Biology and Life Sciences

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Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Immunology and Microbiology

Theodor-Nicolae Carp

Abstract:

Throughout several centuries, infectious pathogenic agents have been used as models for the ongoing efforts of vaccine development, which saved hundreds of millions of lives from life-threatening infectious diseases worldwide. Nonetheless, there has been a missing gap that various polymorphic microbes have been taking advantage of in their evolutionary pathway: the interferon system, which often prevented the timely activation of second and third-line host immunity, leading to chaotic and mismatching immune responses. The phenomenon of increased incubation period of various infectious diseases may be a result of the increased abilities of such microbial agents to directly and indirectly undergo molecular self-camouflaging, which prevents the activation of Type I and Type III Interferon-encoding genes (INGs) in indirect and direct manners respectively, and cleaves the mRNA molecules encoding such interferon glycoproteins, often causing major delays in the process of autocrine and paracrine signalling of Type I and Type III Interferon glycoproteins, which in turn allows an unrestricted, exponential increase of the microbial load/count, giving rise to a statistical probability that the quality of the delayed immune response will be low and contributory to the processes of pathogenesis and pathophysiology. Some microbial proteins as such also inhibit the translation of Interferon-Stimulated Genes, thereby substantially affecting the signalling rates within the cytokine system and often bringing a negative domino effect upon the activation rates of the adaptive immune system. Apprehending the foundational layer of the current problems in evolutionary microbiology, epidemiology and public health studies is most likely crucial for the course of immunological, pharmaceutical and vaccine-related clinical research. In the current case, it is the complex set of molecular capabilities to suppress Type I and Type III Interferon-based signalling displayed by several polymorphic microbes of public health concern, and it may be that the rates of immunopathogenesis induced by such microbes are directly proportional with such pathogenic abilities of induced interferon suppression. Proportional medical responses could include the development of approaches involving low dosages of human recombinant Type I and Type III Interferon glycoprotein and perhaps also of protollin in the nasopharyngeal cavity, potentially bringing an example of putting a novel concept of a “United Immune System” into practice. Furthermore, similar dosages of such interferons could be administered into human immune cells including plasmacytoid dendritic cells, as well as natural and adaptive lymphocytes, to optimise their immune function and integrity against various environmental hazards. Ultimately, clinical researchers may isolate the pathogenic agents, attenuate them through the process of loss-of-function laboratory research, before performing gene editing to insert Type I, Type III and perhaps also Type IV Interferon-encoding, perhaps as well as Pattern Recognition Receptor (PRR) Agonist-encoding genes that specifically match the PRR targeted by the implicated microbes, into their genomic profile and potentially releasing the genetically-modified pathogens back into the environment transmissible factories of Type I and Type III Interferons, perhaps as well as of specific PRR Agonist proteins, which could include outer membrane proteins from the B serogroup of Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. If the microbial genetic activities implicating evasion of the interferon system are too intense and multilateral, at least some of the microbial genes responsible for such activity could be permanently removed in some exchange with the human genes encoding major elements of the interferon system that would be inserted into the microbial genome afterward. It may be important to mention that the process of clinical weakening of the isolated microbes would be aimed at reducing the activity of microbial genes implicated in pathogenesis and pathophysiology, and perhaps not as much microbial genes involved in reproduction and transmission. Such a change may bring various pathogenic agents into a path of evolutionary self-destruction, as they would start producing and sending signals to the proximal, innate immune system as soon as they enter the first host cells, making their same processes of induced innate immune suppression ineffective, and several dilemmas in microbial evolution could ultimately be tackled as a result, possibly even at least attenuating the phenomenon of acquired antibiotic resistance by various pathogenic bacteria. A clinical approach as such is likely based on the model of increasing the accessibility to insulin-based treatment against Diabetes Mellitus via insulin-encoding gene insertion into the genomes of harmless bacteria prior to their administration into human host organisms, which saved millions of lives worldwide. Processes of shrinkage of any level of limitations to potential efficacy would include the manual utilisation of inhalators, oral drops and/or injectable serums containing such modified microbes to ensure that such an immunising effect would be conferred simultaneously with exposure to the artificially-changed genetic version of the microbe. A set of clinical responses involving all such pathways may ultimately bring a promise of a health-related “Golden Age” throughout the world.

Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Agricultural Science and Agronomy

Nezha Kharraz,

István Szabó

Abstract: The integration of cloud computing, IoT, and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming precision agriculture by enabling real-time monitoring, data analytics, and dynamic control of environmental factors. This study develops a cloud-driven data analytics pipeline for indoor agriculture, using lettuce as a test crop due to its suitability for controlled environments. Built with Apache NiFi, the pipeline facilitates real-time ingestion, processing, and storage of IoT sensor data measuring light, moisture, and nutrient levels. Machine learning models, including SVM, Gradient Boosting, and Deep Neural Networks, analyzed 12 weeks of sensor data to predict growth trends and optimize thresholds. Random Forest analysis identified light intensity as the most influential factor (importance: 0.7), while multivariate regression highlighted phosphorus (0.54) and temperature (0.23) as key contributors to plant growth. Nitrogen exhibited a strong positive correlation (0.85) with growth, whereas excessive moisture (–0.78) and slightly elevated temperatures (–0.24) negatively impacted plant development. To enhance resource efficiency, this study introduces the Integrated Agricultural Efficiency Metric (IAEM), a novel framework that synthesizes key factors including resource usage, alert accuracy, data latency, and cloud availability, leading to a 32% improvement in resource efficiency. Unlike traditional productivity metrics, IAEM incorporates real-time data processing and cloud infrastructure to address the specific demands of modern indoor farming. The combined approach of scalable ETL pipelines with predictive analytics reduced light use by 25%, water by 30%, and nutrients by 40%, while simultaneously improving crop productivity and sustainability. These findings underscore the transformative potential of integrating IoT, AI, and cloud-based analytics in precision agriculture, paving the way for more resource-efficient and sustainable farming practices.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Food Science and Technology

Aristide Guillaume Silapeux Kamda,

Hans Martial Changam,

Isabelle Sandrine BOUELET NTSAMA,

Gilbert Manga Mbassi,

Abdou Razinkou,

Christine Nyangono,

Roger Ponka,

Mercy BIH ACHU,

Elie Fokou

Abstract: Under-exploited local plant resources such as tiger nuts (Cyperus esculentus L.) have significant nutritional potential to help consumers boost their immune systems and combat nutritional deficiencies. Tiger nuts can be used to produce a less expensive plant-based yoghurt that would enable people suffering from lactose intolerance to enjoy its benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the sensory acceptability and nutrition-al properties of a yoghurt-like product made with tiger nuts pre-treated by various methods (soaking, drying, roasting, boiling, germination). Nutritional analyses were carried out using conventional methods. Quantifying bioactive and antinutrient com-pounds (tannins, phytates, oxalates and saponins) were conducted via spectropho-tometry and titration methods. A subjective sensory analysis and the organoleptic characteristics was carried out. Yoghurt samples made with tiger nuts, pretreated through roasting (RYS) showed the best sensory characteristics and overall acceptabil-ity. Drying of tiger nuts resulted in a significantly higher energy value, as did the pro-tein content (5.46%) in the germinated yoghurt and the fibre content (2.80%) in the boiled yoghurt. With regard to bioactive compounds, phenolic compounds (393.39mgEAG/100gMS) were more abondant in the yoghurt whose seeds were boiled while the content of alkaloids; (1178.08 mgEC/100gMS) were higher in the products made with roasted tiger nuts. Drying, boiling, roasting and germination were respec-tively the most effective pretreatment methods for the reduction of the amount of tan-nins, oxalate, phytate and saponin. Making yoghurt with roasting tiger nuts appear to be the best option as regards to its sensory attributes and its nutritional properties. The consumption of that yoghurt will be of great importance specifically for those suffering from lactose intolerance.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Virology

Lihua Wang,

Yuzhen Li,

Xirui Zhang,

Rachel Madera,

Homer Pantua,

Aidan Craig,

Nina Muro,

Danqin Li,

Jamie Retallick,

Franco Matias Ferreyra

+3 authors
Abstract:

African swine fever (ASF), a highly contagious and lethal viral disease, continues to devastate the global swine industry. The emergence of ASF virus (ASFV) variants with varying genomic deletions poses significant challenges to ASF control. This study presents a novel, sensitive, and reliable quadplex real-time PCR assay for detecting ASFV variants lacking key genes (I177L, EP402R, and MGF360-14L), either individually or in combination. The assay targets conserved regions within these genes, ensuring broad coverage of diverse ASFV genotypes. A porcine beta-actin (ACTB) internal control was incorporated to minimize false-negative results. Optimization and evaluation using spike-in tests demonstrated high sensitivity with a limit of detection (LOD) ranging from 1-10 plasmid copies or 0.1 TCID50 of ASFV isolates per reaction. No cross-reactivity was observed when testing serum samples from pigs infected with other common swine viruses. Further validation across a diverse panel of samples, comprising those from naturally ASFV-infected field pigs (n=54), experimentally ASFV-infected pigs (n=50), PBS-inoculated pigs (n=50), ASFV-free field pigs (n=100), and feral pigs (n=6), confirmed 100% specificity. This robust assay provides a valuable tool for rapid and accurate ASF surveillance and control efforts, facilitating the timely detection and mitigation of outbreaks caused by emerging ASFV variants.

Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Rafael Luiz Mesquita Souza,

Felipe J. Aidar,

Leonardo dos Santos,

Jymmys Lopes Dos Santos,

Lucio Marques Vieira Souza,

André Luiz Gomes Carneiro,

Paulo Francisco de Almeida-Neto,

Breno Guilherme de Araújo Tinoco Cabral,

Anderson Carlos Marçal,

Pantelis T. Nikolaidis

Abstract: BACKGOUND: In powerlifting, velocity indicators and skin temperature have been utilized to control training loads for both conventional athletes and athletes with disabilities.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate maximum velocity (Vmax), mean propulsive velocity (MPV), power output, and skin temperature (ST) following a 5x5 training session at 80% 1RM in conventional powerlifters (CP) and powerlifters with disabilities (PD).METHODS: 24 male athletes (12 CP and 12 PD) underwent a 5x5 training session at 80% 1RM. Post-session, velocity indicators, power output, and ST were assessed at 45% 1RM.RESULTS: Only the CP group exhibited significant differences in Vmax (P < 0.015), MPV (P < 0.007), and power output (P < 0.022) between time points. Regarding ST, only the PD group showed differences (P < 0.004) in the sternal portion of the pectoralis major. For the long head of the triceps brachii, differences were observed between groups in the post-session measurement (P > 0.024) and for the PD group only in the post-session measurement (P < 0.002).CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that following a traditional training session (80% 1RM), assessments at 45% 1RM revealed different kinetics in velocity, power output, and ST measures between CP and PD groups. These findings suggest that within the same sport discipline, training variables may have distinct impacts across different categories of athletes.
Communication
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Hiroyuki Suzuki,

Shiori Fujisawa,

Rena Ubukata,

Tomohiro Tanaka,

Airi Nomura,

Keisuke Shinoda,

Takuya Nakamura,

Hiroyuki Satofuka,

Guanjie Li,

Mika K. Kaneko

+1 authors
Abstract:

Podoplanin (PDPN) is a type I transmembrane protein with a highly glycosylated extracellular domain, a transmembrane domain, and a short intracellular domain. PDPN expression is observed in normal tissue and cells, including lung type I alveolar epithelial cells, kidney podocytes, and lymphatic endothelial cells. Therefore, anti-PDPN monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in various animal species helped to identify PDPN-positive cells.We have developed anti-PDPN mAbs in more than 20 species. These anti-PDPN mAbs are applicable to flow cytometry, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. In this study, anti-rhinoceros PDPN (rhiPDPN) mAbs, PMab-315 (mouse IgG2a, kappa) and PMab-324 (mouse IgG2b, kappa) were established using the Cell-Based Immunization and Screening (CBIS) method. PMab-315 and PMab-324 strongly recognized the rhiPDPN-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary K1 (CHO/rhiPDPN) and exhibited the same KD value (4.5 × 10−8 M) for CHO/rhiPDPN by a flow cytometry-based assay. Both mAbs can detect rhiPDPN in western blot and immunohistochemistry. These results suggest the usefulness of PMab-315 and PMab-324 for the pathological analysis of rhinoceros-derived tissues and cells.

Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Patrick Chambers

Abstract:

The gut microbiome has been the subject of increasing interest as integral to our health. Few realize that the enormous benefits of vitamin D (VD) and magnesium (Mg) are highly dependent on a healthy gut microbiome. Short chain fatty acids, especially butyrate, reflect not only a healthy gut microbiome but also VD status. Suboptimal VD, Mg, or butyrate translates to some degree of gut dysbiosis and vice versa. Mg dependent secondary bile acids, indoles, and tryptophan, all microbial metabolites and longevity agents, are also discussed. Mg is indispensable to not only the synthesis of the active form of VD but also that of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) from acetate. 7-DHC is the substrate for solar conversion to D3. The steadily increasing Ca:Mg in the Western diet and its ironic impact on parathormone (PTH) is discussed. Gut dysbiosis further complicates this. Biochemical and physiologic interlinkages are legion and most remain hidden. This limited mini review exposes insight into the tight linkage between 25(OH)D and Ca:Mg, facilitated by the gut microbiome. A model incorporating the physiologically discordant but reinforcing effects on this linkage based on genes, culture, socioeconomic status, and diet that also addresses the seemingly contradictory reports regarding calcium (Ca), Mg, and VD efficacy is proposed. The balance between Ca and Mg is at the heart of the global epidemic of insulin resistance. A reliable method for estimating intracellular Mg++ is also proposed. A primary goal of this paper is to awaken the global public to not only the inadequacy of the RDA for Mg dependent vitamin D but also to that for the RDAs for Mg and Ca. Using generally accepted serum reference ranges, the difference between RBC Mg and plasma Mg, and basic physiology, one can both uncover the serious shortfall involving all three and unequivocally demonstrate the significant health risks linked to an out of range Ca:Mg. Conclusions are observational not experimental.

Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Biophysics

Mingxing Ouyang,

Yao Gao,

Binqian Zhou,

Jia Guo,

Lei Lei,

Yingxiao Wang,

Linhong Deng

Abstract:

von Willebrand factor (vWF) is a large glycoprotein in circulation system, which senses hydrodynamic force at vascular injuries and then recruits platelets in assembling clots. How vWF mechanosenses shear flow for molecular unfolding is an important topic. Here, Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor was developed to monitor vWF conformation change to hydrodynamic force. The full-length vWF-based biosensor is anchored on cell surface, in which A2 domain is flanked with FRET pair. With 293T cells seeded into microfluidic channels, 2.8 dyn/cm2 shear force induced remarkable FRET change (~60%) in 30 min. Gradient micro-shear below 2.8 dyn/cm2 demonstrated FRET responses positively related to flow magnitudes with 0.14 dyn/cm2 inducing obvious change (~16%). The FRET increases indicate closer positioning of A2’s two termini in vWF, supported with high FRET of A2 only-based biosensor, which probably resulted from flow-induced A2 dissociation from vWF intramolecular binding. Interestingly, gradual increase of flow from 2.8 to 28 dyn/cm2 led to decreasing FRET changes, suggesting the second-level unfolding in A2 domain. LOCK-vWF biosensor with bridged A2 two termini or A2 only biosensor couldn’t sense the shear, indicating structure-flexible A2 and large vWF molecules important in the mechanosensation. In conclusion, the developed vWF-based biosensor demonstrated high mechanosensation of vWF with two-level unfolding to shear force: the dissociation of A2 domain from vWF intramolecular binding under micro shear, and then unfolding of A2 in vWF under higher shear. This study provides new insights on vWF mechanosensitive feature for its physiological functions and implicated disorders.

Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Behavioral Sciences

Cemil Tölü

Abstract: A crucial component of small ruminant production, particularly where intensive systems are becoming more prevalent, is determining the forage-to-concentrate (F:C) ratio in their daily diets. The effects of the F:C ratio in lamb, and goat kids' daily diets on growth, stereotypical behavior, and blood biochemical parameters were investigated. Eighteen Tahirova sheep lambs and 18 Turkish Saanen goat kids were used, divided into three groups using the following F:C ratios: 20:80, 60:40, and 80:20. Growth rates, weight gains, and feed conversion ratios were determined. Urea nitrogen, glucose, non-esterified fatty acids, creatine kinase and cortisol hormones were measured in blood samples. In lambs, growth remained consistent across F:C groups. In goat kids, however, the 20:80 group showed superior growth and weight gain. Based on the F:C ratios, behavioral differences were found in forage feeding, rumination, water consumption, and standing activities. Similarly, the 20:80 group displayed higher rates of bar biting, crib biting, and wool biting in lambs, as well as bar biting, crib biting, bucket biting, and chain chewing in goat kids. Cortisol levels were significantly higher in the 20:80 group than in the 80:20 group for both species. Insufficient forage can cause abnormal stereotypical behaviors, which negatively impact animal welfare.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

Madalina Iordache,

Laurentiu Zamfir,

Alexandra Becherescu,

Codruta Chis

Abstract: The dendroflora of an urban arboretum, consisting of 193 species, was ecologically characterized as bioforms, phytogeographical elements, and preferences for moisture, temperature, and soil reaction. The inventoried species are grouped in 111 genera and 45 families. The native and non-native dendroflora share 16 common families. The most representative family both in the native and non-native dendroflora is Rosaceae. The monotypic families are largely present (22.22% in the native dendroflora, and respectively 42.22% in the non-native dendroflora). The plant life-form spectrum is dominated by megaphanerophytes (49%), followed by mesophanerophytes (41%). The chorological spectrum of the native species comprises 16 chorological types and is dominated by Eurasians (32%) and Europeans (30%). The species characteristics of the Pontic-Carpathian space, to which Romania belongs, are rare in the analyzed urban park (4%). The mesophyte, mesothermal and slightly acido-neutrophilous species dominate both the native and non-native dendroflora. In the adaption process of the non-native dendroflora, 37% of species exceeded their native requirements for moisture, 41% for temperature, and 50% for soil reaction. The species requirements for temperature are associated to those for moisture and soil reaction. The results show the potential of the analysed woody species to exceed their native requirements within the acclimation and adaption process, and in this process, for the studied temperate site, the plant life-form is important, and also the plant family. The species of the analyzed urban arboretum, both native and non-native, are taxonomically and biogeographically diverse, with specific habitat requirements, suggesting their great ability in acclimating, adapting and resisting.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Jinmin Liu,

Yimon Aye

Abstract: Spurred by the authors’ own recent discovery of reactive metabolite-regulated nexuses involving lipid droplets (LDs), this perspective discusses the latest knowledge and multifaceted approaches toward deconstructing the function of these dynamic organelles, LD-associated localized signaling networks, and protein players. Despite accumulating knowledge surrounding protein families and pathways of conserved importance for LD homeostasis surveillance and maintenance across taxa, much remains to be understood at the molecular level. In particular, metabolic stress-triggered contextual changes in LD-proteins’ localized functions, crosstalk with other organelles, and feedback signaling loops, and how these are specifically rewired in disease states, remain to be illuminated with spatiotemporal precision. We hope this perspective promotes an increased interest in these essential organelles and innovations of new tools and strategies to better understand context-specific LD regulation critical for organismal health.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Plant Sciences

Aliki Kapazoglou,

Eleni Tani,

Vasileios Papasotiropoulos,

Sophia Letsiou,

Maria Gerakari,

Eleni Abraham,

Penelope J. Bebeli

Abstract: Climate change has a negative impact on crop productivity, yield and product quality. Abiotic stresses such as increased drought, elevated temperatures, flooding, salinity and extreme weather events may severely affect plant development, reproduction, yield and fruit quality. Plants have evolved mechanisms to face stressful conditions and adapt to increased environmental pressures. Intricate molecular processes involving genetic and epigenetic factors and interactions with the sphere of the microbiota have been implicated in the response of plants to abiotic stresses. Deciphering the mechanisms whereby plants perceive and respond to stress and acquire resilience is crucial for developing strategies to counteract current and future climate challenges. The advances in new technologies and methodologies such as next-generation sequencing, multi-omics, GWAS, New Plant Breeding Techniques (NPBTs), have led to the elucidation of various aspects of the complex gene networks and metabolic pathways underlying plant processes as well as plant-microbiota crosstalk involved in the response to abiotic stresses. Although most of this knowledge has arisen from research on model and annual herbaceous plants, recent efforts have begun illuminating the molecular basis of abiotic stress tolerance in woody perennial species. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive overview and discuss the recent findings concerning genetic, epigenetic and microbiome aspects shaping abiotic stress responses, in the context of enhancing tolerance to environmental stressors in important Mediterranean woody fruit crops.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Sergei Boichuk,

Aigul Galembikova,

David Vollmer

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine whether supplementation of the ultra- and nanofiltered colostrum-based products, combined with egg yolk extract, NMN, quercetin, alpha-ketoglutarate, white button mushroom, and celery seed extracts (the formula was patented by 4Life Research Company, USA and named as AgePro) modulate the functional activity of NK cells in vivo. We found that this supplement taken orally at 2 capsules twice a day for 30 days significantly enhanced the cytotoxic activity of NK cells. This was evidenced by the increased NK cell-mediated killing of carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester-labeled (CFSE)-labeled K562 human myeloid leukemia cells. As expected, this effect was dependent on the ratio between effector (E) (i.e., PBMCs) and target (T) (i.e., K562) cells illustrating maximal killing of K562 cells at 50:1 E/T ratio. Of note, increased NK-mediated killing of K562 cells after taking AgePro correlated with the increased perforin release, evidenced by the CD107a degranulation assay. In concordance with these findings, taking of AgePro for 1 month increased production of several cytokines and chemokines, including IL-1β, IL-1Rα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, TNF-α, G-CSF, PDGF-AA, PDGF-AB/BB, GRO, MCP-1, MCP-3, and MIP-1α by PBMCs co-cultured with K562 cells. Of note, increased production of the cytokines correlated with the activation state of PBMCs, as evidenced by increased expression of the surface activation markers (e.g., the interleukin-2 receptor alpha chain - CD25). A strong correlation was found between NK-based cytotoxic activity and the production of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and MIP-1α. Importantly, no increase of the aforementioned soluble factors and activation markers was detected in PBMCs cultured alone, thereby illustrating the potent immunoregulatory activity of AgePro only in the presence of the harmful target cells. Hematological parameters also remained unchanged over the entire study period. Collectively, we show here for the first time the significant enhancement of the cytotoxic activity of NK cells against target tumor cells after taking AgePro for 1 month. Notably, this effect was observed for all age groups, including young, adult, and elderly participants. Moreover, a significant improvement in NK cytotoxic activity was also detected for participants with low basal (i.e., before taking AgePro) numbers of NK-mediated killing. The enhancement of NK-based cytotoxicity was associated with the increased release of several cytokines and chemokines involved in regulating a broad spectrum of mechanisms outside the cell-mediated cytotoxicity and killing of target cells. Of note, spontaneous activation of PBMCs, particularly NK cells, was not detected after taking AgePro. Given that spontaneous activation of autoreactive lymphocytes is a feature associated with autoimmunity and taking into account our data illustrating the AgePro-induced activation of NK cells detected only in the presence of the potentially harmful cells, we conclude that our innovative product exhibits potent immunoregulatory activity and high safety profile.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Rosetta Ragusa,

Pasquale Bufano,

Alessandro Tognetti,

Marco Laurino,

Chiara Caselli

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous inflammatory condition characterized by progressive airflow limitation which may be caused by genetic and environmental factors. Beside, epigenetic mechanisms could provide valuable insights into the complex interactions between environment and genes and subsequent development of the disease. The aim of this study is to provide a systematic review of the latest knowledge on epigenetic modifications that characterize COPD summarizing epigenetic factors that could serve as potential novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of COPD patients. Methods: We queried the PubMed and Scopus electronic databases with specific keywords, in May 2024, according to the PRISMA guidelines, and articles were included if they met all the inclusion criteria and survived a quality assessment Results: We identified 5414 publications in our systematic search. Among them, only 51 articles met the criteria of COPD-associated epigenetic modifications in human patients compared to control group. 8 studies described DNA methylation, 1 study histone modifications, and 42 studies non-coding RNAs. Conclusion: Apoptosis and inflammatory pathways have been found to be the main mechanisms regulated by epigenetic elements in COPD patients. In addition, non-coding RNAs may be useful as biomarkers or therapeutic targets of pulmonary disease. Future studies will be needed to confirm the role of epigenetic elements associated with COPD.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Parasitology

Qianqian Mu,

Haojun Cai,

Haiting Xiong,

Biying Zhou

Abstract: Cysticercosis is a serious zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the larval cysts of Taenia solium parasitizing humans or pigs. The immune pathogenesis of this disease is currently unclear. Preliminary studies found that the thioredoxin peroxidase (TPx) protein in the excretory-secretory antigens (ESA) of the cysticercus cellulosae can induce T-cell immune imbalance in piglets, leading to a Th2-type immune response. In this study, flow cytometry revealed that TPx protein can induce Th1 cells differentiation within 24 hours and Th2 cells differentiation within 48 hours. Further analysis of the different transcriptomes after TPx protein treatment of Jurkat T cells suggested that TPx protein may induce host Th1/Th2 cells imbalance through the janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway. Western blot results indicated that treatment with TPx protein for 48 hours significantly increased the expression of p-JAK3, p-STAT6, and GATA3 proteins. Interestingly, after using a JAK3 inhibitor, the expression level of the Th1 transcription factor TBX21 significantly increased, indicating that after inhibiting Th2 cells differentiation, T cells tend to differentiate toward the Th1 cells direction. In summary, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway plays a key role in the cysticercus cellulosae TPx protein induced Th1/Th2 cells imbalance, providing important scientific evidence for elucidating the immune pathogenesis of cysticercosis and vaccine development.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Life Sciences

Sanjana Bana,

Sia Daffara,

Aastha Dagar,

Ashutosh Kumar Tiwari,

Kanupriya Medhi,

Sagarika Mukherjee,

Vivek Uttam,

Md Rizwan Ansari,

Hardeep Singh Tuli,

Vikas Yadav

+1 authors
Abstract: Pancreatic (PC), colorectal (CRC), hepatocellular (HCC), and gallbladder (GC) cancers together account for nearly 20% of all cancer cases. However, specific biomarkers and therapeutic targets for these cancers are lacking. Diagnosing these cancers early and providing timely, appropriate treatment to improve patient outcomes is crucial. In this context, previous studies, including ours, have highlighted the potential of non-coding RNAs, particularly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), in diagnosing and prognosis various cancers. This review focuses on the mechanistic role of the recently identified lncRNA LINC00261 in PC, CRC, HCC, and GC. Our comprehensive literature analysis revealed that LINC00261 functions as a tumor suppressor, and its reduced expression is associated with larger tumor size, advanced tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stages, lymphatic metastasis, and poorer overall survival rates. Additionally, we discovered that LINC00261 acts as a molecular sponge for miRNAs such as miR-550a-3p, miR-23a-3p, miR-148a, miR-324-3p, and miR-105-5p, regulating critical cancer-related signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Protein kinase B, and Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Further bioinformatic analysis revealed that LINC00261 regulates key cellular processes such as protein-DNA complex formation, ribonuclease complex activity, histone deacetylase complexes, and nuclear matrix interactions. Overall, we believe that LINC00261 holds significant promise as a future biomarker and, when combined with existing treatment strategies, may enhance cancer patient care and survival.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Agricultural Science and Agronomy

Abbas Shoukat,

Uswah Maryam,

Britta Pitann,

Muhammad Mubashar Zafar,

Allah Nawaz,

Waseem Hassan,

Khalid M Elhindi,

Zulfiqar Ahmad Saqib,

Karl H Muehling

Abstract: The increasing global population and worsening climate change have intensified challenges in sustainable agriculture, particularly in saline-affected regions. Soil salinity, impacting approximately 20% of irrigated lands, severely reduces crop productivity by disrupting plant physiological and biochemical processes. This study evaluates the effectiveness of zinc (Zn) and silicon (Si) nanofertilizers in improving maize (Zea mays L.) growth, nutrient uptake, and yield under both saline and non-saline field conditions. ZnO and SiO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized via co-precipitation and sol-gel methods, respectively, and characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. A split-plot field experiment was conducted, applying nano and conventional Zn and Si fertilizers at recommended rates, with agronomic, chemical, and physiological parameters assessed. The results demonstrated that nano Zn and nano Si significantly enhanced, cob length, and grain yield. Nano Si exhibits the highest increase in biomass (110%) and nutrient use efficiency almost two times more than control under non-saline conditions. Under saline stress, nano Zn and Si improved nutrient uptake efficiency, reduced sodium accumulation, and increased grain yield by 66% and 106%, respectively, compared to the control. PCA analysis revealed a strong correlation between nano Zn and Si applications and improved physiological and yield attributes. These findings highlight the potential of nanotechnology-based fertilizers in mitigating salinity stress and enhancing crop productivity, offering a promising strategy for sustainable agriculture in salt-affected soils.
Review
Biology and Life Sciences
Biology and Biotechnology

Donatella Mentino,

Carlotta De Blasi,

Daniela Semeraro,

Maria Mastrodonato,

Marco Vito Guglielmi

Abstract: Mucomics is the study of mucus and its biochemical properties. This discpline has gained increasing attention due to the critical roles mucus plays in protection, adhesion, and communication across species. Ethical restriction on vertebrate research have driven interest in invertebrate models such as molluscs. Molluscs produce a large amount of mucus which several functions including immune defense, digestion, and environmental adaptation. Molluscs - terrestrial, freshwater, or marine - are valuable models for investigating mucus composition and its responses to environmental stressors, including heavy metal contamination. Histochemical and glycomic techniques have revealed variations in mucin glycosylation patterns that influence mucus functionality, such as its viscoelastic and adhesive properties. Bivalves, widely used as bioindicators, accumulate pollutants in their mucus, reflecting environmental health. Investigative techniques such as lectin histochemistry, proteomic, and glycomic analyses provide insights into the impact of contaminants on mucus composition. Further research on molluscan mucins can enhance understanding of their physiological roles, environmental interactions, and potential biomedical applications. By integrating molecular and histochemical approaches, mucomic studies offer a comprehensive perspective on mucus function, advancing both ecological monitoring and biotechnological applications.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Neuroscience and Neurology

Felipe Munoz,

Cristian Aedo-Sanchez,

Felipe Paredes-Aravena,

Enzo Aguilar-Vidal,

Pedro Jilberto-Vergara,

Gonzalo Terreros

Abstract: Pesticide exposure poses a significant health risk, with emerging evidence suggesting its impact on auditory function. This study investigated the effects of pesticide exposure on hearing in young rural residents living near agricultural areas in Chile's O'Higgins Re-gion. We evaluated 51 participants (31 exposed, 20 unexposed) aged 18-35 years, using comprehensive audiological assessments including high-frequency audiometry, distor-tion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs), and auditory brainstem responses (ABR). Participants were classified based on residential proximity to agricultural areas and oc-cupational exposure, with exposed individuals living around 400 meters or less from monoculture fields. Results revealed significant differences in high-frequency hearing thresholds (14 and 16 kHz) in exposed individuals. The exposed group showed a higher number of absent DPOAEs and reduced ABR wave V amplitude in the right ear compared to the unexposed group. Additionally, the wave V/I ratio was significantly lower in exposed individuals. These findings suggest that pesticide exposure, even without direct occupational contact, may induce measurable changes in auditory function, particularly affecting high-frequency hearing and neural responses. These results emphasize the need for enhanced monitoring and protective measures for populations residing near agricultural areas where pesticides are extensively used.
Article
Biology and Life Sciences
Agricultural Science and Agronomy

Johnson Eniola,

Adeyemi Enoch

Abstract: This research explores the dynamics of organic food pricing in Jordan and examines whether the affordability of organic products acts as a barrier to their growth in the local market. The study aims to understand the relationship between the pricing of organic food items and consumer purchasing behaviors, as well as the factors influencing the affordability and accessibility of these products in Jordanian markets.The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys of 300 consumers to analyze pricing perception and affordability, with qualitative interviews of 20 local producers and retailers to understand pricing strategies and market challenges. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and thematic analysis.Key findings suggest that while there is growing interest in organic products, a significant portion of consumers (62%) view organic food as unaffordable. Furthermore, organic food prices were found to be higher by an average of 30-40% compared to conventional products, primarily due to production costs, limited supply, and market inefficiencies. Consumer willingness to pay for organic products was positively correlated with income level and education, but lower-income groups were more likely to perceive organic food as an unattainable luxury.The study concludes that affordability is indeed a major barrier to the growth of the organic food sector in Jordan. While there is potential demand, the high price point limits its accessibility to a broader population. Recommendations include the implementation of government subsidies, improved supply chain efficiencies, and increased consumer education to enhance the affordability and market penetration of organic foods in Jordan.

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