bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mask-Wearing Perception of Preschool Children in Korea during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kwon Miji , Jang Eun-Mi , Yang Wonyoung
Published: September 2022

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, wearing a mask has become a daily routine in Korea over the last two years. This study aims to investigate the mask-wearing perception of preschoolers (ages 4–6). The questionnaire comprised 17 yes-no closed-ended questions and two open-ended questions, and interviews of the children were conducted from January to February 2022, 15 months after mandatory mask wearing. Results showed that children were aware of the need to wear a mask to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus, and they perceived it as necessary and a good thing. Most children responded that they did not feel uncomfortable wearing a mask at preschool. This perception was thought to be influenced by the caregivers’ perceptions of the mask in Korea. The way in which 4–5-year-olds perceived the mask differed from the way 6-year-olds did. Children aged between four and five seemed to perceive the mask as a physical self, while children aged six did not. As children who have experienced COVID-19 are growing up, attention is being focused on how the experience of wearing a mask affects their early childhood development.
Regression-Based Normative Data for Independent and Cognitively Active Spanish Older Adults: Verbal Fluency Tests and Boston Naming Test
Authors: Iñesta Clara , Oltra-Cucarella Javier , Sitges-Maciá Esther
Published: September 2022

An increased cognitive reserve is associated with changes in the pattern of cognitive decline during aging. Thus, normative data adapted to the characteristics of the target population are needed to reduce the possibility of false diagnoses. The aim of this work was to develop normative data for the Phonemic Verbal Fluency test, the Semantic Verbal Fluency test and the Boston Naming Test (BNT). Method: Regression-based normative data were calculated from a sample of 118 non-depressed, cognitively active, independent community-dwelling adults aged 55 or older (64.4% women) from SABIEX (University for Seniors at the Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche). Raw scores were regressed on age, sex, and education. Results: The effects of age and education varied across neuropsychological measures. No effect of sex was found in any of the tests assessed. Statistically significant differences were found in the proportion of low scores using SABIEX or population-based normative datasets. The level of agreement identifying individuals labeled as showing one or more low scores was only fair-to-good. Conclusions: Normative data obtained from the general population might not be sensitive to identify low scores in cognitively active older adults, increasing the risk of misdiagnoses. A friendly calculator is available for neuropsychological assessment.
Analysis of the Flammability and the Mechanical and Electrostatic Discharge Properties of Selected Personal Protective Equipment Used in Oxygen-Enriched Atmosphere in a State of Epidemic Emergency
Authors: Dowbysz Adriana , Kukfisz Bożena , Siuta Dorota , Samsonowicz Mariola , Maranda Andrzej , Kiciński Wojciech , Wróblewski Wojciech
Published: September 2022

Numerous fires occurring in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the dangers of the existence of an oxygen-enriched atmosphere. At oxygen concentrations higher than 21%, fires spread faster and more vigorously; thus, the safety of healthcare workers and patients is significantly reduced. Personal protective equipment (PPE) made mainly from plastics is combustible and directly affects their safety. The aim of this study was to assess its fire safety in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere. The thermodynamic properties, fire, and burning behavior of the selected PPE were studied, as well as its mechanical and electrostatic discharge properties. Cotton and disposable aprons were classified as combustible according to their LOI values of 17.17% and 17.39%, respectively. Conall Health A (23.37%) and B/C (23.51%) aprons and the Prion Guard suit (24.51%) were classified as self-extinguishing. The cone calorimeter test revealed that the cotton apron ignites the fastest (at 10 s), while for the polypropylene PPE, flaming combustion starts between 42 and 60 s. The highest peak heat release rates were observed for the disposable apron (62.70 kW/m2), Prion Guard suit (61.57 kW/m2), and the cotton apron (62.81 kW/m2). The mean CO yields were the lowest for these PPEs. Although the Conall Health A and B/C aprons exhibited lower pHRR values, their toxic CO yield values were the highest. The most durable fabrics of the highest maximum tensile strength were the cotton apron (592.1 N) and the Prion Guard suit (274.5 N), which also exhibited the lowest electrification capability. Both fabrics showed the best abrasion resistance of 40,000 and 38,000 cycles, respectively. The abrasion values of other fabrics were significantly lower. The research revealed that the usage of PPE made from polypropylene in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere may pose a fire risk.
Energy Poverty and Personal Health in the EU
Authors: Polimeni John M. , Simionescu Mihaela , Iorgulescu Raluca I.
Published: September 2022

The aim of this paper is to assess the impact of energy poverty on health in the EU-27 countries for the period from 2003–2020 using Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag models and generalized ridge regressions. Arrears on utility bills exerts positive long-run effects on capacity to keep the home adequately warm, current health expenditures, and self-perceived health as bad or very bad, but a negative long-run influence on energy import dependency. In the long-term, the population being unable to keep their home adequately warm positively affects self-perceived health as bad and very bad and negatively influences number of cooling days. Current health expenditure has a long-run influence on self-perceived health as bad and very bad and the number of heating days. Positive short-run impacts were observed for energy import dependency, arrears on utility bills, and number of heating days on current health expenditure and the population unable to keep their home adequately warm. People at risk of poverty or social exclusion in different zones had a significant impact on energy poverty indicators. A separate analysis is made for those EU states with the highest energy import dependency and the implications of the results are discussed.
Interstitial Pregnancy Treated with Mifepristone and Methotrexate with High Serum β-hCG Level in a Patient Wishing to Preserve Fertility: Time to Define Standardized Criteria for Medical/Surgical Therapy?
Authors: Sorrentino Felice , Vasciaveo Lorenzo , De Feo Vincenzo , Zanzarelli Erika , Grandone Elvira , Stabile Guglielmo , Nappi Luigi
Published: September 2022

Interstitial pregnancy (IP) accounts for 2% of all ectopic pregnancies and has a mortality rate of 2–2.5%. The diagnosis is made by a transvaginal ultrasound and the treatment can be medical or surgical. We report the case of a 36-year-old primigravida who was 6 + 5 weeks pregnant, diagnosed with interstitial pregnancy by ultrasound, who had a very high serum β-hCG level (31,298 mIU/mL) and wanted to preserve her fertility. The patient was treated with one dose of mifepristone and a double dose of methotrexate since the decrease in the β-hCG serum level was less than 15% after the first dose. At the beginning, medical therapy was effective, as no embryonal cardiac activity was detected and serum β-hCG levels decreased early, but on the 20th day of hospitalization, the patient underwent surgery for her clinical symptoms and the evidence of free fluid in the Douglas pouch at a transvaginal ultrasound exam. Our experience showed that medical treatment should be considered, especially in women wishing to preserve their fertility. Further studies are needed to establish a standardized protocol and maybe a clinical score that can be useful in predicting the patients in which medical therapy could be most successful.
Association between 3-Year Repetitive Isolated Hematuria and eGFR Deterioration in an Apparently Healthy Population: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ishida Mami , Matsuzaki Keiichi , Suzuki Hitoshi , Suzuki Yusuke , Kawamura Takashi , Marunaka Yoshinori , Iwami Taku
Published: September 2022

Microscopic hematuria is being increasingly recognized as a major indicator of kidney deterioration. Persistent hematuria may better detect estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) deterioration and potential glomerulonephritis. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to investigate the associations between persistent hematuria: the frequency or consistency of positive dipstick hematuria defined by the preceding 3 years urinalyses, and eGFR deterioration over 5 years and abnormal urinalyses suggesting potential glomerulonephritis (hematuria 1+ or higher, 2+ or higher, proteinuria, and hematuria and proteinuria) 5 years later, among adult participants with positive dipstick hematuria at baseline in a large-scale Japanese health checkup setting (n = 2104). There was no significant association between persistent hematuria and eGFR deterioration over 5 years. The higher the frequency of preceding hematuria, the greater the RR of hematuria 5 years later; RRs of hematuria with preceding thrice, twice, or once hematuria were 3.64 [95% CI, 3.11–4.25], 2.97 [95% CI, 2.52–3.51], or 1.91 [95% CI, 1.58–2.30] for “hematuria 1+ or higher,” and 7.13 [95% CI, 5.17–9.83], 4.26 [95% CI, 3.02–6.02], or 2.23 [95% CI, 1.52–3.27] for “hematuria 2+ or higher”. The presence of both hematuria and proteinuria 5 years later was only associated with preceding thrice hematuria (RR: 2.35 [95% CI, 1.37–4.03]). In conclusion, persistent hematuria for 3 years was associated with hematuria and proteinuria that were suggesting glomerulonephritis, but not associated with eGFR deterioration over 5 years. Multiple dipstick urinalyses over years can add some values to detect potential glomerulonephritis as an early sign of chronic kidney diseases.
Transcriptional Responses of Stress-Related Genes in Pale Chub (Zacco platypus) Inhabiting Different Aquatic Environments: Application for Biomonitoring Aquatic Ecosystems
Authors: Kim Won-Seok , Park Kiyun , Park Jae-Won , Lee Sun-Ho , Kim Ji-Hoon , Kim Yong-Jun , Oh Gun-Hee , Ko Bong-Soon , Park Ji-Won , Hong Cheol , Yu Tae-Sik , Kwak Ihn-Sil
Published: September 2022

Pale chub (Zacco platypus) is a dominant species in urban rivers and reservoirs, and it is used as an indicator to monitor the effects of environmental contaminants. Gene responses at the molecular level can reflect the health of fish challenged with environmental stressors. The objective of this study was to identify correlations between water quality factors and the expression of stress-related genes in Z. platypus from different lake environments (Singal and Juam Lakes). To do so, transcriptional responses of genes involving cellular homeostasis (heat-shock protein 70, HSP70; heat-shock protein 90, HSP90), metal detoxification (metallothionein, MT), and antioxidation (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT) were analyzed in the gill and liver tissues of Z. platypus. HSP70, HSP90, and MT genes were overall upregulated in Z. platypus from Singal Lake, which suffered from poorer water quality than Juam Lake. In addition, gene responses were significantly higher in Singal Lake outflow. Upregulation of HSP70, HSP90, and MT was significantly higher in Z. platypus gills than in the liver tissue. In addition, integrated biomarker response and heatmap analysis determined correlations between expression of biomarker genes or water quality factors and sampling sites of both lakes. These results suggest that stress-related genes used as multiple biomarkers may reflect spatial characteristics and water quality of different lake environments, and they can be used for biomonitoring and ecological risk assessment.
Villagers’ Satisfaction Evaluation System of Rural Human Settlement Construction: Empirical Study of Suzhou in China’s Rapid Urbanization Area
Authors: Ye Lu , Wu Zihao , Wang Ting , Ding Kangle , Chen Yu
Published: September 2022

Continuous improvement of rural human settlements is a major realistic requirement of China’s economic and social development in the context of rural revitalization. Tracking and evaluating the phased progress of human settlement construction in stages represent important techniques for ensuring continual improvement. To improve the current objective data-based index system, this paper focuses on the villager-centered evaluation system at the village level. Factor analysis is used to screen the original data from the questionnaire and minimize the dimensions to synthesize common factors on the basis of empirical results. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) according to weight, the satisfaction evaluation system includes five common factors: living support facilities, nonagricultural industry income, agriculture production income, transportation infrastructure, and comprehensive ecological improvement. The results show that construction investment is beneficial, but not directly proportional to the villagers’ satisfaction. Actual improvement is not keeping up with the demand for public fitness, cultural, and recreational facilities. On the other hand, changes in villagers’ lifestyles may reduce the need for commercial facilities; (2) according to the evaluation model, the indicators can be classified into four categories on the basis of the weight assessment score, all of which can provide differentiated construction strategies to avoid duplication and inefficient resource waste. The survey data’s indicators of major differences between villages, such as public transportation and sanitation, need further discussion; (3) the gap between actual improvement actions and villagers’ needs gives an optimization path for rural construction. The experiences of sample villages in well-developed areas can be used as a model for policy formulation in other regions, and a long-term follow-up investigation should be included in future studies.
Potential Protective Role of Galectin-3 in Patients with Gonarthrosis and Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Milosevic Jelena , Jurisevic Milena , Grbovic Vesna , Jovanovic Ivan , Gajovic Nevena , Jurisic-Skevin Aleksandra
Published: September 2022

Background: Gonarthrosis and diabetes mellitus are two diseases that are increasingly being linked. The aim of this study was to quantify serum levels of Gal-3, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (including their ratios and correlations), and participant’s condition (pain, stiffness, functional limitations) in gonarthrosis patients with and without diabetes mellitus. Methods: A between-subject, cross-sectional experimental design was adopted. Serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12, IL-23, IFN-γ, IL-17, IL-10, Gal-3, and WOMAC score were measured. Results: Gonarthrosis patients with diabetes mellitus had significantly (p < 0.05) lower levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17, IFN-γ, and Gal-3 compared to gonarthrosis patients without diabetes mellitus. On the other hand, IL-10/TNF-α, IL-10/IL-6, IL-10/IL-12, Gal-3/TNF-α, Gal-3/IL-6, and Gal-3/IL-12 (p = 0.001) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in gonarthrosis with diabetes mellitus. Moderate–large correlation (p < 0.05) was detected between the serum values of Gal-3 and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-12 (r = 0.575), IL-10 (r = 0.535), TNF-α (r = 0.306), and IL-23 (r = 0.323). WOMAC index was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in gonarthrosis patients without diabetes mellitus compared to gonarthrosis patients with diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: Correlation between Gal-3 and proinflammatory cytokines and its dominance over proinflammatory cytokines implicate the potential role of Gal-3 in preventing cartilage destruction.
The Impact of a Communication Training on the Birth Experience: Qualitative Interviews with Mothers after Giving Birth at Obstetric University Departments in Germany
Authors: Schmiedhofer Martina , Derksen Christina , Dietl Johanna Elisa , Haeussler Freya , Strametz Reinhard , Huener Beate , Lippke Sonia
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: Patient safety is a pressing issue in healthcare. Besides economical and organizational issues, human factors play a crucial role in providing safe care. Safe and clear communication on both the healthcare workers’ and patients’ sides contribute to the avoidance of medical errors and increase patients’ and healthcare workers’ satisfaction. Globally, the incidence of experiencing at least one adverse event in obstetrics is about 10%, of which half are classified as preventable. According to international research, improving communication skills may decrease preventable adverse events. The research question was to what extent communication training for pregnant women impacts the quality of communication and mutual understanding during birth. (2) Methods: Communication interventions with pregnant women were conducted in two German university obstetric departments in a mixed methods research design, based on the Health Action Process Approach. The online classes covered the awareness of personal wishes, the understanding and usage of communication strategies, self-efficacy and empathy. This study presents the qualitative results. Out of 142 mothers who answered two questionnaires before the communication training and after the birth, 24 in-depth semistructured interviews were conducted to explore the subjective impact of the communication training. The results were analyzed with qualitative content analysis. (3) Results: The majority of participants felt incentivized to be aware of their personal wishes for birth and to express them. Perceived positive experiences with sufficient competency in communication, empathy and mutual understanding outweighed negative treatments and experiences in the hospital, some of which could be attributed to structural problems. (4) Discussion: The reported positive effects of the communication training underline the need but also the potential for communication lessons to reflect and improve communication skills in obstetrics. However, negative experiences due to structural problems in the healthcare system may be buffered by communication skills but not solved.
Body Dissatisfaction, Distorted Body Image and Disordered Eating Behaviors in University Students: An Analysis from 2017–2022
Authors: Jiménez-Limas Karime , Miranda-Barrera Verónica Anayansi , Muñoz-Díaz Karla Fernanda , Novales-Huidobro Samantha Ruth , Chico-Barba Gabriela
Published: September 2022

University students, as young adults, are at risk for Body Dissatisfaction (BD) and Distorted Body Image (DBI), which are related to Disordered Eating Behaviors (DEBs). This study aimed to assess changes in the prevalence of these three conditions over six years; and the associations between them. Data was collected through an annual online survey from 2017 to 2022 at a private university in Mexico City. Students between 18–30 years old were invited to participate. Body image-related variables were assessed by the Stunkard’s Silhouettes and Body Mass Index, by self-reported height and weight. Disordered Eating Behaviors were measured by the Brief Disordered Eating Behaviors Questionnaire. A median of 250 students participated per year, with a median age of 21 years old. The prevalence was 63.5–71.7% for BD, 40.4–49.1% for DBI, and 25–38.3% for DEBs. DEBs and BD showed associations during the whole period (OR from 3.6 to 15.9, p ≤ 0.001); as well as DBI with DEBs (OR from 1.9 to 3.3, p < 0.05). Alterations in Body Image and eating behaviors are common conditions, mainly in women and in the young population. Therefore, it is important to promote screening for these conditions, as they usually remain undiagnosed, their prevalence is increasing worldwide, and their impact on physical and mental health has already been acknowledged.
New Inhibitors of the Human p300/CBP Acetyltransferase Are Selectively Active against the Arabidopsis HAC Proteins
Authors: Longo Chiara , Lepri Andrea , Paciolla Andrea , Messore Antonella , De Vita Daniela , Bonaccorsi di Patti Maria Carmela , Amadei Matteo , Madia Valentina Noemi , Ialongo Davide , Di Santo Roberto , Costi Roberta , Vittorioso Paola
Published: September 2022

Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) are involved in the epigenetic positive control of gene expression in eukaryotes. CREB-binding proteins (CBP)/p300, a subfamily of highly conserved HATs, have been shown to function as acetylases on both histones and non-histone proteins. In the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana among the five CBP/p300 HATs, HAC1, HAC5 and HAC12 have been shown to be involved in the ethylene signaling pathway. In addition, HAC1 and HAC5 interact and cooperate with the Mediator complex, as in humans. Therefore, it is potentially difficult to discriminate the effect on plant development of the enzymatic activity with respect to their Mediator-related function. Taking advantage of the homology of the human HAC catalytic domain with that of the Arabidopsis, we set-up a phenotypic assay based on the hypocotyl length of Arabidopsis dark-grown seedlings to evaluate the effects of a compound previously described as human p300/CBP inhibitor, and to screen previously described cinnamoyl derivatives as well as newly synthesized analogues. We selected the most effective compounds, and we demonstrated their efficacy at phenotypic and molecular level. The in vitro inhibition of the enzymatic activity proved the specificity of the inhibitor on the catalytic domain of HAC1, thus substantiating this strategy as a useful tool in plant epigenetic studies.
Structural Significance of His73 in F-Actin Dynamics: Insights from Ab Initio Study
Authors: Li Tong , Du Juan , Ren Mingfa
Published: September 2022

F-actin dynamics (polymerization and depolymerization) are associated with nucleotide exchange, providing the driving forces for dynamic cellular activities. As an important residue in the nucleotide state-sensing region in actin, His73 is often found to be methylated in natural actin and directly participates in F-actin dynamics by regulating nucleotide exchange. The interaction between His73 and its neighboring residue, Gly158, has significance for F-actin dynamics. However, this weak chemical interaction is difficult to characterize using classic molecular modeling methods. In this study, ab initio modeling was employed to explore the binding energy between His73 and Gly158. The results confirm that the methyl group on the His73 side chain contributes to the structural stability of atomistic networks in the nucleotide state-sensing region of actin monomers and confines the material exchange (Pi release) pathway within F-actin dynamics. Further binding energy analyses of actin structures under different nucleotide states showed that the potential model of His73/Gly158 hydrogen bond breaking in the material exchange mechanism is not obligatory within F-actin dynamics.
First Discovery of Beta-Sitosterol as a Novel Antiviral Agent against White Spot Syndrome Virus
Authors: Chen Cheng , Shen Jing-Lei , Liang Chang-Shuai , Sun Zhong-Chen , Jiang Hai-Feng
Published: September 2022

The outbreak of white spot syndrome (WSS) is a looming challenge, due to dramatic losses to the crustacean aquaculture industry. However, at present, there are no prophylactic or therapeutic means to control this infectious viral disease. Here, we screened fifteen medicinal plants for their inhibitory activity on the white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), using red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) as a model species. The results showed that the crude extracts of Pinellia ternata (Thunb.) Breit. had the highest inhibitory effect (91.59%, 100 mg/kg) on WSSV proliferation, and its main component, beta-sitosterol, showed a much higher activity (95.79%, 50 mg/kg). Further, beta-sitosterol potently reduced (p < 0.01) viral loads and viral gene transcription levels in a concentration-dependent fashion, and significantly promoted the survival rate of WSSV-challenged crayfish (57.14%, 50 mg/kg). The co-incubation assay indicated that beta-sitosterol did not influence the infectivity of WSSV particles. Both pre- and post-treatment of beta-sitosterol exerted a significant inhibitory effect (p < 0.01) on the viral load in vivo. Mechanistically, beta-sitosterol not only interfered with the expression of viral genes (immediate early gene 1, ie1; DNA polymerase, DNApol) that are important in initiating WSSV transcription, but it also attenuated the hijacking of innate immune signaling pathways (Toll, IMD, and JAK/STAT pathways) by viral genes to block WSSV replication. Moreover, the expression of several antiviral immune, antioxidant, pro-inflammatory, and apoptosis-related genes changed significantly in beta-sitosterol-treated crayfish. Beta-sitosterol is a potent WSSV inhibitor and has the potential to be developed as an effective anti-WSSV agent against a WSS outbreak in crustacean aquaculture.
Proteomic Analysis Identifies Molecular Players and Biological Processes Specific to SARS-CoV-2 Exposure in Endothelial Cells
Authors: de Melo Thatiana Corrêa , Trevisan-Silva Dilza , Alvarez-Flores Miryam P. , Gomes Renata Nascimento , de Souza Marcelo Medina , Valerio Hellen Paula , Oliveira Douglas S. , DeOcesano-Pereira Carlos , Botosso Viviane Fongaro , Calil Jorge Soraia Attie , Schattner Mirta , Gomez Ricardo M. , Chudzinski-Tavassi Ana Marisa
Published: September 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been responsible for the severe pandemic of acute respiratory disease, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), experienced in the 21st century. The clinical manifestations range from mild symptoms to abnormal blood coagulation and severe respiratory failure. In severe cases, COVID-19 manifests as a thromboinflammatory disease. Damage to the vascular compartment caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been linked to thrombosis, triggered by an enhanced immune response. The molecular mechanisms underlying endothelial activation have not been fully elucidated. We aimed to identify the proteins correlated to the molecular response of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) after exposure to SARS-CoV-2, which might help to unravel the molecular mechanisms of endothelium activation in COVID-19. In this direction, we exposed HUVECs to SARS-CoV-2 and analyzed the expression of specific cellular receptors, and changes in the proteome of HUVECs at different time points. We identified that HUVECs exhibit non-productive infection without cytopathic effects, in addition to the lack of expression of specific cell receptors known to be essential for SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells. We highlighted the enrichment of the protein SUMOylation pathway and the increase in SUMO2, which was confirmed by orthogonal assays. In conclusion, proteomic analysis revealed that the exposure to SARS-CoV-2 induced oxidative stress and changes in protein abundance and pathways enrichment that resembled endothelial dysfunction.
Effects of Sterilization and Hydrolytic Degradation on the Structure, Morphology and Compressive Strength of Polylactide-Hydroxyapatite Composites
Authors: Kasprzak Mirosław , Szabłowska Agnieszka , Kurzyk Agata , Tymowicz-Grzyb Paulina , Najmrodzki Adrian , Woźniak Anna , Antosik Agnieszka , Pagacz Joanna , Szterner Piotr , Plichta Andrzej , Wieciński Piotr , Rusek-Wala Paulina , Krupa Agnieszka , Płociński Przemysław , Rudnicka Karolina , Biernat Monika
Published: September 2022

Composites based on polylactide (PLA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) were prepared using a thermally induced phase separation method. In the experimental design, the PLA with low weight-average molar mass (Mw) and high Mw were tested with the inclusion of HA synthesized as whiskers or hexagonal rods. In addition, the structure of HA whiskers was doped with Zn, whereas hexagonal rods were mixed with Sr salt. The composites were sterilized and then incubated in phosphate-buffered saline for 12 weeks at 37 °C, followed by characterization of pore size distribution, molecular properties, density and mechanical strength. Results showed a substantial reduction of PLA Mw for both polymers due to the preparation of composites, their sterilization and incubation. The distribution of pore size effectively increased after the degradation process, whereas the sterilization, furthermore, had an impact on pore size distribution depending on HA added. The inclusion of HA reduced to some extent the degradation of PLA quantitatively in the weight loss in vitro compared to the control without HA. All produced materials showed no cytotoxicity when validated against L929 mouse skin fibroblasts and hFOB 1.19 human osteoblasts. The lack of cytotoxicity was accompanied by the immunocompatibility with human monocytic cells that were able to detect pyrogenic contaminants.
Effects of Nitrogen Supply on Induced Defense in Maize (Zea mays) against Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda)
Authors: Wang Wenxin , Wang Xiaoyi , Liao Huimin , Feng Yuanjiao , Guo Yeshan , Shu Yinghua , Wang Jianwu
Published: September 2022

How nitrogen (N) supply affects the induced defense of plants remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the impacts of N supply on the defense induced in maize (Zea mays) against the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). In the absence of herbivore attack or exogenous jasmonic acid (JA) application, N supply increased plant biomass and enhanced maize nutrient (soluble sugar and amino acid) contents and leaf area fed by S. frugiperda (the feeding leaf area of S. frugiperda larvae in maize supplemented with 52.2 and 156.6 mg/kg of N was 4.08 and 3.83 times that of the control, respectively). When coupled with herbivore attack or JA application, maize supplemented with 52.2 mg/kg of N showed an increased susceptibility to pests, while the maize supplemented with 156.6 mg/kg of N showed an improved defense against pests. The changes in the levels of nutrients, and the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) caused by N supply could explain the above opposite induced defense in maize. Compared with herbivore attack treatment, JA application enhanced the insect resistance in maize supplemented with 156.6 mg/kg of N more intensely, mainly reflecting a smaller feeding leaf area, which was due to indole emission and two upregulated defensive genes, MPI (maize proteinase inhibitor) and PAL (phenylalanine ammonia-lyase). Hence, the optimal N level and appropriate JA application can enhance plant-induced defense against pests.
Pomegranate Extract Augments Energy Expenditure Counteracting the Metabolic Stress Associated with High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Reguero Marina , Gómez de Cedrón Marta , Sierra-Ramírez Aranzazu , Fernández-Marcos Pablo José , Reglero Guillermo , Quintela José Carlos , Ramírez de Molina Ana
Published: September 2022

Obesity is associated to a low grade of chronic inflammation leading to metabolic stress, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, dislipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. A Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce systemic inflammatory factors, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. In this scenario, precision nutrition may provide complementary approaches to target the metabolic alterations associated to “unhealthy obesity”. In a previous work, we described a pomegranate extract (PomE) rich in punicalagines to augment markers of browning and thermogenesis in human differentiated adipocytes and to augment the oxidative respiratory capacity in human differentiated myocytes. Herein, we have conducted a preclinical study of high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced obesity where PomE augments the systemic energy expenditure (EE) contributing to a reduction in the low grade of chronic inflammation and insulin resistance associated to obesity. At the molecular level, PomE promotes browning and thermogenesis in adipose tissue, reducing inflammatory markers and augmenting the reductive potential to control the oxidative stress associated to the HFD. PomE merits further investigation as a complementary approach to alleviate obesity, reducing the low grade of chronic inflammation and metabolic stress.
The Toxicity, Sublethal Effects, and Biochemical Mechanism of β-Asarone, a Potential Plant-Derived Insecticide, against Bemisia tabaci
Authors: Wang Ran , Fang Yong , Che Wunan , Zhang Qinghe , Wang Jinda , Luo Chen
Published: September 2022

Bemisia tabaci is a threat to agriculture worldwide because of its potential to cause devastating damage to various crops. β-asarone is a bioactive pesticidal chemical originating from Acorus calamus (or “Sweet Flag”) plants, and it displays significant lethal effects against insect pests. In this study, we established a baseline of susceptibility to β-asarone from China and patterns of cross-resistance to other popular insecticides. We found that all the 12 field-collected B. tabaci populations exhibited high susceptibility to β-asarone, and there was no cross-resistance detected for other tested insecticides. We subsequently evaluated the sublethal effects of β-asarone on physiology and biochemistry via LC25 treatment (4.7 mg/L). LC25 of β-asarone resulted in prolonged developmental duration and decreased survival rates in B. tabaci nymphs, pseudopupae, and adults. Significant reductions in oviposition duration, fecundity, and hatchability were also observed. Additionally, the metabolic enzyme activity and expression profiles of selected cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (P450) genes following the LC25 treatment of β-asarone suggest that enhanced detoxification via P450s could be involved in the observed sublethal effects. These findings demonstrate the strong toxicity and significant sublethal effects of β-asarone on B. tabaci and suggest that the induced overexpression of P450 genes could be associated with the response to β-asarone.
In Vitro Characterization of the Physical Interactions between the Long Noncoding RNA TERRA and the Telomeric Proteins TRF1 and TRF2
Authors: Abreu Patricia L. , Lee Yong Woo , Azzalin Claus M.
Published: September 2022

RNA-protein interactions drive key cellular pathways such as protein translation, nuclear organization and genome stability maintenance. The human telomeric protein TRF2 binds to the long noncoding RNA TERRA through independent domains, including its N-terminal B domain. We previously demonstrated that TRF2 B domain binding to TERRA supports invasion of TERRA into telomeric double stranded DNA, leading to the formation of telomeric RNA:DNA hybrids. The other telomeric protein TRF1, which also binds to TERRA, suppresses this TRF2-associated activity by preventing TERRA-B domain interactions. Herein, we show that the binding of both TRF1 and TRF2 to TERRA depends on the ability of the latter to form G-quadruplex structures. Moreover, a cluster of arginines within the B domain is largely responsible for its binding to TERRA. On the other side, a patch of glutamates within the N-terminal A domain of TRF1 mainly accounts for the inhibition of TERRA-B domain complex formation. Finally, mouse TRF2 B domain binds to TERRA, similarly to its human counterpart, while mouse TRF1 A domain lacks the inhibitory activity. Our data shed further light on the complex crosstalk between telomeric proteins and RNAs and suggest a lack of functional conservation in mouse.
MicroRNAs in Medicinal Plants
Authors: Sun Mingyang , Xu Shiqiang , Mei Yu , Li Jingyu , Gu Yan , Zhang Wenting , Wang Jihua
Published: September 2022

Medicinal plant microRNAs (miRNAs) are an endogenous class of small RNA central to the posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression. Biosynthetic research has shown that the mature miRNAs in medicinal plants can be produced from either the standard messenger RNA splicing mechanism or the pre-ribosomal RNA splicing process. The medicinal plant miRNA function is separated into two levels: (1) the cross-kingdom level, which is the regulation of disease-related genes in animal cells by oral intake, and (2) the intra-kingdom level, which is the participation of metabolism, development, and stress adaptation in homologous or heterologous plants. Increasing research continues to enrich the biosynthesis and function of medicinal plant miRNAs. In this review, peer-reviewed papers on medicinal plant miRNAs published on the Web of Science were discussed, covering a total of 78 species. The feasibility of the emerging role of medicinal plant miRNAs in regulating animal gene function was critically evaluated. Staged progress in intra-kingdom miRNA research has only been found in a few medicinal plants, which may be mainly inhibited by their long growth cycle, high demand for growth environment, immature genetic transformation, and difficult RNA extraction. The present review clarifies the research significance, opportunities, and challenges of medicinal plant miRNAs in drug development and agricultural production. The discussion of the latest results furthers the understanding of medicinal plant miRNAs and helps the rational design of the corresponding miRNA/target genes functional modules.
Identification of Adipose Tissue as a Reservoir of Macrophages after Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Gomez Ingrid , Robert Virginie , Alayrac Paul , Arlat Adèle , Duval Vincent , Renoud Marie-Laure , Vilar José , Lemitre Mathilde , Silvestre Jean-Sébastien , Cousin Béatrice
Published: September 2022

Medullary and extra-medullary hematopoiesis has been shown to govern inflammatory cell infiltration and subsequently cardiac remodeling and function after acute myocardial infarction (MI). Emerging evidence positions adipose tissue (AT) as an alternative source of immune cell production. We, therefore, hypothesized that AT could act as a reservoir of inflammatory cells that participate in cardiac homeostasis after MI. To reveal the distinct role of inflammatory cells derived from AT or bone marrow (BM), chimeric mice were generated using standard repopulation assays. We showed that AMI increased the number of AT-derived macrophages in the cardiac tissue. These macrophages exhibit pro-inflammatory characteristics and their specific depletion improved cardiac function as well as decreased infarct size and interstitial fibrosis. We then reasoned that the alteration of AT-immune compartment in type 2 diabetes could, thus, contribute to defects in cardiac remodeling. However, in these conditions, myeloid cells recruited in the infarcted heart mainly originate from the BM, and AT was no longer used as a myeloid cell reservoir. Altogether, we showed here that a subpopulation of cardiac inflammatory macrophages emerges from myeloid cells of AT origin and plays a detrimental role in cardiac remodeling and function after MI. Diabetes abrogates the ability of AT-derived myeloid cells to populate the infarcted heart.
Molecular Mechanisms of Drug Resistance and Epidemiology of Multidrug-Resistant Variants of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Mlynarczyk-Bonikowska Beata , Kowalewski Cezary , Krolak-Ulinska Aneta , Marusza Wojciech
Published: September 2022

The paper presents various issues related to the increasing drug resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and the occurrence and spread of multidrug-resistant clones. One of the most important is the incidence and evolution of resistance mechanisms of N. gonorrhoeae to beta-lactam antibiotics. Chromosomal resistance to penicillins and oxyimino-cephalosporins and plasmid resistance to penicillins are discussed. Chromosomal resistance is associated with the presence of mutations in the PBP2 protein, containing mosaic variants and nonmosaic amino acid substitutions in the transpeptidase domain, and their correlation with mutations in the mtrR gene and its promoter regions (the MtrCDE membrane pump repressor) and in several other genes, which together determine reduced sensitivity or resistance to ceftriaxone and cefixime. Plasmid resistance to penicillins results from the production of beta-lactamases. There are different types of beta-lactamases as well as penicillinase plasmids. In addition to resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, the paper covers the mechanisms and occurrence of resistance to macrolides (azithromycin), fluoroquinolones and some other antibiotics. Moreover, the most important epidemiological types of multidrug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae, prevalent in specific years and regions, are discussed. Epidemiological types are defined as sequence types, clonal complexes and genogroups obtained by various typing systems such as NG-STAR, NG-MAST and MLST. New perspectives on the treatment of N. gonorrhoeae infections are also presented, including new drugs active against multidrug-resistant strains.
Combined PARP and Dual Topoisomerase Inhibition Potentiates Genome Instability and Cell Death in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Flörkemeier Inken , Hillmann Julia S. , Weimer Jörg P. , Hildebrandt Jonas , Hedemann Nina , Rogmans Christoph , Dempfle Astrid , Arnold Norbert , Clement Bernd , Bauerschlag Dirk O.
Published: September 2022

Although ovarian cancer is a rare disease, it constitutes the fifth leading cause of cancer death among women. It is of major importance to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve survival. Combining P8-D6, a novel dual topoisomerase inhibitor with exceptional anti-tumoral properties in ovarian cancer and compounds in preclinical research, and olaparib, a PARP inhibitor targeting DNA damage repair, is a promising approach. P8-D6 induces DNA damage that can be repaired by base excision repair or homologous recombination in which PARP plays a major role. This study analyzed benefits of combining P8-D6 and olaparib treatment in 2D and 3D cultures with ovarian cancer cells. Measurement of viability, cytotoxicity and caspase activity were used to assess therapy efficacy and to calculate the combination index (CI). Further DNA damage was quantified using the biomarkers RAD51 and γH2A.X. The combinational treatment led to an increased caspase activity and reduced viability. CI values partially show synergisms in combinations at 100 nM and 500 nM P8-D6. More DNA damage accumulated, and spheroids lost their membrane integrity due to the combinational treatment. While maintaining the same therapy efficacy as single-drug therapy, doses of P8-D6 and olaparib can be reduced in combinational treatments. Synergisms can be seen in some tested combinations. In summary, the combination therapy indicates benefits and acts synergistic at 100 nM and 500 nM P8-D6.
Characteristics and Fitness Analysis through Interspecific Hybrid Progenies of Transgenic Brassica napus and B. rapa L. ssp.
Authors: Sohn Soo-In , Thamilarasan Senthil Kumar , Pandian Subramani , Oh Young-Ju , Kang Hyeon-Jung , Shin Eun-Kyoung
Published: September 2022

Interspecific hybridization between transgenic crops and their wild relatives is a major concern for transgene dispersal in the environment. Under controlled conditions, artificial hand pollination experiments were performed in order to assess the hybridization potential and the fitness of interspecific hybrids between Brassica rapa and genetically modified (GM) Brassica napus. Initially, six subspecies of B. rapa were hybridized with GM B. napus through hand pollination. In the resulting F1 hybrids, the combination of B. rapa ssp. narinosa (♀) × GM B. napus (♂) had the highest crossability index (16.9 ± 2.6). However, the F1 selfing progenies of B. rapa ssp. rapa (♀) × GM B. napus were found to be more effective in producing viable future generations with the highest crossability index (1.6 ± 0.69) compared to other subspecies. Consequently, they were used for the generation of F2 and F3 progenies. The 18 different morphological characteristics among the parental cross-combinations and F1 hybrid progenies were measured and visualized through hierarchical clustering. Different generations were found to be grouped based on their different morphological characteristics. The chromosome numbers among the interspecific hybrids ranged from 2n = 29 to 2n = 40. Furthermore, the SSR markers revealed the presence of genomic portions in the hybrids in comparison with their parental lines. There is a high possibility of transgene flow between GM B. napus and B. rapa. The study concluded that the interspecific hybrids between B. napus and B. rapa can be viable and can actively hybridize up to F3 generations and more. This suggests that the GM B. napus can disperse the transgene into B. rapa, and that it can pass through for several generations by hand pollination in a greenhouse environment.
Flow Cytometric Identification of Hematopoietic and Leukemic Blast Cells for Tailored Clinical Follow-Up of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Weeda Vera , Mestrum Stefan G. C. , Leers Math P. G.
Published: September 2022

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a myeloid malignancy that is characterized by the accumulation of leukemic blast cells, which originate from hematopoietic stem cells that have undergone leukemic transformation and/or are more mature progenitors that have gained stemness features. Currently, no consensus exists for the flow cytometric identification of normal blast cells and their leukemic counterparts by their antigenic expression profile. Differentiating between the benign cells and the malignant cells is crucial for the further deployment of immunophenotype panels for the clinical follow-up of AML patients. This review provides an overview of immunophenotypic markers that allow the identification of leukemic blast cells in the bone marrow with multiparameter flow cytometry. This technique allows the identification of hematopoietic blast cells at the level of maturing cells by their antigen expression profile. While aberrant antigen expression of a single immunophenotypic marker cell cannot be utilized in order to differentiate leukemic blast cells from normal blast cells, combinations of multiple immunophenotypic markers can enable the distinction of normal and leukemic blast cells. The identification of these markers has provided new perspectives for tailored clinical follow-up, including therapy management, diagnostics, and prognostic purposes. The immunophenotypic marker panels, however, should be developed by carefully considering the variable antigen marker expression profile of individual patients.
Vitamin D as a Possible COVID-19 Prevention Strategy
Authors: Bičíková Marie , Máčová Ludmila , Hill Martin
Published: September 2022

Vitamin D is no longer considered an agent only affecting calcium phosphate metabolism. A number of studies over the past few years have demonstrated its role in immunomodulation and its influence on the development and functioning of the brain and nervous system. In the current epidemiological crisis caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the immunoprotective role of vitamin D has been discussed by some authors regarding whether it contributes to protection against this serious disease or whether its use does not play a role. Non-standard approaches taken by laboratories in examining the serum levels of the vitamin D metabolite calcidiol have contributed to inconsistent results. We examined the serum of 60 volunteers in the spring and autumn of 2021 who declared whether they were taking vitamin D at the time of sampling. Furthermore, the tested participants noted whether they had experienced COVID-19. A newly developed liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was used to measure calcidiol levels. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) model of Statgraphics Centurion 18 statistical software from Statgraphics Technologies was used for calculations. The results of this study showed that those who took vitamin D suffered significantly less often from COVID-19 than those who did not take vitamin D.