bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Front-Face Fluorescence Spectroscopy and Biochemical Analysis of Honey to Assess a Marker for the Level of Varroa destructor Infestation of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Colonies
Authors: Stanković Mira , Prokopijević Miloš , Šikoparija Branko , Nedić Nebojša , Andrić Filip , Polović Natalija , Natić Maja , Radotić Ksenija
Published: February 2023

Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite responsible for the loss of honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies. This study aimed to find a promising marker in honey for the bee colony infestation level using fluorescence spectroscopy and biochemical analyses. We examined whether the parameters of the honey samples’ fluorescence spectra and biochemical parameters, both related to proteins and phenolics, may be connected with the level of honey bee colonies’ infestation. The infestation level was highly positively correlated with the catalase activity in honey (r = 0.936). Additionally, the infestation level was positively correlated with the phenolic spectral component (r = 0.656), which was tentatively related to the phenolics in honey. No correlation was found between the diastase activity in honey and the colonies’ infestation level. The results indicate that the catalase activity in honey and the PFC1 spectral component may be reliable markers for the V. destructor infestation level of the colonies. The obtained data may be related to the honey yield obtained from the apiaries.
In Vitro Assessment Methods for Antidiabetic Peptides from Legumes: A Review
Authors: Rahmi Alia , Arcot Jayashree
Published: February 2023

Almost 65% of the human protein supply in the world originates from plants, with legumes being one of the highest contributors, comprising between 20 and 40% of the protein supply. Bioactive peptides from various food sources including legumes have been reported to show efficacy in modulating starch digestion and glucose absorption. This paper will provide a comprehensive review on recent in vitro studies that have been performed on leguminous antidiabetic peptides, focusing on the α-amylase inhibitor, α-glucosidase inhibitor, and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitor. Variations in legume cultivars and methods affect the release of peptides. Different methods have been used, such as in sample preparation, including fermentation (t, T), germination (t), and pre-cooking; in protein extraction, alkaline extraction, isoelectric precipitation, phosphate buffer extraction, and water extraction; in protein hydrolysis enzyme types and combination, enzyme substrate ratio, pH, and time; and in enzyme inhibitory assays, positive control type and concentration, inhibitor or peptide concentration, and the unit of inhibitory activity. The categorization of the relative scale of inhibitory activities among legume samples becomes difficult because of these method differences. Peptide sequences in samples were identified by means of HPLC/MS. Software and online tools were used in bioactivity prediction and computational modelling. The identification of the types and locations of chemical interactions between the inhibitor peptides and enzymes and the type of enzyme inhibition were achieved through computational modelling and enzyme kinetic studies.
Rapid and Simultaneous Detection of Aflatoxin B1, Zearalenone, and T-2 Toxin in Medicinal and Edible Food Using Gold Immunochromatographic Test Strip
Authors: Zhang Jiaying , Li Xiujiang , Xie Jianhua , Huang Zhibing
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Medicinal and edible food and traditional Chinese medicine have been used to treat various diseases. However, their safety has not been thoroughly assessed. (2) Methods: An immunochromatographic test strip (ICS) was used for the first time to screen some mycotoxins, including aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), zearalenone (ZEN), and T-2 toxin, in medicinal and edible food and traditional Chinese medicine. Antibody/nano-gold particle coupling was used with the prepared ICS, and the pH, monoclonal antibody concentration, and antigen amount were optimized. The extraction sample solution was diluted 10 times with phosphate-buffered saline containing 0.5% Tween-20 and 0.05% sodium dodecyl sulfate to remove the complex matrix in medicinal and edible food. (3) Results: Under optimal conditions, the sensitivities of the developed ICS for AFB1, ZEN, and T-2 were 0.5, 5.0, and 5.0 ng/mL, respectively. Among the 30 medicinal and edible food samples tested, two samples (both of sand jujube kernels) were positive, and the results were verified by high-performance liquid chromatography and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and were consistent with the ICS test results. (4) Conclusions: The ICS could be used for rapid screening and simultaneous detection of mycotoxins at medicinal and edible food storage facilities.
Bioactive Compounds of Underground Valerian Extracts and Their Effect on Inhibiting Metabolic Syndrome-Related Enzymes Activities
Authors: Wu Cheng-Rong , Lee Shih-Yu , Chen Chien-Hung , Lin Sheng-Dun
Published: February 2023

Extractions of the underground parts of valerian were prepared with water and ethanol (25–95%) at 25–75 °C. Extraction yields, bioactive compounds, and the 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability of lyophilized extracts were determined. The inhibitory effects of the extracts, valerenic acid derivatives and phenolic acids, on metabolic syndrome (MS)-related enzymes activities were further examined. Both roots and rhizomes extracted with 95% ethanol at 75 °C had the highest levels of bioactive compounds. The antioxidant capacity and inhibition of MS-related enzymes of the roots extract were better than those of the rhizomes. The roots extract more strongly inhibited pancreatic lipase (inhibition of 50% of enzyme activity (IC50), 17.59 mg/mL), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, IC50, 3.75 mg/mL), α-amylase (IC50, 12.53 mg/mL), and α-glucosidase (IC50, 15.40 mg/mL). These four phenolic acids inhibited the activity of MS-related enzymes. Valerenic acid demonstrated more of an inhibitory ability for ACE (IC50, 0.225 mg/mL, except for caffeic acid) and α-glucosidase (IC50, 0.617 mg/mL) than phenolic acids. Valerian extract inhibited key enzyme activities that were associated with obesity (lipase), hypertension (ACE), and type 2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase), suggesting that it is a potential candidate for the development of functional supplements.
UHPLC-MS Phenolic Fingerprinting, Aorta Endothelium Relaxation Effect, Antioxidant, and Enzyme Inhibition Activities of Azara dentata Ruiz & Pav Berries
Authors: Ramos Lucia , Palacios Javier , Barrientos Ruth , Gómez Jessica , Castagnini Juan , Barba Francisco , Tapia Alejandro , Paredes Adrián , Cifuentes Fredi , Simirgiotis Mario
Published: February 2023

Azara dentata Ruiz & Pav. is a small Chilean native plant from Patagonia, a producer of small white reddish berries. For the first time, the proximal analysis of the fruits, phenolic fingerprinting, the antioxidant activity, and the enzymatic inhibition and relaxation effects in rat aorta induced by the ethanolic extract of these fruits were investigated. The proximal composition and the mineral (Ca: 2434 ± 40 mg/kg; Mg: 702 ± 13 mg/kg; Fe: 117.1 ± 1.6 mg/kg; Zn: 16.1 ± 0.4 mg/kg) and heavy metal (As: 121 ± 11 µg/kg; Cd: 152 ± 5 µg/kg; Hg: 7.7 ± 1.3 µg/kg; Pb 294 ± 4 µg/kg) contents were analyzed. Anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and coumarins were identified using UHPLC-PDA-QTOF-MS. The ethanolic extracts showed a total phenolic content of 23.50 ± 0.93 mg GAE/g extract. In addition, the antioxidant activity was assessed using both DPPH and TEAC (28.64 ± 1.87 and 34.72 ± 2.33 mg Trolox/g of dry fruit, respectively), FRAP (25.32 ± 0.23 mg Trolox equivalent/g dry fruit), and ORAC (64.95 ± 1.23 mg Trolox equivalents/g dry fruit). The inhibition of enzymatic activities (acetylcholinesterase IC50: 2.87 + 0.23 µg extract/mL, butyrylcholinesterase IC50: 6.73 + 0.07 µg extract/mL, amylase IC50: 5.6 ± 0.0 µg extract/mL, lipase IC50: 30.8 ± 0.0 µg extract/mL, and tyrosinase IC50: 9.25 ± 0.15 µg extract/mL) was also assessed. The extract showed 50–60% relaxation in rat aorta (intact), mediated thorough the release of endothelial nitric oxide. Our results suggest that A. dentata is a good source of compounds with the capacity to inhibit important enzymes, can be hypotensive, and can thus have good potentiality as supplements in the amelioration of neurodegenerative diseases and could also have potential to be used to develop new functional foods. The study highlights the benefits of these neglected small fruits and could boost their consumption.
Investigation of Consequences of High-Voltage Pulsed Electric Field and TGase Cross-Linking on the Physicochemical and Rheological Properties of Pleurotus eryngii Protein
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Feng Yan , Cheng Qianying , Liu Jingyu , Yun Shaojun , Cheng Yanfen , Cheng Feier , Cao Jinling , Feng Cuiping
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of high-voltage pulsed electric fields (HPEF) and transglutaminase (TGase) cross-clinking on the physicochemical and rheological properties of Pleurotus eryngii protein (PEP). The results showed that HPEF increased α-helixes and β-turns but decreased β-folds. A HPEF at 1500 V/cm maximized the free sulfhydryl content and solubility of PEP. TGase formed high-molecular-weight polymers in PEP. TGase at 0.25% maximized the free sulfhydryl groups, particle size, and solubility; shifted the maximum absorption wavelength from 343 nm to 339 nm and 341 nm; increased α-helixes and β-turns and decreased β-folds; and showed better rheological properties. Compared with TGase cross-linking, HPEF-1500 V/cm and 1% TGase significantly reduced the free sulfhydryl groups, particle size, and solubility, produced more uniform network structures, and improved the rheological properties. These results suggest that HPEF can increase the cross-linking of TGase and improve rheological properties of TGase-cross-linked PEP by affecting the physicochemical properties.
The Effect of Ultrasound Treatment in Winemaking on the Volatile Compounds of Aglianico, Nero di Troia, and Primitivo Red Wines
Authors: Natrella Giuseppe , Noviello Mirella , Trani Antonio , Faccia Michele , Gambacorta Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

An ultrasound (US) treatment was applied during the vinification of three different red grape cultivars with the aim of assessing the impact on the volatile profile of the wines. A robust solid phase micro extraction coupled with gas chromatography mass-spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) method was developed in order to fix the best parameters for optimizing the volatile organic compound (VOC) recovery. A 15% NaCl solution was added to the samples to increase the salting-out effect, the time/temperature were appropriately selected, and the matrix effect was evaluated by comparing synthetic and real matrices. In addition, external calibration curves were used to quantify the single volatile compounds. The analyses of the wine samples at 7 and 14 months of aging revealed that US exerted the highest effect on Aglianico, which had the highest amount of total VOC. US Nero di Troia showed similar results after 14 months of aging, while Primitivo was not affected by the treatment. Nevertheless, from discriminant analysis, a clear separation was observed between the control and ultrasound-treated wines for all three cultivars, with ethyl decanoate, ethyl isopentyl succinate, and butyric acid having the highest discriminant coefficients. In conclusion, the obtained results indicated that the effect of US treatment on the VOC profile of the wine considered in the experimentation is cultivar-dependent.
The Closure Relations in High-Energy Gamma-ray Bursts Detected by Fermi-LAT
Authors: Dainotti Maria , Levine Delina , Fraija Nissim , Warren Donald , Veres Peter , Sourav Shashwat
Published: February 2023

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are brief, intense pulses of high-energy emission associated with extreme astrophysical phenomena, e.g. the death of massive stars or the coalescence of compact objects. They have been observed at high energies by the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT), which detects GRBs in the 20 MeV–300 GeV energy range. The Fermi-LAT Second GRB Catalog (2FLGC) presents information on 186 GRBs observed from 2008 to 2018. We consider the GRBs that have been fitted in the 2FLGC with a broken (21 GRBs) or simple power law (65 GRBs), compiling a total sample of 86 GRBs. We analyze the relationship between the spectral and temporal indices using closure relations according to the synchrotron forward-shock model evolving in stratified environments (n∝r−k). We find that the model without energy injection is preferred over the one with energy injection. There is a clear preference for the cooling conditions ν> max{νc,νm} and νm<ν<νc (where νc and νm are the cooling and characteristic frequencies, namely the frequency at the spectral break). Within these cooling conditions, density profiles r−k with values of k=1.5 and 2 generally have a higher rate of occurrence when considering relations with and without energy injection.
The Fully Mediating Role of Psychological Resilience between Self-Efficacy and Mental Health: Evidence from the Study of College Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Qin Lu-Lu , Peng Jin , Shu Man-Ling , Liao Xin-Yi , Gong Hong-Jie , Luo Bang-An , Chen Yi-Wei
Published: February 2023

Student populations are susceptible to the COVID-19 pandemic and may easy develop mental health problems related to their immaturity of psychological development and fluctuation of mood. However, little has been known about the effects of the pandemic on college students and the associated influencing factors. This study aimed to explore the role of psychological resilience as a mediator between general self-efficacy and mental health. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 480 Chinese college students from 12 universities in Hunan province of China. The participants responded anonymously to the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), the Chinese version of the Resilience Scale for College Students (RSCS), and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Hierarchical linear regression and structural equation modeling were used in this study. The average of GSES and RSCS scores of college students were 25.00 ± 4.68 and 137.97 ± 15.50, which were at a medium level. The average score for the GHQ-12 was 1.59 ± 1.59, and 22.03% of the college students scored ≥ 3 on the GHQ-12, indicating that they were at risk of developing mental disorders. According to the analyses of mediation effect, psychological resilience played a fully mediating role in the relationship between general self-efficacy and mental health. In conclusion, Chinese college students were at high risk of developing mental disorders during the COVID-19 period. General self-efficacy was positively associated with psychological resilience, and psychological resilience played a fully mediating role in the relationship between general self-efficacy and mental health. Future studies and interventions should aim to promote psychological resilience and general self-efficacy.
Type of Family Support for Infant and Toddler Care That Relieves Parenting Stress: Does the Number of Children Matter?
Authors: Hong Xiumin , Zhu Wenting , Zhao Sijie
Published: February 2023

The present study aimed to investigate the status and relationships between family support for infant and toddler care and parenting stress, and to explore differences related to the number of children in the families. We conducted a survey among 13,390 Chinese parents who were randomly sampled from six provinces of China. Descriptive analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, and regression analysis indicated that (1) current family support for infant and toddler care in China is insufficient; (2) most Chinese parents reported moderate parenting stress, with the highest scores given for parental distress, followed by difficult child, and parent–child dysfunctional interaction; (3) the larger the number of children in the family, the less the family support for infant and toddler care, the greater the parenting stress; (4) there was a difference between the effects of family support for infant and toddler care on relieving parenting stress among families with different numbers of children. These findings indicate that different types of family support for infant and toddler care should be provided for families with different numbers of children, to ease parenting stress and promote the implementation of the government’s current fertility policy.
Epidemiology of Kidney Stones
Authors: Stamatelou Kyriaki , Goldfarb David S.
Published: February 2023

In the past two decades, major breakthroughs that improve our understanding of the pathophysiology and therapy of kidney stones (KS) have been lacking. The disease continues to be challenging for patients, physicians, and healthcare systems alike. In this context, epidemiological studies are striving to elucidate the worldwide changes in the patterns and the burden of the disease and identify modifiable risk factors that contribute to the development of kidney stones. Our expanding knowledge of the epidemiology of kidney stones is of paramount importance and largely upgrades the modern management of the disease. In this paper, we review the variables affecting prevalence and incidence, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, occupation, climate, geography, systemic diseases, diabetes, vascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and dietary risk factors relevant to kidney stones.
The Association of Smoking with Contact Dermatitis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alotaibi Ghadah F. , Alsalman Hanan H. , Alhallaf Rama A. , Ahmad Rayan A. , Alshareef Hashem A. , Muammar Jumanah Meshari , Alsaif Fahad M. , Alotaibi Felwah F. , Balaha Mohamed F. , Ahmed Nehad J. , Khafagy El-Sayed , Alotaibi Hadil F. , Alshammari Rahaf , Fatani Sarah
Published: February 2023

Contact dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with a highly variable prevalence worldwide. Smoking plays a crucial role in mediating inflammatory skin conditions such as contact dermatitis. The present study aimed to investigate the association between smoking status and contact dermatitis in the Saudi population. The patients in the present study were individuals older than 18 years who were diagnosed with contact dermatitis and received a patch test at the Department of Dermatology of King Saud University Medical City from March 2003 through February 2019. All patients were interviewed by phone to complete a specific pre-designed questionnaire to assess tobacco use or exposure history. The total number of enrolled patients in the study was 308 (91 males and 217 females), all with contact dermatitis. Data from the present study suggest that the prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis in smokers may be less than that in non-smokers. Moreover, the prevalence of irritant contact dermatitis in smokers is more significant than in non-smokers. Finally, left-hand contact dermatitis is significantly associated with smoking. Therefore, there is a strong association between smoking and irritant contact dermatitis, especially in the Saudi population, regarding the left hand. Further epidemiologic studies are needed to further explore the role of smoking in the occurrence of contact dermatitis and to explore the possible mechanisms.
Air Pollution and Its Potential Consequences for Tourism and Career Development from Students’ Perspective: A Case Study of the Gdańsk Agglomeration in Poland
Authors: Bogalecka Magdalena , Grobelna Aleksandra
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this study is to present the state and variability of air pollution and its potential consequences for the intensity of tourism traffic based on the example of the Gdańsk agglomeration as a very popular tourist destination of Northern Poland. Specifically, the study seeks to answer the question how a future, qualified tourism workforce, such as tourism and hospitality (T&H) students from higher educational institutions (HEIs) located in the investigated area, perceive the problem of air pollution and whether their perception may have a potential impact on their attitudes and career aspirations towards working in the T&H industry after graduation. In this study, both a desk-research method and a questionnaire were used. The main results reveal that although the intensified tourist traffic does not coincide with high concentrations of pollutants and a poor quality of air, it cannot be clearly stated that tourists choose a destination being guided by the condition of ambient air pollution. The findings also show that T&H students are strongly aware of the air pollution problems and its negative consequences for the perceived attractiveness of a tourist destination and its labour market. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to analyse the relationships between air pollution and students’ perceptions of its consequences for tourism and for career development in the tourism industry, which is highly dependent on the environmental quality.
Estimation of Ambient Dose Equivalent Rate Distribution Map Using Walking Survey Technique in Hirosaki City, Aomori, Japan
Authors: Poltabtim Worawat , Musikawan Saowarak , Thumwong Arkarapol , Omori Yasutaka , Kranrod Chutima , Hosoda Masahiro , Saenboonruang Kiadtisak , Tokonami Shinji
Published: February 2023

At present, much emphasis is placed on the health risks associated with radioactivity present in the environment, especially since the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. In this study, a walking survey was conducted in Hirosaki City using a NaI(Tl) scintillation spectrometer to estimate and map the distribution of the ambient dose equivalent rate to monitor the radiological safety of the general public in Hirosaki City, where many nuclear facilities are located nearby. The average (±standard deviation) ambient dose equivalent rate was 0.056 ± 0.020 µSv h−1. By comparison with the measurement data, it was found that the values of 85% of the data obtained using the walking survey technique deviated within ±20% relative to those obtained by spot measurements. Furthermore, the distribution of dose rates obtained in the nighttime survey was not significantly different from those obtained in the daytime.
Postoperative Pain after Different Transscleral Laser Cyclophotocoagulation Procedures
Authors: Falb Thomas , Heidinger Astrid , Wallisch Fabian , Tomasic Hrvoje , Ivastinovic Domagoj , Lindner Marlene , Tiefenthaller Franz , Keintzel Lukas , Hoeflechner Lukas , Riedl Regina , Hommer Anton , Lindner Ewald
Published: February 2023

Background: As the number of surgical options in glaucoma treatment is continuously rising, evidence regarding distinctive features of these surgeries is becoming more and more important for clinicians to choose the right surgical treatment for each individual patient. Methods: For this retrospective data analysis, we included glaucoma patients treated with either continuous wave (CW-TSCPC) or micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) in an inpatient setting. Pain intensity was assessed using a numeric rating scale (NRS) ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain) during hospitalization. CW-TSCPC was performed using OcuLight® Six (IRIDEX Corporation, Mountain View, CA, USA) and MP-TSCPC was performed using the IRIDEX® Cyclo-G6 System (IRIDEX Corporation, Mountain View, CA, USA). Results: A total of 243 consecutive cases of TSCPC were included. Of these, 144 (59.26%) were treated with CW-TSCPC and 99 (40.74%) with MP-TSCPC. Using the univariable model, the risk for postoperative pain was observed to be lower in MP-TSCPC compared with CW-TSCPC (unadjusted: OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.24–0.84, p = 0.017), but this did not hold using the multivariable model (adjusted: OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.27–1.02, p = 0.056). Simultaneously conducted anterior retinal cryotherapy was associated with a higher risk for postoperative pain (OR 4.41, 95% CI 2.01–9.69, p < 0.001). Conclusions: We found that the occurrence of postoperative pain was not different in CW-TSCPC compared with MP-TSCPC in a multivariable model. In cases of simultaneous anterior retinal cryotherapy, the risk for postoperative pain was significantly higher.
Bioaccumulation Behavior and Human Health Risk of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in a Freshwater Food Web of Typical Shallow Lake, Yangtze River Delta
Authors: Li Bei , Wang Juanheng , Hu Guocheng , Liu Xiaolin , Yu Yunjiang , Cai Dan , Ding Ping , Li Xin , Zhang Lijuan , Xiang Chongdan
Published: February 2023

Background: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been commonly found in aquatic ecosystems. Many studies have elucidated the bioaccumulation and biomagnification of PBDEs in seas and lakes, yet few have comprehensively evaluated the bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and health risks of PBDEs in shallow lakes, and there is still limited knowledge of the overall effects of biomagnification and the health risks to aquatic organisms. Methods: In this study, a total of 154 samples of wild aquatic organism and environmental samples were collected from typical shallow lakes located in the Yangtze River Delta in January 2020. The concentrations of PBDEs were determined by an Agilent 7890 gas chromatograph coupled and an Agilent 5795 mass spectrometer (GC/MS) and the bioaccumulation behavior of PBDEs was evaluated in 23 aquatic organisms collected from typical shallow lakes of the Yangtze River Delta. Furthermore, their effects on human health were evaluated by the estimated daily intake (EDI), noncarcinogenic risk, and carcinogenic risk. Results: The concentrations of ΣPBDE (defined as the sum of BDE-28, -47, -100, -99, -153, -154, -183, and -209) in biota samples ranged from 2.36 to 85.81 ng/g lipid weight. BDE-209, BDE-153 and BDE-47 were the major PBDE congeners. The factors affecting the concentration of PBDEs in aquatic organisms included dietary habits, species, and the metabolic debromination ability of the PBDE congeners. BDE-209 and BDE-47 were the strongest bioaccumulative PBDE congeners in aquatic organisms. Additionally, except for BDE-99, BDE-153 and BDE-154, the trophic magnification factor (TMF) values of PBDE congeners were significantly higher than 1. Moreover, the log Kow played a significant role in the biomagnification ability of PBDE congeners. The noncarcinogenic risk of PBDE congeners and carcinogenic risk of BDE-209 from aquatic products were lower than the thresholds. Conclusions: PBDE congeners were bioaccumulated and biomagnified to varying degrees in aquatic organisms from typical shallow lakes. Both the noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic risks assessment of edible aquatic products indicated that none of the PBDE congeners pose health risks to the localite. This study will provide a basis for a comprehensive assessment of PBDEs in aquatic ecosystems in shallow lakes and for environmental prevention measures for decision-makers.
Motivating Individuals to Take Responsible Ocean Action: The Mediatory Effects of Attitude toward the Ocean
Authors: Liu Guang-Ying , Lin Yi-Chen , Yeh Ting-Kuang
Published: February 2023

When considering how to improve public literacy and behavior related to specific themes, top priority is usually given to strategies that enhance relevant knowledge. Fostering attitude comes later. Understanding the mechanisms of behavior may help us develop better policy and educational strategies. However, how knowledge and attitude impact behavior is still under investigation. The aim of this study is to explore the relationships among ocean knowledge, attitude toward the ocean, and the intention to behave responsibly in the marine setting. Specifically, we investigated a potential mediation mechanism by recruiting a total of 266 participants, whose ocean knowledge, attitudes toward the ocean, and intention to behave responsibly were evaluated using questionnaires. The results indicate that a person’s attitude toward the ocean may indeed be a mediating factor between ocean knowledge and their intention to show positive marine behavior. In order to engage people in responsible ocean behavior, other forms of assistance from marine policy and education are recommended. Additionally, it would be of interest for future studies to investigate the effects of attitude and attitude-related knowledge in the development of ocean actions.
Exploring Strategies for Developing Enabling Environments for People with Chronic Heart Disease: An Ethnographic Study Protocol
Authors: Loizeau Valérie , Kilpatrick Kelley , Bertrand Dominique Pougheon , Rothan-Tondeur Monique
Published: February 2023

The impact of chronic diseases on people’s daily lives and the exponential number of people affected is a major public health issue. The consequences on individuals and their families is significant, particularly in terms of quality of life. In the literature, this phenomenon is well described in terms of care policy and cost. Although there is a link between a supportive environment and empowerment, there is little literature describing a supportive environment and the daily lives of people living with cardiovascular disease. The objectives of this study are to identify the strategies people use to develop an enabling environment. It will be a qualitative ethnographic study that will address both human behavior and the notion of culture in a broad sense. In the context of this study, an orientation towards critical ethnography will be considered for its particular interest in vulnerable people and in the power relations that may exist in the socio-cultural system. Data will be collected directly in people’s homes through observations and interviews with 10 people with cardiovascular disease. For each person, the data collection will take place over three days and will represent approximately 210 h of observation. This protocol was registered in the Research Register on 30 June 2021 and its number is 6933. This study will explore strategies for developing an enabling environment for people living with heart disease and eventually provide recommendations for nursing practices in terms of support.
Association between Poverty and Refraining from Seeking Medical Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Japan: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Obikane Erika , Nishi Daisuke , Ozaki Akihiko , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Kawakami Norito , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: February 2023

This limited study examined how low household income affected avoidant behaviors to seek medical care during the pandemic. We investigated an association between household income below the relative poverty line and refraining from seeking medical care (RSMC) in a longitudinal study during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted an analysis of a population-based internet cohort in Japan. Individuals aged 20 to 79 years old living in Japan participated in the internet surveys between 2020 and 2021. The primary outcome was the RSMC of regular visits and new symptoms in 2021. A total of 19,672 individuals were included in the analysis. Household income below the relative poverty line in 2020 was significantly associated with refraining from seeking regular medical visits for men and women (for men, odds ratio: 1.28; confidence interval: 1.19, 1.83; for women, odds ratio: 1.42; confidence interval: 1.14, 1.82) in 2021, after accounting for RSMC in 2020. Relative poverty in 2020 was also associated with the RSMC of new symptoms among men (for males, odds ratio: 1.32; confidence interval: 1.05, 1.66) in 2021 after adjusting for covariates. The study suggested the need to alleviate the financial burden of vulnerable people seeking medical care and advocate for making necessary medical visits, even in a pandemic.
Analyzing the Relationship between the Features of Direct Real Estate Assets and Their Corresponding Australian—REITs
Authors: Li Xinyi , Zhang Yuhong , Zhang Xing , Gu Runtang
Published: February 2023

This study investigated the relationship between a sector-specific Australian Real Estate Investment Trust (A-REITs) and the underlying property assets in its property portfolio. The existing studies have assessed the connectedness/correlation between the A-REITs market and a variety of other asset markets, including the overall stock, bond, and direct real estate markets. This study applied regression analysis methods and discovered that there exists a certain degree of linear correlation between the underlying property assets and the return of the subject A-REITs. The most significant variable is the occupancy of the offices. The higher the occupancy is, the better the dividend can be. Features of the A-REITs also affect the dividend outcomes, specifically, the total portfolio market value and the capitalization rate. This suggests that the annual valuation outcomes show a positive relation with the performance of the A-REITs.
Bio-Fabrication of ZnONPs from Alkalescent Nucleoside Antibiotic to Control Rice Blast: Impact on Pathogen (Magnaporthe grisea) and Host (Rice)
Authors: Ahsan Taswar , Li Bingxue , Wu Yuanhua , Li Zijing
Published: February 2023

In the traditional method of the bio-fabrication of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), bacterial strains face metal toxicity and antimicrobial action. In the current study, an alkalescent nucleoside antibiotic was mixed with zinc hexanitrate to fabricate the ZnONPs. An integrated approach of DIAION HP-20 macroporous resin and sephadex LH-20 column chromatography was adopted to separate and purify alkalescent nucleoside AN03 from Streptomyces koyanogensis. Alkalescent nucleoside was confirmed by the Doskochilova solvent system. The bio-fabricated ZnONPs were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. The XRD spectrum and the TEM images confirmed the crystallinity and the spherical shape of the ZnONPs with an average size of 22 nm. FTIR analysis showed the presence of functional groups, which confirmed the bio-fabrication of ZnONPs from alkalescent nucleoside ANO3. In-vitro studies showed that 75 μg/mL of ZnONPs had a strong inhibitory zone (28.39 mm) against the Magnaporthe grisea and significantly suppressed the spore germination. SEM and TEM observations respectively revealed that ZnONPs caused breakage in hyphae and could damage the cells of M. grisea. Greenhouse experiments revealed that the foliar spray of ZnONPs could control the rice blast disease by 98%. Results also revealed that ZnONPs had positive effects on the growth of the rice plant. The present study suggested that ZnONPs could be fabricated from microbe-derived nucleoside antibiotics without facing the problems of metal toxicity and antimicrobial action, thus overcoming the problem of pathogen resistance. This could be a potent biocontrol agent in rice blast disease management.
MEK Is a Potential Indirect Target in Subtypes of Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Gurbi Bianka , Brauswetter Diána , Pénzes Kinga , Varga Attila , Krenács Tibor , Dános Kornél , Birtalan Ede , Tamás László , Csala Miklós
Published: February 2023

The poor prognosis of head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is partly due to the lack of reliable prognostic and predictive markers. The Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway is often activated by overexpressed epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and stimulates the progression of HNSCCs. Our research was performed on three human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative HNSCC-cell lines: Detroit 562, FaDu and SCC25. Changes in cell viability upon EGFR and/or MEK inhibitors were measured by the MTT method. The protein-expression and phosphorylation profiles of the EGFR-initiated signaling pathways were assessed using Western-blot analysis. The EGFR expression and pY1068-EGFR levels were also studied in the patient-derived HNSCC samples. We found significant differences between the sensitivity of the tumor-cell lines used. The SCC25 line was found to be the most sensitive to the MEK inhibitors, possibly due to the lack of feedback Akt activation through EGFR. By contrast, this feedback activation had an important role in the FaDu cells. The observed insensitivity of the Detroit 562 cells to the MEK inhibitors might have been caused by their PIK3CA mutation. Among HNSCC cell lines, EGFR-initiated signaling pathways are particularly versatile. An ERK/EGFR feedback loop can lead to Akt-pathway activation upon MEK inhibition, and it is related not only to increased amounts of EGFR but also to the elevation of pY1068-EGFR levels. The presence of this mechanism may justify the combined application of EGFR and MEK inhibitors.
Estimation of an Image Biomarker for Distant Recurrence Prediction in NSCLC Using Proliferation-Related Genes
Authors: Ju Hye Min , Kim Byung-Chul , Lim Ilhan , Byun Byung Hyun , Woo Sang-Keun
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to identify a distant-recurrence image biomarker in NSCLC by investigating correlations between heterogeneity functional gene expression and fluorine-18-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) image features of NSCLC patients. RNA-sequencing data and 18F-FDG PET images of 53 patients with NSCLC (19 with distant recurrence and 34 without recurrence) from The Cancer Imaging Archive and The Cancer Genome Atlas Program databases were used in a combined analysis. Weighted correlation network analysis was performed to identify gene groups related to distant recurrence. Genes were selected for functions related to distant recurrence. In total, 47 image features were extracted from PET images as radiomics. The relationship between gene expression and image features was estimated using a hypergeometric distribution test with the Pearson correlation method. The distant recurrence prediction model was validated by a random forest (RF) algorithm using image texture features and related gene expression. In total, 37 gene modules were identified by gene-expression pattern with weighted gene co-expression network analysis. The gene modules with the highest significance were selected (p-value < 0.05). Nine genes with high protein–protein interaction and area under the curve (AUC) were identified as hub genes involved in the proliferation function, which plays an important role in distant recurrence of cancer. Four image features (GLRLM_SRHGE, GLRLM_HGRE, SUVmean, and GLZLM_GLNU) and six genes were identified to be correlated (p-value < 0.1). AUCs (accuracy: 0.59, AUC: 0.729) from the 47 image texture features and AUCs (accuracy: 0.767, AUC: 0.808) from hub genes were calculated using the RF algorithm. AUCs (accuracy: 0.783, AUC: 0.912) from the four image texture features and six correlated genes and AUCs (accuracy: 0.738, AUC: 0.779) from only the four image texture features were calculated using the RF algorithm. The four image texture features validated by heterogeneity group gene expression were found to be related to cancer heterogeneity. The identification of these image texture features demonstrated that advanced prediction of NSCLC distant recurrence is possible using the image biomarker.
Inverse Versus Normal Behavior of Interactions, Elucidated Based on the Dynamic Nature with QTAIM Dual-Functional Analysis
Authors: Nakanishi Waro , Hayashi Satoko , Imanaka Ryosuke , Nishide Taro , Tanaka Eiichiro , Matsuoka Hikaru
Published: February 2023

In QTAIM dual-functional analysis, Hb(rc) is plotted versus Hb(rc) − Vb(rc)/2 for the interactions, where Hb(rc) and Vb(rc) are the total electron energy densities and potential energy densities, respectively, at the bond critical points (BCPs) on the interactions in question. The plots are analyzed by the polar (R, θ) coordinate representation for the data from the fully optimized structures, while those from the perturbed structures around the fully optimized structures are analyzed by (θp, κp). θp corresponds to the tangent line of the plot, and κp is the curvature; θ and θp are measured from the y-axis and y-direction, respectively. The normal and inverse behavior of interactions is proposed for the cases of θp > θ and θp < θ, respectively. The origin and the mechanism for the behavior are elucidated. Interactions with θp < θ are typically found, although seldom for [F–I-∗-F]−, [MeS-∗-TeMe]2+, [HS-∗-TeH]2+ and CF3SO2N-∗-IMe, where the asterisks emphasize the existence of BCPs in the interactions and where [Cl–Cl-∗-Cl]− and CF3SO2N-∗-BrMe were employed as the reference of θp > θ. The inverse behavior of the interactions is demonstrated to arise when Hb(rc) − Vb(rc)/2 and when the corresponding Gb(rc), the kinetic energy densities at BCPs, does not show normal behavior.
Therapeutic Advances in Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Georgianos Panagiotis I. , Vaios Vasilios , Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Papachristou Evangelos , Liakopoulos Vassilios
Published: February 2023

Although sodium glucose co-transporter type 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors were initially introduced as glucose-lowering medications, it was later discovered that cardiorenal protection is the most important treatment effect of these agents. A triad of landmark trials consistently showed the benefits of SGLT-2 inhibitors on kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), irrespective of the presence or absence of Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Furthermore, finerenone is a novel, selective, nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) that safely and effectively improved cardiorenal outcomes in a large Phase 3 clinical trial program that included >13,000 patients with T2D and a wide spectrum of CKD. These two drug categories have shared and distinct mechanisms of action, generating the hypothesis that an overadditive cardiorenal benefit with their combined use may be biologically plausible. In this article, we describe the mechanism of action, and we provide an overview of the evidence for cardiorenal protection with SGLT-2 inhibitors and the nonsteroidal MRA finerenone in patients with CKD associated with T2D.
The Orphan GPR50 Receptor Regulates the Aggressiveness of Breast Cancer Stem-like Cells via Targeting the NF-kB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Biswas Polash Kumar , Park Sang Rok , An Jongyub , Lim Kyung Min , Dayem Ahmed Abdal , Song Kwonwoo , Choi Hye Yeon , Choi Yujin , Park Kyoung Sik , Shin Hyun Jin , Kim Aram , Gil Minchan , Saha Subbroto Kumar , Cho Ssang-Goo
Published: February 2023

The expression of GPR50 in CSLC and several breast cancer cell lines was assessed by RT-PCR and online platform (UALCAN, GEPIA, and R2 gene analysis). The role of GPR50 in driving CSLC, sphere formation, cell proliferation, and migration was performed using shGPR50 gene knockdown, and the role of GPR50-regulated signaling pathways was examined by Western blotting and Luciferase Assay. Herein, we confirmed that the expression of G protein-coupled receptor 50 (GPR50) in cancer stem-like cells (CSLC) is higher than that in other cancer cells. We examined that the knockdown of GPR50 in CSLC led to decreased cancer properties, such as sphere formation, cell proliferation, migration, and stemness. GPR50 silencing downregulates NF-kB signaling, which is involved in sphere formation and aggressiveness of CSLC. In addition, we demonstrated that GPR50 also regulates ADAM-17 activity by activating NOTCH signaling pathways through the AKT/SP1 axis in CSLC. Overall, we demonstrated a novel GPR50-mediated regulation of the NF-κB-Notch signaling pathway, which can provide insights into CSLC progression and prognosis, and NF-κB-NOTCH-based CSLC treatment strategies.
The Roles of Epigenetic Regulation and the Tumor Microenvironment in the Mechanism of Resistance to Systemic Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Oura Kyoko , Morishita Asahiro , Hamaya Sae , Fujita Koji , Masaki Tsutomu
Published: February 2023

Primary liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major histologic type with a poor prognosis owing to the difficulty in early detection, the chemotherapy resistance, and the high recurrence rate of the disease. Despite recent advancements in HCC prevention and diagnosis, over 50% of patients are diagnosed at Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Stage B or C. Systemic therapies are recommended for unresectable HCC (uHCC) with major vascular invasion, extrahepatic metastases, or intrahepatic lesions that have a limited response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, but the treatment outcome tends to be unsatisfactory due to acquired drug resistance. Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the resistance to systemic therapies and the appropriate response strategies to solve this issue will contribute to improved outcomes in the multidisciplinary treatment of uHCC. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the mechanisms of resistance to drugs such as sorafenib, regorafenib, and lenvatinib in molecularly targeted therapy, with a focus on epigenetic regulation and the tumor microenvironment and outline the approaches to improve the therapeutic outcome for patients with advanced HCC.
Confronting Secondary Metabolites with Water Uptake and Transport in Plants under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Nicolas-Espinosa Juan , Garcia-Ibañez Paula , Lopez-Zaplana Alvaro , Yepes-Molina Lucia , Albaladejo-Marico Lorena , Carvajal Micaela
Published: February 2023

Phenolic compounds and glucosinolates are secondary plant metabolites that play fundamental roles in plant resistance to abiotic stress. These compounds have been found to increase in stress situations related to plant adaptive capacity. This review assesses the functions of phenolic compounds and glucosinolates in plant interactions involving abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, high temperature, metals toxicity, and mineral deficiency or excess. Furthermore, their relation with water uptake and transport mediated through aquaporins is reviewed. In this way, the increases of phenolic compounds and glucosinolate synthesis have been related to primary responses to abiotic stress and induction of resistance. Thus, their metabolic pathways, root exudation, and external application are related to internal cell and tissue movement, with a lack of information in this latter aspect.