bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immobilization of Pb and Zn in Contaminated Soil Using Alumina–Silica Nano-Amendments Synthesized from Coal Fly Ash
Authors: Lei Chang , Huang Hao , Ye Haoxin , Fu Zhiping , Peng Peipei , Zhang Shaoqing , Long Laishou
Published: December 2022

To apply coal fly ash to the remediation of heavy-metal-contaminated soil, an alumina–silica nano-amendment (ASNA) was synthesized from coal fly ash and was used for the immobilization of lead and zinc in contaminated soil. The investigation on the synthesis of the ASNA shows that the ASNA can be obtained under a roasting temperature of 700 °C, a ratio of alkali to coal fly ash of 1.2:1, and a molar ratio of silicon to aluminum of 1:1. The ASNA could increase the soil pH and cation exchange capacity (CEC) and decrease the bioavailability of Pb and Zn. When the ASNA addition increased from 0 to 2%, the bioavailability (extracted by CaCl2) of Pb and Zn decreased by 47% and 72%, respectively. Moreover, the addition of the ASNA facilitated the transformation of Pb from a reducible fraction to oxidizable and residual fractions and Zn from an exchangeable fraction to a residual fraction. The correlation analysis and cluster analysis verify that the ASNA modulates the chemical speciation of heavy metals by increasing the soil’s CEC and pH, thereby immobilizing heavy metals. It is expected that this study can provide a new method for the remediation of Pb- and Zn-contaminated soil.
Community Cardiac Arrest as a Challenge for Emergency Medical Services in Poland
Authors: Żuratyński Przemysław , Ślęzak Daniel , Krzyżanowski Kamil , Robakowska Marlena , Ulenberg Grzegorz
Published: December 2022

The problem of cardiac arrest, particularly out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), is the subject of continuous research. The aim of this study was to analyze the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) during the resuscitation of an adult in public places in Poland between 2015 and 2020. A retrospective analysis of the selected documentation obtained from AED distributors, the medical records obtained from the emergency call center, and the emergency medical teams was conducted. During the analysis period, there were 100 cases of recorded and documented use of AEDs in OHCAs in public places. In 70% of the cases, defibrillation was performed with an AED. This result could be higher, but the study’s methodology and limited access to data only allowed for this result. In Poland, there are no legal acts on the registration of automatic external defibrillators and their implementation. Appropriate registries should be introduced nationwide as soon as possible. Due to the inadequacy of the medical records of the emergency medical teams to record the use of automated external defibrillators by a bystander to an incident, changes to these documents should be pursued. Based on such a small cohort, it is not possible to conclude that the return of spontaneous blood circulation is correlated with the use of AEDs and public access to defibrillation PADs.
Network Diversity and Health Change among International Migrants in China: Evidence from Foreigners in Changchun
Authors: Wang Wenbin , Cao Yang
Published: December 2022

Objective: Is the migration process likely to lead to sustained changes in individual social networks and health status? There are many controversies about the relationship between migrants’ networks and migrants’ health. An important reason may be that the constraints of specific social contexts on immigrant networks and health consequences are neglected. This study distinguished two types of social networks of international immigrants to China—their Chinese networks (Chinese-Net) and home-country networks (Motherland-Net). In addition, the study investigated the construction basis of immigrant social networks and health effects based on the Chinese context. Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2017, 2018, and 2019. The survey was carried out by an on-site questionnaire survey of foreigners in China in the entry-exit hall of the National Immigration Administration. The survey asked foreigners about their immigration experience, labor and employment, social networks, and access to health care. Results and conclusions: Immigrants from more developed countries are more likely to succeed in establishing Chinese-Net and reduce the dependence on Motherland-Net. The Japanese and South Korean immigrants tended to be associated with their home-country compatriots, excluding the Chinese from social contacts and immigration networks. The mixed residence of non-home-country immigrants reduces both the Motherland-Net and Chinese-Net of international immigrants. From the perspective of the health effect, the establishment and expansion of Chinese-Net did not present the “bright side” of encouraging immigrants to reach a better health status. In contrast, Motherland-Net has a stronger explanatory power for the health changes in immigrants.
Comparative Biomonitoring of Arsenic Exposure in Mothers and Their Neonates in Comarca Lagunera, Mexico
Authors: García Salcedo José Javier , Roh Taehyun , Nava Rivera Lydia Enith , Betancourt Martínez Nadia Denys , Carranza Rosales Pilar , San Miguel Salazar María Francisco , Rivera Guillén Mario Alberto , Serrano Gallardo Luis Benjamín , Niño Castañeda María Soñadora , Guzmán Delgado Nacny Elena , Millán Orozco Jair , Ortega Morales Natalia , Morán Martínez Javier
Published: December 2022

Multiple comorbidities related to arsenic exposure through drinking water continue to be public problems worldwide, principally in chronically exposed populations, such as those in the Comarca Lagunera (CL), Mexico. In addition, this relationship could be exacerbated by an early life exposure through the placenta and later through breast milk. This study conducted a comparative analysis of arsenic levels in multiple biological samples from pregnant women and their neonates in the CL and the comparison region, Saltillo. Total arsenic levels in placenta, breast milk, blood, and urine were measured in pregnant women and their neonates from rural areas of seven municipalities of the CL using atomic absorption spectrophotometry with hydride generation methodology. The average concentrations of tAs in drinking water were 47.7 µg/L and 0.05 µg/L in the exposed and non-exposed areas, respectively. Mean levels of tAs were 7.80 µg/kg, 77.04 µg/g-Cr, and 4.30 µg/L in placenta, blood, urine, and breast milk, respectively, in mothers, and 107.92 µg/g-Cr in neonates in the exposed group, which were significantly higher than those in the non-exposed area. High levels of urinary arsenic in neonates were maintained 4 days after birth, demonstrating an early arsenic exposure route through the placenta and breast milk. In addition, our study suggested that breastfeeding may reduce arsenic exposure in infants in arsenic-contaminated areas. Further studies are necessary to follow up on comorbidities later in life in neonates and to provide interventions in this region.
Percent Body Fat-Related Disparities of Serum Ferritin on the Risk of Lipid Metabolism Abnormalities in Children and Adolescents
Authors: He Xin , Wang Wenjing , Zhu Zhenni , Zang Jiajie , Liu Tong , Shi Yan , Fu Chen
Published: December 2022

Objective: This study examined the association between serum ferritin and dyslipidemia in children and adolescents with different degrees of obesity. Method: In this multi-stage, stratified, randomized, sampling cross-section cohort study, demographic data were collected by questionnaire from 4320 children and adolescents (aged 6–17 years) in Shanghai, China. Anthropometric measures and percent body fat (PBF) were recorded. Serum lipid parameters were detected by an automatic biochemical method, and ferritin levels were measured by an automatic immunoassay. Results: Our results showed 70.6%, 13.9%, and 15.5% of participants had a healthy body fat, low fat, and overweight/obese, respectively. Increasing ferritin quartiles were independently associated with a greater hazard of dyslipidemia, especially in overweight/obese participants, and the OR (95% CI) was 3.01 (1.29–7.00), 3.58 (1.59–8.04), and 5.66 (2.57–12.46) across the ferritin quartiles after adjustment for confounders. Ferritin was only a predictive value for dyslipidemia in overweight/obese participants (AUC = 0.64) and was consistent in boys (AUC = 0.61) and girls (AUC = 0.68). The significant positive correlation between ferritin value and lipid abnormalities profiles (except for low HDL-C) mainly appeared in the overweight/obesity group. Conclusion: The results showed that serum ferritin can be considered an independent risk factor for dyslipidemia in children and adolescents with obesity. Highlights: Ferritin overload had a greater risk of dyslipidemia, especially in children and adolescents with overweight/obesity.
Gender Difference in Fear and Anxiety about and Perceived Susceptibility to COVID-19 in the Third Wave of Pandemic among the Japanese General Population: A Nationwide Web-Based Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Sasaki Rio , Ota Atsuhiko , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: December 2022

Existing research suggested gender differences in fear and anxiety about and perceived susceptibility to COVID-19 and previous infectious disease pandemics. We analyzed whether women felt fear and anxiety about and perceived susceptibility to COVID-19 more frequently than men in Japan. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using internet survey data collected during the third wave of the pandemic in Japan. The subjects were enrolled from the Japanese general population: 11,957 men and 11,559 women. Fear and anxiety specifically related to COVID-19 were evaluated with the Japanese version of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FoCS). The question “How likely do you think you will be infected with COVID-19?” was used to assess the perceived susceptibility to COVID-19. Women had higher mean (standard deviation) FoCS scores [18.6 (5.6) vs. 17.5 (5.9), d = 0.190] and reported the median or higher FoCS score (57.4% vs. 51.4%, φ = 0.060) and perceived susceptibility (13.6% vs. 11.5%, φ = 0.032) more frequently than men. The odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) adjusted for age, having a spouse, comorbidities, watching commercial TV stations’ news programs, employment status, and household income were 1.24 (1.17–1.32) and 1.27 (1.16–1.38), respectively. We observed that women were more anxious and fearful about and perceived the susceptibility to infectious diseases more frequently than men even one year after the pandemic occurred in Japan, although the effect size was small.
Analysis of Mining-Related Injuries in Chinese Coal Mines and Related Risk Factors: A Statistical Research Study Based on a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tian Jin , Wang Yundou , Gao Shutian
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: Coal mine injuries commonly occur, affecting both the safety and health of miners, and the normal operation of the coal mine. Accordingly, this study aimed to explore the regularity of injury and injury-related risk factors in coal mines in China so as to establish a scientific basis for reducing the incidence and promoting the prevention and control of injuries. Methods: A meta-analysis of casualty cases and injury-related risk factors from 1956 to 2017 in China was conducted utilizing data from six databases, including CNKI, Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Wanfang data. Summary estimates were obtained using random effects models. Results: There were statistically significant variations in coal mine accident types, types of work, injury sites, age, experience, months, and shifts (p < 0.001). Eight types of accidents were susceptible to the risk of injury, and the greatest risk was presented by roof-related accidents (odds ratio (OR) = 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.32–0.6). Coal miners and drillers were at a greater risk of injury (OR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.35–0.44; OR = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.17–0.26, respectively). The extremities and the soft tissues of the skin were at the greatest risk of injury (OR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.3–0.58; OR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.1–0.48, respectively). Compared with other ages, miners aged 21–30 were at a greater risk of injury (21–30 years, OR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.42–0.47; 31–40 years, OR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.25–0.32; <20 years, OR = 0.13, 95% CI = 0.03–0.23; >40 years, OR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.09–0.25). Compared with other miners, those with 6–10 years of experience were at a greater risk of injury (6–10 years, OR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.25–0.32; 2–5 years, OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.25–0.41; <1 year, OR = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.08–0.33; >11 years, OR = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.17–0.27). During the months of July to September, the risk of injury was elevated (7–9th months, OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.25–0.39; 10–12th months, OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.16–0.31; 1st–3rd months, OR = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.16–0.28; 4–6th months, OR = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.16–0.27). In the three-shift work system, the risk of injury was higher during night shifts (22:00–06:00, OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.3–0.56; 14:00–22:00, OR = 0.3, 95% CI = 0.23–0.27; 06:00–14:00, OR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.18–0.35). Conclusions: The results of this research study reveal that coal mine injuries are prevalent among coal miners. These injuries are often related to the age, experience, months of work, and the three-shift work system of miners.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Sustainable Development Goals: Achievements and Expectations
Authors: Martín-Blanco Cathaysa , Zamorano Montserrat , Lizárraga Carmen , Molina-Moreno Valentin
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on almost all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), leaving no country unaffected. It has caused a shift in political agendas, but also in lines of research. At the same time, the world is trying to make the transition to a more sustainable economic model. The research objectives of this paper are to explore the impact of COVID-19 on the fulfilment of the SDGs with regard to the research of the scientific community, and to analyze the presence of the Circular Economy (CE) in the literature. To this end, this research applies bibliometric analysis and a systematic review of the literature, using VOSviewer for data visualization. Five clusters were detected and grouped according to the three dimensions of sustainability. The extent of the effects of the health, economic and social crisis resulting from the pandemic, in addition to the climate crisis, is still uncertain, but it seems clear that the main issues are inefficient waste management, supply chain issues, adaptation to online education and energy concerns. The CE has been part of the solution to this crisis, and it is seen as an ideal model to be promoted based on the opportunities detected.
Impact of Paraben Exposure on Adiposity-Related Measures: An Updated Literature Review of Population-Based Studies
Authors: Xu Xinyun , Wu Haoying , Terry Paul D. , Zhao Ling , Chen Jiangang
Published: December 2022

Parabens are alkyl esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid that are commonly used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Humans are exposed to parabens when they use these products and through diet. There are growing concerns that paraben exposure can adversely impact human health. The endocrine-disrupting and obesogenic properties of parabens have been observed in animal studies and in vitro, prompting the increase in population-based studies of paraben exposure and adiposity-related endpoints. In this review, we summarize epidemiological studies published between 2017 and 2022 that examined paraben exposure in utero, between birth and adolescence, and in adulthood, in relation to adiposity-related measures. Overall, these studies provide some evidence that suggests that paraben exposure, especially during critical development windows, is associated with adiposity-related measures. However, we have noted several limitations in these studies, including the predominance of cross-sectional studies, inconsistent sample collection procedures, and small sample sizes, which should be addressed in future studies.
Lifestyle Patterns of Children Experiencing Homelessness: Family Socio-Ecological Correlates and Links with Physical and Mental Health
Authors: Descarpentrie Alexandra , Estevez Mégane , Brabant Gilles , Vandentorren Stéphanie , Lioret Sandrine
Published: December 2022

Diet, screen time, physical activity, and sleep combine into lifestyle patterns with synergistic effects on health. This study aimed to identify lifestyle patterns in children without housing and assess their associations with physical and mental health and family socio-ecological factors. In the 2013 ENFAMS cross-sectional survey (children aged 6–12 experiencing homelessness, Greater Paris area, n = 235), parents reported socio-ecological factors, children’s behaviours, and mental health (the latter was also child-reported). Nurses measured children’s haemoglobin concentrations and body mass index. Principal component analysis was used to derive sex-specific lifestyle patterns. Hierarchical linear regressions and “outcome-wide” analyses assessed, respectively, these patterns’ relations to health and family socio-ecological factors. A rather healthy lifestyle pattern—similarly characterized by diverse diet and high sleep time—was identified, with slight differences by sex. Scores for this pattern were higher for children in food-secure or higher-income households, whose parents were proficient in French, who slept longer, or who received more social support compared to their counterparts, with some nuances by sex. Higher scores for this pattern were associated with higher prosocial behaviour scores (girls) and lower anxiety and hyperactivity–inattention symptoms scores (boys), but not with physical health. For this underserved and understudied population, the results highlight the importance of family socio-ecological factors in shaping the lifestyles and mental health of children.
Getting the FACS: A Protocol for Developing a Survey Instrument to Measure Carer and Family Engagement with Mental Health Services
Authors: Maybery Darryl , Reupert Andrea , Casey Jaffe Irene , Cuff Rose , Duncan Zoe , Dunkley-Smith Addy , Grant Anne , Kennelly Melissa , Eva Skogøy Bjørg , Weimand Bente , Ruud Torleif
Published: December 2022

Government policies recommend, and all stakeholders benefit, when mental health services meaningfully engage with carers and family. However, health service engagement with carers is inadequate, and often non-existent with children whose parents are service users. There are seven fundamental ways that carers and families want to be integrated with and engaged by health services but current survey instruments do not capture these seven engagement practices. This protocol describes the development of two closely aligned Family and Carer Surveys (FACS) to measure engagement of service users in mental health services. The new measures are based on the seven engagement themes and a conceptual distinction between the carer and family, with particular focus on where the service user is a parent. The instruments will be developed in five stages; (1) item generation (2) Cognitive pretesting of survey (3) preliminary item content quantitative assessment (4) psychometric analysis of a large data collection and (5) selection of items for short form instruments. These steps will operationalise the seven fundamental ways that families and carers want to be engaged with mental health services, thereby providing valid and reliable measures for use in research and benchmarking of carer and family engagement.
Intention and Attitude to Accept a Pertussis Cocooning Vaccination among Chinese Children’s Guardians: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Wang Meng , Li Mengying , Li Xinghui , Chen Xiaoli , Jiang Feng , A Kezhong , Wang Zhiguo , Zhang Liping , Lu Yihan , Peng Wenjia , Wang Weibing , Fu Chaowei , Wang Ying
Published: December 2022

Objective: to assess Chinese children’s guardians’ intentions and attitudes toward accepting a pertussis cocooning vaccination and its determinants. Methods: a self-administered questionnaire was designed based on a theoretical framework that originated mainly from the reasoned action approach. Associations between questionnaire variables and outcomes were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses with odds ratios (OR), regression coefficients (β), and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: among 762 eligible participants, most (80.71%) reported a positive intention to accept a pertussis cocooning vaccination. The guardians’ positive intention was related to the children’s pertussis vaccination experience (OR = 2.483, 95% CI: 1.340–4.600). Guardians who had a positive attitude towards pertussis vaccination (OR = 1.554, 95% CI: 1.053–2.296), higher subjective norms (OR = 1.960, 95% CI: 1.371–2.802) and better perceived behavioral control (OR = 7.482, 95% CI: 4.829–11.591) stated a higher intention to receive a pertussis cocooning vaccination. The mean attitude score was 3.88 ± 0.863. Greater risk perception about pertussis (β = 0.390, 95% CI: 0.298–0.483), stronger obligation from moral norms (β = 0.355, 95% CI: 0.279–0.430), and good knowledge (β = 0.108, 95% CI: 0.070–0.146) were significantly related to positive attitude toward pertussis cocooning vaccination among guardians. Conclusions: Chinese children’s guardians held positive intentions and attitudes toward accepting a pertussis cocooning vaccination. The current findings described the determinants of such intention and attitude and provided knowledge based on improving guardians’ intentions for policymakers if cocooning vaccinations or related immunization strategies are implemented in China in the future.
Alignment of the Sternum and Sacrum as a Marker of Sitting Body Posture in Children
Authors: Kiebzak Wojciech Piotr , Żurawski Arkadiusz Łukasz , Kosztołowicz Michał
Published: December 2022

An analysis of literature on the methods of assuming a sitting position and the results of our own research indicated the need to search for biomechanical parameters and existing relationships that would enable a description of sitting body posture. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationship between the alignment of the body of sternum and sacrum and the changes in the thoracic and lumbar spine curvatures in children. The study involved 113 subjects aged 9–13 years. A planned simultaneous measurement of the angle parameters of the alignment of the body of sternum and sacrum relative to the body’s sagittal axis and the angle parameters of the thoracic and lumbar spine curvatures was performed during a single examination session. The proposed markers of alignment in the corrected sitting body posture are characterized by homogeneous results. A high measurement repeatability was observed when determining the corrected body posture in the study setting. It was noted that changes in the alignment of the body of sternum and sacrum resulted in changes in the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angle values, which may be an important component of clinical observations of sitting body posture in children. Implementing the body of sternum alignment angle of about 64° relative to the body’s sagittal axis in clinical practice as one of the objectives of postural education may be the target solution for sitting body posture correction in children.
Association between Breastfeeding and Restrictive Spirometric Pattern in Women Aged over 40 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jang Hyeokjoo , Kwon Sebin , Lee Bumyeol , Kim Gahyeon , Chae Wonjeong , Jang Sung-In
Published: December 2022

Objectives: Restrictive spirometric pattern (RSP) has a prevalence of 5.4–9.2% and is associated with various respiratory symptoms, comorbidities, and increased mortality. Breastfeeding has important effects on maternal health; however, the effects of breastfeeding on pulmonary function remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of breastfeeding on maternal pulmonary function, particularly the risk of RSP. Methods: Retrospective, cross-sectional observational study enrolling parous women aged >40 years who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2013–2018. RSP was defined using the FEV1/FVC ratio and FVC outcomes of the pulmonary function test. The adjusted odds ratios (OR) for RSP were calculated using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Of 9261 parous women, 913 (9.9%) had RSP. Breastfeeding (≥1 month) was associated with a reduced risk of RSP (OR: 0.75 [0.60–0.92]) when adjusted for age, body mass index, smoking status, other diseases, socioeconomic status, and maternal risk factors. The adjusted ORs for RSP for women decreased further with increasing duration of breastfeeding (p for trend: 0.0004). The FEV1, FVC, and FVC% were higher in women who breastfed than in those who did not breastfeed (by 0.0390 L, 0.0521 L, 0.9540% p, respectively). Conclusions: There is an association between breastfeeding and pulmonary function in parous women. Breastfeeding was associated with a lower prevalence of RSP in parous women aged >40 years old, suggesting that breastfeeding may have a beneficial effect on maternal pulmonary function.
A Spatio-Temporal Cognitive Framework for Individual Route Choice in Outdoor Evacuation Scenarios
Authors: Gao Fei , Du Zhiqiang , Fang Chenyu , Zhou Lin , Werner Martin
Published: December 2022

Route choice is a complex issue in simulating individual behaviors and reproducing collective phenomena during evacuations. A growing concern has been given to the individual cognitive mechanism to investigate how routing decisions are made in specific situations. However, the essential role of multiple spatio-temporal scales has not been completely considered in the current cognitive frameworks, which leads to the inaccuracy of cognition representation in evacuation decisions. This study proposes a novel spatio-temporal cognitive framework integrated with multiple spatio-temporal scales for individual route choice. First, a complete spatio-temporal cognitive mechanism is constructed to depict the individual evacuation cognition process. Second, a spatio-temporal route choice strategy that emerges from agent-based simulation and extends into the spatio-temporal potential field is designed to represent the overall time-varying cost along routes in individual subjective estimation. Finally, a spatio-temporal A* algorithm is developed for individual optimal route planning in complex outdoor evacuation scenarios. The experimental results show that the proposed framework outperformed the conventional potential field model in evacuation performance, in both objective crowd evacuation evaluation metrics and individual subjectively estimated evacuation cost in cognition, and may provide more insights on crowd evacuation management and guidance.
Pregnancy Increases CYP3A Enzymes Activity as Measured by the 4β-Hydroxycholesterol/Cholesterol Ratio
Authors: Mlugu Eulambius M. , Minzi Omary M. , Kamuhabwa Appolinary A. R. , Diczfalusy Ulf , Aklillu Eleni
Published: December 2022

Changes in cortisol and other hormones during pregnancy may alter CYP3A enzymes activity, but data from sub-Saharan Africa are sparse. We investigated the effect of pregnancy and CYP3A5 genotypes on CYP3A enzymes activity using the plasma 4β-hydroxycholesterol (4β-OHC)/cholesterol (Chol) ratio, a known endogenous biomarker. Tanzanian pregnant women (n = 110) and non-pregnant women (n = 59) controls were enrolled. Plasma 4β-OHC and Chol were determined in the second and third trimesters for pregnant women and once for non-pregnant women using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Genotyping for CYP3A5 (*3, *6, *7) was performed. Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test and Mann–Whitney U test were used to compare the median 4β-OHC/Chol ratio between trimesters in pregnant women and between pregnant and non-pregnant women. Repeated-measure ANOVA was used to evaluate the effect of the CYP3A5 genotypes on the 4β-OHC/Chol ratio in pregnant women. No significant effect of the pregnancy status or the CYP3A5 genotype on the cholesterol level was observed. The plasma 4β-OHC/Chol ratio significantly increased by 7.3% from the second trimester to the third trimester (p = 0.02). Pregnant women had a significantly higher mean 4β-OHC/Chol ratio than non-pregnant women, (p < 0.001). In non-pregnant women, the mean 4β-OHC/Chol ratio was significantly lower in carriers of defective CYP3A5 alleles (*3, *6 or *7) as compared to women with the CYP3A5*1/*1 genotypes (p = 0.002). Pregnancy increases CYP3A enzymes activity in a gestational-stage manner. The CYP3A5 genotype predicts CYP3A enzymes activity in the black Tanzanian population, but not during pregnancy-mediated CYP3A enzyme induction.
Sulfation of Phenolic Acids: Chemoenzymatic vs. Chemical Synthesis
Authors: Kolaříková Viola , Brodsky Katerina , Petrásková Lucie , Pelantová Helena , Cvačka Josef , Havlíček Libor , Křen Vladimír , Valentová Kateřina
Published: December 2022

Phenolic acids are known flavonoid metabolites, which typically undergo bioconjugation during phase II of biotransformation, forming sulfates, along with other conjugates. Sulfated derivatives of phenolic acids can be synthesized by two approaches: chemoenzymatically by 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS)-dependent sulfotransferases or PAPS-independent aryl sulfotransferases such as those from Desulfitobacterium hafniense, or chemically using SO3 complexes. Both approaches were tested with six selected phenolic acids (2-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (2-HPA), 3-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (3-HPA), 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (4-HPA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DHPA), 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid (4-HPP), and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylpropionic acid (DHPP)) to create a library of sulfated metabolites of phenolic acids. The sulfates of 3-HPA, 4-HPA, 4-HPP, DHPA, and DHPP were all obtained by the methods of chemical synthesis. In contrast, the enzymatic sulfation of monohydroxyphenolic acids failed probably due to enzyme inhibition, whereas the same reaction was successful for dihydroxyphenolic acids (DHPA and DHPP). Special attention was also paid to the counterions of the sulfates, a topic often poorly reported in synthetic works. The products obtained will serve as authentic analytical standards in metabolic studies and to determine their biological activity.
Systematic Review of Clinical and Pathophysiological Features of Genetic Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease Caused by a Val-to-Ile Mutation at Codon 180 in the Prion Protein Gene
Authors: Matsubayashi Taiki , Sanjo Nobuo
Published: December 2022

Genetic Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (gCJD) is a subtype of genetic prion diseases (gPrDs) caused by the accumulation of mutated pathological prion proteins (PrPSc). gCJD has a phenotypic similarity with sporadic CJD (sCJD). In Japan, gCJD with a Val to Ile substitution at codon 180 (V180I-gCJD) is the most frequent gPrD, while the mutation is extremely rare in countries other than Japan and Korea. In this article, we aim to review previously elucidated clinical and biochemical features of V180I-gCJD, expecting to advance the understanding of this unique subtype in gCJD. Compared to classical sCJD, specific clinical features of V180I-gCJD include older age at onset, a relatively slow progression of dementia, and a lower positivity for developing myoclonus, cerebellar, pyramidal signs, and visual disturbance. Diffuse edematous ribboning hyperintensity of the cerebral cortex, without occipital lobes in diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, is also specific. Laboratory data reveal the low positivity of PrPSc in the cerebrospinal fluid and periodic sharp wave complexes on an electroencephalogram. Most patients with V180I-gCJD have been reported to have no family history, probably due to the older age at onset, and clinical and biochemical features indicate the specific phenotype associated with the prion protein gene mutation.
miR-221-5p and miR-186-5p Are the Critical Bladder Cancer Derived Exosomal miRNAs in Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Huyan Ting , Gao Lina , Gao Na , Wang Chaochao , Guo Wuli , Zhou Xiaojie , Li Qi
Published: December 2022

Bladder cancer (BC) is the tenth most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, and its carcinogenesis mechanism has not been fully elucidated. BC is able to induce natural killer (NK) cell dysfunction and escape immune surveillance. The present study found that exosomes derived from the urinary bladder cancer cell line (T24 cell) contribute in generating NK cell dysfunction by impairing viability, and inhibiting the cytotoxicity of the NK cell on target cells. Meanwhile, T24 cell-derived exosomes inhibited the expression of the important functional receptors NKG2D, NKp30, and CD226 on NK cells as well as the secretion of perforin and granzyme-B. The critical miRNAs with high expression in T24 cell-derived exosomes were identified using high-throughput sequencing. Furthermore, following dual-luciferase reporter assay and transfection experiments, miR-221-5p and miR-186-5p were confirmed as interfering with the stability of the mRNAs of DAP10, CD96, and the perforin gene in NK cells and may be potential targets used in the therapy for BC.
Molecular Characterization of Thymus capitellatus Extracts and Their Antioxidant, Neuroprotective and Anti-Proliferative Activities
Authors: Martins-Gomes Carlos , Steck Jan , Keller Judith , Bunzel Mirko , Nunes Fernando M. , Silva Amélia M.
Published: December 2022

Thymus capitellatus Hoffmanns & Link is an endemic species of the Iberian Peninsula listed as near-threatened, due to its restricted geographical distribution, occurring mainly in Portugal’s mainland. In this work, we detail for the first time T. capitellatus extracts’ phytochemical composition, as well as an evaluation of bioactivities to point out potential health benefits. Aqueous decoction (AD) and hydroethanolic (HE) extracts were obtained, both rich in flavonoids. However, quercetin-(?)-O-hexoside was identified as the main compound in T. capitellatus HE extract, while the phenolic acid rosmarinic acid was the main component of AD extracts. In addition, HE extract presents significant amounts of salvianolic acids and of the terpenoids oleanolic and ursolic acid. Both extracts showed antioxidant activity, evaluated by their capacity to scavenge ABTS and superoxide radicals, as well as an ability to prevent lipid peroxidation. AD extracts were also effective in scavenging hydroxyl and nitric oxide radicals. As potential functional foods, T. capitellatus extracts presented neuroprotective and anti-diabetic activity, in addition to time- and dose-dependent anti-proliferative activity against Caco-2 (colorectal adenocarcinoma) and HepG2 (hepatic carcinoma) cells. HE extract presented higher cytotoxicity than AD extract, and HepG2 cells were more resistant than Caco-2 cells. After 24 h exposure to HE extract, the IC50 values were 330 μg/mL and 447 μg/mL for Caco-2 and HepG2 cells, respectively. T. capitellatus has potential as a functional food or as a source of bioactive molecules. These results also highlight the need to preserve species with as yet unknown molecular compositions and potential medicinal applications.
Many Functions of Telomerase Components: Certainties, Doubts, and Inconsistencies
Authors: Udroiu Ion , Marinaccio Jessica , Sgura Antonella
Published: December 2022

A growing number of studies have evidenced non-telomeric functions of “telomerase”. Almost all of them, however, investigated the non-canonical effects of the catalytic subunit TERT, and not the telomerase ribonucleoprotein holoenzyme. These functions mainly comprise signal transduction, gene regulation and the increase of anti-oxidative systems. Although less studied, TERC (the RNA component of telomerase) has also been shown to be involved in gene regulation, as well as other functions. All this has led to the publication of many reviews on the subject, which, however, are often disseminating personal interpretations of experimental studies of other researchers as original proofs. Indeed, while some functions such as gene regulation seem ascertained, especially because mechanistic findings have been provided, other ones remain dubious and/or are contradicted by other direct or indirect evidence (e.g., telomerase activity at double-strand break site, RNA polymerase activity of TERT, translation of TERC, mitochondrion-processed TERC). In a critical study of the primary evidence so far obtained, we show those functions for which there is consensus, those showing contradictory results and those needing confirmation. The resulting picture, together with some usually neglected aspects, seems to indicate a link between TERT and TERC functions and cellular stemness and gives possible directions for future research.
Association of B Cells with Idiopathic Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ângelo-Dias Miguel , Martins Catarina , Dias Sara Simões , Borrego Luís Miguel , Lima Jorge
Published: December 2022

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects 1–2% of women and is defined as having experienced two or more failed pregnancies. In almost 50% of cases, the causes are idiopathic (IRPL), but increasing evidence has suggested an immunological cause. B cells are known to provide crucial support for a successful pregnancy outcome. However, their involvement in the mechanisms underlying IRPL is still unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively summarise the existing evidence regarding the levels and profiles of B cells in IRPL. An extensive computerized search in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was performed with no imposed limits. Two reviewers independently screened all retrieved studies, extracted all the data, and assessed the methodological quality. Disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. From a total of 1125 retrieved studies, 19 studies were included in the systematic review, and 8 studies were quantitatively analysed. We highlight a potential association between women with IRPL and increased levels of endometrial B cells. In addition, the flow cytometry technique seems to be preferred over immunohistochemistry for identifying those differences, while further studies are necessary to clarify the role of B cells as an immunological risk factor for RPL.
The Role of Circular RNAs in the Physiology and Pathology of the Mammalian Ovary
Authors: Zhang Jinbi , Wang Caixia , Jia Chao , Zhang Yi , Qing Xinxin , Zhang Yuge , Liu Jingge , Xu Shiyong , Pan Zengxiang
Published: December 2022

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are an abundant class of endogenous non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) generated from exonic, intronic, or untranslated regions of protein-coding genes or intergenic regions. The diverse, stable, and specific expression patterns of circRNAs and their possible functions through cis/trans regulation and protein-coding mechanisms make circRNA a research hotspot in various biological and pathological processes. It also shows practical value as biomarkers, diagnostic indicators, and therapeutic targets. This review summarized the characteristics, classification, biogenesis and elimination, detection and confirmation, and functions of circRNAs. We focused on research advances circRNAs in the mammalian ovary under conditions including ovarian cancer, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and maternal aging, as well as during reproductive status, including ovarian follicle development and atresia. The roles of circRNAs in high reproductive traits in domestic animals were also summarized. Finally, we outlined some obstructive factors and prospects to work with circRNA, aiming to provide insights into the functional research interests of circRNAs in the reproduction and gynecology areas.
The Role of Epigenetics in Neuroinflammatory-Driven Diseases
Authors: Giallongo Sebastiano , Longhitano Lucia , Denaro Simona , D’Aprile Simona , Torrisi Filippo , La Spina Enrico , Giallongo Cesarina , Mannino Giuliana , Lo Furno Debora , Zappalà Agata , Giuffrida Rosario , Parenti Rosalba , Li Volti Giovanni , Tibullo Daniele , Vicario Nunzio
Published: December 2022

Neurodegenerative disorders are characterized by the progressive loss of central and/or peripheral nervous system neurons. Within this context, neuroinflammation comes up as one of the main factors linked to neurodegeneration progression. In fact, neuroinflammation has been recognized as an outstanding factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Interestingly, neuroinflammatory diseases are characterized by dramatic changes in the epigenetic profile, which might provide novel prognostic and therapeutic factors towards neuroinflammatory treatment. Deep changes in DNA and histone methylation, along with histone acetylation and altered non-coding RNA expression, have been reported at the onset of inflammatory diseases. The aim of this work is to review the current knowledge on this field.
Association between LAG3/CD4 Genes Variants and Risk for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: García-Martín Elena , Agúndez José A. G. , Gómez-Tabales Javier , Benito-León Julián , Millán-Pascual Jorge , Díaz-Sánchez María , Calleja Patricia , Turpín-Fenoll Laura , Alonso-Navarro Hortensia , García-Albea Esteban , Plaza-Nieto José Francisco , Jiménez-Jiménez Felix Javier
Published: December 2022

Several recent works have raised the possibility of the contribution of the lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3) protein in the inflammatory processes of multiple sclerosis (MS). Results of studies on the possible association between LAG3 gene variants and the risk of MS have been inconclusive. In this study, we tried to show the possible association between the most common single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the CD4 and LAG3 genes (these two genes are closely related) and the risk of MS in the Caucasian Spanish population. We studied the genotypes and allelic variants CD4 rs1922452, CD4 rs951818, and LAG3 rs870849 in 300 patients diagnosed with MS and 400 healthy patients using specific TaqMan-based qPCR assays. We analyzed the possible influence of the genotype frequency on age at the onset of MS, the severity of MS, clinical evolutive subtypes of MS, and the HLADRB1*1501 genotype. The frequencies of the CD4 rs1922452, CD4 rs951818, and LAG3 rs870849 genotypes and allelic variants were not associated with the risk of MS and were unrelated to gender, age at onset and severity of MS, the clinical subtype of MS, and HLADRB1*1501 genotype. The results of the current study showed a lack of association between the CD4 rs1922452, CD4 rs951818, and LAG3 rs870849 SNVs and the risk of developing MS in the Caucasian Spanish population.
Maternal Inflammatory Biomarkers during Pregnancy and Early Life Neurodevelopment in Offspring: Results from the VDAART Study
Authors: Kelly Rachel S. , Lee-Sarwar Kathleen , Chen Yih-Chieh , Laranjo Nancy , Fichorova Raina , Chu Su H. , Prince Nicole , Lasky-Su Jessica , Weiss Scott T. , Litonjua Augusto A.
Published: December 2022

Maternal infection and stress during the prenatal period have been associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring, suggesting that biomarkers of increased inflammation in the mothers may associate with poorer developmental outcomes. In 491 mother–child pairs from the Vitamin D Antenatal Asthma Reduction Trial (VDAART), we investigated the association between maternal levels of two inflammatory biomarkers; interleukin-8 (IL-8) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) during early (10–18 wks) and late (32–38 wks) pregnancy with offspring scores in the five domains of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, a validated screening tool for assessing early life development. We identified a robust association between early pregnancy IL-8 levels and decreased fine-motor (β: −0.919, 95%CI: −1.425, −0.414, p = 3.9 × 10−4) and problem-solving skills at age two (β: −1.221, 95%CI: −1.904, −0.414, p = 4.9 × 10−4). Associations between IL-8 with other domains of development and those for CRP did not survive correction for multiple testing. Similarly, while there was some evidence that the detrimental effects of early pregnancy IL-8 were strongest in boys and in those who were not breastfed, these interactions were not robust to correction for multiple testing. However, further research is required to determine if other maternal inflammatory biomarkers associate with offspring neurodevelopment and work should continue to focus on the management of factors leading to increases in IL-8 levels in pregnant women.
Novel Molecular Insights into Leukemic Evolution of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms: A Single Cell Perspective
Authors: Rontauroli Sebastiano , Carretta Chiara , Parenti Sandra , Bertesi Matteo , Manfredini Rossella
Published: December 2022

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are clonal disorders originated by the serial acquisition of somatic mutations in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. The major clinical entities are represented by polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), that are caused by driver mutations affecting JAK2, MPL or CALR. Disease progression is related to molecular and clonal evolution. PV and ET can progress to secondary myelofibrosis (sMF) but can also evolve to secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML). PMF is associated with the highest frequency of leukemic transformation, which represents the main cause of death. sAML is associated with a dismal prognosis and clinical features that differ from those of de novo AML. The molecular landscape distinguishes sAML from de novo AML, since the most frequent hits involve TP53, epigenetic regulators, spliceosome modulators or signal transduction genes. Single cell genomic studies provide novel and accurate information about clonal architecture and mutation acquisition order, allowing the reconstruction of clonal dynamics and molecular events that accompany leukemic transformation. In this review, we examine our current understanding of the genomic heterogeneity in MPNs and how it affects disease progression and leukemic transformation. We focus on molecular events elicited by somatic mutations acquisition and discuss the emerging findings coming from single cell studies.
Genetic and Structural Data on the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BQ.1 Variant Reveal Its Low Potential for Epidemiological Expansion
Authors: Scarpa Fabio , Sanna Daria , Benvenuto Domenico , Borsetti Alessandra , Azzena Ilenia , Casu Marco , Fiori Pier Luigi , Giovanetti Marta , Maruotti Antonello , Ceccarelli Giancarlo , Caruso Arnaldo , Caccuri Francesca , Cauda Roberto , Cassone Antonio , Pascarella Stefano , Ciccozzi Massimo
Published: December 2022

The BQ.1 SARS-CoV-2 variant, also known as Cerberus, is one of the most recent Omicron descendant lineages. Compared to its direct progenitor BA.5, BQ.1 has some additional spike mutations in some key antigenic sites, which confer further immune escape ability over other circulating lineages. In such a context, here, we perform a genome-based survey aimed at obtaining a complete-as-possible nuance of this rapidly evolving Omicron subvariant. Genetic data suggest that BQ.1 represents an evolutionary blind background, lacking the rapid diversification that is typical of a dangerous lineage. Indeed, the evolutionary rate of BQ.1 is very similar to that of BA.5 (7.6 × 10−4 and 7 × 10−4 subs/site/year, respectively), which has been circulating for several months. The Bayesian Skyline Plot reconstruction indicates a low level of genetic variability, suggesting that the peak was reached around 3 September 2022. Concerning the affinity for ACE2, structure analyses (also performed by comparing the properties of BQ.1 and BA.5 RBD) indicate that the impact of the BQ.1 mutations may be modest. Likewise, immunoinformatic analyses showed moderate differences between the BQ.1 and BA5 potential B-cell epitopes. In conclusion, genetic and structural analyses on SARS-CoV-2 BQ.1 suggest no evidence of a particularly dangerous or high expansion capability. Genome-based monitoring must continue uninterrupted for a better understanding of its descendants and all other lineages.