bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances and Prospects in Antibacterial-Osteogenic Multifunctional Dental Implant Surface
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Li Baosheng , Cai Qing , Li Xiaoyu , Yin Zhaoyi , Li Birong , Li Zhen , Meng Weiyan
Published: May 2022

In recent years, dental implantation has become the preferred protocol for restoring dentition defects. Being the direct contact between implant and bone interface, osseointegration is the basis for implant exerting physiological functions. Nevertheless, biological complications such as insufficient bone volume, poor osseointegration, and postoperative infection can lead to implant failure. Emerging antibacterial-osteogenic multifunctional implant surfaces were designed to make up for these shortcomings both during the stage of forming osseointegration and in the long term of supporting the superstructure. In this mini-review, we summarized the recent antibacterial-osteogenic modifications of the dental implant surface. The effects of these modifications on biological performance like soft tissue integration, bone osteogenesis, and immune response were discussed. In addition, the clinical findings and prospects of emerging antibacterial-osteogenic implant materials were also discussed.
Tissue-Level Regeneration and Remodeling Dynamics are Driven by Mechanical Stimuli in the Microenvironment in a Post-Bridging Loaded Femur Defect Healing Model in Mice
Authors: Paul Graeme R. , Vallaster Paul , Rüegg Michelle , Scheuren Ariane C. , Tourolle Duncan C. , Kuhn Gisela A. , Wehrle Esther , Müller Ralph
Published: May 2022

Bone healing and remodeling are mechanically driven processes. While the generalized response to mechanical stimulation in bone is well-understood, much less is known about the mechanobiology-regulating tissue-scale bone formation and resorption during the reparative and remodeling phases of fracture healing. In this study, we combined computational approaches in the form of finite element analysis and experimental approaches by using a loaded femoral defect model in mice to investigate the role of mechanical stimulation in the microenvironment of bone. Specifically, we used longitudinal micro-computed tomography to observe temporal changes in bone at different densities and micro-finite element analysis to map the mechanics of the microenvironment to tissue-scale formation, quiescence (no change in bone presence between time points), and resorption dynamics in the late reparative and remodeling phases (post bridging). Increasing levels of effective strain led to increasing conditional probability of bone formation, while decreasing levels of effective strain led to increasing probability of bone resorption. In addition, the analysis of mineralization dynamics showed both a temporal and effective strain level-dependent behavior. A logarithmic-like response was displayed, where the conditional probability of bone formation or resorption increased rapidly and plateaued or fell rapidly and plateaued as mechanical strain increased.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived Exosomes Ameliorate Ischemia/Reperfusion Induced Acute Kidney Injury in a Porcine Model
Authors: Huang Jianni , Cao Hao , Cui Binbin , Ma Xiaoyan , Gao Ling , Yu Chao , Shen Fengchen , Yang Xinyu , Liu Na , Qiu Andong , Cai Guangyan , Zhuang Shougang
Published: May 2022

Exosomes are membrane-enclosed vesicles secreted by cells, containing a variety of biologically active ingredients including proteins, nucleic acids and lipids. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of the exosomes and underlying mechanisms in a miniature pig model of ischemia/reperfusion-induced acute kidney injury (I/R-AKI). The exosomes were extracted from cultured human umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) and infused into a miniature pig model of I/R AKI. Our results showed that 120 min of unilateral ischemia followed by reperfusion and contralateral nephrectomy resulted in renal dysfunction, severe kidney damage, apoptosis and necroptosis. Intravenous infusion of one dose of exosomes collected from about 4 × 108 hUC-MSCs significantly improved renal function and reduced apoptosis and necroptosis. Administration of hUC-MSC exosomes also reduced the expression of some pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, decreased infiltration of macrophages to the injured kidneys and suppressed the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, two transcriptional factors related to inflammatory regulation. Moreover, hUC-MSC exosomes could promote proliferation of renal tubular cells, angiogenesis and upregulation of Klotho and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7, two renoprotective molecules and vascular endothelial growth factor A and its receptor. Collectively, our results suggest that injection of hUC-MSC exosomes could ameliorate I/R-AKI and accelerate renal tubular cell repair and regeneration, and that hUC-MSC exosomes may be used as a potential biological therapy for Acute kidney injury patients.
Copper(II)-Catalyzed Selective CAr-H Bond Formylation: Synthesis of Dialdehyde Aniline
Authors: Guo Shiwei , Li Yinghua , Fan Weibin , Liu Zhiqi , Huang Deguang
Published: May 2022

A simple and efficient method for the synthesis of dialdehyde aniline in good yields (up to 83%) is explored using Cu(OTf)2 as the catalyst, Selectfluor as the radical initiator, and DMSO as both the carbon and oxygen sources. Experimental studies indicate that the reaction is achieved by the formylation of two CAr-H bonds, first at the para-position and then at the ortho-position. A possible mechanism is proposed, including the thermal homolysis of Selectfluor, the Cu(II)-facilitated formylation of the CAr-H bonds, and the hydrolysis of the amide under alkaline conditions in air atmosphere.
Governance of Responsible AI: From Ethical Guidelines to Cooperative Policies
Authors: Gianni Robert , Lehtinen Santtu , Nieminen Mika
Published: May 2022

The increasingly pervasive role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our societies is radically changing the way that social interaction takes place within all fields of knowledge. The obvious opportunities in terms of accuracy, speed and originality of research are accompanied by questions about the possible risks and the consequent responsibilities involved in such a disruptive technology. In recent years, this twofold aspect has led to an increase in analyses of the ethical and political implications of AI. As a result, there has been a proliferation of documents that seek to define the strategic objectives of AI together with the ethical precautions required for its acceptable development and deployment. Although the number of documents is certainly significant, doubts remain as to whether they can effectively play a role in safeguarding democratic decision-making processes. Indeed, a common feature of the national strategies and ethical guidelines published in recent years is that they only timidly address how to integrate civil society into the selection of AI objectives. Although scholars are increasingly advocating the necessity to include civil society, it remains unclear which modalities should be selected. If both national strategies and ethics guidelines appear to be neglecting the necessary role of a democratic scrutiny for identifying challenges, objectives, strategies and the appropriate regulatory measures that such a disruptive technology should undergo, the question is then, what measures can we advocate that are able to overcome such limitations? Considering the necessity to operate holistically with AI as a social object, what theoretical framework can we adopt in order to implement a model of governance? What conceptual methodology shall we develop that is able to offer fruitful insights to governance of AI? Drawing on the insights of classical pragmatist scholars, we propose a framework of democratic experimentation based on the method of social inquiry. In this article, we first summarize some of the main points of discussion around the potential societal, ethical and political issues of AI systems. We then identify the main answers and solutions by analyzing current national strategies and ethics guidelines. After showing the theoretical and practical limits of these approaches, we outline an alternative proposal that can help strengthening the active role of society in the discussion about the role and extent of AI systems.
Efficacy and Safety of a Polysaccharide-Based Natural Substance Complex in the Treatment of Obesity and Other Metabolic Syndrome Components: A Systematic Review
Authors: Guarino Giuseppina , Strollo Felice , Malfertheiner Peter , Della Corte Teresa , Stagi Stefano , Masarone Mario , Gentile Sandro
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is increasingly common in adults as well as in children and adolescents. However, preventing and treating MetS is one of the most pressing challenges for public health services worldwide. At present, the only approved treatments for MetS are dietary changes and physical activity, which are associated with a high rate of non-compliance. On the contrary, no drugs are licensed to treat metabolic syndrome, although a number of drugs are used to treat individual metabolic abnormalities, which increases the risk of adverse events, particularly in children. Policaptil Gel Retard® (PGR), an oral macromolecule complex based on polysaccharides, has been demonstrated to significantly reduce body weight, peak blood glucose (BG) levels, insulin levels, and lipid levels, providing an interesting non-pharmacological therapeutic option for MetS-associated metabolic abnormalities, especially in younger patients.

Aims: To review available studies on the use of PGR in children, adolescents, or adults with obesity or metabolic syndrome.

Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases for PGR and MetS. A total of six studies were identified and included.

Results: Across four randomized clinical studies and one retrospective clinical study including a total of 359 obese children and adolescents with or without MetS and 157 overweight/obese adults with or without MetS and/or T2DM, a single dose of PGR resulted in a reduction in appetite and postprandial triglyceride levels in younger patients and peak postprandial BG levels in adults. Decreased lipid levels were observed in adults following a normocaloric diet who received PGR for 30 days. As a long-term treatment, in combination with a low-glycemic index diet with or without metformin, PGR resulted in reduced body mass index and waist circumference, improved insulin sensitivity with reduction of glucose-metabolism abnormalities, increased insulin reserve and, finally, an improved circulating lipid profile, regardless of age. No safety issues were reported.

Conclusion: Policaptil Gel Retard® is an effective and safe non-pharmacological approach to improve the treatment of MetS-associated cardiovascular risk factors in children, adolescents, and adults.
Effects of Provenance, Transport Processes and Chemical Weathering on Heavy Mineral Composition: A Case Study From the Songhua River Drainage, NE China
Authors: Wu Peng , Xie Yuanyun , Kang Chunguo , Chi Yunping , Sun Lei , Wei Zhenyu
Published: May 2022

Understanding the heavy mineral composition of the Songhua River basin in NE China and the influencing factors (e.g., provenance, transport processes and chemical weathering) is crucial for the study of both the source-to-sink processes and the drainage evolution in the region. To this end, a total of 43 samples were collected from the river bars and terraces of the main and tributary streams of the Songhua River, and analyzed for heavy minerals in different grain-size fractions based on the novel automated TESCAN Integrated Mineral Analyzer (TIMA) combined with standard optical method. The results show that the tributaries originating from different mountains have significantly different heavy mineral composition. The locally occurring basic source signal in the tributaries of the Nenjiang River (the largest tributary of the Songhua River) are not well preserved in the Nenjiang River and the Songhua River trunk streams, indicating that the control of sources on heavy mineral composition is influenced by fluvial processes. Additionally, significant differences in the heavy mineral composition of different reaches of the same river also indicate that the heavy mineral composition is significantly influenced by fluvial processes. Influenced by hydraulic sorting during river processes, heavy minerals are enriched in different size fractions with the low-density minerals systematically overestimated in a wide window, suggesting an advantage of multi-window policy over wide window policy. In contrast to modern river sediments, the original heavy mineral composition of river terrace sediments has been severely damaged due to chemical weathering, so the degree of chemical weathering of terrace sediments needs to be evaluated first in provenance tracing and paleo-drainage evolution studies. TIMA has an irreplaceable role in identifying mineral species, additional images and elemental composition, and however, it performs poorly in identifying polycrystalline minerals, thus the combination with traditional methods can obtain more complete and accurate information.
Effects of Fracture Formation Stage on Shale Gas Preservation Conditions and Enrichment in Complex Structural Areas in the Southern Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Li Jing , Li Hu , Xu Jianliang , Wu Yijia , Gao Zhi
Published: May 2022

Fractures have significantly impacted the preservation, enrichment, and productivity of shale gas in the Longmaxi Formation in the complex structural area of the southern Sichuan Basin. Based on outcrop, core, imaging logging, inclusion analysis, acoustic emission experiments, and burial and thermal evolution history data, the formation stage, evolution and preservation conditions of structural fractures were comprehensively studied. Shear fractures are the main features of tectonic origin and are characterized by small widths, wide spacing, and high filling degrees. The structural fractures of the Longmaxi Formation can be divided into three groups in terms of their formation stage. The first-stage fractures were formed in the middle-late period of the Yanshanian tectonic movement (86.2–68.5 Ma), when the palaeotectonic stress was 68.33–71.82 MPa; and the homogenization temperature of the fluid inclusions in the corresponding fracture fillings is 150–178°C. The second-stage fractures were formed at the end of the Yanshanian -early Himalayan tectonic movement (68.5–35.2 Ma), when the palaeotectonic stress was 85.2–100.5 MPa; the homogenization temperature of the corresponding fluid inclusions is 123–148°C. The third-stage tectonic fractures formed during the middle-late period of the Himalayan tectonic movement (35.2–0 Ma), when the palaeotectonic stress was 55.6–63.8 MPa; fillings are scarce in these fractures, but the measured homogenization temperature of the corresponding fluid inclusions is 90–110°C. Shale gas preservation conditions were affected by the fracture formation stage, maximum horizontal crustal stress, fault scale, structural burial depth, formation pressure coefficient, etc. Three types of favourable preservation conditions were identified. The Type I target area is the low slope area in the middle of the syncline, which occurs more than 2.0 km from the fault. The research results have guiding significance for the evaluation of the preservation conditions of deep shale gas in the study area and similar areas.
Academic Self-Efficacy, Procrastination, and Attrition Intentions
Authors: Nemtcan Efim , Sæle Rannveig Grøm , Gamst-Klaussen Thor , Svartdal Frode
Published: May 2022

Why do students leave universities? The current study addresses the problem of academic attrition from the perspective of students’ intentions. Specifically, we focus on the roles of academic self-efficacy and procrastination in exploring their relationships with attrition intentions. Based on existing research, we expected a negative relationship between academic self-efficacy and attrition intentions, with procrastination as a possible mediator. Furthermore, it was expected that this relationship would differ depending on the type of attrition (i.e., drop-out, transfer university, transfer study field). These hypotheses were investigated among Norwegian students in a questionnaire study (N = 693). Results showed that procrastination partially mediated the relationship between academic self-efficacy and three attrition intentions categories. Although procrastination was a significant mediator of self-efficacy for all types of intentions, the sizes of the direct and indirect effects were different. We conclude that academic procrastination is important in understanding the relationship between students’ self-efficacy beliefs and attrition intentions.
Future Identity as a Support for College Motivation and Success
Authors: Destin Mesmin , Silverman David M. , Braslow Matthew D.
Published: May 2022

Many postsecondary education institutions in the United States struggle to effectively support high levels of academic achievement and college completion among their students. This is especially true at less selective and online colleges and universities that are understudied but serve an increasing number of students. Psychological factors may play an important role in promoting positive student outcomes during the college years. Two randomized controlled experiments including online university students focused on the potential influence of opportunities for students to reflect upon theirfuture identitiesor ideas about their lives in the years to come. In Study 1 (N= 1,042), a course activity designed to engage students’ future identities showed positive effects on course grades and persistence in college during the next semester. In Study 2 (N= 2,515), a more rigorous design demonstrated the effects of activating future identities on specific motivational processes with positive consequences for academic outcomes. Together, the experiments suggest that educators and advisors should engage with how students imagine their futures in order to help support student success.
Bisphenol S Alters the Steroidome in the Preovulatory Follicle, Oviduct Fluid and Plasma in Ewes With Contrasted Metabolic Status
Authors: Téteau Ophélie , Liere Philippe , Pianos Antoine , Desmarchais Alice , Lasserre Olivier , Papillier Pascal , Vignault Claire , Lebachelier de la Riviere Marie-Emilie , Maillard Virginie , Binet Aurélien , Uzbekova Svetlana , Saint-Dizier Marie , Elis Sebastien
Published: May 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA), a plasticizer and endocrine disruptor, has been substituted by bisphenol S (BPS), a structural analogue that had already shown adverse effects on granulosa cell steroidogenesis. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of chronic exposure to BPS, a possible endocrine disruptor, on steroid hormones in the ovary, oviduct and plasma using the ewe as a model. Given the interaction between steroidogenesis and the metabolic status, the BPS effect was tested according to two diet groups. Eighty adult ewes were allotted to restricted (R) and well-fed (WF) groups, that were further subdivided into two subgroups. Ewes were exposed to 50 µg BPS/kg/day in their diet (R50 and WF50 groups) or were unexposed controls (R0 and WF0 groups). After at least 3 months of BPS exposure, preovulatory follicular fluid, oviduct fluid and plasma were collected and steroid hormones were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). A deleterious effect of restricted diet on the volume of oviduct fluid and numbers of pre-ovulatory follicles was observed. Exposure to BPS impaired estradiol concentrations in both follicular and oviduct fluids of well-fed ewes and progesterone, estradiol and estrone concentrations in plasma of restricted ewes. In addition, a significant interaction between metabolic status and BPS exposure was observed for seven steroids, including estradiol. In conclusion, BPS acts in ewes as an endocrine disruptor with differential actions according to metabolic status.
Case Report: Hypoglycemia Due to Metastatic Insulinoma in Insulin-Dependent Type 2 Diabetes Successfully Treated With 177 Lu-DOTATATE
Authors: Kumar Shejil , Melek Mariah , Rohl Peter
Published: May 2022

We describe a 96-year-old man with insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes mellitus who, despite insulin cessation, presented with recurrent hypoglycemia associated with confirmed inappropriate endogenous hyperinsulinemia. 68Ga-DOTATATE-PET/CT scans demonstrated increased uptake in the pancreatic tail with multiple large intensely active liver metastases. Liver biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of well-differentiated metastatic neuroendocrine tumor. He was unsuitable for surgical resection and long-acting somatostatin analog therapy was ineffective. Subsequent management with four cycles of Lutate [177-Lutetium-DOTA0-Tyr3-octreotate (177Lu-DOTATATE)] resulted in resolution of hypoglycemia and ongoing clinical, biochemical, and radiological response 6 years after. This case is unique due to not only the paradoxical entity of insulinoma in insulin-dependent diabetes but also the positive sustained outcome after 177Lu-DOTATATE, given that unresectable metastatic insulinoma carries a poor prognosis. We review published cases of metastatic insulinoma in patients with diabetes mellitus as well as the literature to-date investigating efficacy and safety of Lutate therapy in metastatic insulinoma.
Layered P2-NaxMn3/4Ni1/4O2 Cathode Materials For Sodium-Ion Batteries: Synthesis, Electrochemistry and Influence of Ambient Storage
Authors: Pfeiffer Lukas Fridolin , Jobst Nicola , Gauckler Cornelius , Lindén Mika , Marinaro Mario , Passerini Stefano , Wohlfahrt-Mehrens Margret , Axmann Peter
Published: May 2022

Sodium-ion batteries promise efficient, affordable and sustainable electrical energy storage that avoids critical raw materials such as lithium, cobalt and copper. In this work, a manganese-based, cobalt-free, layered NaxMn3/4Ni1/4O2 cathode active material for sodium-ion batteries is developed. A synthesis phase diagram was developed by varying the sodium content x and the calcination temperature. The calcination process towards a phase pure P2-Na2/3Mn3/4Ni1/4O2 material was investigated in detail using in-situ XRD and TGA-DSC-MS. The resulting material was characterized with ICP-OES, XRD and SEM. A stacking fault model to account for anisotropic broadening of (10l) reflexes in XRD is presented and discussed with respect to the synthesis process. In electrochemical half-cells, P2-Na2/3Mn3/4Ni1/4O2 delivers an attractive initial specific discharge capacity beyond 200 mAh g−1, when cycled between 4.3 and 1.5 V. The structural transformation during cycling was studied using operando XRD to gain deeper insights into the reaction mechanism. The influence of storage under humid conditions on the crystal structure, particle surface and electrochemistry was investigated using model experiments. Due to the broad scope of this work, raw material questions, fundamental investigations and industrially relevant production processes are addressed.
Impact of Green Logistics Performance on China’s Export Trade to Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Countries
Authors: Fan Mingyue , Wu Zhiying , Qalati Sikandar Ali , He Di , Hussain Rana Yassir
Published: May 2022

Based on the logistics performance index proposed by the World Bank, this study uses the entropy method to construct the green logistics performance index and empirically analyzes the impact of the green logistics performance of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) countries on China’s export trade using the expanded trade gravity model. The results show that the green logistics performance of RCEP countries can significantly promote China’s export trade to RCEP countries, and various measures to improve green logistics performance have different impacts on China’s export trade. The order of influence degree is the efficiency of a customs clearance procedure, the convenience of arranging freight with a competitive price, the timeliness of cargo transportation, the ability and quality of logistics service, and the intensity of CO2 and N2O emission. To promote China’s export trade, we should give full play to the functions of the customs of various countries and improve the efficiency of regulatory procedures. The regression results reveal that GLPI has a significant and positive impact on export trade RCEP countries, as indicated by the coefficient value of 2.887 at a 1% level of significance. The component factors of GLPI also positively and significantly influence the export trade, but carbon emissions and nitrogen emissions proved to be negative. This study establish with RCEP countries, promote the layout of logistics transport routes among RCEP members, and enhance the popularity of green logistics services; Give full play to the positive role of regional economic organizations and mechanisms, and promote green logistics cooperation between RCEP member countries with high and low GLPI; Through logistics planning, logistics policy and advanced low-carbon logistics technology, promote sustainable development of green logistics.
Hyperparasitic Fungi on Black Mildews (Meliolales, Ascomycota): Hidden Fungal Diversity in the Tropics
Authors: Bermúdez-Cova Miguel A. , Cruz-Laufer Armando J. , Piepenbring Meike
Published: May 2022

Hyperparasitism on plant-parasitic fungi is a widespread but rarely studied phenomenon. Here, for the first time, we compile in a checklist information provided by peer-reviewed literature for fungi growing on colonies of black mildews (Meliolales, Ascomycota), a species-rich group of tropical and subtropical plant-parasitic microfungi. The checklist contains information on 189 species of contact-biotrophic microfungi in 82 genera. They belong to seven morphological groups: dematiaceous hyphomycetes, moniliaceous hyphomycetes, pycnidioid, perithecioid, catathecioid, and apothecioid fungi. By the fact that species accumulation curves do not reach saturation for any tropical country, it is evident that the knowledge of the diversity of hyperparasitic fungi on Meliolales is incomplete. A network analysis of records of hyperparasitic fungi, their host fungi and host plants shows that genera of hyperparasitic fungi are generalists concerning genera of Meliolales. However, most species of hyperparasitic fungi are restricted to meliolalean hosts. In addition to hyperparasitic fungi, diverse further microorganisms use meliolalean colonies as ecological niche. Systematic positions of most species are unknown because DNA sequence data are lacking for species of fungi hyperparasitic on Meliolales. We discuss the specific challenges of obtaining DNA sequence data from hyperparasitic fungi. In order to better understand the diversity, evolution and biology of hyperparasitic fungi, it is necessary to increase sampling efforts and to undertake further morphological, molecular, and ecological studies.
Determinants of Antenatal Care Utilization Among Childbearing Women in Burkina Faso
Authors: Badolo Hermann , Bado Aristide Romaric , Hien Hervé , De Allegri Manuela , Susuman Appunni Sathiya
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Antenatal care (ANC) is one of the pillars of maternal and child health programs aimed at preventing and reducing maternal and child morbidity and mortality. This study aims to identify the factors associated with ANC use, considering both health care demand and supply factors in the single analysis.

Methods

We used data from the endline survey conducted to evaluate the impact of the performance-based financing (PBF) program in Burkina Faso in 2017. This study was a blocked-by-region cluster random trial using a pre–post comparison design. The sample was derived in a three-stage cluster sampling procedure. Data collection for the endline surveys included a household survey and a facility-based survey. Women of childbearing age who gave birth at least once in the past 2 years prior to this survey and residing in the study area for more than 6 months were included in this study. Multilevel statistical techniques were used to examine individual and contextual effects related to health care demand and supply simultaneously and thus measure the relative contribution of the different levels to explaining factors associated with ANC use.

Results

The working women were five times [odd ratio (OR): 5.41, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 4.36–6.70] more likely to report using ANC services than the women who were not working (OR: 5.41, 95% CI 4.36–6.70). Women living in a community with high poverty concentration were 32.0% (OR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.50–0.91) less likely to use ANC services than those in a community with low poverty concentration. Women living in a community with a medium concentration of women's modern contraceptive use were almost two times (OR: 1.88, 95% CI 1.70–2.12) more likely to use ANC services than those living in a community with a low concentration of women's modern contraceptive use. Women living in the health area where the level of ANC quality was high were three times (OR: 2.96, 95% CI 1.46–6.12) more likely to use ANC services than those in the health area where the ANC quality was low.

Conclusion

Policies that increase the opportunity for improving the average ANC quality at the health facility (HF), the level of women's modern contraceptive use and women employment would likely be effective in increasing the frequency of use of antenatal services.
Community Structure of Benthic Macrofauna and the Ecological Quality of Mangrove Wetlands in Hainan, China
Authors: Li Ping , Liu Jingli , Bai Jiankun , Tong Yifan , Meng Yuchen , Diao Xiaoping , Pan Ke , Zhu Xiaoshan , Lin Guanghui
Published: May 2022

Few studies have systematically assessed the ecological status of mangrove wetlands following the stress of anthropogenic activities in China. This study investigated the spatial and seasonal distribution of benthic macroinvertebrate communities and assessed the ecological quality of mangrove habitats on an island scale in Hainan, China (containing the third largest mangrove area of China and the highest mangrove species richness). For the benthic macrofauna community structure, a total of 102 macrobenthic taxa belonging to 50 families were identified, with Crustaceans, Molluscs, Polychaetes, and Oligochaeta having relative abundances of 52.3%, 36.1%, 10.8%, and 0.8%, respectively. Decapoda and Gastropoda dominated the benthic community abundance. Non-metric multidimensional scaling and an analysis of similarities revealed significantly different macroinvertebrate assemblages among the regions during the two seasons. The South mangroves had the lowest macrofauna species numbers, biodiversity, richness, and abundance. The macrofaunal species richness, Shannon index, Margalef index, abundance, and biomass markedly affected by region and season. As indicated by the biotic indices AMBI (AZTI’s Marine Biotic Index) and M-AMBI, more than half of the mangrove habitats on Hainan Island were slightly to heavily disturbed and had poor to moderate ecological quality. Our results recommend long-term monitoring for evaluating the quality status of mangrove wetlands and avoiding extensive land-use conversion of mangroves. Holistic approaches considering ecological characteristics and combining information on both floral and faunal functionality would contribute to the effective management and conservation of mangroves in disturbed areas.
Effects of Nitrogen and Light Intensity on the Astaxanthin Accumulation in Motile Cells of Haematococcus pluvialis
Authors: Li Feng , Cai Minggang , Wu Yanqi , Lian Qingsheng , Qian Zuyuan , Luo Jiansen , Zhang Yulei , Zhang Ning , Li Changling , Huang Xianghu
Published: May 2022

The dietary supplementation of Haematococcus pluvialis is a natural, safe, and sustainable method for fish pigmentation. However, astaxanthin-rich H. pluvialis cysts have a poor effect in pigmenting salmonid flesh due to their rigid and thick cell wall. H. pluvialis thin-walled motile cells have recently attracted attention due to their potential advantages in maintaining compound stability, easy digestion, enhancing the bioavailability of carotenoids, and reducing production costs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of various nitrogen concentrations and light intensities on astaxanthin production in motile cells. We first investigated the effect of four different concentrations of nitrogen on astaxanthin accumulation in motile cells. According to the results, the motile cells had the highest astaxanthin concentration and content under the 0 N condition. Then, we compared the differences in astaxanthin production in motile cells under three different light intensities under 0 N conditions. The results showed that after four days of treatment, the protoplasts of the motile cells in the medium light (ML) group and the high light (HL) group had distinct granularity. The cell mortality rate in the HL group reached more than 15%, which was significantly higher than that in the low light (LL) and ML groups, indicating that high light intensity was not suitable for inducing motile cells to accumulate astaxanthin. There were no significant differences between the LL and ML groups in astaxanthin content, motile cells percentage, and cell mortality rate. Considering these indicators, we recommended inducing motile cells to produce astaxanthin under low light conditions because it is more economical in terms of electricity consumption. This study added to the knowledge that nitrogen and light affects the accumulation of astaxanthin in H. pluvialis motile cells. The results would help determine the optimal nitrogen and light conditions in astaxanthin production from motile cells.
Metformin Promotes Mechanical Stretch-Induced Skin Regeneration by Improving the Proliferative Activity of Skin-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Xiong Shaoheng , Liu Wei , Song Yajuan , Du Jing , Wang Tong , Zhang Yu , Huang Zhaosong , He Qiang , Dong Chen , Yu Zhou , Ma Xianjie
Published: May 2022

Background

Skin expansion by mechanical stretch is an essential and widely used treatment for tissue defects in plastic and reconstructive surgery; however, the regenerative capacity of mechanically stretched skin limits clinical treatment results. Here, we propose a strategy to enhance the regenerative ability of mechanically stretched skin by topical application of metformin.

Methods

We established a mechanically stretched scalp model in male rats (n = 20), followed by their random division into two groups: metformin-treated (n = 10) and control (n = 10) groups. We measured skin thickness, collagen volume fraction, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis to analyze the effects of topical metformin on mechanically stretched skin, and immunofluorescence staining was performed to determine the contents of epidermal stem cells and hair follicle bulge stem cells in mechanically stretched skin. Western blot was performed to detect the protein expression of skin-derived stem cell markers.

Results

Compared with the control group, metformin treatment was beneficial to mechanical stretch-induced skin regeneration by increasing the thicknesses of epidermis (57.27 ± 10.24 vs. 31.07 ± 9.06 μm, p < 0.01) and dermis (620.2 ± 86.17 vs. 402.1 ± 22.46 μm, p < 0.01), number of blood vessels (38.30 ± 6.90 vs. 17.00 ± 3.10, p < 0.01), dermal collagen volume fraction (60.48 ± 4.47% vs. 41.28 ± 4.14%, p < 0.01), and number of PCNA+, Aurora B+, and pH3+ cells. Additionally, we observed significant elevations in the number of proliferating hair follicle bulge stem cells [cytokeratin (CK)15+/proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)+] (193.40 ± 35.31 vs. 98.25 ± 23.47, p < 0.01) and epidermal stem cells (CK14+/PCNA+) (83.00 ± 2.38 vs. 36.38 ± 8.96, p < 0.01) in the metformin-treated group, and western blot results confirmed significant increases in CK14 and CK15 expression following metformin treatment.

Conclusion

Topical application of metformin enhanced the regenerative capacity of mechanically stretched skin, with the underlying mechanism possibly attributed to improvements in the proliferative activity of skin-derived stem cells.
Intermittent Fasting to the Eye: A New Dimension Involved in Physiological and Pathological Changes
Authors: Feng Jiaqing , Zhang Shijiao , Li Wenning , Bai Tianle , Liu Yulin , Chang Xingyu
Published: May 2022

Intermittent fasting (IF) is gaining popularity as a therapeutic dietary strategy that regulates metabolism and can alter the development of metabolic disorders. An increasing amount of research has connected ocular diseases to IF and discovered that it has a direct and indirect effect on the eye’s physiological structure and pathological alterations. This article summarizes the progress of research on IF in regulating the physiological structures of the ocular vasculature, the anterior segment of the eye, the retina, and the choroid. We explored the therapeutic potential of IF for various common ocular diseases. In the future, a comprehensive study into the fundamental processes of IF will provide a direct and rigorous approach to eye disease prevention and therapy.
Candidate Molecular Compounds as Potential Indicators for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Authors: Asiedu Kofi
Published: May 2022

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is the leading cause of dry eye disease throughout the world. Studies have shown that several molecules in meibum, including but not limited to interleukins, amino acids, cadherins, eicosanoids, carbohydrates, and proteins, are altered in meibomian gland dysfunction compared with healthy normal controls. Some of these molecules such as antileukoproteinase, phospholipase A2, and lactoperoxidase also show differences in concentrations in tears between meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye disease, further boosting hopes as candidate biomarkers. MGD is a complex condition, making it difficult to distinguish patients using single biomarkers. Therefore, multiple biomarkers forming a multiplex panel may be required. This review aims to describe molecules comprising lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates with the potential of serving various capacities as monitoring, predictive, diagnostic, and risk biomarkers for meibomian gland dysfunction.
Association of HCV Prior Infection and Unprotected Sex on Subsequent HIV Acquisition Risk in the Era of Treatment as Prevention
Authors: Chen Fangfang , Tang Houlin , Han Juan , Li Dongmin , Li Peilong , Wang Ning , Han Mengjie , Wang Lan , Wang Lu
Published: May 2022

Backgrounds

Little was known about the impact of HCV prior infection on HIV transmission and acquisition. We aimed to explore whether HCV prior infection and its interactions with unprotected sex affected HIV acquisition.

Methods

This study was conducted among HIV heterosexual serodiscordant couples whose index cases were receiving treatment during 2008–2014 in Zhumadian. At baseline, we collected information on demographics and medical history of ART use, CD4 count, and HIV viral load for index partners, and also HIV and HCV status for non-index partners. For each year's visit, we followed up on sexual behaviors among couples in the recent year and HIV seroconversion of non-index partners. Analyses of the Cox model and synergistic interaction were performed.

Results

We identified 81 HIV seroconversions over 18,370.39 person-years, with the overall HIV seroconversion rate of 0.44 per 100 person-years. Couples, whose index cases were aged 50 years and above, had a baseline viral load >400 copies per ml and no AIDS-defining illness, and newly-initiated ART in the study period had a higher risk of HIV seroconversion. Unprotected sex and HCV prior infection showed a synergistic association with HIV acquisition risk (RERI = 3.65, SI = 0.48, AP = 2.24).

Conclusion

Unprotected sex and HCV infection were independent risk factors associated with HIV acquisition. The coexistence of them might have a synergistic effect on the risk which needs further research.
c-di-AMP Accumulation Regulates Growth, Metabolism, and Immunogenicity of Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Ning Huanhuan , Liang Xuan , Xie Yanling , Bai Lu , Zhang Wei , Wang Lifei , Kang Jian , Lu Yanzhi , Ma Yanling , Bai Guangchun , Bai Yinlan
Published: May 2022

Cyclic dimeric adenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP) is a ubiquitous second messenger of bacteria involved in diverse physiological processes as well as host immune responses. MSMEG_2630 is a c-di-AMP phosphodiesterase (cnpB) of Mycobacterium smegmatis, which is homologous to Mycobacterium tuberculosis Rv2837c. In this study, cnpB-deleted (ΔcnpB), -complemented (ΔcnpB::C), and -overexpressed (ΔcnpB::O) strains of M. smegmatis were constructed to investigate the role of c-di-AMP in regulating mycobacterial physiology and immunogenicity. This study provides more precise evidence that elevated c-di-AMP level resulted in smaller colonies, shorter bacteria length, impaired growth, and inhibition of potassium transporter in M. smegmatis. This is the first study to report that elevated c-di-AMP level could inhibit biofilm formation and induce porphyrin accumulation in M. smegmatis by regulating associated gene expressions, which may have effects on drug resistance and virulence of mycobacterium. Moreover, the cnpB-deleted strain with an elevated c-di-AMP level could induce enhanced Th1 immune responses after M. tuberculosis infection. Further, the pathological changes and the bacteria burden in ΔcnpB group were comparable with the wild-type M. smegmatis group against M. tuberculosis venous infection in the mouse model. Our findings enhanced the understanding of the physiological role of c-di-AMP in mycobacterium, and M. smegmatis cnpB-deleted strain with elevated c-di-AMP level showed the potential for a vaccine against tuberculosis.
Relationships Between Plasminogen-Binding M-Protein and Surface Enolase for Human Plasminogen Acquisition and Activation in Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Ayinuola Yetunde A. , Tjia-Fleck Sheiny , Readnour Bradley M. , Liang Zhong , Ayinuola Olawole , Paul Lake N. , Lee Shaun W. , Fischetti Vincent A. , Ploplis Victoria A. , Castellino Francis J.
Published: May 2022

The proteolytic activity of human plasmin (hPm) is utilized by various cells to provide a surface protease that increases the potential of cells to migrate and disseminate. Skin-trophic Pattern D strains of Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS), e.g., GAS isolate AP53, contain a surface M-protein (PAM) that directly and strongly interacts (Kd ~ 1 nM) with human host plasminogen (hPg), after which it is activated to hPm by a specific coinherited bacterial activator, streptokinase (SK2b), or by host activators. Another ubiquitous class of hPg binding proteins on GAS cells includes “moonlighting” proteins, such as the glycolytic enzyme, enolase (Sen). However, the importance of Sen in hPg acquisition, especially when PAM is present, has not been fully developed. Sen forms a complex with hPg on different surfaces, but not in solution. Isogenic AP53 cells with a targeted deletion of PAM do not bind hPg, but the surface expression of Sen is also greatly diminished upon deletion of the PAM gene, thus confounding this approach for defining the role of Sen. However, cells with point deletions in PAM that negate hPg binding, but fully express PAM and Sen, show that hPg binds weakly to Sen on GAS cells. Despite this, Sen does not stimulate hPg activation by SK2b, but does stimulate tissue-type plasminogen activator-catalyzed activation of hPg. These data demonstrate that PAM plays the dominant role as a functional hPg receptor in GAS cells that also contain surface enolase.
Ulva prolifera Polysaccharide–Manganese Alleviates Inflammation and Regulates Microbiota Composition in Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis Mice
Authors: Xue Haoran , Song Wei , Wang Zongling , Wang Qian
Published: May 2022

Manganese (Mn) deficiency exacerbates colitis symptoms, whereas diet supplemented with inorganic Mn merely maintains colon length in experimental colitis. In the present study, a new form of Mn, Ulva prolifera polysaccharide cheated-Mn (PMn) was used and its treatment effects on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis were investigated. Male C57BL/6 mice were orally administrated with 3.5% DSS to induce colitis. Then, the colitis mice were treated with PBS or PMn for 7 days. The results showed that PMn administration help retrieve the body weight loss and intestinal morphology damage, and alleviate apoptosis and inflammatory responses in colitis mice. Moreover, PMn administration decreased intestinal infiltration as indicated by decreased concentration of myeloperoxidase and eosinophil peroxidase. Importantly, PMn retrieved the increased abundance of Firmicutes and the decreased abundance of Bacteroidetes caused by DSS, suggested its beneficial roles in regulating microbiota composition in mice with colon inflammation. Gut microbiota composition at the genus level in the mice administrated with PMn was similar to those in control mice, whereas they were clearly distinct from DSS-treated mice. These results support the potential therapeutic role of PMn in the treatment of intestinal colitis and microbes may play critical roles in mediating its effects.
Structural Details of BH3 Motifs and BH3-Mediated Interactions: an Updated Perspective
Authors: Sora Valentina , Papaleo Elena
Published: May 2022

Apoptosis is a mechanism of programmed cell death crucial in organism development, maintenance of tissue homeostasis, and several pathogenic processes. The B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) protein family lies at the core of the apoptotic process, and the delicate balance between its pro- and anti-apoptotic members ultimately decides the cell fate. BCL2 proteins can bind with each other and several other biological partners through the BCL2 homology domain 3 (BH3), which has been also classified as a possible Short Linear Motif and whose distinctive features remain elusive even after decades of studies. Here, we aim to provide an updated overview of the structural features characterizing BH3s and BH3-mediated interactions (with a focus on human proteins), elaborating on the plasticity of BCL2 proteins and the motif properties. We also discussed the implication of these findings for the discovery of interactors of the BH3-binding groove of BCL2 proteins and the design of mimetics for therapeutic purposes.
Assessment of Brain Function in Patients With Cognitive Impairment Based on fNIRS and Gait Analysis
Authors: Wang Zehua , Ren Ke , Li Deyu , Lv Zeping , Li Xiang , He Xiaoli , Wang Daifa , Jiang Wenyu
Published: May 2022

Background

Early detection of mild cognitive impairment is crucial in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study aims to explore the changes in gait and brain co-functional connectivity between cognitively healthy and cognitively impaired groups under dual-task walking through the functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and gait analysis devices.

Method

This study used fNIRS device and gait analysis devices to collect the data of 54 older adults. According to the Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scales, the older adults were cognitively healthy (control group) and cognitively impaired (experimental group), of which 38 were in the control group and 16 were in the experimental group. The experiment was divided into a total of three sets of task experiments: a walking-only experiment, a dual-task walking-easy (DTW-easy) experiment, and a dual-task walking-difficult (DTW-difficult) experiment.

Main Result

For the cognitively impaired and cognitively healthy populations, there were no significant differences in overall functional connectivity, region of interest (ROI) connection strength, and gait performance during single-task walking between the two groups.Whereas the performances of DTW differed significantly from the single-task walking in terms of between-group variability of functional connectivity strength change values, and ROI connection strength change values in relation to the dual-task cost of gait. Finally, the cognitively impaired group was significantly more affected by DTW-difficult tasks than the cognitively healthy group.

Conclusion

This study provides a new approach to assist in the diagnosis of people with cognitive impairment and provides a new research pathway for the identification of cognitive impairment.