bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Combined effect of molybdenum and nitrogen fertilization on nitrogen metabolism and amino acid content in tobacco leaves
Authors: Sun Jingguo , Zhao Youyou , Qin Xiaoming , Hu Zhenlan , Li Jianping , Guo Yali , Sun Guangwei , Chen Zhengguo , Huang Hong , Hu Chengxiao , Sun Xuecheng 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionThis study investigated the combined effects of molybdenum (Mo) and nitrogen (N) fertilization on N metabolism and amino acid content in the leaves of flue-cured tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) during its mature stage through a pot experiment.MethodsDifferent application levels of Mo (0, 0.15, 0.30 mg/kg soil) and N (0.06, 0.24, 0.42 g/kg soil) were set to observe and analyze changes in leaf quality, N, and amino acid content in the tobacco plants.ResultsThe results revealed that the N fertilizer application level exhibited a primary effect on regulating the total nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, soluble protein, and amino acid nitrogen concentrations within tobacco leaves, while the effectiveness of Mo fertilization was influenced by the level of N applied. Specifically, under the conditions of 0.24 g/kg soil N and 0.30 mg/kg soil Mo application, the N content, N accumulation, and dry matter mass of the tobacco plants increased significantly by 110%, 204%, and 48%, respectively. Concurrently, nitrate reductase activity increased by 107-fold, and the nitrate nitrogen content was relatively low, contributing to enhanced tobacco yield and safety. Moreover, this treatment led to a notable (170%) increase in free amino acid nitrogen content, with minimal impact on total amino acids and soluble proteins. Notably, it effectively increased the content of free amino acids beneficial to the sensory quality of tobacco (such as histidine, arginine, aspartic acid, isoleucine, and glutamic acid) without reducing the total amino acid content, while simultaneously reducing other amino acids that might affect quality. Therefore, the combined application of 0.30 mg/kg soil Mo and 0.24 g/kg soil N specifically optimized the amino acid composition in tobacco leaves, positively impacting overall quality and market competitiveness.DiscussionThis study provides a theoretical basis for the rational application of Mo fertilizer in Mo-deficient areas to improve the yield and quality of flue-cured tobacco.
Tensions on the actin cytoskeleton and apical cell junctions in the C. elegans spermatheca are influenced by spermathecal anatomy, ovulation state and activation of myosin
Authors: Sadeghian Fereshteh , Grooms Noa W. F. , Chung Samuel H. , Cram Erin J. 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionCells generate mechanical forces mainly through myosin motor activity on the actin cytoskeleton. In C. elegans, actomyosin stress fibers drive contractility of the smooth muscle-like cells of the spermatheca, a distensible, tube-shaped tissue in the hermaphrodite reproductive system and the site of oocyte fertilization. Stretching of the spermathecal cells by oocyte entry triggers activation of the small GTPase Rho. In this study, we asked how forces are distributed in vivo, and explored how spermathecal tissue responds to alterations in myosin activity.MethodsIn animals expressing GFP labeled actin or apical membrane complexes, we severed these structures using femtosecond laser ablation and quantified retractions. RNA interference was used to deplete key contractility regulators.ResultsWe show that the basal actomyosin fibers are under tension in the occupied spermatheca. Reducing actomyosin contractility by depletion of the phospholipase C-ε/PLC-1 or non-muscle myosin II/NMY-1, leads to distended spermathecae occupied by one or more embryos, but does not alter tension on the basal actomyosin fibers. However, activating myosin through depletion of the Rho GAP SPV-1 increases tension on the actomyosin fibers, consistent with earlier studies showing Rho drives spermathecal contractility. On the inner surface of the spermathecal tube, tension on the apical junctions is decreased by depletion of PLC-1 and NMY-1. Surprisingly, when basal contractility is increased through SPV-1 depletion, the tension on apical junctions also decreases, with the most significant effect on the junctions aligned in perpendicular to the axis of the spermatheca.DiscussionOur results suggest that much of the tension on the basal actin fibers in the occupied spermatheca is due to the presence of the embryo. Additionally, increased tension on the outer basal surface may compress the apical side, leading to lower tensions apically. The three dimensional shape of the spermatheca plays a role in force distribution and contractility during ovulation.
Sustainable synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Azadirachta indica: antimicrobial, antioxidant and in silico analysis for periodontal treatment
Authors: Barik Binapani , Satapathy Bhabani Sankar , Pattnaik Gurudutta , Bhavrao Desai Vijay , Shetty Krishna Prasad 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionThis study explores potential application of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to treat periodontal infection using Azadirachta indica leaf extract. The eco-friendly green synthesis process uses Azadirachta indica as a natural stabilizer and reducer, allowing AgNPs to be formed.MethodsExperimental AgNPs were characterized through transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Zeta potential, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) etc. The antimicrobial, antioxidant potential of AgNPs was tested to identify its efficacy against periodontal infections.Results and discussionAgNPs were found spherical, nanosized (86 nm), with negative surface charge (−26.9 mV). TEM study depicted clear formation of discrete nanosize particles with smooth surface texture. Results showed strong antibacterial and anti-oxidant action of experimental AgNPs, preventing biofilm growth and bacterial viability. A higher binding affinity was observed between Quercetin and the selected protein, which is implicated in bacterial growth and biofilm formation on teeth. The study suggests that Azadirachta indica derived AgNPs could be a safe, efficacious, and eco-friendly alternative in place of conventional therapies to treat periodontal infection. Future in vivo studies are however warranted.
ProcCluster® and procaine hydrochloride inhibit the growth of Aspergillus species and exert antimicrobial properties during coinfection with influenza A viruses and A. fumigatus in vitro
Authors: König Sarah , Schroeder Josefine , Heinekamp Thorsten , Brakhage Axel A. , Löffler Bettina , Engert Beatrice , Ehrhardt Christina 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionInfluenza-associated pulmonary aspergillosis is associated with high mortality rates and limited treatment options. The current standard practice involves treating each pathogen separately. However, the use of antifungal drugs can lead to serious side effects, and the presence of triazole-resistant Aspergillus strains can complicate antifungal therapy. In addition, drug-resistant influenza viruses are becoming an increasing concern in clinics. A drug that affects fungal and viral propagation could overcome these disadvantages. Thus, we conducted a study to examine the antifungal and antiviral properties of ProcCluster® and procaine hydrochloride (HCl), which are prodrugs derived from the local anesthetic procaine.MethodsConidia of different A. fumigatus strains, A. flavus and A. terreus were treated with the test substances in a human cell-free system and antifungal properties were analyzed either by fluorescence microscopy or absorption measurements. Changes in metabolic activity and intracellular Ca2+ distribution during treatment of A. fumigatus with ProcCluster® were observed using fluorescence microscopy. In addition, antifungal and antiviral properties of ProcCluster® and procaine HCl were investigated during in vitro coinfection of lung epithelial cells with A. fumigatus and influenza A viruses (IAV). Analysis was performed by fluorescence microscopy, standard plaque assay and Western blot assay.ResultsBoth substances inhibited the growth of the fungus, even when applied after germination or in the presence of purified IAV particles. ProcCluster® remained effective against triazole-resistant A. fumigatus strains. However, the addition of CaCl2 reversed the antifungal effect, indicating that ProcCluster® inhibited fungal growth by disrupting fungal Ca2+ homeostasis. Furthermore, in vitro studies showed that ProcCluster® and procaine HCl reduced the pathogen load of IAV and A. fumigatus during coinfection. Finally, the combination of ProcCluster® with the antiviral drug favipiravir exhibited increased antipathogenic activity, particularly against IAV replication.DiscussionThis research highlights ProcCluster® and procaine HCl as substances with anti-infective properties against various pathogens.
PMCNA_RS00975 activates NF-κB and ERK1/2 through TLR2 and contributes to the virulence of Pasteurella multocida
Authors: Xu Tenglin , Kou Mingxing , Cao Peili , Liu Benjin , Zheng Yating , Jiang Qian , Liu Jiasen , Kang Hongtao , Yang Mingfa , Guo Dongchun , Qu Liandong 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionPasteurella multocida is a pathogenic bacterium known to cause hemorrhagic septicemia and pneumonia in poultry. Reports have indicated that certain proteins, either directly involved in or regulating iron metabolism, are important virulence factors of P. multocida. Therefore, understanding virulent factors and analyzing the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines can help us elucidate the underlying pathogenesis.MethodsIn this study, the PMCNA_RS00975 protein, a putative encapsuling protein encoded by a gene from a specific prophage island of the pathogenic strain C48-1 of P. multocida, was investigated. To further explore the impact of the PMCNA_RS00975 protein on pathogenicity, a PMCNA_RS00975 gene mutant of P. multocida strain C48-1 was constructed using positive selection technology. Subcellular localization was performed to determine the location of the PMCNA_RS00975 protein within P. multocida. The recombinant protein PMCNA_RS00975 of P. multocida was soluble expressed, purified, and its role in pro-inflammatory cytokines was investigated.ResultsThe mutant exhibited significantly reduced pathogenicity in the mice model. Furthermore, subcellular localization indicated that the PMCNA_RS00975 protein was located at the outer membrane and expressed during infection of P. multocida. Additionally, our experiments revealed that recombinant PMCNA_RS00975 protein promotes the secretion of the IL-6 pro-inflammatory cytokines triggered by the TLR2 receptor via NF-κB and ERK1/2 signaling pathways in the macrophages.DiscussionThis study identified a novel virulence factor in the C48-1 strain, providing a basis for understanding the pathogenesis and directions for the development of attenuated vaccines against P. multocida.
Investigating the causal relationship between human blood metabolites and pulmonary hypertension: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zeng Xingdu , Zhong Bin 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundSeveral recent investigations have posited that distinct metabolites in the bloodstream may be correlated with the pathogenesis of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). Nonetheless, the interrelationship between the pathogenesis of PH and metabolite fluctuations remains incompletely elucidated, and findings may differ across studies.MethodsIn the extant research, data from 486 metabolite-and PH-related genetic variants in human subjects were procured based on Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and Finnish databases. Univariate Mendelian Randomization analyses were deployed to evaluate the causal relationships between them. The utilization of the randomized Inverse Variance weighted(IVW) method served as the primary analytic framework in this Mendelian Randomization (MR) study. Additionally, four alternative computational strategies, encompassing MR-Egger, were employed as auxiliary methods. A myriad of tests, including Cochran's Q Test, MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO, leave-one-out analysis, and linkage disequilibrium score were incorporated to assess the robustness of the study outcomes. Metabolite pathway analysis was also executed to identify potential metabolic pathways.ResultsAfter a series of validations and corrected for False discovery rate (FDR), we found a significant association between 1,5-anhydroglucitol (OR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.39–2.89, P = 0.0002) and PH, and a significant association between pyridoxalate (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.43–0.81, P = 0.0009) and 1-a achidonoylglycerophosphocholine (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.22–2.58, P = 0.0026) had a suggested association with PH. In addition, the vitamin B6 metabolic pathway was also determined to be associated with PH.ConclusionConclusively, we isolated 1,5-anhydroglucitol, 1-arachidonoylglycerophosphocholine, and pyridoxate as causally implicated in PH, thereby proffering substantial theoretical substantiation for the formulation of future PH prevention and screening paradigms.
Sex-specific differences in the association between triglyceride glucose index and carotid plaque in a cardiovascular high-risk population: a cross-sectional study based on a Chinese community-dwelling population
Authors: Lin Weiguo , Xu Mengjie , Zheng Jinbiao , Sun Ruixue , Yan Shaorong , Chen Xiaoshu , Lin Yuzhan 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundTo date, numerous studies have investigated the relationship between the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and carotid plaques, but the impact of gender on this relationship has not been explored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate gender-specific differences in the relationship between the TyG index and carotid plaques in a high cardiovascular risk population in China.MethodsThis cross-sectional study's data were derived from a longitudinal pilot study involving 1,085 high-risk cardiovascular subjects. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between the TyG index and carotid plaques. A generalized additive model combined with a stratified regression model was employed to assess the nonlinear relationship between the TyG index and carotid plaques across different genders. In the nonlinear relation, the inflection point was calculated by a two-piecewise linear regression model.ResultsAfter adjusting for confounders such as age, sex, BMI, SBP, DBP, AST/ALT, TC, LDL-c, HDL-c, creatinine, smoking, and antilipemic medication, the generalized additive model results revealed a nonlinear relationship between the TyG index and carotid plaque formation, with significant differences across genders. In males, the relationship between the TyG index and carotid plaques was S-shaped. The two-piecewise linear regression model identified two inflection points: TyG = 8.39 (P = 0.017) and TyG = 10.2 (P = 0.009).ConclusionThe relationship between the TyG index and the formation of carotid plaques is nonlinear, and there are significant differences in the correlation between males and females.
Case Report: Laboratory detection of a thrombotic tendency in a family with hypodysfibrinogenemia and a novel FGG mutation
Authors: Monard Amaury , Castoldi Elisabetta , De Simone Ilaria , Wichapong Kanin , van Duijl Tirsa , van den Biggelaar Maartje , Spada Stefano , van Doorn William , Hellenbrand Dave , van der Meijden Paola , Swieringa Frauke , Stork Alexander , ten Cate Hugo , Beckers Erik , Heubel-Moenen Floor , Henskens Yvonne 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionHypodysfibrinogenemia is a rare congenital fibrinogen disorder (CFD) which may induce thrombotic and bleeding events. Therefore, patient management needs careful evaluation. Routine coagulation tests are inadequate to predict the clinical phenotype.Clinical findingsA 60-year-old woman with both bleeding and thrombotic complications and her two daughters were referred to our center for genotypic and phenotypic analysis of a CFD.DiagnosisConventional laboratory results led to the diagnosis of hypodysfibrinogenemia in all three subjects. They all carried the same heterozygous c.1124A&gt;G mutation in FGG resulting in p.Tyr375Cys amino acid substitution, which was confirmed by protein variant analysis from plasma. In silico structure analysis predicted possible conformational and functional changes of the fibrinogen molecule. Thrombin generation indicated a hypercoagulable state confirmed by microfluidics that showed enhanced fibrin formation in both daughters, regardless of the coagulation trigger.ConclusionWe report on a family with hypodysfibrinogenemia and a novel FGG heterozygous missense mutation, possibly leading to conformational changes or covalent dimerization. Thrombin generation and particularly microfluidic measurements disclosed a hypercoagulable state, which was not detected with routine coagulation tests, justifying a different patient management.
Elevated non-HDL-C to HDL-C ratio as a marker for NAFLD and liver fibrosis risk: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Xuan Yanyan , Zhu Minghui , Xu Linzhi , Huangfu Shujiao , Li Tongyu , Liu Chunbo , Zhou Dongdong 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundDyslipidemia is a known independent risk factor for Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the relationship between NAFLD and the serum non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio remains unclear. This study examined the association between the non-HDL-C to HDL-C ratio and NAFLD prevalence, including liver steatosis and fibrosis levels in the population.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018, including 4798 participants. Liver ultrasound and Transient Elastography (TE) were used to assess fibrosis and steatosis. Adjusted multivariable regression analyses, subgroup analyses based on BMI and sex, and a generalized additive model were employed to investigate the relationship between the non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratio and NAFLD.ResultsAmong the 4798 participants, 39.27% (n = 1,884) had NAFLD. Significant positive correlations between non-HDL-C/HDL-C and NAFLD risk were found across all models, with sex-stratified analyses indicating higher risk in men. Liver fibrosis was also associated with non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratios. The Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis shows non-HDL-C/HDL-C as a better predictor for NAFLD than non-HDL-C or HDL-C alone.ConclusionElevated non-HDL-C/HDL-C levels are independently associated with increased NAFLD and liver fibrosis risk in the American population, suggesting its utility in predicting NAFLD and related liver fibrosis.
Single-cell and spatial transcriptome characterize coinhibitory cell-cell communications during histological progression of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Luo Judong , Gao Qianman , Wang Meihua , Liu Hui , Zhu Hong 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionLung adenocarcinoma, a prevalent and lethal malignancy globally, is characterized by significant tumor heterogeneity and a complex tumor immune microenvironment during its histologic pattern progression. Understanding the intricate interplay between tumor and immune cells is of paramount importance as it could potentially pave the way for the development of effective therapeutic strategies for lung adenocarcinoma.MethodsIn this study, we run comparative analysis of the single-cell transcriptomic data derived from tumor tissues exhibiting four distinct histologic patterns, lepidic, papillary, acinar and solid, in lung adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, we conducted immunofluorescence assay and spatial transcriptomic sequencing to validated the spatial co-localization of typical co-inhibitory factors.Results and DiscussionOur analysis unveiled several co-inhibitory receptor-ligand interactions, including PD1-PDL1, PVR-TIGIT and TIGIT-NECTIN2, that potentially exert a pivotal role in recruiting immunosuppressive cells such as M2 macrophages and Tregs into LUAD tumor, thereby establishing immunosuppressive microenvironment and inducing T cells to exhaustion state. Furthermore, The expression level of these co-inhibitory factors, such as NECTIN2 and PVR, were strongly correlated with low immune infiltration, unfavorable patient clinical outcomes and limited efficacy of immunotherapy. We believe this study provides valuable insights into the heterogeneity of molecular, cellular interactions leading to immunosuppressive microenvironment during the histological progression of lung adenocarcinoma. The findings could facilitate the development of novel immunotherapy for lung cancer.
Pandemic-induced healthcare shifts: an observational analysis of maternal and neonatal outcomes in adolescent pregnancies
Authors: Grobeisen-Duque Orly , Villavicencio-Carrisoza Oscar , Mora-Vargas Carlos Daniel , Arteaga-Lopez Carolina Penelope , Martinez-Salazar Maria Guadalupe , Rosas-Balan Alejandro , Leon-Juarez Moises , Flores-Herrera Hector , Zaga-Clavellina Veronica , Aguilera-Arreola Ma Guadalupe , Helguera-Repetto Addy Cecilia 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread changes in healthcare delivery, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as pregnant adolescents. These patients faced additional challenges, including developmental and gestational changes, stress from isolation, and altered healthcare access, which may have impacted the incidence and prevalence of maternal and neonatal complications. This study aims to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes in adolescent pregnancies before and during the pandemic, focusing on how shifts in healthcare delivery influenced these outcomes.MethodologyA retrospective cohort study was conducted, including 340 adolescent pregnant patients who received prenatal care at a tertiary care institution. Patients were divided into two groups: pre-pandemic (n = 209) and pandemic (n = 131). Maternal data, including pre-BMI and gestational weight gain (GWG), were collected to evaluate maternal and neonatal outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and odds ratio (OR) calculations.ResultsThe pandemic group showed a statistically significant increase in cesarean deliveries (p = 0.002; OR = 1.99) and cervicovaginitis, particularly caused by Ureaplasma spp. Conversely, the pre-pandemic group had higher rates of psychoactive substance use, maternal urinary tract infections, and neonatal transient tachypnea. In the pandemic group, overweight pre-gestational BMI and cervicovaginitis were more prevalent in patients with adequate GWG, while inadequate GWG was associated with an increased risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). A significant association between pre-gestational overweight/obesity and excessive GWG was also observed (p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic altered both healthcare delivery and maternal and neonatal outcomes in adolescent pregnancies. Changes in healthcare access, isolation, and shifts in medical management during the pandemic resulted in higher cesarean rates and infection rates among pregnant adolescents. These findings underscore the need for adaptable, resilient healthcare systems capable of maintaining comprehensive care even in the face of global crises. Further studies are needed to explore long-term effects on adolescent maternal and neonatal health.