bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Fire Smoke Exposure on Firefighters’ Lung Function: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Barbosa Joana V. , Farraia Mariana , Branco Pedro T. B. S. , Alvim-Ferraz Maria Conceição M. , Martins Fernando G. , Annesi-Maesano Isabella , Sousa Sofia I. V.
Published: December 2022

Firefighters are exposed to a range of harmful substances during firefighting. Exposure to fire smoke has been associated with a decrease in their lung function. However, the cause–effect relationship between those two factors is not yet demonstrated. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the potential associations between firefighters’ occupational exposure and their lung function deterioration. Studies were identified from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Science Direct databases (August 1990–March 2021). The studies were included when reporting the lung function values of Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV1) or Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). The meta-analyses were performed using the generic inverse variance in R software with a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis was used to determine if the lung function was influenced by a potential study effect or by the participants’ characteristics. A total of 5562 participants from 24 studies were included. No significant difference was found between firefighters’ predicted FEV1 from wildland, 97.64% (95% CI: 91.45–103.82%; I2 = 99%), and urban fires, 99.71% (95% CI: 96.75–102.67%; I2 = 98%). Similar results were found for the predicted FVC. Nevertheless, the mean values of firefighters’ predicted lung function varied significantly among studies, suggesting many confounders, such as trials’ design, statistical methods, methodologies applied, firefighters’ daily exposure and career length, hindering an appropriate comparison between the studies.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Acceptance of Sinopharm and AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 Vaccines among Egyptian Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Boshra Marian S. , Elgendy Marwa O. , Abdelaty Lamiaa N , Tammam Mahmoud , Alanazi Abdullah S. , Alzarea Abdulaziz Ibrahim , Alsahali Saud , Sarhan Rania M.
Published: December 2022

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the Egyptian population’s preference and awareness related to available COVID-19 vaccines and to determine different factors that can affect beliefs concerning these vaccines. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based study was carried out among the general population in Egypt. Data collection was conducted via an online questionnaire. Results: About 426 subjects participated in the survey. Vaccine preference is nearly equally even (50%) among all respondents. There was no significant difference in vaccine preference according to age, gender, residence, educational level, or social status. About 50% of public respondents mentioned that both AstraZeneca and Sinopharm vaccines do not offer protection against new variant COVID-19 strains. Healthcare workers are the lowest respondents to agree that vaccines offer protection against new COVID-19 variants (10.9%) compared to unemployed respondents (20.3%) and other professions (68.8%) with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.005). Safety of vaccine administration among children below 18 showed statistical differences for gender and educational level predictors. Conclusions: Most of the study population has satisfying knowledge about the COVID-19 vaccine. Continuous awareness campaigns must be carried out so that the people’s background is updated with any new information that would help in raising the trust in vaccination.
Metal Exposure-Related Welder’s Pneumoconiosis and Lung Function: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Container Factory of China
Authors: Zhou Siyun , Wang Yue , Yu Chen , Ding Chunguang , He Jiayu , Liu Yi , Wang Huanqiang , Ni Chunhui
Published: December 2022

Long-term inhalation of welding fume at high exposure can cause welder’s pneumoconiosis, and metals in welding dust are associated with respiratory dysfunction. This cross-sectional study, which contains 384 Chinese male workers who were or had been working in a container factory, aimed to assess the potential risk of haemal and urinary metal content in welder’s pneumoconiosis. Further, we investigated their effects on lung function parameters. Metal content and lung function were measured using inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and spirometer, respectively. The concentration and metal content of respirable dust as well as total dust were collected at this container factory. Lung function of cases with welder’s pneumoconiosis was significantly worse, as indicated by lower values of FVC, FVC% predicted, FEV1, FEV1% predicted, MEF25% predicted, and MMEF% predicted (p < 0.05). Results of logistic regression models showed that haemal Cr and Zn were risk factors of welder’s pneumoconiosis (OR = 4.98, 95%CI: 1.73–21.20, p = 0.009 for Cr; OR = 5.23, 95%CI: 1.56–41.08, p = 0.033 for Zn) after adjusted with age, BMI, working years, welding dust exposure years, and smoking status. Multiple linear regression models showed that several metals (haemal Cd and Pb; urinary Cd and Fe) were significantly associated with different lung function indices in the welder’s pneumoconiosis group. Compared to non-welders, welders were exposed to considerably higher levels of respirable dust, total dust, and six kinds of metals (p < 0.05). In conclusion, haemal Cr and Zn are positively related to welder’s pneumoconiosis. Meanwhile, Cd and Pb might worsen lung function in welder’s pneumoconiosis.
The Impact of Chronic Pain, Stiffness and Difficulties in Performing Daily Activities on the Quality of Life of Older Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wojcieszek Agata , Kurowska Anna , Majda Anna , Liszka Henryk , Gądek Artur
Published: December 2022

Osteoarthritis causes a number of physical ailments, which result in the deterioration of a persons’ general health and reduction of their ability to move freely. This cross-sectional study was designed to assess the impact of physical ailments in the course of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) on the quality of life (QoL) of patients in early old age. An anonymous survey was conducted by the use of the recognized research tools: Western Ontario scale and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), The Index of Severity for Knee Disease (ISK) and World Health Organization Quality of Life—BEFF (WHOQOL-BREF). The study involved 300 people aged between 60 and 75 years old, including 150 patients diagnosed with gonarthrosis and 150 people without lower limb complaints. The significant intensification of the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis was associated with a worse assessment of health (p < 0.001), overall quality of life (p < 0.001) and in the following domains: physical (p < 0.001), mental (p < 0.001) and environmental (p < 0.001) in a group of patients with KOA. These findings suggest that taking measures to reduce knee pain and improve function may have an impact on improving the overall quality of the life of people in their early old age.
Acute Effect of Short Intensive Self-Myofascial Release on Jump Performance in Amateur Athletes: A Randomized Cross-Over Study
Authors: Koźlenia Dawid , Domaradzki Jarosław
Published: December 2022

Searching for effective methods to maximize physical performance that can be utilized during warm-ups is challenging in modern sports. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a short and intensive self-myofascial release (SI-SMR) on jumps in amateur, collegiate athletes. The study sample consists of 30 subjects with an average age of 21.8 years. The tests conducted included a squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and drop jump (DJ). In the first week, half of the participants performed a standardized warm-up with additional short (15 s per lower limb muscle group) and intensive (20 reps/15 s) SMR and then performed jump tests. The other half performed a standard warm-up. The following week the groups switched interventions. The results revealed a tendency for all jump test parameters (height, force, and power), the reactive strength index, and stiffness to improve with SI-SMR, but the differences were small and insignificant. A dependent t-test for paired samples revealed that only SJ height improvement (+0.96 ± 2.63 cm) reached statistical significance (p = 0.04), but the small ES (ES = 0.14) could have attenuated this result. When a two-way mixed ANOVA was applied, the differences were insignificant. SI-SMR was ineffective in the direct improvement of jump performance. Although SI-SMR had no adverse effects, athletes should focus on specific preparations for sports competitions instead of using an SI-SMR protocol.
Invasive Crayfish Faxonius limosus: Meat Safety, Nutritional Quality and Sensory Profile
Authors: Lazarević Jasmina , Čabarkapa Ivana , Rakita Slađana , Banjac Maja , Tomičić Zorica , Škrobot Dubravka , Radivojević Goran , Kalenjuk Pivarski Bojana , Tešanović Dragan
Published: December 2022

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety parameters, nutritional value and sensory profile of the meat from spiny-cheek crayfish (Faxonius limosus), captured from the Danube River in Serbia. To achieve this, we determined their microbiological safety, chemical composition, minerals and heavy metals, fatty acid and amino acid profile, as well as a sensory profile of the meat. The obtained results showed that the meat from crayfish was microbiologically safe. Crayfish meat has a high nutritional quality, high protein content (18.12%) and a total of 17 detected amino acids, of which essential amino acids constituted 6.96 g/100 g sample. Additionally, the crayfish meat was characterized by high levels of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), particularly n-3 PUFA, at an optimal ratio of n-3/n-6 and with low values of atherogenic and thrombogenic indices. Predominant macrominerals in the meat are K, followed by Na, Ca, P and Mg, whereas the content of microminerals was in the following order: Zn > Cu > Fe > Mn. The concentrations of accumulated toxic metals (Cd, Pb, As and Hg) did not exceed the maximum allowed levels. Sensory analysis confirmed that the meat from spiny-cheek crayfish has the potential to become a new food source of essential nutrients.
Assessing Physiological and Psychological Factors Contributing to Stress among Medical Students: Implications for Health
Authors: Al-Rouq Fawzia , Al-Otaibi Alanoud , AlSaikhan Alanoud , Al-Essa Maha , Al-Mazidi Sarah
Published: December 2022

Background: Physiological responses to stress disturb internal homeostasis, leading to serious health consequences. Medical students experience high stress levels that should be managed promptly to prevent stress-related impacts on students’ health and education. Aim: This study aims to identify the relationship between stress factors, general health, and academic performance. Methods: This study recruited 421 medical students of all academic years. Participants completed an online survey assessing stress levels using a validated 10-item Perceived Stress Scale. Stress was also compared with students’ health and academic performance. Results: We found that 93.6% of our sample experienced moderate to severe stress, and 31% reported increased stress due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Except for internship students, stress significantly decreases as students progress each academic year (p < 0.05). Students with higher GPAs and with comorbidities are more stressed. Comorbidities were primarily reported in students in their final years of education with a 4% lower GPA than healthy students. Although we had three stress-related themes (general, academic, and pandemic), students’ perceptions of stress factors were primarily academically related. Conclusions: Students experience high stress levels in their final educational years, which might increase the risk of health issues and low academic performance. It is essential to innovate stress-coping strategies specially designed for medical students and mandatorily provided by all medical colleges and to educate students on the effects of stress on their health.
Effect of Evolution of Carbon Structure during Torrefaction in Woody Biomass on Thermal Degradation
Authors: Liu Peng , Lang Panpan , Lu Ailing , Li Yanling , Li Xueqin , Sun Tanglei , Yang Yantao , Li Hui , Lei Tingzhou
Published: December 2022

Torrefaction is an effective method for upgrading biomass. Cedar torrefaction is carried out in a fixed bed reactor at the temperature of 200–300 °C. The structural parameters are obtained from elemental analysis and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Thermal degradation behavior of raw and torrefied cedar is monitored by thermogravimetry analysis. The results show that carbon structure varied during torrefaction has a significant effect on thermal degradation of cedar. Some unstable oxygen functional groups, such as C1 of hemicellulose, β-O-4 linked bonds, and amorphous C6 of cellulose, are decomposed at mild torrefaction of torrefied temperature ≤ 200 °C. The temperature of maximum weight loss rate increases from 348 °C of raw cedar to 373 °C of C-200. The amorphous cellulose is partly re-crystallized at moderate torrefaction of torrefied temperature 200–250 °C. The aromaticity of torrefied cedar increases from 0.45 of C-200 to 0.73 of C-250. The covalent bond in the side chain of aromatic rings in cedar was further broken during torrefaction at severe torrefaction of torrefied temperature 250–300 °C. The area percentage of DTG mainly signed at 387 °C of C-300. The proton aromatic carbon increases from 12.35% of C-250 to 21.69% of C-300. These results will further facilitate the utilization of biomass for replacing fossil fuel to drive carbon neutrality.
Validity and Reliability of Questionnaires That Assess Barriers and Facilitators of Sedentary Behavior in the Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review
Authors: Oliveira Guilherme Augusto , Marcelino Andressa Costa , Tristão Parra Maíra , Nascimento-Ferreira Marcus Vinicius , De Moraes Augusto César Ferreira
Published: December 2022

We systematically reviewed the literature about the validity and reliability of barriers and facilitators of sedentary behavior questionnaires for children and adolescents, considering accelerometers as the reference method. We included studies that assessed the agreement between the barriers and facilitators of sedentary behavior through a questionnaire and an objective measure (e.g., accelerometry). We searched four electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and SCOPUS): these databases were searched for records from inception to 5 March 2021, and updated to November 2022. The search strategy used the following descriptors: children and adolescents; barriers or facilitators; questionnaires; accelerometers; and validation or reliability coefficient. Studies identified in the search were selected independently by two reviewers. The inclusion criteria were: (i) population of children and adolescents, (ii) original studies, (iii) subjective and objective measurement methods, (iv) studies that report validity or reliability, and (v) population without specific diseases. Seven studies were eligible for our review. The main exclusion reasons were studies that did not report validity or reliability coefficients (56.6%) and non-original studies (14.5%). The participants’ ages in the primary studies ranged from 2 to 18 years. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was the most reported reliability assessment among the eligible articles, while Pearson and Spearman’s coefficients were prevalent for validity. The reliability of self-report questionnaires for assessing sedentary behavior ranged from r = 0.3 to 1.0. The validity of the accelerometers ranged from r = −0.1 to 0.9. Family environment was the main factor associated with sedentary behavior. Our findings suggest that questionnaires assessing the barriers and facilitators of sedentary behavior are weak to moderate. PROSPERO Registration (CRD42021233945).
Fast Pyrolysis of Cellulose and the Effect of a Catalyst on Product Distribution
Authors: Sun Tanglei , Zhang Lu , Yang Yantao , Li Yanling , Ren Suxia , Dong Lili , Lei Tingzhou
Published: December 2022

Fast pyrolysis of microcrystalline cellulose (MC) was carried out by pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). The effects of temperature, time, and a catalyst on the distribution of the pyrolysis products were analyzed. The reaction temperature and time can significantly affect the types and yields of compounds produced by cellulose pyrolysis. A pyrolysis temperature of 500–600 °C and pyrolysis time of 20 s optimized the yield of volatile liquid in the pyrolysis products of cellulose. In all catalytic experiments, the relative contents of alcohols (1.97%), acids (2.32%), and esters (4.52%) were highest when K2SO4 was used as a catalyst. HZSM-5 promoted the production of carbohydrates (92.35%) and hydrocarbons (2.20%), while it inhibited the production of aldehydes (0.30%) and ketones (1.80%). MCM-41 had an obvious catalytic effect on cellulose, increasing the contents of aldehydes (41.58%), ketones (24.51%), phenols (1.82%), furans (8.90%), and N-compounds (12.40%) and decreasing those of carbohydrates (5.38%) and alcohols (0%).
Comment on Alharbi et al. Adoption of Health Mobile Apps during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Health Belief Model Approach. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 4179
Authors: Nwosu Chinonyelum , Ward Kenneth D.
Published: December 2022

Alharbi and colleagues’ article, “Adoption of health mobile apps during the COVID-19 lockdown: a Health Belief Model approach”, was interesting, well-written, and informative [...]
Spatial Distribution and Estimation Model of Soil pH in Coastal Eastern China
Authors: Xie Xiansheng , Qiu Jianfei , Feng Xinxin , Hou Yanlin , Wang Shuojin , Jia Shugang , Liu Shutian , Hou Xianda , Dou Sen
Published: December 2022

Soil pH is an essential indicator for assessing soil quality and soil health. In this study, based on the Chinese farmland soil survey dataset and meteorological dataset, the spatial distribution characteristics of soil pH in coastal eastern China were analyzed using kriging interpolation. The relationships between hydrothermal conditions and soil pH were explored using regression analysis with mean annual precipitation (MAP), mean annual temperature (MAT), the ratio of precipitation to temperature (P/T), and the product of precipitation and temperature (P*T) as the main explanatory variables. Based on this, a model that can rapidly estimate soil pH was established. The results showed that: (a) The spatial heterogeneity of soil pH in coastal eastern China was obvious, with the values gradually decreasing from north to south, ranging from 4.5 to 8.5; (b) soil pH was significantly correlated with all explanatory variables at the 0.01 level. In general, MAP was the main factor affecting soil pH (r = −0.7244), followed by P/T (r = −0.6007). In the regions with MAP < 800 mm, soil pH was negatively correlated with MAP (r = −0.4631) and P/T (r = −0.7041), respectively, and positively correlated with MAT (r = 0.6093) and P*T (r = 0.3951), respectively. In the regions with MAP > 800 mm, soil pH was negatively correlated with MAP (r = −0.6651), MAT (r = −0.5047), P/T (r = −0.3268), and P*T (r = −0.5808), respectively. (c) The estimation model of soil pH was: y = 23.4572 − 6.3930 × lgMAP + 0.1312 × MAT. It has been verified to have a high accuracy (r = 0.7743, p < 0.01). The mean error, the mean absolute error, and the root mean square error were 0.0450, 0.5300, and 0.7193, respectively. It provides a new path for rapid estimation of the regional soil pH, which is important for improving the management of agricultural production and slowing down soil degradation.
Evaluation Study on the Use of Non-Contact Prevention and Protection Products in the Context of COVID-19: A Comprehensive Evaluation Method from AHP and Entropy Weight Method
Authors: Guo Yanlong , Li Xuan , Chen Denghang , Zhang Han
Published: December 2022

In the post-epidemic era, there is an endless supply of epidemic prevention products that cover a wide range of public areas. The introduction of such products has eased the tense pattern of virus proliferation in the context of the epidemic, and effectively demonstrated the initiatives implemented by the Chinese people in response to the outbreak. This paper therefore begins with the study of contactless epidemic prevention products, which appear in a form that meets the needs of contemporary society and offers a new mode of living to it. It enriches the measures for epidemic prevention and control. By obtaining satisfaction ratings from the user community, the performance of such products can be understood in time to provide a substantial basis for the subsequent upgrading and optimization or transformation of such products. This study uses the KJ method and questionnaires to construct an index system for contactless epidemic prevention products, grasp users’ needs for epidemic prevention products in real time, classify and identify such products, and select such products as epidemic prevention smart security gates, medical delivery robots, infrared handheld thermometers, thermographic body temperature screening, contactless inductive lift buttons, and contactless medical vending machines. The questionnaire was designed with four dimensions: safety, intelligence, aesthetics and economy. A sample size of 262 was collected through the distribution of questionnaires. We used AHP and entropy weighting methods for the comprehensive evaluation; AHP basically tells us how satisfied most users are with this type of product. The use of the entropy weighting method can achieve objectivity in the weighting process. Combining the two approaches helps to improve the scientific nature of the weighting of the evaluation indexes for contactless and epidemic-proof products. It is clear from the AHP analysis that, firstly, there are differences in the perceptions of the performance of this type of product between different age groups. Secondly, the user group rated the perceived performance of the product presented as high (Bn>0.200), which users can subjectively and directly perceive. Next, the perceived future sustainable economic development of this product category is low (Bn≤0.200), and users place low importance on its economic aspects as an objective additional condition. The entropy method of analysis shows that, under reasonable government control of the market for intelligent products, the safety, intelligence and aesthetic effects of these products are significant (Cm≤0.100); further, the economic presentation of these products has yet to be optimized and upgraded (Cm>0.100).
Multi-Component Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in Japanese Office Workers: A Single-Arm Feasibility Study
Authors: Kim Jihoon , Mizushima Ryoko , Nishida Kotaro , Morimoto Masahiro , Nakata Yoshio
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the feasibility of a multi-component intervention to promote physical activity (PA) among Japanese office workers. It was an 8-week single-arm trial conducted in Japan in 2021, in which 76 employees aged 20 or older, from an insurance company, participated. They received a multi-component PA intervention that comprised individual (lecture, print material, goal setting, and feedback), socio-cultural (team building and supportive atmosphere), physical (poster), and organizational (encouraging message from an executive) strategies. The primary outcome was change in objectively measured moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). A paired t-test was used to compare the changes between weeks 0 and 8. We also conducted a subdomain analysis of PA divided into four domains (working, non-working, commuting working, and remote working). Excluding 26 participants who could not complete valid assessments, the MVPA among participants (n = 50, age 49.6 ± 9.7) significantly increased by +7.3 min/day [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8 to 13.8]. We also identified significant changes in MVPA by +10.0 min/day [95% CI, 3.7 to 16.3] in working days (n = 40), and by +7.1 min/day [95% CI, 0.4 to 13.7] in remote working days (n = 34). We demonstrated that multi-component PA interventions might improve MVPA among Japanese office workers.
Interactive Impacts of Built Environment Factors on Metro Ridership Using GeoDetector: From the Perspective of TOD
Authors: Deng Xingdong , Zhang Ji , Liao Shunyi , Zhong Chujie , Gao Feng , Teng Li
Published: December 2022

TOD (transit-oriented development) is a planning concept that uses public transportation stations as the center of development, and it aims to integrate land use efficiency and transportation planning linkages to encourage the use of public transportation. The impact of metro TOD projects on urban transportation is multifaceted and complex, and the promotion of metro TOD ridership is an important topic in academic circles. However, the theoretical analysis framework of the impact mechanism of metro TOD ridership is still not perfect. Most studies ignore the TOD characteristics of the stations and the interaction between the station area’s land use and the station area functional linkage. Moreover, a few studies have focused on the mechanisms of the impact of TOD built environment factors on the spatial differentiation of station ridership, and the interactive effects of built environment factors. In this paper, the factors of a metro TOD station built environment were selected based on the node–place–linkage model expanded by the 5D principle of TOD, and a solution is provided for the computable transformation of the 5D principle. The GeoDetector method was used to detect the individual and interactive effects of the TOD built environment factors. The results show that the spatial distribution of the metro TOD station area ridership shows a core–peripheral structure and spatial heterogeneity, both on weekdays and weekends. Moreover, the individual effects of each factor can explain up to 49% and 35% of the traffic distribution on weekdays and weekends, respectively. In addition, the two-factor interactive effect has a stronger influence on metro ridership. The interactive effect can explain up to 72% and 77% of the traffic distribution on weekdays and weekends, respectively. Furthermore, the individual effects of each factor exhibited spatial heterogeneity in the local spaces, showing spatial facilitation and inhibition, respectively. Finally, the main policy recommendations are as follows: One of the important ways to guide the development of cities toward polycentric structure is to promote a TOD model in the peripheral areas of the cities. Building more public open spaces in TOD station areas and improving the collection and distribution capacity of the bus transport systems can effectively stimulate the ridership of metro stations.
Tissue-Protective and Anti-Inflammatory Landmark of PRP-Treated Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Secretome for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ragni Enrico , Perucca Orfei Carlotta , De Luca Paola , Libonati Francesca , de Girolamo Laura
Published: December 2022

Bone-marrow-mesenchymal-stromal-cells (BMSCs)- and platelet-rich-plasma (PRP)-based therapies have shown potential for treating osteoarthritis (OA). Recently, the combination of these two approaches was proposed, with results that overcame those observed with the separate treatments, indicating a possible role of PRP in ameliorating BMSCs’ regenerative properties. Since a molecular fingerprint of BMSCs cultivated in the presence of PRP is missing, the aim of this study was to characterize the secretome in terms of soluble factors and extracellular-vesicle (EV)-embedded miRNAs from the perspective of tissues, pathways, and molecules which frame OA pathology. One hundred and five soluble factors and one hundred eighty-four EV-miRNAs were identified in the PRP-treated BMSCs’ secretome, respectively. Several soluble factors were related to the migration of OA-related immune cells, suggesting the capacity of BMSCs to attract lympho-, mono-, and granulocytes and modulate their inflammatory status. Accordingly, several EV-miRNAs had an immunomodulating role at both the single-factor and cell level, together with the ability to target OA-characterizing extracellular-matrix-degrading enzymes and cartilage destruction pathways. Overall, anti-inflammatory and protective signals far exceeded inflammation and destruction cues for cartilage, macrophages, and T cells. This study demonstrates that BMSCs cultivated in the presence of PRP release therapeutic molecules and give molecular ground for the use of this combined and innovative therapy for OA treatment.
Changes in the Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant Properties of Prunus persica Fruits after the Application of a Commercial Biostimulant Based on Seaweed and Yeast Extract
Authors: Mannino Giuseppe , Ricciardi Maddalena , Gatti Noemi , Serio Graziella , Vigliante Ivano , Contartese Valeria , Gentile Carla , Bertea Cinzia M.
Published: December 2022

Plant biostimulants are formulations that are experiencing great success from the perspective of sustainable agriculture. In this work, we evaluated the effect derived from the application of a biostimulant based on algae and yeast extracts (Expando®) on the agronomic yield and nutraceutical profile of two different cultivars (“Sugar Time” and “West Rose”) of Prunus persica (peach). Although, at the agronomic level, significant effects on production yields were not recorded, the biostimulant was able to reduce the ripening time, increase the fruit size, and make the number of harvestable fruits homogeneous. From a nutraceutical point of view, our determinations via spectrophotometric (UV/Vis) and chromatographic (HPLC-DAD-MS/MS) analysis showed that the biostimulant was able to boost the content of bioactive compounds in both the pulp (5.0 L/ha: +17%; 4.0 L/ha: +12%; 2.5 L/ha: +11%) and skin (4.0 L/ha: +38%; 2.5 L/ha: +15%). These changes seem to follow a dose-dependent effect, also producing attractive effects on the antioxidant properties of the fruits harvested from the treated trees. In conclusion, the biostimulant investigated in this work proved to be able to produce more marketable fruit in a shorter time, both from a pomological and a functional point of view.
Effects of Active-Center Reduction of Plant-Type Ferredoxin on Its Structure and Dynamics: Computational Analysis Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Nakayoshi Tomoki , Ohnishi Yusuke , Tanaka Hideaki , Kurisu Genji , Kondo Hiroko X. , Takano Yu
Published: December 2022

“Plant-type” ferredoxins (Fds) in the thylakoid membranes of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria possess a single [2Fe-2S] cluster in active sites and mediate light-induced electron transfer from Photosystem I reaction centers to various Fd-dependent enzymes. Structural knowledge of plant-type Fds is relatively limited to static structures, and the detailed behavior of oxidized and reduced Fds has not been fully elucidated. It is important that the investigations of the effects of active-center reduction on the structures and dynamics for elucidating electron-transfer mechanisms. In this study, model systems of oxidized and reduced Fds were constructed from the high-resolution crystal structure of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Fd1, and three 200 ns molecular dynamics simulations were performed for each system. The force field parameters of the oxidized and reduced active centers were independently obtained using quantum chemical calculations. There were no substantial differences in the global conformations of the oxidized and reduced forms. In contrast, active-center reduction affected the hydrogen-bond network and compactness of the surrounding residues, leading to the increased flexibility of the side chain of Phe61, which is essential for the interaction between Fd and the target protein. These computational results will provide insight into the electron-transfer mechanisms in the Fds.
Gamma Irradiation Processing on 3D PCL Devices—A Preliminary Biocompatibility Assessment
Authors: Guedes Fernando , Branquinho Mariana V. , Biscaia Sara , Alvites Rui D. , Sousa Ana C. , Lopes Bruna , Sousa Patrícia , Rêma Alexandra , Amorim Irina , Faria Fátima , Patrício Tatiana M. , Alves Nuno , Bugalho António , Maurício Ana C.
Published: December 2022

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing applying polycaprolactone (PCL)-based medical devices represents an important branch of tissue engineering, where the sterilization method is a key process for further safe application in vitro and in vivo. In this study, the authors intend to access the most suitable gamma radiation conditions to sterilize PCL-based scaffolds in a preliminary biocompatibility assessment, envisioning future studies for airway obstruction conditions. Three radiation levels were considered, 25 kGy, 35 kGy and 45 kGy, and evaluated as regards their cyto- and biocompatibility. All three groups presented biocompatible properties, indicating an adequate sterility condition. As for the cytocompatibility analysis, devices sterilized with 35 kGy and 45 kGy showed better results, with the 45 kGy showing overall improved outcomes. This study allowed the selection of the most suitable sterilization condition for PCL-based scaffolds, aiming at immediate future assays, by applying 3D-customized printing techniques to specific airway obstruction lesions of the trachea.
Metabolic Effect of Blocking Sodium-Taurocholate Co-Transporting Polypeptide in Hypercholesterolemic Humans with a Twelve-Week Course of Bulevirtide—An Exploratory Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Stoll Felicitas , Seidel-Glätzer Andrea , Burghaus Ina , Göring Oliver , Sauter Max , Rose Peter , Daniel Volker , Haag Mathias , Schwab Matthias , Riffel Johannes , André Florian , Taylor Lenka , Weiss Johanna , Burhenne Jürgen , Cleeves Volker , Haefeli Walter E. , Blank Antje
Published: December 2022

Bile acids (BA) play an important role in cholesterol metabolism and possess further beneficial metabolic effects as signalling molecules. Blocking the hepatocellular uptake of BA via sodium-taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) with the first-in-class drug bulevirtide, we expected to observe a decrease in plasma LDL cholesterol. In this exploratory phase I clinical trial, volunteers with LDL cholesterol > 130 mg/dL but without overt atherosclerotic disease were included. Thirteen participants received bulevirtide 5 mg/d subcutaneously for 12 weeks. The primary aim was to estimate the change in LDL cholesterol after 12 weeks. Secondary endpoints included changes in total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), inflammatory biomarkers, and glucose after 12 weeks. In addition, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) was performed at four time points. BA were measured as biomarkers of the inhibition of hepatocellular uptake. After 12 weeks, LDL cholesterol decreased not statistically significantly by 19.6 mg/dL [−41.8; 2.85] (Hodges–Lehmann estimator with 95% confidence interval). HDL cholesterol showed a significant increase by 5.5 mg/dL [1.00; 10.50]. Lipoprotein(a) decreased by 1.87 mg/dL [−7.65; 0]. Inflammatory biomarkers, glucose, and cardiac function were unchanged. Pre-dose total BA increased nearly five-fold (from 2026 nmol/L ± 2158 (mean ± SD) at baseline to 9922 nmol/L ± 7357 after 12 weeks of treatment). Bulevirtide was generally well tolerated, with most adverse events being administration site reactions. The exploratory nature of the trial with a limited number of participants allows the estimation of potential effects, which are crucial for future pharmacological research on bile acid metabolism in humans.
Dental Composites with Magnesium Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Prevent Secondary Caries in the Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Model
Authors: Tanweer Tahreem , Rana Nosheen Fatima , Saleem Iqra , Shafique Iqra , Alshahrani Sultan M. , Almukhlifi Hanadi A. , Alotaibi Amenah S. , Alshareef Sohad Abdulkaleg , Menaa Farid
Published: December 2022

Antibacterial restorative materials against caries-causing bacteria are highly preferred among high-risk patients, such as the elderly, and patients with metabolic diseases such as diabetes. This study aimed to enhance the antibacterial potential of resin composite with Magnesium-doped Zinc oxide (Mg-doped ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) and to look for their effectiveness in the alloxan-induced diabetic model. Hexagonal Mg-doped ZnO NPs (22.3 nm diameter) were synthesized by co-precipitation method and characterized through ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The Mg-doped ZnO NPs (1, 2.5 and 5% w/w) were then evaluated for antibacterial activity using a closed system in vitro biofilm model. Significant enhancement in the antibacterial properties was observed in composites with 1% Mg-doped ZnO compared to composites with bare ZnO reinforced NPs (Streptococcus mutans, p = 0.0005; Enterococcus faecalis, p = 0.0074, Saliva microcosm, p < 0.0001; Diabetic Saliva microcosm, p < 0.0001). At 1–2.5% Mg-doped ZnO NPs concentration, compressive strength and biocompatibility of composites were not affected. The pH buffering effect was also achieved at these concentrations, hence not allowing optimal conditions for the anaerobic bacteria to grow. Furthermore, composites with Mg-doped ZnO prevented secondary caries formation in the secondary caries model of alloxan-induced diabetes. Therefore, Mg-doped ZnO NPs are highly recommended as an antibacterial agent for resin composites to avoid biofilm and subsequent secondary caries formation in high-risk patients.
Modeling Preeclampsia In Vitro: Polymorphic Variants of STOX1-A/B Genes Can Downregulate CD24 in Trophoblast Cell Lines
Authors: Sammar Marei , Apicella Clara , Altevogt Peter , Meiri Hamutal , Vaiman Daniel
Published: December 2022

CD24 is a mucin-like immunosuppressing glycoprotein whose levels increase during pregnancy and decrease in the syncytio- and cytotrophoblasts in early and preterm preeclampsia. We used two modified cell lines that mimic in vitro features of preeclampsia to identify if this phenomenon could be reproduced. Our model was the immortalized placental-derived BeWo and JEG-3 cell lines that overexpress the STOX1 A/B transcription factor gene that was discovered in familial forms of preeclampsia. BeWo and JEG-3 cells stably transduced with the two major isoforms of STOX1-A/B or by an empty vector (control), were propagated, harvested, and analyzed. CD24 mRNA expression was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase nuclear chain reaction (qRT-PCR). CD24 protein levels were determined by Western blots. In STOX1-A/B overexpressing in BeWo cells, CD24 mRNA was downregulated by 91 and 85%, respectively, compared to the control, and by 30% and 74%, respectively in JEG-3 cells. A 67% and 82% decrease in CD24 protein level was determined by immunoblot in BeWo overexpressing STOX1-A/B, respectively, while the reduction in JEG-3 cells was between 47 and 62%. The immortalized BeWo and JEG-3 cell lines overexpressing STOX1-A/B had reduced CD24. Although both cell lines were affected, BeWo appears to be more susceptible to downregulation by STOX-1 than JEG-3, potentially because of their different cell origin and properties. These results strengthen the in vivo results of reduced CD24 levels found in early and preterm preeclampsia. Accordingly, it implies the importance of the reduced immune tolerance in preeclampsia, which was already demonstrated in vivo in the STOX1-A/B model of preeclampsia, and is now implied in the in vitro STOX-1 model, a subject that warrants further investigations.
Facet-Dependent SERS Activity of Co3O4
Authors: Feng Yibo , Wang Jiaxing , Hou Jixiang , Zhang Xu , Gao Yuhang , Wang Kaiwen
Published: December 2022

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is an ultra-sensitive and rapid technique that is able to significantly enhance the Raman signals of analytes absorbed on functional substrates by orders of magnitude. Recently, semiconductor-based SERS substrates have shown rapid progress due to their great cost-effectiveness, stability and biocompatibility. In this work, three types of faceted Co3O4 microcrystals with dominantly exposed {100} facets, {111} facets and co-exposed {100}-{111} facets (denoted as C-100, C-111 and C-both, respectively) are utilized as SERS substrates to detect the rhodamine 6G (R6G) molecule and nucleic acids (adenine and cytosine). C-100 exhibited the highest SERS sensitivity among these samples, and the lowest detection limits (LODs) to R6G and adenine can reach 10−7 M. First-principles density functional theory (DFT) simulations further unveiled a stronger photoinduced charge transfer (PICT) in C-100 than in C-111. This work provides new insights into the facet-dependent SERS for semiconductor materials.
Effect of Overexpression of γ-Tocopherol Methyltransferase on α-Tocopherol and Fatty Acid Accumulation and Tolerance to Salt Stress during Seed Germination in Brassica napus L.
Authors: Guo Yuan , Li Dong , Liu Tiantian , Liao Meifang , Li Yuxin , Zhang Weitang , Liu Zijin , Chen Mingxun
Published: December 2022

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is an important oil crop and a major source of tocopherols, also known as vitamin E, in human nutrition. Enhancing the quality and composition of fatty acids (FAs) and tocopherols in seeds has long been a target for rapeseed breeding. The gene γ-Tocopherol methyltransferase (γ-TMT) encodes an enzyme catalysing the conversion of γ-tocopherol to α-tocopherol, which has the highest biological activity. However, the genetic basis of γ-TMT in B. napus seeds remains unclear. In the present study, BnaC02.TMT.a, one paralogue of Brassica napus γ-TMT, was isolated from the B. napus cultivar “Zhongshuang11” by nested PCR, and two homozygous transgenic overexpression lines were further characterised. Our results demonstrated that the overexpression of BnaC02.TMT.a mediated an increase in the α- and total tocopherol content in transgenic B. napus seeds. Interestingly, the FA composition was also altered in the transgenic plants; a reduction in the levels of oleic acid and an increase in the levels of linoleic acid and linolenic acid were observed. Consistently, BnaC02.TMT.a promoted the expression of BnFAD2 and BnFAD3, which are involved in the biosynthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids during seed development. In addition, BnaC02.TMT.a enhanced the tolerance to salt stress by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) during seed germination in B. napus. Our results suggest that BnaC02.TMT.a could affect the tocopherol content and FA composition and play a positive role in regulating the rapeseed response to salt stress by modulating the ROS scavenging system. This study broadens our understanding of the function of the Bnγ-TMT gene and provides a novel strategy for genetic engineering in rapeseed breeding.
Synergistic Effects of Ginsenoside Rb3 and Ferruginol in Ischemia-Induced Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Chen Xu , Liu Tiantian , Wang Qiyan , Wang Hui , Xue Siming , Jiang Qianqian , Li Junjun , Li Chun , Wang Wei , Wang Yong
Published: December 2022

Previous research shows that ginsenoside Rb3 (G-Rb3) exhibit significant protective effects on cardiomyocytes and is considered a promising treatment for myocardial infraction (MI). However, how to improve its oral bioavailability and reduce its dosage remains to be studied. Previous studies suggest that Ferruginol (FGL) may have synergistic effects with G-Rb3. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be explored. In this study, left anterior descending branch (LAD) coronary artery ligation or oxygen-glucose deprivation-reperfusion (OGD/R) were used to establish MI models in vivo and in vitro. Subsequently, the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of G-Rb3-FGL were explored by in vitro studies. The results showed that the G-Rb3-FGL co-treatment improved heart functions better than the G-Rb3 treatment alone in MI mice models. Meanwhile, the G-Rb3-FGL co-treatment can upregulate fatty acids oxidation (FAO) and suppress oxidative stress in the heart tissues of MI mice. In vitro studies demonstrated that the synergistic effect of G-Rb3-FGL on FAO, oxidation and inflammation was abolished by RXRα inhibitor HX531 in the H9C2 cell model. In summary, we revealed that G-Rb3 and FGL have a synergistic effect against MI. They protected cardiomyocytes by promoting FAO, inhibiting oxidative stress, and suppressing inflammation through the RXRα-Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Systematic Analysis of BELL Family Genes in Zizania latifolia and Functional Identification of ZlqSH1a/b in Rice Seed Shattering
Authors: Xie Yan-Ning , Yang Ting , Zhang Bin-Tao , Qi Qian-Qian , Ding An-Ming , Shang Lian-Guang , Zhang Yu , Qian Qian , Zhang Zhong-Feng , Yan Ning
Published: December 2022

The loss of seed shattering is an important event in crop domestication, and elucidating the genetic mechanisms underlying seed shattering can help reduce yield loss during crop production. This study is the first to systematically identify and analyse the BELL family of transcription factor-encoding genes in Chinese wild rice (Zizania latifolia). ZlqSH1a (Zla04G033720) and ZlqSH1b (Zla02G027130) were identified as key candidate genes involved in seed shattering in Z. latifolia. These genes were involved in regulating the development of the abscission layer (AL) and were located in the nucleus of the cell. Over-expression of ZlqSH1a and ZlqSH1b resulted in a complete AL between the grain and pedicel and significantly enhanced seed shattering after grain maturation in rice. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that 172 genes were differentially expressed between the wild type (WT) and the two transgenic (ZlqSH1a and ZlqSH1b over-expressing) plants. Three of the differentially expressed genes related to seed shattering were validated using qRT-PCR analysis. These results indicate that ZlqSH1a and ZlqSH1b are involved in AL development in rice grains, thereby regulating seed shattering. Our results could facilitate the genetic improvement of seed-shattering behaviour in Z. latifolia and other cereal crops.
Human Umbilical Cord-Based Therapeutics: Stem Cells and Blood Derivatives for Female Reproductive Medicine
Authors: Rodríguez-Eguren Adolfo , Gómez-Álvarez María , Francés-Herrero Emilio , Romeu Mónica , Ferrero Hortensia , Seli Emre , Cervelló Irene
Published: December 2022

There are several conditions that lead to female infertility, where traditional or conventional treatments have limited efficacy. In these challenging scenarios, stem cell (SC) therapies have been investigated as alternative treatment strategies. Human umbilical cord (hUC) mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSC), along with their secreted paracrine factors, extracts, and biomolecules, have emerged as promising therapeutic alternatives in regenerative medicine, due to their remarkable potential to promote anti-inflammatory and regenerative processes more efficiently than other autologous treatments. Similarly, hUC blood derivatives, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or isolated plasma elements, such as growth factors, have also demonstrated potential. This literature review aims to summarize the recent therapeutic advances based on hUC-MSCs, hUC blood, and/or other plasma derivatives (e.g., extracellular vesicles, hUC-PRP, and growth factors) in the context of female reproductive medicine. We present an in-depth analysis of the principal molecules mediating tissue regeneration, compiling the application of these therapies in preclinical and clinical studies, within the context of the human reproductive tract. Despite the recent advances in bioengineering strategies that sustain delivery and amplify the scope of the therapeutic benefits, further clinical trials are required prior to the wide implementation of these alternative therapies in reproductive medicine.