Review
Physiology
Krystyna Pierzchala-Koziec, Colin G. Scanes
Summary: The review explores the presence of potential hormonal opioid peptides in birds and other vertebrates. It identifies four opioid-related genes, which encode a series of peptides: proenkephalin (PENK), prodynorphin (PDYN), pronociceptin (PNOC), and proopiomelanocortin (POMC). These genes produce various opioid peptides with distinct physiological roles and effects, including pain modulation and growth/development. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the specific biological functions, interactions, and processing of these peptides in different tissues, especially in avian species.
FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Miriam M. Duell, Katharina Wolf, Marcel Vetter, Peter Dietrich, Markus F. Neurath, Andreas E. Kremer
Summary: This study investigated the levels of important endogenous opioids in patients with immune-mediated hepatobiliary disorders and found that they do not correlate with itch intensity or differentiate pruritic from non-pruritic patients. This suggests that endogenous opioids may modulate signaling pathways involved in hepatic pruritus, but are unlikely to represent the major pruritogens in liver disease.
FRONTIERS IN MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Fu-Jun Zhai, Song-Ping Han, Tian-Jia Song, Ran Huo, Xing-Yu Lan, Rong Zhang, Ji-Sheng Han
Summary: The analgesic effect of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in a spared nerve injury model was characterized and its underlying mechanisms were examined. Different frequencies of SCS were found to mediate analgesic effects through different endorphins and opioid receptors.
NEUROSCIENCE BULLETIN
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Manuel Lisardo Sanchez, Francisco D. D. Rodriguez, Rafael Covenas
Summary: Peptides play a crucial role in cancer progression, promoting mitogenesis, migration, invasion, metastasis, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Peptide receptors are overexpressed in tumor cells, making them potential targets for specific cancer treatments and apoptosis induction. Opioids have both anti-tumoral and pro-tumoral effects, and their involvement in cancer development is still not well understood.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Anna Abrimian, Tamar Kraft, Ying-Xian Pan
Summary: Endogenous opioid peptides, including enkephalins, dynorphins, and beta-endorphin, act through MOR, DOR, and KOR receptors, playing important roles in analgesia and various biological processes. The OPRM1 gene undergoes extensive pre-mRNA splicing, generating multiple splice variants, with the 7TM C-terminal variants playing a key role in the pharmacological functions of endogenous opioid peptides.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Dong-Ho Youn, Jiyeon Jun, Tae Wan Kim, Kibeom Park
Summary: This study investigated the effects of spinally administered orexin A on opioid-induced hyperalgesia. The results showed that spinal orexin A attenuated mechanical hypersensitivity induced by opioids through the activation of the OX1R. These findings suggest that targeting the orexin A-OX1R pathway in the spinal dorsal horn may have therapeutic potential for opioid-induced hyperalgesia.
KOREAN JOURNAL OF PAIN
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jie Zhao, Yue-yuan Wang, Wen-ling Chen, Guang-shu Hao, Jian-ping Sun, Qing-fang Shi, Fang Tian, Run-tian Ma
Summary: Developing highly sensitive and selective methods for Cu2+ detection in living systems is of great significance in clinical copper-related disease diagnosis. In this study, a near infrared fluorescent probe CySBH was designed and synthesized for real-time tracking and visualization of Cu2+ in living cells, showing excellent selectivity and sensitivity.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hsiu-Fang Fan, Wen-Ling Chen, Yan-Zhow Chen, Jian-Wei Huang, Yu-Xin Shen
Summary: This study demonstrates that the abnormal accumulation of alpha-Syn protein in human brain cells is a pathological feature of Parkinson's disease. There are differences in oligomer formation and intracellular interactions between familial Parkinson's disease mutants and C-terminal alpha-Syn truncations.
ACS CHEMICAL NEUROSCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
En Lien, Rama Shanker Sahu, Wen-Ling Chen, Yang-hsin Shih
Summary: Sulfamethoxazole (SMX), a widely used antibiotic, has raised concerns over the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment. This study investigated the use of perovskite-type photocatalysts for the removal of SMX. The CaCu3Ti4O7 (CCTO) perovskites showed excellent degradation efficiency under UV-light irradiation, with the addition of NaBr electrolytes further enhancing the removal rate. The study suggests that the inexpensive and environmentally benign CCTO perovskite photocatalyst can be applied for the treatment of emerging contaminants in the future.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Wenling Chen, Feifei Chen, Shanxing Lai, Menggui Jin, Siyu Xu, Yanfeng Liu, Xing Liang, Ty P. A. Ferre
Summary: This study investigated the distribution and dynamics of cotton fine roots under film-mulched drip irrigation using the minirhizotron technique. The non-uniform distribution of soil moisture and salinity affected the distribution of root length density (RLD). The average RLD in the shallow soil layer decreased due to localized salinity accumulation. A high RLD peak was observed in the 95-100 cm soil layer with high soil moisture content. The production and number of new roots were highest during the initial growth stages. Thinner roots in the deep soil had shorter lifespans than those in shallow soil. The minirhizotron technique was found to be reliable for estimating cotton fine root distribution and dynamics under film-mulched drip irrigation. A cotton root system architecture model could be developed based on these observations for more accurate evaluation of root distribution and dynamics.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yi-Jie Li, Chia-Hsien Chuang, Wen-Chih Cheng, Shu-Hwa Chen, Wen-Ling Chen, Yu-Jie Lin, Chung-Yen Lin, Yang-hsin Shih
Summary: This study demonstrates that the indigenous microbial community in agricultural soil in Taiwan can degrade Hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) without the need for additional carbon sources. The researchers identified the metabolic pathways utilized by the soil microbial community and several bacterial taxa that contribute to HBCD biotransformation. The study provides insights into the natural attenuation and remediation mechanisms of HBCDs.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Abdul Aziz Alimul Hidayat, Wen-Ling Chen, Rahimah Mohd Nor, Musrifatul Uliyah, Fatin Lailatul Badriyah, Masunatul Ubudiyah
Summary: This study aims to determine the factors associated with patient care manager role and the implementation of the clinical pathway among nurses in private hospitals. The results showed a significant correlation between the role of patient care manager and compliance with COVID-19 clinical pathways.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Yanyan Zhang, Jiadong Lou, Gareth R. Williams, Yuhan Ye, Dandan Ren, Anhua Shi, Junzi Wu, Wenling Chen, Li-Min Zhu
Summary: In this study, pH-responsive mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) were developed for targeted and synergistic anticancer therapy. The MSNs, functionalized with a histidine-tagged targeting peptide, showed pH-responsive drug release and effectively targeted tumor cells. The presence of an anticancer drug and Cu2+ enhanced the chemotherapeutic effect by generating reactive oxygen species. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated the effective killing of tumor cells and diminished tumor volume without off-target toxicity. The functionalized MSNs show great potential for targeted and synergistic anticancer therapies.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Wen-Hsin Chang, Yee Soon Ling, Ko-Chih Wang, Fan-Hua Nan, Wen-Ling Chen
Summary: Mislabelling the geographic origin of same-species aquaculture products can be difficult, but this study successfully used untargeted small-molecule fingerprinting to distinguish between Atlantic salmon from Chile and Norway. The technique identified candidate markers associated with feed formulations, but no markers of potential food safety concern were found.
Article
Optics
Wenling Chen, Chao Liu, Yuqi Zou, Zhihe Ren, Yuanzhuo Xiang, Fanchao Meng, Yinsheng Xu, Chong Hou, Sheng Liang, Lueyun Yang, Guangming Tao
Summary: This Letter presents a flexible omnidirectional reflective film made of polymer substrates and two types of chalcogenide glasses for CO2 laser protection. The optimal structure parameters of the device were determined through simulation. The reflector, fabricated by thermal evaporation, achieved a reflectivity of over 78% at 10.6 μm. This flexible reflective film provides a solution for full-angle CO2 laser protection and has potential applications in wearable laser protective clothing.
CHINESE OPTICS LETTERS
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Huanhuan Zhao, Qingyu Li, Anhua Shi, Ji Cui, Wenling Chen, Junzi Wu
Summary: Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems have advantages in disease treatment, but their side effects and toxicity are controversial. Plant polysaccharide nanoparticles, as safe and natural biomaterials, have become candidate materials for nano-drug delivery systems due to their excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility. They can improve medicine solubility, reduce toxicity and side effects, and enhance biological targeting of medicines. Therefore, the application of plant polysaccharide nanoparticles in drug delivery systems is of great research value.
JOURNAL OF CLUSTER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Business, Finance
Chien-Chiang Lee, Chih-Wei Wang, Hsin-Yi Hsieh, Wen-Ling Chen
Summary: This paper examines the impact of central bank digital currency volatility on a firm's implied volatility. The sample consists of 2853 listed companies in the United States from 2014 to 2018. The results show that the variation of central bank digital currency has a positive effect on a firm's implied volatility. Additionally, the healthier the firm's conditions, the weaker the relationship between central bank digital currency variation and a firm's implied volatility. Moreover, the positive relationship between central bank digital currency and firm's implied volatility holds true for investment-grade, speculative-grade, and unrated firms. Finally, the use of simultaneous equation models (SEM) confirms the robustness of the results even after excluding endogenous concerns. This research serves as a reminder for corporate managers and provides new implications for policymakers.
RESEARCH IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND FINANCE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rong Ren, David H. Bremner, Wenling Chen, Anhua Shi, Tong Wang, Ying Wang, Chengji Wang, Junzi Wu, Li-Min Zhu
Summary: This study developed an integrated AI-MPDA@BSA nanocomposite for pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment using photoacoustic imaging and cascade nitric oxide release. The nanocomposite exhibited significant anti-cancer effects through the combination of photodynamic therapy and gas therapy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Wen-Ling Chen, Sih-Yi Yu, Shu-Yen Liu, Sheng-Chi Lin, Tsung-Han Lee
Summary: Livestock wastewater is used for agricultural irrigation to save water and fertilise the soil. This study used high-resolution mass spectrometry to analyze the impact of swine wastewater irrigation on soil and vegetables. The results showed the presence of micropollutants in both soil and vegetables, but no accumulation or contamination was found under the trial conditions.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Astronomy & Astrophysics
Nuo Lei, Zhengzheng Zhou, Qi Zhuang, Wenling Chen, Sergey Chalov, Shuguang Liu, Lisha Gao, Guangtao Dong
Summary: This study evaluates the accuracy of the China Meteorological Forcing Data Set (CMFD) in the Shanghai megacity and improves the accuracy of CMFD precipitation. The performance of CMFD precipitation varies at different time scales, with better accuracy at the monthly scale. The Geographic Differential Analysis (GDA) method is used to calibrate the CMFD precipitation data set, resulting in improved capability, especially at the sub-daily and daily scales. The calibrated CMFD provides reliable precipitation estimates and captures more extreme precipitation events, making it valuable for hydrological and meteorological hazard monitoring and assessment in the Shanghai area.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Economics
Chien-Chiang Lee, Chih-Wei Wang, Wen-Ling Chen, Pei-Chin Hong
Summary: In this study, we examined the impact of compulsory disclosure regulations on the relationship between Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and firm-specific extreme risk. By using a difference-in-difference approach, we found that the negative impact of ESG score on extreme risk becomes more significant after the announcement of compulsory disclosure regulations. Furthermore, our findings also showed that this effect is more pronounced when firms issue green bonds. Subsample tests revealed that the compulsory influence of the government is more evident in firms with high financial transparency and low crash risk. The empirical findings of our study have important policy implications for governments, regulators, and investors.
Correction
Neurosciences
Lucia Privitera, Ellen L. Hogg, Matthias Gaestel, Mark J. Wall, Sonia A. L. Correa
Article
Neurosciences
Li-Ya Jiang, Guan-Hao Wang, Jing-Jiao Xu, Xiao-Li Li, Xiao-Yan Lin, Xiang Fang, Hong-Xu Zhang, Mei Feng, Chun-Ming Jiang
Summary: This study reveals the importance of LINC00473 in regulating temozolomide (TMZ) resistance in glioblastoma (GB) and its potential mechanism. By regulating the expression of CEBP alpha and MGMT, LINC00473 promotes the formation of chemoresistance. Furthermore, LINC00473 can transfer chemoresistance to adjacent sensitive cells through exosomes.
Article
Neurosciences
Olga Kopach, Tetyana Pivneva, Nataliya Fedirko, Nana Voitenko
Summary: This study found that diabetic animals exhibit severe xerostomia characterized by reduced saliva flow rate, diminished total protein content, and decreased amylase activity. The impaired saliva production in diabetes is associated with reduced and delayed intracellular Ca2+ signals in submandibular acinar cells, caused by malfunctioning mitochondria. Targeting malfunctioning mitochondria may be a potential strategy for the treatment of diabetic xerostomia.
Article
Neurosciences
Nicholas M. Timme, Cherish E. Ardinger, Seth D. C. Weir, Rachel Zelaya-Escobar, Rachel Kruger, Christopher C. Lapish
Summary: This study aimed to assess aversion-resistant drinking behavior in head-fixed mice and explore the relationship between non-consummatory behaviors and aversion-resistant drinking. The results showed that head-fixed mice exhibited heterogenous levels of aversion-resistant drinking and non-consummatory behaviors were related to the intensity of this behavior.
Article
Neurosciences
David R. Maguire, Charles P. France
Summary: Methocinnamox (MCAM) is a novel, long-acting opioid receptor antagonist that effectively decreases fentanyl self-administration and prevents opioid overdose in monkeys. The study demonstrates the potential therapeutic utility of MCAM in the treatment of opioid use disorder.
Article
Neurosciences
Xiang Li, Dan Feng, Shenglu Ma, Mingxing Li, Shulei Zhao, Man Tang
Summary: This study investigated the effects of fluoxetine on neurochemical, neurobiological, and neurobehavioral changes in different subregions of the hippocampus. The results showed that fluoxetine increased dialysate 5-HT, decreased membrane 5-HTT protein, and increased cytoplasmic fraction. Additionally, fluoxetine reduced immobility times in behavioral tests, with greater effects observed in the ventral subregion compared to the dorsal subregion.
Article
Neurosciences
Alexander V. Zholos, Mariia I. Melnyk, Dariia O. Dryn
Summary: Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter in visceral smooth muscles, activating M2 and M3 muscarinic receptors to cause smooth muscle excitation and contraction. This review focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying acetylcholine-induced depolarisation and smooth muscle contraction, as well as the effects of anticholinergic drugs on gastrointestinal motility. The knowledge gained from recent studies has greatly expanded our understanding of these processes.
Article
Neurosciences
Zhenlong Li, Hsien-Yu Peng, Chau-Shoun Lee, Tzer-Bin Lin, Ming-Chun Hsieh, Cheng-Yuan Lai, Han-Fang Wu, Lih-Chyang Chen, Mei-Ci Chen, Dylan Chou
Summary: Methylone shows significant efficacy in treating depression and social deficits, making it an ideal candidate for anti-depressant medication.
Article
Neurosciences
Aline Freyssin, Allison Carles, Sarra Guehairia, Gilles Rubinstenn, Tangui Maurice
Summary: This study explores the potential of combining FENM and S1R agonists in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. The results showed that most FENM-based combinations can protect against learning deficits caused by A beta 25-35, with better efficacy in short-term memory.
Article
Neurosciences
J. D. Lorente, J. Cuitavi, L. Rullo, S. Candeletti, P. Romualdi, L. Hipolito
Summary: This study analyzed the effects of pain on negative affect in different sexes and time courses, as well as the involvement of the dynorphinergic and corticotropin releasing factor systems in these pain-related behaviors. The results showed sex and time-dependent anxiety- and anhedonia-like behaviors induced by pain in female rats. The recruitment of KOR/DYN in the NAc was identified as a key neurological substrate mediating pain-induced behavioral alterations.
Article
Neurosciences
Rongjun Liu, Daofan Sun, Xiuzhong Xing, Qingge Chen, Bo Lu, Bo Meng, Hui Yuan, Lan Mo, Liufang Sheng, Jinwei Zheng, Qiusheng Wang, Junping Chen, Xiaowei Chen
Summary: The coexistence of pain and depression is frequently observed in patients with chronic pain and depression. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide, has been reported to relieve chronic pain and depressive symptoms. This study investigated the effect of intranasal oxytocin on neuropathic pain and comorbid depressive symptoms, and found that oxytocin attenuated depression-like behavior but did not alleviate mechanical hyperalgesia. The results suggest that intranasal oxytocin may have the potential to treat depressive symptoms in neuropathic pain patients.