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one-3-carboxamide UOMM18, containing a cis configuration at the 3-carboxamide cyclohexyl and with an alcohol on the 4-position of the cyclohexyl, had lower lipophilicity but similar CB2 affinity and biological activity to previously reported compounds of this class. Relative to CP55,940, the new compounds acted as partial agonists and did not exhibit signalling bias. Interestingly, while all compounds shared similar temporal trajectories for maximal efficacy, differing temporal trajectories for potency were observed. Consequently, when applied at sub-maximal concentrations, CP55,940 tended to elicit sustained (cAMP) or increasing (arrestin) responses, whereas responses to the new compounds tended to be transient (cAMP) or sustained (arrestin). In future studies, the compounds characterised here may be useful in elucidating the consequences of differential temporal signalling profiles on CB2-mediated physiological responses.
Highlights in Pathophysiology of the Musculoskeletal System
Authors: Barone Rosario , Szychlinska Marta
Published: March 2023

The intention of the present Special Issue is to focus on the latest research in the musculoskeletal system, with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms underlying its pathophysiology, as well as innovative diagnostic tools and therapeutic perspectives [...]
Postbiotics against Obesity: Perception and Overview Based on Pre-Clinical and Clinical Studies
Authors: Park Seon-Joo , Sharma Anshul , Lee Hae-Jeung
Published: March 2023

Overweight and obesity are significant global public health concerns that are increasing in prevalence at an alarming rate. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of probiotics against obesity. Postbiotics are the next generation of probiotics that include bacteria-free extracts and nonviable microorganisms that may be advantageous to the host and are being increasingly preferred over regular probiotics. However, the impact of postbiotics on obesity has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, the goal of this review is to gather in-depth data on the ability of postbiotics to combat obesity. Postbiotics have been reported to have significant potential in alleviating obesity. This review comprehensively discusses the anti-obesity effects of postbiotics in cellular, animal, and clinical studies. Postbiotics exert anti-obesity effects via multiple mechanisms, with the major mechanisms including increased energy expenditure, reduced adipogenesis and adipocyte differentiation, suppression of food intake, inhibition of lipid absorption, regulation of lipid metabolism, and regulation of gut dysbiosis. Future research should include further in-depth studies on strain identification, scale-up of postbiotics, identification of underlying mechanisms, and well-defined clinical studies. Postbiotics could be a promising dietary intervention for the prevention and management of obesity.
The Contributions of Neotropical Tree Families to the Structure of Common Amazon Forest-Types
Authors: Myster Randall W.
Published: March 2023

In order to investigate how familial biodiversity structures forests in the critically important Amazon, I combined past plot samplings to investigate the contributions of tree families in those samplings to the structure of common Amazon forest types. I found that the families Arecaceae, Fabaceae, Clusiaceae, and Malvaceae had the most stems; Staphyleaceae, Caricaceae, and Anacardiaceae had the largest stems; Arecaceae, Fabaceae, Lecythidaceae, and Malvaceae had the largest basal area; Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Sapotaceae had the most genera; Annonaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Lauraceae, Malvaceae, Moraceae, and Sapotaceae had the most species, and the maximum Fisher’s α diversity index was found for many families. Together, results suggest that Fabaceae and Malvaceae are the most important families structuring these forests, but also that Arecaceae and Sapotaceae may be important. Thus, conservationists and managers may help sustain structure in these forests by propagating and maintaining species in these families. Finally, correlations between total number of stems and basal area, and between total number of genera and total number of species, suggest a causal relationship between them as they structure these forests, but the lack of correlations with Fisher’s α suggest it has little structural utility for these forests.