bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Carbohydrates, Organic Acids, and Minerals at Different Development Stages of Hexachlamys edulis Fruit, a Wild South American Species with Horticultural Potential
Authors: Arena Miriam Elisabet , Povilonis Ignacio Sebastián , Borroni Virginia , Pérez Ethel , Pellegrino Néstor , Cacciatore Claudio , Radice Silvia
Published: February 2023

The aim of this work was to study the patterns of the accumulation of carbohydrates, organic acids, and minerals at different development stages of Hexachlamys edulis fruit for its evaluation as a source of health-promoting compounds, which is necessary in order to be included in the Argentine Food Code. Additionally, the obtained results will allow for deciding the optimal time for consumption to receive a better flavour and a good contribution of the nutrients evaluated. The succinic acid concentration (the major organic acid) was high in unripe fruit (112.33 mg/g of the dry weight), then decreased to a minimum in medium ripe and ripe fruit (92.48 to 99.43 mg/g of the dry weight,), to increase again in overripe fruit (115.65 mg/g of the dry weight,). Sucrose increased significantly from 21.20 mg/g of the dry weight in unripe fruit to a maximum of 82.53 mg/g of the dry weight in ripe fruit. Glucose increased significantly from 95.59 mg/g of the dry weight in unripe fruit to a maximum of 163.13 mg/g of the dry weight in overripe fruit. Fructose followed the same behaviour, increasing significantly from 150.08 mg/g of the dry weight in unripe fruit to a maximum of 205.85 mg/g of the dry weight in overripe fruit. The starch concentration was at the maximum in unripe and medium ripe fruit (171.39 and 161.19 mg starch/g of the dry weight, respectively), to then decrease in ripe and overripe fruit (40.45 and 65.96 mg starch/mg of the dry weight, respectively). Maximum insoluble dietary fibre values were attained in unripe and medium ripe fruit (26.71 and 27.13 mg/100 g of the dry weight, respectively), to then decrease in ripe and overripe fruit (15.81 and 15.51 mg/100 g of the dry weight, respectively). Soluble dietary fibre oscillated between 9.03 and 11.26 mg/100 g of the dry weight during the development stages, although without significant differences. The mineral concentrations (Mg, K, Mn, and total cations) did not vary significantly during the different development stages. The obtained results allow us to consider H. edulis fruit as a promising natural source of sugars, organic acids, and minerals.
Importance of EU Integration for Biodiversity and Nature Conservation in Transboundary Protected Areas (TPAs) in the Western Balkan
Authors: Miho Aleko , Marka Jani , Krasniqi Zenel
Published: February 2023

There are many important protected areas in the Western Balkan region, which are shared between Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece. These areas have special importance based on their species density (mosses and higher plants) per surface unit. These transboundary ecosystems, which include mountainous massifs, lakes, and rivers, are biodiversity hotspots for the whole of Europe. Species and habitat densities are high compared to other countries in Southeast Europe. However, political borders fragment properly across two or three countries, which often have different approaches and rules for nature protection and the use of resources. Hence, in this short opinion piece, we stress common and cooperative transboundary protection and management in these countries. Furthermore, the European Union’s policy towards the Western Balkan countries in the Stabilization and Association Process (SAP), with the goal of their eventual EU membership, is crucial. Therefore, our appeal is addressed not only to the respective local communities and national governments but also to the European Commission and related EU institutions. We stress the importance of these cross-border ecosystems in the integration process.
Correlates of Attitudes toward Sexual Minorities among Vietnamese Social Work Practitioners
Authors: Le Trang Mai , Yu Nilan , Webb Stephanie
Published: February 2023

This article examines the correlates of Vietnamese social work practitioners’ attitudes toward individuals who identify as lesbian or gay. This study, among the very few studies on the general topic in non-Western contexts and the first of its kind in Vietnam, investigates correlates of attitudes toward sexual minorities that are known in the literature. The data are drawn from a survey of 292 Vietnamese social work practitioners. The findings suggest that the attitudes of Vietnamese social work practitioners are associated with gender, educational attainment, level of social work education, practice experience, practice sector, professional contact with sexual minority clients, personal contact with sexual minorities, exposure to content on sexual minorities in social work courses and professional development activities, and independent learning activities about sexual minorities but not with age, religious affiliation, and marital status. Implications for social work education and practice are considered.
The Impact of Land Use Structure Change on Utilization Performance in Henan Province, China
Authors: Zhao Yanqi , Zhang Yue , Yang Ying , Li Fan , Dai Rongkun , Li Jianlin , Wang Mingshi , Li Zhenhua
Published: February 2023

Because of the trends in population growth and rapid industrialization and urbanization, the intensity and structure of land use are undergoing great changes. Henan Province is an important economic province and a major grain producing and energy consumption area, and its land use plays a key role in the sustainable development of the whole of China. This study takes Henan Province as the research object, selects panel statistical data from 2010 to 2020, and discusses the land use structure (LUS) in Henan Province in terms of three aspects: information entropy, analysis of land use dynamic change, and land type conversion matrix. Based on the indicator system “social economy (SE)—ecological environment (EE)—agricultural production (AP)—energy consumption (EC)”, a land use performance (LUP) evaluation model was constructed to judge the performance of various land use types in Henan Province. Finally, the relational degree between LUS and LUP was calculated through the grey correlation. The results show that among the eight land use types in the study area since 2010, land used for water and water conservancy facilities increased by 4%. In addition, transport and garden land changed significantly, and was mainly converted from cultivated land (decreased by 6674 km2) and other land. From the perspective of LUP, the increase in ecological environment performance is the most obvious, while agriculture performance is lagging behind; it is worth paying attention to the energy consumption performance, which is decreasing year by year. There is an obvious correlation between LUS and LUP. LUS in Henan Province presents a gradually stable state, and the transformation of land types promotes LUP. Proposing an effective and convenient evaluation method to explore the relationship between LUS and LUP is very beneficial in helping stakeholders to actively focus more on optimizing land resource management and decision making for the coordinated and sustainable development among agricultural, socio-economic, eco-environmental, and energy systems.
Second Victims among German Emergency Medical Services Physicians (SeViD-III-Study)
Authors: Marung Hartwig , Strametz Reinhard , Roesner Hannah , Reifferscheid Florian , Petzina Rainer , Klemm Victoria , Trifunovic-Koenig Milena , Bushuven Stefan
Published: February 2023

Background: Patient care in the prehospital emergency setting is error-prone. Wu’s publications on the second victim syndrome made very clear that medical errors may lead to severe emotional injury on the caregiver’s part. So far, little is known about the extent of the problem within the field of prehospital emergency care. Our study aimed at identifying the prevalence of the Second Victim Phenomenon among Emergency Medical Services (EMS) physicians in Germany. Methods: Web-based distribution of the SeViD questionnaire among n = 12.000 members of the German Prehospital Emergency Physician Association (BAND) to assess general experience, symptoms and support strategies associated with the Second Victim Phenomenon. Results: In total, 401 participants fully completed the survey, 69.1% were male and the majority (91.2%) were board-certified in prehospital emergency medicine. The median length of experience in this field of medicine was 11 years. Out of 401 participants, 213 (53.1%) had experienced at least one second victim incident. Self-perceived time to full recovery was up to one month according to 57.7% (123) and more than one month to 31.0% (66) of the participants. A total of 11.3% (24) had not fully recovered by the time of the survey. Overall, 12-month prevalence was 13.7% (55/401). The COVID-19 pandemic had little effect on SVP prevalence within this specific sample. Conclusions: Our data indicate that the Second Victim Phenomenon is very frequent among prehospital emergency physicians in Germany. However, four out of ten caregivers affected did not seek or receive any assistance in coping with this stressful situation. One out of nine respondents had not yet fully recovered by the time of the survey. Effective support networks, e.g., easy access to psychological and legal counseling as well as the opportunity to discuss ethical issues, are urgently required in order to prevent employees from further harm, to keep healthcare professionals from leaving this field of medical care and to maintain a high level of system safety and well-being of subsequent patients.
The Combined Impact of Hand-Arm Vibration and Noise Exposure on Hearing Sensitivity of Agricultural/Forestry Workers—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Thaper Ravinder , Sesek Richard , Garnett Richard , Acosta-Sojo Yadrianna , Purdy Gregory T.
Published: February 2023

Hand-arm vibration (HAV), which potentially causes vibration white finger (VWF), and occupational noise are serious issues in the agricultural and forestry industries. Generally, agricultural workers operate as single-family/small businesses and thus are exempted from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations/laws for noise and HAV otherwise applicable to other industries in general. The agricultural/forestry sectors are at increased risk as working hours are longer than a typical 8-h work shift putting them at greater risk of hearing loss. The study was conducted to assess the possible association between hearing sensitivity on combined exposure to noise and hand-arm vibration. A systematic literature review was conducted on exposure to noise and HAV in the agricultural/forestry sector and the resulting impacts on hearing. The peer-reviewed articles in English were searched with 14 search words in three databases of PubMed, Ergo Abstracts, and Web of Science without any filter for the year for fully available article text. The database literature search resulted in 72 articles. Forty-seven (47) articles met the search criteria based on the title. Abstracts were then reviewed for any relationship between hearing loss and hand-arm vibration/Raynaud’s phenomenon/VWF. This left 18 articles. It was found that most agricultural workers and chainsaw workers are exposed to noise and VWF. Hearing is impacted by both noise and aging. The workers exposed to HAV and noise had greater hearing loss than non-exposed workers, possibly due to the additive effect on temporary threshold shift (TTS). It was found that VWF might be associated with vasospasm in the cochlea through autonomous vascular reflexes, digital arteries narrowing, vasoconstriction in the inner ear by noise, ischemic damage to the hair cells and increased oxygen demand, which significantly affects the correlation between VWF and hearing loss.
Effects of Magnetic Biochar Addition on Mesophilic Anaerobic Digestion of Sewage Sludge
Authors: Jiang Li , Zhang Yanru , Zhu Yi , Huang Zhongliang , Huang Jing , Wu Zijian , Zhang Xuan , Qin Xiaoli , Li Hui
Published: February 2023

As a low-cost additive to anaerobic digestion (AD), magnetic biochar (MBC) can act as an electron conductor to promote electron transfer to enhance biogas production performance in the AD process of sewage sludge and has thus attracted much attention in research and industrial applications. In the present work, Camellia oleifera shell (COS) was used to produce MBC as an additive for mesophilic AD of sewage sludge, in order to explore the effect of MBC on the mesophilic AD process and its enhancement mechanism. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) further confirmed that biochar was successfully magnetized. The yield of biogas from sewage sludge was enhanced by 14.68–39.24% with the addition of MBC, and the removal efficiency of total solid (TS), volatile solids (VS), and soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD) were 28.99–46.13%, 32.22–48.62%, and 84.18–86.71%, respectively. According to the Modified Gompertz Model and Cone Model, the optimum dosage of MBC was 20 mg/g TS. The maximum methane production rate (Rm) was 15.58% higher than that of the control reactor, while the lag-phase (λ) was 43.78% shorter than the control group. The concentration of soluble Fe2+ and Fe3+ were also detected in this study to analyze the function of MBC for improving biogas production performance from sewage sludge. The biogas production was increased when soluble Fe3+ was reduced to soluble Fe2+. Overall, the MBC was beneficial to the resource utilization of COS and showed a good prospect for improving mesophilic AD performance.
Faculty Perspective Regarding Practical Experience of Adapted Physical Education for Undergraduate Students
Authors: Park Seungyeon
Published: February 2023

Preparing future physical education professionals to teach adapted physical education (APE) is a responsibility of physical education teacher education (PETE) programs. Furthermore, there is limited literature on practicum and/or field experiences as a part of APE courses from the perspective of faculty members. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore faculty views in relation to the practical experiences in undergraduate APE courses. Structured interviews were conducted with faculty members of higher education institutions in the U.S. There were five study participants in this study. Thematic analysis was employed for data analysis. The findings included three subthemes: (a) quality of quantity, (b) need for diversity in practical experiences, and (c) practical experience pertaining to APE courses. Practical experience in APE courses is an integral part of professional preparation for undergraduate students in kinesiology programs. There are no exact criteria for requirements across the states; however, students could maximize their learning by engaging in diverse APE practicum settings. The instructor of APE courses should provide clear guidelines and feedback for students. Instructors of APE courses must also consider the institutional and environmental context prior to planning and implementing practical experiences to provide successful learning experiences for students.
Spatio-Temporal Bayesian Models for Malaria Risk Using Survey and Health Facility Routine Data in Rwanda
Authors: Semakula Muhammed , Niragire François , Faes Christel
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Malaria is a life-threatening disease ocuring mainly in developing countries. Almost half of the world’s population was at risk of malaria in 2020. Children under five years age are among the population groups at considerably higher risk of contracting malaria and developing severe disease. Most countries use Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data for health programs and evaluation. However, malaria elimination strategies require a real-time, locally-tailored response based on malaria risk estimates at the lowest administrative levels. In this paper, we propose a two-step modeling framework using survey and routine data to improve estimates of malaria risk incidence in small areas and enable quantifying malaria trends. Methods: To improve estimates, we suggest an alternative approach to modeling malaria relative risk by combining information from survey and routine data through Bayesian spatio-temporal models. We model malaria risk using two steps: (1) fitting a binomial model to the survey data, and (2) extracting fitted values and using them in the Poison model as nonlinear effects in the routine data. We modeled malaria relative risk among under-five-year old children in Rwanda. Results: The estimation of malaria prevalence among children who are under five years old using Rwanda demographic and health survey data for the years 2019–2020 alone showed a higher prevalence in the southwest, central, and northeast of Rwanda than the rest of the country. Combining with routine health facility data, we detected clusters that were undetected based on the survey data alone. The proposed approach enabled spatial and temporal trend effect estimation of relative risk in local/small areas in Rwanda. Conclusions: The findings of this analysis suggest that using DHS combined with routine health services data for active malaria surveillance may provide provide more precise estimates of the malaria burden, which can be used toward malaria elimination targets. We compared findings from geostatistical modeling of malaria prevalence among under-five-year old children using DHS 2019–2020 and findings from malaria relative risk spatio-temporal modeling using both DHS survey 2019–2020 and health facility routine data. The strength of routinely collected data at small scales and high-quality data from the survey contributed to a better understanding of the malaria relative risk at the subnational level in Rwanda.
Individual, Peer, and Family Correlates of Depressive Symptoms among College Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Tam Nelson W. Y. , Kwok Sylvia Y. C. L. , Gu Minmin
Published: February 2023

In this study, an ecological model and developmental psychopathology theory focusing on an ontogenic system (hopelessness) and microsystems (peer alienation and childhood abuse and trauma) was adopted to examine the individual, peer, and family correlates of depressive symptoms among college Chinese students in Hong Kong, China. A cross-sectional survey research design with a convenience sampling procedure was used to examine a sample of college students (n = 786) aged 18 to 21 years old in Hong Kong. Among them, 352 respondents (44.8%) reported having depressive symptoms, with a Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) score of 14 or above. The results of this study indicated that childhood abuse and trauma, peer alienation, and hopelessness were positively related to depressive symptoms. The underlying arguments and implications were discussed. The study results provided further support for the ecological model and the developmental psychopathology theory on the predictive roles of individual, peer, and family correlates of adolescent depression.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Waste Infrastructure: Lessons Learned and Opportunities for a Sustainable Future
Authors: Jayasinghe Poornima A. , Jalilzadeh Hamoun , Hettiaratchi Patrick
Published: February 2023

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed many global challenges, mainly in the healthcare sector; however, the impacts on other vital sectors cannot be overlooked. The waste sector was one of the significantly impacted sectors during the pandemic, as it dramatically changed the dynamics of waste generation. Inadequate waste management practices during COVID-19 shed light on the opportunities for developing systematic, sustainable, and resilient waste infrastructure in the future. This study aimed to exploit the learnings of COVID-19 to identify any potential opportunities in post-pandemic waste infrastructure. A comprehensive review on existing case studies was conducted to understand the waste generation dynamics and the waste management strategies during COVID-19. Infectious medical waste from healthcare facilities had the largest influx of waste compared with non-medical waste from residential and other sectors. This study then identified five key opportunities from a long-term operational perspective: considering healthcare waste sector as a critical area of focus; encouraging the integration and decentralization of waste management facilities; developing systematic and novel approaches and tools for quantifying waste; shifting towards a circular economy approach; and modernizing policies to improve the effectiveness of the post-pandemic waste management infrastructure.
Spatial Coupling Pattern and Driving Forces of Rural Settlements and Arable Land in Alpine Canyon Region of the Maoxian County, China
Authors: Ju Lingfan , Yu Huan , Xiang Qing , Hu Wenkai , Xu Xiaoyu
Published: February 2023

For mountainous areas in different regions, the study of the spatial coupling relationship between rural settlements and arable land resources is a key aspect of coordinated rural development. In this study, a spatial coupling relationship model and a Geodetector are introduced to explore the spatial coupling relationship and driving factors of rural settlements and arable land in the alpine canyon region. The nearest neighbor index, Voronoi diagram, and landscape pattern index system based on the geographic grid are used to analyze the spatial differentiation characteristics of rural settlements in the alpine canyon region, and the spatial coupling relationship model is introduced to explore the spatial coupling relationship between rural settlements and arable land. Finally, the driving factors of the coupling relationship are detected based on Geodetector. The results show that (1) the spatial distribution of rural settlements in the study area is “T-shaped” with a relatively regular settlement shape; (2) the population in the alpine canyon region is relatively small, and the conflict between people and land is not prominent in most areas, so the overall coupling situation between rural settlements and farming land is dominated by fewer people and more land; and (3) the spatial coupling between rural settlements and arable land in the alpine canyon region is mainly affected by four types of factors: terrain topography, meteorology, soil and population, and economy. The interaction between the factors has a synergistic enhancement effect. The results of the study provide theoretical support for the development of rural settlements in the alpine canyon region.
Impact of Two-Way FDI on China’s Environmental Quality: The Perspective of Environmentally Cleaner Production and End Treatment
Authors: Zhang Zhenya , Yang Wanping , Li Dong , Wang Yajuan
Published: February 2023

While the rapid development of two-way foreign direct investment (FDI) has boosted China’s economic growth, its impact on environmental quality is uncertain. Based on provincial panel data from China covering the period from 2002 to 2020, this paper proposes an environmental quality assessment index system for China from two aspects: environmentally cleaner production and environmental end treatment. The comprehensive environmental quality index (EQI), environmentally cleaner production index (EPI), and environmental end treatment index (ETI) were all measured, with the geographic information system tool and Dagum Gini coefficient used to analyse the indicators’ differences using a system-generalised method-of-moments (SYS-GMM) estimation to study the impact of two-way FDI on environmental quality in various regions across China. The results demonstrate that during the sample period, inward FDI positively impacted environmental quality and cleaner production but had a negative impact on environmental end treatment. Outward FDI significantly promoted EQI, EPI, and ETI, and the interaction between inward FDI and outward FDI positively impacted environmental quality and environmentally cleaner production, while it negatively impacted environmental end treatment. This indicates that under two-way FDI, China’s relationship with environmental quality has gradually evolved from ‘pollution first and then treatment’ to ‘green development of cleaner production’.
A Game-Theory-Based Approach to Promoting Health Policy among Minorities
Authors: Cohen Chen , Rinot Levavi Lilach
Published: February 2023

The importance of designing policy measures that government and other public bodies apply to different populations has been escalating in recent decades. This study seeks the best way to induce conservative minority groups to cooperate with healthcare policy. The case study focuses on the Bedouin population of Israel and its willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccination. The study is based on vaccination data from the Israel Ministry of Health for the country’s entire Bedouin population, twenty-four semi-structured in-depth interviews with relevant key stakeholders, and the use of game-theory tools to profile the players, the utility functions, and various equilibrium combinations. By comparing the groups and integrating game-theory tools into the process, we reveal variables that may affect healthcare processes among conservative minority communities. Finally, cross-tabulating the results with the interview findings strengthens the insights and allows a culturally adjusted policy to be adopted. The different starting points of different minority populations have implications for the design of requisite policies in both the short and the long terms. The analysis of the game allowed us to indicate the strategy that policymakers should adopt in consideration of variables that should be taken into account in order to improve cooperation and the ability to apply policy. To increase vaccination rates among conservative minority communities in general and the Bedouin population in particular, trust in the government must be increased in the long term. In the short term, trust in the medical profession must be increased, and also health literacy.
Loss of Extrasynaptic Inhibitory Glycine Receptors in the Hippocampus of an AD Mouse Model Is Restored by Treatment with Artesunate
Authors: Kuhse Jochen , Groeneweg Femke , Kins Stefan , Gorgas Karin , Nawrotzki Ralph , Kirsch Joachim , Kiss Eva
Published: February 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by synaptic failure and neuronal loss. Recently, we demonstrated that artemisinins restored the levels of key proteins of inhibitory GABAergic synapses in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice, a model of cerebral amyloidosis. In the present study, we analyzed the protein levels and subcellular localization of α2 and α3 subunits of GlyRs, indicated as the most abundant receptor subtypes in the mature hippocampus, in early and late stages of AD pathogenesis, and upon treatment with two different doses of artesunate (ARS). Immunofluorescence microscopy and Western blot analysis demonstrated that the protein levels of both α2 and α3 GlyRs are considerably reduced in the CA1 and the dentate gyrus of 12-month-old APP/PS1 mice when compared to WT mice. Notably, treatment with low-dose ARS affected GlyR expression in a subunit-specific way; the protein levels of α3 GlyR subunits were rescued to about WT levels, whereas that of α2 GlyRs were not affected significantly. Moreover, double labeling with a presynaptic marker indicated that the changes in GlyR α3 expression levels primarily involve extracellular GlyRs. Correspondingly, low concentrations of artesunate (≤1 µM) also increased the extrasynaptic GlyR cluster density in hAPPswe-transfected primary hippocampal neurons, whereas the number of GlyR clusters overlapping presynaptic VIAAT immunoreactivities remained unchanged. Thus, here we provide evidence that the protein levels and subcellular localization of α2 and α3 subunits of GlyRs show regional and temporal alterations in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice that can be modulated by the application of artesunate.
Diamine Oxidase as a Therapeutic Enzyme: Study of Germination from Vegetal Sources and Investigation of the Presence of β-N-Oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic Acid (β-ODAP) Using LC-MS/MS
Authors: Boulfekhar Rym , Ohlund Leanne , Kumaresan Kathrina Mae , Megoura Meriem , Warkentin Thomas D. , Ispas-Szabo Pompilia , Sleno Lekha , Mateescu Mircea Alexandru
Published: February 2023

Vegetal diamine oxidase (vDAO), an enzyme proposed to relieve symptoms of histaminosis, shows better reactivity with histamine and aliphatic diamines, as well as higher enzymatic activity than DAO of animal origin. The objective of this study was to evaluate the enzyme activity of vDAO from germinating grains from Lathyrus sativus (grass pea) and Pisum sativum (pea), and to verify the presence of a neurotoxin, β-N-Oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid (β-ODAP), in the crude extract obtained from their seedlings. A targeted liquid chromatography–multiple-reaction monitoring mass spectrometry method was developed and used to quantify β-ODAP in the analysed extracts. An optimized sample preparation procedure, involving protein precipitation with acetonitrile followed by mixed-anion exchange solid-phase extraction, allowed for high sensitivity and good peak shape for β-ODAP detection. The Lathyrus sativus extract exhibited the highest vDAO enzyme activity of the extracts, followed by the extract from pea cultivar Amarillo from the Crop Development Centre (CDC). The results have also shown that even though β-ODAP was present in the crude extract from L. sativus, its content was far below the toxicity threshold (300 mg of β-ODAP/kg body/day). CDC Amarillo showed 5000-fold less β-ODAP than the undialysed L. sativus extract. It was concluded that both species can be considered as convenient sources of vDAO for potential therapeutic use.
Coarse-Grained Molecular Dynamics of pH-Sensitive Lipids
Authors: Lado-Touriño Isabel , Cerpa-Naranjo Arisbel
Published: February 2023

pH-sensitive lipids represent a class of lipids that can be protonated and destabilized in acidic environments, as they become positively charged in response to low-pH conditions. They can be incorporated into lipidic nanoparticles such as liposomes, which are able to change their properties and allow specific drug delivery at the acidic conditions encountered in some pathological microenvironments. In this work, we used coarse-grained molecular-dynamic simulations to study the stability of neutral and charged lipid bilayers containing POPC (1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) and various kinds of ISUCA ((F)2-(imidazol-1-yl)succinic acid)-derived lipids, which can act as pH-sensitive molecules. In order to explore such systems, we used a MARTINI-derived forcefield, previously parameterized using all-atom simulation results. We calculated the average area per lipid, the second-rank order parameter and the lipid diffusion coefficient of both lipid bilayers made of pure components and mixtures of lipids in different proportions, under neutral or acidic conditions. The results show that the use of ISUCA-derived lipids disturbs the lipid bilayer structure, with the effect being particularly marked under acidic conditions. Although more-in depth studies on these systems must be carried out, these initial results are encouraging and the lipids designed in this research could be a good basis for developing new pH-sensitive liposomes.
Efficacy and Safety of Epidermidibacterium Keratini EPI-7 Derived Postbiotics in Skin Aging: A Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Kim Jihee , Lee Young In , Mun Seyoung , Jeong Jinuk , Lee Dong-Geol , Kim Misun , Jo HyungWoo , Lee Sieun , Han Kyudong , Lee Ju Hee
Published: February 2023

The present study investigated the effect of topical application of Epidermidibacterium Keratini (EPI-7) ferment filtrate, which is a postbiotic product of a novel actinobacteria, on skin aging, by performing a prospective randomized split-face clinical study on Asian woman participants. The investigators measured skin biophysical parameters, including skin barrier function, elasticity, and dermal density, and revealed that the application of the EPI-7 ferment filtrate-including test product resulted in significantly higher improvements in barrier function, skin elasticity, and dermal density compared to the placebo group. This study also investigated the influence of EPI-7 ferment filtrate on skin microbiome diversity to access its potential beneficial effects and safety. EPI-7 ferment filtrate increased the abundance of commensal microbes belonging to Cutibacterium, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, Streptococcus, Lawsonella, Clostridium, Rothia, Lactobacillus, and Prevotella. The abundance of Cutibacterium was significantly increased along with significant changes in Clostridium and Prevotella abundance. Therefore, EPI-7 postbiotics, which contain the metabolite called orotic acid, ameliorate the skin microbiota linked with the aging phenotype of the skin. This study provides preliminary evidence that postbiotic therapy may affect the signs of skin aging and microbial diversity. To confirm the positive effect of EPI-7 postbiotics and microbial interaction, additional clinical investigations and functional analyses are required.
Mycobacterium abscessus Infections in Cystic Fibrosis Individuals: A Review on Therapeutic Options
Authors: Recchia Deborah , Stelitano Giovanni , Stamilla Alessandro , Gutierrez Damaris L. , Degiacomi Giulia , Chiarelli Laurent R. , Pasca Maria Rosalia
Published: February 2023

Mycobacterium abscessus is an opportunistic pathogen that mainly colonizes and infects cystic fibrosis patients’ lungs. M. abscessus is naturally resistant to many antibiotics such as rifamycin, tetracyclines and β-lactams. The current therapeutic regimens are not very effective and are mostly based on repurposed drugs used against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections. Thus, new approaches and novel strategies are urgently needed. This review aims to provide an overview of the latest ongoing findings to fight M. abscessus infections by analyzing emerging and alternative treatments, novel drug delivery strategies, and innovative molecules.
The Effects of Momordica charantia on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Richter Erika , Geetha Thangiah , Burnett Donna , Broderick Tom L. , Babu Jeganathan Ramesh
Published: February 2023

T2DM is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance. It is recognized as one of the most common metabolic disorders and its prevalence continues to raise major concerns in healthcare globally. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a gradual neurodegenerative brain disorder characterized by the chronic loss of cognitive and behavioral function. Recent research suggests a link between the two diseases. Considering the shared characteristics of both diseases, common therapeutic and preventive agents are effective. Certain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals found in vegetables and fruits can have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that allow for preventative or potential treatment options for T2DM and AD. Recently, it has been estimated that up to one-third of patients with diabetes use some form of complementary and alternative medicine. Increasing evidence from cell or animal models suggests that bioactive compounds may have a direct effect on reducing hyperglycemia, amplifying insulin secretion, and blocking the formation of amyloid plaques. One plant that has received substantial recognition for its numerous bioactive properties is Momordica charantia (M. charantia), otherwise known as bitter melon, bitter gourd, karela, and balsam pear. M. charantia is utilized for its glucose-lowering effects and is often used as a treatment for diabetes and related metabolic conditions amongst the indigenous populations of Asia, South America, India, and East Africa. Several pre-clinical studies have documented the beneficial effects of M. charantia through various postulated mechanisms. Throughout this review, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the bioactive components of M. charantia will be highlighted. More studies will be necessary to establish the clinical efficacy of the bioactive compounds within M. charantia to effectively determine its pertinence in the treatment of metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, such as T2DM and AD.
Rapid Changes to Endomembrane System of Infected Root Nodule Cells to Adapt to Unusual Lifestyle
Authors: Fedorova Elena E.
Published: February 2023

Symbiosis between leguminous plants and soil bacteria rhizobia is a refined type of plant–microbial interaction that has a great importance to the global balance of nitrogen. The reduction of atmospheric nitrogen takes place in infected cells of a root nodule that serves as a temporary shelter for thousands of living bacteria, which, per se, is an unusual state of a eukaryotic cell. One of the most striking features of an infected cell is the drastic changes in the endomembrane system that occur after the entrance of bacteria to the host cell symplast. Mechanisms for maintaining intracellular bacterial colony represent an important part of symbiosis that have still not been sufficiently clarified. This review focuses on the changes that occur in an endomembrane system of infected cells and on the putative mechanisms of infected cell adaptation to its unusual lifestyle.
MKP-1 Deficiency Exacerbates Skin Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of Scleroderma
Authors: Scotece Morena , Hämäläinen Mari , Leppänen Tiina , Vuolteenaho Katriina , Moilanen Eeva
Published: February 2023

Scleroderma is a chronic fibrotic disease, where proinflammatory and profibrotic events precede collagen accumulation. MKP-1 [mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatase-1] downregulates inflammatory MAPK pathways suppressing inflammation. MKP-1 also supports Th1 polarization, which could shift Th1/Th2 balance away from profibrotic Th2 profile prevalent in scleroderma. In the present study, we investigated the potential protective role of MKP-1 in scleroderma. We utilized bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis model as a well-characterized experimental model of scleroderma. Dermal fibrosis and collagen deposition as well as the expression of inflammatory and profibrotic mediators were analyzed in the skin samples. Bleomycin-induced dermal thickness and lipodystrophy were increased in MKP-1-deficient mice. MKP-1 deficiency enhanced collagen accumulation and increased expression of collagens, 1A1 and 3A1, in the dermis. Bleomycin-treated skin from MKP-1-deficient mice also showed enhanced expression of inflammatory and profibrotic factors IL-6, TGF-β1, fibronectin-1 and YKL-40, and chemokines MCP-1, MIP-1α and MIP-2, as compared to wild-type mice. The results show, for the first time, that MKP-1 protects from bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis, suggesting that MKP-1 favorably modifies inflammation and fibrotic processes that drive the pathogenesis of scleroderma. Compounds enhancing the expression or activity of MKP-1 could thus prevent fibrotic processes in scleroderma and possess potential as a novel immunomodulative drug.
Interleukin-6 and Macular Edema: A Review of Outcomes with Inhibition
Authors: Yang Janine Yunfan , Goldberg David , Sobrin Lucia
Published: February 2023

This paper describes the current literature on the molecular pathophysiology of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the genesis of macular edema and on the outcomes with IL-6 inhibitors in the treatment of non-infectious macular edema. The role of IL-6 in the development of macular edema has been well elucidated. IL-6 is produced by multiple cells of the innate immune system and leads to a higher likelihood of developing autoimmune inflammatory diseases, such as non-infectious uveitis, through a variety of mechanisms. These include increasing the helper T-cell population over the regulatory T-cell population and leading to the increased expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha. In addition to being key in the generation of uveitis and subsequent macular edema through these inflammatory pathways, IL-6 also can lead to the development of macular edema through other pathways. IL-6 induces the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and facilitates vascular leakage by downregulating tight junction proteins in retinal endothelial cells. Clinically, the use of IL-6 inhibitors has been found to be efficacious primarily in the context of treatment-resistant non-infectious uveitis and secondary macular edema. IL-6 is a key cytokine in retinal inflammation and macular edema. It is thus not surprising that the use of IL-6 inhibitors in treatment-resistant macular edema in the setting of non-infectious uveitis has been well documented as an effective treatment option. The use of IL-6 inhibitors in macular edema secondary to non-uveitic processes has only begun to be explored.
Heteromerization of Dopamine D2 and Oxytocin Receptor in Adult Striatal Astrocytes
Authors: Amato Sarah , Averna Monica , Guidolin Diego , Ceccoli Cristina , Gatta Elena , Candiani Simona , Pedrazzi Marco , Capraro Michela , Maura Guido , Agnati Luigi F. , Cervetto Chiara , Marcoli Manuela
Published: February 2023

The ability of oxytocin (OT) to interact with the dopaminergic system through facilitatory D2-OT receptor (OTR) receptor-receptor interaction in the limbic system is increasingly considered to play roles in social or emotional behavior, and suggested to serve as a potential therapeutic target. Although roles of astrocytes in the modulatory effects of OT and dopamine in the central nervous system are well recognized, the possibility of D2-OTR receptor-receptor interaction in astrocytes has been neglected. In purified astrocyte processes from adult rat striatum, we assessed OTR and dopamine D2 receptor expression by confocal analysis. The effects of activation of these receptors were evaluated in the processes through a neurochemical study of glutamate release evoked by 4-aminopyridine; D2-OTR heteromerization was assessed by co-immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assay (PLA). The structure of the possible D2-OTR heterodimer was estimated by a bioinformatic approach. We found that both D2 and OTR were expressed on the same astrocyte processes and controlled the release of glutamate, showing a facilitatory receptor-receptor interaction in the D2-OTR heteromers. Biochemical and biophysical evidence confirmed D2-OTR heterodimers on striatal astrocytes. The residues in the transmembrane domains four and five of both receptors are predicted to be mainly involved in the heteromerization. In conclusion, roles for astrocytic D2-OTR in the control of glutamatergic synapse functioning through modulation of astrocytic glutamate release should be taken into consideration when considering interactions between oxytocinergic and dopaminergic systems in striatum.
Skin-to-Skin Contact: Crucial for Improving Behavior, Immunity, and Redox State after Short Cohabitation of Chronologically Old Mice and Prematurely Aging Mice with Adult Mice
Authors: Díaz-Del Cerro Estefanía , Félix Judith , De la Fuente Mónica
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Aging is characterized by a deterioration of the homeostatic systems, namely the nervous and immune systems. The rate of aging can be modified by lifestyle factors such as social interactions. Recently, improvements in behavior, immune function, and oxidative state were observed in adult prematurely aging mice (PAM) and chronologically old mice after cohabitation with exceptional non-PAM (E-NPAM) and adult mice, respectively, for 2 months. However, the cause of this positive effect is not known. The objective of the present work was to study whether skin-to-skin contact promotes these improvements both in chronologically old mice and in adult PAM. (2) Methods: Old and adult CD1 female mice were used as well as adult PAM and E-NPAM. After cohabitation for 15 min/day for 2 months (two old mice or PAM with five adult mice or E-NPAM, respectively, with both non- and skin-to-skin contact), several behavioral tests were performed and functions and oxidative stress parameters in peritoneal leukocytes were analyzed. (3) Results: This social interaction improved behavioral responses, immune functions, redox state, and longevity, but only if the animals had skin-to-skin contact. (4) Conclusions: Physical contact seems to be crucial to experiencing the positive effects of social interaction.
Using MaxEnt Model to Predict the Potential Distribution of Three Potentially Invasive Scarab Beetles in China
Authors: Wang Shuangyi , Lu Yuanyuan , Han Mengyang , Li Lulu , He Ping , Shi Aimin , Bai Ming
Published: February 2023

A hot topic in recent years is the prediction of the potential distribution of possible invasive insects. China is facing a great challenge due to invasive insects. Scarab beetles are a highly diverse group, and many of them are well-known invasive insects. Here, in order to prevent the invasion of scarab beetles in China, we screened the invasive insects globally and obtained a preliminary database of quarantine or invasive scarab beetles. From the obtained database, we selected the top five species (Popillia japonica, Heteronychus arator, Oryctes monoceros, Oryctes boas and Amphimallon majale) to discuss and analyzed the potential distribution of three species that have not invaded China by using the MaxEnt model. The prediction results show that every continent has potential distribution areas for these species. Specifically within China, Popillia japonica and Amphimallon majale were mainly concentrated in east central regions and Heteronychus arator and Oryctes boas were mainly distributed in the southwest areas, while Oryctes monoceros has no suitable area. Notably, Yunnan, Hunan, Jiangxi and Zhejiang province had a high risk of invasion. In general, local agriculture, forestry and customs departments in China should pay more attention to monitoring for the prevention of infestation by invasive insects.
Link between Energy Investment in Biosynthesis and Proteostasis: Testing the Cost–Quality Hypothesis in Insects
Authors: Iromini Taiwo , Tang Xiaolong , Holloway Kyara N. , Hou Chen
Published: February 2023

The energy requirement for biosynthesis plays an important role in an organism’s life history, as it determines growth rate, and tradeoffs with the investment in somatic maintenance. This energetic trait is different between painted lady (Vanessa cardui) and Turkestan cockroach (Blatta lateralis) due to the different life histories. Butterfly caterpillars (holometabolous) grow 30-fold faster, and the energy cost of biosynthesis is 20 times cheaper, compared to cockroach nymphs (hemimetabolous). We hypothesize that physiologically the difference in the energy cost is partially attributed to the differences in protein retention and turnover rate: Species with higher energy cost may have a lower tolerance to errors in newly synthesized protein. Newly synthesized proteins with errors are quickly unfolded and refolded, and/or degraded and resynthesized via the proteasomal system. Thus, much protein output may be given over to replacement of the degraded new proteins, so the overall energy cost on biosynthesis is high. Consequently, the species with a higher energy cost for biosyntheses has better proteostasis and cellular resistance to stress. Our study found that, compared to painted lady caterpillars, the midgut tissue of cockroach nymphs has better cellular viability under oxidative stresses, higher activities of proteasome 20S, and a higher RNA/growth ratio, supporting our hypothesis. This comparative study offers a departure point for better understanding life history tradeoffs between somatic maintenance and biosynthesis.