Life | April 2022 - Browse Articles

35 pages, 469 KiB

Open AccessReview

Therapeutic Strategies and Potential Actions of Female Sex Steroid Hormones and Their Receptors in Colon Cancer Based on Preclinical Studies

by Amani A. Mahbub

Life 2022, 12(4), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040605 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2928

Abstract

Several epidemiological studies have reported that the use of female sex steroid hormones could reduce the risk of colon cancer (CRC). This review summarizes the available data related to estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) single and dual treatments in CRC male and female [...] Read more.

Several epidemiological studies have reported that the use of female sex steroid hormones could reduce the risk of colon cancer (CRC). This review summarizes the available data related to estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) single and dual treatments in CRC male and female in vitro and in vivo models, mainly from preclinical studies, alongside their potential molecular mechanisms. Most of the studies showed that E2 exogenous treatment and/or reactivation of its beta receptor (ERβ) significantly inhibited cell proliferation, induced cell cycle arrest, and promoted apoptosis by modulating several molecular pathways. Likewise, the inhibition of ERα receptors produced similar antitumorigenic actions, both in vivo and in vitro, suggesting that E2 could have dual opposing roles in CRC that are dependent on the expression profile of its nuclear receptors. The available studies on P4 are scarce, and the results revealed that in vitro and in vivo treatments with natural and synthetic progesterone were also associated with promising tumoricidal actions. Nevertheless, the combination of E2 with P4 showed enhanced anticancer activities compared with their monotherapy protocols in male–female cell lines and animals. Collectively, the studies suggested that the female sex steroid hormones could provide a novel and effective therapeutic strategy against CRC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering)

16 pages, 20093 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Emergency Cesarean Section Using Machine Learning Methods: Development and External Validation of a Nationwide Multicenter Dataset in Republic of Korea

by Jeong Ha Wie, Se Jin Lee, Sae Kyung Choi, Yun Sung Jo, Han Sung Hwang, Mi Hye Park, Yeon Hee Kim, Jae Eun Shin, Ki Cheol Kil, Su Mi Kim, Bong Suk Choi, Hanul Hong, Hyun-Joo Seol, Hye-Sung Won, Hyun Sun Ko and Sunghun Na

Life 2022, 12(4), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040604 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3682

Abstract

This study was a multicenter retrospective cohort study of term nulliparous women who underwent labor, and was conducted to develop an automated machine learning model for prediction of emergent cesarean section (CS) before onset of labor. Nine machine learning methods of logistic regression, [...] Read more.

This study was a multicenter retrospective cohort study of term nulliparous women who underwent labor, and was conducted to develop an automated machine learning model for prediction of emergent cesarean section (CS) before onset of labor. Nine machine learning methods of logistic regression, random forest, Support Vector Machine (SVM), gradient boosting, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), light gradient boosting machine (LGBM), k-nearest neighbors (KNN), Voting, and Stacking were applied and compared for prediction of emergent CS during active labor. External validation was performed using a nationwide multicenter dataset for Korean fetal growth. A total of 6549 term nulliparous women was included in the analysis, and the emergent CS rate was 16.1%. The C-statistics values for KNN, Voting, XGBoost, Stacking, gradient boosting, random forest, LGBM, logistic regression, and SVM were 0.6, 0.69, 0.64, 0.59, 0.66, 0.68, 0.68, 0.7, and 0.69, respectively. The logistic regression model showed the best predictive performance with an accuracy of 0.78. The machine learning model identified nine significant variables of maternal age, height, weight at pre-pregnancy, pregnancy-associated hypertension, gestational age, and fetal sonographic findings. The C-statistic value for the logistic regression machine learning model in the external validation set (1391 term nulliparous women) was 0.69, with an overall accuracy of 0.68, a specificity of 0.83, and a sensitivity of 0.41. Machine learning algorithms with clinical and sonographic parameters at near term could be useful tools to predict individual risk of emergent CS during active labor in nulliparous women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Machine Learning Techniques Driven Medicine Analysis)

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14 pages, 1354 KiB

Open AccessReview

Degenerative Meniscus in Knee Osteoarthritis: From Pathology to Treatment

by Nobutake Ozeki, Hideyuki Koga and Ichiro Sekiya

Life 2022, 12(4), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040603 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 8768

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease characterized by chronic knee pain and disability in daily living. The lesion can involve the cartilage as well as the synovium, bone, ligaments, and meniscus, indicating a complicated pathology for knee osteoarthritis. The association with [...] Read more.

Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease characterized by chronic knee pain and disability in daily living. The lesion can involve the cartilage as well as the synovium, bone, ligaments, and meniscus, indicating a complicated pathology for knee osteoarthritis. The association with the meniscus has recently attracted much attention. Meniscal tears can initiate and progress knee osteoarthritis, with deleterious effects on the important roles of the meniscus in load distribution, shock absorption, and stability of the knee joint. Degenerative meniscus lesions are commonly observed in elderly people, but they have less impact on the prognosis of osteoarthritis. However, they are often accompanied by meniscal extrusion, which substantially decreases the hoop function of the meniscus and increases the risk of knee osteoarthritis. When surgical treatment is necessary, meniscal tears should be repaired to the greatest extent possible to preserve meniscus function. Long-term studies show better clinical outcomes and less degenerative osteoarthritis changes following meniscal repair than following partial meniscectomy. For meniscal extrusion repair, centralization techniques have been proposed that involve suturing the meniscus-capsule complex to the edge of the tibial plateau. Advancements in orthobiologics, such as platelet-rich plasma or stem cell therapy, have the potential to prevent the initiation or progression of osteoarthritis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Osteoarthritis: How to Manage Joint Degeneration)

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35 pages, 2237 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Genetic Polymorphisms in Glutamate-Cysteine Ligase, a Key Enzyme of Glutathione Biosynthesis, on Ischemic Stroke Risk and Brain Infarct Size

by Alexey Polonikov, Iuliia Bocharova, Iuliia Azarova, Elena Klyosova, Marina Bykanova, Olga Bushueva, Anna Polonikova, Mikhail Churnosov and Maria Solodilova

Life 2022, 12(4), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040602 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3458

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to explore whether polymorphisms in genes encoding the catalytic (GCLC) and modifier (GCLM) subunits of glutamate-cysteine ligase, a rate-limiting enzyme in glutathione synthesis, play a role in the development of ischemic stroke [...] Read more.

The purpose of this pilot study was to explore whether polymorphisms in genes encoding the catalytic (GCLC) and modifier (GCLM) subunits of glutamate-cysteine ligase, a rate-limiting enzyme in glutathione synthesis, play a role in the development of ischemic stroke (IS) and the extent of brain damage. A total of 1288 unrelated Russians, including 600 IS patients and 688 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects, were enrolled for the study. Nine common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the GCLC and GCLM genes were genotyped using the MassArray-4 system. SNP rs2301022 of GCLM was strongly associated with a decreased risk of ischemic stroke regardless of sex and age (OR = 0.39, 95%CI 0.24–0.62, p < 0.0001). Two common haplotypes of GCLM possessed protective effects against ischemic stroke risk (p < 0.01), but exclusively in nonsmoker patients. Infarct size was increased by polymorphisms rs636933 and rs761142 of GCLC. The mbmdr method enabled identifying epistatic interactions of GCLC and GCLM gene polymorphisms with known IS susceptibility genes that, along with environmental risk factors, jointly contribute to the disease risk and brain infarct size. Understanding the impact of genes and environmental factors on glutathione metabolism will allow the development of effective strategies for the treatment of ischemic stroke and disease prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetics and Genomics)

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15 pages, 1040 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cardiac Rehabilitation in Peripheral Artery Disease in a Tertiary Center—Impact on Arterial Stiffness and Functional Status after 6 Months

by Razvan Anghel, Cristina Andreea Adam, Dragos Traian Marius Marcu, Ovidiu Mitu, Mihai Roca, Grigore Tinica and Florin Mitu

Life 2022, 12(4), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040601 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2916

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) plays an essential role in peripheral artery disease (PAD), leading to improved functional status, increased quality of life, and reduced arterial stiffness. We aimed to assess factors associated with clinical improvement 6 months after enrolment in a [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) plays an essential role in peripheral artery disease (PAD), leading to improved functional status, increased quality of life, and reduced arterial stiffness. We aimed to assess factors associated with clinical improvement 6 months after enrolment in a rehabilitation program at an academic medical center in north-eastern Europe. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study on 97 patients with PAD admitted to a single tertiary referral center. At the 6-months follow-up, 75 patients (77.3%) showed improved clinical status. We analyzed demographics and clinical and paraclinical parameters in order to explore factors associated with a favorable outcome. Results: Hypertension (p = 0.002), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.002), dyslipidemia (p = 0.045), and obesity (p = 0.564) were associated with no clinical improvement. Smoking cessation (p < 0.001), changing sedentary lifestyle (p = 0.032), and improvement of lipid and carbohydrate profile as well as functional status parameters and ambulatory arterial stiffness index (p = 0.008) were factors associated with clinical improvement at the 6-months follow-up. Conclusions: PAD patients require an integrative, multidisciplinary management to maintain functional status and increase quality of life. Improving carbohydrate and lipid profile, adopting a healthy lifestyle, quitting smoking and increasing exercise capacity are predictors for clinical improvement 6 months after enrolment in a CR program. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)

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9 pages, 567 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in the Mean of Medical Visits Due to Psychiatric Disease in Korean Children and Adolescents before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by So Young Kim, Na-Eun Lee, Dae Myoung Yoo, Ji Hee Kim, Mi Jung Kwon, Joo-Hee Kim, Woo Jin Bang and Hyo Geun Choi

Life 2022, 12(4), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040600 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2205

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has been suggested to have adverse impacts on psychiatric disorders. This study aimed to investigate the changes in medical visits due to a wide range of psychiatric disorders in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The medical visits of all Korean [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been suggested to have adverse impacts on psychiatric disorders. This study aimed to investigate the changes in medical visits due to a wide range of psychiatric disorders in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The medical visits of all Korean children and adolescents (0–19 years old) due to the 12 following psychiatric disorders were investigated: autism; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); depressive disorder; bipolar disorder; primary insomnia; schizophrenia; panic disorder; hypochondriasis; posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); anxiety disorder; anorexia nervosa; and adephagia. The mean medical visits before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were compared. The mean number of clinical visits due to autism, ADHD, depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, hypochondriasis, PTSD, anxiety disorder, and anorexia nervosa was higher during the COVID-19 pandemic than before the COVID-19 pandemic (all p < 0.05). The higher mean number of medical visits due to psychiatric disorders was maintained in age and sex subgroups. The female and adolescent groups demonstrated a higher mean number of medical visits due to psychiatric disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. The medical visits due to many psychiatric disorders were higher during the COVID-19 pandemic than before COVID-19 in children and adolescents in Korea. Women and adolescents were more susceptible to psychiatric disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 and Long-COVID-19: Pathogenesis, Clinical Manifestation, and Therapeutic Options)

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10 pages, 2052 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transmastoid Ultrasound Detection of Middle Ear Effusion and Its Association with Clinical Audiometric Tests

by Chin-Kuo Chen, Yung-Liang Wan, Li-Chun Hsieh and Po-Hsiang Tsui

Life 2022, 12(4), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040599 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1916

Abstract

Medical history taking, otoscopy, tympanometry, and audiometry are clinical methods to diagnose middle ear effusion (MEE); however, these procedures are experience-dependent and result in misdiagnosis under unfavorable conditions of the external auditory canal in non-cooperative young children. This study aimed to explore the [...] Read more.

Medical history taking, otoscopy, tympanometry, and audiometry are clinical methods to diagnose middle ear effusion (MEE); however, these procedures are experience-dependent and result in misdiagnosis under unfavorable conditions of the external auditory canal in non-cooperative young children. This study aimed to explore the use of transmastoid ultrasound combined with the Nakagami parameter analysis to detect MEE in children aged 3–5 years and to compare the proposed method with clinical evaluation methods. A total of forty subjects were enrolled; for each subject, a single-element ultrasound transducer of 2.25 MHz was used to measure backscattered signals returned from the mastoid for estimating the Nakagami parameter, which is a measure of the echo amplitude distribution. Tympanogram and hearing loss were also measured for comparisons. The results showed that the Nakagami parameter in the patients with MEE was significantly larger than that of the normal group (p < 0.05). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for using the Nakagami parameter to detect MEE was 0.90, and the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 82.5%, 97.5%, and 79.6%, respectively. The Nakagami parameter for tympanogram types B/C was higher than that for tympanogram type A (p < 0.05); it was also higher in the subjects with hearing loss (p < 0.05). Quantitative transmastoid ultrasound based on the Nakagami parameter analysis has the potential to detect MEE and evaluate hearing loss. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultrasound Imaging in Medicine Research)

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13 pages, 988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Enterococcus faecium AL41 on the Acute Phase Proteins and Selected Mucosal Immune Molecules in Broiler Chickens

by Viera Karaffová, Csilla Tóthová, Renáta Szabóová, Viera Revajová, Andrea Lauková, Zuzana Ševčíková, Róbert Herich, Rudolf Žitňan, Martin Levkut, Mikuláš Levkut, Zita Faixová and Oskar Nagy

Life 2022, 12(4), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040598 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2095

Abstract

Probiotic bacteria, including the Enterococcus faecium strain, can improve intestinal mucosal health by several mechanisms, including modulation of the immune response, as well as by improving the protective function of the epithelial barrier. In this study, we tested the effect of Enterococcus faecium [...] Read more.

Probiotic bacteria, including the Enterococcus faecium strain, can improve intestinal mucosal health by several mechanisms, including modulation of the immune response, as well as by improving the protective function of the epithelial barrier. In this study, we tested the effect of Enterococcus faecium AL41 on the acute phase proteins response (blood), gene expression of selected molecules of mucosal immunity (immunoglobulin A, mucin-2, insulin-like growth factor 2) and mucus production (all parts of the small intestine) in broilers. Eighty broiler chicks were divided into two groups: a control and E. faecium AL41 (birds were inoculated with AL41 for 7 days) group. The whole experiment lasted 11 days. Our results revealed that the administration of E. faecium AL41 had no substantial effect on the concentrations of acute phase proteins, but we recorded a significant increase in β- and γ-globulin fractions at the end of the experiment, which may indicate an improvement in the immune status. A significant prolonged stimulatory effect of E. faecium AL41 on the relative expression of molecules (immunoglobulin A, mucin-2) as well as on the dynamic of mucus production in the chicken intestine was observed. In addition, AL41 significantly reduced the total number of enterococci in the cecum and faeces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Substances in Nutrition and Health of Animals)

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14 pages, 6196 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stabilization of G-Quadruplex-Duplex Hybrid Structures Induced by Minor Groove-Binding Drugs

by Lily Scott and Tigran V. Chalikian

Life 2022, 12(4), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040597 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2536

Abstract

Once it had been realized that G-quadruplexes exist in the cell and are involved in regulation of genomic processes, the quest for ligands recognizing these noncanonical structures was underway. Many organic compounds that tightly associate with G-quadruplexes have been identified. However, the specificity [...] Read more.

Once it had been realized that G-quadruplexes exist in the cell and are involved in regulation of genomic processes, the quest for ligands recognizing these noncanonical structures was underway. Many organic compounds that tightly associate with G-quadruplexes have been identified. However, the specificity of G-quadruplex-binding ligands towards individual structures remains problematic, as the common recognition element of these ligands is the G-tetrad. In this paper, we focus on G-quadruplex-duplex hybrids (QDH) containing a hairpin duplex incorporated as a stem-loop into the G-quadruplex core. The presence of a stem-loop renders QDH amenable to sequence-specific recognition by duplex-binding drugs. Should the thermodynamic crosstalk between the stem-loop and the tetraplex core be sufficiently strong, the drug binding to the loop would lead to the stabilization of the entire structure. We studied the stabilizing influence of the minor groove-binders netropsin and Hoechst 33258 on a family of QDH structures, as well as a G-quadruplex and a hairpin modeling the G-quadruplex core and the stem-loop of the QDH’s. We found that the binding of either drug results in an enhancement of the thermal stability of all DNA structures, as expressed by increases in the melting temperature, T_M. Analysis of the hierarchical order of increases in T_M revealed that the drug-induced stabilization arises from drug binding to the G-quadruplex domain of a QDH and the stem-loop, if the latter contains an all-AT binding site. This result attests to the thermodynamic crosstalk between the stem-loop and the tetraplex core of a QDH. Given the existing library of minor groove-binding drugs recognizing mixed A·T and G·C DNA sequences, our results point to an untapped avenue for sequence-specific recognition of QDH structures in vitro and, possibly, in vivo; thereby, opening the way for selective stabilization of four-stranded DNA structures at predetermined genomic loci, with implications for the control of genomic events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biophysics of Nucleic Acids Celebrating the 75th Birthday of Professor Kenneth J. Breslauer)

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18 pages, 1024 KiB

Open AccessReview

Pharmacological Strategies and Recent Advancement in Nano-Drug Delivery for Targeting Asthma

by Aftab Ahmad

Life 2022, 12(4), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040596 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4254

Abstract

With a high prevalence globally, asthma is a severe hazard to human health, as well as an economic and social burden. There are now novel therapies available for asthma with the use of nanotechnology. Recent developments in nanoscience and medicine have encouraged the [...] Read more.

With a high prevalence globally, asthma is a severe hazard to human health, as well as an economic and social burden. There are now novel therapies available for asthma with the use of nanotechnology. Recent developments in nanoscience and medicine have encouraged the creation of inhalable nanomedicines that can enhance the efficacy, patient compliance, and life quality for sufferers of asthma. Nanocarriers for asthma therapy, including liposomes, micelles, polymers, dendrimers, and inorganics, are presented in depth in this study as well as the current research status of these nanocarriers. Aerosolized nanomaterial-based drug transport systems are currently being developed, and some examples of these systems, as well as prospective future paths, are discussed. New research subjects include nano-modification of medicines and the development of innovative nano-drugs. Clinical experiments have proven that nanocarriers are both safe and effective. Before nanotherapy can be applied in clinical practice, several obstacles must be addressed. We look at some of the most recent research discoveries in the subject of nanotechnology and asthma therapy in this article. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chronic Airway Disease)

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12 pages, 332 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comorbidities in Patients with Autoimmune Bullous Disorders: Hospital-Based Registry Study

by Verónica Sánchez-García, Lorena Pérez-Alcaraz, Isabel Belinchón-Romero and Jose-Manuel Ramos-Rincón

Life 2022, 12(4), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040595 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3071

Abstract

The incidence of autoimmune bullous disorders has increased over the years, especially in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities, which has stimulated research into their association with other diseases. We performed a retrospective observational study used the Minimum Basic Data Set of hospital discharges [...] Read more.

The incidence of autoimmune bullous disorders has increased over the years, especially in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities, which has stimulated research into their association with other diseases. We performed a retrospective observational study used the Minimum Basic Data Set of hospital discharges to review records of patients admitted to Spanish public hospitals between 2016 and 2019 with a diagnosis of any autoimmune bullous disorder. The objectives were to describe the comorbidity profile and the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of patients with pemphigus and pemphigoid, and analyze the evolution of the incidence of these diseases. The study included 1950 patients with pemphigus and 5424 patients with pemphigoid. Incidence increased from 2016 to 2019. The main comorbidities were hypertension (40.19%) and diabetes mellitus (28.57%). Compared to patients with pemphigoid, those with pemphigus had a higher prevalence of neoplasms, osteoporosis, solid metastases and malignant lymphoma, while the prevalence of hypertension, kidney disease, diabetes, heart failure, dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Parkinson’s disease was higher in the pemphigoid group (p < 0.05). Therefore, since autoimmune bullous disorders are associated with diverse comorbidities and their incidence has risen in recent years, the establishment of strategies to prevent the main comorbidities in these patients is justified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)

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28 pages, 2743 KiB

Open AccessReview

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Their Biosynthesis: Overview

by Hareb Al Jabri, Muhammad Hamzah Saleem, Muhammad Rizwan, Iqbal Hussain, Kamal Usman and Mohammed Alsafran

Life 2022, 12(4), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040594 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 86 | Viewed by 8150

Abstract

Zinc (Zn) is plant micronutrient, which is involved in many physiological functions, and an inadequate supply will reduce crop yields. Its deficiency is the widest spread micronutrient deficiency problem; almost all crops and calcareous, sandy soils, as well as peat soils and soils [...] Read more.

Zinc (Zn) is plant micronutrient, which is involved in many physiological functions, and an inadequate supply will reduce crop yields. Its deficiency is the widest spread micronutrient deficiency problem; almost all crops and calcareous, sandy soils, as well as peat soils and soils with high phosphorus and silicon content are expected to be deficient. In addition, Zn is essential for growth in animals, human beings, and plants; it is vital to crop nutrition as it is required in various enzymatic reactions, metabolic processes, and oxidation reduction reactions. Finally, there is a lot of attention on the Zn nanoparticles (NPs) due to our understanding of different forms of Zn, as well as its uptake and integration in the plants, which could be the primary step toward the larger use of NPs of Zn in agriculture. Nanotechnology application in agriculture has been increasing over recent years and constitutes a valuable tool in reaching the goal of sustainable food production worldwide. A wide array of nanomaterials has been used to develop strategies of delivery of bioactive compounds aimed at boosting the production and protection of crops. ZnO-NPs, a multifunctional material with distinct properties and their doped counterparts, were widely being studied in different fields of science. However, its application in environmental waste treatment and many other managements, such as remediation, is starting to gain attention due to its low cost and high productivity. Nano-agrochemicals are a combination of nanotechnology with agrochemicals that have resulted in nano-fertilizers, nano-herbicides, nano-fungicides, nano-pesticides, and nano-insecticides being developed. They have anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and optical capabilities. Green approaches using plants, fungi, bacteria, and algae have been implemented due to the high rate of harmful chemicals and severe situations used in the manufacturing of the NPs. This review summarizes the data on Zn interaction with plants and contributes towards the knowledge of Zn NPs and its impact on plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivation and Regulation of Abiotic Stress for Field Crops)

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11 pages, 1436 KiB

Open AccessArticle

End-Systolic Eccentricity Index Obtained by Enhanced Computed Tomography Is a Predictor of Pulmonary Vascular Resistance in Patients with Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension

by Yoshinori Tsutsumi, Shiro Adachi, Yoshihisa Nakano, Shingo Iwano, Shinji Abe, Katsuhiko Kato and Shinji Naganawa

Life 2022, 12(4), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040593 - 17 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2049

Abstract

The usefulness of the parameters of biventricular function simultaneously measured using enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) pulmonary angiography in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) has not been clarified. This study aimed to verify the correlation between left and right ventricular (RV) [...] Read more.

The usefulness of the parameters of biventricular function simultaneously measured using enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) pulmonary angiography in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) has not been clarified. This study aimed to verify the correlation between left and right ventricular (RV) parameters and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). Patients who underwent enhanced MDCT before diagnostic right heart catheterization at Nagoya University Hospital between October 2014 and April 2021 were enrolled. The correlation of biventricular function and volume parameters with PVR was assessed. Eighty patients were retrospectively analyzed. Patients’ mean age was 65 ± 13 years, mean PVR was 9.1 (range, 6.1–11.3) Wood units, and mean end-systolic eccentricity index (esEI) was 1.76 ± 0.50. RV end-systolic volume (ESV) (p = 0.007), RV cardiac output (CO) (p < 0.001), RV ejection fraction (p < 0.001), LV end-diastolic volume (EDV) (p < 0.001), left ventricular (LV) ESV (p = 0.006), LVCO (p < 0.001), end-diastolic EI (p < 0.001), and esEI (p < 0.001) were significantly correlated with PVR. The LVEDV (p = 0.001) and esEI (p < 0.009) were independent predictors of PVR. Systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) (p < 0.001), diastolic PAP (p < 0.001), mean PAP (p < 0.001), right atrial pressure (p < 0.023), and PVR (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the high esEI group than in the low esEI group. The esEI was a simple predictor of CTEPH severity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pulmonary Hypertension: From Bench to Bedside)

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10 pages, 615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Oligopeptides in Solanum lycopersicum Xylem Exudates

by Satoru Okamoto, Azusa Kawasaki and Yumiko Makino

Life 2022, 12(4), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040592 - 16 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2376

Abstract

The xylem is the main pathway for the transport of water and molecules from roots to shoots. To date, it has been reported that secreted oligopeptides mediate root-to-shoot signaling, and some long-distance mobile oligopeptides have been detected in xylem exudates. However, the conservation [...] Read more.

The xylem is the main pathway for the transport of water and molecules from roots to shoots. To date, it has been reported that secreted oligopeptides mediate root-to-shoot signaling, and some long-distance mobile oligopeptides have been detected in xylem exudates. However, the conservation of a number of oligopeptides and the overall features of peptide fragments contained in xylem exudates are poorly understood. Here, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of small proteins and peptides in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) xylem exudates and characterized the identified peptide fragments. We found that putative secreted proteins were enriched in xylem exudates compared with all proteins in the tomato protein database. We identified seven oligopeptides that showed common features of bioactive oligopeptides, including homologs of CLV3/ESR-related (CLE), C-TERMINALLY ENCODED PEPTIDE (CEP), and CASPARIAN STRIP INTEGRITY FACTOR (CIF) peptides. Furthermore, five of the identified oligopeptides were homologs of the soybean xylem exudate-associated oligopeptides that we previously reported. Our results suggest that oligopeptides in xylem exudates are conserved across plant species and provide insights into not only root-to-shoot signaling but also the maintenance of the xylem conduit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection State of the Art in Plant Science)

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28 pages, 1329 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Flavonoid on the Brain: Quercetin as a Potential Therapeutic Agent in Central Nervous System Disorders

by Dagmara Wróbel-Biedrawa, Karolina Grabowska, Agnieszka Galanty, Danuta Sobolewska and Irma Podolak

Life 2022, 12(4), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040591 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 10489

Abstract

Quercetin is one of the most common, naturally occurring flavonoids, structurally classified to the flavonol subfamily. This compound, found in many edible and medicinal plants either as a free or glycosidated form, has been scientifically exploited for many years, and one could hardly [...] Read more.

Quercetin is one of the most common, naturally occurring flavonoids, structurally classified to the flavonol subfamily. This compound, found in many edible and medicinal plants either as a free or glycosidated form, has been scientifically exploited for many years, and one could hardly expect it could be a hero of some additional story. Commonly recognized as an anti-inflammatory agent, quercetin not only limits capillary vessel permeability by inhibiting hyaluronidase but also blocks cyclooxygenases and lipoxygenases. As a typical flavonoid, it is also known for its antioxidant effect, which was confirmed by many in vitro and in vivo studies. Throughout the years, numerous other activities were reported for quercetin, including antidiabetic, anti-proliferative, or anti-viral. Of note, recent data have revealed its potential role as a therapeutic agent for several central nervous system disorders. This review provides an overview of available experimental data on quercetin and its complexes with respect to central nervous system diseases, with a main focus on some aspects that were not discussed previously, such as anti-anxiolytic effects, anti-Huntington’s disease activity, or therapeutic potential in brain cancer. Moreover, quercetin’s protective role in some of these diseases is discussed, especially as an anti-neuroinflammatory agent. Bearing in mind the poor bioavailability of this compound, possible options that would enhance its delivery to the site of action are also presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quercetin and Its Complexes for Medicinal Applications)

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9 pages, 1572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Genotypic and Environmental Factors on Tobacco Leaves Based on Metabolomics

by Bo Fu, Junyang Liang, Mengmeng Zhang, Mingqin Zhao, Xiaoming Ji and Jing Wang

Life 2022, 12(4), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040590 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2135

Abstract

Environmental factors affect plant metabolites, different climates, cultivation conditions, and biotic stresses and genotypes strongly affect their chemical composition and contents. Our aim is to examine the environmental and genetic interaction effects on tobacco metabolite composition. UPLC-QTOF MS/MS coupled with multivariate data analyses [...] Read more.

Environmental factors affect plant metabolites, different climates, cultivation conditions, and biotic stresses and genotypes strongly affect their chemical composition and contents. Our aim is to examine the environmental and genetic interaction effects on tobacco metabolite composition. UPLC-QTOF MS/MS coupled with multivariate data analyses were applied for the metabolomics analysis of three tobacco cultivars from different planting regions in China. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that environmental factors have a greater effect on tobacco metabolism compared to genotypes. Twelve biomarkers were screened by orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA). Univariate analysis indicated that Malate, conjugated chlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, quercetin 3-rutinoside-7-glucoside, and unknown compound 5 were only influenced by environmental factors (independent of genotype). Quinate, neochlorogenic acid, and ouabagenin, taxezopidine K1, taxezopidine K2, and taxezopidine K3 in tobacco were influenced by the interaction of environmental factors and the genotype. Our results suggest that metabolomics based on UPLC-QTOF MS/MS could be used to analyze the ecological functions of biomarker metabolites and understand the mechanisms of plant adaption to the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection State of the Art in Plant Science)

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11 pages, 5317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Euphorbia hirta Leaf Ethanol Extract Suppresses TNF-α/IFN-γ-Induced Inflammatory Response via Down-Regulating JNK or STAT1/3 Pathways in Human Keratinocytes

by Tae-Young Gil, Sung-Chul Kang, Bo-Ram Jin and Hyo-Jin An

Life 2022, 12(4), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040589 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3066

Abstract

Skin inflammation may cause allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. Euphorbia hirta (E. hirta) is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family and is well-known for its anti-asthma effects. E. hirta has traditionally been used to treat respiratory [...] Read more.

Skin inflammation may cause allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. Euphorbia hirta (E. hirta) is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family and is well-known for its anti-asthma effects. E. hirta has traditionally been used to treat respiratory ailments, dysentery, jaundice, and digestive problems. However, its effects on skin inflammation remain unclear. Here, we determined the effects of 70% ethanol extract of E. hirta leaves (ELE) in vitro using human keratinocyte HaCaT cells, which constitute most epidermal skin cells. We determined the inhibitory effects of ELE on the inflammation caused by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α/interferon (IFN)-γ in keratinocytes using ELISA, immunoblotting, and qRT-PCR assay. ELE was found to reduce the production and mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α or interleukin-6 and the expression of various proteins, including signal transducers, activators of transcription 1/3, and mitogen-activated protein kinase. Expression levels of these proteins were found to be upregulated in the TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated condition and downregulated by ELE treatment. These results indicate that ELE protects HaCaT cells against TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced skin inflammation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art in STAT Protein)

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35 pages, 13341 KiB

Open AccessReview

Photoacoustic Imaging in Biomedicine and Life Sciences

by Alexey Neprokin, Christian Broadway, Teemu Myllylä, Alexander Bykov and Igor Meglinski

Life 2022, 12(4), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040588 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5985

Abstract

Photo-acoustic imaging, also known as opto-acoustic imaging, has become a widely popular modality for biomedical applications. This hybrid technique possesses the advantages of high optical contrast and high ultrasonic resolution. Due to the distinct optical absorption properties of tissue compartments and main chromophores, [...] Read more.

Photo-acoustic imaging, also known as opto-acoustic imaging, has become a widely popular modality for biomedical applications. This hybrid technique possesses the advantages of high optical contrast and high ultrasonic resolution. Due to the distinct optical absorption properties of tissue compartments and main chromophores, photo-acoustics is able to non-invasively observe structural and functional variations within biological tissues including oxygenation and deoxygenation, blood vessels and spatial melanin distribution. The detection of acoustic waves produced by a pulsed laser source yields a high scaling range, from organ level photo-acoustic tomography to sub-cellular or even molecular imaging. This review discusses significant novel technical solutions utilising photo-acoustics and their applications in the fields of biomedicine and life sciences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Radiobiology and Nuclear Medicine)

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15 pages, 6323 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Suppression of Pepper Root Rot and Wilt Diseases Caused by Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum

by Mohamed Kamal El-kazzaz, Kamal Elsayed Ghoneim, Mohamed Khaled Mohamed Agha, Asmaa Helmy, Said I. Behiry, Ahmed Abdelkhalek, Muhammad Hamzah Saleem, Abdulaziz A. Al-Askar, Amr A. Arishi and Mohsen Mohamed Elsharkawy

Life 2022, 12(4), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040587 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4171

Abstract

Pepper is vulnerable to soil-borne fungal pathogens such as Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum. The potential of beneficial rhizosphere microorganisms to control R. solani and F. oxysporum f.sp. capsici was evaluated in pepper plants. Paenibacillus polymyxa and Trichoderma longibrachiatum were isolated from [...] Read more.

Pepper is vulnerable to soil-borne fungal pathogens such as Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum. The potential of beneficial rhizosphere microorganisms to control R. solani and F. oxysporum f.sp. capsici was evaluated in pepper plants. Paenibacillus polymyxa and Trichoderma longibrachiatum were isolated from rhizospheric soil samples of healthy pepper plants. In vitro, both isolates caused clear reductions in the radial growth of root rot and wilt pathogens. Scanning electron microscopy displayed lysis and abnormal shape of the pathogens in dual cultures with P. polymyxa and T. longibrachiatum. The incidence and severity of root rot and wilt diseases were significantly reduced in pepper plants treated with the growth-promoting fungi (PGPF isolates; Fusarium equiseti GF19-1, Fusarium equiseti GF18-3, and Phoma sp. GS8-3), P. polymyxa, or T. longibrachiatum in comparison to the control. Moreover, the induction treatments led to increased pepper growth compared with their control. The defense related gene (CaPR4) expression was shown to be significantly higher in the treated plants than in the control plants. In conclusion, the antagonistic isolates (P. polymyxa and T. longibrachiatum) and PGPF isolates have a clear impact on the prevention of root rot and wilt diseases in pepper plants incited by R. solani and F. oxysporum f.sp. capsici. The expression of the CaPR4 gene added to the evidence that PGPF isolates generate systemic resistance to pathogen infections. Full article

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12 pages, 874 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Spotlight on the Role of Radiomics and Machine-Learning Applications in the Management of Intracranial Meningiomas: A New Perspective in Neuro-Oncology: A Review

by Lara Brunasso, Gianluca Ferini, Lapo Bonosi, Roberta Costanzo, Sofia Musso, Umberto E. Benigno, Rosa M. Gerardi, Giuseppe R. Giammalva, Federica Paolini, Giuseppe E. Umana, Francesca Graziano, Gianluca Scalia, Carmelo L. Sturiale, Rina Di Bonaventura, Domenico G. Iacopino and Rosario Maugeri

Life 2022, 12(4), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040586 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3200

Abstract

Background: In recent decades, the application of machine learning technologies to medical imaging has opened up new perspectives in neuro-oncology, in the so-called radiomics field. Radiomics offer new insight into glioma, aiding in clinical decision-making and patients’ prognosis evaluation. Although meningiomas represent [...] Read more.

Background: In recent decades, the application of machine learning technologies to medical imaging has opened up new perspectives in neuro-oncology, in the so-called radiomics field. Radiomics offer new insight into glioma, aiding in clinical decision-making and patients’ prognosis evaluation. Although meningiomas represent the most common primary CNS tumor and the majority of them are benign and slow-growing tumors, a minor part of them show a more aggressive behavior with an increased proliferation rate and a tendency to recur. Therefore, their treatment may represent a challenge. Methods: According to PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review was performed. We included selected articles (meta-analysis, review, retrospective study, and case–control study) concerning the application of radiomics method in the preoperative diagnostic and prognostic algorithm, and planning for intracranial meningiomas. We also analyzed the contribution of radiomics in differentiating meningiomas from other CNS tumors with similar radiological features. Results: In the first research stage, 273 papers were identified. After a careful screening according to inclusion/exclusion criteria, 39 articles were included in this systematic review. Conclusions: Several preoperative features have been identified to increase preoperative intracranial meningioma assessment for guiding decision-making processes. The development of valid and reliable non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic modalities could have a significant clinical impact on meningioma treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Career Stars in Physiology and Pathology)

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19 pages, 3331 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kinetic, Isotherm and Thermodynamic Aspects of Zn²⁺ Biosorption by Spirulina platensis: Optimization of Process Variables by Response Surface Methodology

by Nada K. Alharbi, Mayasar I. Al-Zaban, Fawziah M. Albarakaty, Sayed F. Abdelwahab, Sedky H. A. Hassan and Mustafa A. Fawzy

Life 2022, 12(4), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040585 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2636

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of Spirulina platensis for removing Zn²⁺ ions from the aqueous solutions. The optimized conditions of 4.48 g/L algal dose, pH of 6.62 and initial zinc concentration of 29.72 mg/L obtained by response [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of Spirulina platensis for removing Zn²⁺ ions from the aqueous solutions. The optimized conditions of 4.48 g/L algal dose, pH of 6.62 and initial zinc concentration of 29.72 mg/L obtained by response surface methodology were employed for Zn²⁺ biosorption by S. platensis and up to 97.90% Zn²⁺ was removed, showing that there is a favorable harmony between the experimental data and model predictions. Different kinetic and equilibrium models were used to characterize the biosorption manner of Spirulina as a biosorbent. The kinetic manner of Zn²⁺ biosorption was well characterized by the pseudo-second-order, implying that the adsorption process is chemical in nature. The Langmuir and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm models were best fit to the equilibrium data. The maximum adsorption capacity of the Langmuir monolayer was 50.7 mg/g. Furthermore, the thermodynamic analysis revealed that Zn²⁺ biosorption was endothermic, spontaneous and feasible. As a result of biosorption process, FTIR, SEM, and EDX investigations indicated noticeable alterations in the algal biomass’s properties. Therefore, the dried Spirulina biomass has been shown to be cost-effective and efficient for removing the heavy metals, particularly zinc ions from wastewater, and the method is practicable, and environmentally acceptable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Environmental Microbiology)

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9 pages, 541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thyroxine and Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone in Own Mother’s Milk, Donor Milk, and Infant Formula

by Réka A. Vass, Gabriella Kiss, Edward F. Bell, Attila Miseta, József Bódis, Simone Funke, Szilvia Bokor, Dénes Molnár, Balázs Kósa, Anna A. Kiss, Timea Takács, Flóra Dombai and Tibor Ertl

Life 2022, 12(4), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040584 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3674

Abstract

Breastfeeding is widely supported in clinical and home practices, and it is known that different forms of infant feeding differ in hormone content. Thyroid hormones have essential physiological roles. In our study, we examined thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine, and albumin levels in breast [...] Read more.

Breastfeeding is widely supported in clinical and home practices, and it is known that different forms of infant feeding differ in hormone content. Thyroid hormones have essential physiological roles. In our study, we examined thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine, and albumin levels in breast milk produced for term (n = 16) or preterm (n = 15) infants throughout the first 6 months of lactation. Moreover, we analyzed these components in donor human milk and in three different infant formulas. Term and preterm breast milk samples were collected monthly. The two groups had similar levels of TSH (18.4 ± 1.4 vs. 24.7 ± 2.9 nU/L), but term milk contained higher amounts of thyroxine (11,245.5 ± 73.8 vs. 671.6 ± 61.2 nmol/L) during the examination period. The albumin level was significantly higher in preterm breast milk than in term breast milk (328.6 ± 17.1 vs. 264.2 ± 6.8 mg/L). In preterm breast milk we detected downward trends in the levels of TSH (−30.2%) and thyroxine (−29.2%) in the 3rd through 6th month compared to the first 2 months of lactation. Microbiological safety of donor milk was ensured by Holder pasteurization (HoP). From the Breast Milk Collection Center of Pécs, Hungary, we enrolled 44 donor mothers into the study. HoP decreased TSH (−73.8%), thyroxine (−22.4%), and albumin (−20.9%) concentrations. Infant formulas used by the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the University of Pécs were found to not contain the investigated hormones, but their albumin levels were similar to the breast milk samples. The present study shows the lack of thyroid hormones in infant formulas compared to human milk and raises the question of whether formula-fed infants should be supplemented with thyroid hormones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Nutrition during Pregnancy on the Mother and the Newborn)

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19 pages, 1652 KiB

Open AccessReview

Factors That Contribute to hIAPP Amyloidosis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

by Adriana Sevcuka, Kenneth White and Cassandra Terry

Life 2022, 12(4), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040583 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3850

Abstract

Cases of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are increasing at an alarming rate due to the rise in obesity, sedentary lifestyles, glucose-rich diets and other factors. Numerous studies have increasingly illustrated the pivotal role that human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) plays in the [...] Read more.

Cases of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are increasing at an alarming rate due to the rise in obesity, sedentary lifestyles, glucose-rich diets and other factors. Numerous studies have increasingly illustrated the pivotal role that human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) plays in the pathology of T2DM through damage and subsequent loss of pancreatic β-cell mass. HIAPP can misfold and form amyloid fibrils which are preceded by pre-fibrillar oligomers and monomers, all of which have been linked, to a certain extent, to β-cell cytotoxicity through a range of proposed mechanisms. This review provides an up-to-date summary of recent progress in the field, highlighting factors that contribute to hIAPP misfolding and aggregation such as hIAPP protein concentration, cell stress, molecular chaperones, the immune system response and cross-seeding with other amyloidogenic proteins. Understanding the structure of hIAPP and how these factors affect amyloid formation will help us better understand how hIAPP misfolds and aggregates and, importantly, help identify potential therapeutic targets for inhibiting amyloidosis so alternate and more effective treatments for T2DM can be developed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Proteins and Proteomics)

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26 pages, 1511 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Epigenetic Regulation of Chondrocytes and Subchondral Bone in Osteoarthritis

by Hope C. Ball, Andrew L. Alejo, Trinity K. Samson, Amanda M. Alejo and Fayez F. Safadi

Life 2022, 12(4), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040582 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 8426

Abstract

The aim of this review is to provide an updated review of the epigenetic factors involved in the onset and development of osteoarthritis (OA). OA is a prevalent degenerative joint disease characterized by chronic inflammation, ectopic bone formation within the joint, and physical [...] Read more.

The aim of this review is to provide an updated review of the epigenetic factors involved in the onset and development of osteoarthritis (OA). OA is a prevalent degenerative joint disease characterized by chronic inflammation, ectopic bone formation within the joint, and physical and proteolytic cartilage degradation which result in chronic pain and loss of mobility. At present, no disease-modifying therapeutics exist for the prevention or treatment of the disease. Research has identified several OA risk factors including mechanical stressors, physical activity, obesity, traumatic joint injury, genetic predisposition, and age. Recently, there has been increased interest in identifying epigenetic factors involved in the pathogenesis of OA. In this review, we detail several of these epigenetic modifications with known functions in the onset and progression of the disease. We also review current therapeutics targeting aberrant epigenetic regulation as potential options for preventive or therapeutic treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gene/Stem Cell/Molecular Therapy of Craniofacial and Bone Diseases)

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16 pages, 4522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Musculoskeletal Modeling of the Wrist via a Multi Body Simulation

by Jörg Eschweiler, Maximilian Praster, Valentin Quack, Roman Michalik, Frank Hildebrand, Björn Rath and Filippo Migliorini

Life 2022, 12(4), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040581 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3092

Abstract

In this study, three different musculoskeletal modeling approaches were compared to each other. The objective was to show the possibilities in the case of a simple mechanical model of the wrist, using a simple multi-body-simulation (MBS) model, and using a more complex and [...] Read more.

In this study, three different musculoskeletal modeling approaches were compared to each other. The objective was to show the possibilities in the case of a simple mechanical model of the wrist, using a simple multi-body-simulation (MBS) model, and using a more complex and patient-specific adaptable wrist joint MBS model. Musculoskeletal modeling could be a useful alternative, which can be practiced as a non-invasive approach to investigate body motion and internal loads in a wide range of conditions. The goal of this study was the introduction of computer-based modelling of the physiological wrist with (MBS-) models focused on the muscle and joint forces acting on the wrist. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)

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17 pages, 1473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Galvanotactic Migration of Glioblastoma and Brain Metastases Cells

by Falko Lange, Jakob Venus, Daria Shams Esfand Abady, Katrin Porath, Anne Einsle, Tina Sellmann, Valentin Neubert, Gesine Reichart, Michael Linnebacher, Rüdiger Köhling and Timo Kirschstein

Life 2022, 12(4), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040580 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2760

Abstract

Galvanotaxis, the migration along direct current electrical fields, may contribute to the invasion of brain cancer cells in the tumor-surrounding tissue. We hypothesized that pharmacological perturbation of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor and downstream phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway prevent galvanotactic migration. In [...] Read more.

Galvanotaxis, the migration along direct current electrical fields, may contribute to the invasion of brain cancer cells in the tumor-surrounding tissue. We hypothesized that pharmacological perturbation of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor and downstream phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway prevent galvanotactic migration. In our study, patient-derived glioblastoma and brain metastases cells were exposed to direct current electrical field conditions. Velocity and direction of migration were estimated. To determine the effects of EGF receptor antagonist afatinib and AKT inhibitor capivasertib, assays of cell proliferation, apoptosis and immunoblot analyses were performed. Both inhibitors attenuated cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis. We found that most of the glioblastoma cells migrated preferentially in an anodal direction, while brain metastases cells were unaffected by direct current stimulations. Afatinib presented only a mild attenuation of galvanotaxis. In contrast, capivasertib abolished the migration of glioblastoma cells without genetic alterations in the PI3K/AKT pathway, but not in cells harboring PTEN mutation. In these cells, an increase in the activation of ERK1/2 may in part substitute the inhibition of the AKT pathway. Overall, our data demonstrate that glioblastoma cells migrate in the electrical field and the PI3K/AKT pathway was found to be highly involved in galvanotaxis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Cellular Biology of Glioblastoma)

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12 pages, 1303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prognostic Impact and Predictors of New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Heart Failure

by Hyo-In Choi, Sang Eun Lee, Min-Seok Kim, Hae-Young Lee, Hyun-Jai Cho, Jin Oh Choi, Eun-Seok Jeon, Kyung-Kuk Hwang, Shung Chull Chae, Sang Hong Baek, Seok-Min Kang, Dong-Ju Choi, Byung-Su Yoo, Kye Hun Kim, Myeong-Chan Cho, Byung-Hee Oh and Jae-Joong Kim

Life 2022, 12(4), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040579 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2298

Abstract

Background: The prognostic impact and predictors of NOAF in HF patients are not fully elucidated. This study aims to determine whether new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) affects patient outcome and investigate predictors of atrial fibrillation (AF) in acute heart failure (HF) patients using real-world [...] Read more.

Background: The prognostic impact and predictors of NOAF in HF patients are not fully elucidated. This study aims to determine whether new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) affects patient outcome and investigate predictors of atrial fibrillation (AF) in acute heart failure (HF) patients using real-world data. Methods: The factors associated with NOAF in 2894 patients with sinus rhythm (SR) enrolled in the Korean Acute Heart Failure (KorAHF) registry were investigated. Survival was analyzed using AF as a time-dependent covariate. Relevant predictors of NOAF were analyzed using multivariate proportional hazards models. Results: Over 27.4 months, 187 patients developed AF. The median overall survival time was over 48 and 9.9 months for the SR and NOAF groups, respectively. Cox regression analysis with NOAF as a time-dependent covariate showed a higher risk of death among patients with NOAF. Multivariate Cox modeling showed that age, worsening HF, valvular heart disease (VHD), loop diuretics, lower heart rate, larger left atrium (LA) diameter, and elevated creatinine levels were independently associated with NOAF. Risk score indicated the number of independent predictors. The incidence of NOAF was 2.9%, 9.4%, and 21.8% in the low-risk, moderate-risk, and high-risk groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Conditional inference tree analysis identified worsening HF, heart rate, age, LA diameter, and VHD as discriminators. Conclusions: NOAF was associated with decreased survival in acute HF patients with SR. Age, worsening HF, VHD, loop diuretics, lower heart rate, larger LA diameter, and elevated creatinine could independently predict NOAF. This may be useful to risk-stratify HF patients at risk for AF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)

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18 pages, 4002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quercetin Abrogates Oxidative Neurotoxicity Induced by Silver Nanoparticles in Wistar Rats

by Samar S. Elblehi, Eman M. Abd El-Maksoud, Adil Aldhahrani, Saqer S. Alotaibi, Heba I. Ghamry, Salwa A. Elgendy, Mohamed Mohamed Soliman and Mustafa Shukry

Life 2022, 12(4), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040578 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2942

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the oxidative neurotoxicity induced by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and assess the neuroprotective effects of quercetin against this toxicity. Forty adult male rats were divided into four equal groups: control, AgNPs (50 mg/kg intraperitoneally), quercetin (50 mg/kg orally), and [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate the oxidative neurotoxicity induced by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and assess the neuroprotective effects of quercetin against this toxicity. Forty adult male rats were divided into four equal groups: control, AgNPs (50 mg/kg intraperitoneally), quercetin (50 mg/kg orally), and quercetin + AgNPs. After 30 days, blood and brain tissue samples were collected for further studies. AgNP exposure increased lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activities in brain tissue. AgNPs decreased serum acetylcholine esterase activity and γ-aminobutyric acid concentrations. AgNPs upregulated tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and Bax transcript levels. AgNPs reduced the transcripts of claudin-5, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, paraoxonase, nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2 (Nrf2), and Bcl-2. Histopathologically, AgNPs caused various degenerative changes and neuronal necrosis associated with glial cell reactions. AgNPs increased the immunohistochemical staining of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the cerebrum and cerebellum. Oral treatment with quercetin efficiently counteracted the opposing effects of AgNPs on brain tissue via modulation of tight junction proteins, Nrf2, and paraoxonase, and its positive mechanism in modulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and the downregulation of GFAP expression, and the apoptotic pathway. AgNPs also altered the severity of histopathological lesions and modulated GFAP immunostaining in the examined tissue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quercetin and Its Complexes for Medicinal Applications)

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16 pages, 3095 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evidence for a Strong Relationship between the Cytotoxicity and Intracellular Location of β-Amyloid

by Md. Aminul Haque, Md. Selim Hossain, Tahmina Bilkis, Md. Imamul Islam and Il-Seon Park

Life 2022, 12(4), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040577 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2443

Abstract

β-Amyloid (Aβ) is a hallmark peptide of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Herein, we explored the mechanism underlying the cytotoxicity of this peptide. Double treatment with oligomeric 42-amino-acid Aβ (Aβ42) species, which are more cytotoxic than other conformers such as monomers and fibrils, resulted in [...] Read more.

β-Amyloid (Aβ) is a hallmark peptide of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Herein, we explored the mechanism underlying the cytotoxicity of this peptide. Double treatment with oligomeric 42-amino-acid Aβ (Aβ42) species, which are more cytotoxic than other conformers such as monomers and fibrils, resulted in increased cytotoxicity. Under this treatment condition, an increase in intracellular localization of the peptide was observed, which indicated that the peptide administered extracellularly entered the cells. The cell-permeable peptide TAT-tagged Aβ42 (tAβ42), which was newly prepared for the study and found to be highly cell-permeable and soluble, induced Aβ-specific lamin protein cleavage, caspase-3/7-like DEVDase activation, and high cytotoxicity (5–10-fold higher than that induced by the wild-type oligomeric preparations). Oligomeric species enrichment and double treatment were not necessary for enhancing the cytotoxicity and intracellular location of the fusion peptide. Taiwaniaflavone, an inhibitor of the cytotoxicity of wild-type Aβ42 and tAβ42, strongly blocked the internalization of the peptides into the cells. These data imply a strong relationship between the cytotoxicity and intracellular location of the Aβ peptide. Based on these results, we suggest that agents that can reduce the cell permeability of Aβ42 are potential AD therapeutics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Apoptosis and Autophagy)

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20 pages, 14434 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spike-Wave Seizures, NREM Sleep and Micro-Arousals in WAG/Rij Rats with Genetic Predisposition to Absence Epilepsy: Developmental Aspects

by Maxim Zhuravlev, Anastasiya Runnova, Kirill Smirnov and Evgenia Sitnikova

Life 2022, 12(4), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/life12040576 - 12 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2899

Abstract

The current study was done in Wistar Albino Glaxo Rijswijk (WAG/Rij) rats, which are genetically prone to develop spontaneous spike-wave discharges (SWDs) and are widely used as a genetic model of absence epilepsy. Here, we examined functional links between sleep and spike-wave epilepsy [...] Read more.

The current study was done in Wistar Albino Glaxo Rijswijk (WAG/Rij) rats, which are genetically prone to develop spontaneous spike-wave discharges (SWDs) and are widely used as a genetic model of absence epilepsy. Here, we examined functional links between sleep and spike-wave epilepsy in aging WAG/Rij rats using advanced techniques of EEG analysis. SWDs, periods of NREM sleep and micro-arousals were automatically detected in three-channel epidural EEG recorded in freely moving WAG/Rij rats consequently at the age 5, 7 and 9 months. We characterized the developmental profile of spike-wave epilepsy in drug-naïve WAG/Rij rats and defined three epi-phenotypes—severe, mild and minor epilepsy. Age-related changes of SWDs were associated with changes in NREM sleep. Several signs of NREM sleep fragmentation were defined in epileptic WAG/Rij rats. It seems that spike-wave epilepsy per se promotes micro-arousals during NREM sleep. However, subjects with a higher number of micro-arousals (and NREM sleep episodes) at the age of 5 months were characterized by a reduction of SWDs between 5 and 7 months of age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sleep Disorders and Epilepsy)

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