bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Education Programmes to Improve Foot Self-Care Knowledge and Behaviour among Older People with End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) Receiving Haemodialysis (A Systematic Review)
Authors: Alshammari Layla , O’Halloran Peter , McSorley Oonagh , Doherty Julie , Noble Helen
Published: June 2022

Background: ESKD is a total or near-permanent failure in renal function. It is irreversible, progressive and ultimately fatal without peritoneal dialysis (PD), haemodialysis (HD) or kidney transplantation. Dialysis treatments can create new and additional problems for patients, one of which is foot amputation, as a result of non-healing wounds and vascular complications. The association between dialysis therapy and foot ulceration is linked to several factors: physical and psychological health; peripheral arterial disease (PAD); mobility; tissue oxygenation; manual dexterity; neuropathy; visual acuity; anaemia; nutrition; leg oedema; hypoalbuminemia; infection; inadequacy of dialysis; and leg/foot support during dialysis. The potential risk factors for foot ulceration may include: not routinely receiving foot care education; incorrect use of footwear; diabetes duration; neuropathy; and peripheral arterial disease. Aim: The aim of this review is to examine the factors that help or hinder successful implementation of foot care education programmes for ESKD patients receiving haemodialysis. Method: A comprehensive literature search was completed using five electronic databases. Medline; CINAHL; Embase; PsycINFO; and Cochrane Library. The Joanna Briggs Institute checklist (JBI) was used to quality appraise full text papers included in the review. The systematic review was not limited to specific categories of interventions to enable optimal comparison between interventions and provide a comprehensive overview of the evidence in this important field of foot care. Results: We found no previously published studies that considered foot care education programmes for haemodialysis patients who are not diabetic; thus, the present systematic review examined four studies on diabetic patients receiving haemodialysis exposed to foot care education programmes from various types of intervention designs. Conclusions: This systematic review has provided evidence that it is possible to influence foot care knowledge and self-care behaviours in both diabetic patients receiving haemodialysis and healthcare professionals.
Dental Treatment under General Anesthesia in Patients with Special Needs Provided by Private and Public Healthcare Services—A Retrospective, Comparative Study
Authors: Marinho Marcello Alves , Ramos Flávia Cristina Teixeira , Cardoso Andréa Lanzillotti , Silva-Junior Geraldo Oliveira , Faria Marcelo Daniel Brito , Bastos Luciana Freitas , Dziedzic Arkadiusz , Picciani Bruna Lavinas Sayed
Published: June 2022

In special care dentistry, general anesthesia (GA) is considered as an alternative option to facilitate treatment for uncooperative patients with special needs (PSN) who require invasive dental interventions. Objective: to evaluate the profile of dental treatment procedures performed and the characteristics of PSN who underwent dental treatment under GA, provided by private and public healthcare providers. Methods: A retrospective, observational study involving a sample of 100 PSN treated in hospital and specialist secondary care settings. Demographic data and clinical information were collected. The analysis of data was performed using descriptive analysis and frequency statistical tests. Results: out of 100 participants, 63% of the PSN who received care in the private sector and the remaining 37% of PSN registered with public-funded care providers, aged 6 to 80 years old, were treated under GA. Autistic spectrum disorder was the most common medical diagnosis recorded (33%). More than half (52%) of the PSN treated by private care providers sought specialist care in an outpatient setting prior to GA vs. 5% of the PSN treated by public-funded providers. The utilization of sedation prior to GA was more common in the private sector. A vast majority (86%) of all subjects underwent multiple dental extractions (86%) and restorations (62%). Conclusions: comprehensive dental care under GA, which composes an integral part of special care dentistry, can be safely provided in a hospital setting, in both private and public sectors. While early intervention using sedation and behavioral management partially mitigates the need for dental care under GA, the vast majority of PSN may require dental treatment under GA in future to facilitate complex dental care.
Health Promotion for Outpatient Careworkers in Germany
Authors: Mojtahedzadeh Natascha , Bernburg Monika , Rohwer Elisabeth , Nienhaus Albert , Groneberg David A. , Harth Volker , Mache Stefanie
Published: June 2022

Due to ongoing demographic changes, the need for care is increasing in Germany. The number of outpatient care services is also rising, and with it, the number of employees in outpatient care, who are also continuously becoming older. Workplace health promotion (WHP) becomes relevant in this context, as it can reduce negative strain reactions and promote employees’ health. The aim of this study was (1) to reveal implemented WHP interventions in German outpatient care services; (2) to examine the potential challenges regarding a successful implementation of WHP measures; and (3) to illuminate further requests and needs experienced by outpatient careworkers. In qualitative field research, 30 semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with German caregivers, using the problem-centered interview method. The collected data were deductively and inductively evaluated and interpreted, using qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. Outpatient caregivers reported various WHP measures known from their workplaces, such as the provision of fruit baskets, programmes to increase physical activity, or a subsidy for a personal gym. They further reported WHP, such as back training, known from other care services. However, the respondents spoke of the challenges regarding the implementation or the use of WHP interventions in general. The most frequently named barriers were a lack of time after work and interventions that were only offered in their leisure time. In the same course, the participants still needed offers to increase physical activity, joint activities, or relaxation techniques. However, respondents highlighted that they preferred the interventions to take place during working hours. This way, they would also be more likely to take advantage of the interventions. The results of this study provide an insight into various WHP measures that already exist, or that are desirable for implementation with regard to caregivers’ needs. Subjectively perceived challenges for a successful implementation of WHP measures represent the importance of adjustments in the work organization of caregivers. It becomes clear that WHP is not yet established in the ambulant care sector, although it appears to be imperative for keeping caregivers healthy. Considering the different needs of employees, the results can provide a basis for the development of needs-based health promotion measures for caregivers.
Reliability and Validation of the Japanese Version of the Patient Empowerment Scale
Authors: Tsubouchi Yoshihito , Tainosho Akiyoshi , Shimomura Koudai , Yorozuya Kyosuke , Kou Motoasa , Tsubouchi Rie , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Naito Yasuo
Published: June 2022

Empowerment scales for inpatients have been developed worldwide, but their validity and reliability have not been adequately tested and applied to the health promotion and care among older adults during hospitalization. In this study, the Patient Empowerment Scale developed by Faulkner was translated into Japanese, and Japanese patients were surveyed to test its clinical applicability. To test its applicability, 151 patients in rehabilitation wards were surveyed in four municipalities. After considering ceiling/floor effects and validating the structure, the Patient Empowerment Scale—Japanese comprised 37 items and six factors: subject–staff interaction, environmental adjustment through collaboration, necessary information gathering and problem awareness, proactive behavioral practices, self-disclosure, and self-management of activities. Criteria-related validity assessment confirmed the scale’s correlation with the Health Locus of Control Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale, 13-item Sense of Coherence Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale. Regarding internal consistency, the Cronbach’s alpha was 0.93 for all 37 items. The Cronbach’s alphas for the six factors were 0.93, 0.91, 0.92, 0.92, 0.91, and 0.75, respectively. In our test/re-test of reliability, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient between the first and second total scores was ρ = 0.96, p < 0.01. These results confirm the scale’s validity and reliability, and its applicability to older hospitalized patients.
Clinical Parameters Affecting the Therapeutic Efficacy of SGLT-2—Comparative Effectiveness and Safety of Dapagliflozin and Empagliflozin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Anton Irina Claudia , Mititelu-Tartau Liliana , Popa Eliza Gratiela , Poroch Mihaela , Poroch Vladimir , Pintilei Delia Reurean , Botnariu Gina Eosefina
Published: June 2022

(1) Background. We aimed to assess long-term efficacy and safety in inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes (T2DM) of two SGLT-2 inhibitors: empagliflozin (Empa) and dapagliflozin (Dapa), combined with metformin, other oral antidiabetics or insulin, according to the protocols in Romania. (2) Methods. The data of 100 patients treated for T2DM with associated dyslipidemia and/or cardiovascular diseases at the University Hospital and Consultmed Medical Center in Iasi were retrospectively reviewed (2017–2021). In total, 48 patients had received dapagliflozin (10 mg with oral antidiabetics or insulin) and 52 patients received empagliflozin (10 mg /25 mg with oral antidiabetics). (3) Results. In both groups, the lowering of BMI was significant: Dapa group (32.04 ± 4.49 vs. 31.40 ± 4.18 kg/m2; p = 0.006), and Empa group (34.16 ± 5.08 vs. 33.17 ± 4.99 kg/m2; p = 0.002). Blood sugar average levels decreased significantly (170 vs. 136 mg/dL; p = 0.001 for Dapa; 163 vs. 140 mg/dL; p = 0.002 for Empa) and also average levels of HbA1c (7.90% vs. 7.51%; p = 0,01 for Dapa; 7.72% vs. 7.35%; p = 0.004 for Empa). (4) Conclusions. Better results in all variables were observed in younger male patients with a shorter duration of diabetes and threshold BMI levels of 34.1, treated with SGLT2, and more significantly with Empa.
Enhancement of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities of Mango Fruit by Pre- and Postharvest Application of Salicylic Acid
Authors: Win Si Thu , Setha Sutthiwal
Published: June 2022

Mango fruits have a high nutritional value and are beneficial to health. However, losses frequently occur after harvest, because they are perishable. Salicylic acid (SA) can be used to preserve fruit quality and maintain their nutritional contents. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of applications of 2 mM SA on the physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of mango fruit. For this purpose, mango fruits received preharvest (Pre SA) or postharvest applications of SA (Post SA), or their combination (Pre + Post SA); the fruits were stored at 13 °C for 20 days. Weight loss, decay, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radical scavenging activity were maintained in SA-treated fruit. The Pre + Post SA treatment was superior in delaying fruit ripening, and maintaining lower soluble solids contents and higher total acidity. In addition, total phenolic compounds, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and free radical scavenging activity of anti-inflammatory substances (such as nitric oxide), as well as hyaluronidase inhibition, were higher in the Pre + Post SA treatment throughout storage. Therefore, both pre- and postharvest SA treatments are recommended for preserving the quality of mango fruit, such as Nam Dok Mai Si Thong, and for maintaining their nutritional properties for human health.
Antifungal Activity of Volatile Organic Compounds from Bacillus velezensis CE 100 against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Choub Vantha , Won Sang-Jae , Ajuna Henry B. , Moon Jae-Hyun , Choi Su-In , Lim Hyo-In , Ahn Young Sang
Published: June 2022

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is the most prevalent phytopathogen, causing anthracnose disease that severely affects the production of various fruit trees, including walnut and jujube. In this study, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from Bacillus velezensis CE 100 disrupted the cell membrane integrity of C. gloeosporioides and reduced the spore germination by 36.4% and mycelial growth by 20.0% at a bacterial broth concentration of 10%, while the control group showed no antifungal effect. Based on the headspace solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC-MS) analysis, seven VOCs were identified from the headspace of B. velezensis CE 100. Out of the seven VOCs, 5-nonylamine and 3-methylbutanoic acid were only detected in the headspace of B. velezensis CE 100 but not in the control group. Both 5-nonylamine and 3-methylbutanoic acid showed significant antifungal activity against the spore germination and mycelial growth of C. gloeosporioides. Treatment with 100 µL/mL of 5-nonylamine and 3-methylbutanoic acid suppressed the spore germination of C. gloeosporioides by 10.9% and 30.4% and reduced mycelial growth by 14.0% and 22.6%, respectively. Therefore, 5-nonylamine and 3-methylbutanoic acid are the potential antifungal VOCs emitted by B. velezensis CE 100, and this is the first report about the antifungal activity of 5-nonylamine against C. gloeosporioides.
Copper Stress Enhances the Lignification of Axial Organs in Zinnia elegans
Authors: Tugbaeva Anastasia , Ermoshin Alexander , Wuriyanghan Hada , Maleva Maria , Borisova Galina , Kiseleva Irina
Published: June 2022

Zinnia elegans Jacq. is an ornamental plant, widely used in landscaping. Heavy-metal pollution in urban and rural areas is still increasing, which determines the actuality of studying plants’ reactions to pollutants. Zinnia was not sufficiently studied in this regard, so the aim of our research was to identify morphophysiological changes in this species under excess copper concentration in the soil. For this, we treated a growth substrate with 200 µM CuSO4 solution for 20 days. At the end of the treatment, several morphological, biochemical, and molecular genetic traits were evaluated: the root and the shoot size; the concentration of H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA), as indicators of stress; the amount of the phenolic compounds and lignin; and the level of the expression of genes, which encoded their biosynthesis. The Cu amount in the substrate and zinnia organs was quantified using atomic-absorption spectroscopy; hydrogen peroxide, MDA, and phenolic compounds were determined spectrophotometrically, while the amount of lignin was determined according to Klason. Real-time PCR was used for estimation of the gene-transcription level. Lignin in tissues was visualized by fluorescent microscopy. In experimental plants, Cu accumulation was higher in the root than in the stem. This caused an increase in stress markers and a decrease in the root and stem lengths. For the first time for zinnia, it was shown that for several genes—4-coumarate-CoA ligase (4CL), cinnamoyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD), and class III peroxidase (PRX)—the level of expression increased under copper treatment. The rise of the transcripts’ amount of these genes was accompanied by a thickening and lignification of the cell walls in the metaxylem vessels. Thus, the adaptation of zinnia to the excess Cu in the growth medium was associated with the metabolic changes in the phenylpropanoid pathway. As a result, the lignification increased in the root, which led to the accumulation of Cu in this organ and limited its translocation through the xylem to the stem, which provided plant growth.
Annona muricata Leaves as a Source of Bioactive Compounds: Extraction and Quantification Using Ultrasound
Authors: Nolasco-González Yolanda , Chacón-López Martina Alejandra , Ortiz-Basurto Rosa Isela , Aguilera-Aguirre Selene , González-Aguilar Gustavo Adolfo , Rodríguez-Aguayo Cristian , Navarro-Cortez Merle Catalina , García-Galindo Hugo Sergio , García-Magaña María de Lourdes , Meza-Espinoza Libier , Montalvo-González Efigenia
Published: June 2022

In this work, the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) (operating conditions of sonication amplitude, pulse-cycle, and extraction time) was investigated to obtain an extract rich in biologically active compounds from Annona muricata leaves. In addition, the content of bioactive compounds from the extract by the optimal UAE conditions (UAE extract) was compared with extracts prepared by decoction and infusion. Moreover, Artemia salina toxicity was evaluated in all extracts. UAE extract (using optimal conditions: 80% amplitude, 0.7 s pulse-cycle, for 4.54 min) contained 178.48 mg/100 mL of soluble phenols, 20.18 mg/100 mL of total flavonoids, 27.81 mg/100 mL of hydrolyzable polyphenols, 167.07 mg/100 mL of condensed tannins, 30.44 mg/100 mL of total alkaloids and 14.62 mg/100 mL of total acetogenins. The UAE extract exhibited a high antioxidant capacity and a higher content of bioactive compounds from ~6 to ~927-fold than decoction or infusion, depending on the type of compound. Twenty-four different phenolic compounds were identified in the samples, and UAE extract produced the highest concentration. All extracts were considered non-toxic using the A. salina test. The UAE extract from A. muricata leaves is a rich source of bioactive compounds and can be utilized to formulate therapeutic drugs or nutraceutical foods.
Pharmacoeconomics Aspects of Antiepileptic Drugs in Pediatric Patients with Epilepsy
Authors: Kopciuch Dorota , Fliciński Jędrzej , Steinborn Barbara , Winczewska-Wiktor Anna , Paczkowska Anna , Zaprutko Tomasz , Ratajczak Piotr , Nowakowska Elżbieta , Kus Krzysztof
Published: June 2022

Objective: This study assessed the differentiation of treatment costs with newer and older antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) through its correlation with treatment effectiveness and an adverse event (AE) in pediatric patients with epilepsy (PPE). Methods: PPE on monotherapy of AEDs for the last 6 months were screened for this study. Seizure frequency during the study was compared with that within 6 months before the study. The following parameters were also assessed: quality of life in epilepsy, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Liverpool AEs Profile. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) analysis based on the costs of pharmacotherapy was also performed. Results: Out of 80 PPE, 67 completed the study, and 13 PPE were lost after failing to meet the inclusion criteria. A total of 56.71% of PPE were on newer AEDs, and 43.28% were on older AEDs. Newer and older AEDs did not differ significantly in seizure frequency reduction and quality of life parameters, although these were improved significantly during the study period. As per ICER, newer AEDs need an additional EUR 36.82 per unit reduction in seizure frequency. Conclusion: Newer AEDs have comparatively better efficacy, although not significantly better than older AEDs. However, the additional cost per unit improvement is quite high with newer AEDs, necessitating pharmacoeconomic consideration in pediatric epilepsy treatment.
The Effects of a Dance and Music-Based Intervention on Parkinson’s Patients’ Well-Being: An Interview Study
Authors: Colombo Barbara , Rigby Alison , Gnerre Martina , Biassoni Federica
Published: June 2022

Previous research has shown the positive effects of music and dance-based interventions on the physical and psychosocial symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The aims of this study were: (1) to investigate how PD patients subjectively perceive the emotional, cognitive, and social benefits of a music- and dance-based intervention; (2) to apply an innovative methodology for an interview analysis combining findings from a linguistic text with an analytic approach and conducted with the software LIWC and from the content analysis performed by human coders. Extensive, open-ended interviews were conducted with 13 patients with PD who had participated in a dance and music program. The interviews were analyzed using both human coders and the computer-based approach. The results show that emotional and social aspects are considered the most frequent perceived benefits of the dance program. The data confirm the positive impact of dance- and music-based programs on promoting participants’ emotional and social well-being. A combined approach to text analysis appears to be a promising way to achieve more in-depth insights into patients’ subjective perceptions.
Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Motivation, Anxiety and Leadership in Athletes
Authors: Rubio Isabel Mercader , Ángel Nieves Gutiérrez , Esteban María Dolores Pérez , Ruiz Nieves Fátima Oropesa
Published: June 2022

Nowadays, emotional intelligence is not only understood as the recognition of our own emotions but also the regulation of these emotions. In the field of sports, the concept of sports leadership is increasingly relevant, understood as a behavioral and cognitive process closely related to sports success, based on interpersonal relationships, trust, respect and the feeling of coherence. In this study, we intend to analyze the relationship between sports success and emotional intelligence to verify their relationship and the influence of other variables such as sports anxiety. As a sample, we took a total of 165 active sportsmen and women studying for both undergraduate and master’s degrees related to the sciences of physical activity and sport. The expected results aim to demonstrate the relationship between emotional intelligence, sports leadership and sports anxiety.
Healthy Mobile Work: The Relationship of a Participative Work Agreement and Workplace Health Management-Qualitative Results of a Longitudinal Study
Authors: Jöllenbeck Marlies , Maloku Olivia , Berling Ines , Stamer Tjorven , Ochsmann Elke
Published: June 2022

Mobile work is becoming increasingly common, and it has been, consequently, associated with new health-related hazards and resources. Our study examined health-related stresses, strains and resources of mobile work in a medium-sized company. The study aimed to generate implications for a work agreement and for workplace health management (WHM). For this, a multi-method longitudinal study (2019–20) was conducted, with 29 focus group and 6 individual interviews (absolute number of all participants N = 187). It was designed as a qualitative content analysis and theoretically based on the job demands-resources model (JD-R). Positive effects (e.g., increased work–life balance, higher concentration), as well as negative consequences (e.g., alienation in the team, communication effort), can be found. Numerous fields of action for both the work agreement and WHM could be identified. For example, the work agreement regulates the equipment for working from home with support from WHM in order to ensure occupational health-oriented selection and handling, or by fixing core working hours through the work agreement and supporting competence building for leaders in order to enable flexible work commitments for employees. Self-organised work at home can be supported both by rules in the service agreement and by building up self-management skills through the WHM’s offers. The findings illustrate that a work agreement can make a relevant contribution to a healthy design of mobile work by systematically linking it with WHM. The synergies between work agreement, employee health and WHM become clear.
Air Quality, Pollution and Sustainability Trends in South Asia: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Abdul Jabbar Saima , Tul Qadar Laila , Ghafoor Sulaman , Rasheed Lubna , Sarfraz Zouina , Sarfraz Azza , Sarfraz Muzna , Felix Miguel , Cherrez-Ojeda Ivan
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Worsening air quality and pollution lead to numerous environmental health and sustainability issues in the South Asia region. This study analyzes India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal for air quality data trends and sustainability indicators. Methodology: By using a population-based study design, six South Asian countries were analyzed using a step-wise approach. Data were obtained from government websites and publicly available repositories for region dynamics and key variables. Results: Between 1990 and 2020, air quality data indicated the highest rise in CO2 emissions in India (578.5 to 2441.8 million tons) (MT), Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. Greenhouse gas emissions, from 1990 to 2018, nearly tripled in India (1990.4 to 3346.6 MT of CO2-equivalents), Nepal (20.6 to 54.6 MT of CO2-equivalents), and Pakistan, and doubled in Bangladesh. Methane emissions rose the highest in Pakistan (70.4 to 151 MT of CO2-equivalents), followed by Nepal (17 to 31 MT of CO2-equivalents) and India (524.8 to 669.3 MT of CO2-equivalents). Nitrous oxide nearly doubled in Bangladesh (16.5 to 29.3 MT of CO2-equivalents), India (141.6 to 256.9 MT of CO2-equivalents), Nepal (17 to 31 MT of CO2-equivalents), and more than doubled in Pakistan (27 to 61 MT of CO2-equivalents). On noting particulate matter 2,5 annual exposure, India saw the highest rise from 81.3 µg/m3 (in 1990) to 90.9 µg/m3 (2017), whereas trends were steady in Pakistan (60.34 to 58.3 µg/m3). The highest rise was noted in Nepal (87.6 to 99.7 µg/m3) until 2017. During the coronavirus disease 19 pandemic, the pre-and post-pandemic changes between 2018 and 2021 indicated the highest PM2.5 concentration in Bangladesh (76.9 µg/m3), followed by Pakistan (66.8 µg/m3), India (58.1 µg/m3), Nepal (46 µg/m3) and Sri Lanka (17.4 µg/m3). Overall, South Asian countries contribute to the worst air quality and sustainability trends regions worldwide. Conclusions: Air pollution is prevalent across a majority of South Asia countries. Owing to unsustainable industrial practices, pollution trends have risen to hazardous levels. Economic, environmental, and human health impacts have manifested and require urgent, concerted efforts by governing bodies in the region.
Female Homicide in Italy in 2021: Different Criminological and Psychopathological Perspectives on the Phenomenon
Authors: Terranova Claudio , Marino Laura , Pozzebon Francesco
Published: June 2022

The intentional homicide of female victims, which is most commonly perpetrated by intimate partners or family members, has been recognized in recent years as a matter of grave public concern that needs to be addressed from the cultural and judicial perspectives. To allow an in-depth criminological and psychopathological evaluation of female homicide in Italy in 2021 to be conducted, the authors performed a newspaper report analysis of the phenomenon. All female homicides that occurred in Italy in 2021 (n = 119) were included in the study. The analysis confirmed the low rate of female homicides in Italy when compared with other countries and also showed the phenomenon to be more complex than usually described. The highest rate of homicides was observed in elderly females when compared with other age groups, implying different criminological considerations and suggesting that gender-based violence may only explain some of the identified cases. The high incidence of suicide or attempted suicide among offenders, together with the high incidence of reported mental disorders in that population, suggests that a psychopathological perspective on the phenomenon of female homicide could help with the development and implementation of preventive strategies that focus on managing mental health at a territorial level and intervening in difficult domestic situations.
Value Realization and Optimization Path of Forest Ecological Products—Case Study from Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Wang Ning , Xu Caiyao , Kong Fanbin
Published: June 2022

In the last decade, more and more attention has been paid to the efficiency of ecological products’ value in the literature. Studying the value-conversion efficiency of forest ecological products can measure and reflect the huge value contained in forests, which is of great significance to promote the transformation between “clear water and green mountains” and “gold and silver mountains” as well as solve the problem of economic development and environmental protection. Studying the value-conversion efficiency of forest ecological products can scientifically evaluate the results of the mutual transformation of “clear water and green mountains” and “gold and silver mountains”, which is of great significance for deepening the theory of the “two mountains”. This paper took Zhejiang Province as the research object, constructed an index system of forest ecological products’ value accounting, used the super-SBM model and Malmquist index to calculate the conversion efficiency of forest ecological products’ value, and proposed optimization paths according to the research results. The results showed that: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the value of forest ecological products in Zhejiang Province showed a fluctuating upward trend. In 2020, the total value of forest ecological products was RMB 973.717 billion. Among them, the value of material products was RMB 12.560 billion, the value of ecological regulatory products was RMB 726.323 billion, and the value of cultural service products was RMB 234.834 billion. (2) There were great differences in the value-conversion efficiency of forest ecological products among cities in Zhejiang Province, but the overall trend was steady and developing in a positive direction. (3) The total-factor productivity of forest ecological products in Zhejiang Province showed a fluctuating trend, and its growth was mainly limited by the technical efficiency and technological progress index. (4) The main reasons for the conversion-efficiency loss of forest ecological products’ value in Zhejiang Province were excessive input and insufficient output. The specific reasons for the loss of efficiency in different cities were different, so it is necessary to find improvement paths according to local conditions. Our research provides a new perspective for the academic community to evaluate the value-realization effect of ecological products as well as a decision-making reference for policy makers of ecological environmental protection and construction.
Research on the Heterogeneity of Carbon Emissions under the Government’s Promotion of Urban Agglomeration Development: Empirical Evidence from County-to-District Reforms
Authors: Jin Jing , Chen Duozhang
Published: June 2022

County-to-district reform (CTDR) is an important policy path for the government to promote the cultivation and construction of urban agglomerations, and exploring its “carbon emission” effect is of great significance for the high-quality development of urban agglomerations and the realization of the “dual carbon” goal. Based on the panel data of 120 counties in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration from 2000–2017, this paper empirically tests the effect of county-to-district reforms on per capita carbon emissions in the counties of the central and peripheral cities of the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration under the Kutznets curve (EKC) hypothesis and the integrated difference-in-difference (DID) model and STIRPAT model. The results show that: (1) The carbon emission effect of county-to-district reforms have significant regional heterogeneity. The reforms of the central city of the urban agglomeration significantly reduced the per capita carbon emission of the county by 4.27%, whereas the reforms of the periphery cities of the urban agglomeration significantly increased per capita carbon emission by 6.56%. (2) The impact of county-to-district reforms on county per capita carbon emissions began to appear in the fourth year of reform. (3) Mechanism analysis showed that county-to-district reforms promoted central cities population agglomeration and reduction of carbon emission intensity can help reduce the per capita carbon emission level in counties, whereas peripheral cities have a dual carbon-increasing effect of decreasing population density and increasing carbon emission intensity. Therefore, the approval of county-to-district reforms should be strictly controlled, and the reform of non-central cities would be especially prudent, so as to reduce the negative effect of reform on the high-quality development of cities.
An Exploratory Assessment of Factors with Which Influenza Vaccine Uptake Is Associated in Hungarian Adults 65 Years Old and Older: Findings from European Health Interview Surveys
Authors: Szőllősi Gergő József , Minh Nguyen Chau , Santoso Cornelia Melinda Adi , Zsuga Judit , Nagy Attila Csaba , Kardos László
Published: June 2022

Influenza vaccination is an imperative public health task for elderly people due to a higher risk of developing more severe complications. The main aim of our study was to determine the influencing factors of being vaccinated against influenza among subjects aged 65 and above. Data were from the Hungarian implementations of the European Health Interview Survey 2009, 2014 and 2019 studies with a final sample size of 3355. A multivariate logistic regression model with interactions was used to identify the possible factors associated with vaccination. Approximately 32% of the participants were vaccinated for the most recent influenza season. The most important factors were identified that contributed to influenza vaccination among individuals, which were the following: educational attainment, having a partner, the annual frequency of specialist and doctor visits, and having comorbidities. Respondents who thought that they could do a lot for their health had higher odds of being immunized. Being obese seemed to be a risk factor. According to our findings, the current influenza vaccination coverage was considered as low in Hungary; hence, the implementation of minor reformulations in the field of health policy is suggested.
Age and Chronodisruption in Mouse Heart: Effect of the NLRP3 Inflammasome and Melatonin Therapy
Authors: Fernández-Ortiz Marisol , Sayed Ramy K. A. , Román-Montoya Yolanda , de Lama María Ángeles Rol , Fernández-Martínez José , Ramírez-Casas Yolanda , Florido-Ruiz Javier , Rusanova Iryna , Escames Germaine , Acuña-Castroviejo Darío
Published: June 2022

Age and age-dependent inflammation are two main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Aging can also affect clock gene-related impairments such as chronodisruption and has been linked to a decline in melatonin synthesis and aggravation of the NF-κB/NLRP3 innate immune response known as inflammaging. The molecular drivers of these mechanisms remain unknown. This study investigated the impact of aging and NLRP3 expression on the cardiac circadian system, and the actions of melatonin as a potential therapy to restore daily rhythms by mitigating inflammaging. We analyzed the circadian expression and rhythmicity of clock genes in heart tissue of wild-type and NLRP3-knockout mice at 3, 12, and 24 months of age, with and without melatonin treatment. Our results support that aging, NLRP3 inflammasome, and melatonin affected the cardiac clock genes expression, except for Rev-erbα, which was not influenced by genotype. Aging caused small phase changes in Clock, loss of rhythmicity in Per2 and Rorα, and mesor dampening of Clock, Bmal1, and Per2. NLRP3 inflammasome influenced the acrophase of Clock, Per2, and Rorα. Melatonin restored the acrophase and the rhythm of clock genes affected by age or NLRP3 activation. The administration of melatonin re-established murine cardiac homeostasis by reversing age-associated chronodisruption. Altogether, these results highlight new findings about the effects aging and NLRP3 inflammasome have on clock genes in cardiac tissue, pointing to continuous melatonin as a promising therapy to placate inflammaging and restore circadian rhythm in heart muscle. Additionally, light microscopy analysis showed age-related morphological impairments in cardiomyocytes, which were less severe in mice lacking NLRP3. Melatonin supplementation preserved the structure of cardiac muscle fibers in all experimental groups.
Generation and Identification of the Number of Copies of Exogenous Genes and the T-DNA Insertion Site in SCN-Resistance Transformation Event ZHs1-2
Authors: Tang Guixiang , Zhong Xuanbo , Hong Wei , Li Jianfei , Shu Yue , Liu Lulu
Published: June 2022

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines Ichinohe) causes an estimated economic loss of about USD 3 billion each year in soybean (Glycine max L.) production worldwide. Overexpression of resistance genes against SCN provides a powerful approach to develop SCN resistance cultivars in soybean. The clarification of molecular characterization in transformation events is a prerequisite for ecological risk assessment, food safety, and commercial release of genetically modified crops. Here, we generated transgenic events harboring the BCN (beet cyst nematode) resistance Hs1pro−1 gene using the Agrobacterium-mediated method in soybean, evaluated their resistance to SCN infection, and clarified the molecular characterization of one of the transformation events. Five independent and stable inheritable transformation events were generated by an Agrobacterium-mediated transformation method. SCN resistance tests showed the average number of developed females per plant and female index (FI) in T4 ZHs1-1, ZHs1-2, ZHs1-3, ZHs1-4, and ZHs1-5 transformation events were significantly lower than that in the nontransgenic control. Among these, the ZHs1-2 transformation event had the lowest number of developed females per plant and FI. Southern hybridization showed the exogenous target Hs1pro−1 gene was inserted in one copy and the Bar gene was inserted two copies in the ZHs1-2 transformation event. The exogenous T-DNA fragment was integrated in the reverse position of Chr02: 5351566–5231578 (mainly the Bar gene expression cassette) and in the forward position of Chr03: 17083358–17083400 (intact T-DNA, including Hs1pro−1 and Bar gene expression cassette) using a whole genome sequencing method (WGS). The results of WGS method and Southern hybridization were consistent. All the functional elements of exogenous T-DNA fragments were verified by PCR using specific primer pairs in the T5 and T6 ZHs1-2 transformation events. These results demonstrated that the overexpression of Hs1pro−1 gene enhanced SCN resistance, and provide an important reference for the biosafety assessment and the labeling detection in transformation event ZHs1-2.
Roles of AGD2a in Plant Development and Microbial Interactions of Lotus japonicus
Authors: Huang Mingchao , Yuan Mengru , Sun Chunyu , Li Meiru , Wu Pingzhi , Jiang Huawu , Wu Guojiang , Chen Yaping
Published: June 2022

Arabidopsis AGD2 (Aberrant Growth and Death2) and its close homolog ALD1 (AGD2-like defense response protein 1) have divergent roles in plant defense. We previously reported that modulation of salicylic acid (SA) contents by ALD1 affects numbers of nodules produced by Lotus japonicus, but AGD2′s role in leguminous plants remains unclear. A combination of enzymatic analysis and biological characterization of genetic materials was used to study the function of AGD2 (LjAGD2a and LjAGD2b) in L. japonicus. Both LjAGD2a and LjAGD2b could complement dapD and dapE mutants of Escherichia coli and had aminotransferase activity in vitro. ljagd2 plants, with insertional mutations of LjAGD2, had delayed flowering times and reduced seed weights. In contrast, overexpression of LjAGD2a in L. japonicus induced early flowering, with increases in seed and flower sizes, but reductions in pollen fertility and seed setting rates. Additionally, ljagd2a mutation resulted in increased expression of nodulin genes and corresponding increases in infection threads and nodule numbers following inoculation with Rhizobium. Changes in expression of LjAGD2a in L. japonicus also affected endogenous SA contents and hence resistance to pathogens. Our results indicate that LjAGD2a functions as an LL-DAP aminotransferase and plays important roles in plant development. Moreover, LjAGD2a activates defense signaling via the Lys synthesis pathway, thereby participating in legume–microbe interaction.
Integrated Methylome and Transcriptome Analysis Provides Insights into the DNA Methylation Underlying the Mechanism of Cytoplasmic Male Sterility in Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.)
Authors: Li Zengqiang , Luo Dengjie , Tang Meiqiong , Cao Shan , Pan Jiao , Zhang Wenxian , Hu Yali , Yue Jiao , Huang Zhen , Li Ru , Chen Peng
Published: June 2022

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) is widely exploited in hybrid seed production. Kenaf is an important fiber crop with high heterosis. The molecular mechanism of kenaf CMS remains unclear, particularly in terms of DNA methylation. Here, using the anthers of a kenaf CMS line (P3A) and its maintainer line (P3B), comparative physiological, DNA methylation, and transcriptome analyses were performed. The results showed that P3A had considerably lower levels of IAA, ABA, photosynthetic products and ATP contents than P3B. DNA methylome analysis revealed 650 differentially methylated genes (DMGs) with 313 up- and 337 down methylated, and transcriptome analysis revealed 1788 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with 558 up- and 1230 downregulated genes in P3A compared with P3B. Moreover, 45 genes were characterized as both DEGs and DMGs, including AUX,CYP, BGL3B, SUS6, AGL30 and MYB21. Many DEGs may be regulated by related DMGs based on methylome and transcriptome studies. These DEGs were involved in carbon metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, the TCA cycle and the MAPK signaling pathway and were shown to be important for CMS in kenaf. These results provide new insights into the epigenetic mechanism of CMS in kenaf and other crops.
Novel OPN1LW/OPN1MW Exon 3 Haplotype-Associated Splicing Defect in Patients with X-Linked Cone Dysfunction
Authors: Stingl Katarina , Baumann Britta , De Angeli Pietro , Vincent Ajoy , Héon Elise , Cordonnier Monique , De Baere Elfriede , Raskin Salmo , Sato Mario Teruo , Shiokawa Naoye , Kohl Susanne , Wissinger Bernd
Published: June 2022

Certain combinations of common variants in exon 3 of OPN1LW and OPN1MW, the genes encoding the apo-protein of the long- and middle-wavelength sensitive cone photoreceptor visual pigments in humans, induce splicing defects and have been associated with dyschromatopsia and cone dysfunction syndromes. Here we report the identification of a novel exon 3 haplotype, G-C-G-A-T-T-G-G (referring to nucleotide variants at cDNA positions c.453, c.457, c.465, c.511, c.513, c.521, c.532, and c.538) deduced to encode a pigment with the amino acid residues L-I-V-V-A at positions p.153, p.171, p.174, p.178, and p.180, in OPN1LW or OPN1MW or both in a series of seven patients from four families with cone dysfunction. Applying minigene assays for all observed exon 3 haplotypes in the patients, we demonstrated that the novel exon 3 haplotype L-I-V-V-A induces a strong but incomplete splicing defect with 3–5% of residual correctly spliced transcripts. Minigene splicing outcomes were similar in HEK293 cells and the human retinoblastoma cell line WERI-Rb1, the latter retaining a cone photoreceptor expression profile including endogenous OPN1LW and OPN1MW gene expression. Patients carrying the novel L-I-V-V-A haplotype presented with a mild form of Blue Cone Monochromacy or Bornholm Eye Disease-like phenotype with reduced visual acuity, reduced cone electroretinography responses, red-green color vision defects, and frequently with severe myopia.
In Vivo Inhibition of TRPC6 by SH045 Attenuates Renal Fibrosis in a New Zealand Obese (NZO) Mouse Model of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Zheng Zhihuang , Xu Yao , Krügel Ute , Schaefer Michael , Grune Tilman , Nürnberg Bernd , Köhler May-Britt , Gollasch Maik , Tsvetkov Dmitry , Markó Lajos
Published: June 2022

Metabolic syndrome is a significant worldwide public health challenge and is inextricably linked to adverse renal and cardiovascular outcomes. The inhibition of the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily C member 6 (TRPC6) has been found to ameliorate renal outcomes in the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) of accelerated renal fibrosis. Therefore, the pharmacological inhibition of TPRC6 could be a promising therapeutic intervention in the progressive tubulo-interstitial fibrosis in hypertension and metabolic syndrome. In the present study, we hypothesized that the novel selective TRPC6 inhibitor SH045 (larixyl N-methylcarbamate) ameliorates UUO-accelerated renal fibrosis in a New Zealand obese (NZO) mouse model, which is a polygenic model of metabolic syndrome. The in vivo inhibition of TRPC6 by SH045 markedly decreased the mRNA expression of pro-fibrotic markers (Col1α1, Col3α1, Col4α1, Acta2, Ccn2, Fn1) and chemokines (Cxcl1, Ccl5, Ccr2) in UUO kidneys of NZO mice compared to kidneys of vehicle-treated animals. Renal expressions of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were diminished in SH045- versus vehicle-treated UUO mice. Furthermore, renal inflammatory cell infiltration (F4/80+ and CD4+) and tubulointerstitial fibrosis (Sirius red and fibronectin staining) were ameliorated in SH045-treated NZO mice. We conclude that the pharmacological inhibition of TRPC6 might be a promising antifibrotic therapeutic method to treat progressive tubulo-interstitial fibrosis in hypertension and metabolic syndrome.
Understanding the Behaviour of Human Cell Types under Simulated Microgravity Conditions: The Case of Erythrocytes
Authors: Manis Cristina , Manca Alessia , Murgia Antonio , Uras Giuseppe , Caboni Pierluigi , Congiu Terenzio , Faa Gavino , Pantaleo Antonella , Cao Giacomo
Published: June 2022

Erythrocytes are highly specialized cells in human body, and their main function is to ensure the gas exchanges, O2 and CO2, within the body. The exposure to microgravity environment leads to several health risks such as those affecting red blood cells. In this work, we investigated the changes that occur in the structure and function of red blood cells under simulated microgravity, compared to terrestrial conditions, at different time points using biochemical and biophysical techniques. Erythrocytes exposed to simulated microgravity showed morphological changes, a constant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), a significant reduction in total antioxidant capacity (TAC), a remarkable and constant decrease in total glutathione (GSH) concentration, and an augmentation in malondialdehyde (MDA) at increasing times. Moreover, experiments were performed to evaluate the lipid profile of erythrocyte membranes which showed an upregulation in the following membrane phosphocholines (PC): PC16:0_16:0, PC 33:5, PC18:2_18:2, PC 15:1_20:4 and SM d42:1. Thus, remarkable changes in erythrocyte cytoskeletal architecture and membrane stiffness due to oxidative damage have been found under microgravity conditions, in addition to factors that contribute to the plasticity of the red blood cells (RBCs) including shape, size, cell viscosity and membrane rigidity. This study represents our first investigation into the effects of microgravity on erythrocytes and will be followed by other experiments towards understanding the behaviour of different human cell types in microgravity.
Significance of Autoantibodies to Ki/SL as Biomarkers for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Sicca Syndrome
Authors: Mahler Michael , Bentow Chelsea , Aure Mary-Ann , Fritzler Marvin J. , Satoh Minoru
Published: June 2022

Anti-Ki/SL antibodies were first described in 1981 and have been associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sicca syndrome. Despite the long history, very little is known about this autoantibody system, and significant confusion persists. Anti-Ki/SL antibodies target a 32 kDa protein (also known as PSME3, HEL-S-283, PA28ƴ, REGƴ, proteasome activator subunit 3), which is part of the proteasome complex. Depending on the assay used and the cohort studied, the antibodies have been reported in approximately 20% of SLE patients with high disease specificity as compared to non-connective tissue disease controls. The aim of this review is to summarize the history and key publications, and to explore future direction of anti-Ki/SL antibodies.