bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Mammalian and Poultry Species in Food and Pet Food Samples Using 16S rDNA Metabarcoding
Authors: Preckel Laura , Brünen-Nieweler Claudia , Denay Grégoire , Petersen Henning , Cichna-Markl Margit , Dobrovolny Stefanie , Hochegger Rupert
Published: November 2021

The substitution of more appreciated animal species by animal species of lower commercial value is a common type of meat product adulteration. DNA metabarcoding, the combination of DNA barcoding with next-generation sequencing (NGS), plays an increasing role in food authentication. In the present study, we investigated the applicability of a DNA metabarcoding method for routine analysis of mammalian and poultry species in food and pet food products. We analyzed a total of 104 samples (25 reference samples, 56 food products and 23 pet food products) by DNA metabarcoding and by using a commercial DNA array and/or by real-time PCR. The qualitative and quantitative results obtained by the DNA metabarcoding method were in line with those obtained by PCR. Results from the independent analysis of a subset of seven reference samples in two laboratories demonstrate the robustness and reproducibility of the DNA metabarcoding method. DNA metabarcoding is particularly suitable for detecting unexpected species ignored by targeted methods such as real-time PCR and can also be an attractive alternative with respect to the expenses as indicated by current data from the cost accounting of the AGES laboratory. Our results for the commercial samples show that in addition to food products, DNA metabarcoding is particularly applicable to pet food products, which frequently contain multiple animal species and are also highly prone to adulteration as indicated by the high portion of analyzed pet food products containing undeclared species.
Characterization of Vegetative Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis Strains Isolated from Processed Cheese Products in an Italian Dairy Plant
Authors: Catania Angela Maria , Civera Tiziana , Di Ciccio Pierluigi Aldo , Grassi Maria Ausilia , Morra Patrizia , Dalmasso Alessandra
Published: November 2021

Processed cheese is a commercial product characterized by high microbiological stability and extended shelf life obtained through the application of severe heat treatment. However, spore-forming bacteria can survive through thermal processes. Among them, microorganisms belonging to Bacillus genus have been reported. In this study, we examined the microbiological population of the first hours’ production of processed cheeses in an Italian dairy plant during two seasons, between June and October 2020. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was used to identify bacteria colonies, allowing the isolation of Bacillus cereus and Bacillussubtilis strains. These results were further confirmed by amplification and sequencing of 16 rRNA bacterial region. A multi-locus sequence type (MLST) analysis was performed to assess the genetic similarity among a selection of isolates. The fourteen B. cereus strains showed two sequence types: ST-32 was observed in only one strain and the ST-371 in the remaining thirteen isolates. On the contrary, all twenty-one B. subtlis strains, included in the study, showed a new allelic profile for the pycA gene, resulting in a new sequence type: ST-249. For B. cereus strains, analysis of toxin genes was performed. All isolates were positive for nheABC, entFM, and cytK, while hblABCD, bceT, and ces were not detected. Moreover, the biofilm-forming ability of B. cereus and B. subtilis strains was assessed, and all selected isolates proved to be biofilm formers (most of them were stronger producers). Considering the genetical similarity between isolates, jointly with the capacity to produce biofilm, the presence of a recurring Bacillus population could be hypothesized.
An Integrative View of the Role of Lachancea thermotolerans in Wine Technology
Authors: Vicente Javier , Navascués Eva , Calderón Fernando , Santos Antonio , Marquina Domingo , Benito Santiago
Published: November 2021

The interest in Lachancea thermotolerans, a yeast species with unusual characteristics, has notably increased in all ecological, evolutionary, and industrial aspects. One of the key characteristics of L. thermotolerans is the production of high quantities of lactic acid compared to other yeast species. Its evolution has mainly been driven by the influence of the environment and domestication, allowing several metabolic traits to arise. The molecular regulation of the fermentative process in L. thermotolerans shows interesting routes that play a complementary or protective role against fermentative stresses. One route that is activated under this condition is involved in the production of lactic acid, presenting a complete system for its production, showing the involvement of several enzymes and transporters. In winemaking, the use of L. thermotolerans is nowadays mostly focused in early–medium-maturity grape varieties, in which over-ripening can produce wines lacking acidity and with high concentrations of ethanol. Recent studies have reported new positive influences on quality apart from lactic acid acidification, such as improvements in color, glutathione production, aroma, malic acid, polysaccharides, or specific enzymatic activities that constitute interesting new criteria for selecting better strains. This positive influence on winemaking has increased the availability of commercial strains during recent years, allowing comparisons among some of those products. Initially, the management of L. thermotolerans was thought to be combined with Saccaharomyces cerevisiae to properly end alcoholic fermentation, but new studies are innovating and reporting combinations with other key enological microorganisms such as Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Oenocous oeni, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, or other non-Saccharomyces.
Radio and X-ray Observations of the Restarted Radio Galaxy in the Galaxy Cluster CL 0838+1948
Authors: Giacintucci Simona , Clarke Tracy , Kassim Namir E. , Peters Wendy , Polisensky Emil
Published: November 2021

We present VLA Low-band Ionosphere and Transient Experiment (VLITE) 338 MHz observations of the galaxy cluster CL 0838+1948. We combine the VLITE data with Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope 610 MHz observations and survey data. The central galaxy hosts a 250 kpc source whose emission is dominated by two large lobes at low frequencies. At higher frequencies, a pair of smaller lobes (∼30 kpc) is detected within the galaxy optical envelope. The observed morphology is consistent with a restarted radio galaxy. The outer lobes have a spectral index αout=1.6, indicating that they are old, whereas the inner lobes have αinn=0.6, typical for an active source. Spectral modeling confirms that the outer emission is a dying source whose nuclear activity switched off not more than 110 Myr ago. Using archival Chandra X-ray data, we compare the radio and hot gas emission. We find that the active radio source is contained within the innermost and X-ray brightest region, possibly a galactic corona. Alternatively, it could be the remnant of a larger cool core whose outer layers have been heated by the former epoch of activity that has generated the outer lobes.
Selective Sweeps and Polygenic Adaptation Drive Local Adaptation along Moisture and Temperature Gradients in Natural Populations of Coast Redwood and Giant Sequoia
Authors: De La Torre Amanda , Sekhwal Manoj , Neale David
Published: November 2021

Dissecting the genomic basis of local adaptation is a major goal in evolutionary biology and conservation science. Rapid changes in the climate pose significant challenges to the survival of natural populations, and the genomic basis of long-generation plant species is still poorly understood. Here, we investigated genome-wide climate adaptation in giant sequoia and coast redwood, two iconic and ecologically important tree species. We used a combination of univariate and multivariate genotype–environment association methods and a selective sweep analysis using non-overlapping sliding windows. We identified genomic regions of potential adaptive importance, showing strong associations to moisture variables and mean annual temperature. Our results found a complex architecture of climate adaptation in the species, with genomic regions showing signatures of selective sweeps, polygenic adaptation, or a combination of both, suggesting recent or ongoing climate adaptation along moisture and temperature gradients in giant sequoia and coast redwood. The results of this study provide a first step toward identifying genomic regions of adaptive significance in the species and will provide information to guide management and conservation strategies that seek to maximize adaptive potential in the face of climate change.
CircNFIC Balances Inflammation and Apoptosis by Sponging miR-30e-3p and Regulating DENND1B Expression
Authors: Chen Yangfeng , Wang Zhijun , Chen Xiaolan , Peng Xi , Nie Qinghua
Published: November 2021

Disordered inflammation and apoptosis are closely related to diseases, and inflammation can also promote cell apoptosis, where growing evidence has shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is the main component of the cytoderm of gram-negative bacterium, which can cause inflammatory responses in macrophages. We constructed an inflammatory model by exposing chicken macrophage cell lines (also known as HD11) to LPS for in vitro experiments. In this study, we validated a novel circRNA—circNFIC—which was dramatically up-regulated in tissues infected by coccidia and cells exposed to LPS. Besides, circNFIC could significantly promote the expression levels of pro-inflammation factors, including (IL-1β, TNFα, and IFNγ) and pro-apoptosis maker genes (caspase 3 and caspase 8) in HD11 exposed to LPS or not. In terms of mechanism, circNFIC exerted notable effects on DENND1B to regulate cell inflammation and apoptosis by sponging miR-30e-3p. The molecular functions played by miR-30e-3p and DENND1B have been explored, respectively. In addition, the effects of circNFIC knockdown suppressing the expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptosis functions could be reversed by a miR-30e-3p inhibitor. On the whole, circNFIC promoted cell inflammation and apoptosis via the miR-30e-3p/DENND1B axis.
Relationships among the Internal Health Locus of Control, Mental Health Problems, and Subjective Well-Being of Adults in South Korea
Authors: Shin Sunhwa , Lee Eunhye
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to confirm the relationship between internal health locus of control, mental health problems, and subjective well-being in adults during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, the mediating effect of mental health problems on the relationship between internal health locus of control and subjective well-being was examined. A cross-sectional descriptive design was conducted via online survey. The participants were 600 adults over 20 years of age living in South Korea. The collected data were analyzed using hierarchical regression analysis and SPSS Process Macro (Model 4). As a result of the study, the internal health locus of control had a significant negative effect on mental health problems. In addition, in the process of the internal health locus of control affecting subjective well-being, the mediating effect of mental health problems was significantly shown. In the period of an infectious disease pandemic such as COVID-19, it is necessary to establish a strong internal health locus of control of individuals and to promote monitoring and treatment introduction for those with a low internal health locus of control. In addition, it was discussed that controlling mental health problems can improve subjective well-being, which is life satisfaction and happiness.
Integrating the Public Health Services Model into Age-Friendly Pharmacies: A Case Study on the Pharmacies in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Shih-Chang , Lee Kuan-Han , Horng Der-Juinn , Huang Po-Jui
Published: November 2021

Taiwan is expected to become a superaged society by 2026. Community pharmacies have recently joined Taiwan’s primary care system; they have great potential to provide professional healthcare services. This study examined whether the services provided by community pharmacists enhance medication adherence, enable the identification and solution of drug therapy problems, and are accepted by community residents. The Department of Public Health, Taoyuan City, collaborated with the Taoyuan Pharmacist Association over 11 months in 2018 in enabling pharmacists to dispense prescriptions and provide medication adherence consultations, cognitive services, and home and institutional medical care services. This study designed four satisfaction questionnaires to assess the feasibility and performance of these services. Regarding the services related to medication knowledge and adherence, 92.10% of the patients reported overall satisfaction, and all understanding and ability scores were improved in more than 95% of patients. The number of patients highly cooperative regarding their medication had risen from 14 to 234 after the intervention, and the number with low medication adherence had dropped from 533 to 33. More than 90% of respondents indicated that the institutional medical care services had significantly improved their medication knowledge and behaviors. The feasibility of the incorporation of integrated the public health services model into age-friendly pharmacies was confirmed by this study.
Nanostring-Based Identification of the Gene Expression Profile in Trigger Finger Samples
Authors: Kolhe Ravindra , Ghilzai Umar , Mondal Ashis K. , Pundkar Chetan , Ahluwalia Pankaj , Sahajpal Nikhil S. , Chen Jie , Isales Carlos M. , Fulcher Mark , Fulzele Sadanand
Published: November 2021

Trigger finger is a common yet vastly understudied fibroproliferative hand pathology, severely affecting patients’ quality of life. Consistent trauma due to inadequate positioning within the afflicted finger’s tendon/pulley system leads to cellular dysregulation and eventual fibrosis. While the genetic characteristics of the fibrotic tissue in the trigger finger have been studied, the pathways that govern the initiation and propagation of fibrosis are still unknown. The complete gene expression profile of the trigger finger has never been explored. Our study has used the Nanostring nCounter gene expression assay to investigate the molecular signaling involved in trigger finger pathogenesis. We collected samples from patients undergoing trigger finger (n = 4) release surgery and compared the gene expression to carpal tunnel tissue (n = 4). Nanostring nCounter analysis identified 165 genes that were differentially regulated; 145 of these genes were upregulated, whereas 20 genes were downregulated. We found that several collagen genes were significantly upregulated, and a regulatory matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), MMP-3, was downregulated. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that several known signaling pathways were dysregulated, such as the TGF-β1 and Wnt signaling pathways. We also found several novel signaling pathways (e.g., PI3K, MAPK, JAK-STAT, and Notch) differentially regulated in trigger finger. The outcome of our study helps in understanding the molecular signaling pathway involved in the pathogenesis of the trigger finger.
Abortion in Countries with Restrictive Abortion Laws—Possible Directions and Solutions from the Perspective of Poland
Authors: Zaręba Kornelia , Herman Krzysztof , Kołb-Sielecka Ewelina , Jakiel Grzegorz
Published: November 2021

The tendency towards the radicalization of abortion law is observed in numerous countries, including Poland. The aim of the present paper was to determine the main factors influencing the number of abortions performed worldwide and to indicate the main directions which should be followed to improve the patients’ well-being. The authors conducted their search in the PubMed of the National Library of Medicine and Google Scholar. Databases were extensively searched for all original and review articles/book chapters in English until June 2021. The main problems associated with the contemporary policy of birth regulation include no possibility of undergoing a termination because of the conscience clause invoked by the medical personnel, restrictive abortion law and lack of sexual education. Minimal changes that should be considered are: improved sex education and the availability of contraception, free access to abortion-inducing drugs with adequate information provided by qualified medical personnel in countries with a conscience clause invoked by the personnel, and the development of an international network which would facilitate undergoing a pregnancy termination abroad to provide women with access to legal abortion assisted by professional medical personnel.
Associations of Sleep Quality, Anxiety, and Depression with Cognitive and Executive Functions among Community-Dwelling Women Aged ≥ 65 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Parra-Díaz Ana Belén , Aibar-Almazán Agustín , Martínez-Amat Antonio , Jiménez-García José Daniel , Álvarez-Salvago Francisco , Hita-Contreras Fidel
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the associations of sleep quality, anxiety, and depression with cognitive performance, executive functions, and verbal fluency among women aged ≥ 65 years; (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 241 women (72.52 ± 3.93 years). Cognitive performance (Mini-Mental State Examination) and impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), verbal fluency (Isaacs test) and executive function (Trail Making Test), Sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep quality Index) and anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) were determined; (3) Results: The linear regression analysis indicated that anxiety, depression and age, were related to lower Mini-Mental State Examination score (adjusted R2 = 0.306), and age, anxiety and daytime dysfunction were linked to reduced Montreal Cognitive Assessment score (adjusted R2 = 0.248). Age and daytime dysfunction were associated with worse verbal fluency (adjusted R2 = 0.094). Finally, sleep latency, sleep disturbances, the Pittsburgh Sleep quality Index total score were associated with longer times in TMT-A (adjusted R2 = 0.758) and TMT-B (adjusted R2 = 0.508); (4) Conclusions: Sleep quality was associated with cognitive performance, verbal fluency and executive functions. Besides, both anxiety and depression were related with cognitive performance, while only anxiety was linked to executive functions. As for confounders, age was associated with cognitive performance and verbal fluency.
Comparative Evaluation of the Rainfall Erosivity in the Rieti Province, Central Italy, Using Empirical Formulas and a Stochastic Rainfall Generator
Authors: Petroselli Andrea , Apollonio Ciro , De Luca Davide Luciano , Salvaneschi Pietro , Pecci Massimo , Marras Tatiana , Schirone Bartolomeo
Published: November 2021

Soil erosion caused by intense rainfall events is one of the major problems affecting agricultural and forest ecosystems. The Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) is probably the most adopted approach for rainfall erosivity estimation, but in order to be properly employed it needs high resolution rainfall data which are often unavailable. In this case, empirical formulas, employing aggregated rainfall data, are commonly used. In this work, we select 12 empirical formulas for the estimation of the USLE rainfall erosivity in order to assess their reliability. Moreover, we used a Stochastic Rainfall Generator (SRG) to simulate a long and high-resolution rainfall time series with the aim of assessing its application to rainfall erosivity estimations. From the analysis, performed in the Rieti province of Central Italy, we identified three equations which seem to provide better results. Moreover, the use of the selected SRG seems promising and it could help in solving the problem of hydrological data scarcity and consequently guarantee major accuracy in soil erosion estimation.
Long-Term Hydrological Regime Monitoring of a Mediterranean Agro-Ecological Wetland Using Landsat Imagery: Correlation with the Water Renewal Rate of a Shallow Lake
Authors: Vera-Herrera Lucía , Soria Juan , Pérez Javier , Romo Susana
Published: November 2021

The Natural Park of Albufera (Valencia, Spain) is one of the Spanish Mediterranean wetlands where rice is cultivated intensively. The hydrology of the Albufera Lake, located in the center, combines natural contributions with complex human management. The aim of our study was to develop a new methodology to accurately detect the volume of flood water in complex natural environments which experience significant seasonal changes due to climate and agriculture. The study included 132 Landsat images, covering a 15-year period. The algorithm was adjusted using the NDWI index and simultaneous measurements of water levels in the rice fields. The NDVI index was applied to monitor the cultivated area during the summer. Lake inflows and residence times were also evaluated to quantify how the hydrodynamic of the lake is conditioned by the agricultural management. The algorithm developed is confirmed as a useful ecological tool to monitor the flood cycle of the wetland, being able to detect even the lowest water levels. The flood dynamics are consistent over the fifteen years, being in line with the rice cultivation cycle. Water renewal in Albufera lake is altered with respect to that expected according to the rainfall recorded in the study area, so an improvement in the water management of the hydrological basin is required to optimize the runoff during the rainiest months.
Identifying and Minimizing Errors in the Measurement of Early Childhood Development: Lessons Learned from the Cognitive Testing of the ECDI2030
Authors: Cappa Claudia , Petrowski Nicole , De Castro Elga Filipa , Geisen Emily , LeBaron Patricia , Allen-Leigh Betania , Place Jean Marie , Scanlon Paul J.
Published: November 2021

Challenges in measuring early childhood development (ECD) at scale have been documented, yet little is known about the specific difficulties related to questionnaire design and question interpretation. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the challenges of measuring ECD at scale in the context of household surveys and to show how to overcome them. The paper uses examples from the cognitive interviewing exercises that were conducted as part of the methodological work to develop a measure of ECD outcomes, the ECDI2030. It describes the methodological work carried out to inform the selection and improvement of question items and survey implementation tools as a fundamental step to reduce and mitigate systematic measurement error and improve data quality. The project consisted of a total of five rounds of testing, comprising 191 one-on-one, in-depth cognitive interviews across six countries (Bulgaria, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Uganda, and the USA). Qualitative data analysis methods were used to determine matches and mismatches between intention of items and false positives or false negative answers among subgroups of respondents. Key themes emerged that could potentially lead to systematic measurement error in population-based surveys on ECD: (1) willingness of child to perform task versus ability of child to perform task; (2) performing task versus performing task correctly; (3) identifying letters or numbers versus recognizing letters or numbers; (4) consistently performing task versus correctly performing task; (5) applicability of skills being asked versus observability of skills being asked; and (6) language production versus language comprehension. Through an iterative process of testing and subsequent revision, improvements were made to item wording, response options, and interviewer training instructions. Given the difficulties inherent in population-level data collection in the context of global monitoring, this study’s findings confirm the importance of cognitive testing as a crucial step in careful, culturally relevant, and sensitive questionnaire design and as a means to reduce response bias in cross-cultural contexts.
The Impact of Emotion and Sex on Fabrication and False Memory Formation
Authors: Johannsdottir Kamilla Run , Rafnsdottir Halldora Bjorg , Oddsson Andri Haukstein , Gylfason Haukur Freyr
Published: November 2021

The aim of the present study was to examine how negative emotion and sex affect self-generated errors as in fabrication set-up and later false recognition of those errors. In total, 120 university students volunteered to take part in the study. Participants were assigned at random into two equal sized groups (N = 60) depending on the type of event they received (negative emotional or neutral). We expected that fabrication and false recognition would be enhanced for the emotional event compared to the neutral one. We further hypothesized that both the willingness to fabricate and later false recognition would be enhanced for women compared with men. The results partly confirmed the hypotheses. The results showed that emotional valence (negative) affects both the willingness to fabricate about events that never took place, and the recognition of the fabrication as true at a later point. Women and men were equally likely to fabricate but women were more likely to recognize their fabrication, particularly for the emotional event. The results are discussed in the context of prior work.
Body Dissatisfaction and Its Association with Health-Related Factors in Rural and Urban Mexican Adolescents from the State of Jalisco
Authors: Rivera-Ochoa María , Arroyo-Bello Marta , Mañas Asier , Quesada-González Carlos , Vizmanos-Lamotte Barbara , González-Gross Marcela , Guadalupe-Grau Amelia
Published: November 2021

Background: To better understand Mexican adolescent’s body self-perception, this study aimed to analyze their body dissatisfaction (BD) levels according to sex and place of residence. We also aimed to explore differences in body composition (BC), physical fitness (PF), and physical activity (PA) between satisfied and dissatisfied adolescents and to find the associations between BD and these parameters. Methods: Cross-sectional, observational study carried out in Jalisco (Mexico) in which 451 adolescents (43.68% males, 43.90% rural) aged 13–17 years were evaluated. BD and self-perceived PF and PA were assessed with validated questionnaires, while objectively measured PF (strength, explosive strength, speed-agility, and cardiovascular fitness) was assessed using field tests. To evaluate BC, anthropometric measures and bioelectric impedance analysis were carried out. Regression analysis was used to ascertain the associations between health-related factors and body dissatisfaction. Results: Girls obtained higher scores on the BD questionnaire than boys (11.12 ± 3.13 vs. 10.33 ± 2.73; p < 0.05), whereas no geographical differences between rural and urban adolescents were found. BD was positively associated with higher fat mass (β = 0.15; p < 0.001), and negatively associated with muscle mass and PF (β = −0.24 and β = −0.23; p < 0.001). However, PA was not associated with any of the measured parameters. Conclusions: selected parameters of BC, PF, and sex have an impact on the Mexican adolescent’s body satisfaction levels and should be considered when designing future health policies.
Influence Analysis of Sustainability Perceptions on Sense of Community and Support for Sustainable Community Development in Relocated Communities
Authors: Lin Yi-Hsien , Lee Tsung-Hung , Wang Chiu-Kuang
Published: November 2021

This study aims to examine a theoretical model using sustainability perceptions, including environmental; sociocultural; economic; and life satisfaction, sense of community, and support for sustainable community development among the indigenous people of two relocated communities in Taiwan. A total of 747 usable questionnaires were collected and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The analytical results indicated that sense of community is an antecedent of support for sustainable community development in both relocated communities. Life satisfaction perceptions can influence the sense of community in Rinari. Additionally, environmental and economic perceptions are antecedents of the sense of community in New Laiyi. Finally, this study provides theoretical implications to fill the gaps in previous research, and offers valuable insights for promoting residents’ support for sustainable community development in aboriginal communities; thus, this study has significant contributions, theoretically and practically.
Dietary Exposure of the Taiwan Population to Mercury Content in Various Seafood Assessed by a Total Diet Study
Authors: Lin Pinpin , Nan Fan-Hua , Ling Min-Pei
Published: November 2021

This paper examines the health risks of exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) through the consumption of mercury-contaminated seafood in Taiwan, based on the total diet study (TDS) method. Samples of seafood (n = 140) were purchased at fishing harbors or supermarkets and classified into seven categories (pelagic fish, inshore fish, farmed fish, shellfish, cephalopods, crustaceans, and algae). For each sample, we analyzed raw and cooked versions and compared the concentration difference. Total mercury (THg) was detected at the highest rate and in the highest concentrations in pelagic fish, followed by inshore fish and other farmed fish. The average concentration of THg was higher after cooking. In a 75th percentile scenario, the hazard indices for children aged 1 to 3 years and children aged 4 to 6 years were higher than 100% of the provisional tolerable weekly intake. Taking into consideration the risk assessment results, MeHg concentrations, and the nutritional composition of fish, we have provided weekly consumption advisories for children aged 1 to 3 years, children aged 4 to 6 years, and childbearing women aged 19 to 49 years. The weekly consumption advisories for childbearing women are 35 g/week of pelagic fish and 245 g/week of inshore fish based on the risk results from MeHg and the potential benefits from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake.
Socio-Economic Determinants of Health Literacy in High School Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Duplaga Mariusz , Grysztar Marcin
Published: November 2021

Today, a person’s health literacy (HL) is perceived as a critical determinant for their health. It is well known that limited health literacy is associated with harmful health behaviours, the lower use of preventive services, problems in making use of healthcare resources and poor skills for the self-management of chronic disorders. This study analysed the level and factors associated with HL in high school students in southern Poland. The study is based on the data from a paper-and-pencil survey of high schools students in the Malopolska Voivodshop. The students were selected using a two-stage cluster random sampling procedure. The level of HL was assessed with the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire, consisting of 47 items. Univariate logistic and linear regression models were applied to analyse the association between general HL score and the main domain-specific indices. The respondents whose parents had attended University and came from more affluent families were less likely to demonstrate limited HL. There was a significant positive relationship between the self-assessment of the economic situation, size of accommodation, the level of expenditure on a mobile phone and receiving external support, the size of the book collection at home, and domain-specific HL sub-indices. In conclusion, among socio-demographic factors, the parents’ education is the only consistent predictor of the level of HL in high school students. Furthermore, most variables reflecting the economic status of the respondent’s family are significantly associated with the general HL score and its sub-indices.
The Meaning of Volunteering among People with Severe Mental Disorders: A Phenomenological Qualitative Study
Authors: Pérez-Corrales Jorge , Güeita-Rodríguez Javier , Huertas-Hoyas Elisabet , García-Bravo Cristina , Marconnot Romain , Jiménez-Antona Carmen , Velarde-García Juan Francisco , Palacios-Ceña Domingo
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to describe the perspectives of people with severe mental disorders who volunteer regarding the relationship between volunteering and work, from the framework of personal recovery. A qualitative phenomenological study was undertaken. Purposive sampling was conducted on people with severe mental disorders who participated in volunteering. In-depth unstructured and semi-structured interviews were used, during which researchers took handwritten field notes. An inductive thematic analysis was applied. Twenty-three participants with severe mental disorders were included (16 men and 7 women) with a mean age of 47 years. Three themes emerged: (a) the relationship between volunteering and working; (b) thinking about a possible future job; and (c) disclosing a mental health condition. Volunteering is perceived as a substitute to working, although not all participants feel able to work, and they do not always disclose that they suffer from a mental health condition.
Prediction of Groundwater Level Variations in a Changing Climate: A Danish Case Study
Authors: Gonzalez Rebeca Quintero , Arsanjani Jamal Jokar
Published: November 2021

Shallow groundwater is a key resource for human activities and ecosystems, and is susceptible to alterations caused by climate change, causing negative socio-economic and environmental impacts, and increasing the need to predict the evolution of the water table. The main objective of this study is to gain insights about future water level changes based on different climate change scenarios using machine learning algorithms, while addressing the following research questions: (a) how will the water table be affected by climate change in the future based on different socio-economic pathways (SSPs)?: (b) do machine learning models perform well enough in predicting changes of the groundwater in Denmark? If so, which ML model outperforms for forecasting these changes? Three ML algorithms were used in R: artificial neural networks (ANN), support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF). The ML models were trained with time-series data of groundwater levels taken at wells in the Hovedstaden region, for the period 1990–2018. Several independent variables were used to train the models, including different soil parameters, topographical features and climatic variables for the time period and region selected. Results show that the RF model outperformed the other two, resulting in a higher R-squared and lower mean absolute error (MAE). The future prediction maps for the different scenarios show little variation in the water table. Nevertheless, predictions show that it will rise slightly, mostly in the order of 0–0.25 m, especially during winter. The proposed approach in this study can be used to visualize areas where the water levels are expected to change, as well as to gain insights about how big the changes will be. The approaches and models developed with this paper could be replicated and applied to other study areas, allowing for the possibility to extend this model to a national level, improving the prevention and adaptation plans in Denmark and providing a more global overview of future water level predictions to more efficiently handle future climate change scenarios.
Upregulated Guanine Deaminase Is Involved in Hyperpigmentation of Seborrheic Keratosis via Uric Acid Release
Authors: Cheong Kyung Ah , Kil In Sup , Ko Hyuk Wan , Lee Ai-Young
Published: November 2021

Seborrheic keratosis, which is a benign tumor composed of epidermal keratinocytes, develops common in the elderly. Uric acid generated by upregulated guanine deaminase (GDA) has been identified to cause UV-induced keratinocyte senescence in seborrheic keratosis. Seborrheic keratosis is also frequently pigmented. Growing evidences indicate that hyperuricemia is a risk factor of acanthosis nigricans, an acquired skin hyperpigmentation. The objective of this study was to investigate role of GDA and its metabolic end product, uric acid, in hyperpigmentation of patients with seborrheic keratosis using their lesional and non-lesional skin specimen sets and cultured primary human epidermal keratinocytes with or without GDA overexpression or uric acid treatment. GDA-overexpressing keratinocytes or their conditioned media containing uric acid increased expression levels of MITF and tyrosinase in melanocytes. Uric acid released from keratinocytes was facilitated by ABCG2 transporter with the help of PDZK1 interaction. Released uric acid was taken by URAT1 transporter in melanocytes, stimulating melanogenesis through p38 MAPK activation. Overall, GDA upregulation in seborrheic keratosis plays a role in melanogenesis via its metabolic end product uric acid, suggesting that seborrheic keratosis as an example of hyperpigmentation associated with photoaging.
On the Edge of Dispensability, the Chloroplast ndh Genes
Authors: Sabater Bartolomé
Published: November 2021

The polypeptides encoded by the chloroplast ndh genes and some nuclear genes form the thylakoid NADH dehydrogenase (Ndh) complex, homologous to the mitochondrial complex I. Except for Charophyceae (algae related to higher plants) and a few Prasinophyceae, all eukaryotic algae lack ndh genes. Among vascular plants, the ndh genes are absent in epiphytic and in some species scattered among different genera, families, and orders. The recent identification of many plants lacking plastid ndh genes allows comparison on phylogenetic trees and functional investigations of the ndh genes. The ndh genes protect Angiosperms under various terrestrial stresses, maintaining efficient photosynthesis. On the edge of dispensability, ndh genes provide a test for the natural selection of photosynthesis-related genes in evolution. Variable evolutionary environments place Angiosperms without ndh genes at risk of extinction and, probably, most extant ones may have lost ndh genes recently. Therefore, they are evolutionary endpoints in phylogenetic trees. The low number of sequenced plastid DNA and the long lifespan of some Gymnosperms lacking ndh genes challenge models about the role of ndh genes protecting against stress and promoting leaf senescence. Additional DNA sequencing in Gymnosperms and investigations into the molecular mechanisms of their response to stress will provide a unified model of the evolutionary and functional consequences of the lack of ndh genes.
Antiseptic 9-Meric Peptide with Potency against Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Infection
Authors: Krishnan Manigandan , Choi Joonhyeok , Jang Ahjin , Yoon Young Kyung , Kim Yangmee
Published: November 2021

Carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) infection can cause acute host reactions that lead to high-fatality sepsis, making it important to develop new therapeutic options. Previously, we developed a short 9-meric peptide, Pro9-3D, with significant antibacterial and cytotoxic effects. In this study, we attempted to produce safer peptide antibiotics against CRAB by reversing the parent sequence to generate R-Pro9-3 and R-Pro9-3D. Among the tested peptides, R-Pro9-3D had the most rapid and effective antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, particularly clinical CRAB isolates. Analyses of antimicrobial mechanisms based on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-neutralization, LPS binding, and membrane depolarization, as well as SEM ultrastructural investigations, revealed that R-Pro9-3D binds strongly to LPS and impairs the membrane integrity of CRAB by effectively permeabilizing its outer membrane. R-Pro9-3D was also less cytotoxic and had better proteolytic stability than Pro9-3D and killed biofilm forming CRAB. As an LPS-neutralizing peptide, R-Pro9-3D effectively reduced LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in RAW 264.7 cells. The antiseptic abilities of R-Pro9-3D were also investigated using a mouse model of CRAB-induced sepsis, which revealed that R-Pro9-3D reduced multiple organ damage and attenuated systemic infection by acting as an antibacterial and immunosuppressive agent. Thus, R-Pro9-3D displays potential as a novel antiseptic peptide for treating Gram-negative CRAB infections.
Lipidomics Reveals Cisplatin-Induced Renal Lipid Alterations during Acute Kidney Injury and Their Attenuation by Cilastatin
Authors: Moreno-Gordaliza Estefanía , Marazuela Maria Dolores , Pastor Óscar , Lázaro Alberto , Gómez-Gómez María Milagros
Published: November 2021

Nephrotoxicity is a major complication of cisplatin-based chemotherapy, leading to acute kidney injury in ca. 30% of patients, with no preventive intervention or treatment available for clinical use. Cilastatin has proved to exert a nephroprotective effect for cisplatin therapies in in vitro and in vivo models, having recently entered clinical trials. A deeper understanding at the molecular level of cisplatin-induced renal damage and the effect of potential protective agents could be key to develop successful nephroprotective therapies and to establish new biomarkers of renal damage and nephroprotection. A targeted lipidomics approach, using LC-MS/MS, was employed for the quantification of 108 lipid species (comprising phospholipids, sphingolipids, and free and esterified cholesterol) in kidney cortex and medulla extracts from rats treated with cisplatin and/or cilastatin. Up to 56 and 63 lipid species were found to be altered in the cortex and medulla, respectively, after cisplatin treatment. Co-treatment with cilastatin attenuated many of these lipid changes, either totally or partially with respect to control levels. Multivariate analysis revealed that lipid species can be used to discriminate renal damage and nephroprotection, with cholesterol esters being the most discriminating species, along with sulfatides and phospholipids. Potential diagnostic biomarkers of cisplatin-induced renal damage and cilastatin nephroprotection were also found.
Trabecular Bone Parameters, TIMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-13, VEGF Expression and Immunolocalization in Bone and Cartilage in Newborn Offspring Prenatally Exposed to Fumonisins
Authors: Tomaszewska Ewa , Rudyk Halyna , Świetlicka Izabela , Hułas-Stasiak Monika , Donaldson Janine , Arczewska Marta , Muszyński Siemowit , Dobrowolski Piotr , Mielnik-Błaszczak Maria , Arciszewski Marcin Bartłomiej , Kushnir Volodymyr , Brezvyn Oksana , Muzyka Viktor , Kotsyumbas Ihor
Published: November 2021

Fumonisins are protein serine/threonine phosphatase inhibitors and potent inhibitors of sphingosine N-acyltransferase (ceramide synthase) disrupting de novo sphingolipid biosynthesis. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of fumonisins (FB) exposure from the 7th day of pregnancy to parturition on offspring bone development. The rats were randomly allocated to either a control group (n = 6), not treated with FBs, or to one of the two groups intoxicated with FBs (either at 60 mg FB/kg b.w. or at 90 mg FB/kg b.w. Numerous negative, offspring sex-dependent effects of maternal FB exposure were observed with regards to the histomorphometry of trabecular bone. These effects were due to FB-inducted alterations in bone metabolism, as indicated by changes in the expression of selected proteins involved in bone development: tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP-2), matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8), matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The immunolocalization of MMPs and TIMP-2 was performed in trabecular and compact bone, as well as articular and growth plate cartilages. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the exposure of pregnant dams to FB negatively affected the expression of certain proteins responsible for bone matrix degradation in newborns prenatally exposed to FB in a dose- and sex-dependent manner.
Sleep Disruption Worsens Seizures: Neuroinflammation as a Potential Mechanistic Link
Authors: Bonilla-Jaime Herlinda , Zeleke Helena , Rojas Asheebo , Espinosa-Garcia Claudia
Published: November 2021

Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and daytime sleepiness, are common in people diagnosed with epilepsy. These disturbances can be attributed to nocturnal seizures, psychosocial factors, and/or the use of anti-epileptic drugs with sleep-modifying side effects. Epilepsy patients with poor sleep quality have intensified seizure frequency and disease progression compared to their well-rested counterparts. A better understanding of the complex relationship between sleep and epilepsy is needed, since approximately 20% of seizures and more than 90% of sudden unexpected deaths in epilepsy occur during sleep. Emerging studies suggest that neuroinflammation, (e.g., the CNS immune response characterized by the change in expression of inflammatory mediators and glial activation) may be a potential link between sleep deprivation and seizures. Here, we review the mechanisms by which sleep deprivation induces neuroinflammation and propose that neuroinflammation synergizes with seizure activity to worsen neurodegeneration in the epileptic brain. Additionally, we highlight the relevance of sleep interventions, often overlooked by physicians, to manage seizures, prevent epilepsy-related mortality, and improve quality of life.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea as an Acceleration Trigger of Cellular Senescence Processes through Telomere Shortening
Authors: Turkiewicz Szymon , Ditmer Marta , Sochal Marcin , Białasiewicz Piotr , Strzelecki Dominik , Gabryelska Agata
Published: November 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is chronic disorder which is characterized by recurrent pauses of breathing during sleep which leads to hypoxia and its two main pathological sequelae: oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Both are also associated with cellular senescence. As OSA patients present with higher prevalence of age-related disorders, such as atrial hypertension or diabetes mellitus type 2, a relationship between OSA and accelerated aging is observable. Furthermore, it has been established that these OSA are associated with telomere shortening. This process in OSA is likely caused by increased oxidative DNA damage due to increased reactive oxygen species levels, DNA repair disruptions, hypoxia, chronic inflammation, and circadian clock disturbances. The aim of the review is to summarize study outcomes on changes in leukocyte telomere length (LTL) in OSA patients and describe possible molecular mechanisms which connect cellular senescence and the pathophysiology of OSA. The majority of OSA patients are characterized by LTL attrition due to oxidative stress, hypoxia and inflammation, which make a kind of positive feedback loop, and circadian clock disturbance.
Fibrinogen and Antifibrinolytic Proteins: Interactions and Future Therapeutics
Authors: Pechlivani Nikoletta , Kearney Katherine J. , Ajjan Ramzi A.
Published: November 2021

Thrombus formation remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Current antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapies have been effective at reducing vascular events, but at the expense of increased bleeding risk. Targeting proteins that interact with fibrinogen and which are involved in hypofibrinolysis represents a more specific approach for the development of effective and safe therapeutic agents. The antifibrinolytic proteins alpha-2 antiplasmin (α2AP), thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI), complement C3 and plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAI-2), can be incorporated into the fibrin clot by FXIIIa and affect fibrinolysis by different mechanisms. Therefore, these antifibrinolytic proteins are attractive targets for the development of novel therapeutics, both for the modulation of thrombosis risk, but also for potentially improving clot instability in bleeding disorders. This review summarises the main properties of fibrinogen-bound antifibrinolytic proteins, their effect on clot lysis and association with thrombotic or bleeding conditions. The role of these proteins in therapeutic strategies targeting the fibrinolytic system for thrombotic diseases or bleeding disorders is also discussed.