bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Etanercept on Plasmodium yoelii MDR-Induced Liver Lipid Infiltration
Authors: Chauhan Bhavana Singh , Gunjan Sarika , Singh Sunil Kumar , Pandey Swaroop Kumar , Tripathi Renu
Published: November 2022

The lipid is a vital metabolic and structural component of the malaria parasite. Malaria parasite-induced liver lipid deposits undergo peroxidation, which ultimately causes tissue damage and histopathological changes, which further lead to many complications. Therefore, it is essential to focus on the factors responsible for this stimulated lipid accumulation during malaria infection. In the present study, we have correlated the significant increase in serum TNF-α and liver triglyceride during Plasmodium yoelii MDR infection in mice. In order to explore the role of TNF-α in inducing lipid accumulation in the liver during malaria infection, we have used a competitive TNF-α inhibitor Etanercept, for the treatment of Plasmodium yoelii MDR (Py MDR) infected mice and found that Etanercept displayed up to a three-fold inhibition of the liver triglyceride level in Py MDR infected mice. These results were also confirmed by triglyceride specific oil red O staining of liver sections. In addition, all the treatment groups also showed inhibition in the level of serum TNF-α and the liver malondialdehyde (MDA), a byproduct of lipid peroxidation. Our study thus concludes that Etanercept significantly reduces Plasmodium-induced liver triglyceride and further saves the host liver from malaria-induced lipid infiltration and liver damage. Therefore, treatment with Etanercept, along with a standard antimalarial, may prove a better therapy for the disease.
Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production Using Porous 3D Graphene-Based Aerogels Supporting Pt/TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Kubovics Márta , Silva Cláudia G. , López-Periago Ana M. , Faria Joaquim L. , Domingo Concepción
Published: November 2022

Composites involving reduced graphene oxide (rGO) aerogels supporting Pt/TiO2 nanoparticles were fabricated using a one-pot supercritical CO2 gelling and drying method, followed by mild reduction under a N2 atmosphere. Electron microscopy images and N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms indicate the formation of 3D monolithic aerogels with a meso/macroporous morphology. A comprehensive evaluation of the synthesized photocatalyst was carried out with a focus on the target application: the photocatalytic production of H2 from methanol in aqueous media. The reaction conditions (water/methanol ratio, catalyst concentration), together with the aerogel composition (Pt/TiO2/rGO ratio) and architecture (size of the aerogel pieces), were the factors that varied in optimizing the process. These experimental parameters influenced the diffusion of the reactants/products inside the aerogel, the permeability of the porous structure, and the light-harvesting properties, all determined in this study towards maximizing H2 production. Using methanol as the sacrificial agent, the measured H2 production rate for the optimized system (18,800 µmolH2h−1gNPs−1) was remarkably higher than the values found in the literature for similar Pt/TiO2/rGO catalysts and reaction media (2000–10,000 µmolH2h−1gNPs−1).
The Presence of Hyperreflective Foci Reflects Vascular, Morphologic and Metabolic Alterations in Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Diem Clemens , Türksever Cengiz , Todorova Margarita
Published: November 2022

Background: The presence of hyperreflective foci (HRF) in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a potentially new finding. We investigated the presence of HRF in SD-OCT images in eyes with RP and its relation to vascular, morphologic and metabolic findings in RP. Methods: The study was performed on 42 RP patients and 24 controls. Using SD-OCT, we calculated the amount of HRF within the entire retina (HRF-ER) and the outer nuclear layer (HRF-ONL). Retinal vessel diameters (μm) and oxygen saturation (%) values were measured using Oxymap T1. We evaluated the mean diameter in retinal arterioles (D-A) and venules (D-V), the corresponding oxygen saturation values (A-SO2, V-SO2) and the oxygen saturation difference (A-V SO2). Results: RP differed from controls by HRF-ER, HRF-ON and EZ-length (p < 0.001). D-A and D-V were narrower and A-SO2 and V-SO2 were higher in RP (p ≤ 0.001). Within RP, significant interactions were found between the HRF-ER* group and: BCVA, EZ length, D-A, A-SO2 and A-V SO2 (p ≤ 0.018). The HRF-ONL* group interactions were significant for: BCVA, EZ length, D-A, A-SO2 and A-V SO2 (p ≤ 0.014). Conclusion: The present study highlights the presence of HRF to reflect the vascular, morphologic and metabolic alterations in RP. These biomarkers seem to be associated with remodeling and apoptosis that occur with the progression of degeneration.
Risk Allele Frequency Analysis and Risk Prediction of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Yoon Byung Woo , Shin Hyun-Tae , Seo Je Hyun
Published: November 2022

The incidence of prostate cancer (PCa) varies by ethnicity. This study aimed to provide insights into the genetic cause of PCa, which can result in differences in incidence among individuals of diverse ancestry. We collected data on PCa-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from a genome-wide association study catalog. Fisher’s exact tests were used to analyze the significance of enrichment or depletion of the effect on the allele at a given SNP. A network analysis was performed based on PCa-related SNPs that showed significant differences among ethnicities. The SNP-based polygenic risk score (PRS) was calculated, and its correlation with PCa incidence was evaluated. European, African, and East Asian populations had different heatmap patterns. Calculated PRS from the allele frequencies of PCa was the highest among Africans, followed by Europeans, and was the lowest among East Asians. PRS was positively correlated with the incidence and mortality of PCa. Network analysis revealed that AR, CDKN1B, and MAD1L1 are genes related to ethnic differences in PCa. The incidence and mortality of PCa showed a strong correlation with PRS according to ethnicity, which may suggest the effect of genetic factors, such as the AR gene, on PCa pathogenesis.
Genome-Wide Identification, Evolution, and Expression Characterization of the Pepper (Capsicum spp.) MADS-box Gene Family
Authors: Gan Zhicheng , Wu Xingxing , Biahomba Sage Arnaud Missamou , Feng Tingting , Lu Xiaoming , Hu Nengbing , Li Ruining , Huang Xianzhong
Published: November 2022

MADS domain transcription factors play roles throughout the whole lifecycle of plants from seeding to flowering and fruit-bearing. However, systematic research into MADS-box genes of the economically important vegetable crop pepper (Capsicum spp.) is still lacking. We identified 174, 207, and 72 MADS-box genes from the genomes of C. annuum, C. baccatum, and C. chinense, respectively. These 453 MADS-box genes were divided into type I (Mα, Mβ, Mγ) and type II (MIKC* and MIKCC) based on their phylogenetic relationships. Collinearity analysis identified 144 paralogous genes and 195 orthologous genes in the three Capsicum species, and 70, 114, and 10 MADS-box genes specific to C. annuum, C. baccatum, and C. chinense, respectively. Comparative genomic analysis highlighted functional differentiation among homologous MADS-box genes during pepper evolution. Tissue expression analysis revealed three main expression patterns: highly expressed in roots, stems, leaves, and flowers (CaMADS93/CbMADS35/CcMADS58); only expressed in roots; and specifically expressed in flowers (CaMADS26/CbMADS31/CcMADS11). Protein interaction network analysis showed that type II CaMADS mainly interacted with proteins related to flowering pathway and flower organ development. This study provides the basis for an in-depth study of the evolutionary features and biological functions of pepper MADS-box genes.
The Potential of MicroRNAs as Clinical Biomarkers to Aid Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Davies Molly , Davey Matthew G. , Miller Nicola
Published: November 2022

Ovarian cancer is a commonly diagnosed malignancy in women. When diagnosed at an early stage, survival outcomes are favourable for the vast majority, with up to 90% of ovarian cancer patients being free of disease at 5 years follow-up. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage due to the majority of patients remaining asymptomatic until the cancer has metastasised, resulting in poor outcomes for the majority. While the molecular era has facilitated the subclassification of the disease into distinct clinical subtypes, ovarian cancer remains managed and treated as a single disease entity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small (19–25 nucleotides), endogenous molecules which are integral to regulating gene expression. Aberrant miRNA expression profiles have been described in several cancers, and have been implicated to be useful biomarkers which may aid cancer diagnostics and treatment. Several preliminary studies have identified candidate tumour suppressor and oncogenic miRNAs which may be involved in the development and progression of ovarian cancer, highlighting their candidacy as oncological biomarkers; understanding the mechanisms by which these miRNAs regulate the key processes involved in oncogenesis can improve our overall understanding of cancer development and identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review highlights the potential role of miRNAs which may be utilised to aid diagnosis, estimate prognosis and enhance therapeutic strategies in the management of primary ovarian cancer.
Role of Fiber Shaft Length in Tumor Targeting with Ad5/3 Vectors
Authors: Richter Maximilian , Wang Hongjie , Lieber André
Published: November 2022

Desmoglein 2 (DSG2) is overexpressed in many epithelial cancers and therefore represents a target receptor for oncolytic viruses, including Ad5/3-based viruses. For most Ad serotypes, the receptor-binding fiber is composed of tail, shaft, and knob domains. Here, we investigated the role of the fiber shaft in Ad5/3 tumor transduction in vitro and in human DSG2-transgenic mice carrying human DSG2high tumors. DSG2tg mice express DSG2 in a pattern similar to humans. We constructed Ad5/3L (with the “long” Ad5 shaft) and Ad5/3S (with the “short” Ad3 shaft) expressing GFP or luciferase. In in vitro studies we found that coagulation factor X, which is known to mediate undesired hepatocyte transduction of Ad5, enhances the transduction of Ad5/3(L), but not the transduction of Ad5/3(S). We therefore hypothesized that Ad5/3(S) would target DSG2high tumors while sparing the liver after intravenous injection. In vivo imaging studies for luciferase and analysis of luciferase activity in isolated organs, showed that Ad5/3(L) vectors efficiently transduced DSG2high tumors and liver but not normal epithelial tissues after intravenous injection. Ad5/3(S) showed minimal liver transduction, however it failed to transduce DSG2high tumors. Further modifications of the Ad5/3(S) capsid are required to compensate for the lower infectivity of Ad5/3(S) vectors.
Identification of circRNAs Associated with Adipogenesis Based on RNA-Seq Data in Pigs
Authors: Li Qiaowei , Wang Liyuan , Xing Kai , Yang Yalan , Abiola Adetula Adeyinka , Liu Yuwen , Yi Guoqiang , Zhang Hongfu , Sweeney Torres , Tang Zhonglin
Published: November 2022

Adipocytes or fat cells play a vital role in the storage and release of energy in pigs, and many circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as important regulators in various tissues and cell types in pigs. However, the spatio-temporal expression pattern of circRNAs between different adipose deposition breeds remains elusive. In this study, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) produced transcriptome profiles of Western Landrace (lean-type) and Chinese Songliao black pigs (obese-type) with different thicknesses of subcutaneous fat tissues and were used to identify circRNAs involved in the regulation of adipogenesis. Gene expression analysis revealed 883 circRNAs, among which 26 and 11 circRNAs were differentially expressed between Landrace vs. Songliao pigs and high- vs. low-thickness groups, respectively. We also analyzed the interaction between circRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) and constructed their interaction network in adipogenesis; gene ontology classification and pathway analysis revealed two vital circRNAs, with the majority of their target genes enriched in biological functions such as fatty acids biosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and Wnt/TGF-β signaling pathways. These candidate circRNAs can be taken as potential targets for further experimental studies. Our results show that circRNAs are dynamically expressed and provide a valuable basis for understanding the molecular mechanism of circRNAs in pig adipose biology.
Frailty and Quality of Life among Older Adults in Communities: The Mediation Effects of Daily Physical Activity and Healthy Life Self-Efficacy
Authors: Lin Chia-Hui , Liu Chieh-Yu , Huang Chun-Ching , Rong Jiin-Ru
Published: November 2022

As the global population ages, frailty, which has been shown to affect and predict the quality of life (QoL) of older adults, has become a central issue. The aim of this study was to explore the mediating effects of daily physical activity (DPA) and healthy life self-efficacy (HLSE) on the relationship between frailty and QoL in older adults using a serial multiple mediation model. The cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. Data were collected using the Taiwanese version of the Tilburg Frailty Indicator, the EuroQoL visual analog scale, the Kihon Checklist, and the Chronic Disease Self-Efficacy Scales. The PROCESS macro for SPSS based on the bootstrap method was used to determine the mediating effects of DPA and HLSE on the relationship between frailty and QoL. The results showed that frailty was found to have both direct and indirect effects on QoL. As predicted, DPA and HLSE partially mediated the relationship between frailty and quality of life (DPA: B = −0.71, p < 0.001; HLSE: B = −0.32, p < 0.001). In addition, serial mediation analyses indicated that the association between frailty and QoL was partially mediated by DPA and HLSE in a sequential manner (B = −0.16, p < 0.001). The serial mediation has a causal chain linking DPA and HLSE, with a specified direction of causal flow. According to the results of the serial multiple mediation model, the elderly should be encouraged to continue their activities in daily life, which not only improves self-efficacy and confidence in maintaining health but also reduces the negative impact of frailty on QoL.
Microbiome–Gut Dissociation in the Neonate: Autism-Related Developmental Brain Disease and the Origin of the Placebo Effect
Authors: Smith David , Jheeta Sohan , Fuentes Hannya V. , Street Bernadette , Palacios-Pérez Miryam
Published: November 2022

While the importance of the intestinal microbiome has been realised for a number of years, the significance of the phrase microbiota–gut–brain axis is only just beginning to be fully appreciated. Our recent work has focused on the microbiome as if it were a single entity, modifying the expression of the genetic inheritance of the individual by the generation of interkingdom signalling molecules, semiochemicals, such as dopamine. In our view, the purpose of the microbiome is to convey information about the microbial environment of the mother so as to calibrate the immune system of the new-born, giving it the ability to distinguish harmful pathogens from the harmless antigens of pollen, for example, or to help distinguish self from non-self. In turn, this requires the partition of nutrition between the adult and its microbiome to ensure that both entities remain viable until the process of reproduction. Accordingly, the failure of a degraded microbiome to interact with the developing gut of the neonate leads to failure of this partition in the adult: to low faecal energy excretion, excessive fat storage, and concomitant problems with the immune system. Similarly, a weakened gut–brain axis distorts interoceptive input to the brain, increasing the risk of psychiatric diseases such as autism. These effects account for David Barker’s 1990 suggestion of “the fetal and infant origins of adult disease”, including schizophrenia, and David Strachan’s 1989 observation of childhood immune system diseases, such as hay fever and asthma. The industrialisation of modern life is increasing the intensity and scale of these physical and psychiatric diseases and it seems likely that subclinical heavy metal poisoning of the microbiome contributes to these problems. Finally, the recent observation of Harald Brüssow, that reported intestinal bacterial composition does not adequately reflect the patterns of disease, would be accounted for if microbial eukaryotes were the key determinant of microbiome effectiveness. In this view, the relative success of “probiotic” bacteria is due to their temporary immune system activation of the gut–brain axis, in turn suggesting a potential mechanism for the placebo effect.
Vascular Risk Factors in Ischemic Stroke Survivors: A Retrospective Study in Catalonia, Spain
Authors: Reverté-Villarroya Silvia , Suñer-Soler Rosa , Zaragoza-Brunet Jose , Martín-Ozaeta Gisela , Esteve-Belloch Patricia , Payo-Froiz Iago , Sauras-Colón Esther , Lopez-Espuela Fidel
Published: November 2022

Background: The distribution of vascular risk factors (VRFs) and stroke management vary by geographic area. Our aim was to examine the percentage of the VRFs according to age and sex in ischemic stroke survivors in a geographical area on the Mediterranean coast of Southern Catalonia, Spain. Methods: This was a multicenter, observational, retrospective, community-based study of a cohort, the data of which we obtained from digital clinical records of the Catalan Institute of Health. The study included all patients with a confirmed diagnosis of ischemic stroke who were treated between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2020. Patients met the following inclusion criteria: residing in the study area, age ≥ 18 years, and presenting ≥1 modifiable vascular risk factor. The exclusion criteria were as follows: death patients (non-survivors) and patients without modifiable VRFs. We collected the demographic, clinical, and VRF variables of the total of 2054 cases included, and we analyzed the data according to age groups, sex, and number of VRFs. Results: Most of the patients included were in the 55–80 age group (n = 1139; 55.45%). Of the patients, 56.48% (n = 1160) presented ≤ 2 modifiable VRFs, and the age group <55 years old (67.01%) presented more VRFs. Hypertension and (>80 years old (38.82%)) and dyslipidemia (<55 years (28.33%)) were the most prevalent VRFs. In the age group 55–80 (69.59% men), the prevalence of VRFs was higher ((3–4 VRF (42.76%) and >4 VRF (5.35%)). Conclusions: These results suggest the presence of many VRFs in people diagnosed with ischemic stroke—although with a lower percentage compared to other studies—and the need for specific individualized interventions for the control of modifiable RFs related to primary and secondary prevention of stroke.
Knowledge and Attitude of First-Aid Treatments for Snakebites, and the Perception of Snakes among the Students of Health Sciences at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alqahtani Saad S. , Banji David , Banji Otilia J. F. , Syed Mamoon H. , Syed Nabeel Kashan , Meraya Abdulkarim M. , Albarraq Ahmed A. , Thaibah Hilal A. , Khardali Amani , Alhomood Ibrahim A. , Mahzari Aeshah M. , Alshlali Omaymah M.
Published: November 2022

First aid is the most basic and life-saving service provided before emergency care is received. This study aimed to assess students’ knowledge and attitudes about performing first aid for snakebite emergencies and their perception of snakes. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2019 among upper-level students (3rd year and above) of health-related courses at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. Three hundred and nine students from four programs responded to the self-administered questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0. The highest percentage of the study sample comprised pharmacy students (44%), followed by nursing (25.2%), medical (16.8%), and emergency medicine students (13.9%). Overall, the emergency medicine students exhibited greater knowledge of snakebite first aid. However, over three-fourths of the students were unaware of dry bites. Around two-thirds were sure that they should not massage the bite site, while nearly one-fourth were not sure about the use of a tourniquet. The fifth- and sixth-year students had extremely diverse perspectives on snakes. The majority of the participants (92.8%) did not feel good about snakes. However, most of the students (95.2%) wanted to learn about snakebite first aid and overcome their fear of snakes. Overall, the students had a positive attitude towards first aid but lacked knowledge of snakebite emergencies. Public health awareness is required to dispel first-aid myths about snakebites and misconceptions regarding snakes.
Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Psychotherapy Utilisation and How They Relate to Patient’s Psychotherapeutic Goals
Authors: Schaffler Yvonne , Probst Thomas , Jesser Andrea , Humer Elke , Pieh Christoph , Stippl Peter , Haid Barbara , Schigl Brigitte
Published: November 2022

Access to psychotherapy is still limited by various barriers, and little is known about the facilitating circumstances. This study aims to assess self-reported barriers and facilitators to psychotherapy utilisation in private practice and how these access factors relate to psychotherapy goals as formulated by patients. The dataset consists of 21 face-to-face semi-structured interviews with patients treated by psychotherapists in private practice in Austria. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis, including a frequency count of the number of codings to analyse relations between categories. A critical external barrier theme was unaffordable psychotherapy and confusion about how the Austrian funding system works. A negative experience with psychotherapy prior to the current one, such as not being understood and answered well enough by one’s therapist, was a frequently reported internal barrier. Individuals who faced more internal barriers and more external facilitators in seeking therapy, such as moral support from significant others and professionals, formulated less elaborate treatment goals. Although the study was carried out amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the pandemic played a minor role in patients’ self-reported barrier and facilitator themes.
Update in Childhood Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Giona Fiorina , Bianchi Simona
Published: November 2022

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in childhood represents only 3% of newly diagnosed pediatric leukemia. The diagnostic hallmark of CML is the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome, which derives from the fusion of the ABL1-oncogene located on chromosome 9 to the breakpoint cluster region (BCR) gene on chromosome 22, resulting in a constitutively dysregulated ABL1 tyrosine kinase, either as 210 kDa or 190 kDa. Depending on the localization of the breakpoint site within the major BCR region, the majority of CML patients exhibit transcripts with either the b3a2 or b2a2 junction, or both. Several questions are still open with regard to childhood CML, especially concerning the biologic and clinical features of the disease, and the treatment of choice for pediatric patients with CML. Moreover, over the last few years, several tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been available for children and adolescents with CML, and current clinical practice investigates what the effective and optimal doses of TKIs are in these two categories of patients. The use of TKIs in pediatric patients with CML has also opened up questions on the following items: (1) the long-term effects of these drugs on children; (2) the management of pediatric CML forms resistant or intolerant to TKIs; (3) the monitoring of disease outcomes during treatment; (4) and the right timing to discontinue therapy. Despite the efficacy of TKIs also in the pediatric population, the potential late adverse effects, and the drug resistance, leave open the possibility of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation as a treatment option in pediatric CML. Published data and personal experiences regarding these issues will be analyzed and discussed.
Quantification and Reduction in Heavy Metal Residues in Some Fruits and Vegetables: A Case Study Galați County, Romania
Authors: Bora Florin Dumitru , Bunea Andrea , Pop Sergiu Rudolf , Baniță Sabin Ioan , Duşa Dorin Ştefan , Chira Alexandra , Bunea Claudiu-Ioan
Published: November 2022

One of the main issues for sustainable global development with high priority is food security. The negative effects of contaminants on crop quality have threatened both food security and human health. Long-term heavy metal exposure from food, drinking water, or other occupational sources causes serious problems, such as kidney failure, hepatotoxicity, and neurotoxicity. This study was conducted to determine the concentrations of three toxic trace elements (As, Cd, Pb) and one microelement (Zn) in fruits and vegetables using ICP-MS, and it also sought to reduce the concentrations of metals by washing with vinegar (5% and 10% acetic acid). The potential of vinegar to influence heavy metal contents may be due to its effect on pH values that influence the solution chemistry of the heavy metals, such as hydrolysis, redox reactions, precipitation, and availability of heavy metals. Sample origin has a significant influence in terms of metal accumulation; values up to 35%, 68%, 67%, and 3% lower were recorded in the case samples originating from amateur farmers (for As, Cd, Pb, and Zn, respectively). Regarding the efficiency of the vinegar, As and Zn recorded levels up to 8% lower for samples washed with 10% vinegar, and Cd showed levels up to 20% lower for samples washed with 10% vinegar, while Pb did not register any differences.
Influence of Varieties and Mulching on the Quality and Quantity of Vegetable Pepper Yield
Authors: Valšíková-Frey Magdaléna , Mlček Jiří , Bučková Martina , Adámková Anna , Adámek Martin , Jurikova Tunde
Published: November 2022

The influence of the cultivation method on green pepper fruits was investigated. Six pepper cultivars were planted using soil covered by brown mulching foil and in uncovered soil. Cultivation was maintained for two years providing the equivalent conditions of cultivation. The ascorbic acid content, total antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol content, soluble solids content and yield were observed and compared to mulching foil application, year of cultivation, pepper variety and order of harvest. The obtained results proved a statistically significant effect of mulching film in all tested varieties; the effects of year of cultivation and plant variety were also confirmed. The mulching film had a positive effect on pepper yield. The highest yield of peppers was grown on mulching foil in the variety ‘Lungy’. The vitamin C content, total antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content and soluble solids content were demonstrably higher in the variant without mulching film. The highest levels of total polyphenol content and total antioxidant capacity were determined in the ‘Yolo wonder’ variety, the darkest colored cultivar. The highest content of vitamin C and soluble solids content were found in the ‘Semaroh’ variety grown without mulching film, however, this variety achieved the lowest yield growing with mulching foil.
Biomass, Phenolic Compounds, Essential Oil Content, and Antioxidant Properties of Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis L.) Grown in Hydroponics as Affected by Treatment Type and Selenium Concentration
Authors: Skrypnik Liubov , Feduraev Pavel , Styran Tatiana , Golovin Anton , Katserov Dmitriy , Nebreeva Sofia , Maslennikov Pavel
Published: November 2022

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis L.) is an aromatic plant that is rich in various biologically active compounds and is widely used as a natural preservative and flavoring agent in the food and cosmetic industry and as a folk medicine against certain respiratory diseases. Despite the fact that selenium is not an essential trace element for plants, in a certain range of concentrations it can not only improve plant growth, but also increase the content of nutrients and biologically active compounds in plants. In the present study, the effect of treatment type (in a nutrient solution (NS) or by foliar application (FA)) and selenium (Se) concentration (2.0, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0, 40.0 μM) on the biomass, phenolic compounds, essential oil content, and antioxidant properties of hyssop grown in hydroponics was studied. Neither a toxic nor a beneficial effect of Se addition on the plants was observed. Selenium treatment significantly increased Se concentration in hyssop up to 38.35 μg g−1 (NS) and 34.86 μg g−1 (FA). The effect of selenium on the content of phenolic compounds, essential oil, and the antioxidant activity of hyssop depended on the applied selenium concentration. Hyssop treated with 10 μM Se (NS) and with 20 μM Se (FA) had a higher total content of hydroxycinnamic acids and higher contents of rosmarinic and chlorogenic acids, as well as a higher total content of phenolic compounds, higher content of essential oil, and higher antioxidant activity compared to other experimental plants. The results confirm the feasibility of selenium treatment of hyssop without reducing its production in order to enhance its nutritional and pharmaceutical properties.
Contribution of Surrounding Flowering Plants to Reduce Abundance of Aphis nerii (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on Oleanders (Nerium oleander L.)
Authors: Madeira Filipe , Lumbierres Belén , Pons Xavier
Published: November 2022

Oleander is very frequently planted as an ornamental shrub in urban areas of the Mediterranean. Its most common pest is the aphid Aphis nerii, and heavy infestations produce aesthetic damage and disturbances to the citizens, and they are frequently sprayed with insecticides in order to reduce the population density. One alternative method is conservation biological control which is enhanced by the provisioning of alternative food, refuges, and reproduction sites. In this study, the usefulness of four flowering service plants (Lobularia maritima, Calendula officinalis, Coreopsis grandiflora, and Achillea millefolium) is evaluated for aphid infestation levels and aphid natural enemy abundances. Aphid levels were consistently lower in oleander plots surrounded by service plants. Natural enemy abundances tended to be higher in plots surrounded by service plants, but significant differences could not be found until the fourth year of the study, when more lacewings, total predators, and mummies were higher in plots surrounded by service plants. On these plots, hoverflies, ladybeetles, and lacewings were the most common predators. Paragus sp. and Hippodamia variegata were the prevalent hoverfly and ladybeetle species, respectively. The potential toxicity effect on the prevalence of natural enemy species is discussed. On service plants, significantly more hoverflies were recorded on L. maritima than on C. officinalis and C. grandiflora, and more true bugs were recorded on C. officinalis and A. millefolium than on L. maritima or C. grandiflora. Our results suggest that planting service plants (such as sweet alyssum, marigold, or yarrow) surrounding oleanders can improve conservation biological control by enhancing the abundance of aphid natural enemies and thus a reduction of the abundance of A. nerii.
The Yield, Chemical Composition, and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oils from Different Plant Parts of the Wild and Cultivated Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.)
Authors: Ilić Zoran , Stanojević Ljiljana , Milenković Lidija , Šunić Ljubomir , Milenković Aleksandra , Stanojević Jelena , Cvetković Dragan
Published: November 2022

The present study focuses on the yield, chemical composition, and antioxidant activity of essential oils from different parts (flowers or leaves/stems) of cultivated plants grown under pearl shade nets with a 40% shaded index or in nonshaded plants and wild-grown oregano. The chemical composition of isolated essential oils was determined by GC/MS and GC/FID. Antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH assay. The highest yield of oregano essential oils (OEOs) was obtained in cultivated shaded plants (flowers) at 0.35 mL/100 g p.m., in contrast to nonshaded plants (flowers), where the yield of OEOs was low (0.21 mL/100 g p.m.). Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the OEOs identified 16–52 constituents that varied with origin and plant organs. The oxygenated sesquiterpene caryophylleneoxide (7.4–49.9%) was predominant in all the essential oil samples. Other major constituents were sesquiterpene hydrocarbon-germacrene D (8.4–22.5%) and (E)-caryophyllene (8.5–10.8%), monoterpene hydrocarbon-sabinene (1.6–7.7%), and oxygen-containing monoterpenes-terpinen-4-ol (1.5–7.0%). The plant part has a significant effect on the antioxidant activity of OEOs, while the influenceof modified light under the shade nets is significantly lower. The OEOs from wild flowers showed the highest antioxidant activity, with an EC50 value of 4.78 mg/mL. OEOs from cultivated nonshaded plants (flowers) recorded the lowest antioxidant activity with an EC50 value of 24.63 mg/mL. The results suggest that the yield and quality of OEOs can be scaled-up by optimizing plant production in comparison with wild-growing plants. The content and quality of OEO can be increased by optimizing its production compared to plants from the spontaneous flora. Adequate cultivation techniques, such as shading, can achieve high-quality oregano yields and better quality parameters in terms of specific OEO components and meet the different requirements of the market and industrial sectors.
Improvement of Postharvest Quality and Bioactive Compounds Content of Persimmon Fruits after Hydrocolloid-Based Edible Coating Application
Authors: Saleem Muhammad Shahzad , Ejaz Shaghef , Anjum Muhammad Akbar , Ali Sajid , Hussain Sajjad , Ercisli Sezai , Ilhan Gulce , Marc Romina Alina , Skrovankova Sona , Mlcek Jiri
Published: November 2022

Persimmon fruits are often affected by large postharvest losses due to rapid ripening and the early onset of senescence. To reduce such losses in fresh fruits, the application of hydrocolloid-based edible coatings was conducted. Therefore, a plant hydrocolloid-based gum, tragacanth gum (TCG), was applied to persimmon fruits at 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% TCG concentrations, and stored at 20 ± 2 °C and 80–85% relative humidity for 20 days (analysis at 0, 4th, 8th, 12th, 16th, and 20th day). As a result of TCG application on persimmon fruits, there were greatly suppressed respiration rates, ethylene production, weight loss, decay incidence, and H2O2 and malondialdehyde content. In addition, TCG-coated persimmon fruits had higher concentrations of bioactive compounds including phenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, and soluble tannin. Higher enzymatic antioxidant activities and lower softening enzyme activities were also recorded for TCG-coated persimmon fruits. Uncoated persimmon fruits quickly lost fruit quality attributes like color, firmness, taste, and aroma during storage compared to coated ones. Based on our findings, the use of TCG, especially at the concentration of 1% TCG, can be recommended to be applied as the edible coating to maintain the nutritional, biochemical, and commercial quality of persimmon fruits during ambient storage.
The Contribution of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Emitted by Petals and Pollen to the Scent of Garden Roses
Authors: Caser Matteo , Scariot Valentina
Published: November 2022

Flower scent is an important trait of ornamental roses and has been an important character in the selection processes. In the present study, the composition of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by both petals and pollen of 21 garden roses (Chinensis, Climber, English rose, Floribunda, Hybrid Tea, Multiflora, Damascena, Musk rose, Polyantha, Rugosa and Shrub) was investigated through the GC-MS Static Headspace method. A total of 19 different VOCs were detected, and for each identified compound, an odorant description was included. In petals, the most common VOCs were 2-phenylethanol, methyl eugenol, and hexanal, present in 95%, 86% and 86% of garden roses, respectively. While, in pollen were methyl eugenol, methyl-1-butanol, and hexanal (present in 100%, 95%, and 90% of the genotypes, respectively), even if in lower content. The comparison between the petals and pollen profile shown that, even with less quantity, the main compounds characterizing the scent of the studied roses are present both in the petals and in the pollen (19 and 17 compounds, respectively), with different magnitude. Overall, the content of VOCs emitted by petals was more than five times higher than that produced by pollen. Different and characteristic VOCs profiles were emitted by petals and pollen of the studied garden roses.
Root and Rhizosphere Microbiome of Tomato Plants Grown in the Open Field in the South of West Siberia under Mineral Fertilization
Authors: Naumova Natalia , Baturina Olga , Nechaeva Taisia , Kabilov Marsel
Published: November 2022

Agricultural practices can affect root-associated microbiota, but the effect of fertilization is still poorly examined. The aim of this study was to obtain 16S and ITS metagenomic profiles of tomato rhizosphere and root endosphere under mineral (NPK) fertilization in the open field experiment in the south of West Siberia. We found 6 bacterial and 3 fungal phyla in the roots and 24 bacterial and 16 fungal phyla in the rhizosphere. Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria together contributed 90% of the total number of sequence reads in roots and 50% in the rhizosphere, whereas Ascomycota ultimately prevailed in OTUs’ richness and abundance in both biotopes. Fertilization changed the relative abundance of 32 bacterial and 14 fungal OTUs in the rhizosphere and of 7 bacterial and 3 fungal OTUs in roots. The revealed root bacteriobiome response to conventional mineral NPK fertilization by the dominant taxa at the high taxonomic level (class) illustrates well the role of NPK-changed plant metabolism in shaping endophytic microbiota and hence fertilization potential in enhancing plant growth-promoting microorganisms and mitigating plant pathogens. Using fertilization rate gradient in further research may bring a more detailed understanding of how to modify and even fine-tune root-associated microbiomes in order to enhance crops’ health and yields.
The Spatial Scale Dependence of The Hurst Coefficient in Global Annual Precipitation Data, and Its Role in Characterising Regional Precipitation Deficits within a Naturally Changing Climate
Authors: O’Connell Enda , O’Donnell Greg , Koutsoyiannis Demetris
Published: November 2022

Hurst’s seminal characterisation of long-term persistence (LTP) in geophysical records more than seven decades ago continues to inspire investigations into the Hurst phenomenon, not just in hydrology and climatology, but in many other scientific fields. Here, we present a new theoretical development based on stochastic Hurst–Kolmogorov (HK) dynamics that explains the recent finding that the Hurst coefficient increases with the spatial scale of averaging for regional annual precipitation. We also present some further results on the scale dependence of H in regional precipitation, and reconcile an apparent inconsistency between sample results and theory. LTP in average basin scale precipitation is shown to be consistent with LTP in the annual flows of some large river basins. An analysis of the crossing properties of precipitation deficits in regions exhibiting LTP shows that the Hurst coefficient can be a parsimonious descriptor of the risk of severe precipitation deficits. No evidence is found for any systematic trend in precipitation deficits attributable to anthropogenic climate change across the regions analysed. Future precipitation deficit risk assessments should, in the first instance, be based on stochastic HK simulations that encompass the envelope of uncertainty synonymous with LTP, and not rely exclusively on GCM projections that may not properly capture long-term natural variability in the climate. Some views and opinions are expressed on the implications for policy making in sustainable water resources management.
Water-Based and Land-Based Exercise for Children with Post-COVID-19 Condition (postCOVIDkids)—Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ogonowska-Slodownik Anna , Labecka Marta Kinga , Kaczmarczyk Katarzyna , McNamara Renae J. , Starczewski Michał , Gajewski Jan , Maciejewska-Skrendo Agnieszka , Morgulec-Adamowicz Natalia
Published: November 2022

The most common symptoms of post-COVID-19 condition in children are fatigue, shortness of breath, exercise intolerance, and weakness. The post-COVID-19 condition in children can be very debilitating and lead to prolonged school absences, high morbidity, and limitations in daily functioning. The aim of this research project is to determine the effectiveness of land-based and water-based exercise interventions on exercise capacity, fatigue, health-related quality of life, and pulmonary function in children with post-COVID-19 condition. This study is a prospective randomized controlled study with pre- and post-intervention assessment. Participants will be recruited from Warsaw’s primary schools and primary healthcare units according to the inclusion criteria: (i) symptoms of post-COVID-19 condition lasting more than one month following initial COVID-19 infection confirmed by the diagnosis by general practitioner (including obligatory fatigue and shortness of breath/respiratory problems); (ii) age 10–12 years old. Participants meeting the inclusion criteria will be randomized to one of three groups: water-based exercise, land-based exercise, or control (no exercise). We hope this study will provide guidance for long-COVID-19 rehabilitation in children.
Carbon Reduction of the Three-Year Air Pollution Control Plan under the LEAP Model Using a GREAT Tool in Panzhihua, China
Authors: Wang Junjie , Zhang Yi , Mei Linde , Xu Xuemei , Yin Hanmei , Feng Xiaoqiong , Chen Junhui
Published: November 2022

In the context of global warming and climate change, various international communities have set different reduction targets for carbon emissions. In 2020, China proposed that CO2 emissions will peak by 2030 and reached a critical period in which carbon reduction is a key strategic direction. Sichuan Academy of Environmental Sciences published the “Panzhihua Three-Year Iron Fist Gas Control Action Plan” in 2021. The measures implemented in the plan only address general considerations of conventional pollutants in the atmosphere. This study established the Panzhihua LEAP model based on the GREAT tool and built four simulation scenarios, including pollutant treatment upgrade (PTU), traffic improvement (TI), boiler remediation (BR), and baseline scenarios for industrial sources, mobile sources, and industrial boilers in policy implementation. It provided a supportive basis for the development of environmental protection measures in Sichuan province to increase the efficiency of carbon emission reduction. The quantitative analysis of the simulation results for the five years from 2020 to 2024 was conducted to discuss the intrinsic links between carbon emissions and energy consumption, market storage, and demand under different scenarios. It concluded that the BR and TI scenarios benefit carbon reduction, while the PTU scenario negatively impacts it. This study provided recommendations for analyzing the carbon footprint at a city-wide level, quantifying the relationship between the implementation of relevant environmental measures and carbon emissions, which are available for policy development that incorporates carbon reduction considerations and offers relevant support for future research.
Spatial Effects of Air Pollution on the Siting of Enterprises: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Xuna , Nan Shijing , Lu Shanbing , Wang Minna
Published: November 2022

The siting of enterprises is important for enterprises to formulate business objectives and business strategies, both of which are crucial to the development of enterprises in the future. Although there exists an irrefutable fact that the increasingly serious environmental problems are affecting the behaviors of enterprises, how air pollution affects the siting of enterprises has received little academic attention. Therefore, using the dataset of Chinese prefecture-level cities from 2014 to 2020, this paper employs the Spatial Durbin Model to investigate the direct and spatial spillover effects of air pollution on the site selection of enterprises. In addition, this paper also establishes a mediation effect model to explore the impact mechanism of air pollution on the site selection of enterprises. The empirical results show that air pollution exerts a negative impact on both the local and spatially related regions’ enterprises’ site selection, and the above conclusion is reinforced through a series of robustness checks. The heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that air pollution has a greater inhibitory effect on the siting of low-cleaning enterprises and small-scale enterprises for the local and adjacent regions. The mechanism analysis results indicate that air pollution inhibits the siting of enterprises by reducing the local labor endowment and market scale. Our study enriches the relevant theory of air pollution and enterprises’ location nexus, and it also provides an empirical basis for the Chinese government to formulate policies related to air governance and the siting of enterprises.
Validation of a Measurement Scale on Technostress for University Students in Chile
Authors: Vega-Muñoz Alejandro , Estrada-Muñoz Carla , Andreucci-Annunziata Paola , Contreras-Barraza Nicolas , Bilbao-Cotal Heidi
Published: November 2022

The main aim in this research was to validate a scale for measuring technostress in Chilean university students under the context of hybrid education. There were 212 university students as participants from the central-south zone of Chile. For measuring technostress manifestations, a technostress questionnaire for Chinese university professors and its adaptation for Spanish university students was used as a base instrument to adapt the scale. The exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis generated an adequacy of the psychometric scale by eliminating three items from the original scales but generated important changes by reordering the other 19 items into only three factors, establishing an important local difference with previous versions that contemplated five factors, but retaining as a central axis the stress produced by a misfit between the person and his or her environment. The resulting scale was based on factors such as Abilities-Demands Techno-Educational, Needs-Supplies Resources, and Person-People Factor. It also has a good internal consistency with a scale that allows for the continuation of technostress measurements in the local context; adding to studies on this topic which have already been carried out on diverse actors of the Chilean educational system; proposing a reliable and valid psychometric scale of technostress in Chilean university students; and giving researchers and academic managers the ability to know the adverse effects of the use of technologies and propose mitigation actions.