bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decision-Making Mechanism of Joint Activities for the Elderly and Children in Integrated Welfare Facilities: A Discussion Based on “Motivation–Constraint” Interaction Model
Authors: Luo Wenjing , Qiu Zhi , Yokoyama Yurika , Zheng Shengyuan
Published: August 2022

In China, joint activities for the elderly and children in integrated welfare facilities lack systematic decision procedures. By learning from the “leisure constraint” theory, the study puts forward six influencing indicators of motivation and constraint in the aspects of preliminary coordination, activity space and effect. By using semi-structured interviews and questionnaire surveys analyzed by deviation value computation, the study analyzes the evaluation value of influencing factors in the decision procedure of potential activity cases, where administrators and nurses act as two decision makers. Further, it discusses the decision-making mechanism based on the “motivation–constraint” interaction model. Firstly, it analyzes the dominant forces in the decision procedure, which are “motivation oriented”, “negotiation oriented” and “constraint oriented”. Secondly, it reveals that administrators and nurses as two decision makers tend to give positive motivation evaluations and deliberative constraints evaluations, respectively. Additionally, it analyzes the decision procedures of activities with distinct feasibility differentiation. Thirdly, it positions the levels of occurrence potential as “should occur”, “occurred but should be improved”, “potentially could occur” and “hard to occur”. Eventually, it analyzes the requirements and potential for joint activities under different service modules, which provides a theoretical foundation for the systematic planning and development of the joint activities.
Feasibility and Acceptability of Personalized Breast Cancer Screening (DECIDO Study): A Single-Arm Proof-of-Concept Trial
Authors: Laza-Vásquez Celmira , Martínez-Alonso Montserrat , Forné-Izquierdo Carles , Vilaplana-Mayoral Jordi , Cruz-Esteve Inés , Sánchez-López Isabel , Reñé-Reñé Mercè , Cazorla-Sánchez Cristina , Hernández-Andreu Marta , Galindo-Ortego Gisela , Llorens-Gabandé Montserrat , Pons-Rodríguez Anna , Rué Montserrat
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the acceptability and feasibility of offering risk-based breast cancer screening and its integration into regular clinical practice. A single-arm proof-of-concept trial was conducted with a sample of 387 women aged 40–50 years residing in the city of Lleida (Spain). The study intervention consisted of breast cancer risk estimation, risk communication and screening recommendations, and a follow-up. A polygenic risk score with 83 single nucleotide polymorphisms was used to update the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium risk model and estimate the 5-year absolute risk of breast cancer. The women expressed a positive attitude towards varying the frequency of breast screening according to individual risk and, especially, more frequently inviting women at higher-than-average risk. A lower intensity screening for women at lower risk was not as welcome, although half of the participants would accept it. Knowledge of the benefits and harms of breast screening was low, especially with regard to false positives and overdiagnosis. The women expressed a high understanding of individual risk and screening recommendations. The participants’ intention to participate in risk-based screening and satisfaction at 1-year were very high.
Correlation between Employee Performance, Well-Being, Job Satisfaction, and Life Satisfaction in Sedentary Jobs in Slovenian Enterprises
Authors: Kosec Zinka , Sekulic Stella , Wilson-Gahan Susan , Rostohar Katja , Tusak Matej , Bon Marta
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between employees’ work performance and their well-being, job satisfaction, and life satisfaction in sedentary jobs in Slovenian enterprises using a mixed-methods research design. The quantitative component of the research included the responses to four selected questionnaires of 120 employees in 22 identified enterprises (out of 81), with more than 20 employees, having more than 85 percent sedentary jobs. Each of four questionnaires was chosen to cover one area of enquiry under the research foci of work performance, job satisfaction, life satisfaction and well-being. The statistical program STATA was used for data analyses. The analysis shows statistically significant positive correlations between employee performance and job satisfaction (r = 0.35), employee performance and life satisfaction (r = 0.28), life satisfaction and well-being (r = 0.33), and job satisfaction and well-being, whereas the correlation between well-being and work performance did not prove to be statistically significant. The qualitative component of the mixed-methods research design included systematic observation combined with one-to-one discussions. The results indicated that job satisfaction and life satisfaction are more significant in determining work performance in sedentary jobs than employee well-being and that being unwell is still considered a sign of weakness; therefore, employees who are unwell do not want to expose themselves and refuse to cooperate in activities and studies about well-being. Further research examining the impact on work performance of organizational climate measurements in sedentary jobs is recommended.
The Dynamic Relationship among Bank Credit, House Prices and Carbon Dioxide Emissions in China
Authors: Chen Guangyang , Dong Kai , Wang Shaonan , Du Xiuli , Zhou Ronghua , Yang Zhongwei
Published: August 2022

This paper explores the dynamic relationship among bank credit, house prices and carbon dioxide emissions in China by systematically analyzing related data from January 2000 to December 2019 with the help of the time-varying parameter vector autoregression with stochastic volatility (TVP-SV-VAR) model and the Bayesian DCC-GARCH model. Empirical results show the expansion of bank credit significantly drives up house prices and increases carbon dioxide emissions in mosttimes. The rise in house prices inhibits the expansion of bank credit but increases carbon dioxide emissions and aggravates environment pollution, and that the increase in carbon dioxide is helpful to stimulate bank credit expansion and house price rise. In addition, bank credit and house prices are most relevant, followed by bank credit and carbon dioxide emissions, then by house prices and carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, we believe that in order to stabilize skyrocketing house prices, restrain carbon dioxide emissions, and secure a stable and healthy macro-economy, the government should strengthen management of bank credit, and effectively control its total volume.
Relationship between Lower Extremity Fitness Levels and Injury Risk among Recreational Alpine Skiers: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Zi , Cai Yihui , Wu Junqi , Xie Siyuan , Jiao Wei
Published: August 2022

Background: Although the importance of physical fitness for injury prevention is recognized in sports medicine and rehabilitation, few studies have investigated this factor among recreational alpine skiers. Objective: To determine the effect of lower extremity fitness on the risk and severity of injury among recreational alpine skiers. Method: This prospective cohort study involved 117 recreational skiers at two alpine resorts during the 2021–2022 winter season. Anthropometric characteristics, skiing skills, and lower extremity agility (hexagon test), balance (Y-Balance Test), and endurance (60-s squat test) were assessed before the winter season. All of the participants were divided into an injured group and an uninjured group, based on whether an injury was recorded throughout the season. Results: In binary logistic regression, the hexagon test duration and composite Y-Balance Test score were significant injury risk factors (p < 0.05). Ordinal polytomous logistic regression revealed no significant factors for injury severity (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Recreational alpine skiers with inferior lower extremity agility or balance may have a higher injury risk and this must be considered when assessing individual risk. In the context of injury prevention, regular neuromuscular training and testing, including agility and balance aspects should be recommended to skiers.
Risk Factors for Intimate Partner Femicide–Suicide in Italy: An Ecological Approach
Authors: Sorrentino Anna , Cinquegrana Vincenza , Guida Chiara
Published: August 2022

The present study investigated the intimate partner femicide (IPF) and intimate partner femicide–suicide (IPFS) perpetrators’ individual, relational, and contextual characteristics by analyzing, within the ecological approach, femicide cases that occurred in Italy from 2010 to 2019. On the topic, to date, scant studies examined possible differences between IPF and IPFS risk factors, and no studies have analyzed these factors by adopting an ecological systems model perspective. To this aim, archival research was carried out. Of a total of 1.207 femicides, 409 were IPF, and 227 were IPFS. Perpetrators’ age, level of employment, law enforcement membership, mental and/or physical illnesses, use of psychoactive substances, previous crimes, previous violent relationships, presence of children, previous violence in the couple, inability to accept the end of the relationship, quarrels and conflict, jealousy and the psychophysical illnesses of both authors and victims, as well as the use of firearms and victim’s request for help were analyzed. The results underlined the existence of different risk factors contributing to the IPF perpetrators’ decision to commit suicide such as perpetrators’ age, law enforcement membership, and firearm availability. These findings stress the need for specific risk assessment and management strategies for IPFS perpetrators.
Manual and Mechanical Induced Peri-Resuscitation Injuries—Post-Mortem and Clinical Findings
Authors: Gödde Daniel , Bruckschen Florian , Burisch Christian , Weichert Veronika , Nation Kevin J. , Thal Serge C. , Marsch Stephan , Sellmann Timur
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: Injuries related to resuscitation are not usually systematically recorded and documented. By evaluating this data, conclusions could be drawn about the quality of the resuscitation, with the aim of improving patient care and safety. (2) Methods: We are planning to conduct a multicentric, retrospective 3-phased study consisting of (1) a worldwide literature review (scoping review), (2) an analysis of anatomical pathological findings from local institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany to assess the transferability of the review data to the German healthcare system, and (3) depending on the results, possibly establishing potential prospective indicators for resuscitation-related injuries as part of quality assurance measures. (3) Conclusions: From the comparison of literature and local data, the picture of resuscitation-related injuries will be focused on and quality indicators will be derived.
Uncertainty and Well-Being amongst Homeworkers in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Study of University Staff
Authors: Wood Stephen , Michaelides George , Daniels Kevin , Niven Karen
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic heightened uncertainties in people’s lives—and was itself a source of fresh uncertainty. We report a study of homeworkers on whether such uncertainties, and particularly those related to their work environment, are associated with lower levels of well-being and whether this association is exacerbated by prior poor well-being. We focus on five uncertainties surrounding the pandemic and employment—the virus, the job quality, workload, logistics of work lives, and support from the employer. Our empirical tests show that uncertainties around the virus, employer support, and their job quality have the strongest negative associations with well-being. These are based on data collected over three time periods in the first year of the pandemic from a sample of university staff (academics and non-academics) and well-being is measured on two continua, anxiety–contentment and depression–enthusiasm. The effects of uncertainties around workload and logistics are less pronounced, but more apparent among employees with better (not poorer) past well-being, at various times of the recession. The study adds to our understanding of the pandemic and highlights the need to link uncertainty to mental health more than it has in the past.
Carbon Quantum Dots-Functionalized UiO-66-NH2 Enabling Efficient Infrared Light Conversion of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfuryl with Waste Ethanol into 5-Ethoxymethylfurfural
Authors: Xiao Hong , Zhang Yunting , Gong Junran , Li Kexin , Chen Xing , Fang Dexin , Lv Guochun , Wu Ganxue , Deng Shihuai , Zeng Zhenxing
Published: August 2022

The catalytic etherification of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) with the waste ethanol into high-energy-density 5-ethoxymethylfurfural (EMF) has been considered as a promising way to simultaneously alleviate the energy crisis and environmental pollution. However, the energy consumption is rather high as the synthesis of EMF requires a high temperature to open the etherification reaction. Herein, we demonstrate a clever design and construction of acidified biomass-derived carbon quantum dots (BCQDs)-modified UiO-66-NH2 that is immobilized on cermasite (H+/BCQDs/UiO-66-NH2@ceramsite), which can use the IR light as driven energy and wasted ethanol to trigger the catalytic conversion of HMF into EMF. The temperature on the surface of the immobilized catalyst could reach as high as 139 °C within 15 min IR irradiation. Due to the aforementioned advantages, the as-prepared catalyst exhibited excellent IR-triggered catalytic performance toward EMF production, where the EMF yields and selectivity were as high as 45% and 65%, respectively. The high catalytic performance originates from the outstanding photo-to-thermal conversion by the introduction of BCQDs, as well as the strong interactions between BCQDs and UiO-66-NH2 that boosts the etherification reactions. The immobilization of catalyst on cermasite not only benefits catalyst recycling, but more importantly reduces catalyst loss during practical applications. The conceptual study shown here provides new viewpoints in designing energy-effective materials for the conversion of wastes into high-value-added resources.
The Relationship between Depressive Symptoms, Loneliness, Self-Control, and Gaming Disorder among Polish Male and Female Gamers: The Indirect Effects of Gaming Motives
Authors: Cudo Andrzej , Wojtasiński Marcin , Tużnik Przemysław , Fudali-Czyż Agnieszka , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: August 2022

The present study analyzed the relationship between gaming disorder (GD), motives for gaming, and psychological problems in daily life (i.e., depression, loneliness, and self-control deficits) among Polish gamers. More specifically, the purpose of the present study was to analyze the indirect effects between GD and psychological problems in daily life via motives for gaming among male and female gamers. Additionally, the present study examined gender differences in motives for gaming and the relationship between the analyzed variables. The sample comprised 652 gamers (233 females; M = 28.77 years; SD = 7.18; age range: 18–48 years). The nine-item Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Version (IGDS9-SF) was used to assess GD. The motives for gaming were assessed using the Motives for Online Gaming Questionnaire (MOGQ). The nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to assess depressive symptoms, and the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS) was used to assess self-control. Loneliness was assessed using the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale. In order to examine the relationship between the study variables, path analysis and indirect effects analysis were performed among both male and female gamers. The present study showed that depressive symptoms and self-control exerted a significant indirect effect on GD via escape and fantasy motives for gaming. Additionally, there was an indirect effect between depressive symptoms and GD via social motives for gaming. However, these indirect effects were found among male gamers only. The present study also showed gender differences in all analyzed gaming motives except escape (males scoring higher on all of them) and in the relationship between depressive symptoms and escape. These findings contribute to a better understanding of GD development mechanisms, which are associated with psychological problems in daily life.
Smartphone Addiction among University Students in Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Prevalence, Relationship to Academic Procrastination, Quality of Life, Gender and Educational Stage
Authors: Albursan Ismael Salamah , Al. Qudah Mohammad Farhan , Al-Barashdi Hafidha Sulaiman , Bakhiet Salaheldin Farah , Darandari Eqbal , Al-Asqah Sumayyah S. , Hammad Heba Ibraheem , Al-Khadher Mohammed M. , Qara Saleem , Al-Mutairy Sultan Howedey , Albursan Huthaifa I.
Published: August 2022

The current study aims to identify the level and proportions of smartphone addiction, and academic procrastination among university students in the light of the Corona pandemic; identify the differences in smartphone addiction, academic procrastination, and quality of life according to gender and stage of study; and revealing the predictive ability of academic procrastination and quality of life for smartphone addiction. Methods: 556 male and female students from Saudi universities participated in the study, whose ages ranged from 18 to 52 years. Measures of academic procrastination and quality of life were used, in addition to the Italian scale of smartphone addiction, which was translated and checked for validity and reliability. Results: The results revealed that 37.4% of the sample were addicted to smartphone use, while 7.7% had a high level of procrastination, and 62.8% had an average level of procrastination. The results did not show statistically significant differences in smartphone addiction and quality of life according to gender and educational stage, while there were statistically significant differences in academic procrastination according to gender in favor of males, and according to stage of education in favor of undergraduate students. The results also revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between academic procrastination and smartphone addiction, and a statistically significant negative relationship between smartphone addiction and quality of life. A negative relationship between quality of life and academic procrastination was found. The results also revealed that addiction to smartphones could be predicted through academic procrastination and quality of life.
Coupling a Physical Replica with a Digital Twin: A Comparison of Participatory Decision-Making Methods in an Urban Park Environment
Authors: Luo Junjie , Liu Pengyuan , Cao Lei
Published: August 2022

Public participation is crucial in promoting built environment quality. By using Nancuiping park in China as a case study, this research brings attention to the digital twin park compared to the physical replica in a participatory workshop. Using UAV oblique photography, we created a digital twin model of this park and divided it into six layers to better manage and analyze the environment. Bracing the ‘bottom-up’ design philosophy, in the workshop, we analyzed existing issues in the park and simulated built environment changes, taking suggestions and comments from participants into account to support the decision-making of the park’s optimization. Our digital twin model and physical replica were assessed through a questionnaire in which 59 participants used 3 defined indicators: usability, interactivity, and scenario simulation and visualization quality. The results suggest that the physical replica is easier to use in the participatory design. However, the digital twin model can provide better interactivity and efficient scene simulation and visualization quality. The statistical analysis of the relationship between participants’ feedback on the two models and their sociodemographics (age, gender, and education background) shows that age is a barrier to promoting digital twins for older participants. Meanwhile, the digital twin’s highly interactive features and high-resolution visualization capability were attractive to the younger and well-educated participants. Our study indicates future directions to improve the urban digital twin by incorporating human feedback into the urban model, thus establishing a two-way interaction between the digital system, the physical environment, and human perceptions.
Discovering Spatio-Temporal Co-Occurrence Patterns of Crimes with Uncertain Occurrence Time
Authors: Chen Yuanfang , Cai Jiannan , Deng Min
Published: August 2022

The discovery of spatio-temporal co-occurrence patterns (STCPs) among multiple types of crimes whose events frequently co-occur in neighboring space and time is crucial to the joint prevention of crimes. However, the crime event occurrence time is often uncertain due to a lack of witnesses. This occurrence time uncertainty further results in the uncertainty of the spatio-temporal neighborhood relationships and STCPs. Existing methods have mostly modeled the uncertainty of events under the independent and identically distributed assumption and utilized one-sided distance information to measure the distance between uncertain events. As a result, STCPs detected from a dataset with occurrence time uncertainty (USTCPs) are likely to be erroneously assessed. Therefore, this paper proposes a probabilistic-distance-based USTCP discovery method. First, the temporal probability density functions of crime events with uncertain occurrence times are estimated by considering the temporal dependence. Second, the spatio-temporal neighborhood relationships are constructed based on the spatial Euclidean distance and the proposed temporal probabilistic distance. Finally, the prevalent USTCPs are identified. Experimental comparisons performed on twelve types of crimes from X City Public Security Bureau in China demonstrate that the proposed method can more objectively express the occurrence time of crimes and more reliably identify USTCPs.
Cannabidiol Prevents Spontaneous Fear Recovery after Extinction and Ameliorates Stress-Induced Extinction Resistance
Authors: Papagianni Eleni P. , Warren William G. , Cassaday Helen J. , Stevenson Carl W.
Published: August 2022

Cannabidiol, the main non-psychotropic constituent of cannabis, has potential as a treatment for anxiety-related disorders since it reduces learned fear expression and enhances fear extinction. The return of fear over time after successful extinction and stress-induced extinction resistance are potential barriers to the treatment of these disorders with extinction-based psychological therapy. In two experiments using rats subjected to auditory fear conditioning, we determined the effects of systemic cannabidiol treatment on (1) delayed extinction and later spontaneous fear recovery, and (2) extinction resistance caused by immediate extinction (the immediate extinction deficit (IED)). In Experiment 1, cannabidiol was given before delayed extinction occurring 24 h after conditioning, with extinction recall and spontaneous fear recovery tested drug-free 1 and 21 days after extinction, respectively. We found that cannabidiol had no effect on extinction recall but it prevented spontaneous fear recovery. In Experiment 2, the IED procedure was first validated, with immediate extinction occurring 30 min after conditioning. We confirmed that immediate extinction impaired extinction recall, compared to delayed extinction. Next, cannabidiol was given before immediate or no extinction, with extinction recall tested drug-free the next day. We found that cannabidiol rescued the IED, which did not involve effects on fear memory consolidation. In summary, cannabidiol prevented spontaneous fear recovery after delayed extinction and ameliorated extinction resistance caused by immediate extinction. Although the pharmacological mechanisms underlying these effects remain to be determined, our results add to evidence indicating that cannabidiol might prove useful as an adjunct for potentiating the psychological treatment of anxiety-related disorders.
Use of the Probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019 in Oral Diseases
Authors: Araujo Lisa Danielly Curcino , Furlaneto Flávia Aparecida Chaves , da Silva Léa Assed Bezerra , Kapila Yvonne L.
Published: August 2022

The oral cavity is one of the environments on the human body with the highest concentrations of microorganisms that coexist harmoniously and maintain homeostasis related to oral health. Several local factors can shift the microbiome to a pathogenic state of dysbiosis. Existing treatments for infections caused by changes in the oral cavity aim to control biofilm dysbiosis and restore microbial balance. Studies have used probiotics as treatments for oral diseases, due to their ability to reduce the pathogenicity of the microbiota and immunoinflammatory changes. This review investigates the role of the probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (B. lactis) HN019 in oral health, and its mechanism of action in pre-clinical and clinical studies. This probiotic strain is a lactic acid bacterium that is safe for human consumption. It mediates bacterial co-aggregation with pathogens and modulates the immune response. Studies using B. lactis HN019 in periodontitis and peri-implant mucositis have shown it to be a potential adjuvant treatment with beneficial microbiological and immunological effects. Studies evaluating its oral effects and mechanism of action show that this probiotic strain has the potential to be used in several dental applications because of its benefit to the host.
Natural Molecular Mechanisms of Plant Hyperaccumulation and Hypertolerance towards Heavy Metals
Authors: Skuza Lidia , Szućko-Kociuba Izabela , Filip Ewa , Bożek Izabela
Published: August 2022

The main mechanism of plant tolerance is the avoidance of metal uptake, whereas the main mechanism of hyperaccumulation is the uptake and neutralization of metals through specific plant processes. These include the formation of symbioses with rhizosphere microorganisms, the secretion of substances into the soil and metal immobilization, cell wall modification, changes in the expression of genes encoding heavy metal transporters, heavy metal ion chelation, and sequestration, and regenerative heat-shock protein production. The aim of this work was to review the natural plant mechanisms that contribute towards increased heavy metal accumulation and tolerance, as well as a review of the hyperaccumulator phytoremediation capacity. Phytoremediation is a strategy for purifying heavy-metal-contaminated soils using higher plants species as hyperaccumulators.
Association of CARD14 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms with Psoriasis
Authors: Suleman Saima , Chhabra Gagan , Raza Rubab , Hamid Arslan , Qureshi Javed Anver , Ahmad Nihal
Published: August 2022

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated chronic and painful disease characterized by red raised patches of inflamed skin that may have desquamation, silvery-white scales, itching and cracks. The susceptibility of developing psoriasis depends on multiple factors, with a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Studies have suggested an association between autosomal dominant CARD14 (caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 14) gain-of-function mutations with the pathophysiology of psoriasis. In this study, non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) of CARD14 gene were assessed to determine their association with psoriasis in Pakistani population. A total of 123 subjects (63 patients with psoriasis and 60 normal controls) were included in this study. DNA was extracted from blood, and PCR analysis was performed followed by Sanger sequencing for 18 CARD14 specific nsSNPs (14 previously reported and the 4 most pathogenic nsSNPs identified using bioinformatics analysis). Among the 18 tested SNPs, only 2 nsSNP, rs2066965 (R547S) and rs34367357 (V585I), were found to be associated with psoriasis. Furthermore, rs2066965 heterozygous genotype was found to be more prevalent in patients with joint pain. Additionally, the 3D structure of CARD14 protein was predicted using alpha-fold2. NMSim web server was used to perform coarse grind simulations of wild-type CARD14 and two mutated structures. R547S increases protein flexibility, whereas V353I is shown to promote CARD14-induced NF-kappa B activation. This study confirms the association between two CARD14 nsSNPs, rs2066965 and rs34367357 with psoriasis in a Pakistani population, and could be helpful in identifying the role of CARD14 gene variants as potential genetic markers in patients with psoriasis.
Cyclophilin A/CD147 Interaction: A Promising Target for Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Han Jang Mi , Jung Hye Jin
Published: August 2022

Cyclophilin A (CypA), which has peptidyl–prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) activity, regulates multiple functions of cells by binding to its extracellular receptor CD147. The CypA/CD147 interaction plays a crucial role in the progression of several diseases, including inflammatory diseases, coronavirus infection, and cancer, by activating CD147-mediated intracellular downstream signaling pathways. Many studies have identified CypA and CD147 as potential therapeutic targets for cancer. Their overexpression promotes growth, metastasis, therapeutic resistance, and the stem-like properties of cancer cells and is related to the poor prognosis of patients with cancer. This review aims to understand the biology and interaction of CypA and CD147 and to review the roles of the CypA/CD147 interaction in cancer pathology and the therapeutic potential of targeting the CypA/CD147 axis. To validate the clinical significance of the CypA/CD147 interaction, we analyzed the expression levels of PPIA and BSG genes encoding CypA and CD147, respectively, in a wide range of tumor types using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. We observed a significant association between PPIA/BSG overexpression and poor prognosis, such as a low survival rate and high cancer stage, in several tumor types. Furthermore, the expression of PPIA and BSG was positively correlated in many cancers. Therefore, this review supports the hypothesis that targeting the CypA/CD147 interaction may improve treatment outcomes for patients with cancer.
Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma with Exuberant CD30-Positive Follicular Dendritic Cell Proliferation in a SARS-CoV-2 Patient: The Role of Mutational Analysis to Exclude an Associated Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma
Authors: Rogges Evelina , Pelliccia Sabrina , Lopez Gianluca , Barresi Sabina , Tafuri Agostino , Alaggio Rita , Di Napoli Arianna
Published: August 2022

Follicular dendritic cell (FDC) proliferation in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) is still not well defined, challenging the accurate differential diagnosis between the AITL with expanded follicular dendritic cell meshwork and the combined AITL and follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS). Herein, we reported the case of a 58-year-old male with coexisting SARS-CoV-2 infection and AITL with an exuberant CD30-positive FDC proliferation, in which genetic analysis identified mutations of genes commonly involved in AITL but not in FDC sarcoma (i.e., RHOA, TET2, DNMT3A, and IDH2), thus supporting the reactive nature of the CD30-positive FDC expansion.
Depletion of Gut Microbiota Inhibits Hepatic Lipid Accumulation in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice
Authors: Han Hui , Wang Mengyu , Zhong Ruqing , Yi Bao , Schroyen Martine , Zhang Hongfu
Published: August 2022

Dysregulated lipid metabolism is a key pathology in metabolic diseases and the liver is a critical organ for lipid metabolism. The gut microbiota has been shown to regulate hepatic lipid metabolism in the host. However, the underlying mechanism by which the gut microbiota influences hepatic lipid metabolism has not been elucidated. Here, a gut microbiota depletion mouse model was constructed with an antibiotics cocktail (Abx) to study the mechanism through which intestinal microbiota regulates hepatic lipid metabolism in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Our results showed that the Abx treatment effectively eradicated the gut microbiota in these mice. Microbiota depletion reduced the body weight and fat deposition both in white adipose tissue and liver. In addition, microbiota depletion reduced serum levels of glucose, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), insulin, and leptin in HFD-fed mice. Importantly, the depletion of gut microbiota in HFD-fed mice inhibited excessive hepatic lipid accumulation. Mechanistically, RNA-seq results revealed that gut microbiota depletion changed the expression of hepatic genes involved in cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism, such as Cd36, Mogat1, Cyp39a1, Abcc3, and Gpat3. Moreover, gut microbiota depletion reduced the abundance of bacteria associated with abnormal metabolism and inflammation, including Lachnospiraceae, Coriobacteriaceae_UCG-002, Enterorhabdus, Faecalibaculum, and Desulfovibrio. Correlation analysis showed that there was strong association between the altered gut microbiota abundance and the serum cholesterol level. This study indicates that gut microbiota ameliorates HFD-induced hepatic lipid metabolic dysfunction, which might be associated with genes participating in cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism in the liver.
Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics Reveal the Involvement of PRT6 in Arabidopsis thaliana Seed Responsiveness to Ethylene
Authors: Wang Xu , Davanture Marlène , Zivy Michel , Bailly Christophe , Nambara Eiji , Corbineau Françoise
Published: August 2022

In Arabidopsis thaliana, the breaking of seed dormancy in wild type (Col-0) by ethylene at 100 μL L−1 required at least 30 h application. A mutant of the proteolytic N-degron pathway, lacking the E3 ligase PROTEOLYSIS 6 (PRT6), was investigated for its role in ethylene-triggered changes in proteomes during seed germination. Label-free quantitative proteomics was carried out on dormant wild type Col-0 and prt6 seeds treated with (+) or without (−) ethylene. After 16 h, 1737 proteins were identified, but none was significantly different in protein levels in response to ethylene. After longer ethylene treatment (30 h), 2552 proteins were identified, and 619 Differentially Expressed Proteins (DEPs) had significant differences in protein abundances between ethylene treatments and genotypes. In Col, 587 DEPs were enriched for those involved in signal perception and transduction, reserve mobilization and new material generation, which potentially contributed to seed germination. DEPs up-regulated by ethylene in Col included S-adenosylmethionine synthase 1, methionine adenosyltransferase 3 and ACC oxidase involved in ethylene synthesis and of Pyrabactin Resistance1 acting as an ABA receptor, while DEPs down-regulated by ethylene in Col included aldehyde oxidase 4 involved in ABA synthesis. In contrast, in prt6 seeds, ethylene did not result in strong proteomic changes with only 30 DEPs. Taken together, the present work demonstrates that the proteolytic N-degron pathway is essential for ethylene-mediated reprogramming of seed proteomes during germination.
Using ncRNAs as Tools in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment—The Way towards Personalized Medicine to Improve Patients’ Health
Authors: Piergentili Roberto , Basile Giuseppe , Nocella Cristina , Carnevale Roberto , Marinelli Enrico , Patrone Renato , Zaami Simona
Published: August 2022

Although the first discovery of a non-coding RNA (ncRNA) dates back to 1958, only in recent years has the complexity of the transcriptome started to be elucidated. However, its components are still under investigation and their identification is one of the challenges that scientists are presently facing. In addition, their function is still far from being fully understood. The non-coding portion of the genome is indeed the largest, both quantitatively and qualitatively. A large fraction of these ncRNAs have a regulatory role either in coding mRNAs or in other ncRNAs, creating an intracellular network of crossed interactions (competing endogenous RNA networks, or ceRNET) that fine-tune the gene expression in both health and disease. The alteration of the equilibrium among such interactions can be enough to cause a transition from health to disease, but the opposite is equally true, leading to the possibility of intervening based on these mechanisms to cure human conditions. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge on these mechanisms, illustrating how they can be used for disease treatment, the current challenges and pitfalls, and the roles of environmental and lifestyle-related contributing factors, in addition to the ethical, legal, and social issues arising from their (improper) use.
HDL-like-Mediated Cell Cholesterol Trafficking in the Central Nervous System and Alzheimer’s Disease Pathogenesis
Authors: Borràs Carla , Mercer Aina , Sirisi Sònia , Alcolea Daniel , Escolà-Gil Joan Carles , Blanco-Vaca Francisco , Tondo Mireia
Published: August 2022

The main aim of this work is to review the mechanisms via which high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-mediated cholesterol trafficking through the central nervous system (CNS) occurs in the context of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular amyloid beta (Aβ) and abnormally hyperphosphorylated intracellular tau filaments in neurons. Cholesterol metabolism has been extensively implicated in the pathogenesis of AD through biological, epidemiological, and genetic studies, with the APOE gene being the most reproducible genetic risk factor for the development of AD. This manuscript explores how HDL-mediated cholesterol is transported in the CNS, with a special emphasis on its relationship to Aβ peptide accumulation and apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-mediated cholesterol transport. Indeed, we reviewed all existing works exploring HDL-like-mediated cholesterol efflux and cholesterol uptake in the context of AD pathogenesis. Existing data seem to point in the direction of decreased cholesterol efflux and the impaired entry of cholesterol into neurons among patients with AD, which could be related to impaired Aβ clearance and tau protein accumulation. However, most of the reviewed studies have been performed in cells that are not physiologically relevant for CNS pathology, representing a major flaw in this field. The ApoE4 genotype seems to be a disruptive element in HDL-like-mediated cholesterol transport through the brain. Overall, further investigations are needed to clarify the role of cholesterol trafficking in AD pathogenesis.
Palmitoylation of Voltage-Gated Ion Channels
Authors: Cassinelli Silvia , Viñola-Renart Carla , Benavente-Garcia Anna , Navarro-Pérez María , Capera Jesusa , Felipe Antonio
Published: August 2022

Protein lipidation is one of the most common forms of posttranslational modification. This alteration couples different lipids, such as fatty acids, phospho- and glycolipids and sterols, to cellular proteins. Lipidation regulates different aspects of the protein’s physiology, including structure, stability and affinity for cellular membranes and protein–protein interactions. In this scenario, palmitoylation is the addition of long saturated fatty acid chains to amino acid residues of the proteins. The enzymes responsible for this modification are acyltransferases and thioesterases, which control the protein’s behavior by performing a series of acylation and deacylation cycles. These enzymes target a broad repertoire of substrates, including ion channels. Thus, protein palmitoylation exhibits a pleiotropic role by differential modulation of the trafficking, spatial organization and electrophysiological properties of ion channels. Considering voltage-gated ion channels (VGICs), dysregulation of lipidation of both the channels and the associated ancillary subunits correlates with the development of various diseases, such as cancer or mental disorders. Therefore, a major role for protein palmitoylation is currently emerging, affecting not only the dynamism and differential regulation of a moiety of cellular proteins but also linking to human health. Therefore, palmitoylation of VGIC, as well as related enzymes, constitutes a novel pharmacological tool for drug development to target related pathologies.
Anticancer and Antioxidant Activities in Ganoderma lucidum Wild Mushrooms in Poland, as Well as Their Phenolic and Triterpenoid Compounds
Authors: Kolniak-Ostek Joanna , Oszmiański Jan , Szyjka Anna , Moreira Helena , Barg Ewa
Published: August 2022

The goal of this study was to the assess anti-cancer and antioxidant properties of the Ganoderma lucidum fruiting body, and to identify bioactive compounds found in their extracts. Significant antiproliferative activity was observed against MCF-7, MCF-7/DX, LOVO, LOVO/DX, MDA-MB 231, SW 620, and NHDF cell lines. With IC50 values of 25.38 µg/mL and 47.90 µg/mL, respectively, the extract was most effective against MDA-MB 231 and SW 620 cell lines. The bioactive compounds were identified using an ACQUITY UPLC-PDA-MS system. The extracts contained 13 triterpenoids and 28 polyphenols from the flavonols, phenolic acids, flavones, flavan-3-ols, and stilbenes families. Ganoderic acid derivative was found to be the most abundant triterpenoid (162.4 mg/g DW), followed by ganoderic acid B (145.6 mg/g DW). Resveratrol was the most abundant phenolic in the extract (5155.7 mg/100 g DM). The findings could explain why G. lucidum extracts are used in folk medicine.
Isolation of Reporter Cells That Respond to Vitamin A and/or D Using a piggyBac Transposon Promoter-Trapping Vector System
Authors: Ishikawa Kosuke , Tamamura Sakura , Takahashi Nobuhito , Takagi Motoki , Semba Kentaro , Watanabe Shinya
Published: August 2022

Previously, we established a highly sensitive promoter-trapping vector system using the piggyBac transposon for the efficient isolation of reporter cells. Herein, we examine whether this screening system can be applied to obtain vitamin-responsive cells. As a result, one and two reporter cells that responded to bexarotene (vitamin A) and calcitriol (vitamin D), respectively, were isolated from 4.7 × 106 seeded HeLaS3 cells. 5′ RACE analyses identified the well-known CYP24A1 gene as a calcitriol-responsive gene, as well as two new bexarotene- or calcitriol-responsive genes, BDKRB2 and TSKU, respectively. TSKU, interestingly, also responded to bexarotene. Endogenous levels of the TSKU and BDKRB2 transcripts displayed only slight changes and were not detected in the comprehensive analyses performed to date. Dose–response analyses of BDKRB2 and TSKU reporter cells in parallel revealed a differential profile in response to each vitamin A agonist, suggesting a bioanalyzer. The present study demonstrates that producing multiple reporter cells by a type of random screening can efficiently identify novel genes with unusual characteristics and be used for the profiling of the properties of vitamin compounds. Similar approaches to the method shown here may be useful for identifying new markers and for the analysis or diagnosis of nutrients, toxins, metabolites, etc.
Polyphyllin I Promotes Autophagic Cell Death and Apoptosis of Colon Cancer Cells via the ROS-Inhibited AKT/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Luo Qihui , Jia Lanlan , Huang Chao , Qi Qi , Jahangir Asad , Xia Yu , Liu Wentao , Shi Riyi , Tang Li , Chen Zhengli
Published: August 2022

Colon cancer is a common malignant tumor of the digestive tract, and it is considered among the biggest killers. Scientific and reasonable treatments can effectively improve the survival rate of patients if performed in the early stages. Polyphyllin I (PPI), a pennogenyl saponin isolated from Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis, has exhibited strong anti-cancer activities in previous studies. Here, we report that PPI exhibits a cytotoxic effect on colon cancer cells. PPI suppressed cell viability and induced autophagic cell death in SW480 cells after 12 and 24 h, with the IC50 values 4.9 ± 0.1 μmol/L and 3.5 ± 0.2 μmol/L, respectively. Furthermore, we found PPI induced time-concentration-dependent autophagy and apoptosis in SW480 cells. In addition, down-regulated AKT/mTOR activity was found in PPI-treated SW480 cells. Increased levels of ROS might link to autophagy and apoptosis because reducing the level of ROS by antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) treatment mitigated PPI-induced autophagy and apoptosis. Although we did not know the molecular mechanism of how PPI induced ROS production, this is the first study to show that PPI induces ROS production and down-regulates the AKT/mTOR pathway, which subsequently promotes the autophagic cell death and apoptosis of colon cancer cells. This present study reports PPI as a potential therapeutic agent for colon cancer and reveals its underlying mechanisms of action.
Breast Cancer-Delivered Exosomal miRNA as Liquid Biopsy Biomarkers for Metastasis Prediction: A Focus on Translational Research with Clinical Applicability
Authors: Baldasici Oana , Pileczki Valentina , Cruceriu Daniel , Gavrilas Laura Ioana , Tudoran Oana , Balacescu Loredana , Vlase Laurian , Balacescu Ovidiu
Published: August 2022

Metastasis represents the most important cause of breast cancer-associated mortality. Even for early diagnosed stages, the risk of metastasis is significantly high and predicts a grim outcome for the patient. Nowadays, efforts are made for identifying blood-based biomarkers that could reliably distinguish patients with highly metastatic cancers in order to ensure a closer follow-up and a more personalized therapeutic method. Exosomes are nano vesicles secreted by cancer cells that can transport miRNAs, proteins, and other molecules and deliver them to recipient cells all over the body. Through this transfer, cancer cells modulate their microenvironment and facilitate the formation of the pre-metastatic niche, leading to sustained progression. Exosomal miRNAs have been extensively studied due to their promising potential as prognosis biomarkers for metastatic breast cancer. In this review, we tried to depict an overview of the existing literature regarding exosomal miRNAs that are already validated as potential biomarkers, and which could be immediately available for the clinic. Moreover, in the last section, we highlighted several miRNAs that have proven their function in preclinical studies and could be considered for clinical validation. Considering the lack of standard methods for evaluating exosomal miRNA, we also discussed the challenges and the technical aspects underlying this issue.
Concentration Optimization of Localized Cu0 and Cu+ on Cu-Based Electrodes for Improving Electrochemical Generation of Ethanol from Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Lu Hong , Wang Guan , Zhou Yong , Wotango Aselefech Sorsa , Wu Jiahao , Meng Qi , Li Ping
Published: August 2022

Copper-based electrodes can catalyze electroreduction of CO2 to two-carbon products. However, obtaining a specific product with high efficiency depends on the oxidation state of Cu for the Cu-based materials. In this study, Cu-based electrodes were prepared on fluorinated tin oxide (FTO) using the one-step electrodeposition method. These electrodes were used as efficient electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to ethanol. The concentration ratio of Cu0 and Cu+ on the electrodes was precisely modulated by adding monoethanolamine (MEA). The results of spectroscopic characterization showed that the concentration ratio of localized Cu+ and Cu0 (Cu+/Cu0) on the Cu-based electrodes was controlled from 1.24/1 to 1.54/1 by regulating the amount of MEA. It was found that the electrode exhibited the best electrochemical efficiency and ethanol production in the CO2 reduction reaction at the optimal concentration ratio Cu+/Cu0 of 1.42/1. The maximum faradaic efficiencies of ethanol and C2 were 48% and 77%, respectively, at the potential of −0.6 V vs. a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). Furthermore, the optimal concentration ratio of Cu+/Cu0 achieved the balance between Cu+ and Cu0 with the most favorable free energy for the formation of *CO intermediate. The stable existence of the *CO intermediate significantly contributed to the formation of the C–C bond for ethanol production.