bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Digital-Based Self-Learned Educational Intervention about COVID-19 Using Protection Motivation Theory on Non-Health Students’ Knowledge and Self-Protective Behaviors at Saudi Electronic University
Authors: Sayed Samiha Hamdi , Al-Mohaithef Mohammed , Elgzar Wafaa Taha
Published: November 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has disastrous impacts that impose the cultivation of knowledge and motivation of self-protection to foster disease containment. Aim: Evaluate the effect of digital self-learned educational intervention about COVID-19 using the protection motivation theory (PMT) on non-health students’ knowledge and self-protective behaviors at Saudi Electronic University (SEU). Methods: A quasi-experimental study was accomplished at three randomly chosen branches of SEU (Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah) using a multistage sampling technique to conveniently select 219 students. An electronic self-administered questionnaire was used, which included three scales for assessing the students’ knowledge, self-protective behaviors, and the constructs of the PMT. The educational intervention was designed using four stages: need assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. A peer-reviewed digital educational content was developed after assessing the participants’ educational needs using the pretest. Then, distributed through their university emails. A weekly synchronous Zoom cloud meeting and daily key health messages were shared with them. Finally, the post-test was conducted after two months. Results: The mean participants’ age (SD) among the experimental group was 28.94 (6.719), and the control group was 27.80 (7.256), with a high female percentage (63.4%, 73.8%) and a previous history of direct contact with verified COVID-19 patients (78.6%, 69.2%), respectively. A significant positive mean change (p = 0.000) was detected in the total COVID-19 knowledge of the experimental group post-intervention, either when it was adjusted for the covariates effect of the control group (F1 = 630.547) or the pretest (F1 = 8.585) with a large effect size (η2 = 0.745, η2 = 0.268, respectively). The same was proved by the ANCOVA test for the total self-protective behaviors either when it adjusted for the covariates effect of the control group (F1 = 66.671, p = 0.000) or the pretest (F1 = 5.873, p = 0.020) with a large effect size (η2 = 0.236, η2 = 0.164, respectively). The ANCOVA test proved that post-intervention, all the PMT constructs (perceived threats, reward appraisal, efficacy appraisal, response cost, and protection intention) and the total PMT score were significantly improved (p = 0.000) among the experimental group either when adjusted for the covariates effect of the control group (F1 = 83.835) or the pretest (F1 = 11.658) with a large effect size (η2 = 0.280, η2 = 0.561, respectively). Conclusions: The digital PMT-based self-learned educational intervention effectively boosts non-health university students’ COVID-19 knowledge, protection motivation, and self-protective behaviors. Thus, PMT is highly praised as a basis for COVID-19-related educational intervention and, on similar occasions, future outbreaks.
Linking Passion for Work and Emotional Exhaustion in Indonesian Firefighters: The Role of Work–Family Conflict
Authors: Sulistiawan Jovi , Moslehpour Massoud , Lin Pei-Kuan
Published: November 2022

This study employs a theoretical and comprehensive framework for investigating the relationship between passion for work, work–family conflict, and emotional exhaustion. Drawing from the dualistic model of passion, we posited that passion could provoke negative feelings, leading to strict determination and inhibiting the attainment of an effective, balanced life. However, there is little empirical evidence to support the dualistic model of passion’s notion that passion either can assist employees in balancing their various life responsibilities or impede such a balance. The purposes of this study are threefold: first, to investigate the impact of passion for work on work–family conflict; second, to examine the relationship between work–family conflict and emotional exhaustion; and third, to clarify the mediating process of work–family conflict in the relationship between passion for work and emotional exhaustion. A cross-sectional survey was employed to gather data from Indonesian firefighters (n = 398). PLS-SEM was utilized to test the proposed hypotheses. Our results revealed that obsessive passion negatively affects emotional exhaustion. The underlying reason for this result is due to self-conceptions based on community expectations, receiving help from others to solve problems, and improving well-being even when problems arise. Our results suggest that organizations encourage employees’ harmonious development, providing employees with skills necessary to deal with challenging situations and providing a family-supportive policy.
Concerns about Household Violence during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Blair Dawn-Li , Shields Margot , Tonmyr Lil
Published: November 2022

Evidence about how the pandemic affected household violence in Canada is mixed, but inarguably, the risk factors increased. This study used data from the 2020 Canadian Perspective Survey Series and the 2020 and 2021 Surveys of COVID-19 and Mental Health to examine the following: changes in the prevalence of concern about violence in individuals’ own homes during the pandemic; the characteristics of those who expressed concern; and the prevalence of concerns for specific household members. Among Canadians, the prevalence of concern about violence in individuals’ own homes decreased significantly between July and Fall 2020 (5.8% to 4.2%). Among women, the characteristics that were significantly associated with higher adjusted odds of concern about household violence included larger household size and lower household income. Lower education among women was associated with lower adjusted odds of concern. The associations with higher adjusted odds of concern among men included: being an immigrant, larger household size, and lower household income. From Fall 2020 to Spring 2021, the prevalence of concerns for oneself and for a child/children increased (1.7% to 2.5% and 1.0% to 2.5%, respectively), but concern for other adults in the household decreased (1.9% to 1.2%). Ongoing surveillance is needed to understand vulnerable populations’ exposure to household violence and to inform policies and programs.
Pollution Characteristics and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Agricultural Soils over the Past Five Years in Zhejiang, Southeast China
Authors: Xiang Jie , Xu Peiwei , Chen Weizhong , Wang Xiaofeng , Chen Zhijian , Xu Dandan , Chen Yuan , Xing Mingluan , Cheng Ping , Wu Lizhi , Zhu Bing
Published: November 2022

Heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils has attracted increasing attention in recent years. In this study, 1999 agricultural soil samples were collected from 11 cities in Zhejiang Province from 2016 to 2020, and the spatial and temporal variation characteristics of 3 of the most important heavy metals, i.e., lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr) were analyzed. The results showed that Cd had a slightly higher sample over-standard rate of 12.06%. Spatial distribution and temporal trends showed that the Pb concentrations overall increased from 2016 to 2020 and mainly accumulated in southern Zhejiang. In addition, multiple exposure routes were evaluated for human health risks. Children are more susceptible to the adverse effects of heavy metals in agricultural soils, and oral ingestion was the major exposure route. Cr poses higher human health risks to humans than Pb and Cd in agricultural soils. Therefore, more rigid environmental monitoring and related soil remediation counter-measures for some sites with high concentrations of heavy metals are necessary to limit the potential threat to human health.
Emergency First Responders and Professional Wellbeing: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Bevan Malcolm P. , Priest Sally J. , Plume Ruth C. , Wilson Emma E.
Published: November 2022

Emergency first responders (EFRs) such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics and logistics personnel often suffer high turnover due to work-related stress, high workloads, fatigue, and declining professional wellbeing. As attempts to counter this through resilience programmes tend to have limited success, there is a need for further research into how organisational policies could change to improve EFRs’ professional wellbeing. Aim: To identify the factors that may contribute to or affect EFRs’ professional wellbeing. Methods: A systematic literature review has been carried out. Three databases (Science Direct, ProQuest, and PubMed) were searched using keywords developed based on the PICo (population, interest, and context) framework. A total of 984 articles were extracted. These were then critically appraised for the quality of the evidence presented, leading to a total of five being ultimately included for review. Results: Thematic analysis revealed that although EFRs may be exposed daily to traumatic events, factors that contribute to a decline in professional wellbeing emerge from within the organisational environment, rather than from the event itself. Conclusion: The study concludes that organisational and team relations factors significantly impact EFRs ability to cope with stress. As such, organisational policy should evolve to emphasise team relations over resilience programmes.
Implementation Determinants of Knowledge Mobilization within a Quebec Municipality to Improve Universal Accessibility
Authors: Corcuff Maëlle , Routhier François , Gamache Stéphanie , Fiset David , Leblond Jean , Lamontagne Marie-Eve
Published: November 2022

According to the UN-CRPD, cities must develop action plans about universal accessibility (UA). Operationalization of these plans is complex, and little is known about what municipal employees know about UA. Aim: The aim is to document implementation determinants of UA within a municipal organization in Quebec, Canada. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was performed. Employees answered a survey based on the TDF and the DIBQ. Facilitators, barriers, and factors influencing the determinants were identified. Results: A total of 43% of the employees completed the survey. The implementation of UA measures is more facilitated by their beliefs about the impact on citizens, while the external context hinders the proper implementation. It is also influenced by six factors: (1) professional role, (2) capacity, (3) resources, (4) willingness, (5) characteristics, and (6) feedback. Discussion: Results suggest that understanding the consequences, sufficient resources, abilities, and willingness can influence implementation of UA. Conclusion: These findings have informed the objectives of the next action plan of the municipal organization and could guide the development of solutions.
Spatial Distribution, Ecological Risk Assessment and Source Analysis of Heavy Metals Pollution in Urban Lake Sediments of Huaihe River Basin
Authors: Wu Dun , Liu Hai , Wu Jian , Gao Xia
Published: November 2022

Heavy metals in freshwater lake sediments often exist in various chemical forms. However, the investigation and evaluation of heavy-metal elements in the sediments of the study area have not been reported, and there is a lack of objective understanding of the concentration level of heavy-metal elements. Therefore, this study is the first to report the concentrations, sources, and potential ecological risks of heavy metals in the sediments of Chengdong Lake and Chengxi Lake in Huoqiu County, Anhui Province, China. The spatial distribution, pollution characteristics, potential pollution sources, and ecological risks of heavy metals in the sediments of Chengxi Lake and Chengdong Lake of Huoqiu City in the middle section of Huaihe River in Anhui Province, China have not been reported. In this study, the sediment samples of the two Lakes were collected systematically, and the concentrations of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) were determined. The potential sources of heavy-metal elements in sediments were quantitatively analyzed according to the principal component analysis–absolute principal component fraction–multiple linear regression (PCA–APCS–MLR) receptor model. Descriptive statistics data showed that the enrichment degree of heavy metals in Chengxi Lake was higher than that in Chengdong Lake. The geo-accumulation index (Igeo) and pollution load index (PLI) indicated that there was moderate pollution for Cu, As, Hg, Ni, and Zn. The calculation results of the potential ecological risk index (Er) of the two lakes indicated that Cd (Er,max = 92.22, n = 60) and Hg (Er,max = 64.39, n = 60) showed a certain potential ecological risk in a small amount of sediment, while other heavy metals were classified as low risk. The mean sediment quality guideline quotient indicated that there was a moderate degree of potential adverse biological toxicity in lake sediments. Spatially, the seriously polluted contamination zones were the central position of Chengxi Lake and the northeast end of Chengdong Lake. The PCA–APCS–MLR receptor model revealed that Cr, Ni, Cu, and Zn were mainly from natural sources while Cd, As, Hg, and Pb elements were mainly from industrial sources and pesticide sources.
The Spread of and Death from Infectious Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for FDI Attraction
Authors: Ajide Kazeem Bello , Zhang Qianxiao , Ibrahim Ridwan Lanre , Shah Syed Ale Raza
Published: November 2022

Are “economic bads” of infectious diseases and “economic goods” of foreign direct investment antagonistic to each other? This is the salient question that this research inquiry unravels for 34 African economies from 2000 to 2017. The empirical evidence revealed the following through a generalized method of moments (SGMM) inter alia: First, the mitigating roles of infectious diseases, such as malaria, HIV prevalence rate and AIDS, on global FDI inflows are unconditionally certified from a statistical and economic sense. Second, the diminishing influences of other confounders, such as low per capita GDP, shallow financial development, excruciating inflationary trend, and natural resource rents curse, are empirically endorsed, on the one hand, while the persistent nature of FDI and trade openness as boosting mechanisms for FDI are unambiguously applauded, on the other hand. Finally, a reduction in the numerical strength of the estimates after accounting for the outliers’ effect from the models and the inclusion of additional controls do not diminish the robustness of already established findings, except for the HIV prevalence rate. On the policy front, if the foreign direct investment is truly pro-development outcomes, any policy interventions that eliminate infectious diseases will be Pareto-improving.
Quantitative Study on Human Error in Emergency Activities of Road Transportation Leakage Accidents of Hazardous Chemicals
Authors: Jiang Wei , Huang Zhishun , Wu Zonghao , Su Huiyuan , Zhou Xiangping
Published: November 2022

The emergency rescue process of road transportation leakage accidents involving hazardous chemicals is complex and includes various emergency activities. A quantitative study of human errors in emergency activities is conducive to seeking the focus of the emergency rescue process. To quantitatively analyze human error in emergency activities during the emergency rescue process of road transportation leakage accidents of hazardous chemicals, sequentially timed events plotting (STEP) and the cognitive reliability and error analysis method (CREAM), were used. First, STEP was used to analyze six laws, regulations and standards, as well as 54 accident cases, to derive 24 emergency activities in the emergency rescue process. Then, CREAM was used to analyze and obtain the probability of human error for each emergency activity. Two high error level emergency activities, five medium error level emergency activities, and seventeen low error level emergency activities were identified after the human error levels of the emergency activities were classified. The results show that two emergency activities, the initial handling of the accident, and cleanup of the leakage site, should be prioritized in the emergency rescue process of road transportation leakage accidents of hazardous chemicals.
Modelling Bottlenecks of Bike-Sharing Travel Using the Distinction between Endogenous and Exogenous Demand: A Case Study in Beijing
Authors: Chao Sun , Jian Lu
Published: November 2022

This paper aims to investigate the internal mechanisms of bottlenecks in bike-sharing travel. We perform kernel density analysis to obtain analysis points and areas designated by buffer areas. Additionally, we improve the spatial lag model through Tobit regression, so as to avoid the interference of autocorrelation and to set reasonable constraints for dependent variables. The proposed model distinguishes between bike-sharing demand determined by land use and other built environmental factors, which helps to define and identify bottlenecks in bike-sharing travel. Based on a Bayesian network fault tree, we define the diagnosis mode of evidence nodes to calculate the posterior probabilities and to determine the most sensitive factors for bottlenecks. We use Beijing city as the case study. The results show that the most sensitive factors that induce bottlenecks in bike-sharing travel are few subway stations, few bus stops, few bus lines, a low density of bike lanes, and more serious home–work separation. The findings presented here can enhance the generation of bike-sharing trips in response to bike-sharing development and contribute to adjusting the urban structure and reconstructing the green infrastructure layout.
Synergistic Effect of DIBOA and Verbascoside from Acanthus mollis Leaf on Tyrosinase Inhibition
Authors: Matos Patrícia , Paranhos António , Batista Maria Teresa , Figueirinha Artur
Published: November 2022

Overexpression of melanin contributes to darkening of plant and fruit tissues and skin hyperpigmentation, leading to melasma or age spots. Although melanin biosynthesis is complex and involves several steps, a single enzyme known as tyrosinase is key to regulating this process. The melanogenesis pathway is initiated by oxidation of the starting material l-tyrosine (or l-DOPA) to dopaquinone by tyrosinase; the resulting quinone then serves as a substrate for subsequent steps that eventually lead to production of melanin. Medicinal plants are considered a good source of tyrosinase inhibitors. This study investigated the tyrosinase inhibitory activity of A. mollis leaf extracts and their phytochemicals. Significant activity was verified in the ethanol extract –EEt (IC50 = 1.21 µg/mL). Additionally, a kinetic study showed that this tyrosinase inhibition occurs by DIBOA (2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one) and verbascoside contribution through a non-competitive reaction mechanism. A synergistic effect on tyrosinase inhibition was observed in the binary combination of the compounds. In conclusion, both EEt and a mixture of two of its phytochemicals can be effective tyrosinase inhibitors and can be used as a bleaching agent for cosmetic formulations in the future.
Characteristics and Comparative Genomic Analysis of a Novel Virus, VarioGold, the First Bacteriophage of Variovorax
Authors: Decewicz Przemyslaw , Kitowicz Michal , Radlinska Monika
Published: November 2022

Variovorax represents a widespread and ecologically significant genus of soil bacteria. Despite the ecological importance of these bacteria, our knowledge about the viruses infecting Variovorax spp. is quite poor. This study describes the isolation and characterization of the mitomycin-induced phage, named VarioGold. To the best of our knowledge, VarioGold represents the first characterized virus for this genus. Comparative genomic analyses suggested that VarioGold is distinct from currently known bacteriophages at both the nucleotide and protein levels; thus, it could be considered a new virus genus. In addition, another 37 prophages were distinguished in silico within the complete genomic sequences of Variovorax spp. that are available in public databases. The similarity networking analysis highlighted their general high diversity, which, despite clustering with previously described phages, shows their unique genetic load. Therefore, the novelty of Variovorax phages warrants the great enrichment of databases, which could, in turn, improve bioinformatic strategies for finding (pro)phages.
A Comprehensive Analysis of the DUF4228 Gene Family in Gossypium Reveals the Role of GhDUF4228-67 in Salt Tolerance
Authors: Lv Xiaoyan , Wei Fei , Lian Boying , Yin Guo , Sun Mengxi , Chen Pengyun , An Li , Jian Hongliang , Wang Hantao , Fu Xiaokang , Ma Liang , Lu Jianhua , Wang Baoquan , Wei Hengling
Published: November 2022

Soil salinization conditions seriously restrict cotton yield and quality. Related studies have shown that the DUF4228 proteins are pivotal in plant resistance to abiotic stress. However, there has been no systematic identification and analysis of the DUF4228 gene family in cotton and their role in abiotic stress. In this study, a total of 308 DUF4228 genes were identified in four Gossypium species, which were divided into five subfamilies. Gene structure and protein motifs analysis showed that the GhDUF4228 proteins were conserved in each subfamily. In addition, whole genome duplication (WGD) events and allopolyploidization might play an essential role in the expansion of the DUF4228 genes. Besides, many stress-responsive (MYB, MYC) and hormone-responsive (ABA, MeJA) related cis-elements were detected in the promoters of the DUF4228 genes. The qRT-PCR results showed that GhDUF4228 genes might be involved in the response to abiotic stress. VIGS assays and the measurement of relative water content (RWC), Proline content, POD activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content indicated that GhDUF4228-67 might be a positive regulator of cotton response to salt stress. The results in this study systematically characterized the DUF4228s in Gossypium species and will provide helpful information to further research the role of DUF4228s in salt tolerance.
Transcriptomic Studies of Antidepressant Action in Rodent Models of Depression: A First Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ibrahim El Chérif , Gorgievski Victor , Ortiz-Teba Pilar , Belzeaux Raoul , Turecki Gustavo , Sibille Etienne , Charbonnier Guillaume , Tzavara Eleni T.
Published: November 2022

Antidepressants (ADs) are, for now, the best everyday treatment we have for moderate to severe major depressive episodes (MDEs). ADs are among the most prescribed drugs in the Western Hemisphere; however, the trial-and-error prescription strategy and side-effects leave a lot to be desired. More than 60% of patients suffering from major depression fail to respond to the first AD they are prescribed. For those who respond, full response is only observed after several weeks of treatment. In addition, there are no biomarkers that could help with therapeutic decisions; meanwhile, this is already true in cancer and other fields of medicine. For years, many investigators have been working to decipher the underlying mechanisms of AD response. Here, we provide the first systematic review of animal models. We thoroughly searched all the studies involving rodents, profiling transcriptomic alterations consecutive to AD treatment in naïve animals or in animals subjected to stress-induced models of depression. We have been confronted by an important heterogeneity regarding the drugs and the experimental settings. Thus, we perform a meta-analysis of the AD signature of fluoxetine (FLX) in the hippocampus, the most studied target. Among genes and pathways consistently modulated across species, we identify both old players of AD action and novel transcriptional biomarker candidates that warrant further investigation. We discuss the most prominent transcripts (immediate early genes and activity-dependent synaptic plasticity pathways). We also stress the need for systematic studies of AD action in animal models that span across sex, peripheral and central tissues, and pharmacological classes.
Development of Environmentally Friendly Wool Shrink-Proof Finishing Technology Based on L-Cysteine/Protease Treatment Solution System
Authors: Li Bo , Li Jiaying , Shen Yanqin , Wu Hailiang , Sun Yanli , Zhang Pengfei , Yang Meihui
Published: November 2022

The particular scale structure and mechanical properties of wool fiber make its associated fabrics prone to felting, seriously affecting the service life of wool products. Although the existing Chlorine–Hercosett treatment has a remarkable effect, it can lead to environmental pollution. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop an environmentally friendly and effective shrink-proof finishing technology. For this study, L-cysteine was mixed with protease to form a treatment solution system for shrink-proof finishing of wool fibers. The reduction performance of L-cysteine and its effect on wool were compared with those of other reagents, demonstrating that L-cysteine has an obvious reduction and destruction effect on the wool scale layer. Based on this, L-cysteine and protease 16L were mixed in a certain proportion to prepare an L-cysteine/protease treatment solution system (L/PTSS). The shrink-proof finishing of a wool top was carried out by the continuous multiple-padding method, and the processing parameters were optimized using the response surface method. The results indicated that when the concentrations of L-cysteine and protease 16L were 9 g/L and 1 g/L, respectively, the wool was padded five times at 50 °C, and each immersion time was 30 s, the felt ball density of the treated wool reduced from 135.86 kg/m3 to 48.65 kg/m3. The structure and properties of the treated wool were also characterized using SEM, TG, and tensile strength tests, which indicated that the fiber scale structure was stripped evenly. Meanwhile, the treated fibers still retained adequate thermal and mechanical properties, indicating suitable application value. XPS, FT-IR, Raman, UV absorbance, and other test results revealed the reaction mechanism of L/PTSS with the wool fibers. After L-cysteine rapidly reduced the disulfide bonds in wool, protease can hydrolyze peptide chains more effectively, causing the scale layer to gradually peel off. Compared with the chlorination method and other protease shrink-proof technologies, L/PTSS can achieve the finishing effect on wool rapidly and effectively, without causing excessive pollution to the environment. The conclusions of this study provide a foundation for the development and industrial application of biological enzyme shrink-proof finishing technology.
Improved Power Conversion Efficiency with Tunable Electronic Structures of the Cation-Engineered [Ai]PbI3 Perovskites for Solar Cells: First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Al-Shami Ahmed , Sibari Anass , El Kenz Abdallah , Benyoussef Abdelilah , El Moutaouakil Amine , Mounkachi Omar
Published: November 2022

Higher power conversion efficiencies for photovoltaic devices can be achieved through simple and low production cost processing of APbI3(A=CH3NH3,CHN2H4,…) perovskites. Due to their limited long-term stability, however, there is an urgent need to find alternative structural combinations for this family of materials. In this study, we propose to investigate the prospects of cation-substitution within the A-site of the APbI3 perovskite by selecting nine substituting organic and inorganic cations to enhance the stability of the material. The tolerance and the octahedral factors are calculated and reported as two of the most critical geometrical features, in order to assess which perovskite compounds can be experimentally designed. Our results showed an improvement in the thermal stability of the organic cation substitutions in contrast to the inorganic cations, with an increase in the power conversion efficiency of the Hydroxyl-ammonium (NH3OH) substitute to η = 25.84%.
Unleashing Intrinsic Growth Pathways in Regenerating Peripheral Neurons
Authors: Poitras Trevor , Zochodne Douglas W.
Published: November 2022

Common mechanisms of peripheral axon regeneration are recruited following diverse forms of damage to peripheral nerve axons. Whether the injury is traumatic or disease related neuropathy, reconnection of axons to their targets is required to restore function. Supporting peripheral axon regrowth, while not yet available in clinics, might be accomplished from several directions focusing on one or more of the complex stages of regrowth. Direct axon support, with follow on participation of supporting Schwann cells is one approach, emphasized in this review. However alternative approaches might include direct support of Schwann cells that instruct axons to regrow, manipulation of the inflammatory milieu to prevent ongoing bystander axon damage, or use of inflammatory cytokines as growth factors. Axons may be supported by a growing list of growth factors, extending well beyond the classical neurotrophin family. The understanding of growth factor roles continues to expand but their impact experimentally and in humans has faced serious limitations. The downstream signaling pathways that impact neuron growth have been exploited less frequently in regeneration models and rarely in human work, despite their promise and potency. Here we review the major regenerative signaling cascades that are known to influence adult peripheral axon regeneration. Within these pathways there are major checkpoints or roadblocks that normally check unwanted growth, but are an impediment to robust growth after injury. Several molecular roadblocks, overlapping with tumour suppressor systems in oncology, operate at the level of the perikarya. They have impacts on overall neuron plasticity and growth. A second approach targets proteins that largely operate at growth cones. Addressing both sites might offer synergistic benefits to regrowing neurons. This review emphasizes intrinsic aspects of adult peripheral axon regeneration, emphasizing several molecular barriers to regrowth that have been studied in our laboratory.
Gut Microbiota Mediates Skin Ulceration Syndrome Outbreak by Readjusting Lipid Metabolism in Apostichopus japonicus
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Song Mingshan , Lv Zhimeng , Guo Ming , Li Chenghua
Published: November 2022

The intestinal tract is the most important location for symbiotes and pathogens, and the microbiota plays a crucial role in affecting the health of the gut and other host organs. Dysbacteriosis in the intestinal system has been proven to be significant in skin ulceration syndrome (SUS) in sea cucumbers. This study investigates whether the gut microbiota and lipid metabolites are relevant to the initiation and progression of SUS in a Vibrio-splendidus-infected sea cucumber model. The tight junction genes were downregulated and the inflammatory factor gene transcriptions were upregulated after V. splendidus infection in the intestinal tissue of the sea cucumber. V. splendidus infection modulated the gut microbiota by interacting with Psychromonas macrocephali, Propionigenium maris, Bacillus cereus, Lutibacter flavus, and Hoeflea halophila. Meanwhile, the metabolites of the long-chain fatty acids in the intestinal tissue, including triglycerides (TG), phosphatidylethanolamines (PE), and phosphatidylglycerols (PG), were altered after V. splendidus infection. V. splendidus engaged in positive interactions with PG and PE and negative interactions with specific TG. These results related to gut microbiota and metabolites can offer practical assistance in the identification of the inflammatory mechanisms related to SUS, and this study may serve as a reference for predicting the disease.
The Polyvalent Role of NF90 in RNA Biology
Authors: Grasso Giuseppa , Kiernan Rosemary
Published: November 2022

Double-stranded RNA-binding proteins (dsRBPs) are major players in the regulation of gene expression patterns. Among them, Nuclear Factor 90 (NF90) has a plethora of well-known functions in viral infection, transcription, and translation as well as RNA stability and degradation. In addition, NF90 has been identified as a regulator of microRNA (miRNA) maturation by competing with Microprocessor for the binding of pri-miRNAs in the nucleus. NF90 was recently shown to control the biogenesis of a subset of human miRNAs, which ultimately influences, not only the abundance, but also the expression of the host gene and the fate of the mRNA target repertoire. Moreover, recent evidence suggests that NF90 is also involved in RNA-Induced Silencing Complex (RISC)-mediated silencing by binding to target mRNAs and controlling their translation and degradation. Here, we review the many, and growing, functions of NF90 in RNA biology, with a focus on the miRNA pathway and RISC-mediated gene silencing.
Genome-Wide Identification of AP2/ERF Transcription Factor Family and Functional Analysis of DcAP2/ERF#96 Associated with Abiotic Stress in Dendrobium catenatum
Authors: Han Yuliang , Cai Maohong , Zhang Siqi , Chai Jiawen , Sun Mingzhe , Wang Yingwei , Xie Qinyu , Chen Youheng , Wang Huizhong , Chen Tao
Published: November 2022

APETALA2/Ethylene Responsive Factor (AP2/ERF) family plays important roles in reproductive development, stress responses and hormone responses in plants. However, AP2/ERF family has not been systematically studied in Dendrobium catenatum. In this study, 120 AP2/ERF family members were identified for the first time in D. catenatum, which were divided into four groups (AP2, RAV, ERF and DREB subfamily) according to phylogenetic analysis. Gene structures and conserved motif analysis showed that each DcAP2/ERF family gene contained at least one AP2 domain, and the distribution of motifs varied among subfamilies. Cis-element analysis indicated that DcAP2/ERF genes contained abundant cis-elements related to hormone signaling and stress response. To further identify potential genes involved in drought stress, 12 genes were selected to detect their expression under drought treatment through qRT-PCR analysis and DcAP2/ERF#96, a nuclear localized ethylene-responsive transcription factor, showed a strong response to PEG treatment. Overexpression of DcAP2/ERF#96 in Arabidopsis showed sensitivity to ABA. Molecular, biochemical and genetic assays indicated that DcAP2ERF#96 interacts with DREB2A and directly inhibits the expression of P5CS1 in response to the ABA signal. Taken together, our study provided a molecular basis for the intensive study of DcAP2/ERF genes and revealed the biological function of DcAP2ERF#96 involved in the ABA signal.
Defective Thyroglobulin: Cell Biology of Disease
Authors: Zhang Xiaohan , Young Crystal , Morishita Yoshiaki , Kim Kookjoo , Kabil Omer O. , Clarke Oliver B. , Di Jeso Bruno , Arvan Peter
Published: November 2022

The primary functional units of the thyroid gland are follicles of various sizes comprised of a monolayer of epithelial cells (thyrocytes) surrounding an apical extracellular cavity known as the follicle lumen. In the normal thyroid gland, the follicle lumen is filled with secreted protein (referred to as colloid), comprised nearly exclusively of thyroglobulin with a half-life ranging from days to weeks. At the cellular boundary of the follicle lumen, secreted thyroglobulin becomes iodinated, resulting from the coordinated activities of enzymes localized to the thyrocyte apical plasma membrane. Thyroglobulin appearance in evolution is essentially synchronous with the appearance of the follicular architecture of the vertebrate thyroid gland. Thyroglobulin is the most highly expressed thyroid gene and represents the most abundantly expressed thyroid protein. Wildtype thyroglobulin protein is a large and complex glycoprotein that folds in the endoplasmic reticulum, leading to homodimerization and export via the classical secretory pathway to the follicle lumen. However, of the hundreds of human thyroglobulin genetic variants, most exhibit increased susceptibility to misfolding with defective export from the endoplasmic reticulum, triggering hypothyroidism as well as thyroidal endoplasmic reticulum stress. The human disease of hypothyroidism with defective thyroglobulin (either homozygous, or compound heterozygous) can be experimentally modeled in thyrocyte cell culture, or in whole animals, such as mice that are readily amenable to genetic manipulation. From a combination of approaches, it can be demonstrated that in the setting of thyroglobulin misfolding, thyrocytes under chronic continuous ER stress exhibit increased susceptibility to cell death, with interesting cell biological and pathophysiological consequences.
Interaction of Influenza A Nucleoprotein with Host hnRNP-C Is Implicated in Viral Replication
Authors: Tang Yun-Sang , So Wai-Kin , Ng Ka-Leung Andy , Mok Ka-Pun Chris , Shaw Pang-Chui
Published: November 2022

The host interactome of influenza viral proteins is ever-expanding. In this work, we report the identification of host heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (hnRNP-C) as an interacting partner of influenza A virus nucleoprotein (NP). We confirmed that this interaction exists across different influenza A subtypes and strains. Using biochemical methods, we determined that hnRNP-C interacts with NP via its C-terminal auxiliary domain. Further, we determined that the hnRNP-C is a negative regulator of influenza viral growth. Its interaction with NP is implicated in the promotion of host cell apoptosis during viral infection. It is the first time that the interaction between influenza nucleoprotein and host heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C is characterized in detail. Overall, these findings not only characterize the interaction between NP and its host interacting partner hnRNP-C but also clarify the functional significance of this interaction. This work may lead to a new therapeutic target for the development of anti-influenza drugs.
Loss of the Nuclear Envelope Protein LAP1B Disrupts the Myogenic Differentiation of Patient-Derived Fibroblasts
Authors: Kayman Kürekçi Gülsüm , Acar Aybar C. , Dinçer Pervin R.
Published: November 2022

Lamina-associated polypeptide 1 (LAP1) is a ubiquitously expressed inner nuclear membrane protein encoded by TOR1AIP1, and presents as two isoforms in humans, LAP1B and LAP1C. While loss of both isoforms results in a multisystemic progeroid-like syndrome, specific loss of LAP1B causes muscular dystrophy and cardiomyopathy, suggesting that LAP1B has a critical role in striated muscle. To gain more insight into the molecular pathophysiology underlying muscular dystrophy caused by LAP1B, we established a patient-derived fibroblast line that was transdifferentiated into myogenic cells using inducible MyoD expression. Compared to the controls, we observed strongly reduced myogenic differentiation and fusion potentials. Similar defects were observed in the C2C12 murine myoblasts carrying loss-of-function LAP1A/B mutations. Using RNA sequencing, we found that, despite MyoD overexpression and efficient cell cycle exit, transcriptional reprogramming of the LAP1B-deficient cells into the myogenic lineage is impaired with delayed activation of MYOG and muscle-specific genes. Gene set enrichment analyses suggested dysregulations of protein metabolism, extracellular matrix, and chromosome organization. Finally, we found that the LAP1B-deficient cells exhibit nuclear deformations, such as an increased number of micronuclei and altered morphometric parameters. This study uncovers the phenotypic and transcriptomic changes occurring during myoconversion of patient-derived LAP1B-deficient fibroblasts and provides a useful resource to gain insights into the mechanisms implicated in LAP1B-associated nuclear envelopathies.
Natriuretic Peptides—New Targets for Neurocontrol of Blood Pressure via Baroreflex Afferent Pathway
Authors: Li Xinyu , Cui Yali , Zhang Qing , Li Qingyuan , Cheng Mengxing , Sun Jie , Cui Changpeng , Fan Xiongxiong , Li Baiyan
Published: November 2022

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) induce vasodilation, natriuresis, and diuresis, counteract the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system and autonomic nervous system, and are key regulators of cardiovascular volume and pressure homeostasis. Baroreflex afferent pathway is an important reflex loop in the neuroregulation of blood pressure (BP), including nodose ganglion (NG) and nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS). Dysfunction of baroreflex would lead to various hypertensions. Here, we carried out functional experiments to explore the effects of NPs on baroreflex afferent function. Under physiological and hypertensive condition (high-fructose drinking-induced hypertension, HFD), BP was reduced by NPs through NG microinjection and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) was enhanced via acute intravenous NPs injection. These anti-hypertensive effects were more obvious in female rats with the higher expression of NPs and its receptor A/B (NPRA/NPRB) and lower expression of its receptor C (NPRC). However, these effects were not as obvious as those in HFD rats compared with the same gender control group, which is likely to be explained by the abnormal expression of NPs and NPRs in the hypertensive condition. Our data provide additional evidence showing that NPs play a crucial role in neurocontrol of BP regulation via baroreflex afferent function and may be potential targets for clinical management of metabolic-related hypertension.
Astrocytes as a Therapeutic Target in Alzheimer’s Disease–Comprehensive Review and Recent Developments
Authors: Rodríguez-Giraldo Mateo , González-Reyes Rodrigo E. , Ramírez-Guerrero Sofía , Bonilla-Trilleras Carlos E. , Guardo-Maya Santiago , Nava-Mesa Mauricio O.
Published: November 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a frequent and disabling neurodegenerative disorder, in which astrocytes participate in several pathophysiological processes including neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress and lipid metabolism (along with a critical role in apolipoprotein E function). Current evidence shows that astrocytes have both neuroprotective and neurotoxic effects depending on the disease stage and microenvironmental factors. Furthermore, astrocytes appear to be affected by the presence of amyloid-beta (Aβ), with alterations in calcium levels, gliotransmission and proinflammatory activity via RAGE-NF-κB pathway. In addition, astrocytes play an important role in the metabolism of tau and clearance of Aβ through the glymphatic system. In this review, we will discuss novel pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments focused on astrocytes as therapeutic targets for AD. These interventions include effects on anti-inflammatory/antioxidant systems, glutamate activity, lipid metabolism, neurovascular coupling and glymphatic system, calcium dysregulation, and in the release of peptides which affects glial and neuronal function. According to the AD stage, these therapies may be of benefit in either preventing or delaying the progression of the disease.
Extracellular Vesicle (EVs) Associated Non-Coding RNAs in Lung Cancer and Therapeutics
Authors: Paramanantham Anjugam , Asfiya Rahmat , Das Siddharth , McCully Grace , Srivastava Akhil
Published: November 2022

Lung cancer is one of the most lethal forms of cancer, with a very high mortality rate. The precise pathophysiology of lung cancer is not well understood, and pertinent information regarding the initiation and progression of lung cancer is currently a crucial area of scientific investigation. Enhanced knowledge about the disease will lead to the development of potent therapeutic interventions. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound heterogeneous populations of cellular entities that are abundantly produced by all cells in the human body, including the tumor cells. A defined class of EVs called small Extracellular Vesicles (sEVs or exosomes) carries key biomolecules such as RNA, DNA, Proteins and Lipids. Exosomes, therefore, mediate physiological activities and intracellular communication between various cells, including constituent cells of the tumor microenvironment, namely stromal cells, immunological cells, and tumor cells. In recent years, a surge in studying tumor-associated non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has been observed. Subsequently, studies have also reported that exosomes abundantly carry different species of ncRNAs and these exosomal ncRNAs are functionally involved in cancer initiation and progression. Here, we discuss the function of exosomal ncRNAs, such as miRNAs and long non-coding RNAs, in the pathophysiology of lung tumors. Further, the future application of exosomal-ncRNAs in clinics as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in lung cancer is also discussed due to the multifaceted influence of exosomes on cellular physiology.
Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaque: Is There a Molecular Signature?
Authors: Chiorescu Roxana Mihaela , Mocan Mihaela , Inceu Andreea Ioana , Buda Andreea Paula , Blendea Dan , Vlaicu Sonia Irina
Published: November 2022

Atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations, coronary and cerebral artery diseases, are the most common cause of death worldwide. The main pathophysiological mechanism for these complications is the rupture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques and subsequent thrombosis. Pathological studies of the vulnerable lesions showed that more frequently, plaques rich in lipids and with a high level of inflammation, responsible for mild or moderate stenosis, are more prone to rupture, leading to acute events. Identifying the vulnerable plaques helps to stratify patients at risk of developing acute vascular events. Traditional imaging methods based on plaque appearance and size are not reliable in prediction the risk of rupture. Intravascular imaging is a novel technique able to identify vulnerable lesions, but it is invasive and an operator-dependent technique. This review aims to summarize the current data from literature regarding the main biomarkers involved in the attempt to diagnose vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions. These biomarkers could be the base for risk stratification and development of the new therapeutic drugs in the treatment of patients with vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques.
Non-Muscle MLCK Contributes to Endothelial Cell Hyper-Proliferation through the ERK Pathway as a Mechanism for Vascular Remodeling in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Anis Mariam , Gonzales Janae , Halstrom Rachel , Baig Noman , Humpal Cat , Demeritte Regaina , Epshtein Yulia , Jacobson Jeffrey R. , Fraidenburg Dustin R.
Published: November 2022

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by endothelial dysfunction, uncontrolled proliferation and migration of pulmonary arterial endothelial cells leading to increased pulmonary vascular resistance resulting in great morbidity and poor survival. Bone morphogenetic protein receptor II (BMPR2) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PAH as the most common genetic mutation. Non-muscle myosin light chain kinase (nmMLCK) is an essential component of the cellular cytoskeleton and recent studies have shown that increased nmMLCK activity regulates biological processes in various pulmonary diseases such as asthma and acute lung injury. In this study, we aimed to discover the role of nmMLCK in the proliferation and migration of pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (HPAECs) in the pathogenesis of PAH. We used two cellular models relevant to the pathobiology of PAH including BMPR2 silenced and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulated HPAECs. Both models demonstrated an increase in nmMLCK activity along with a robust increase in cellular proliferation, inflammation, and cellular migration. The upregulated nmMLCK activity was also associated with increased ERK expression pointing towards a potential integral cytoplasmic interaction. Mechanistically, we confirmed that when nmMLCK is inhibited by MLCK selective inhibitor (ML-7), proliferation and migration are attenuated. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that nmMLCK upregulation in association with increased ERK expression may contribute to the pathogenesis of PAHby stimulating cellular proliferation and migration.