Search

Sulfuryl fluoride (SF) is a fumigant used to eliminate drywood termites (DWT: Kalotermitidae; Froggatt) and other structural pests. Because of its global warming potential, it has been suggested that SF be restricted as a greenhouse gas (GHG). We present an economic model to assess the net social cost of restricting SF. We consider 3 approaches to address DWT control- no treatment, allowing SF fumigation and localized treatments, and only local treatment. Each approach generates private and public benefits and costs. We estimate that the annual damage and home equity loss by DWT in California is US$4.5-16.8 billion without treatment. If fumigation is used on 20% of the houses and local treatments on the others, the combined social cost of treatment, damage, and GHG emissions are between US$1-US$2 billion annually. The annual cost of local treatments only would be between US$3.2 and US$4.9 billion. If the application of SF is severely restricted or banned, the social costs will increase between US$1.43 and US$4.31 billion annually. The implied cost per ton of CO2 eliminated is between US$624 and US$1,465, much above the price range of CO2 in other applications. The restriction/ban has significant equity and environmental effects, impacting low-income individuals living in rented properties and replacing damaged wood in housing will increase GHG emissions. We further recommend the continued use of SF until a comparable whole-structure alternative is developed that fits the parameters of our model., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) mixtures from workers of five distinct CHC phenotypes of Reticulitermes Holmgren 1913 from two locations in northern California were examined from monthly collections taken over a 3-yr period. The objectives of this study were (1) to identify and quantify variations of the CHCs of multiple colonies of each of these phenotypes (= species or subspecies) to demonstrate consistency, (2) to assess the potential of CHC mixtures to separate or identify colonies within each phenotype, and (3) to detect any temporal changes in each of the hydrocarbons in the CHC mixtures. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling of all CHC mixtures of all samples collected at both locations separated the samples into five clearly visible, different groups of CHC phenotypes (taxa or species) of Reticulitermes. The degree of variability of the CHC mixtures among colonies of each phenotype was such that nonmetric multidimensional scaling did not separate or identify colonies. Strong seasonal fluctuations were evident in some of the CHCs of all five phenotypes and were significantly consistent with a sine curve. Maximum proportions of seasonal CHCs within a phenotype occurred in all seasons of the year but occurred mostly in the winter and summer. In general, the CHCs displaying maximum values in the winter were short-chained (C23-C27) methyl-branched alkanes, whereas the CHCs displaying maximum values in the summer were long-chained (C35-C43) methyl-branched alkanes, which likely influences water retention. These consistent chemical fingerprints are probably responsible for inter-phenotype recognition patterns and are thus useful for chemical taxonomy., (Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America 2022.)

Cacao ( Theobroma cacao L.) is a shade-tolerant tree species, but in recent years it has increasingly been cultivated under full sun conditions in an orchard system where photoinhibition is likely. Here we investigate the extent of photoinhibition in 17 cacao accessions from a range of genetic groups, growing under high light conditions. The ability of the photosynthetic systems to respond to high light was assessed using chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (diurnal F v / F m and instantaneous light response curves), and differences in photosynthetic pigment content were compared using biochemical assays. Damage due to photoinhibition was assessed using electrolyte leakage, lipid peroxidation, and reactive oxygen species scavenging systems were compared using biochemical assays (for APX, CAT and SOD). There was significant variation between the 17 accessions for photosynthetic parameters, although in all cases the light saturation points were well below the midday light levels. Light acclimation of photosynthetic pigments was evident and variation in the total chlorophyll to total carotenoid ratio was significantly correlated with electrolyte leakage. Significant genetic variation was observed across the 17 accessions in the activities of CAT, APX and SOD. Across all accessions, photoprotection appeared to be restricted by the ability of leaves to generate SOD. Significant negative correlations were observed between SOD activity and both APX activity and electrolyte leakage, while significant positive correlations were observed between electrolyte leakage and both APX and CAT activity. Accessions with higher light saturation points, as well as high carotenoid and high SOD concentrations were able to tolerate the moderately high light, however, none of the accessions were clearly superior to the commonly grown Amelonado accession. The results imply that screening for SOD activity, total carotenoid content and light saturation point can aid in selection of genotypes with better tolerance to high light., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2021 The Authors.)

Background: Use of electronic clinical decision support (eCDS) has been recommended to improve implementation of clinical decision rules. Many eCDS tools, however, are designed and implemented without taking into account the context in which clinical work is performed. Implementation of the pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) clinical decision rule at one Level I pediatric emergency department includes an electronic questionnaire triggered when ordering a head computed tomography using computerized physician order entry (CPOE). Providers use this CPOE tool in less than 20% of trauma resuscitation cases. A human factors engineering approach could identify the implementation barriers that are limiting the use of this tool., Objectives: The objective was to design a pediatric TBI eCDS tool for trauma resuscitation using a human factors approach. The hypothesis was that clinical experts will rate a usability-enhanced eCDS tool better than the existing CPOE tool for user interface design and suitability for clinical use., Methods: This mixed-methods study followed usability evaluation principles. Pediatric emergency physicians were surveyed to identify barriers to using the existing eCDS tool. Using standard trauma resuscitation protocols, a hierarchical task analysis of pediatric TBI evaluation was developed. Five clinical experts, all board-certified pediatric emergency medicine faculty members, then iteratively modified the hierarchical task analysis until reaching consensus. The software team developed a prototype eCDS display using the hierarchical task analysis. Three human factors engineers provided feedback on the prototype through a heuristic evaluation, and the software team refined the eCDS tool using a rapid prototyping process. The eCDS tool then underwent iterative usability evaluations by the five clinical experts using video review of 50 trauma resuscitation cases. A final eCDS tool was created based on their feedback, with content analysis of the evaluations performed to ensure all concerns were identified and addressed., Results: Among 26 EPs (76% response rate), the main barriers to using the existing tool were that the information displayed is redundant and does not fit clinical workflow. After the prototype eCDS tool was developed based on the trauma resuscitation hierarchical task analysis, the human factors engineers rated it to be better than the CPOE tool for nine of 10 standard user interface design heuristics on a three-point scale. The eCDS tool was also rated better for clinical use on the same scale, in 84% of 50 expert-video pairs, and was rated equivalent in the remainder. Clinical experts also rated barriers to use of the eCDS tool as being low., Conclusions: An eCDS tool for diagnostic imaging designed using human factors engineering methods has improved perceived usability among pediatric emergency physicians., (© 2015 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.)

Parkinson disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurological disease that is associated with a loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the brain. The molecular mechanisms underlying the loss of these neurons still remain elusive. Oxidative stress is thought to play an important role in dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Complex I deficiencies of the respiratory chain account for the majority of unfavorable neuronal degeneration in PD. Environmental factors, such as neurotoxins, pesticides, insecticides, dopamine (DA) itself, and genetic mutations in PD-associated proteins contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction which precedes reactive oxygen species formation. In this mini review, we give an update of the classical pathways involving these mechanisms of neurodegeneration, the biochemical and molecular events that mediate or regulate DA neuronal vulnerability, and the role of PD-related gene products in modulating cellular responses to oxidative stress in the course of the neurodegenerative process.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of diabetes self-management education (DSME) provided in a large urban emergency department (ED) by a certified diabetes educator using a "learner-centered" approach to teaching survival skills. It was hypothesized that an intervention providing learner-centered education in the ED would significantly improve diabetes knowledge and self-management skills., Methods: Participants were patients who presented to the ED with uncontrolled blood glucose with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A learner-centered DSME approach was developed. Baseline knowledge and skills were assessed in the ED with a 5-question test and a request to demonstrate meter and insulin injection technique. Education focused on identified gaps in knowledge and skills and incorporated an opportunity for the patient to exercise control in the treatment process. At outpatient follow-up, knowledge retention was assessed with the same 5-question test, and skills again were tested., Results: Patients with T2DM who were provided learner-centered DSME in the ED demonstrated a significant increase in knowledge-related test scores on all questions at follow-up. Significantly fewer patients required meter and insulin injection instruction postintervention, compared to the baseline., Conclusion: Study results provide evidence supporting the effectiveness of learner-centered DSME delivered in the ED at imparting critical knowledge and skills to patients with T2DM., (© 2015 The Author(s).)

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta region of the midbrain and the formation of intracellular protein aggregates known as Lewy bodies, of which a major component is the protein α-synuclein. Several studies have suggested that mitochondria play a central role in the pathogenesis of PD, encompassing both familial and sporadic forms of the disease. Mitochondrial dysfunction is attributed to bioenergetic impairment, increased oxidative stress, damage to mitochondrial DNA, and alteration in mitochondrial morphology. These alterations may contribute to improper functioning of the central nervous system and ultimately lead to neurodegeneration. The perturbation of mitochondrial function makes it a potential target, worthy of exploration for neuroprotective therapies and to improve mitochondrial health in PD. Thus, in the current review, we provide an update on mitochondria-based therapeutic approaches toward α-synucleinopathies in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite modern medicine’s advancements, age-related neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson's disease remain challenging due to high costs, side effects, and limited accessibility. Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicine system, offers Kadha tea as a potential herbal option. This review explores Kadha’s components (basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), black pepper (Piper nigrum L.), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum J. Presl), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), and raisin(Vitis vinifera L.)) and their interaction with various neurological disorders. Studies suggest Kadha exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties, potentially impacting Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, neurotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and brain trauma. By focusing on specific disease mechanisms and Kadha's intergrade effects, this review aims to elucidate its potential role in managing age-related neurological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients undergoing hemodialysis have experienced a 43% increase in rate of hospitalization due to infection during the past 20 years. Research in other industries has shown that safe systems are achieved by considering the entire system to enable performance specifications to be met., Method: A sociotechnical systems framework was applied through the Macroergonomic Analysis and Design method to evaluate a 54-chair ambulatory dialysis unit to decrease healthcare-associated infections. Fifty-seven system discrepancies across 6 healthcare-associated infection risk factors were identified. A multicomponent intervention was developed to address 44 of the variances across 4 of the risk factors., Results: Access-related bloodstream infections and access site infections did not improve. Bacterial surface contamination decreased. Process measures for the individual components of the intervention demonstrated varying adherence to the intervention., Conclusions: Inconsistent compliance with interventions is hypothesized to be due to organizational and external environment factors., (Copyright © 2014 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Home healthcare is vital for a large percentage of the population. According to data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 7 million people in the United States receive home healthcare annually. The use of medical devices in the home and other nonclinical environments is increasing dramatically. By the year 2050, an estimated 27 million people will need continuing care in the home or in the community and not in a controlled clinical environment. 1 The FDA recently announced its Home Use Devices Initiative and issued the document, "Draft Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff-Design Considerations for Devices Intended for Home Use" on Dec. 12, 2012. 2 The Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) regulates medical devices, but that regulatory authority alone is not enough to ensure safe and effective use of devices in the home. To address these and other issues, AAMI and FDA will co-host a summit on healthcare technology in nonclinical settings Oct. 9-10, 2013.

The military, aviation, nuclear, and transportation industries have transformed their safety records by using a systems approach to safety and risk mitigation. This article creates a preliminary model of the U.S. pharmaceutical system using available literature including academic publications, policies, and guidelines established by regulatory bodies and drug industry trade publications. Drawing from the current literature, the goals, roles, and individualized processes of pharmaceutical subsystems will be defined. Defining the pharmaceutical system provides a vehicle to assess and address known problems within the system, and provides a means to conduct proactive risk analyses, which would create significant pharmaceutical safety advancement.

Acoustic emission (AE) activity patterns were measured from seven loquat [Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.] logs, five containing live western drywood termite [Incisitermes minor (Hagen)] infestations, and two without an active drywood termite infestation. AE activity, as well as temperature, were monitored every 3 min under unrestricted ambient conditions in a small wooden building, under unrestricted ambient conditions but in constant darkness, or in a temperature-controlled cabined under constant darkness. Logs with active drywood termite infestations displayed similar diurnal cycles of AE activity that closely followed temperature with a peak of AE activity late in the afternoon (1700-1800 hours). When light was excluded from the building, a circadian pattern continued and apparently was driven by temperature. When the seven logs were kept at a relatively constant temperature (approximately 23 +/- 0.9 degrees C) and constant darkness, the pattern of activity was closely correlated with temperature, even with minimal changes in temperature. Temperature is the primary driver of activity of these drywood termites, but the effects are different when temperature is increasing or decreasing. At constant temperature, AE activity was highly correlated with the number of termites in the logs. The possible implications of these findings on our understanding of drywood termite biology and how this information may affect inspections and posttreatment evaluations are discussed.

Objective and methods: The main purpose of this review is to study the impact of mercury (Hg) on the human central nervous system, focusing on its role in the development of two major neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. The review primarily aims to understand the common signaling pathways associated with mercury-induced neurotoxicity. Additionally, it comprehensively explores structure-based therapeutic inhibitors targeting key mutated proteins, suggesting potential strategies for modifying the effects of these neurodegenerative disorders. Results and conclusion: To achieve these objectives, the review highlights a significant neuropharmacological knowledge gap, not only regarding less-studied proteins but also concerning key proteins that could ultimately aid in controlling AD, such as Phosphatidylinositol-binding clathrin assembly protein (PICALM), Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), Sortilin-related receptor (SORL1), Myc box-dependent-interacting protein 1 (BIN1), and Phospholipid-transporting ATPase ABCA7 (ABCA7), and PD, such as Polyamine-transporting ATPase 13A2 (ATP13A2), Synphilin-1 (SNCAIP), F-box only protein 7 (FBXO7), Septin-4 (SEPTIN4), Neurofilament light polypeptide (NEFL), and Leucine-rich repeat serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (LRRK1). Thus, this review provides valuable insights for developing structure-based therapeutics against key proteins involved in AD and PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We implemented the Duke Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Transition Program for adolescents with SCD and investigated the knowledge about SCD; concerns and emotions about transitioning; and the initial impact of the Transition Program. Thirty-three adolescents participated in the initial study. Gaps in knowledge included ethnicities affected by SCD and inheritance of SCD. Adolescents were primarily concerned about transferring to a new medical team. There was a mix of both positive and negative emotions that varied over time. Overall, we have identified educational gaps and concerns and emotions about transitioning, which we will address through the Duke SCD Transition Program.

The reemergence of the bed bug, Cimex lectularius Linnaeus, has recently spawned a frenzy of public, media, and academic attention. In response to the growing rate of infestation, considerable work has been focused on identifying the various host cues utilized by the bed bug in search of a meal. Most of these behavioral studies examine movement within a confined environment, such as a Petri dish. This has prevented a more complete understanding of the insect's host-seeking process. This work describes a novel method for studying host-seeking behavior, using various movement parameters, in a time-lapse photography system. With the use of human breath as an attractant, we qualitatively and quantitatively assessed how bed bugs navigate their environment between its harborage and the host. Levels of behavioral activity varied dramatically between bed bugs in the presence and absence of host odor. Bed bugs demonstrated not simply activation, but attraction to the chemical components of breath. Localized, stop-start host-seeking behavior or alternating periods of movement and pause were observed among bed bugs placed in the environment void of human breath, while those exposed to human breath demonstrated long range, stop-start host-seeking behavior. A more comprehensive understanding of bed bug host-seeking can lead to the development of traps and monitors that account for unique subtleties in their behavior. The time-lapse photography system uses a large, artificial environment and could also be employed to study other aspects of the insect's behavioral patterns.

Hydrocarbon mixtures extracted from fecal pellets of drywood termites are species-specific and can be characterized to identify the termites responsible for damage, even when termites are no longer present or are unable to be recovered easily. In structures infested by drywood termites, it is common to find fecal pellets, but difficult to sample termites from the wood. When fecal pellets appear after remedial treatment of a structure, it is difficult to determine whether this indicates that termites in the structure are still alive and active or not. We examined the hydrocarbon composition of workers, alates, and soldiers of Incisitermes minor (Hagen) (family Kalotermitidae) and of fecal pellets of workers. Hydrocarbons were qualitatively similar among castes and pellets. Fecal pellets that were aged for periods of 0, 30, 90, and 365 days after collection were qualitatively similar across all time periods, however, the relative quantities of certain individual hydrocarbons changed over time, with 19 of the 73 hydrocarbon peaks relatively increasing or decreasing. When the sums of the positive and negative slopes of these 19 hydrocarbons were indexed, they produced a highly significant linear correlation (R² =0.89). Consequently, the quantitative differences of these hydrocarbons peaks can be used to determine the age of worker fecal pellets, and thus help determine whether the colony that produced them is alive or dead.

The objective of this study was to evaluate lufenuron termite bait (1,500 ppm) for the elimination of colonies of Reticulitermes hesperus Banks (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Dispersion of colonies in six baited and six unbaited sites near Placerville, CA, was determined by genetic (microsatellite) analyses. Twenty-one colonies of R. hesperus inhabited the six baited sites and eight colonies of R. hesperus occurred in the six unbaited sites. Five criteria provided a cause-and-effect link between the deployment of lufenuron termite bait and elimination of baited colonies: 1) association of foragers, as members of the same colony, in the independent monitoring stations and bait stations; 2) quantity of bait consumed; 3) abnormal physical appearance of foragers in bait stations; 4) disappearance of foragers from, and cessation of feeding in, independent monitoring stations visited by baited colonies; and 5) presence of foragers from, and continuation of feeding in, independent monitors visited by unbaited colonies. Baited colonies were devoid of foraging termites within a mean of 70.6 d (range, 37-93 d) of bait deployment. Colonies consumed a mean of 8.0 g of bait (range, 2.2-16.0 g). Wood consumption by baited and unbaited colonies was not significantly different during the 2 mo before baiting, 281.4 versus 590.5 mg/d per colony, respectively, nor during the 3 mo immediately after baiting, 112.5 versus 436.8 mg/d per colony, respectively. However, from 10 to 16 mo after baiting, wood consumption by baited colonies essentially ceased and was significantly less than the unbaited colonies, 7.9 versus 470.1 mg/d per colony, respectively.

Despite recognition of the western drywood termite, Incisitermes minor (Hagen), as one of the most economically important and destructive termite species in the USA, both its population and colony breeding structure genetically remain unclear. Here, we present primer sequences and initial characterization for 15 polymorphic microsatellite loci. In a sample of 30 individuals, representing six geographically distinct locations collected in California, USA, three to 15 alleles were detected segregating per locus. Within a single population observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.050 to 0.866., (© 2008 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2008 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.)

The western drywood termite, Incisitermes minor (Hagen), causes significant economic damage to wood structures in the United States of America, especially California. When infestation is not widespread, localized insecticide injections may be useful for remedial control. However, the extensive gallery structure of drywood termites and their tendency to aggregate at specific parts of the galleries can impact the efficacy of localized insecticide injection. Chemicals that attract termites from a distance may improve the localized insecticide injection by increasing the number of termites contacting the insecticide residues. Two volatile terpenes, α-pinene and β-pinene, commonly found in many coniferous timber trees, were applied to artificial termite galleries to determine if termites were attracted from their original aggregation site. Furthermore, we examined if adding these pinenes would improve the overall efficacy of some insecticide products for drywood termite control. Behavioral assay results showed that the treatment with pinenes increased the likelihood that drywood termites would leave their original aggregation site and contact the treated part of the gallery. When tested with the pesticide products applied in a small area away from the termite aggregation, β-pinene significantly accelerated the time course of mortality for the aqueous fipronil. The efficacy of disodium octaborate tetrahydrate dust was not influenced by the addition of pinenes. Implications for drywood termite management and future research directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bed bugs, Cimex lectularius, form day-time aggregations from which they depart at night to feed on human blood. Obtaining an initial blood meal is a critical step in the development of first instars. Previous research had shown that first instars had greater success in obtaining this essential meal when in the presence of adults than when they were alone. Methods: Feeding by bed bugs was tested in upright vertical cylindrical chambers fitted with a paper ramp to aid in climbing toward a blood feeder suspended across the upper end of the cylinder. Feeding success by the first instars was tested when they were alone in the chamber or when they were in the presence of adult females, males, or both together. Results: The mean proportions of the first instars that fed were significantly higher when they were confined with adults of both sexes or adult females than when they were confined alone or with males. Feeding by adult males was also enhanced by confinement with females. When first instars and adult females were confined together, the mean duration before first instars began feeding was longer than for females. There was no difference in feeding success by first instars confined with their mothers or nonmothers. Conclusions: Elevated feeding by first instars and adult males in the presence of females may be adaptive traits that enhance fitness. First instars must feed to avoid dehydration and starvation and to obtain resources needed for development. Adult males would benefit not only by increased feeding success but also by greater likelihood of finding a recently engorged female with which to mate. The lack of any difference in feeding success of first instars in the presence of their mothers or nonmothers argues against parental care in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to epidemiological research, as the population ages, neurological illnesses are becoming a bigger issue. Despite improvements in the treatment of these diseases, there are still widespread worries about how to find a long-lasting remedy. Several neurological diseases can be successfully treated with natural substances. As a result, current research has been concentrated on finding effective neuroprotective drugs with improved efficacy and fewer side effects. Naringenin is one potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. Many citrus fruits, tomatoes, bergamots, and other fruits are rich in naringenin, a flavonoid. This phytochemical is linked to a variety of biological functions. Naringenin has attracted a lot of interest for its ability to exhibit neuroprotection through several mechanisms. In the current article, we present evidence from the literature that naringenin reduces neurotoxicity and oxidative stress in brain tissues. Also, the literatures that are currently accessible shows that naringenin reduces neuroinflammation and other neurological anomalies. Additionally, we found several studies that touted naringenin as a promising anti-amyloidogenic, antidepressant, and neurotrophic treatment option. This review's major goal is to reflect on advancements in knowledge of the molecular processes that underlie naringenin's possible neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, this article also provides highlights of Naringenin with respect to its chemistry and pharmacokinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colonies of Reticulitermes spp. were baited with prototype and commercial Sentricon stations (Dow AgroSciences LLC, Indianapolis, IN) to test the efficacy of hexaflumuron in different concentrations and bait matrices and to document reinvasion of the foraging territories vacated by eliminated colonies. Seven colonies of Reticuliternes spp. from two sites were characterized with cuticular hydrocarbon analyses and mark-release-recapture and agonistic behavioral studies. Three colonies were observed as controls and four colonies were baited. When a connection between the bait station and the monitoring station could not be confirmed by mark-release-recapture studies, the results of the baiting were equivocal. The monitoring stations of a colony at our wildland site were devoid of termites 406 d after baiting with one Sentricon station, but became reoccupied with the same species of termites approximately 6 mo after baiting. A colony at the residential site was baited with 0.5% hexaflumuron in the Recurit II bait matrix; 60 d later termites were absent from all monitoring stations. These monitoring stations remained unoccupied for > or = 18 mo. Foraging Reticulitermes spp. appeared in three of the seven monitoring stations 18, 24, and 36 mo after baiting, respectively. Using cuticular hydrocarbon analyses and agonistic behavior studies, we determined that the Reticulitermes spp. occupying these monitoring stations were from three different colonies; none were members of the original colony destroyed by baiting. Another colony at the residential site was baited using a noncommercial, experimental bait; 52 d later termites were absent from all monitoring stations. The monitoring stations remained unoccupied for > or = 9 mo. A different Reticulitermes sp. colony invaded one monitoring station 9 mo after baiting.

Objective: The purpose of this review was to assess the current evidence regarding the associated physiological and cognitive effects of aspartame (APM) consumption and Parkinson's Disease (PD). Methods: A total of 32 studies demonstrating effects of APM on monoamine deficiencies, oxidative stress, and cognitive changes were reviewed. Results: Multiple studies demonstrated decreased brain dopamine, decreased brain norepinephrine, increased oxidative stress, increased lipid peroxidation, and decreased memory function in rodents after APM use. In addition, PD animal models have been found to be more sensitive to the effects of APM. Discussion: Overall, studies of APM use over time yielded more consistent results; however, no study has examined long-term effects on APM in human PD patients. Based on the current evidence, long-term human based observational research is needed to further investigate the potential effect of APM on PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A ketogenic diet (KD) may benefit people with neurodegenerative disorders marked by mitochondrial depolarization/insufficiency, including Parkinson's disease (PD). Objective: Evaluate whether a KD supplemented by medium chain triglyceride (MCT-KD) oil is feasible and acceptable for PD patients. Furthermore, we explored the effects of MCT-KD on blood ketone levels, metabolic parameters, levodopa absorption, mobility, nonmotor symptoms, simple motor and cognitive tests, autonomic function, and resting-state electroencephalography (rsEEG). Methods: A one-week in-hospital, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled diet (MCT-KD vs. standard diet (SD)), followed by an at-home two-week open-label extension. The primary outcome was KD feasibility and acceptability. The secondary outcome was the change in Timed Up & Go (TUG) on day 7 of the diet intervention. Additional exploratory outcomes included the N-Back task, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, Non-Motor Symptom Scale, and rsEEG connectivity. Results: A total of 15/16 subjects completed the study. The mean acceptability was 2.3/3, indicating willingness to continue the KD. Day 7 TUG time was not significantly different between the SD and KD groups. The nonmotor symptom severity score was reduced at the week 3 visit and to a greater extent in the KD group. UPDRS, 3-back, and rsEEG measures were not significantly different between groups. Blood ketosis was attained by day 4 in the KD group and to a greater extent at week 3 than in the SD group. The plasma levodopa metabolites DOPAC and dopamine both showed nonsignificant increasing trends over 3 days in the KD vs. SD groups. Conclusions: An MCT-supplemented KD is feasible and acceptable to PD patients but requires further study to understand its effects on symptoms and disease. Trial Registration: Trial Registration Number NCT04584346, registration dates were Oct 14, 2020 – Sept 13, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterospilus sicanus (Marshall, 1888) is redescribed and illustrated based on the holotype of Dendrosoter sicanus Marshall, 1888 and on recently collected material from its type locality (Sicily, Italy). Previous host records for this species are unreliable. Here, the host of H. sicanus, the rare ptinid beetle Gastrallus pubens Fairmaire, 1875, is recorded for the first time, having been reared in a historic library in Palermo, Italy. Heterospilus sicanus is compared with the similar species Telebolus (= Heterospilus) corsicus Marshall, 1888, which was described in the same monograph from Corsica (France), and it is also redescribed and illustrated. Atoreuteus ceballosi Docavo Alberti, 1960, syn. nov. is synonymised under Heterospilus sicanus (Marshall, 1888), and Hormiopterus (= Rhaconotus) ollivieri Giraud var. flava Fahringer, 1931, syn. nov. is a junior synonym of Heterospilus cephi Rohwer, 1925. A key for determination of the Western Palaearctic Heterospilus species with a striate vertex is provided and the distributions of H. sicanus and H. corsicus are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). The aims of this study were to identify oxidative stress-related hub genes, validate them through the construction of a diagnostic model, explore their interactions with miRNAs and transcription factors (TFs) and predict potential drug targets. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the substantia nigra of PD patients were identified by analyzing a combination of datasets selected from the GEO database, including GSE7621, GSE20141, GSE49036, and GSE20163. The candidate genes associated with oxidative stress were screened by determining the overlap among the DEGs, oxidative stress-related genes (OSGs) and genes in key modules with the highest cor values identified via weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA). The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases were used to perform functional enrichment analysis of these candidate genes. The hub genes were identified via protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to assess the diagnostic value of each hub gene. Then, a diagnostic model was constructed via least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression with the hub genes identified above, and the model was further validated in external validation datasets (GSE20292 and GSE20164). Gene-miRNA and gene-TF regulatory networks were predicted via the miRNet database, whereas candidate drugs were predicted via the Drug-Gene Interaction database. After analysis of the intersection of the 7975 DEGs, 434 OSGs, and 3582 genes identified through WGCNA, 76 candidate genes were identified. A total of 9 hub genes (JUN, KEAP1, SRC, GPX5, MMP9, TXN, MAPK3, GPX2, and IL1A) were identified via PPI and ROC curve analyses. A diagnostic model with the ability to reliably predict PD on the basis of the identified hub genes (AUC = 0.925) was constructed. Further analysis of these 9 genes revealed 64 targeted miRNAs, 35 TFs in regulatory networks and 86 potential therapeutic agents. Nine hub genes related to oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of PD were identified. These genes show strong diagnostic performance and could serve as therapeutic targets. These findings might facilitate the development of promising candidate biomarkers and potential disease-modifying therapies for PD., Competing Interests: Declarations Ethics Approval and Consent to Participate Not applicable. Consent for Publication Not applicable. Competing Interests The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating and the second most common neurodegenerative disorder with a high prevalence. PD has a multifaceted etiology characterized by an altered redox state and an excessive inflammatory response. Extensive research has consistently demonstrated the role of the nuclear factor E2-related factor (Nrf2) and inflammasomes, notably NLRP3 in neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, our focus was on exploring the potential neuroprotective properties of carveol in Parkinson's disease. Our findings suggest that carveol may exhibit these effects through Nrf2 and by suppressing pyroptosis. Male albino mice were treated with carveol, and the animal PD model was induced through a single intranigral dose of 2 µg/2µl lipopolysaccharide (LPS). To further demonstrate the essential role of the Nrf2 pathway, we utilized all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) to inhibit the Nrf2. Our finding showed the induction of pyroptosis as evidenced by increased levels of NLRP3 and other inflammatory mediators, including IL-1β, iNOS, p-NFKB, and apoptotic cell death indicated by positive fluoro Jade B (FJB) staining. Moreover, increased levels of lipid peroxides and reactive oxygen species indicated a significant rise in oxidative stress due to LPS. The administration of carveol mitigates oxidative stress and suppresses inflammatory pathways through the augmentation of intrinsic antioxidant defenses, primarily via the activation of the Nrf2. Conversely, ATRA reversed carveol protective effects by increasing FJB-positive cells, inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers. Taken together, our findings suggest that carveol mitigated LPS-induced Parkinson-like symptoms, partially through the activation of the Nrf2 and downregulation of pyroptosis notably NLRP3., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Parkinson's disease is a neuroprogressive disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra pars compacta. Empagliflozin (EMPA), a SGLT-2 inhibitor, is an oral hypoglycemic agent with reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The current study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of EMPA in rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease. Rats were randomly distributed among five groups as follows: control, rotenone (2 mg/kg), rotenone + EMPA (10 mg/kg), rotenone + EMPA (20 mg/kg), and EMPA (20 mg/kg) groups. They were treated for 30 consecutive days. Rotenone reduced locomotor activity and retention time on the rotarod performance test while elongated descent latency time. On the other side, EMPA corrected these behavioral changes. These results were confirmed by histological examination and number of intact neurons. Moreover, rotenone induced alpha-synuclein accumulation, reduced tyrosine hydroxylase expression, dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and homovanillic acid concentrations. On the other side, EMPA reversed such effects induced by rotenone. Depending on previous results, EMPA (20 mg/kg) was selected for further mechanistic studies. Rotenone ameliorated superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and enhanced lipid peroxidation, interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels. By contrast, EMPA opposed rotenone-induced effects on oxidative stress and inflammation. Besides, rotenone reduced the expression of pAMP-activated protein kinase (pAMPK), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and Sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1), as well as abrogated NAD+/NADH ratio. However, EMPA activated the AMPK/SIRT-1/PGC-1α pathway. Moreover, rotenone hindered the wnt/β-catenin pathway by reducing the wnt-3a level and β-catenin expression. On the other side, EMPA triggered activation of the wnt/β-catenin pathway. Collectively, EMPA may provide a promising solution for Parkinson's patients worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease caused by the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Genetic factors, inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, metabolic disorders, cytotoxic factors, and mitochondrial dysfunction are all involved in neuronal death in neurodegenerative diseases. The risk of PD can be higher in aging individuals due to decreased mitochondrial function, energy metabolism, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) function. The potential of AMPK to regulate neurodegenerative disorders lies in its ability to enhance antioxidant capacity, reduce oxidative stress, improve mitochondrial function, decrease mitophagy and macroautophagy, and inhibit inflammation. In addition, it has been shown that modulating the catalytic activity of AMPK can protect the nervous system. This article reviews the mechanisms by which AMPK activation can modulate PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies showed positive associations between milk intake and Parkinson's disease (PD) in men but not in women, but few studies were available in women. Due to the long prodromal PD phase, reverse causation represents a major threat to investigations of diet in PD; cohort studies with a long follow-up are needed. We investigated associations between intake of milk and other dairy products with PD incidence in women from the E3N cohort study (1993-2018). PD diagnoses were validated using medical records and drug claim databases. Diet was assessed via a dietary questionnaire. Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated using multivariable Cox regression models. Exposures were lagged by 5y in main analyses and longer lags in sensitivity analyses. We examined the impact of adjustment for premotor symptoms (constipation/depression). During a mean follow-up of 18.8y, 845 of 71,542 women developed PD. Main analyses showed a J-shaped association between total milk intake and PD (P-non linearity = 0.045), with a significant linear positive association among drinkers (HR/1-SD = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.01-1.18, P = 0.024), that was explained in secondary analyses by a different pattern of association for plain milk (alone or with cereals) and milk added to drinks (tea/coffee/chicory). PD incidence increased significantly with plain milk consumption (HR/1-SD = 1.08 [1.02-1.14], P = 0.014). A U-shaped relation was observed for milk added to drinks (P-non linearity = 0.038), with lower PD incidence in women with moderate consumption (HR = 0.77 [0.61-0.97], P = 0.030) and no difference between non-drinkers and those with the highest consumption (HR = 0.98 [0.79-1.21], P = 0.848). Findings were similar in analyses using longer lags and adjusted for constipation/depression. Consumption of other dairy products was not associated with PD. A J-shaped association between total milk intake and PD was explained by a different pattern of association for plain milk intake and milk added to drinks. Reverse causation is unlikely to explain a positive association of plain milk with PD incidence in women. The U-shaped relation for milk added to drinks could be explained by an interaction between milk and coffee/tea/chicory. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms., (© 2024. Springer Nature B.V.)

Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). While animal studies have supported the benefits of incretin-based therapies, including dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors, in PD, clinical research has yielded controversial results. This cohort study aimed to assess the relationship between PD incidence and the utilization of DPP4 inhibitor in diabetic patients. Using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database from 2009 to 2018, diabetic patients receiving metformin plus at least one second-line oral antidiabetic (OAD) were enrolled. The patients were categorized as DPP4 inhibitor users and non-users. Propensity score matching was employed to establish a 1:1 ratio between DPP4 inhibitor users and non-users. Among the 205,910 patients enrolled, 149 were diagnosed with PD during follow-up. The incidence rate was 0.29 per 1000 person-years for DPP4 inhibitor users and 0.55 per 1000 person-years for the non-users. DPP4 inhibitor users exhibited a significantly lower risk of PD (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.51; 95% CI 0.39–0.68). Among DPP4 inhibitor users, vildagliptin showed the strongest correlation with a reduction in the risk of PD. This study demonstrates that the use of DPP4 inhibitors along with metformin in diabetic patients is associated with a lower risk of PD compared to those using other OADs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize all studies that reported the level of oxidative and antioxidative markers in recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) patients compared to controls. Methods: We registered our study in PROSPERO (CRD42023431310). PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were searched to find relevant publications up to June 5, 2023. The standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. We included 30 articles after multiple stags of screening. Results: We found that erythrocyte superoxide dismutase and Glutathione peroxidase activity were significantly lower in patients with RAS compared to healthy controls (SMD = − 1.00, 95%CI = -1.79 to -0.21, p = 0.013, and SMD = − 1.90, 95%CI = -3.43 to -0.38, p = 0.01, Respectively). However, there was not any difference between patients with RAS and healthy controls in erythrocyte Catalase (SMD = − 0.71, 95%CI = -1.56–0.14, p = 0.10). The total antioxidant status (TAS) level, in serum was significantly lower in patients than healthy controls (SMD = − 0.98, 95%CI = -1.57 to -0.39, p = 0.001). In addition, RAS patients had higher levels of serum Malondialdehyde (MDA), Serum total oxidant status, and serum oxidative stress index than healthy controls (SMD = 2.11, 95%CI = 1.43–2.79, p < 0.001, SMD = 1.53, 95%CI = 0.34–2.72, p = 0.01, and SMD = 1.25, 95%CI = 0.25–2.25, p = 0.014, Respectively); However, salivary MDA and TAS, and serum uric acid, vitamin E and C, and reduced glutathione levels of patients with RAS were not different from that of healthy controls. Conclusions: The relationship between oxidative stress and RAS is well established in this meta-analysis. Although the molecular processes underlying the etiology of this pathology remain unknown, evidence indicating oxidative stress has a significant role in the pathogenesis of RAS has been revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDD) are incurable and the most prevalent cognitive and motor disorders of elderly. Mitochondria are essential for a wide range of cellular processes playing a pivotal role in a number of cellular functions like metabolism, intracellular signaling, apoptosis, and immunity. A plethora of evidence indicates the central role of mitochondrial functions in pathogenesis of many aging related NDD. Considering how mitochondria function in neurodegenerative diseases, oxidative stress, and mutations in mtDNA both contribute to aging. Many substantial reports suggested the involvement of numerous contributing factors including, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, mitophagy, accumulation of somatic mtDNA mutations, compromised mitochondrial dynamics, and transport within axons in neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Therapies therefore target fundamental mitochondrial processes such as energy metabolism, free-radical generation, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial redox state, mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial protein synthesis, mitochondrial quality control, and metabolism hold great promise to develop pharmacological based therapies in NDD. By emphasizing the most efficient pharmacological strategies to target dysfunction of mitochondria in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, this review serves the scientific community engaged in translational medical science by focusing on the establishment of novel, mitochondria-targeted treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subterranean termites in the genus Reticulitermes Holmgren 1913 are among the most economically important wood-destroying pests in the western United States. Yet, there remains uncertainty regarding the taxonomy and biology of the species in this genus. The 2 species described as having distributions in this region are the western subterranean termite, Reticulitermes hesperus Banks, and the arid land subterranean termite, Reticulitermes tibialis Banks. Taxonomic studies utilizing cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles, agonistic behavior, flight phenology, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) suggested that R. hesperus is a species complex comprised of 2 or more sympatric, yet reproductively isolated species. To further delineate these taxa, we examined multiple genes from samples of Reticulitermes collected in the western United States. Alates collected after recent spring and fall mating flights, as well as previously collected workers, were subjected to CHC phenotyping and DNA sequence analyses that targeted mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit II (COII), mitochondrial 16S rRNA, and nuclear Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 and 2 (ITS1 and 2). Phylogenetic analyses conducted also included published sequences of other putative western Reticulitermes species. Results suggest that at least 5 species of Reticulitermes may be present in California and that Reticulitermes in Arizona consistently group into multiple clades, including samples previously identified as R. tibialis in a sister clade. These analyses further support the species status of qualitatively different CHC phenotypes and that alates swarming in spring vs. fall are reproductively isolated species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bed bugs, Cimex lectularius L. and C. hemipterus (F.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) are hematophagous ectoparasites of humans. Since the resurgence of bed bugs in the late 1990s there has been a corresponding emphasis on development and implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) programs to manage infestations. One critical requirement of IPM is the ability to detect and monitor the target pest. We outline and describe the majority of all known existing devices and technologies developed for bed bug detection and monitoring as well as much of the underlying science. Almost 40 detection and monitoring products have flooded the marketplace, but for various reasons, including price, size, complexity and lack of independent scientific evaluation, they have not been widely adopted for IPM in structures. One product, the ClimbUp® Insect Interceptor, has nine competitors that utilize a similar design. This review also discloses many other technologies and products that are either too expensive or too impractical for use as either consumer or industrial products. We conclude that there is a critical need for inexpensive and effective detection and monitoring traps and lures suitable for widespread adoption by the urban pest control industry. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry., (© 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.)

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, but no disease modifying therapies have been successful in clinical translation presenting a major unmet medical need. A promising target is alpha-synuclein or its aggregated form, which accumulates in the brain of PD patients as Lewy bodies. While it is not entirely clear which alpha-synuclein protein species is disease relevant, mere overexpression of alpha-synuclein in hereditary forms leads to neurodegeneration. To specifically address gene regulation of alpha-synuclein, we developed a CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system based on the nuclease dead S. aureus Cas9 (SadCas9) fused with the transcriptional repressor domain Krueppel-associated box to controllably repress alpha-synuclein expression at the transcriptional level. We screened single guide (sg)RNAs across the SNCA promoter and identified several sgRNAs that mediate downregulation of alpha-synuclein at varying levels. CRISPRi downregulation of alpha-synuclein in iPSC-derived neuronal cultures from a patient with an SNCA genomic triplication showed functional recovery by reduction of oxidative stress and mitochondrial DNA damage. Our results are proof-of-concept in vitro for precision medicine by targeting the SNCA gene promoter. The SNCA CRISPRi approach presents a new model to understand safe levels of alpha-synuclein downregulation and a novel therapeutic strategy for PD and related alpha-synucleinopathies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by deposition of α-synuclein and aggregation of Lewy bodies. Cholesterol is involved with PD neuropathology in bidirectional ways that could be protective or harmful. Thus, the objective of the present review was to verify the potential role of cholesterol in PD neuropathology. Deregulation of ion channels and receptors induced by cholesterol alteration suggests a possible mechanism for the neuroprotective effects of cholesterol against PD development. However, high serum cholesterol level increases PD risk indirectly by 27-hydroxycholesterol which induces oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Besides, hypercholesterolemia triggers the accumulation of cholesterol in macrophages and immune cells leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines with progression of neuroinflammation subsequently. Additionally, cholesterol increases aggregation of α-synuclein and induces degeneration of dopaminergic neurons (DN) in the substantia nigra (SN). Hypercholesterolemia may lead to cellular Ca2+ overload causing synaptic and the development of neurodegeneration. In conclusion, cholesterol has bidirectional effects on PD neuropathology and might be protective or harmful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas is the property of Universidad de Santiago de Chile and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Research on road safety has focused on analyzing the factors that affect crashes. However, previous studies have often neglected differences in crash causation among heterogeneous clusters of drivers. In particular, the differences in the combined effect mechanisms of the factors in the risk scenarios have not been completely explained. Therefore, this study used the K-means algorithm to perform multidimensional feature homogeneous clustering for drivers involved in crashes and near-crashes. Structural equation modeling involving mediating effects was introduced to explore the direct and indirect effects of each influencing factor on vehicle crashes under risk scenarios and compare the differences in crash causation among different driver clusters. The results indicate that the drivers who experienced the risk scenarios can be classified into two homogeneous driver clusters. Significant differences exist in the demographic characteristics, intrinsic driving characteristics, and crash rates between them. In the risk scenario, traffic factors, distraction state, crash avoidance reaction, and maneuver judgment directly affect the crash outcomes of the two cluster drivers. Demographic characteristics and environmental factors have fewer direct influence on the crash outcomes of two-cluster drivers, but produce more complex mediating effects. Analysis of the differences in the influence of factors between clusters indicates that the fundamental cause of crashes for cluster 1 drivers includes poor driving skills. In contrast, cluster 2 drivers' crashes were more influenced by traffic conditions and their safety awareness. The analysis method of this study can be used to develop more targeted road safety policies to reduce the occurrence of vehicle crashes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light availability is a primary factor influencing the growth and survival of tree seedlings in the forest understory. The effects of growth irradiance on the growth, photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters of an evergreen shrub, Gardenia jasminoides, were investigated with three levels of light: full light, 52.2% light and 18.2% light. The results showed that G. jasminoides grown under 18.2% light attained the lowest plant height and the highest crown diameter. The highest and lowest values of ground diameter were obtained in the 52.2% light and 18.2% light environments, respectively. Leaf area increased in plants grown under shade conditions. G. jasminoides grown under 52.2% light had the greatest leaf biomass, stem biomass and total biomass. Shade resulted in significant reductions in electron transport rate through PSII (ETR), photochemical quenching (qP) and nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ). Plants grown under shade conditions had lower heat dissipation in the antenna and higher excess energy. Chlorophyll (Chl) a, Chl b, Chl (a + b) and carotenoids (Car) increased and the Chl a/b ratio decreased in response to shade. Area-based photosynthesis (Aarea), stomatal conductance (gs) and transpiration rate (E) decreased significantly with decreasing growth irradiance, while there was no significant difference in mass-based photosynthesis (Amass) between full light and 52.2% light. G. jasminoides had the highest whole-plant photosynthesis (Aplant) value in 52.2% light and the lowest value in 18.2% light. The results suggest that approximately 52.2% light is the optimum growth irradiance for G. jasminoides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative illnesses (NDDs) like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and Huntington's disease have demonstrated considerable potential for gene therapy as a viable therapeutic intervention. NDDs are marked by the decline of neurons, resulting in changes in both behavior and pathology within the body. Strikingly, only symptomatic management is available without a cure for the NDDs. There is an unmet need for a permanent therapeutic approach. Many studies have been going on to target the newer therapeutic molecular targets for NDDs including gene-based therapy. Gene therapy has the potential to provide therapeutic benefits to a large number of patients with NDDs by offering mechanisms including neuroprotection, neuro-restoration, and rectification of pathogenic pathways. Gene therapy is a medical approach that aims to modify the biological characteristics of living cells by controlling the expression of specific genes in certain neurological disorders. Despite being the most complex and well-protected organ in the human body, there is clinical evidence to show that it is possible to specifically target the central nervous system (CNS). This provides hope for the prospective application of gene therapy in treating NDDs in the future. There are several advanced techniques available for using viral or non-viral vectors to deliver the therapeutic gene to the afflicted region. Neurotrophic factors (NTF) in the brain are crucial for the development, differentiation, and survival of neurons in the CNS, making them important in the context of various neurological illnesses. Gene delivery of NTF has the potential to be used as a therapeutic approach for the treatment of neurological problems in the brain. This review primarily focuses on the methodologies employed for delivering the genes of different NTFs to treat neurological disorders. These techniques are currently being explored as a viable therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative diseases. The article exclusively addresses gene delivery approaches and does not cover additional therapy strategies for NDDs. Gene therapy offers a promising alternative treatment for NDDs by stimulating neuronal growth instead of solely relying on symptom relief from drugs and their associated adverse effects. It can serve as a long-lasting and advantageous treatment choice for the management of NDDs. The likelihood of developing NDDs increases with age as a result of neuronal degradation in the brain. Gene therapy is an optimal approach for promoting neuronal growth through the introduction of nerve growth factor genes., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Thymoquinone (THQ) and its nanoformulation (NFs) have emerged as promising candidates for the treatment of neurological diseases due to their diverse pharmacological properties, which include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. In this study, we conducted an extensive search across reputable scientific websites such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar to gather relevant information. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of THQ have been observed to enhance the survival of neurons in affected areas of the brain, leading to significant improvements in behavioral and motor dysfunctions. Moreover, THQ and its NFs have demonstrated the capacity to restore antioxidant enzymes and mitigate oxidative stress. The primary mechanism underlying THQ's antioxidant effects involves the regulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Furthermore, THQ has been found to modulate key components of inflammatory signaling pathways, including toll-like receptors (TLRs), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), thereby exerting anti-inflammatory effects. This comprehensive review explores the various beneficial effects of THQ and its NFs on neurological disorders and provides insights into the underlying mechanisms involved., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

This research evaluates and characterizes the acoustic emission activity generated by Reticulitermes termites as recorded by piezoelectric sensors with sensitivity in the ultrasound range (greater than 20 kHz). To this end, the acoustic emission activity was recorded under controlled conditions of temperature and moisture content in three pine wood samples in which termites were artificially inoculated: only soldiers, only workers, or a colony of workers and soldiers. Different traditional parameters of the acoustic emission signals were analyzed, in both the time and frequency domains. This study proved feasible to use acoustic emission to detect the activity of this kind of termites, although it was not possible to distinguish between workers and soldiers. It is also demonstrated that, by using several sensors, one can locate the activity of the insects, a finding of great practical interest for the accurate detection of colonies in real buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vinpocetine (VPN) is an ethyl apovincaminate that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects by inhibiting the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and phosphodiesterase enzyme 1 (PDE-1). VPN is used in the management of stroke, dementia, and other neurodegenerative brain diseases. VPN may be effective in treating Parkinson's disease (PD). Therefore, this review aimed to clarify the mechanistic role of VPN in the management of PD. VPN has protective and restorative effects against neuronal injury by reducing neuroinflammation, and improvement of synaptic plasticity and cerebral blood flow. VPN protects dopaminergic neurons by reducing oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, glutamate neurotoxicity, and regulation of Ca+ 2 overloads. VPN can alleviate PD neuropathology through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptotic and neurogenic effects. VPN through inhibition of PDE1 improves cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling in the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra (SN). VPN improves PD neuropathology through PDE1 inhibition with a subsequent increase of the cAMP/cGMP signaling pathway. Therefore, increasing cAMP leads to antioxidant effects, while augmentation of cGMP by VPN leads to anti-inflammatory effects which reduced neurotoxicity and development of motor severity in PD. In conclusion, this review indicated that VPN could be effective in the management of PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Successful implementation and utilization of Computerized Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS) in hospitals is complex and challenging. Implementation science, and in particular the Nonadoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and Sustainability (NASSS) framework, may offer a systematic approach for identifying and addressing these challenges. This review aimed to identify, categorize, and describe barriers and facilitators to CDSS implementation in hospital settings and map them to the NASSS framework. Exploring the applicability of the NASSS framework to CDSS implementation was a secondary aim. Methods: Electronic database searches were conducted (21 July 2020; updated 5 April 2022) in Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, PyscInfo, and CINAHL. Original research studies reporting on measured or perceived barriers and/or facilitators to implementation and adoption of CDSS in hospital settings, or attitudes of healthcare professionals towards CDSS were included. Articles with a primary focus on CDSS development were excluded. No language or date restrictions were applied. We used qualitative content analysis to identify determinants and organize them into higher-order themes, which were then reflexively mapped to the NASSS framework. Results: Forty-four publications were included. These comprised a range of study designs, geographic locations, participants, technology types, CDSS functions, and clinical contexts of implementation. A total of 227 individual barriers and 130 individual facilitators were identified across the included studies. The most commonly reported influences on implementation were fit of CDSS with workflows (19 studies), the usefulness of the CDSS output in practice (17 studies), CDSS technical dependencies and design (16 studies), trust of users in the CDSS input data and evidence base (15 studies), and the contextual fit of the CDSS with the user's role or clinical setting (14 studies). Most determinants could be appropriately categorized into domains of the NASSS framework with barriers and facilitators in the "Technology," "Organization," and "Adopters" domains most frequently reported. No determinants were assigned to the "Embedding and Adaptation Over Time" domain. Conclusions: This review identified the most common determinants which could be targeted for modification to either remove barriers or facilitate the adoption and use of CDSS within hospitals. Greater adoption of implementation theory should be encouraged to support CDSS implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: α-synuclein aggregation is the hallmark feature of Parkinson's disease. Both familial and sporadic forms of the disease exhibit this feature. Several mutations have been identified in patients and are associated with the disease pathology. Methods and results: We have used site-directed mutagenesis to generate α-synuclein mutant variants tagged with GFP. Fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, western blotting, cell viability and oxidative stress analysis were performed to investigate the effect of two less studied α-synuclein variants. In this study we characterized two less studied α-synuclein mutations, A18T and A29S, in the well-established yeast model. Our data shows variable expression, distribution and toxicity of the protein in the mutant variants A18T, A29S, A53T and WT. The cells expressing the double mutant variant A18T/A53T showed the most increase in the aggregation phenotype and also depicted reduced viability suggesting a more substantial effect of this variant. Conclusion: The outcome of our study highlights the variable localization, aggregation phenotype and toxicity of the studied α-synuclein variants. This underscores the importance of in-depth analysis of every disease-associated mutation which may result in variable cellular phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise of research. Natural history collections are essential resources for taxonomy, systematics, and ecological and climate change research. Mass digitization of these collections provides the opportunity to study broad biological patterns among specimens and their associated metadata at a scale that was previously impossible. The specimen metadata can also be used to study the contributions of the people that collected and identified these specimens. A proper accounting of these contributions impacts our understanding of the history of these collections and who played a role in their growth. Methodology. Here, we provide an assessment of the scientific contributions of past women in science at the Smithsonian Institution, focusing on their specimen collections and identifications. We evaluate natural history specimen collections records available from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility and Smithsonian annual reports, volumes dating to the founding of the Smithsonian in 1846. Pivotal results. We identify 40 women with specimen collections or identifications, with a total of more than 120,000 total specimens attributed to them. In cases where specimens are not yet digitized, we are able to learn more about the women's contributions using annual reports, which provide a richer picture of their work at the Smithsonian. This work relies on collaboration as well as deep institutional knowledge. We also release a semantic search application, which allows users to search the Smithsonian annual reports. Conclusions. Collections records are a rich resource, but there are significant barriers to accurate specimen attribution, which disproportionately affect women collectors and determiners. We propose ways that we might document these problems at scale and remedy cases of misattribution in digital repositories of record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many tropical species live close to their thermal limits within a narrow niche. Here, we investigate the ecophysiological limits of the tropical tree Podocarpus trinitensis , which is endemic to Trinidad and Tobago where most populations exist as isolated stands on hilltops. Five wild stands from a range of elevations were compared in the field with measurements of leaf temperature, canopy cover, stomatal conductance (gs), chlorophyll content and several chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. A parallel greenhouse experiment was used to acclimate seedlings to 'CONTROL' and 'HEAT' treatments (with mid-day air temperatures of 34.5 and 37 °C respectively), after which the above parameters were measured along with photosynthetic light and temperature response curves, leaf morphology and in vitro Fv/Fm thermostability. There was a positive association between improved physiological performance and elevation. In the high elevation sites, leaf temperatures were significantly lower while most of the physiological parameters were higher (gs , chlorophyll content, ɸ PSII, ETR max and I sat90). In the greenhouse, HEAT and CONTROL plants were similar for most parameters, except leaf temperature (which was coupled with air temperature) and leaf mass per unit area (which was higher in HEAT plants). Temperature response curves showed an optimum temperature for photosynthesis of 30 ± 0.5 °C (T Opt) and in vitro Fv/Fm indicated a critical temperature of 47.4 ± 0.38 °C for HEAT and 48.2 ± 0.24 °C for CONTROL (T 50), with no indication of heat acclimation. Podocarpus trinitensis was found to be shade tolerant. In the field, seedlings established under a close canopy (>95% canopy cover) and had a low light saturation point (LCP). In the greenhouse, where more light was available, seedlings retained a low light compensation point, light saturation point (LSP) and maximum photosynthetic rate (A max). The results suggest that P. trinitensis is moderately heat tolerant with the higher elevation sites being more habitable, but stands are also able to survive near sea level under a closed canopy. The narrow niche, along with the 30 ± 0.5 °C optimum temperature for photosynthesis and the lack of thermal plasticity in critical temperature, suggests that P. trinitensis has little room to acclimate to temperatures higher than those currently experienced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]