bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioacetoin Production by Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis Using Enzymatic Hydrolysate of Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Saini Meenaxi , Anu  , Rapoport Alexander , Tiwari Santosh Kumar , Singh Davender , Malik Vinay , Kumar Sandeep , Singh Bijender
Published: July 2023

Acetoin is an important bio-product useful in the chemical, food and pharmaceutical industries. Microbial fermentation is the major process for the production of bioacetoin, as the petroleum resources used in chemical methods are depleting day by day. Bioacetoin production using wild microorganisms is an easy, eco-friendly and economical method for the production of bioacetoin. In the present study, culture conditions and nutritional requirements were optimized for bioacetoin production by a wild and non-pathogenic strain of B. subtilis subsp. subtilis JJBS250. The bacterial culture produced maximum bioacetoin (259 mg L−1) using peptone (3%) and sucrose (2%) at 30 °C, 150 rpm and pH 7.0 after 24 h. Further supplementation of combinatorial nitrogen sources, i.e., peptone (1%) and urea (0.5%), resulted in enhanced titre of bioacetoin (1017 mg L−1) by the bacterial culture. An approximately 46.22–fold improvement in bioacetoin production was achieved after the optimization process. The analysis of samples using thin layer chromatography confirmed the presence of bioacetoin in the culture filtrate. The enzymatic hydrolysate was obtained by saccharification of pretreated rice straw and sugarcane bagasse using cellulase from Myceliophthora thermophila. Fermentation of the enzymatic hydrolysate (3%) of pretreated rice straw and sugarcane bagasse by the bacterial culture resulted in 210 and 473.17 mgL−1 bioacetoin, respectively. Enzymatic hydrolysates supplemented with peptone as a nitrogen source showed a two to four-fold improvement in the production of bioacetoin. Results have demonstrated the utility of wild type B. subtilis subsp. subtilis JJBS250 as a potential source for economical bioacetoin production by making use of renewable and cost-effective lignocellulosic substrate. Therefore, this study will help in the sustainable management of agricultural waste for the industrial production of bioacetoin, and in combating environmental pollution.
Characterization of Biofilm Formation and Bacterial Resistance to Benzalkonium Chloride under Contrasting Cultivation Conditions
Authors: Žorža Laura , Dēliņa Aija , Selga Tūrs , Muter Olga
Published: July 2023

Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is one of the most commonly used quaternary ammonium compounds in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. The aim of our study was to compare the physiological responses of Escherichia coli MSCL 332, Pseudomonas putida MCCL 650, and Staphylococcus epidermidis MSCL 333 on 50 mg/L BAC in rich and poor medium (100% and 5% tryptone soya broth (TSB)) in the temperature range from 8 °C to 37 °C, under static and shaking conditions. A high-throughput, 96-well microplate method was used to compare a broad range of cultivation conditions. The effect of BAC on growth, biofilm formation activity, and dehydrogenase and fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis activity was evaluated. Addition of BAC to 100% TSB inhibited biofilm formation at 37 °C by 2.4, 1.8, and 1.6 times for E. coli, P. putida, and S. epidermidis, respectively. In turn, BAC stimulated biofilm formation in E. coli in 5% TSB at 37 °C and 100% TSB at 8 °C, i.e., 1.4 and 1.3 times, respectively. Statistical optimization of broth composition with emphasis on biofilm formation and further testing under experimental conditions was performed with P. putida.
Effects of Cynanchum bungei Decne Addition on the Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activity of Rice Wine
Authors: Cai Gonglin , Dong Hangmeng , Liu Shoulong , Zhou Huabin , Yang Hailong
Published: July 2023

Cynanchum bungei Decne is an agricultural crop with a high starch content and contains bioactive compounds with anti-tumor, anti-depressant, anti-oxidant, and other activities. In this work, three concentrations of C. bungei Decne, namely, 5%, 15%, and 25%, were added to media to brew C. bungei Decne rice wine. The basic physical and chemical properties, antioxidant activities, sensory characteristics, and volatile components of C. bungei Decne rice wine were determined. Furthermore, the effects of C. bungei Decne extract on the cell viability, alcohol dehydrogenase activity, and glucose absorption capacity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae were analyzed. The results showed that the main active compound contents and antioxidant activity of the rice wine were increased with the increase in the C. bungei Decne added. However, the vitality of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was inhibited by C. bungei Decne to some extent. Combined with a sensory evaluation, 15% C. bungei Decne was found to be the optimal additive concentration with which to brew C. bungei Decne rice wine. These data provide a theoretical basis for the development of C. bungei Decne rice wine.
Immunomodulatory Effect of Benincasa hispida Extract Fermented by Bacillus subtilis CJH 101 on RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Choi Ye Eun , Yang Jung Mo , Jeong Chae Won , Hur He Seung , Cho Ju Hyun
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to confirm the immunomodulatory effects of fermented Benincasa hispida extract (HR1901-BS) on RAW 264.7 macrophages. B. hispida was fermented for 72 h using Bacillus subtilis CJH 101. To evaluate the efficacy of HR1901-BS in enhancing macrophage function, we measured and compared the levels of macrophage activation-related markers in HR1901-BS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. We evaluated the effects on nitric oxide (NO) production and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor TNF-β) in the RAW 264.7 cell line. We confirmed that HR1901-BS affected macrophage activation by inducing a significantly high dose-dependent NO production and increasing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in RAW 264.7 macrophages. It also suggested that the immunomodulatory effect by HR1901-BS occurred mainly as a result of the activation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible NO synthase (iNOS), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways. Our results indicate that HR1901-BS is a promising candidate as a functional material that enhances immune responses through macrophage activation.
A Novel Approach for Fraud Detection in Blockchain-Based Healthcare Networks Using Machine Learning
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed A. , Boujelben Manel , Abid Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Recently, the advent of blockchain (BC) has sparked a digital revolution in different fields, such as finance, healthcare, and supply chain. It is used by smart healthcare systems to provide transparency and control for personal medical records. However, BC and healthcare integration still face many challenges, such as storing patient data and privacy and security issues. In the context of security, new attacks target different parts of the BC network, such as nodes, consensus algorithms, Smart Contracts (SC), and wallets. Fraudulent data insertion can have serious consequences on the integrity and reliability of the BC, as it can compromise the trustworthiness of the information stored on it and lead to incorrect or misleading transactions. Detecting and preventing fraudulent data insertion is crucial for maintaining the credibility of the BC as a secure and transparent system for recording and verifying transactions. SCs control the transfer of assets, which is why they may be subject to several adverbial attacks. Therefore, many efforts have been proposed to detect vulnerabilities and attacks in the SCs, such as utilizing programming tools. However, their proposals are inadequate against the newly emerging vulnerabilities and attacks. Artificial Intelligence technology is robust in analyzing and detecting new attacks in every part of the BC network. Therefore, this article proposes a system architecture for detecting fraudulent transactions and attacks in the BC network based on Machine Learning (ML). It is composed of two stages: (1) Using ML to check medical data from sensors and block abnormal data from entering the blockchain network. (2) Using the same ML to check transactions in the blockchain, storing normal transactions, and marking abnormal ones as novel attacks in the attacks database. To build our system, we utilized two datasets and six machine learning algorithms (Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, KNN, Naive Bayes, SVM, and Random Forest). The results demonstrate that the Random Forest algorithm outperformed others by achieving the highest accuracy, execution time, and scalability. Thereby, it was considered the best solution among the rest of the algorithms for tackling the research problem. Moreover, the security analysis of the proposed system proves its robustness against several attacks which threaten the functioning of the blockchain-based healthcare application.
Development of a Magnetic Molecularly Imprinted Microsphere-Based Signal Amplified Semi-Homogeneous Method for Multidetection of Five Progestins in Milk
Authors: Su Yan , Liu Gelin , Hou Haozhe , Peng Yaojia , Wang Jianping
Published: July 2023

The residues of progestins in milk are significant risk factors for teenage acne and may cause hormone-dependent cancers in consumers, so the determination of these residues in milk is very important. However, an immunoassay or immunoassay-like method capable of determining multiple progestins in milk has not been reported so far. The present study, for the first time, synthesized a type of magnetic molecularly imprinted microsphere that was capable of simultaneously recognizing five progestins. At the same time, an enzyme labeled conjugate was synthesized by coupling progesterone 3-(o-carboxymethyl)oxime with streptavidinated horseradish peroxidase. The above two reagents were used to develop a semi-homogeneous method for the simultaneous detection of the residues of the five progestins in milk. During the experiments, biotinylated horseradish peroxidase was used to amplify the signal, so the sensitivity to the five drugs (limits of detection 0.04–0.1 pg/mL) was increased 44–75-fold. In addition, the magnetic molecularly imprinted microsphere could be regenerated four times by using simple elution. Through general comparison of its detection spectrum, sensitivity, simplicity, and reusability, the present method exhibited better performance than the previous immunoassays for the detection of progestins, and so it could be used as a routine tool for the screening of progestins residues in milk.
The Effects of Ultrasonic and Gamma Irradiation on the Flavor of Potato Wines Investigated by Sensory Omics
Authors: Tan Chunlei , Tao Liang , Xie Jing , Yu Zhijin , Tian Yang , Zhao Cunchao
Published: July 2023

Aroma is one of the most fascinating and least-known mysteries of Baijiu research. The volatile compounds (VOCs) of potato wine were evaluated by sensory omics techniques in order to comprehend their overall flavor characteristics and investigate the effects of ultrasonic treatment and gamma irradiation therapy on the aroma of the wine. The findings revealed that a total of 14 flavor compounds were identified by GC-MS. Isoamyl alcohol, ethyl octanoate, and 1,1-diethoxyethane were the key aroma components, according to GC-O analysis. A total of 50 volatile substances were identified by GC-IMS. After being subjected to irradiation and ultrasonic treatment, the alcohol level of the potato wine reduced while the esters content increased. By calculating the relative odor activity value, a total of 29 aroma components were classified as key aroma compounds (ROAV > 1). According to the results of the sensory evaluation—fruity, Fen-flavor, and sweet—and the acceptability of the irradiated and ultrasonicated potato wine were improved. Therefore, the use of ultrasonic and irradiation therapy in potato wine, as well as the overall aroma building of potato wine, can be supported theoretically by this study.
Use of HPLC-MS to Determine the Loss of Metabolites in Apple Juices under Different Storage Conditions
Authors: Juhart Jan , Medic Aljaz , Jakopic Jerneja , Veberic Robert , Hudina Metka , Stampar Franci
Published: July 2023

The focus of this experiment was to compare the color and metabolic profile of apple juice from the red-fleshed cultivar ‘Baya Marisa’ with the white-fleshed cultivar ‘Golden Delicious’. The changes in the phenolic compounds, organic acids, and sugar content during high-temperature short-time pasteurization and after one year of storage under different storage conditions were analyzed. A total of 26 individual phenolic compounds were identified and quantified. The total analyzed phenolics content (TAPC) decreased after pasteurization of the juices of both cultivars. The TAPC of fresh ‘Baya Marisa’ juice after pasteurization increased or remained the same compared to one-year stored ‘Baya Marisa’ juice, depending on the storage method. The sucrose content of the apple juice of both cultivars remained the same after pasteurization; interestingly, it decreased significantly after one year of storage, while the fructose and glucose content remained the same after pasteurization and increased significantly after one year of storage for both cultivars.
Profiling of Health-Promoting and Taste-Relevant Compounds in Sixteen Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Genotypes Grown under Controlled Conditions
Authors: Béres Tibor , Štefelová Nikola , Ćavar Zeljković Sanja , Kopecký Pavel
Published: July 2023

It is becoming increasingly challenging to maintain crop yields and quality as the global climate changes. The aim of this study was to determine whether and how the profile of health-promoting and taste-related compounds of radishes changes within a growing season. A total of 16 radish (Raphanus sativus L.) genotypes that are commercially available on the Czech market were assessed by means of chemical analysis. Radishes were cultivated in three independent growing cycles under controlled conditions, and the effects of the genotype and growing cycle, as well as their interactions, on the chemical traits were evaluated. Most of the variability in chemical composition was associated with the growing cycle, which accounted for 51.53% of total variance, followed by the genotype (26% of total variance). The interaction between the growing cycle and genotype explained 22.47% of total variance. The growing cycle had the strongest effect on amino acid profiles. More specifically, the amino acids that are known to contribute to overall taste (glycine, along with glutamic and aspartic acids) showed the highest degree of variation, while the amino acids related to glucosinolate biosynthesis (methionine, isoleucine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine) showed relatively low variability. On the other hand, indole glucosinolates were found to differ the most between genotypes.
Honey Origin Authentication via Mineral Profiling Combined with Chemometric Approaches
Authors: Pavlin Anže , Kočar Drago , Imperl Jernej , Kolar Mitja , Marolt Gregor , Petrova Petranka
Published: July 2023

In the present study, the potential of elemental analysis combined with statistical tools to identify honey origin was evaluated by mineral characterization of 173 honeys of 13 floral types (acacia, fir, spruce, linden, chestnut, lavender, coriander, thistle, honeydew, rosemary, sage, euphorbia and ziziphus plant species) collected from five geographical regions (Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Morocco). The objective of the study was to accurately and reliably differentiate the mineral composition among honey varieties. The aim was to establish traceability, to ensure product authenticity and to improve quality control measures within the honey industry. For this purpose, 18 major, minor and trace elements were quantified using microwave digestion, followed by ICP-MS measurement. Statistical evaluation of elemental concentration was undertaken using principal component analysis (PCA) to distinguish honey floral types. The research give light on the specific elements that can serve as indicators for determining the geographical and botanical source of honey. Our findings indicate that certain elements, such as Mn, K, and Ca, are primarily influenced by the type of pollen present in the honey, making them indicative of the floral source. On the other hand, levels of Na, Mg, and Fe were found to be more strongly influenced by environmental factors and can be considered as markers of geographical origin. One novel aspect of this research is the exploration of the relationship between honey minerals and honey botanical source. This was achieved through the analysis of chestnut tree samples and a subsequent comparison with the composition of chestnut honey.
Optimization of Ethanolic Extraction of Phenolic Antioxidants from Lychee and Longan Seeds Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Sai-Ut Samart , Kingwascharapong Passakorn , Mazumder Md. Anisur Rahman , Rawdkuen Saroat
Published: July 2023

Lychee seeds (LS) and longan seeds (LoS) are excellent sources of phenolic compounds (PCs) with strong antioxidant activity (AOA). The aim of this study was to optimize the extraction conditions regarding extraction yield (EY), extractable phenolic compound (EPC), and AOA from LS and LoS using surface response methodology (RSM). Solvent concentration, extraction temperature, time, and solid to liquid ratio were optimized using RSM. Increasing the solid to solvent ratio from 1:05 to 1:40 (w/v), increased EY for LoS, however, EY did not change from 1:20 to 1:40 for LS. Solid–liquid ratio 1:20 was chosen for this study. Increasing the quantity of solvent leads to higher EPC and FRAP. The results showed that LoS exhibited higher AOA than LS measured as DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP, respectively. Ethanol concentrations and temperatures significantly (p < 0.05) affect EY, EPC, and AOA. The results (R2 > 0.85) demonstrated a good fit to the suggested models and a strong correlation between the extraction conditions and the phenolic antioxidant responses. The ethanol concentrations of 41 and 53%, temperatures of 51 and 58 °C, and the corresponding times of 139 and 220 min were the optimal conditions that maximized the EY, EPC, and AOA from LS and LoS.
On Some New Maclaurin’s Type Inequalities for Convex Functions in q-Calculus
Authors: Sitthiwirattham Thanin , Ali Muhammad Aamir , Budak Hüseyin
Published: July 2023

This work establishes some new inequalities to find error bounds for Maclaurin’s formulas in the framework of q-calculus. For this, we first prove an integral identity involving q-integral and q-derivative. Then, we use this new identity to prove some q-integral inequalities for q-differentiable convex functions. The inequalities proved here are very important in the literature because, with their help, we can find error bounds for Maclaurin’s formula in both q and classical calculus.
The Preparation and Characterization of N,N-Dimethyl Acrylamide-Diallyl Maleate Gel/Hydrogel in a Non-Aqueous Solution
Authors: Bhuyan Md Murshed , Islam Mobinul , Jeong Jae-Ho
Published: July 2023

A few drugs need non-aqueous gels for release in the specific region of the intestine. The present work focuses on preparing N,N-Dimethyl acrylamide-Diallyl Maleate (DMAA-DAM) gel in Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solvent by applying different doses of gamma radiation and then characterization. The blend solution of 10%: 10%—DMAA: DAM was prepared in DMSO and irradiated at 2, 5, 10, 20, and 30 kGy doses from the Co-60 gamma source. After extraction, it was observed that all of the radiation doses yielded more than 95% gel content. The best gel content was found for 10 kGy dose, which was 97%. The equilibrium swelling was optimized 1800% of the dried gel for 5 kGy dose. Gel formation was confirmed by analyzing characteristic functional groups and the environment of protons in the gel structure by using FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. The thermal stability was tested using DSC and TGA which showed the glass transition temperature at 86.55 °C and the degradation started at 320 °C. The XRD pattern analysis revealed the semi-crystalline nature of the gel. Therefore, DMAA-DAM gels can be a good candidate for use in different fields of study, especially in drug delivery.
Alumina Ceramic Nanofibers: An Overview of the Spinning Gel Preparation, Manufacturing Process, and Application
Authors: Xia Meng , Ji Shuyu , Fu Yijun , Dai Jiamu , Zhang Junxiong , Ma Xiaomin , Liu Rong
Published: July 2023

As an important inorganic material, alumina ceramic nanofibers have attracted more and more attention because of their excellent thermal stability, high melting point, low thermal conductivity, and good chemical stability. In this paper, the preparation conditions for alumina spinning gel, such as the experimental raw materials, spin finish aid, aging time, and so on, are briefly introduced. Then, various methods for preparing the alumina ceramic nanofibers are described, such as electrospinning, solution blow spinning, centrifugal spinning, and some other preparation processes. In addition, the application of alumina ceramic nanofibers in thermal insulation, high-temperature filtration, catalysis, energy storage, water restoration, sound absorption, bioengineering, and other fields are described. The wide application prospect of alumina ceramic nanofibers highlights its potential as an advanced functional material with various applications. This paper aims to provide readers with valuable insights into the design of alumina ceramic nanofibers and to explore their potential applications, contributing to the advancement of various technologies in the fields of energy, environment, and materials science.
Vat Photopolymerization 3D Printing of Hydrogels with Re-Adjustable Swelling
Authors: Liz-Basteiro Pedro , Reviriego Felipe , Martínez-Campos Enrique , Reinecke Helmut , Elvira Carlos , Rodríguez-Hernández Juan , Gallardo Alberto
Published: July 2023

Vat photopolymerization typically prints highly crosslinked networks. Printing hydrogels, which are also networks but with a high swelling capacity in water and therefore with low crosslinking density, is a challenge for this technique. However, it may be of interest in medicine and in other areas, since it would allow for the preparation of this type of 3D-shaped material. In this work, an approach for printing hydrogels via vat photopolymerization that uses a mixture of stable and hydrolysable crosslinkers has been evaluated so that an initial highly crosslinked network can be printed, although after hydrolysis it becomes a network with low crosslinking. This approach has been studied with PEO/PEG-related formulations, that is, with a PEG-dimethacrylate as a stable crosslinker, a PEO-related derivative carrying β-aminoesters as a degradable crosslinker, and PEG-methyl ether acrylate and hydroxyethyl acrylate as monofunctional monomers. A wide family of formulations has been studied, maintaining the weight percentage of the crosslinkers at 15%. Resins have been studied in terms of viscosity, and the printing process has been evaluated through the generation of Jacobs working curves. It has been shown that this approach allows for the printing of pieces of different shapes and sizes via vat photopolymerization, and that these pieces can re-ajust their water content in a tailored fashion through treatments in different media (PBS or pH 10 buffer).
RALGAPA1 Deletion in Belgian Shepherd Dogs with Cerebellar Ataxia
Authors: Christen Matthias , Zdora Isabel , Leschnik Michael , Jagannathan Vidhya , Puff Christina , Hünerfauth Enrice , Volk Holger A. , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Koch Tessa C. , Schäfer Wencke , Kleiter Miriam , Leeb Tosso
Published: July 2023

Several genetically distinct forms of cerebellar ataxia exist in Belgian shepherd dogs. We investigated a litter in which two puppies developed cerebellar ataxia. The clinical signs stabilized at around six weeks of age, but remained visible into adulthood. Combined linkage and homozygosity mapping delineated a 5.5 Mb critical interval. The comparison of whole-genome sequence data of one affected dog to 929 control genomes revealed a private homozygous ~4.8 kb deletion in the critical interval, Chr8:14,468,376_14,473,136del4761. The deletion comprises exon 35 of the RALGAPA1 gene, XM_038544497.1:c.6080-2893_6944+1003del. It is predicted to introduce a premature stop codon into the transcript, truncating ~23% of the wild-type open reading frame of the encoded Ral GTPase-activating protein catalytic subunit α 1, XP_038400425.1:(p.Val2027Glnfs*7). Genotypes at the deletion showed the expected co-segregation with the phenotype in the family. Genotyping additional ataxic Belgian shepherd dogs revealed three additional homozygous mutant dogs from a single litter, which had been euthanized at five weeks of age due to their severe clinical phenotype. Histopathology revealed cytoplasmic accumulation of granular material within cerebellar Purkinje cells. Genotyping a cohort of almost 900 Belgian shepherd dogs showed the expected genotype–phenotype association and a carrier frequency of 5% in the population. Human patients with loss-of-function variants in RALGAPA1 develop psychomotor disability and early-onset epilepsy. The available clinical and histopathological data, together with current knowledge about RALGAPA1 variants and their functional impact in other species, suggest the RALGAPA1 deletion is the likely causative defect for the observed phenotype in the affected dogs.
The Development of a New Tool to Help Patients and Their Providers Evaluate Self-Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Obad Asma , Singh Ravneet , Nasruddin Saara , Holmes Erin , Rosenthal Meagen
Published: July 2023

Diabetes self-management or self-care activity related to diet, physical activity, and glucose monitoring, among other things, is recognized as important to effectively managing this condition. The aim of this study was to create an assessment tool for evaluating knowledge and self-management behavior in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) for patients and their providers. The study utilized an online survey with a cross-sectional design of adults diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. The survey consisted of 8 sections and a total of 56 questions, which were designed to measure the participants’ current knowledge and behavior regarding diabetes self-management. The total sample size was 306 participants, and the results revealed a significant association between performance on diabetes knowledge questions and self-management behavior (β = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.34, 0.58; p < 0.001). Furthermore, education had a significant impact on diabetes self-management behavior (β = 0.59; 95% CI: 0.14, 1.03; p = 0.01). Overall, the data indicated that participants who performed well on knowledge-based questions exhibited higher scores in desired diabetes management behaviors. Increasing awareness of this work in the diabetic community could facilitate the clinical encounters between diabetic patients and their healthcare providers, with an emphasis on each individual’s needs being taken into consideration.
The Father’s Part: Influences of Paternal Psychopathology and Parenting Behavior on Child and Adolescent Well-Being
Authors: Mestermann Stefan , Arndt Marie , Fasching Peter A. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Kratz Oliver , Moll Gunther H. , Kornhuber Johannes , Eichler Anna ,   on behalf of the IMAC-Mind-Consortium
Published: July 2023

Family influences on child quality of life (QoL) are increasingly understood. Parenting behavior and parent individual psychopathology are among the established predictors of offspring mental health. However, literature often addresses these factors as ‘parental’, lacking further gender-specific differentiation while predominantly studying maternal aspects. Social and biological fathers are still underrepresented in family research. The aim of this study was to analyze paternal contributions to child well-being. A total of 197 father/mother-dyads gave a standardized self-report on parenting behavior and their own psychopathology at child primary school age (t1; 6–10 y). Ratings were compared mutually and associated with child self-rated QoL at t1 and adolescence (t2; 12–14 y). Fathers and mothers differed in psychopathology and most parenting behavior dimensions (positive parenting, involvement, responsible parenting, poor monitoring, and corporal punishment). Father psychopathology made a relevant predictive contribution to girls’ QoL at t2. Boys’ t1 QoL was significantly influenced by maternal parenting factors (positivity and corporal punishment). Compared to mothers, fathers are faced with different individual stressors; paternal parenting behavior is different, while fathers’ influences are significant, particularly for daughters. Father-addressed pre- and intervention programs in child psychotherapeutic treatment are of high relevance.
Designing Inclusive Qualitative Research with Carers of People Living with Dementia: Methodological Insights
Authors: Runacres Jessica , Herron Daniel
Published: July 2023

The support provided by carers of people living with dementia results in savings for the UK economy; however, providing this care has a significant impact on carers. Supports are needed to ensure that carers can continue to provide care, and carers should be involved in the generation of the evidence necessary to develop such support. However, this relies on their ability to meaningfully engage with research, yet current data collection methods create obstacles to engagement. In this paper, we aim to provide a critical examination of approaches to qualitative data collection with carers and produce recommendations for the design of inclusive research. First, different approaches to qualitative data collection are discussed and appraised. Following this, a case study of inclusive research is presented, illustrating how carers can be facilitated to engage in research. Finally, recommendations for inclusive research are offered, including the collection of data without the cared-for person present, building additional care into a study design, providing ‘incidental funds,’ offering sustenance and remuneration, and undertaking research in a neutral space. These recommendations are designed to facilitate the involvement of carers in research and promote the use of more varied or multifaceted methods to develop the current evidence base.
Feasibility and Early Outcomes of a Parent Training Intervention to Engage Parents in Children’s Media Education
Authors: Cavallini Maria Clara , Caravita Simona Carla Silvia , Fandrem Hildegunn
Published: July 2023

The importance of parents in mediating adolescents’ Internet use is documented by many studies in the literature. Very few, however, regard interventions to support parents in this role. We wanted to assess the feasibility and the early outcomes of an Internet-based parent educational group course aimed to support parents in adolescents’ media education. The intervention was conducted with two different groups of parents (N = 20, 75% women; mean age = 46.9 y; SD = 6.3) at different time-points. The intervention included five sessions, during which information about parental mediation strategies was provided and practical exercises based on the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach were proposed. The intervention generated greater awareness, openness and flexibility and increased parental familiarity with technological devices. Overall, the proposed web-based and group-based parent training model has shown good feasibility and promising early outcomes in supporting parents as Internet mediators.
Perspectives on Aging and Quality of Life
Authors: Noto Shinichi
Published: July 2023

The aging of the world’s population and the health problems accompanying it are becoming increasingly severe. Healthcare policies in developed countries focus on how to prevent and treat diseases associated with aging and how to maintain quality of life. Typical age-related diseases include deafness, cataracts, osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus, and dementia. Although the mechanisms by which these diseases develop differ, they are all caused by the accumulation of molecular and cellular damage over time. In addition, age-related diseases can cause a decline in physical and mental functions and the ability to perform activities of daily living, as well as the loss of roles in society and a sense of fulfillment in life. Therefore, there is a need for treatment and measures to accurately grasp and maintain quality of life. This review aims to introduce areas and representative papers expected to be contributed to the special issue of “Aging and Quality of Life”.
Matrine Targets Intestinal Lactobacillus acidophilus to Inhibit Porcine Circovirus Type 2 Infection in Mice
Authors: Cao Zhigang , Ling Xiaoya , Sun Panpan , Zheng Xiaozhong , Zhang Hua , Zhong Jia , Yin Wei , Fan Kuohai , Sun Yaogui , Li Hongquan , Sun Na
Published: July 2023

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) has caused huge economic losses to the pig industry across the world. Matrine is a natural compound that has been shown to regulate intestinal flora and has anti-PCV2 activity in mouse models. PCV2 infection can lead to changes in intestinal flora. The intestinal flora has proved to be one of the important pharmacological targets of the active components of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This study aimed to determine whether matrine exerts anti-PCV2 effects by regulating intestinal flora. In this study, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was used to evaluate the effect of matrine on the intestinal flora of PCV2-infected Kunming (KM) mice. The expression of the Cap gene in the liver and the ileum, the relative expression of IL-1β mRNA, and the Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus) gene in the ileum of mice were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). ELISA was used to analyze the content of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in small intestinal fluid. L. acidophilus was isolated and identified from the feces of KM mice in order to study its anti-PCV2 effect in vivo. The expression of the Cap gene in the liver and the ileum and the relative expression of L. acidophilus and IL-1β mRNA in the ileum were determined by qPCR. The results showed that matrine could reduce the relative expression of IL-1β mRNA by regulating intestinal flora, and that its pharmacological anti-PCV2 and effect may be related to L. acidophilus. L. acidophilus was successfully isolated and identified from the feces of KM mice. The in vivo experiment revealed that administration of L. acidophilus also reduced the relative expression of IL-1β mRNA, and that it had anti-PCV2 effects in PCV2-infected mice. It was found that matrine could regulate the abundance of L. acidophilus in the gut of mice to exert an anti-PCV2 effect and inhibit PCV2-induced inflammatory response.
Prognostic and Clinicopathological Significance of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Expression in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cívico-Ortega José Luis , González-Ruiz Isabel , Ramos-García Pablo , Cruz-Granados David , Samayoa-Descamps Valerie , González-Moles Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2023

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the current evidence in relation to the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpression in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published before November 2022. We evaluated the quality of primary-level studies using the QUIPS tool, conducted meta-analyses, examined inter-study heterogeneity via subgroup analyses and meta-regressions, and performed small-study effects analyses. Fifty primary-level studies (4631 patients) met the inclusion criteria. EGFR overexpression was significantly associated with poor overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.38, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 1.06–1.79, p = 0.02), N+ status (odds ratio [OR] = 1.37, 95%CI = 1.01–1.86, p = 0.04), and moderately–poorly differentiated OSCC (OR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.05–1.94, p = 0.02). In addition, better results were obtained by the application of a cutoff point ≥10% tumor cells with EGFR overexpression (p < 0.001). In conclusion, our systematic review and meta-analysis supports that the immunohistochemical assessment of EGFR overexpression may be useful as a prognostic biomarker for OSCC.
An Overview of PARP Resistance in Ovarian Cancer from a Molecular and Clinical Perspective
Authors: Cordani Nicoletta , Bianchi Tommaso , Ammoni Luca , Cortinovis Diego , Cazzaniga Marina , Lissoni Andrea , Landoni Fabio , Canova Stefania
Published: July 2023

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), a primarily high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSOC), is one of the major causes of high death-to-incidence ratios of all gynecological cancers. Cytoreductive surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy represent the main treatments for this aggressive disease. Molecular characterization of HGSOC has revealed that up to 50% of cases have a deficiency in the homologous recombination repair (HRR) system, which makes these tumors sensitive to poly ADP-ribose inhibitors (PARP-is). However, drug resistance often occurs and overcoming it represents a big challenge. A number of strategies are under investigation, with the most promising being combinations of PARP-is with antiangiogenetic agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Moreover, new drugs targeting different pathways, including the ATR-CHK1-WEE1, the PI3K-AKT and the RAS/RAF/MEK, are under development both in phase I and II–III clinical trials. Nevertheless, there is still a long way to go, and the next few years promise to be exciting.
Tricellulin, α-Catenin and Microfibrillar-Associated Protein 5 Exhibit Concomitantly Altered Immunosignals along with Vascular, Extracellular and Cytoskeletal Elements after Experimental Focal Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Höfling Corinna , Roßner Steffen , Flachmeyer Bianca , Krueger Martin , Härtig Wolfgang , Michalski Dominik
Published: July 2023

Along with initiatives to understand the pathophysiology of stroke in detail and to identify neuroprotective targets, cell-stabilizing elements have gained increasing attention. Although cell culture experiments have indicated that tricellulin, α-catenin and microfibrillar-associated protein 5 (MFAP5) contribute to cellular integrity, these elements have not yet been investigated in the ischemic brain. Applying immunofluorescence labeling, this study explored tricellulin, MFAP5 and α-catenin in non-ischemic and ischemic brain areas of mice (24, 4 h of ischemia) and rats (4 h of ischemia), along with collagen IV and fibronectin as vascular and extracellular matrix constituents and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) and neurofilament light chain (NF-L) as cytoskeletal elements. Immunosignals of tricellulin and notably MFAP5 partially appeared in a fiber-like pattern, and α-catenin appeared more in a dotted pattern. Regional associations with vascular and extracellular constituents were found for tricellulin and α-catenin, particularly in ischemic areas. Due to ischemia, signals of tricellulin, MFAP5 and α-catenin decreased concomitantly with MAP2 and NF-L, whereby MFAP5 provided the most sensitive reaction. For the first time, this study demonstrated ischemia-related alterations in tricellulin, MFAP5 and α-catenin along with the vasculature, extracellular matrix and cytoskeleton. Confirmatory studies are needed, also exploring their role in cellular integrity and the potential for neuroprotective approaches in stroke.
Mixed-Lineage Leukemia 1 Inhibition Enhances the Differentiation Potential of Bovine Embryonic Stem Cells by Increasing H3K4 Mono-Methylation at Active Promoters
Authors: Li Chen , Han Xuejie , Wang Jing , Liu Fang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Zihong , Lu Zhenyu , Yue Yongli , Xiang Jinzhu , Li Xueling
Published: July 2023

Mixed-lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1) introduces 1-, 2- and 3-methylation into histone H3K4 through the evolutionarily conserved set domain. In this study, bovine embryonic stem cells (bESCs, known as bESCs-F7) were established from in vitro-fertilized (IVF) embryos via Wnt signaling inhibition; however, their contribution to the endoderm in vivo is limited. To improve the quality of bESCs, MM-102, an inhibitor of MLL1, was applied to the culture. The results showed that MLL1 inhibition along with GSK3 and MAP2K inhibition (3i) at the embryonic stage did not affect bESCs’ establishment and pluripotency. MLL1 inhibition improved the pluripotency and differentiation potential of bESCs via the up-regulation of stem cell signaling pathways such as PI3K-Akt and WNT. MLL1 inhibition decreased H3K4me1 modification at the promoters and altered the distribution of DNA methylation in bESCs. In summary, MLL1 inhibition gives bESCs better pluripotency, and its application may provide high-quality pluripotent stem cells for domestic animals.
Proteomic Analysis of Dysfunctional Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells Reveals Substantial Differences in Most Common Experimental Models of Chronic Liver Diseases
Authors: Gil Mar , Azkargorta Mikel , Fuster Carla , Martínez-Gómez María , Raurell Imma , Barberá Aurora , Pericàs Juan Manuel , Hide Diana , Elortza Felix , Genescà Joan , Martell María
Published: July 2023

Molecular markers of dedifferentiation of dysfunctional liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) have not been fully elucidated. We aimed at deciphering the molecular profile of dysfunctional LSEC in different pathological scenarios. Flow cytometry was used to sort CD11b−/CD32b+ and CD11b−/CD32b− LSEC from three rat models of liver disease (bile duct ligation-BDL; inhaled carbon tetrachloride-CCl4; and high fat glucose/fructose diet-HFGFD). A full proteomic profile was performed applying nano-scale liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (nLC-MS) and analyzed with PEAKS software. The percentage of CD32b− LSEC varied across groups, suggesting different capillarization processes. Both CD32+ and CD32b− LSEC from models are different from control LSEC, but differently expressed proteins in CD32b− LSEC are significantly higher. Heatmaps evidenced specific protein expression patterns for each model. Analysis of biological significance comparing dysfunctional CD32b− LSEC with specialized CD32b+ LSEC from controls showed central similarities represented by 45 common down-regulated proteins involved in the suppression of the endocytic machinery and 63 common up-regulated proteins associated with the actin-dependent cytoskeleton reorganization. In summary; substantial differences but also similarities in dysfunctional LSEC from the three most common models of liver disease were found, supporting the idea that LSEC may harbor different protein expression profiles according to the etiology or disease stage.
Cancer 3D Models for Metallodrug Preclinical Testing
Authors: Engrácia Diogo M. , Pinto Catarina I. G. , Mendes Filipa
Published: July 2023

Despite being standard tools in research, the application of cellular and animal models in drug development is hindered by several limitations, such as limited translational significance, animal ethics, and inter-species physiological differences. In this regard, 3D cellular models can be presented as a step forward in biomedical research, allowing for mimicking tissue complexity more accurately than traditional 2D models, while also contributing to reducing the use of animal models. In cancer research, 3D models have the potential to replicate the tumor microenvironment, which is a key modulator of cancer cell behavior and drug response. These features make cancer 3D models prime tools for the preclinical study of anti-tumoral drugs, especially considering that there is still a need to develop effective anti-cancer drugs with high selectivity, minimal toxicity, and reduced side effects. Metallodrugs, especially transition-metal-based complexes, have been extensively studied for their therapeutic potential in cancer therapy due to their distinctive properties; however, despite the benefits of 3D models, their application in metallodrug testing is currently limited. Thus, this article reviews some of the most common types of 3D models in cancer research, as well as the application of 3D models in metallodrug preclinical studies.
Genetic Incorporation of Dansylalanine in Human Ferroportin to Probe the Alternating Access Mechanism of Iron Transport
Authors: Amadei Matteo , Niro Antonella , Fullone Maria Rosaria , Miele Rossella , Polticelli Fabio , Musci Giovanni , Bonaccorsi di Patti Maria Carmela
Published: July 2023

Ferroportin (Fpn), a member of the major facilitator superfamily (MFS) of transporters, is the only known iron exporter found in mammals and plays a crucial role in regulating cellular and systemic iron levels. MFSs take on different conformational states during the transport cycle: inward open, occluded, and outward open. However, the precise molecular mechanism of iron translocation by Fpn remains unclear, with conflicting data proposing different models. In this work, amber codon suppression was employed to introduce dansylalanine (DA), an environment-sensitive fluorescent amino acid, into specific positions of human Fpn (V46, Y54, V161, Y331) predicted to undergo major conformational changes during metal translocation. The results obtained indicate that different mutants exhibit distinct fluorescence spectra depending on the position of the fluorophore within the Fpn structure, suggesting that different local environments can be probed. Cobalt titration experiments revealed fluorescence quenching and blue-shifts of λmax in Y54DA, V161DA, and Y331DA, while V46DA exhibited increased fluorescence and blue-shift of λmax. These observations suggest metal-induced conformational transitions, interpreted in terms of shifts from an outward-open to an occluded conformation. Our study highlights the potential of genetically incorporating DA into Fpn, enabling the investigation of conformational changes using fluorescence spectroscopy. This approach holds great promise for the study of the alternating access mechanism of Fpn and advancing our understanding of the molecular basis of iron transport.
Emerging Roles of Cells and Molecules of Innate Immunity in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Tamburini Bartolo , Badami Giusto Davide , La Manna Marco Pio , Shekarkar Azgomi Mojtaba , Caccamo Nadia , Dieli Francesco
Published: July 2023

The inflammatory response that marks Alzheimer’s disease (neuroinflammation) is considered a double-edged sword. Microglia have been shown to play a protective role at the beginning of the disease. Still, persistent harmful stimuli further activate microglia, inducing an exacerbating inflammatory process which impairs β-amyloid peptide clearance capability and leads to neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration. Moreover, microglia also appear to be closely involved in the spread of tau pathology. Soluble TREM2 also represents a crucial player in the neuroinflammatory processes. Elevated levels of TREM2 in cerebrospinal fluid have been associated with increased amyloid plaque burden, neurodegeneration, and cognitive decline in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Understanding the intricate relationship between innate immunity and Alzheimer’s disease will be a promising strategy for future advancements in diagnosis and new therapeutic interventions targeting innate immunity, by modulating its activity. Still, additional and more robust studies are needed to translate these findings into effective treatments. In this review, we focus on the role of cells (microglia, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes) and molecules (TREM2, tau, and β-amyloid) of the innate immune system in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease and their possible exploitation as disease biomarkers and targets of therapeutical approaches.