bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the Spatial Structure Conditions of Urban Underpass Tunnels’ Longitudinal Section on Drivers’ Physiological and Behavioral Comfort
Authors: Feng Zhongxiang , Yang Miaomiao , Du Yingjie , Xu Jin , Huang Congjun , Jiang Xu
Published: October 2021

To investigate the physiological and behavioral comfort of drivers traversing urban underpass tunnels with various spatial structure conditions, a driving simulator experiment was conducted using 3DMAX and SCANeRTM studio software. Three parameters, including the slope, slope length, and height of a tunnel, were selected as research objects to explore the optimal combination of structural parameters in urban underpass tunnels. The heart rate (HR), interbeat (RR) interval, speed, and lane centerline offset value were collected for 30 drivers. Then, a measurement model of the relationship among HR, RR interval, speed, lane centerline offset value, and structural parameters was established by using partial correlation analyses and the stepwise regression method. On this basis, a structural constraint model based on the drivers’ physiological and behavioral comfort thresholds was also constructed. The results show that the driver’s HR, RR interval, speed, and lane centerline offsets are significantly related to the tunnel height, slope, and slope length. More importantly, this paper not only analyzed the effects of various structural parameters on drivers’ physiology and behavior but also proposed an optimized combination of structural parameters based on drivers’ physiological and behavioral comfort. It can reasonably improve tunnel design in China, ensure tunnel traffic safety, and seek the maximum comfort of the driver in the driving process.
Adult-Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Symptoms Seem Not to Influence the Outcome of an Enhanced Agonist Opioid Treatment: A 30-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Maremmani Angelo G. I. , Rocco Pasqualina , Rocca Filippo Della , Perugi Giulio , Miccoli Mario , Maremmani Icro
Published: October 2021

The role of opioids and opioid medications in ADHD symptoms is still largely understudied. We tested the hypothesis that, in Heroin Use Disorder (HUD), when patients are treated with Agonist Opioid medications (AOT), treatment outcome is associated with the presence of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (A-ADHD) symptomatology. A retrospective cohort study of 130 HUD patients in Castelfranco Veneto, Italy, covering 30 years, was divided into two groups according to the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) score and compared them using demographic, clinical and pharmacological factors. Survival in treatment was studied by utilizing the available data for leaving treatment and relapsing into addictive behavior and for mortality during treatment as poor primary outcomes. Thirty-five HUD subjects (26.9%) were unlikely to have A-ADHD symptomatology, and 95 (73.1%) were likely to have it. Only current age and co-substance use at treatment entry differed significantly between groups. Censored patients were 29 (82.9%) for HUD patients and 70 (73.9%) for A-ADHD/HUD patients (Mantel-Cox test = 0.66 p = 0.415). There were no significant linear trends indicative of a poorer outcome with the presence of A-ADHD after adjustment for demographic, clinical and pharmacological factors. Conclusions: ADHD symptomatology does not seem to exert any influence on the retention in AOT of HUD patients.
Concentrations, Source Characteristics, and Health Risk Assessment of Toxic Heavy Metals in PM2.5 in a Plateau City (Kunming) in Southwest China
Authors: Han Xinyu , Li Shuai , Li Zezheng , Pang Xiaochen , Bao Yuzhai , Shi Jianwu , Ning Ping
Published: October 2021

To explore the mass concentration levels and health risks of heavy metals in the air in dense traffic environments, PM2.5 samples were collected at three sites in the city of Kunming in April and October 2013, and January and May 2014. Ten heavy metals––V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd and Pb––were analyzed by ICP–MS, and the results showed PM2.5 concentrations significantly higher in spring and winter than in summer and autumn, especially for Zn and Pb. The concentration of heavy metals on working days is significantly higher, indicating that vehicle emissions are significant contributors. An enrichment factor analysis showed that Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd and Pb come mainly from anthropogenic sources, while V and Co may be both anthropogenic and natural. The correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) showed that Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb mainly come from vehicles emissions and metallurgical industries; Cr and Mn, from vehicles emissions and road dust; and As, mainly from coal combustion. The health risk assessment shows that the non-carcinogenic risk thresholds of the heavy metals in PM2.5 to children and adult men and women are all less than 1. The carcinogenic risk of Cr for men and women in traffic-intensive areas exceeds 10−4, reaching 1.64 × 10−4 and 1.4 × 10−4, respectively.
Role of the Purinergic P2Y2 Receptor in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Shihan Mazen , Novoyatleva Tatyana , Lehmeyer Thilo , Sydykov Akylbek , Schermuly Ralph T.
Published: October 2021

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), group 1 pulmonary hypertension (PH), is a fatal disease that is characterized by vasoconstriction, increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, and right heart failure. PAH can be described by abnormal vascular remodeling, hyperproliferation in the vasculature, endothelial cell dysfunction, and vascular tone dysregulation. The disease pathomechanisms, however, are as yet not fully understood at the molecular level. Purinergic receptors P2Y within the G-protein-coupled receptor family play a major role in fluid shear stress transduction, proliferation, migration, and vascular tone regulation in systemic circulation, but less is known about their contribution in PAH. Hence, studies that focus on purinergic signaling are of great importance for the identification of new therapeutic targets in PAH. Interestingly, the role of P2Y2 receptors has not yet been sufficiently studied in PAH, whereas the relevance of other P2Ys as drug targets for PAH was shown using specific agonists or antagonists. In this review, we will shed light on P2Y receptors and focus more on the P2Y2 receptor as a potential novel player in PAH and as a new therapeutic target for disease management.
Challenges and Research Priorities for Dementia Care in Malaysia from the Perspective of Health and Allied Health Professionals
Authors: Rosli Roshaslina , Goodson Michaela , Tan Maw Pin , Mohan Devi , Reidpath Daniel , Allotey Pascal , Kamaruzzaman Shahrul , Chin Ai-Vyrn , Robinson Louise
Published: October 2021

Few studies to date have evaluated dementia care in Malaysia, and the focus of studies has primarily been on epidemiological and laboratory research. In this study, we aimed to identify potential challenges for the delivery of dementia care in Malaysia and priorities for research and enhancing existing dementia care. This study used thematic analysis to evaluate the open and focus group workshop discussions guided by semi-structured questions. Triangulation of the collected data (sticky notes, collated field notes, and transcripts of discussions) was achieved through stakeholder consensus agreement during a workshop held in 2017. Five main themes as priorities for dementia care were identified: (1) availability of a valued multi-disciplinary care service, (2) accessibility of training to provide awareness, (3) the functionality of the governance in establishing regulation and policy to empower care services, (4) perceived availability and accessibility of research data, and (5) influence of cultural uniqueness. The findings of this study seek to enhance existing dementia care in Malaysia but have potential application for other low and middle-income countries with a similar social and health care set up. The constructed relationship between themes also tries to tackle the challenges in a more efficient and effective manner, as none of these aforementioned issues are standalone challenges. In addition, we demonstrated how a carefully constructed workshop with defined aims and objectives can provide a useful analysis tool to evaluate health and social care challenges in a multidisciplinary forum.
Extraction and Visualization of Tourist Attraction Semantics from Travel Blogs
Authors: Haris Erum , Gan Keng Hoon
Published: October 2021

Travel blogs are a significant source for modeling human travelling behavior and characterizing tourist destinations owing to the presence of rich geospatial and thematic content. However, the bulk of unstructured text requires extensive processing for an efficient transformation of data to knowledge. Existing works have studied tourist places, but results lack a coherent outline and visualization of the semantic knowledge associated with tourist attractions. Hence, this work proposes place semantics extraction based on a fusion of content analysis and natural language processing (NLP) techniques. A weighted-sum equation model is then employed to construct a points of interest graph (POI graph) that integrates extracted semantics with conventional frequency-based weighting of tourist spots and routes. The framework offers determination and visualization of massive blog text in a comprehensible manner to facilitate individuals in travel decision-making as well as tourism managers to devise effective destination planning and management strategies.
SDG Indicator 11.3.1 and Secondary Cities: An Analysis and Assessment
Authors: Laituri Melinda , Davis Danielle , Sternlieb Faith , Galvin Kathleen
Published: October 2021

Secondary cities are rapidly growing areas in low- and middle-income countries that lack data, planning, and essential services for sustainable development. Their rapid, informal growth patterns mean secondary cities are often data-poor and under-resourced, impacting the ability of governments to target development efforts, respond to emergencies, and design sustainable futures. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 focuses on inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements. SDG Indicator (SDGI) 11.3.1 calculates the ratio of land consumption rate to population growth rate to enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization. Our paper compares three cities—Denpasar, Indonesia; Kharkiv, Ukraine; and Mekelle, Ethiopia—that were part of the Secondary Cities (2C) Initiative of the U.S. Department of State, Office of the Geographer and Global Issues to assess SDGI 11.3.1. The 2C Initiative focused on field-based participatory mapping for data generation to assist city planning. Urban form and population data are critical for calculating and visually representing this ratio. We examine the spatial extent of each city to assess land use efficiency (LUE) and track changes in urban form over time. With limited demographic and spatial data for secondary cities, we speculate whether SDGI 11.3.1 is useful for small- and medium-sized cities.
The Role of Mitochondria in Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease and Its Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqin , Agborbesong Ewud , Li Xiaogang
Published: October 2021

Mitochondria are heterogeneous and highly dynamic organelles, playing critical roles in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, metabolic modulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and cell differentiation and death. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been recognized as a contributor in many diseases. The kidney is an organ enriched in mitochondria and with high energy demand in the human body. Recent studies have been focusing on how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of different forms of kidney diseases, including acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). AKI has been linked to an increased risk of developing CKD. AKI and CKD have a broad clinical syndrome and a substantial impact on morbidity and mortality, encompassing various etiologies and representing important challenges for global public health. Renal mitochondrial disorders are a common feature of diverse forms of AKI and CKD, which result from defects in mitochondrial structure, dynamics, and biogenesis as well as crosstalk of mitochondria with other organelles. Persistent dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis in AKI and CKD affects diverse cellular pathways, leading to an increase in renal microvascular loss, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and eventually renal failure. It is important to understand the cellular and molecular events that govern mitochondria functions and pathophysiology in AKI and CKD, which should facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies. This review provides an overview of the molecular insights of the mitochondria and the specific pathogenic mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in the progression of AKI, CKD, and AKI to CKD transition. We also discuss the possible beneficial effects of mitochondrial-targeted therapeutic agents for the treatment of mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated AKI and CKD, which may translate into therapeutic options to ameliorate renal injury and delay the progression of these kidney diseases.
NO Synthesis in Immune-Challenged Locust Hemocytes and Potential Signaling to the CNS
Authors: Bergmann Stella , Gerhards Jan-Phillipp , Schmitz Anne , Becker Stefanie C. , Stern Michael
Published: October 2021

Similar to vertebrates, insects are exposed to a broad variety of pathogens. The innate insect immune system provides several response mechanisms such as phagocytosis, melanization, and the synthesis of antimicrobial or cytotoxic compounds. The cytotoxic nitric oxide (NO), which is also a neurotransmitter, is involved in the response to bacterial infections in various insects but has rarely been shown to be actually produced in hemocytes. We quantified the NO production in hemocytes of Locusta migratoria challenged with diverse immune stimuli by immunolabeling the by-product of NO synthesis, citrulline. Whereas in untreated adult locusts less than 5% of circulating hemocytes were citrulline-positive, the proportion rose to over 40% after 24 hours post injection of heat-inactivated bacteria. Hemocytes surrounded and melanized bacteria in locust nymphs by forming capsules. Such sessile hemocytes also produced NO. As in other insect species, activated hemocytes were found dorsally, close to the heart. In addition, we frequently observed citrulline-positive hemocytes and capsules near the ventral nerve cord. Neurites in the CNS of sterile locust embryos responded with elevation of the second messenger cGMP after contact with purified adult NO-producing hemocytes as revealed by immunofluorescence. We suggest that hemocytes can mediate a response in the CNS of an infected animal via the NO/cGMP signaling pathway.
The Person’s Care Requires a Sex and Gender Approach
Authors: Campesi Ilaria , Montella Andrea , Seghieri Giuseppe , Franconi Flavia
Published: October 2021

There is an urgent need to optimize pharmacology therapy with a consideration of high interindividual variability and economic costs. A sex–gender approach (which considers men, women, and people of diverse gender identities) and the assessment of differences in sex and gender promote global health, avoiding systematic errors that generate results with low validity. Care for people should consider the single individual and his or her past and present life experiences, as well as his or her relationship with care providers. Therefore, intersectoral and interdisciplinary studies are urgently required. It is desirable to create teams made up of men and women to meet the needs of both. Finally, it is also necessary to build an alliance among regulatory and ethic authorities, statistics, informatics, the healthcare system and providers, researchers, the pharmaceutical and diagnostic industries, decision makers, and patients to overcome the gender gap in medicine and to take real care of a person in an appropriate manner.
The Role of Microbial Factors in Prostate Cancer Development—An Up-to-Date Review
Authors: Garbas Karolina , Zapała Piotr , Zapała Łukasz , Radziszewski Piotr
Published: October 2021

Up-to-date studies emphasize the role of human urinary and intestinal microbiome in maintaining urogenital health. Both microbial flora and sexually transmitted pathogens may affect metabolic or immune mechanisms and consequently promote or inhibit prostate carcinogenesis. Hereby, we review the most current evidence regarding the microbial factors and their link to prostate cancer. We conducted a literature search up to December 2020. The microbial impact on prostate cancer initiation and progression is complex. The proposed mechanisms of action include induction of chronic inflammatory microenvironment (Propionibacterium spp., sexually-transmitted pathogens) and direct dysregulation of cell cycle (Helicobacter pylori, Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus- KSHV, human papilloma virus 18- HPV18). Suppression of immune cell expression and downregulating immune-associated genes are also observed (Gardnerella vaginalis). Additionally, the impact of the gut microbiome proved relevant in promoting tumorigenesis (Bacteroides massiliensis). Nevertheless, certain microbes appear to possess anti-tumor properties (Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas spp.), such as triggering a robust immune response and apoptotic cancer cell death. The role of microbial factors in prostate cancer development is an emerging field that merits further studies. In the future, translating microbial research into clinical action may prove helpful in predicting diagnosis and potential outcomes of the disease.
Heart Failure in Patients with Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chen Shi , Chen Liang , Duru Firat , Hu Shengshou
Published: October 2021

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a rare inherited cardiomyopathy characterized as fibro-fatty replacement, and a common cause for sudden cardiac death in young athletes. Development of heart failure (HF) has been an under-recognized complication of ACM for a long time. The current clinical management guidelines for HF in ACM progression have nowadays been updated. Thus, a comprehensive review for this great achievement in our understanding of HF in ACM is necessary. In this review, we aim to describe the research progress on epidemiology, clinical characteristics, risk stratification and therapeutics of HF in ACM.
Shared Care and Virtual Clinics for Glaucoma in a Hospital Setting
Authors: Simons Anne-Sophie , Vercauteren Julie , Barbosa-Breda João , Stalmans Ingeborg
Published: October 2021

Glaucoma patients require lifelong management, and the prevalence of glaucoma is expected to increase, resulting in capacity problems in many hospital eye departments. New models of care delivery are needed to offer requisite capacity. This review evaluates two alternative schemes for glaucoma care within a hospital, i.e., shared care (SC) and virtual clinics (VCs), whereby non-medical staff are entrusted with more responsibilities, and compares these schemes with the “traditional” ophthalmologist-led outpatient service (standard care). A literature search was conducted in three large bibliographic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Trip), and the abstracts from the prior five annual meetings of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology were consulted. Twenty-nine were included in the review (14 on SC and 15 on VCs). Patients with low risk of vision loss were considered suitable for these approaches. Among the non-medical staff, optometrists were the most frequently involved. The quality of both schemes was good and improved with the non-medical staff being trained in glaucoma care. No evidence was found on patients feeling disadvantaged by the lack of a doctor visit. Both schemes increased the hospital’s efficiency. Both SC and VCs are promising approaches to tackle the upcoming capacity problems of hospital-based glaucoma care.
Glycation and Glycosylation in Cardiovascular Remodeling: Focus on Advanced Glycation End Products and O-Linked Glycosylations as Glucose-Related Pathogenetic Factors and Disease Markers
Authors: Dozio Elena , Massaccesi Luca , Corsi Romanelli Massimiliano Marco
Published: October 2021

Glycation and glycosylation are non-enzymatic and enzymatic reactions, respectively, of glucose, glucose metabolites, and other reducing sugars with different substrates, such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Increased availability of glucose is a recognized risk factor for the onset and progression of diabetes-mellitus-associated disorders, among which cardiovascular diseases have a great impact on patient mortality. Both advanced glycation end products, the result of non-enzymatic glycation of substrates, and O-linked-N-Acetylglucosaminylation, a glycosylation reaction that is controlled by O-N-AcetylGlucosamine (GlcNAc) transferase (OGT) and O-GlcNAcase (OGA), have been shown to play a role in cardiovascular remodeling. In this review, we aim (1) to summarize the most recent data regarding the role of glycation and O-linked-N-Acetylglucosaminylation as glucose-related pathogenetic factors and disease markers in cardiovascular remodeling, and (2) to discuss potential common mechanisms linking these pathways to the dysregulation and/or loss of function of different biomolecules involved in this field.
Effect of Age on Innate and Adaptive Immunity in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Cham Lamin B. , Pahus Marie Høst , Grønhøj Kristoffer , Olesen Rikke , Ngo Hien , Monrad Ida , Kjolby Mads , Tolstrup Martin , Gunst Jesper Damsgaard , Søgaard Ole S.
Published: October 2021

An effective but balanced cellular and inflammatory immune response may limit the severity of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), whereas uncontrolled inflammation leads to disease progression. Older age is associated with higher risk of COVID-19 and a worse outcome, but the underlying immunological mechanisms for this age-related difference are not clear. We investigated the impact of age on viral replication, inflammation, and innate and adaptive cellular immune responses in 205 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. During the early symptomatic phase of COVID-19, we found that patients above 65 years had significantly higher viral load, higher levels of proinflammatory markers, and inadequate mobilization and activation of monocytes, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, and CD8 T cells compared to those below 65 years. Our study points toward age-related deficiencies in the innate immune cellular response to SARS-CoV-2 as a potential cause of poorly controlled viral replication and inflammation during the early symptom phase and subsequent disease progression.
Sex Differences in Age-Related Physical Changes among Community-Dwelling Adults
Authors: Okabe Takuhiro , Suzuki Makoto , Goto Hiroshi , Iso Naoki , Cho Kilchoon , Hirata Keisuke , Shimizu Junichi
Published: October 2021

The prevalence of physical functioning limitations is positively correlated with age in both men and women. However, whether the appearance of deterioration differs depending on physical function and sex remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the modes of age-related changes in physical function and sex differences in middle-aged and older adults. This study comprised 124 (46 men and 78 women) healthy adults aged 30 years or older and examined gender differences in physical function. The results of this study showed that one-leg standing time had the highest rate of age-related decline in both men and women, followed by knee extension strength, skeletal muscle mass, the 5 m walking test, and the timed up and go test. The sex-specific points showed a high rate of decline in trunk forward bending in men and a high rate of decline in forced expiratory volume (1 s) and gradual rate of decline in the bone area ratio in women. After middle age, it is desirable to start monitoring and training balance, muscle function, and walking. Men require early intervention for flexibility, and women require early intervention for respiratory function and continued intervention for bone mineral density.
Cell and Cell-Free Therapies to Counteract Human Premature and Physiological Aging: MSCs Come to Light
Authors: Infante Arantza , Rodríguez Clara I.
Published: October 2021

The progressive loss of the regenerative potential of tissues is one of the most obvious consequences of aging, driven by altered intercellular communication, cell senescence and niche-specific stem cell exhaustion, among other drivers. Mesenchymal tissues, such as bone, cartilage and fat, which originate from mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation, are especially affected by aging. Senescent MSCs show limited proliferative capacity and impairment in key defining features: their multipotent differentiation and secretory abilities, leading to diminished function and deleterious consequences for tissue homeostasis. In the past few years, several interventions to improve human healthspan by counteracting the cellular and molecular consequences of aging have moved closer to the clinic. Taking into account the MSC exhaustion occurring in aging, advanced therapies based on the potential use of young allogeneic MSCs and derivatives, such as extracellular vesicles (EVs), are gaining attention. Based on encouraging pre-clinical and clinical data, this review assesses the strong potential of MSC-based (cell and cell-free) therapies to counteract age-related consequences in both physiological and premature aging scenarios. We also discuss the mechanisms of action of these therapies and the possibility of enhancing their clinical potential by exposing MSCs to niche-relevant signals.
Influence of Polymorphism on the NFkB1 Gene (rs28362491) on the Susceptibility to Sarcopenia in the Elderly of the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Pereira Esdras E. B. , de Carvalho Darlen C. , Leitão Luciana P. C. , Rodrigues Juliana C. G. , Modesto Antônio A. C. , de Sousa Evitom C. , dos Santos Sidney E. B. , Fernandes Marianne R. , dos Santos Ney P. C.
Published: October 2021

Background: Sarcopenia is a disease characterized by progressive reduction in muscle mass and strength or function. Although it is known that sarcopenia may be associated with environmental factors, studies suggest the identification of genes related to skeletal muscle maintenance that explain the susceptibility to the disease. Objective: To analyze the influence of NFkB1 gene polymorphism on susceptibility to sarcopenia in the elderly. Methods: This is a case-control study, which included 219 elderly people, 74 elderly people with sarcopenia, and 145 without sarcopenia. Samples were analyzed for NFkB1 gene polymorphism (rs28362491), genotyped in PCR, and followed by fragment analysis. To avoid misinterpretation due to population substructure, we applied a previously developed set of 61 informative ancestral markers that were genotyped by multiplex PCR. We used logistic regression to identify differences in genotypic frequencies between elderly people with and without sarcopenia. Results: It was observed that the NFkB1 gene polymorphism presented frequencies of 24%, 50%, and 26% for the genotype DEL/DEL, DEL/INS, and INS/INS, respectively. Furthermore, elderly individuals with the INS/INS genotype had increased chances (p = 0.010; OR:2.943; 95%CI:1.301–6.654) for the development of sarcopenia. Conclusion: The INDEL polymorphism of the NFkB1 gene (rs28362491) may influence the susceptibility to sarcopenia in the elderly in elderly people in the Amazon.
Influence of Aspect and Elevational Gradient on Vegetation Pattern, Tree Characteristics and Ecosystem Carbon Density in Northwestern Himalayas
Authors: Bhardwaj D. R. , Tahiry Habibullah , Sharma Prashant , Pala Nazir A. , Kumar Dhirender , Kumar Amit , Bharti Bharti
Published: October 2021

Himalayan forest has been threatened by rapid anthropogenic activities, resulting in the loss of forest diversity and climate change. The present study was carried out on four aspects (northern, southern, western and eastern), at three different altitudinal ranges, namely, 1000–1300 m above sea level (m a.s.l.), 1300–1600 m a.s.l. and 1600–1900 m a.s.l., and at three diverse mountain ranges (Kalaghat, Barog and Nangali) of sub-temperate forest ecosystems of the mid Himalayan ranges, to elucidate their influence on vegetation, tree characteristics and ecosystem carbon density. The results revealed that Pinus roxburghii is the most dominant forest community of the mid Himalaya’s forest, irrespective of altitudinal gradient and slope. The south-facing slopes are occupied by the xerophytic tree species frequently found in the lower Shiwalik P. roxburghii forest, whereas the north-facing ones are dominated by mesophyllic species, such as Cedrus deodara and Quercus leucotrichophora, which commonly grows in the northwestern Himalayan temperate forest ecosystem. The maximum stem density (211.00 Nha−1) was found at 1000–1300 m a.s.l., and on the northern aspect (211.00 Nha−1). The maximum stem volume (236.50 m3 ha−1) was observed on the northern aspect at 1000–1300 m a.s.l., whereas the minimum (32.167 m3 ha−1) in the southern aspect at 1300–1600 m a.s.l. The maximum carbon density (149.90 Mg ha−1) was found on the northern aspect and declined with increasing elevation from 123.20 to 74.78 Mg ha−1. Overall, the study establishes that the southern and western aspects are very low in carbon density, whereas the northern aspect represents higher biodiversity as well as carbon and nutrient stocks. Therefore, aspect and altitude should be given due importance for efficient managing of biodiversity and mitigating climate change.
Stimulation of Healing of Non-Infected Stagnated Diabetic Wounds by Copper Oxide-Impregnated Wound Dressings
Authors: Melamed Eyal , Rovitsky Alexei , Roth Tohar , Assa Lior , Borkow Gadi
Published: October 2021

Background and Objective: Copper, a wide spectrum biocide, also plays a key role in angiogenesis and wound healing. Antibacterial wound dressings impregnated with copper oxide microparticles (COD) have been recently cleared by the U.S. FDA and other regulatory bodies for the treatment of acute and chronic wounds, including diabetic wounds. Our objective was to evaluate the capacity of COD in stimulating the healing of non-infected stagnated wounds in diabetic patients initially treated with standard of care (SOC) dressings. Materials and Methods: The trial was divided into the three following phases: 1–2 weeks of screening, during which the patients were treated with SOC dressings; 4 weeks of treatment, during which the COD was applied twice weekly; and 2 weeks of follow-up, during which the patients were again treated with SOC dressings. The wound conditions and sizes were assessed by clinical evaluation and a wound imaging artificial intelligence system. Results: Following 1 month of COD treatment, there was a clear reduction in the mean wound area (53.2%; p = 0.003), an increase in granulation tissue (43.37; p < 0.001), and a reduction in fibrins (47.8%; p = 0.002). In patients with non-weight-bearing wounds, the reduction in wound size was even more dramatic (66.9%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results of this study, showing a statistically significant influence of COD on wound healing of hard-to-heal wounds in diabetic patients, strongly supports the notion that copper oxide-impregnated dressings enhance wound healing directly. Further larger controlled studies should be conducted to substantiate our findings.
A Systematic Review to Assess the Impact of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Glycaemia in People with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Baitule Sudhanshu , Patel Aaran H. , Murthy Narasimha , Sankar Sailesh , Kyrou Ioannis , Ali Asad , Randeva Harpal S. , Robbins Tim
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives: Hyperbaric oxygen is a recognised treatment for a range of medical conditions, including treatment of diabetic foot disease. A number of studies have reported an impact of hyperbaric oxygen treatment on glycaemic control in patients undergoing treatment for diabetic foot disease. There has been no systematic review considering the impact of hyperbaric oxygen on glycaemia in people with diabetes. Materials and Methods: A prospectively PROSPERO-registered (PROSPERO registration: CRD42021255528) systematic review of eligible studies published in English in the PUBMED, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases, based on the following search terms: hyperbaric oxygen therapy, HBO2, hyperbaric oxygenation, glycaemic control, diabetes, diabetes Mellitus, diabetic, HbA1c. Data extraction to pre-determined piloted data collection form, with individual assessment of bias. Results: In total, 10 eligible publications were identified after screening. Of these, six articles reported a statistically significant reduction in blood glucose from hyperbaric oxygen treatment, while two articles reported a statistically significant increase in peripheral insulin sensitivity. Two articles also identified a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c following hyperbaric oxygen treatment. Conclusions: There is emerging evidence suggesting a reduction in glycaemia following hyperbaric oxygen treatment in patients with diabetes mellitus, but the existing studies are in relatively small cohorts and potentially underpowered. Additional large prospective clinical trials are required to understand the precise impact of hyperbaric oxygen treatment on glycaemia for people with diabetes mellitus.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicle-Based Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease: Progress and Opportunity
Authors: Chen Yi-An , Lu Cheng-Hsiu , Ke Chien-Chih , Liu Ren-Shyan
Published: October 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), as a neurodegenerative disorder, is characterized by mass neuronal and synaptic loss and, currently, there are no successful curative therapies. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are an emerging approach to intercellular communication via transferring cellular materials such as proteins, lipids, mRNAs, and miRNAs from parental cells to recipient cells, leading to the reprogramming of the molecular machinery. Numerous studies have suggested the therapeutic potential of EVs derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of AD, based on the neuroprotective, regenerative and immunomodulatory effects as effective as MSCs. In this review, we focus on the biology and function of EVs, the potential of MSC-derived EVs for AD therapy in preclinical and clinical studies, as well as the potent mechanisms of MSC-derived EVs actions. Finally, we highlight the modification strategies and diagnosis utilities in order to make advance in this field.
Experimental Demonstration of a Stacked Hybrid Optoacoustic-Piezoelectric Transducer for Localized Heating and Enhanced Cavitation
Authors: Sang Pil Gyu , Biswas Deblina , Lee Seung Jin , Won Sang Min , Son Donghee , Ok Jong G. , Park Hui Joon , Baac Hyoung Won
Published: October 2021

Laser-generated focused ultrasound (LGFU) is an emerging modality for cavitation-based therapy. However, focal pressure amplitudes by LGFU alone to achieve pulsed cavitation are often lacking as a treatment depth increases. This requires a higher pressure from a transmitter surface and more laser energies that even approach to a damage threshold of transmitter. To mitigate the requirement for LGFU-induced cavitation, we propose LGFU configurations with a locally heated focal zone using an additional high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) transmitter. After confirming heat-induced cavitation enhancement using two separate transmitters, we then developed a stacked hybrid optoacoustic-piezoelectric transmitter, which is a unique configuration made by coating an optoacoustic layer directly onto a piezoelectric substrate. This shared curvature design has great practical advantage without requiring the complex alignment of two focal zones. Moreover, this enabled the amplification of cavitation bubble density by 18.5-fold compared to the LGFU operation alone. Finally, the feasibility of tissue fragmentation was confirmed through a tissue-mimicking gel, using the combination of LGFU and HIFU (not via a stacked structure). We expect that the stacked transmitter can be effectively used for stronger and faster tissue fragmentation than the LGFU transmitter alone.
Effect of Commercial Amendments on Immobilization of Arsenic, Copper, and Zinc in Contaminated Soil: Comprehensive Assessing to Plant Uptake Combined with a Microbial Community Approach
Authors: Nguyen Quoc Tuan , Nejad Zahra Derakhshan , Jung Myung Chae
Published: October 2021

Identifying the proper chemical and biological materials as soil amendments is a great concern because they replace soil properties and subsequently change the soil quality. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a diverse range of soil amendments including bentonite (B), talc (T), activated carbon (AC), and cornstarch (CS) in form of sole and composite on the immobilization and bioavailability of As, Cu, and Zn. The amendments were characterized by SEM, FT-IR, and XRF, and applied at 2% (w/w) in the experimental pots with an Asteraceae (i.e., lettuce) for 45 days to monitor plant growth parameters and soil microbial community. Soil pH from 6.1 ± 0.02 significantly increased in the amended soils with the maximum value found for TAC (7.4 ± 0.04). The results showed that soil amendments reduced easily in an exchangeable fractionation of As, Cu, and Zn with the maximum values found for BAC by 66.4%, AC by 84.2%, and T by 89.7% respectively. Adding B, T, AC, and their composites induced dry biomass of lettuce >40 wt.%, while CS and its composites did not affect the dry biomass of the plant. The average content of Cu and Zn in plant tissues decreased >45 wt.% in B, AC, and their composites amended soils; meanwhile, AC and its composites mitigated As uptake by >30 wt.% in lettuce. The results of Biolog Ecoplate showed that the amending soils improved the microbial community, especially for composites (e.g., TCS). The results demonstrated that adding composites amendments provided an efficient method for the immobilization of metals and metalloids, and also induced plant growth parameters and microbial community.
Renewable-Resource Technologies in Mining and Metallurgical Enterprises Providing Environmental Safety
Authors: Rybak Jarosław , Adigamov Arkadiy , Kongar-Syuryun Cheynesh , Khayrutdinov Marat , Tyulyaeva Yulia
Published: October 2021

The article addresses the issue of mining and industrial waste stored in tailings and heaps in mining areas, and it explores the existing, as well as new, ways of reducing its harmful impact on the environment. On the basis of the Russian experience in mining industry in Ural, it presents a process which makes it possible to eliminate the amassed hazardous waste, retrieve the valuable material (metals) stored in it, and use the remaining waste as backfill in order to both: store it underground (and not on the surface) and prevent the disasters caused by the collapse of the abandoned shafts, thus prolonging the functioning of the mining areas. The process includes preliminary activation treatment of materials found in industrial waste in a disintegrator to protect the environment from toxic pollution. The promising results of the experiment have been discussed, taking into account the complexities of economic evaluation of the idea.
Changes in Antioxidant Properties and Amounts of Bioactive Compounds during Simulated In Vitro Digestion of Wheat Bread Enriched with Plant Extracts
Authors: Czubaszek Anna , Czaja Anna , Sokół-Łętowska Anna , Kolniak-Ostek Joanna , Kucharska Alicja Z.
Published: October 2021

Cereal preparation can be an excellent source of substances with proven health-promoting properties. Unfortunately, some types of bread, such as white flour bread, are devoid of many valuable nutrients. Therefore, it is necessary to look for ways to increase its density and nutritional value. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of stabilized plant extracts on the quality of bread, its antioxidant activity and polyphenol content, and to evaluate the stability of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity during in vitro digestion. The research material was the wheat bread baked with spray dried microcapsules of hawthorn bark, soybeans and onion husks in maltodextrin or inulin carriers. The addition of plant extracts resulted in the presence of phenolic compounds in the wheat bread, and its antioxidant activity significantly increased. There was no significant difference in antioxidant activity between breads containing microcapsules with different carriers. During in vitro digestion, procyanidins and isoflavones in bread were more resistant to the digestive processes than other compounds. The antioxidant activity during simulated digestion was the highest at the stage of gastric digestion, and its value depended on the extract used and the analytical method applied.
Lipid A-Mediated Bacterial–Host Chemical Ecology: Synthetic Research of Bacterial Lipid As and Their Development as Adjuvants
Authors: Shimoyama Atsushi , Fukase Koichi
Published: October 2021

Gram-negative bacterial cell surface component lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and its active principle, lipid A, exhibit immunostimulatory effects and have the potential to act as adjuvants. However, canonical LPS acts as an endotoxin by hyperstimulating the immune response. Therefore, LPS and lipid A must be structurally modified to minimize their toxic effects while maintaining their adjuvant effect for application as vaccine adjuvants. In the field of chemical ecology research, various biological phenomena occurring among organisms are considered molecular interactions. Recently, the hypothesis has been proposed that LPS and lipid A mediate bacterial–host chemical ecology to regulate various host biological phenomena, mainly immunity. Parasitic and symbiotic bacteria inhabiting the host are predicted to possess low-toxicity immunomodulators due to the chemical structural changes of their LPS caused by co-evolution with the host. Studies on the chemical synthesis and functional evaluation of their lipid As have been developed to test this hypothesis and to apply them to low-toxicity and safe adjuvants.
ZNF224 Protein: Multifaceted Functions Based on Its Molecular Partners
Authors: Cesaro Elena , Lupo Angelo , Rapuano Roberta , Pastore Arianna , Grosso Michela , Costanzo Paola
Published: October 2021

The transcription factor ZNF224 is a Kruppel-like zinc finger protein that consists of 707 amino acids and contains 19 tandemly repeated C2H2 zinc finger domains that mediate DNA binding and protein–protein interactions. ZNF224 was originally identified as a transcriptional repressor of genes involved in energy metabolism, and it was demonstrated that ZNF224-mediated transcriptional repression needs the interaction of its KRAB repressor domain with the co-repressor KAP1 and its zinc finger domains 1–3 with the arginine methyltransferase PRMT5. Furthermore, the protein ZNF255 was identified as an alternative isoform of ZNF224 that possesses different domain compositions mediating distinctive functional interactions. Subsequent studies showed that ZNF224 is a multifunctional protein able to exert different transcriptional activities depending on the cell context and the variety of its molecular partners. Indeed, it has been shown that ZNF224 can act as a repressor, an activator and a cofactor for other DNA-binding transcription factors in different human cancers. Here, we provide a brief overview of the current knowledge on the multifaceted interactions of ZNF224 and the resulting different roles of this protein in various cellular contexts.
Deposition of Polymer Particles with Fibrinogen Corona at Abiotic Surfaces under Flow Conditions
Authors: Żeliszewska Paulina , Wasilewska Monika , Cieśla Michał , Adamczyk Zbigniew
Published: October 2021

The deposition kinetics of polymer particles with fibrinogen molecule coronas at bare and poly-L-lysine (PLL) modified mica was studied using the microfluid impinging-jet cell. Basic physicochemical characteristics of fibrinogen and the particles were acquired using dynamic light scattering and the electrophoretic mobility methods, whereas the zeta potential of the substrates was determined using streaming potential measurements. Subsequently, an efficient method for the preparation of the particles with coronas, characterized by a controlled fibrinogen coverage, was developed. This enabled us to carry out measurements, which confirmed that the deposition kinetics of the particles at mica vanished at pH above 5. In contrast, the particle deposition of PLL modified mica was at maximum for pH above 5. It was shown that the deposition kinetics could be adequately analyzed in terms of the mean-field approach, analogously to the ordinary colloid particle behavior. This contrasts the fibrinogen molecule behavior, which efficiently adsorbs at negatively charged substrates for the entire range pHs up to 9.7. These results have practical significance for conducting label-free immunoassays governed by the specific antigen/antibody interactions.
Content and Nutritional Evaluation of Zinc in PDO and Traditional Italian Cheeses
Authors: Manzi Pamela , Di Costanzo Maria Gabriella , Ritota Mena
Published: October 2021

Zinc is an essential mineral which plays a key role in several important biological processes in the human body. The determination of its level in food matrices can contribute to the food quality characterization and to the adequacy of the diet. Animal food products generally have a higher zinc content compared to vegetables. Among them, dairy products consumption can provide a great contribution to the zinc reference intakes. In this study, different Italian cheeses (38 Protected Denomination of Origin and 9 Traditional) were evaluated for their zinc content. Cow cheeses generally showed the highest zinc content (1.83–7.75 mg/100 g cheese), followed by sheep cheeses (1.34–3.69 mg/100 g), and cheeses from mixed milk (0.39–4.54 mg/100 g). The only cheese from buffalo milk (Mozzarella di Bufala Campana PDO) showed a zinc content of 2.14 mg/100 g. The great variability in the zinc content observed among the samples is the result of the influence of several factors, such as the feeding system, the species (cow, sheep, goat, and buffalo), and the cheese-making. Most of the samples resulted in a great contribution (>10%) to the zinc Daily Reference Intake set by EU (10 mg/day), with only two samples contributing to less than 4%.
Chemical Composition of Cinnamomum verum Leaf and Flower Essential Oils and Analysis of Their Antibacterial, Insecticidal, and Larvicidal Properties
Authors: Narayanankutty Arunaksharan , Kunnath Krishnaprasad , Alfarhan Ahmed , Rajagopal Rajakrishnan , Ramesh Varsha
Published: October 2021

Cinnamomum verum is widely used in traditional medicines, and the different parts of the plant, such as bark, leaves, and flowers, are used for essential oil production. The present study compared the chemical composition of the essential oil of C. verum extracted from the leaves and flowers. In addition, efficacy of these essential oils against the two common pests Sitophilus oryzae and Callosobruchus maculatus was also evaluated. The results indicated the presence of cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, caryophyllene, and linalool in these essential oils, however, at different concentrations. The leaf essential oil was found to be 10–20% more effective as a fumigant against both the pests. Likewise, the leaf essential oil found to repel these pests even at lower concentrations than that of flower essential oil of C. verum. Besides, these essential oils were also effective in controlling the growth of various gram positive and gram negative microbial pathogens and possibly a safeguard for human health. On contrary, both the essential oils were found to be safe for the application on grains, as indicated by their germination potentials. It was also observed that these essential oils do not cause any significant toxicity to guppy fishes, thus confirming their ecological safety for use as a biopesticide.