bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Photosynthetic Efficiency for Increased Carbon Assimilation and Woody Biomass Production in Engineered Hybrid Poplar
Authors: Tao Yumin , Chiu Li-Wei , Hoyle Jacob W. , Dewhirst Rebecca A. , Richey Christian , Rasmussen Karli , Du Jessica , Mellor Patrick , Kuiper Julie , Tucker Dominick , Crites Alex , Orr Gary A. , Heckert Matthew J. , Godinez-Vidal Damaris , Orozco-Cardenas Martha L. , Hall Madeline E.
Published: April 2023

Increasing CO2 levels in the atmosphere and the resulting negative impacts of climate change have compelled global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality or negativity. Most such efforts focus on carbon sequestration through chemical or physical approaches. Harnessing the power of synthetic biology to enhance the natural ability of carbon sequestration in plants, especially non-annuals, provides a biological approach to further reduce CO2 levels in the air. Here, we selected a photorespiration bypass pathway and tested its effectiveness on photosynthetic enhancement in a hybrid poplar, INRA717-IB4. The design includes an RNAi strategy to reduce the transportation of the photorespiration byproduct, glycolate, out of chloroplast and a shunt pathway to metabolize the retained glycolate back to CO2 for fixation through the Calvin-Benson cycle. Molecular and physiological data collected from two separate growth experiments indicate that transgenic plants expressing genes in the photorespiration bypass pathway have increased photosynthetic efficiency, leading to faster plant growth and elevated biomass production. One lead transgenic event accumulated 35%–53% more above-ground dry biomass over four months of growth in a controlled environment. Our results provide a proof of concept for engineering trees to help combat climate change.
Seed Harvesting and Climate Change Interact to Affect the Natural Regeneration of Pinus koraiensis
Authors: Liu Kai , Sun Hang , He Hong S. , Guan Xin
Published: April 2023

The poor natural regeneration of Pinus koraiensis is a key limitation for restoring the primary mixed Pinus koraiensis forests. Seed harvesting and climate change are the important factors that influence the natural regeneration of Pinus koraiensis; however, it is hard to illustrate how, in synergy, they affect its regeneration at the landscape scale. In this study, we coupled an ecosystem process model, LINKAGES, with a forest landscape model, LANDIS PRO, to evaluate how seed harvesting and climate change influenced the natural regeneration of Pinus koraiensis over large temporal and spatial scales. Our results showed that seed harvesting decreased the abundance of Pinus koraiensis juveniles by 1, 14, and 18 stems/ha under the historical climate, and reduced by 1, 17, and 24 stems/ha under the future climate in the short- (years 0–50), medium- (years 60–100), and long-term (years 110–150), respectively. This indicated that seed harvesting intensified the poor regeneration of Pinus koraiensis, irrespective of climate change. Our results suggested that seed harvesting diminished the generation capacity of Pinus koraiensis over the simulation period. Seed harvesting reduced the abundance of Pinus koraiensis at the leading edge and slowed down its shift into high-latitude regions to adapt to climate change. Our results showed that the effect magnitudes of seed harvesting, climate change, their interaction and combination at the short-, medium- and long-term were −61.1%, −78.4%, and −85.7%; 16.5%, 20.9%, and 38.2%; −10.1%, −16.2% and −32.0%; and −54.7%, −73.8%, and −79.5%, respectively. Seed harvesting was a predominant factor throughout the simulation; climate change failed to offset the negative effect of seed harvesting, but the interactive effect between seed harvesting and climate change almost overrode the positive effect of climate change. Seed harvesting, climate change, and their interaction jointly reduced the natural regeneration of Pinus koraiensis. We suggest reducing the intensity of seed harvesting and increasing silvicultural treatments, such as thinning and artificial plantation, to protect and restore the primary mixed Pinus koraiensis forests.
Current Status, Challenges, and Prospects for the Biological Production of Vanillin
Authors: Jiang Wankui , Chen Xiaoyue , Feng Yifan , Sun Jingxiang , Jiang Yujia , Zhang Wenming , Xin Fengxue , Jiang Min
Published: April 2023

Vanillin has been widely used as a flavoring agent in the food industry and as a precursor in the medicine and polymer industries. However, the use of chemically synthesized vanillin is prohibited in food and some other industries. Additionally, the harsh conditions and toxic substrates in chemically synthesized vanillin lead to some environmental challenges and energy waste. With the rapid development of synthetic biology, the biological production of vanillin from renewable resources through microbial fermentation has gained great attention owing to its high selectivity and environmentally friendly properties. Accordingly, this article will discuss the vanillin biosynthesis technology from the aspects of chassis cell types and substrate types. The key enzymes involved in metabolic pathways are also discussed. Then, we summarize some improvements in the process of vanillin production to increase its production and reduce the toxicity of vanillin in microorganisms, and the possible future directions for vanillin biosynthesis will also be outlined.
PIV Measurements of Open-Channel Turbulent Flow under Unconstrained Conditions
Authors: Arthur James K.
Published: April 2023

Many open-channel turbulent flow studies have been focused on highly constrained conditions. Thus, it is rather conventional to note such flows as being fully developed, fully turbulent, and unaffected by sidewalls and free surface disturbances. However, many real-life flow phenomena in natural water bodies and artificially installed drain channels are not as ideal. This work is aimed at studying some of these unconstrained conditions. This is achieved by using particle image velocimetry measurements of a developing turbulent open-channel flow over a smooth wall. The tested flow effects are low values of the Reynolds number based on the momentum thickness Reθ (ranging from 165 to 930), low aspect ratio AR (ranging from 1.1 to 1.5), and Froude number Fr (ranging from 0.1 to 0.8). The results show that the mean flow has an inner region with a logarithmic layer with a von Kármán constant of 0.40–0.41, and a log law constant ranging from 5.0 to 6.0. The friction velocity and coefficient of skin friction are predictable using the formulations of Fr and Reθ presented in this work. The outer region is also characterized by a dip location, which is predictable using an equation associated with Reθ. The higher-order turbulence statistics, on the other hand, show distinguishing traits, such as correlation coefficients ranging from −0.1 to 0.5. Overall, this work demonstrates that for the unconstrained conditions studied, friction evaluations associated with Reynolds shear stress and some notable turbulence modelling functions used in conventional open-channel flows are inapplicable.
The Effect of Bovine Serum Albumin on Benzo[a]pyrene Removal by Lactobacillus Strains
Authors: Zhang Xue , Sun Zihan , Liu Jinxia , Wang Tao , Zhang Bolin , Zhao Hongfei
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of bovine serum albumin (BSA) on the Lactobacillus-strain-mediated removal of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). A combination of 0.5 mg/mL of BSA with 1.0 × 1010 CFU/mL bacterial cells had a removal of 49.61% BaP for strain 121, while a combination of 0.4 mg/mL of BSA with 1.0 × 1010 CFU/mL bacterial cells had a removal of 66.09% BaP for strain ML32. The results indicated that the binding of BaP to Lactobacillus-BSA was stable. BSA maintains Lactobacillus activity and BaP removal in the gastrointestinal environment. Heat and ultrasonic treatment of BSA reduced the BaP-binding ability of Lactobacillus–BSA. With the addition of BSA, the surface properties of the two strains affected BaP binding. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) data demonstrated that O-H, N-H, C=O, and P=O groups were involved in the binding of BaP to Lactobacillus–BSA. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results revealed that the morphology of Lactobacillus–BSA bound to BaP was maintained. The adsorption of BaP by Lactobacillus–BSA was appropriately described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Freundlich isotherm model. BSA enhances the affinity between the bacterial cells and BaP.
Data-Driven Analysis of Risk-Assessment Methods for Cold Food Chains
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhao Zhiyao , Wang Zhaoyang
Published: April 2023

The problem of cold-chain food safety is becoming increasingly prominent. Cold food chain risk assessment is an important way to ensure cold-chain food safety. Using CiteSpace, this study analyzes the knowledge map of research hotspots in the field of cold-chain food safety over the past 18 years, identifies the research keywords, presents the centrality statistics, and calculates the cluster values and average cluster contour values. Adopting a data-driven perspective, risk-assessment methods for cold food chains are summarized based on qualitative risk assessment, quantitative risk assessment, and comprehensive qualitative and quantitative risk assessment. The advantages and disadvantages of each are summarized. Finally, the problems and challenges in current cold food chain risk-assessment research are summarized in three aspects: the data credibility of cold food chain traceability systems, cold-chain food safety audit methods, and nontraditional cold food chain risk assessment. Suggestions are given for strengthening the cold food chain risk-assessment system to provide a decision-making reference to help regulatory authorities take risk prevention and control measures.
Alginate/Pectin Film Containing Extracts Isolated from Cranberry Pomace and Grape Seeds for the Preservation of Herring
Authors: Urbonavičiūtė Gabrielė , Dyglė Gintarė , Černauskas Darius , Šipailienė Aušra , Venskutonis Petras Rimantas , Leskauskaitė Daiva
Published: April 2023

Alginate/pectin films supplemented with extracts from cranberry pomace (CE) or grape seeds (GE) were developed and applied to herring fillets that were stored for 18 days at 4 °C. Herring coated with films containing GE and CE inhibited the growth of Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa during the storage period, whereas pure alginate/pectin films did not show an antimicrobial effect against the tested pathogens. The application of alginate/pectin films with CE and GE minimised pH changes and inhibited total volatile basic nitrogen (TVN) and the formation of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) in the herring fillets. The coating of herring fillets with films with CE or GE resulted in three- and six-fold lower histamine formation and one-and-a-half- and two-fold lower cadaverine formation, respectively, when compared to unwrapped herring samples after 18 days of storage. The incorporation of 5% extracts isolated from cranberry pomace or grape seeds into the alginate/pectin film hindered herring spoilage due to the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the extracts.
A Feasibility Study towards the On-Line Quality Assessment of Pesto Sauce Production by NIR and Chemometrics
Authors: Tanzilli Daniele , D’Alessandro Alessandro , Tamelli Samuele , Durante Caterina , Cocchi Marina , Strani Lorenzo
Published: April 2023

The food industry needs tools to improve the efficiency of their production processes by minimizing waste, detecting timely potential process issues, as well as reducing the efforts and workforce devoted to laboratory analysis while, at the same time, maintaining high-quality standards of products. This can be achieved by developing on-line monitoring systems and models. The present work presents a feasibility study toward establishing the on-line monitoring of a pesto sauce production process by means of NIR spectroscopy and chemometric tools. The spectra of an intermediate product were acquired on-line and continuously by a NIR probe installed directly on the process line. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used both to perform an exploratory data analysis and to build Multivariate Statistical Process Control (MSPC) charts. Moreover, Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression was employed to compute real time prediction models for two different pesto quality parameters, namely, consistency and total lipids content. PCA highlighted some differences related to the origin of basil plants, the main pesto ingredient, such as plant age and supplier. MSPC charts were able to detect production stops/restarts. Finally, it was possible to obtain a rough estimation of the quality of some properties in the early production stage through PLS.
Effects of Ficus pandurata Hance var. angustifolia Cheng Flavonoids on Intestinal Barrier and Cognitive Function by Regulating Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Pan Junjie , Liu Yanan , Zhang Xin , Cheng Kejun
Published: April 2023

More and more evidence has supported the interaction between circadian rhythms and intestinal microbes, which provides new insights into how dietary nutrition can improve host health. Our research showed that Ficus pandurata Hance var. angustifolia Cheng flavonoids (FCF) ameliorated the pathological damage of colon and abnormal intestinal microflora structure in mice with circadian clock disorder and improved their exploration and memory behaviors. Mechanism studies have shown that FCF is involved in regulating metabolic pathways and related metabolites, regulating the expression of related tight junction proteins in the colon and the levels of Aβ and inflammatory factors in the hippocampus. Further analysis found that these metabolites showed a certain correlation with intestinal flora and played a certain role in alleviating intestinal physiological damage and cognitive decline.
The Impact of Solution Ionic Strength, Hardness, and pH on the Sorption Efficiency of Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Magnetic Nanocomposite Microparticle (MNM) Gels
Authors: Gutierrez Angela M. , Dziubla Thomas D. , Hilt J. Zach
Published: April 2023

Environmental conditions of groundwater and surface water greatly vary as a function of location. Factors such as ionic strength, water hardness, and solution pH can change the physical and chemical properties of the nanocomposites used in remediation and the pollutants of interest. In this work, magnetic nanocomposite microparticle (MNM) gels are used as sorbents for remediation of PCB 126 as model organic contaminant. Three MNM systems are used: curcumin multiacrylate MNMs (CMA MNMs), quercetin multiacrylate MNMs (QMA MNMs), and polyethylene glycol-400-dimethacrylate MNMs (PEG MNMs). The effect of ionic strength, water hardness, and pH were studied on the sorption efficiency of the MNMs for PCB 126 by performing equilibrium binding studies. It is seen that the ionic strength and water hardness have a minimal effect on the MNM gel system sorption of PCB 126. However, a decrease in binding was observed when the pH increased from 6.5 to 8.5, attributed to anion-π interactions between the buffer ions in solution and the PCB molecules as well as with the aromatic rings of the MNM gel systems. Overall, the results indicate that the developed MNM gels can be used as magnetic sorbents for polychlorinated biphenyls in groundwater and surface water remediation, provided that the solution pH is controlled.
Insight into the Natural History of Pathogenic Variant c.919-2A>G in the SLC26A4 Gene Involved in Hearing Loss: The Evidence for Its Common Origin in Southern Siberia (Russia)
Authors: Danilchenko Valeriia , Zytsar Marina , Maslova Ekaterina , Orishchenko Konstantin , Posukh Olga
Published: April 2023

Pathogenic variants in the SLC26A4 gene leading to nonsyndromic recessive deafness (DFNB4), or Pendred syndrome, are some of the most common causes of hearing loss worldwide. Earlier, we found a high proportion of SLC26A4-related hearing loss with prevailing pathogenic variant c.919-2A>G (69.3% among all mutated SLC26A4 alleles that have been identified) in Tuvinian patients belonging to the indigenous Turkic-speaking Siberian people living in the Tyva Republic (Southern Siberia, Russia), which implies a founder effect in the accumulation of c.919-2A>G in Tuvinians. To evaluate a possible common origin of c.919-2A>G, we genotyped polymorphic STR and SNP markers, intragenic and flanking SLC26A4, in patients homozygous for c.919-2A>G and in healthy controls. The common STR and SNP haplotypes carrying c.919-2A>G were revealed, which convincingly indicates the origin of c.919-2A>G from a single ancestor, supporting a crucial role of the founder effect in the c.919-2A>G prevalence in Tuvinians. Comparison analysis with previously published data revealed the identity of the small SNP haplotype (~4.5 kb) in Tuvinian and Han Chinese carriers of c.919-2A>G, which suggests their common origin from founder chromosomes. We assume that c.919-2A>G could have originated in the geographically close territories of China or Tuva and subsequently spread to other regions of Asia. In addition, the time intervals of the c.919-2A>G occurrence in Tuvinians were roughly estimated.
Functional Analysis of a Novel, Non-Canonical RPGR Splice Variant Causing X-Linked Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Koller Samuel , Beltraminelli Tim , Maggi Jordi , Wlodarczyk Agnès , Feil Silke , Baehr Luzy , Gerth-Kahlert Christina , Menghini Moreno , Berger Wolfgang
Published: April 2023

X-linked retinitis pigmentosa (XLRP) caused by mutations in the RPGR gene is one of the most severe forms of RP due to its early onset and intractable progression. Most cases have been associated with genetic variants within the purine-rich exon ORF15 region of this gene. RPGR retinal gene therapy is currently being investigated in several clinical trials. Therefore, it is crucial to report and functionally characterize (all novel) potentially pathogenic DNA sequence variants. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed for the index patient. The splicing effects of a non-canonical splice variant were tested on cDNA from whole blood and a minigene assay. WES revealed a rare, non-canonical splice site variant predicted to disrupt the wildtype splice acceptor and create a novel acceptor site 8 nucleotides upstream of RPGR exon 12. Reverse-transcription PCR analyses confirmed the disruption of the correct splicing pattern, leading to the insertion of eight additional nucleotides in the variant transcript. Transcript analyses with minigene assays and cDNA from peripheral blood are useful tools for the characterization of splicing defects due to variants in the RPGR and may increase the diagnostic yield in RP. The functional analysis of non-canonical splice variants is required to classify those variants as pathogenic according to the ACMG’s criteria.
Factors Related to Quality of Life of Hemodialysis Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Szu Li-Yun , Chang Chih-Hsiang , Hsieh Suh-Ing , Shih Whei-Mei , Huang Lan-Mei , Tsai Mei-Chu , Tseng Su-Mei
Published: April 2023

Taiwan had the second highest number globally of end-stage renal disease patients undergoing treatment in 2018. A meta-analysis of Chen et al. (2021) showed the incidence and mortality rates of COVID-19 were 7.7% and 22.4%, respectively. Few studies have explored the effects of patients’ self-participation and perceptions of hemodialysis on their quality of life. This study aimed to explore the factors related to hemodialysis patients’ quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study was a descriptive correlational study. Patients were recruited (n = 298) from the hemodialysis unit of a medical center in northern Taiwan. Variables included patients’ sociodemographic, psychological, spiritual, and clinical characteristics (i.e., perceived health level, comorbidities, hemodialysis duration, weekly frequency, transportation, and accompaniment during hemodialysis), perceptions of hemodialysis, self-participation in hemodialysis, and health-related quality of life (KDQOL-36 scale). Data were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate and multivariate linear regression. Multivariate linear regression, after adjusting for covariates, showed that anxiety, self-perceived health status, two vs. four comorbidities, and self-participation in hemodialysis were significantly associated with quality of life. The overall model was significant and accounted for 52.2% (R2 = 0.522) of the variance in quality of life during hemodialysis (adjusted R2 = 0.480). In conclusion, the quality of life of hemodialysis patients with mild, moderate, or severe anxiety was poorer, whereas that of patients with fewer comorbidities, higher self-perceived health status, and higher self-participation in hemodialysis was better.
Onset Time of Lumbar Erector Spinae Plane Block Compared with Its Thoracic Counterpart: Case Reports
Authors: Chung Wei-Chen , Kuo Yi-Jie , Chan Shun-Ming , Hou Jin-De , Lin Ting-Hsun , Lin Jui-An
Published: April 2023

The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) at the level of the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5) is a novel technique, first published in 2016, which was found to be effective in both acute and chronic pain control. The mechanism of action and spread of local anesthetic of the ESPB at the lumbar region are thought to differ from those of the thoracic ESPB; however, the difference in onset time has never been evaluated. As for the onset of lumbar ESPBs, we presented three cases: two received lumbar ESPBs (one with chronic low back pain and one with acute postoperative hip pain), and the third one with chronic back pain received a thoracic ESPB. We administered 30 mL of 0.3% ropivacaine in all three patients, but the analgesic effect did not reach its maximum until 3 and 1.5 h, respectively, in the lumbar ESPB cases. On the contrary, the thoracic ESPB case experienced noticeable pain relief within 30 min. The onset time was considerably longer than that reported in earlier reports on ESPBs, and the lumbar ESPB achieved its peak effect much later than the thoracic ESPB using the same formula of local anesthetic. While the delayed-onset lumbar ESPB may have some drawbacks for treating acute postoperative pain, it still could produce significant analgesia, once it took effect, when given to patients suffering from hip surgery with large incisions and intractable low back pain. The current data suggested that the onset time of a lumbar ESPB may be delayed compared with its thoracic counterpart. Therefore, the local anesthetic formula and injection timing should be adjusted for a lumbar ESPB when applied in the perioperative period to make the onset of the analgesic effect coincide with the immediate postoperative pain. Without this concept in mind, clinicians may consider a lumbar ESPB to be ineffective before it takes effect, and consequently treat the patients inadequately with this technique. Future randomized controlled trials should be designed according to our observations to compare lumbar ESPB with its thoracic counterpart regarding onset time.
Effectiveness of Multicomponent Interventions and Physical Activity in the Workplace to Reduce Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jiménez-Mérida M. Rocío , Vaquero-Abellán Manuel , Alcaide-Leyva José M. , Cantón-Habas Vanesa , Raya-Cano Elena , Romero-Saldaña Manuel
Published: April 2023

Background: Overweight and obesity are public health problems that affects the workplace. This paper aims to analyse the effectiveness of workplace health promotion interventions in reducing Body Mass Index (BMI); Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, and SCOPUS databases. The inverse variance statistical method was used for the meta-analysis with a random effects analysis model and standardised means. The results have been represented by Forest Plots and Funnel Plots graphs; Results: The multicomponent approach had the best results for reducing BMI (−0.14 [−0.24, −0.03], 95% CI; p = 0.009) compared to performing physical activity only (−0.09 [−0.39, 0.21], 95% CI; p = 0.56). However, both methods resulted in positive changes in reducing BMI in the general analysis (−0.12 [−0.22, −0.02], 95% CI; p = 0.01). The GRADE evaluation showed low certainty due to the high heterogeneity between interventions (I2 = 59% for overall analysis). Conclusions: The multicomponent approach could be an effective intervention to reduce obesity in the working population. However, workplace health promotion programs must be standardised to conduct quality analyses and highlight their importance to workers’ well-being.
Correlation between Destructive and Non-Destructive Measurements of Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) Fruit during Maturation
Authors: Smrke Tina , Stajner Natasa , Cesar Tjasa , Veberic Robert , Hudina Metka , Jakopic Jerneja
Published: April 2023

A relatively new, non-destructive, method for the assessment of optimal blueberry fruit maturity directly on the plant uses a DA-meter (delta absorbance) to measure chlorophyll absorbance (IAD). Here, ‘Aurora’ fruit quality parameters (peel color, fruit firmness), chemical composition (individual sugars, organic acids and phenolics) and the relative expression of anthocyanidin synthase (ANS) genes were examined at four different maturity stages (immature, light purple, darker purple, fully ripe). All observed parameters changed significantly during ripening and sometimes exhibited high correlation with IAD values, as R2 values ranged between 0.61 and 0.97. Peel lightness (L*), chroma (C*), fruit firmness and organic acids significantly decreased during ripening, while sugars, sugar/organic acid ratio, total phenolics and relative expression of ANS significantly increased. The current study is the first to determine IAD values during different maturity stages of ‘Aurora’ fruit using a DA-meter and to evaluate their correlation with the most commonly used quality parameters of ripe fruit, fruit chemical composition and relative expression of ANS.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Tourist Travel Risk Perception and Travel Behaviour: A Case Study of Poland
Authors: Jęczmyk Anna , Uglis Jarosław , Zawadka Jan , Pietrzak-Zawadka Joanna , Wojcieszak-Zbierska Monika Małgorzata , Kozera-Kowalska Magdalena
Published: April 2023

This article aims to identify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the perception of the risk of travel and travel behaviour by Poles. The study was conducted using the survey method and the CAWI technique and was carried out in January 2021. The final research sample consisted of 509 respondents. Tourism has always been exposed to various threats: natural disasters, terrorism, etc. In such cases, tourists choose a different, safe direction. However, in 2020, tourism found itself facing a crisis that brought it to a complete stop worldwide. The spread of the COVID-19 virus and safety concerns, as well as global travel restrictions, led to a change in travel during this time. The results show that the respondents resigned especially from going abroad for security reasons, choosing to rather stay in the country and other places that, from their point of view, were safer places to rest.
A Path to a Reduction in Micro and Nanoplastics Pollution
Authors: Meegoda Jay N. , Hettiarachchi Mala C.
Published: April 2023

Microplastics (MP) are plastic particles less than 5 mm in size. There are two categories of MP: primary and secondary. Primary or microscopic-sized MP are intentionally produced material. Fragmentation of large plastic debris through physical, chemical, and oxidative processes creates secondary MP, the most abundant type in the environment. Microplastic pollution has become a global environmental problem due to their abundance, poor biodegradability, toxicological properties, and negative impact on aquatic and terrestrial organisms including humans. Plastic debris enters the aquatic environment via direct dumping or uncontrolled land-based sources. While plastic debris slowly degrades into MP, wastewater and stormwater outlets discharge a large amount of MP directly into water bodies. Additionally, stormwater carries MP from sources such as tire wear, artificial turf, fertilizers, and land-applied biosolids. To protect the environment and human health, the entry of MP into the environment must be reduced or eliminated. Source control is one of the best methods available. The existing and growing abundance of MP in the environment requires the use of multiple strategies to combat pollution. These strategies include reducing the usage, public outreach to eliminate littering, reevaluation and use of new wastewater treatment and sludge disposal methods, regulations on macro and MP sources, and a wide implementation of appropriate stormwater management practices such as filtration, bioretention, and wetlands.
Persicae Semen Promotes Bone Union in Rat Fractures by Stimulating Osteoblastogenesis through BMP-2 and Wnt Signaling
Authors: Jun Jae-Yun , Kim Jae-Hyun , Kim Minsun , Hong Sooyeon , Kim Myunghyun , Ryu Gwang-Hyun , Park Jae , Jung Hyuk-Sang , Sohn Youngjoo
Published: April 2023

Fractures cause extreme pain to patients and impair movement, thereby significantly reducing their quality of life. However, in fracture patients, movement of the fracture site is restricted through application of a cast, and they are reliant on conservative treatment through calcium intake. Persicae semen (PS) is the dried mature seeds of Prunus persica (L.) Batsch, and in this study the effects of PS on osteoblast differentiation and bone union promotion were investigated. The osteoblast-differentiation-promoting effect of PS was investigated through alizarin red S and Von Kossa staining, and the regulatory role of PS on BMP-2 (Bmp2) and Wnt (Wnt10b) signaling, representing a key mechanism, was demonstrated at the protein and mRNA levels. In addition, the bone-union-promoting effect of PS was investigated in rats with fractured femurs. The results of the cell experiments showed that PS promotes mineralization and upregulates RUNX2 through BMP-2 and Wnt signaling. PS induced the expression of various osteoblast genes, including Alpl, Bglap, and Ibsp. The results of animal experiments show that the PS group had improved bone union and upregulated expression of osteogenic genes. Overall, the results of this study suggest that PS can promote fracture recovery by upregulating osteoblast differentiation and bone formation, and thus can be considered a new therapeutic alternative for fracture patients.
Anti-Neuroinflammatory and Neuroprotective Effect of Intermedin B Isolated from the Curcuma longa L. via NF-κB and ROS Inhibition in BV2 Microglia and HT22 Hippocampal Cells
Authors: Lee Hwan , Liu Zhiming , Dong Linsha , Lee Dae Young , Yoon Dahye , Oh Hyuncheol , Kim Youn-Chul , An Ren-Bo , Lee Dong-Sung
Published: April 2023

Compounds derived from Curcuma longa L. (C. longa) have been extensively studied and reported to be effective and safe for the prevention and treatment of various diseases, but most research has been focused on curcuminoids derived from C. longa. As neurodegenerative diseases are associated with oxidation and inflammation, the present study aimed to isolate and identify active compounds other than curcuminoids from C. longa to develop substances to treat these diseases. Seventeen known compounds, including curcuminoids, were chromatographically isolated from the methanol extracts of C. longa, and their chemical structures were identified using 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. Among the isolated compounds, intermedin B exhibited the best antioxidant effect in the hippocampus and anti-inflammatory effect in microglia. Furthermore, intermedin B was confirmed to inhibit the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p-65 and IκBα, exerting anti-inflammatory effects and inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species, exerting neuroprotective effects. These results highlight the research value of active components other than curcuminoids in C. longa-derived compounds and suggest that intermedin B may be a promising candidate for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
Sweat Testing for the Detection of Methylone after Controlled Administrations in Humans
Authors: Di Giorgi Alessandro , Sprega Giorgia , Poyatos Lourdes , Papaseit Esther , Pérez-Mañá Clara , Di Trana Annagiulia , Varì Maria Rosaria , Busardò Francesco Paolo , Pichini Simona , Zaami Simona , Lo Faro Alfredo Fabrizio , Farré Magí
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the excretion of methylone and its metabolites in sweat following the ingestion of increasing controlled doses of 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg of methylone to twelve healthy volunteers involved in a clinical trial. Methylone and its metabolites 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-N-methylcathinone (HMMC) and 3,4-methylenedioxycathinone (MDC) were analyzed in sweat patches by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Methylone and MDC were detected in sweat at 2 h and reached their highest accumulation (Cmax) at 24 h after the administration of 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg doses. In contrast, HMMC was not detectable at any time interval after each dose. Sweat proved to be a suitable matrix for methylone and its metabolites’ determination in clinical and toxicological studies, providing a concentration that reveals recent drug consumption.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Is an Independent Risk Factor for Coronary Artery Disease in Central Obesity
Authors: Bagyura Zsolt , Kiss Loretta , Lux Árpád , Csobay-Novák Csaba , Jermendy Ádám L. , Polgár Lívia , Tabák Ádám G. , Soós Pál , Szelid Zsolt , Merkely Béla , Kőhidai László , Pállinger Éva
Published: April 2023

Several inflammatory biomarkers were found to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a marker of subclinical inflammation that increases with the stress response. Visceral adiposity index (VAI) calculated as a combination of anthropometric and metabolic parameters reflects both the extent and function of visceral adipose tissue. Given the association of subclinical inflammation with both obesity and cardiovascular diseases, it is plausible that the inflammation–CVD association is modulated by the amount and function of adipose tissue. Thus, our aim was to examine the association between NLR and coronary artery calcium score (CACS), an intermediate marker of coronary artery disease in asymptomatic patients across VAI tertiles. Methods: Data from 280 asymptomatic participants of a cardiovascular screening program were analysed. In addition to the collection of lifestyle and medical history, a non-contrast cardiac CT scan and laboratory tests were performed on all participants. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted with CACS > 100 as the outcome and with conventional cardiovascular risk factors and NLR, VAI, and NLR by VAI tertile as predictors. Results: We found an interaction between VAI tertiles and NLR; NLR values were similar in the lower VAI tertiles, while they were higher in the CACS > 100 in the 3rd VAI tertile (CACS ≤ 100: 1.94 ± 0.58 vs. CACS > 100: 2.48 ± 1.1, p = 0.008). According to multivariable logistic regression, the interaction between NLR and VAI tertiles remained: NLR was associated with CACS > 100 in the 3rd VAI tertile (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.06–2.62, p = 0.03) but not in the lower tertiles even after adjustment for age, sex, smoking, history of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and diabetes mellitus, as well as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Our findings draw attention to the independent association between subclinical, chronic, systemic inflammation and subclinical coronary disease in obesity.
Prognostic Factors Affecting Death in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Complicated by Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia and One-Year Clinical Course: The ANSWER Cohort Study
Authors: Shiba Hideyuki , Kotani Takuya , Nagai Koji , Hata Kenichiro , Yamamoto Wataru , Yoshikawa Ayaka , Wada Yumiko , Hiramatsu Yuri , Makino Hidehiko , Ueda Yo , Onishi Akira , Murata Koichi , Amuro Hideki , Son Yonsu , Hara Ryota , Hirano Toru , Ebina Kosuke , Katayama Masaki , Hashimoto Motomu , Takeuchi Tohru
Published: April 2023

This multicenter retrospective study aimed to clarify the prognostic factors for mortality and changes in treatment modalities and disease activities after the onset of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Data regarding the clinical background, treatment modalities, and disease activity indicators of RA at the onset of PCP (baseline), and 6 months and 12 months after treatment were extracted. Of the 37 patients with RA-PCP (median age, 69 years; 73% female), chemical prophylaxis was administered to 8.1%. Six patients died during PCP treatment. The serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the prednisolone (PDN) dose at baseline in the PCP death group were significantly higher than those in the survivor group. Multivariate analysis using a Cox regression model showed that PDN dose at baseline was a predictor of death from PCP in patients with RA. During the 12 months from baseline, the RA disease activity significantly decreased. A high dose of corticosteroids for RA may result in a poor prognosis when PCP is complicated. In the future, preventive administration techniques must be established for patients with RA who need PCP prevention.
Genetic Etiology of Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss in Hungarian Patients
Authors: Pál Margit , Nagy Dóra , Neller Alexandra , Farkas Katalin , Leprán-Török Dóra , Nagy Nikoletta , Füstös Dalma , Nagy Roland , Németh Adrienne , Szilvássy Judit , Rovó László , Kiss József Géza , Széll Márta
Published: April 2023

Hearing loss is the most prevalent sensory disorder worldwide. The majority of congenital nonsyndromic hearing loss (NSHL) cases are caused by hereditary factors. Previously, the majority of NSHL studies focused on the GJB2 gene; however, with the availability of next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods, the number of novel variants associated with NSHL has increased. The purpose of this study was to design effective genetic screening for a Hungarian population based on a pilot study with 139 NSHL patients. A stepwise, comprehensive genetic approach was developed, including bidirectional capillary sequencing, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), and an NGS panel of 108 hearing loss genes. With our results, a genetic diagnosis was possible for 92 patients. Sanger sequencing and MLPA identified the genetic background of 50% of these diagnosed cases, and the NGS panel identified another 16%. The vast majority (92%) of the diagnosed cases showed autosomal recessive inheritance and 76% were attributed to GJB2. The implementation of this stepwise analysis markedly increased our diagnostic yield and proved to be cost-effective as well.
Resveratrol Attenuates the Mitochondrial RNA-Mediated Cellular Response to Immunogenic Stress
Authors: Yoon Jimin , Ku Doyeong , Lee Minseok , Lee Namseok , Im Sung Gap , Kim Yoosik
Published: April 2023

Human mitochondria contain a circular genome that encodes 13 subunits of the oxidative phosphorylation system. In addition to their role as powerhouses of the cells, mitochondria are also involved in innate immunity as the mitochondrial genome generates long double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) that can activate the dsRNA-sensing pattern recognition receptors. Recent evidence shows that these mitochondrial dsRNAs (mt-dsRNAs) are closely associated with the pathogenesis of human diseases that accompany inflammation and aberrant immune activation, such as Huntington’s disease, osteoarthritis, and autoimmune Sjögren’s syndrome. Yet, small chemicals that can protect cells from a mt-dsRNA-mediated immune response remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigate the potential of resveratrol (RES), a plant-derived polyphenol with antioxidant properties, on suppressing mt-dsRNA-mediated immune activation. We show that RES can revert the downstream response to immunogenic stressors that elevate mitochondrial RNA expressions, such as stimulation by exogenous dsRNAs or inhibition of ATP synthase. Through high-throughput sequencing, we find that RES can regulate mt-dsRNA expression, interferon response, and other cellular responses induced by these stressors. Notably, RES treatment fails to counter the effect of an endoplasmic reticulum stressor that does not affect the expression of mitochondrial RNAs. Overall, our study demonstrates the potential usage of RES to alleviate the mt-dsRNA-mediated immunogenic stress response.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Effect of the DHN Melanin Biosynthesis Pathway on the Appressorium Turgor Pressure of the Poplar Anthracnose-Causing Fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Qin Xinyu , Tian Chengming , Meng Fanli
Published: April 2023

Anthracnose of poplar caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is a leaf disease that seriously affects poplar growth. The pathogen invades the host in the form of adherent cells, which generate turgor pressure through the metabolism of intracellular substances prior to penetrating the epidermis of poplar leaves. In this study, the expansion-related pressure of the mature appressorium of the wild-type C. gloeosporioides was approximately 13.02 ± 1.54 MPa at 12 h, whereas it was 7.34 ± 1.23 MPa and 9.34 ± 2.22 MPa in the melanin synthesis-related gene knockout mutants ΔCgCmr1 and ΔCgPks1, respectively. The CgCmr1 and CgPks1 genes were highly expressed at 12 h in the wild-type control, implying that the DHN melanin biosynthesis pathway may play an important role in the mature appressorium stage. The transcriptome sequencing analysis indicated that the upregulated melanin biosynthesis genes in C. gloeosporioides, such as CgScd1, CgAyg1, CgThr1, CgThr2, and CgLac1, are involved in specific KEGG pathways (i.e., fatty acid biosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and biotin metabolism). Therefore, we speculate that the melanin synthesis-related genes and fatty acid metabolism pathway genes contribute to the regulation of the turgor pressure in the mature C. gloeosporioides appressorium, ultimately leading to the formation of infection pegs that enter plant tissues. These observations may reflect the co-evolution of C. gloeosporioides and its host.
The Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in Metabolic Diseases and Other Pathologies
Authors: Ortiz Rudy M. , Satou Ryousuke , Zhuo Jia L. , Nishiyama Akira
Published: April 2023

It has been our pleasure to have been able to develop two special issues within the International Journal of Molecular Sciences: (1) Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in Pathologies and (2) Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in Metabolism & Disease [...]
Ursolic Acid against Prostate and Urogenital Cancers: A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Kornel Amanda , Nadile Matteo , Retsidou Maria Ilektra , Sakellakis Minas , Gioti Katerina , Beloukas Apostolos , Sze Newman Siu Kwan , Klentrou Panagiota , Tsiani Evangelia
Published: April 2023

Prostate cancer is the second most diagnosed form of cancer in men worldwide and accounted for roughly 1.3 million cases and 359,000 deaths globally in 2018, despite all the available treatment strategies including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Finding novel approaches to prevent and treat prostate and other urogenital cancers effectively is of major importance. Chemicals derived from plants, such as docetaxel and paclitaxel, have been used in cancer treatment, and in recent years, research interest has focused on finding other plant-derived chemicals that can be used in the fight against cancer. Ursolic acid, found in high concentrations in cranberries, is a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In the present review, we summarize the research studies examining the effects of ursolic acid and its derivatives against prostate and other urogenital cancers. Collectively, the existing data indicate that ursolic acid inhibits human prostate, renal, bladder, and testicular cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis. A limited number of studies have shown significant reduction in tumor volume in animals xenografted with human prostate cancer cells and treated with ursolic acid. More animal studies and human clinical studies are required to examine the potential of ursolic acid to inhibit prostate and other urogenital cancers in vivo.
Metabolic Overlap between Alzheimer’s Disease and Metabolic Syndrome Identifies the PVRL2 Gene as a New Modulator of Diabetic Dyslipidemia
Authors: Guardiola Montse , Muntané Gerard , Martínez Iris , Martorell Lourdes , Girona Josefa , Ibarretxe Daiana , Plana Núria , Bullido María J. , Vilella Elisabet , Ribalta Josep
Published: April 2023

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) share metabolic alterations such as abnormal insulin and lipid metabolism and have some common genetic factors such as APOE genotype. Taking this into account, we hypothesized that we could identify common genetic factors involved in the development of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Methodology: We first genotyped 48 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously associated with AD in a cohort composed of 330 patients with cognitive impairment (CI) to assess their association with plasma lipids. Second, we conducted pleiotropy-informed conjunctional false discovery rate (FDR) analysis designed to identify shared variants between AD and plasma lipid levels. Finally, we used the SNPs to be found associated with lipid parameters and AD to search for associations with lipoprotein parameters in 281 patients with cardiometabolic risk. Results: Five SNPs were significantly associated with lower levels of cholesterol transported in remnant lipoprotein particles (RLPc) in subjects with CI; among these SNPs was the rs73572039 variant in PVRL2. Stratified QQ-plots were conducted on GWAS designed for AD and triglycerides (TG). The cross-trait analysis resulted in a total of 22 independent genomic loci associated with both AD and TG levels with a conjFDR < 0.05. Among these loci, two pleiotropic variants were located in PVRL2 (rs12978931 and rs11667640). The three SNPs in PVRL2 were significantly associated with RLPc, TG, and number of circulating VLDL and HDL particles in subjects with cardiometabolic risk. Conclusions: We have identified three variants in PVRL2 that predispose individuals to AD that also influence the lipid profile that confers cardiovascular risk in T2DM subjects. PVRL2 is a potential new modulating factor of atherogenic dyslipidemia.
NTS, NTSR1 and ERs in the Pituitary–Gonadal Axis of Cycling and Postnatal Female Rats after BPA Treatment
Authors: González-Gómez Miriam , Reyes Ricardo , Damas-Hernández Mª del Carmen , Plasencia-Cruz Xiomara , González-Marrero Ibrahim , Alonso Rafael , Bello Aixa R.
Published: April 2023

The neuropeptide neurotensin (NTS) is involved in regulating the reproductive axis and is expressed at each level of this axis (hypothalamus–pituitary–gonads). This dependence on estrogen levels has been widely demonstrated in the hypothalamus and pituitary. We focused on confirming the relationship of NTS with estrogens and the gonadal axis, using a particularly important environmental estrogenic molecule, bisphenol-A (BPA). Based on the experimental models or in vitro cell studies, it has been shown that BPA can negatively affect reproductive function. We studied for the first time the action of an exogenous estrogenic substance on the expression of NTS and estrogen receptors in the pituitary-gonadal axis during prolonged in vivo exposure. The exposure to BPA at 0.5 and 2 mg/kg body weight per day during gestation and lactation was monitored through indirect immunohistochemical procedures applied to the pituitary and ovary sections. Our results demonstrate that BPA induces alterations in the reproductive axis of the offspring, mainly after the first postnatal week. The rat pups exposed to BPA exhibited accelerated sexual maturation to puberty. There was no effect on the number of rats born per litter, although the fewer primordial follicles suggest a shorter fertile life.