bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting Handgrip Strength in Menopausal Women at High Risk of Sarcopenia: A National Population-Based Study
Authors: Lee Anna , Park Sooyeon
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Hand grip strength (HGS) reflects muscle strength and is an important indicator of sarcopenia. There is a gap in the research regarding the determinants of relative HGS that take sex differences into account. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association between relative HGS and physical, behavioral, and psychological factors in menopausal women from South Korea. Methods: This study used data obtained from the 7th National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–2018), which had a complex, stratified, and multistage sample design. A total of 2129 menopausal women aged between 40 and 64 were included in this cross-sectional study. To evaluate physical, behavioral, and psychological factors associated with relative HGS, a multiple regression analysis was used. Results: In this study, the sociodemographic factors that influenced relative HGS were education (high school: B = 0.03, p = 0.001; college: B = 0.04, p = 0.003) and marital status (live with: B = 0.04, p = 0.004). Among the physical factors, abdominal obesity (B = −0.16, p < 0.001) and comorbidities (B = −0.03, p = 0.026) were associated with a significantly lower relative HGS. Regarding behavioral factors, relative HGS was significantly lower for those who slept more than 8 h (B = −0.03, p = 0.041) than for those who slept 6–8 h. Regarding psychological factors, relative HGS was significantly higher for those with fair (B = 0.04, p = 0.001) and good (B = 0.06, p < 0.001) self-rated health. Conclusions: Relative HGS is associated with physical, behavioral, and psychological factors in menopausal women. These findings can inform research and guidelines for sarcopenia prevention using relative HGS as an indicator of health status.
Improving Data-Informed Care in New Brunswick Long-Term Care Homes: A Qualitative Study on an Educational Intervention for interRAI Coordinators
Authors: MacLean Rachel , Durepos Pamela , Keeping-Burke Lisa , McCloskey Rose
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: InterRAI is a globally validated platform aimed at improving care for individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs, particularly in long-term care settings. This study explores the experiences of interRAI coordinators in New Brunswick, Canada, and their perceptions of an educational intervention designed to enhance their ability to effectively use interRAI data for quality care. Methods: The study recruited interRAI coordinators from 73 New Brunswick long-term care homes for an educational intervention. Nine coordinators participated in interviews about their experiences. A qualitative descriptive approach was used to analyze field notes and interview transcripts with thematic analysis. Results: Nine interviews and six sets of field notes were collected over one year, focusing on the roles of interRAI coordinators. Participants (all female, averaging 54 years old) expressed positive perceptions of the intervention, noting increased knowledge and collaboration. Key themes included the context of the interRAI coordinator role, the use of interRAI data for quality indicators, and recommendations for future educational initiatives. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the critical role of interRAI coordinators in improving quality care in long-term care settings through effective data use and collaboration. Participants reported that the educational intervention significantly improved their understanding and application of interRAI data. Recommendations for ongoing training and broader engagement stress the importance of continuous support to advance care quality in long-term care homes.
How Does Digital Integration Influence the Mental Health of Low-Income Populations?
Authors: Wen Xiaoli , Tian Beihai
Published: December 2024

Background: In recent years, the growing prevalence of digital technology has transformed every aspect of life, including mental health care and support. Digital integration—referring to both access to digital technology and the utilization of digital tools in daily life—has the potential to alleviate existing health inequalities, a phenomenon that has been labeled the ‘digital divide’. It is, therefore, imperative to gain an understanding of the mental health dynamics of vulnerable groups in the context of the digital age if we are to develop effective policies and interventions. Objectives: The present study aimed to expand the existing knowledge base on the impact of digital integration on the mental health of low-income populations, with a specific focus on its association with social participation and the contextual variations observed between urban and rural settings. Methods: A total of 930 Chinese urban and rural low-income residents (≥18 years old) were included in the study using data from the Comprehensive Social Survey of Urban and Rural Low-Income Populations in Hubei Province, China, 2022. Multiple linear regression, generalized propensity score matching, causal step regression, and bootstrap methods were adopted to assess the direct impact of digital integration on the mental health of low-income populations, as well as to test the mediating role of social participation. Results: Digital integration was positively associated with the mental health of low-income populations, particularly reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among low-income individuals, which remains robust even after accounting for potential selective bias. Social participation played a significant mediating role in the relationship between digital integration and the mental health of low-income populations. Heterogeneity analyses indicated that while digital integration has been demonstrated to markedly enhance mental health outcomes among urban low-income groups, this effect has not been observed in rural low-income populations. Conclusions: The present study contributes to the growing understanding of digital integration as a pathway to reducing mental health inequalities. It is imperative that targeted interventions be implemented to enhance digital integration and, in turn, improve mental health outcomes in low-income communities, particularly in rural areas, where the impact is less discernible.
Assessment of Native Wild Macromycete Strains for Mycoremediation of Copper-Contaminated Soils in Coffee Plantations
Authors: Castellanos De La Cruz Areli , Rincón-Molina Clara Ivette , Manzano-Gómez Luis Alberto , Ruiz-Valdiviezo Víctor Manuel , Gen-Jiménez Adriana , Villalobos-Maldonado Juan José , Rincón-Molina Francisco Alexander , Garrido-Ramírez Eduardo , Rincón-Rosales Reiner
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates the mycoremediation potential of wild mushroom species from Chiapas, Mexico, specifically for high copper concentrations. Nine fungal carpophores were collected from tropical forests near coffee plantations. The morphological characteristics of the fungal strains and fruiting bodies were analyzed. Each specimen was identified through sequencing using the ITS1 and ITS4 primers. The ability to tolerate different concentrations of copper was evaluated by determining the fungal mycelial growth inhibition potential. Copper bioaccumulation by the fungi was quantified using biosorption assays with atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The enzymatic activity of laccase, lignin peroxidase, and manganese peroxidase from the fungal species was also determined in the presence of copper. Phylogenetic analysis identified the fungal species as Agaricus bisporus, A. subrufescens, Calvatia fragilis, Ganoderma coffeatum, G. lucidum, Pleurotus djmor, P. floridanus, Trametes elegans, and T. versicolor, all classified within the Agaromycetes class. The nine fungal species exhibited varying abilities to tolerate Cu2+ concentrations from 30 to 100 mg L−1. At 30 and 60 mg L−1 Cu2+, the G. lucidum H14-35 strain demonstrated the highest biosorption capacity, reaching 76.97%. Overall, the mushrooms in this study showed strong Cu2⁺ tolerance and biosorption, making them promising biomaterials for remediating copper-contaminated soils.
Prunus Movement Across the Silk Road: An Integrated Evolutionary and Breeding Analysis
Authors: Rodríguez-Robles Lucía , Devin Sama Rahimi , Ye Xia , Sagbas Halil Ibrahim , Mahdavi Sayyed Mohammad Ehsan , Wettberg Eric Bishop-von , Feng Jiancan , Rubio Manuel , Martínez-Gómez Pedro
Published: December 2024

In the past, the Silk Road was a vital trade route that spanned Eurasia, connecting East Asia to the Mediterranean Sea. The genus Prunus, belonging to the Rosaceae family and encompassing plums, peaches, apricots, cherries, and almonds, thrived as human travel along the Silk Road increased. The majority of fruits within this genus, whether wild or cultivated, are naturally sweet and easily preserved by drying for storage and transport. The interaction along the Silk Road between wild populations and diverse varieties of Prunus fruits led to the development of various hybrids. This article provides a summary of archaeological findings related to prominent Prunus fruits such as peaches, apricots, plums, cherries, and almonds, shedding light on their evolutionary history, genetic diversity, population structure, and historical dynamics crucial for species conservation. The origins of biodiversity may involve factors like migration of pre-adapted lineages, in situ variation, or the persistence of ancestral lineages. Furthermore, climate change is affecting spatial genetic patterns and potentially further threatening rare Prunus species. Evaluating the scope and composition of genetic diversity within germplasm collections is essential for enhancing plant breeding initiatives and preserving genetic resources in this changing context. From a molecular point of view, techniques such as genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and genes responsible for phenotypic changes in cultivars and germplasm collections should be of great interest in these breeding programs, while genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) derived from genome-wide DNA polymorphism information can facilitate the selection of superior genotypes.
The Spatiotemporal Estimation of the Chupaderos Aquifer Groundwater Recharge for 2020 Based on the Soil Moisture Approach and Remote Sensing
Authors: López-Cuevas María , Pacheco-Guerrero Anuard , Olmos-Trujillo Edith , Ramírez-Juárez Juan Ernesto , Badillo-Olvera Anuar , Ávila-Sandoval Claudia , Badillo-Almaraz Hiram
Published: December 2024

Groundwater, which is widely used in arid regions due to scarcity of surface sources, has excellent quality and, under certain conditions, can be consumed directly. Human activities have caused climate change, leading to decreased precipitation and increased temperatures, which reduces water recharge and increases underground extraction volume. To estimate the natural recharge of the Chupaderos aquifer, located in the State of Zacatecas, México, a spatiotemporal analysis methodology was used, using a soil moisture balance, which includes satellite information on precipitation and temperature, to obtain infiltration, evapotranspiration, and moisture. Using a Geographic Information System (GIS), a distributed spatial model was created in which the potential recharge areas that can be defined by raster images. The results show that there is a maximum annual recharge of 137 mm in the soil where Fluvisol and Kastanozem predominate, an indicator of a texture of sandy soil and franco-sandy area, which is mainly covered by forest and scrub. This result confirms that these characteristics are indispensable for the use of water in soil. Therefore, the preservation of the ecosystem is essential for aquifer recharge.
Extraordinary 21st Century Drought in the Po River Basin (Italy)
Authors: Ramírez Molina Abel Andrés , Tootle Glenn , Formetta Giuseppe , Piechota Thomas , Gong Jiaqi
Published: December 2024

Recent research identified 2022 as being the year of lowest seasonal April–May–June–July (AMJJ) observed streamflow for the Po River Basin (PRB) in the past two centuries. Expanding upon this research, we applied filters (2-year to 30-year filters) to the AMJJ observed streamflow and identified the late 20th and 21st century as displaying extreme drought. In this study, we introduce PALEO-RECON, an automated reconstruction tool developed to leverage tree ring-based proxies and streamline regression processes. Using PALEO-RECON, we reconstructed the AMJJ streamflow, applying traditional regression techniques and using a nested approach in which 30-, 40-, and 50-year windows within the ~200-year observed streamflow record (1807 to 2022) were evaluated to capture uncertainty. Focusing on the 21st century (2000 to 2022), while several droughts in the ~2000-year paleo record may have exceeded the 2000 to 2022 drought, the recent PRB drought ending in 2022 was the lowest 23-year period in approximately 500 years, acknowledging that uncertainty increases as we move further back in time. When examining paleo and observed AMJJ streamflow records, deficit and surplus periods were evaluated, focusing on the potential “whiplash” between drought and pluvial events. We observed an increase in the frequency of whiplash events, which may be associated with a changing climate.
Measuring the Risk of Violence Through Health Surveillance
Authors: Magnavita Nicola , Meraglia Igor , Viti Giacomo , Gasbarri Martina
Published: December 2024

Workplace violence (WV) is a ubiquitous, yet under-reported and under-studied phenomenon. Prevention measures may be ineffective because risk assessment is often based on unvalidated algorithms. After monitoring the risk of WV in a healthcare company for over 20 years, this paper presents the results collected in 2023 and details of the methodology used. Monitoring WV in health surveillance can involve three actions: (1) asking all the workers who attend periodic medical examinations in the workplace whether they have suffered physical aggression, threats, or harassment in the previous year; (2) investigating WV at the end of workplace inspections by setting up participatory ergonomics groups (PEGs) to suggest solutions; (3) investigating the characteristics and consequences of WV through anonymous online questionnaires. In 2023, 6.9% of the healthcare workers (HCWs) reported having experienced one or more physical attacks during the previous year; 12.7% reported having been threatened, and 12.9% reported other types of violent, harassing behavior. The HCWs observed an increase in violence after the pandemic years and, in the PEGs, suggested using different preventive measures in different health departments. The online survey provided further information on the characteristics of WV and its consequences. The risk of WV can be effectively characterized and measured through health surveillance.
Lactobacillus agilis SNF7 Presents Excellent Antibacteria and Anti-Inflammation Properties in Mouse Diarrhea Induced by Escherichia coli
Authors: Feng Mingque , Cheng Jia , Su Yalan , Tong Jingdi , Wen Xiangfu , Jin Tianxiong , Ren Meiyi , Song Deyuan , Song Jinshang , Li Xiaohan , Xie Qinna , Liu Mingchao
Published: December 2024

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common pathogen that causes diarrhea in newborns and animals. Antibiotics are typically used to treat bacterial diarrhea, a global intestinal health issue. Probiotics have gained interest as a potential substitute for antibiotics in the management of E. coli-induced diarrhea and present novel therapeutic options. In this study, the probiotic properties of Lactobacillus agilis SNF7 (L. agilis SNF7) isolated from feces were investigated, and whole genome sequencing was performed to evaluate the properties of the strain. Furthermore, we investigated the protective effects of L. agilis SNF7 in a mouse model of E. coli K99 infection. L. agilis SNF7 exhibits a high survival rate in artificial gastroenteric fluid and bile salt environments, along with an antagonistic effect against E. coli O111:K58 (B4), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and E. coli K99. Multiple genes with probiotic properties, including bacteriostasis, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, CAZyme, and the utilization of carbohydrate compounds, were identified in genome. L. agilis SNF7 prevented the gut barrier from being damaged by E. coli K99, reducing the clinical manifestations of the infection. Furthermore, L. agilis SNF7 reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) by inhibiting the phosphorylation of proteins linked to the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. L. agilis SNF7 improved the intestinal microbial barrier, controlled the balance of the intestinal microecology, and reduced the entry of harmful microbes into the intestine. By controlling gut flora and reducing the inflammatory response, L. agilis SNF7 may be able to prevent and treat E. coli K99 infections. The application of L. agilis SNF7 in the creation of probiotic formulations to stop intestinal illnesses brought on by E. coli infections is clarified by this work.
Evaluating Apelin as a Potential Biomarker in Major Depressive Disorder: Its Correlation with Clinical Symptomatology
Authors: Chibaatar Enkhmurun , Fujii Rintarou , Ikenouchi Atsuko , Okamoto Naomichi , Natsuyama Tomoya , Hayasaki Gaku , Shinkai Takahiro , Yoshimura Reiji
Published: December 2024

To date, only a limited number of studies have investigated the potential effects of apelin on mood regulation and emotional behavior. Therefore, this study investigated apelin’s role in major depressive disorder (MDD) by comparing the serum and plasma apelin concentrations between 30 patients with MDD and 30 healthy controls (HCs), and the correlated serum and plasma apelin levels and the severity of depressive symptoms using the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Blood samples were collected following 12 h of fasting, and the apelin levels were measured using an ELISA kit. The serum apelin concentrations showed no significant difference between the MDD and HC groups, while the plasma apelin levels were significantly lower in the MDD group (p = 0.002). Among the patients with MDD, a positive moderate correlation was observed between the total MADRS scores and plasma apelin levels (r = 0.439), with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Additionally, significant positive correlations (p < 0.05) were found between both the serum and plasma apelin levels and the MADRS subscales 5 (reduced appetite) and 6 (concentration difficulties). These preliminary findings, although not definitive, suggest that apelin profiles may help to identify distinct subgroups within MDD patients, warranting further investigation into the different apelin isoforms and their associations in different populations of MDD patients.
CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Protein β (C/EBPβ) Regulates Calcium Deposition in Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Choe Nakwon , Shin Sera , Kim Young-Kook , Kook Hyun , Kwon Duk-Hwa
Published: December 2024

Calcium deposition in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), a form of ectopic ossification in blood vessels, can result in rigidity of the vasculature and an increase in cardiac events. Here, we report that CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta (C/EBPβ) potentiates calcium deposition in VSMCs and mouse aorta induced by inorganic phosphate (Pi) or vitamin D3. Based on cDNA microarray and RNA sequencing data of Pi-treated rat VSMCs, C/EBPβ was found to be upregulated and thus selected for further evaluation. Quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot analysis confirmed that C/EBPβ was upregulated in Pi-treated A10 cells, a rat VSMC line, as well as vitamin D3-treated mouse aorta. The overexpression of C/EBPβ in A10 cells increased bone runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and osteopontin (OPN) mRNA in the presence of Pi, as well as potentiating the Pi-induced increase in calcium contents. The Runx2 expression was increased by C/EBPβ through Runx2 P2 promotor. Our results suggest that a Pi-induced increase in C/EBPβ is a critical step in vascular calcification.
Dysregulated miRNA Expression and Androgen Receptor Loss in Racially Distinct Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Bhattarai Shristi , Sugita Bruna M. , Nunes-Souza Emanuelle , Fonseca Aline S. , Chandrashekar Darshan Shimoga , Bhargava Mahak , Cavalli Luciane R. , Aneja Ritu
Published: December 2024

Androgen receptor (AR)-negative triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), often termed quadruple-negative breast cancer (QNBC), disproportionately impacts women of African descent, leading to poorer overall survival (OS). MiRNAs regulate the expression of gene drivers involved in critical signaling pathways in TNBC, such as the AR gene, and their expression varies across races and breast cancer subtypes. This study investigates whether differentially expressed miRNAs influence AR transcription, potentially contributing to the observed disparities between African American (AA) and European American (EA) QNBC patients. Race-annotated TNBC samples (n = 129) were analyzed for AR expression status and revealed the prevalence of QNBC in AA patients compared to EA (76.6% vs. 57.7%) and a significant association of AR loss with poor survival among AAs. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) RNA-seq data showed that AAs with TNBC (n = 32) had lower AR mRNA levels than EAs (n = 67). Among TCGA patients in the AR-low group, AAs had significantly poorer OS than EAs. In our cohort, 46 miRNAs exhibited differential expression between AAs and EAs with QNBC. Ten of these miRNAs (miR-1185-5p, miR-1305, miR-3161, miR-3690, miR-494-3p, miR-509-3-5p, miR-619-3p, miR-628-3p, miR-873-5p, and miR-877-5p) were predicted to target the AR gene/signaling. The loss of AR expression is linked to poorer prognoses in AA women. The understanding of the specific miRNAs involved and their regulatory mechanisms on AR expression could provide valuable insights into why AA women are more prone to QNBC.
Exosomes and miRNAs in Cardiovascular Diseases and Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement: Advancements, Gaps and Perspectives
Authors: Liang Runzhang , Abudurexiti Naijimuding , Wu Jiaxiong , Ling Jing , Peng Zirui , Yuan Haiyun , Wen Shusheng
Published: December 2024

As an important carrier of intercellular information transmission, exosomes regulate the physiological and pathological state of local or distant cells by carrying a variety of signal molecules such as microRNAs (miRNAs). Current research indicates that exosomes and miRNAs can serve as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for a variety of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This narrative review summarizes the research progress of exosomes and their miRNAs in CVDs, particularly in pulmonary valve diseases (PVDs), and, for the first time, explores their potential associations with transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR). Currently, miRNAs play a crucial role in determining the optimal timing for TPVR intervention, and they demonstrate broad application prospects in post-TPVR right ventricular (RV) remodeling, treatment, and prognosis monitoring. However, the association between exosomes and miRNAs and the development of PVDs, particularly pulmonary regurgitation, remains unclear. The molecular mechanisms of exosomes and miRNAs in PVDs and RV remodeling after TPVR have not been fully elucidated, and their application in postoperative treatment following TPVR is still in its infancy. Future research must focus on advancing fundamental studies, validating biomarkers, and enhancing clinical applications to achieve significant breakthroughs.
Application of an Anchor Mapping of Alien Chromosome (AMAC) Fragment Localization Method in the Identification of Radish Chromosome Segments in the Progeny of Rape–Radish Interspecific Hybrids
Authors: Zu Feng , Li Xia , Chen Wei , Wang Jingqiao , Luo Yanqing , Mehmood Sultan , Fan Chuchuan , Li Jinfeng , Dong Yunsong , Zhou Yongming , Li Genze
Published: December 2024

Rape (Brassica napus) is an important oilseed crop widely cultivated worldwide. Due to its relatively short evolutionary and domestication history, its intra-species genetic diversity is limited. Radish (Raphanus sativus), belonging to a different genus but the same family as B. nupus, possesses an abundance of excellent gene resources. It is commonly used for B. nupus germplasm improvement and genetic basis expansion, making it one of the most important close relatives for distant hybridization. In the present study, a novel method for detecting alien chromosome fragments, called Anchor Mapping of Alien Chromosome (AMAC) was used to identify radish chromosome segments in the progeny of rape–radish interspecific hybrids. Based on the AMAC method, 126,861 pairs of IP (Intron Polymorphism) and 76,764 pairs of SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat) primers were developed using the radish Rs1.0 reference genome. A total of 44,176 markers (23,816 pairs of IP and 20,360 pairs of SSR markers) were predicted to be radish genome specific-single-locus (SSL) markers through electronic PCR analysis among four R. sativus, one B. napus, one B. rapa, one B. juncea, and one B. juncea reference genome. Among them, 626 randomly synthesized SSL markers (478 SSL IP markers and 148 SSL SSR markers) were used to amplify the genome of 24 radish samples (R. sativus), 18 rape (B. napus), 2 Chinese cabbage (B. rapa), 2 kale (B. oleracea), and 2 mustard (B. juncea) samples, respectively. Then, 333 SSL markers of the radish genome were identified, which only amplified in the radish genome and not in any Brassica species genome, including 192 IP markers and 141 SSR markers. Furthermore, these validated SSL markers were used to identify alien chromosome fragments in Ogura-CMS restorer line 16C, Ogura-CMS sterile line 81A, and their hybrid-Yunyouza15. In 16C, one marker, Rs1.0025823_intron_3, had an amplification product designated as anchor marker for the alien chromosome fragment of 16C. Afterwards, four novel radish genome-specific IP markers were found to be flanking the anchor marker, and it was determined that the alien chromosome segment in 16C originated from the region 8.4807–11.7798 Mb on radish chromosome R9, and it was approximately 3.2991 Mb in size. These results demonstrate that the AMAC method developed in this study is efficient, convenient, and cost-effective for identifying excellent alien chromosome fragments/genes in distant hybrid progeny, and it can be applied to the molecular marker-assisted breeding and hybrid identification of radish and Brassica crop species.
Multi-Objective Optimization Accelerates the De Novo Design of Antimicrobial Peptide for Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Yang Cheng-Hong , Chen Yi-Ling , Cheung Tin-Ho , Chuang Li-Yeh
Published: December 2024

Humans have long used antibiotics to fight bacteria, but increasing drug resistance has reduced their effectiveness. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative with natural broad-spectrum activity against bacteria and viruses. However, their instability and hemolysis limit their medical use, making the design and improvement of AMPs a key research focus. Designing antimicrobial peptides with multiple desired properties using machine learning is still challenging, especially with limited data. This study utilized a multi-objective optimization method, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II), to enhance the physicochemical properties of peptide sequences and identify those with improved antimicrobial activity. Combining NSGA-II with neural networks, the approach efficiently identified promising AMP candidates and accurately predicted their antibacterial effectiveness. This method significantly advances by optimizing factors like hydrophobicity, instability index, and aliphatic index to improve peptide stability. It offers a more efficient way to address the limitations of AMPs, paving the way for the development of safer and more effective antimicrobial treatments.
Modulating Autophagy in Osteoarthritis: Exploring Emerging Therapeutic Drug Targets
Authors: Andrei Corina , Mihai Dragos Paul , Nitulescu George Mihai , Nitulescu Georgiana , Zanfirescu Anca
Published: December 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and the subsequent inflammation of joint tissues, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Despite advancements in symptomatic treatments, disease-modifying therapies for OA remain limited. This narrative review examines the dual role of autophagy in OA, emphasizing its protective functions during the early stages and its potential to contribute to cartilage degeneration in later stages. By delving into the molecular pathways that regulate autophagy, this review highlights its intricate interplay with oxidative stress and inflammation, key drivers of OA progression. Emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating autophagy are explored, including pharmacological agents such as AMP kinase activators, and microRNA-based therapies. Preclinical studies reveal encouraging results, demonstrating that enhancing autophagy can reduce inflammation and decelerate cartilage degradation. However, the therapeutic benefits of autophagy modulation depend on precise, stage-specific approaches. Excessive or dysregulated autophagy in advanced OA may lead to chondrocyte apoptosis, exacerbating joint damage. This review underscores the promise of autophagy-based interventions in bridging the gap between experimental research and clinical application. By advancing our understanding of autophagy’s role in OA, these findings pave the way for innovative and effective therapies. Nonetheless, further research is essential to optimize these strategies, address potential off-target effects, and develop safe, targeted treatments that improve outcomes for OA patients.
Novel Dithiocarbamic Flavanones with Antioxidant Properties—A Structure–Activity Relationship Study
Authors: Birsa Mihail Lucian , Sarbu Laura Gabriela
Published: December 2024

The antioxidant properties of some 3-dithiocarbamic flavanones were investigated. Based on a previous study, we selected three frameworks that proved to be the most active ones. By varying the nature of the substituent at the para-position of flavanone ring B, a structure–activity relationship study on radical scavenging activities was performed. The influence of these substituents (H, F, Cl, Br and I) was evaluated in relation to DPPH, ABTS and FRAP. The results indicated that the presence of the halogen substituent induced better antioxidant properties than ascorbic acid and BHT. The radical scavenging activities were found to decrease in the following order: F > Cl > Br > I > H. This is correlated with the decrease in electronegativity and withdrawing inductive effect of these substituents, which make the C(2)-H bond of the benzopyran ring prone to hydrogen radical transfer.
Yeast Glucan Remodeling Protein Bgl2p: Amyloid Properties and the Mode of Attachment in Cell Wall
Authors: Motorin Nikita A. , Makarov Gennady I. , Rekstina Valentina V. , Evtushenko Evgeniy G. , Sabirzyanov Fanis A. , Ziganshin Rustam H. , Shaytan Alexey K. , Kalebina Tatyana S.
Published: December 2024

Bgl2p is a major, conservative, constitutive glucanosyltransglycosylase of the yeast cell wall (CW) with amyloid amino acid sequences, strongly non-covalently anchored in CW, but is able to leave it. In the environment, Bgl2p can form fibrils and/or participate in biofilm formation. Despite a long study, the question of how Bgl2p is anchored in CW remains unclear. Earlier, it was demonstrated that Bgl2p lost the ability to attach in CW and to fibrillate after the deletion of nine amino acids in its C-terminal region (CTR). Here, we demonstrated that a Bgl2p anchoring is weakened by substitution Glu-233/Ala in the active center. Using AlphaFold and molecular modeling approach, we demonstrated the role of CTR on Bgl2p attachment and supposed the conformational possibilities determined by the presence or absence of an intramolecular disulfide bond, forming by Cys-310, leading to accessibility of amyloid sequence and β-turns localized in CTR of Bgl2p for protein interactions. We hypothesized the mode of Bgl2p attachment in CW. Using atomic force microscopy, we investigated fibrillar structures formed by peptide V187MANAFSYWQ196 and suggested that it can serve as a factor leading to the induction of amyloid formation during interaction of Bgl2p with other proteins and is of medical interest being located close to the surface of the molecule.
Fixation of Expression Divergences by Natural Selection in Arabidopsis Coding Genes
Authors: Qi Cheng , Wei Qiang , Ye Yuting , Liu Jing , Li Guishuang , Liang Jane W. , Huang Haiyan , Wu Guang
Published: December 2024

Functional divergences of coding genes can be caused by divergences in their coding sequences and expression. However, whether and how expression divergences and coding sequence divergences coevolve is not clear. Gene expression divergences in differentiated cells and tissues recapitulate developmental models within a species, while gene expression divergences between analogous cells and tissues resemble traditional phylogenies in different species, suggesting that gene expression divergences are molecular traits that can be used for evolutionary studies. Using transcriptomes and evolutionary proxies to study gene expression divergences among differentiated cells and tissues in Arabidopsis, expression divergences of coding genes are shown to be strongly anti-correlated with phylostrata (gene ages), indicators of selective constraint Ka/Ks (nonsynonymous replacement rate/synonymous substitution rate) and indicators of positive selection (frequency of loci with Ka/Ks > 1), but only weakly or not correlated with indicators of neutral selection (Ks). Our results thus suggest that expression divergences largely coevolve with coding sequence divergences, suggesting that expression divergences of coding genes are selectively fixed by natural selection but not neutral selection, which provides a molecular framework for trait diversification, functional adaptation and speciation. Our findings therefore support that positive selection rather than negative or neutral selection is a major driver for the origin and evolution of Arabidopsis genes, supporting the Darwinian theory at molecular levels.
Investigation of Calcium Phosphate-Based Biopolymer Composite Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Furko Monika , Horváth Zsolt E. , Tolnai Istvan , Balázsi Katalin , Balázsi Csaba
Published: December 2024

We present a novel method for preparing bioactive and biomineralized calcium phosphate (mCP)-loaded biopolymer composite scaffolds with a porous structure. Two types of polymers were investigated as matrices: one natural, cellulose acetate (CA), and one synthetic, polycaprolactone (PCL). Biomineralized calcium phosphate particles were synthesized via wet chemical precipitation, followed by the addition of organic biominerals, such as magnesium gluconate and zinc gluconate, to enhance the bioactivity of the pure CP phase. We compared the morphological and chemical characteristics of the two types of composites and assessed the effect of biomineralization on the particle structure of pure CP. The precipitated CP primarily consisted of nanocrystalline apatite, and the addition of organic trace elements significantly influenced the morphology by reducing particle size. FE-SEM elemental mapping confirmed the successful incorporation of mCP particles into both CA and PCL polymer matrices. Short-term immersion tests revealed that the decomposition rate of both composites is slow, with moderate and gradual ionic dissolution observed via ICP-OES measurements. The weight loss of the PCL-based composite during immersion was minimal, decreasing by only 0.5%, while the CA-based composite initially exhibited a slight weight increase before gradually decreasing over time.
Comparison of the Effects of UV-C Light in the Form of Flash or Continuous Exposure: A Transcriptomic Analysis on Arabidopsis thaliana L.
Authors: Jazayeri Seyed Mehdi , Aarrouf Jawad , Urban Laurent , Lopez-Lauri Félicie
Published: December 2024

Ultraviolet C (UV-C) flash treatment represents a promising method for priming plants. This study compared the effects of 1 s (flash) and 60 s (60 s) UV-C exposures on the transcriptome of Arabidopsis thaliana L. plants. A dose of 200 J m−2 delivered in one second was observed to effectively stimulate plant defenses without causing any adverse effects on plant health. A total of 3054 and 1865 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the flash and 60 s treatments, respectively, in comparison to the control plants. Of these, 1131 were common to both treatments. The flash treatment affected a greater number of transcription factors (415 genes) than the 60 s treatment (254 genes), indicating more pronounced alterations in gene expression. The flash treatment resulted in a significant overexpression of heat shock proteins (HSPs), heat shock factors (HSFs), and their associated genes, which impacted oxidative stress, proteostasis, genome stability, cell survival, and thermotolerance. The majority of mitochondrial genes were found to be upregulated, while photosynthetic genes exhibited a downregulation. These expression patterns coordinate electron transport and crosstalk between the nucleus, chloroplasts, and mitochondria, eliciting an adaptive protective response to UV-C flash. Additionally, the flash treatment resulted in alterations to several genes involved in cell cycle regulation, division, and DNA replication. These included ATP BMMs, BRCA2 s, IQDs, kinesin complex, MCM complex, CYCs, and CDKs, which ultimately led to cell cycle arrest as a temporary preparation for subsequent conditions. The present study demonstrates that a 1 s exposure to UV-C induces distinctive plant responses through coordinated gene expression. The findings suggest that the flash treatment is an innovative method that triggers a unique cellular response, prioritizing repair mechanisms and potentially enhancing plant immunity, resilience, and priming. It can be used as a plant resistance inducer and stimulator.
The Prevalence and the Underlying Mechanisms of Fosfomycin Resistance of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. Among Cattle in Japan
Authors: Hosoi Yuta , Kawanishi Michiko , Harada Saki , Kumakawa Mio , Matsuda Mari , Sekiguchi Hideto
Published: December 2024

To investigate fosfomycin resistance rates in cattle across Japan, we carried out susceptibility tests. To identify the genes contributing to fosfomycin resistance, we performed whole-genome sequencing on the fosfomycin-resistant strains. Escherichia coli were sampled from healthy cattle (n = 292, combined total from 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2022) and diseased cattle (n = 73, from 2021 to 2022). Salmonella spp. were obtained from diseased cattle (n = 74 from 2021 to 2022). These samples originated from different and non-duplicated farms. The MICs to fosfomycin were measured using an agar dilution method with a breakpoint of 256 μg/mL. We conducted whole-genome sequencing with a MiSeq, followed by in silico analysis of the acquired draft genomes. The resistance rates were 0.3% (95% CI [0–1.9%]), 6.8% (95% CI [2.3–15.3%]), and 1.4% (95% CI [0–7.3%]). The FosA3 gene was detected in five out of six fosfomycin-resistant E. coli strains and one Salmonella spp. strain. The fosfomycin-resistant Salmonella spp. strain also has a fosA7 gene. One E. coli strain showed resistance to fosfomycin without having the fosA3 gene, and with the mutations of glpT, uhpT, uhpT and ptsI, and with the existence of efflux pumps. The nationwide scale of resistance rates to fosfomycin in E. coli isolated from healthy and diseased cattle and that of Salmonella spp. from diseased cattle were revealed for the first time, and the resistance rates were low. In addition, genes linked to the mechanism of fosfomycin resistance were identified.
Cell Membrane- and Extracellular Vesicle-Coated Chitosan Methacrylate-Tripolyphosphate Nanoparticles for RNA Delivery
Authors: Liew Wen Jie Melvin , Alkaff Syed Abdullah , Leong Sheng Yuan , Yee Marin Zhen Lin , Hou Han Wei , Czarny Bertrand
Published: December 2024

mRNA-based vaccines against the COVID-19 pandemic have propelled the use of nucleic acids for drug delivery. Conventional lipid-based carriers, such as liposomes and nanolipogels, effectively encapsulate and deliver RNA but are hindered by issues such as premature burst release and immunogenicity. To address these challenges, cell membrane-coated nanoparticles offer a promising alternative. We developed a novel nanoparticle system using chitosan methacrylate-tripolyphosphate (CMATPP), which capitalizes on interactions involving membrane proteins at biointerfaces. Ionic crosslinking between chitosan methacrylate and tripolyphosphate facilitates the formation of nanoparticles amenable to coating with red blood cell (RBC) membranes, extracellular vesicles (EVs), and cell-derived nanovesicles (CDNs). Coating CMATPP nanoparticles with RBC membranes effectively mitigated the initial burst release of encapsulated small interfering RNA (siRNA), sustaining controlled release while preserving membrane proteins. This concept was extended to EVs, where CMATPP nanoparticles and CDNs were incorporated into a microfluidic device and subjected to electroporation to create hybrid CDN-CMATPP nanoparticles. Our findings demonstrate that CMATPP nanoparticles are a robust siRNA delivery system with suppressed burst release and enhanced membrane properties conferred by cell or vesicle membranes. Furthermore, the adaptation of the CDN-CMATPP nanoparticle formation in a microfluidic device suggests its potential for personalized therapies using diverse cell sources and increased throughput via automation. This study underscores the versatility and efficacy of CMATPP nanoparticles in RNA delivery, offering a pathway towards advanced therapeutic strategies that utilize biomimetic principles and microfluidic technologies.
LncSL: A Novel Stacked Ensemble Computing Tool for Subcellular Localization of lncRNA by Amino Acid-Enhanced Features and Two-Stage Automated Selection Strategy
Authors: Zhu Lun , Chen Hong , Yang Sen
Published: December 2024

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a non-coding RNA longer than 200 nucleotides, crucial for functions like cell cycle regulation and gene transcription. Accurate localization prediction from sequence information is vital for understanding lncRNA’s biological roles. Computational methods offer an effective alternative to traditional experimental methods for annotating lncRNA subcellular positions. Existing machine learning-based methods are limited and often overlook regions with coding potential that affect the function of lncRNA. Therefore, we propose a new model called LncSL. For feature encoding, both lncRNA sequences and amino acid sequences from open reading frames (ORFs) are employed. And we selected the most suitable features by CatBoost and integrated them into a new feature set. Additionally, a voting process with seven feature selection algorithms identified the higher contributive features for training our final stacked model. Additionally, an automatic model selection strategy is constructed to find a better performance meta-model for assembling LncSL. This study specifically focuses on predicting the subcellular localization of lncRNA in the nucleus and cytoplasm. On two benchmark datasets called S1 and S2 datasets, LncSL outperformed existing methods by 6.3% to 12.3% in the Matthew’s correlation coefficient on a balanced test dataset. On an unbalanced independent test dataset sourced from S1, LncSL improved by 4.7% to 18.6% in the Matthew’s correlation coefficient, which further demonstrates that LncSL is superior to other compared methods. In all, this study presents an effective method for predicting lncRNA subcellular localization through enhancing sequence information, which is always overlooked by traditional methods, and addressing contributive meta-model selection problems, which can offer new insights for other bioinformatics problems.
Could Selected Adipokines/Cytokines Serve as Markers of Adipose Tissue Dysfunction?
Authors: Ostrowska Lucyna , Smarkusz-Zarzecka Joanna , Zyśk Beata , Orywal Karolina , Mroczko Barbara , Cwalina Urszula
Published: December 2024

Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory adipokines and cytokines increase the risk of developing metabolic disorders and diseases. The aim of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of selected adipokines/cytokines in the blood serum of adults with obesity and normal body weight. The study also evaluated the correlation of these adipokines/cytokines with selected biochemical blood parameters. The study included 46 individuals with first- and second-degree obesity and 35 individuals with normal body weight. The participants underwent nutritional status assessments, biochemical tests, and evaluations of adipokine and cytokine concentrations in blood serum. The study found higher median CRP concentrations in women with obesity than in those with normal weight. This increase was statistically significant. The results also showed significantly higher IL-6 levels in the obesity group compared to the control group in both women and men. Resistin and MMP-2 were significantly different between women with obesity and women with normal body weight. Multiple regression results indicated that higher total fat content was significantly associated with higher serum CRP and IL-6 levels and lower adiponectin levels. Interleukin 6 was the strongest predictor of adipose tissue dysfunction in both women and men. Potential markers in women could also include resistin and MMP-2. The findings suggest that gender significantly influences the regulation of inflammatory factors.
Lack of Vertical Transmission of Grapevine Red Blotch Virus by Spissistilus festinus and Sex-Associated Differences in Horizontal Transmission
Authors: Hoyle Victoria J. , Schultz Mackenzi , McGinnity Schneider Elliot J. , Roy Brandon G. , Fuchs Marc
Published: December 2024

Grapevine red blotch is an emerging disease that threatens vineyard productions in North America. Grapevine red blotch virus (GRBV, species Grablovirus vitis, genus Grablovirus, family Geminiviridae), the causal agent of red blotch disease, is transmitted by Spissistilus festinus (Hemiptera: Membracidae) in a circulative, non-propagative mode. To gain new insight into GRBV-S. festinus interactions, we delved into vertical transmission and documented a lack of transovarial transmission. In addition, we investigated S. festinus sex differences in the horizontal transmission of GRBV by creating small arenas with 30 detached trifoliates of common snap bean, an experimental host of GRBV, and a preferred feeding host of S. festinus. Tracking the movement of viruliferous males, females, or a combination of the two sexes over two weeks in replicated experiments demonstrated that male S. festinus dispersed more than females with specimens of both sexes predominantly grouping together on trifoliates spatially surrounding the trifoliate onto which they were released. These behaviors resulted in a greater rate of GRBV transmission by S. festinus males (17%, 20 of 120) than females (4%, 5 of 120) or mixed-sex cohorts (9%, 17 of 180). In arenas with aviruliferous S. festinus and one (single) or four (hotspot) GRBV-infected trifoliates out of 30 total trifoliates, a higher GRBV transmission rate by males was confirmed in both single infection (50%, 30 of 60) and hotspot infection (83%, 50 of 60) arenas than by females in single infection (35%, 21 of 60) and hotspot infection (67%, 40 of 60) arenas. These findings highlighted sex-associated differences in the transmission of GRBV by S. festinus and a positive correlation between the initial virus prevalence and the rate of transmission. Finally, the secondary spread of GRBV resulted primarily from S. festinus dispersal by walking or jumping. Together, these unique GRBV transmission features support the need to characterize dispersal behaviors of S. festinus in vineyard ecosystems.