Journal Description
Life
Life
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of scientific studies related to fundamental themes in life sciences, from basic to applied research, published monthly online by MDPI. The Astrobiology Society of Britain (ASB) and Spanish Association for Cancer Research (ASEICA) are affiliated with Life and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, CAPlus / SciFinder, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Biology) / CiteScore - Q2 (Paleontology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Life.
- Companion journals for Life include: Gastroenterology Insights, Physiologia, Hydrobiology, and Anatomia.
Impact Factor:
3.2 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.2 (2022)
Latest Articles
Switching to an Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant after Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Therapy for Diabetic Macular Edema: A Review
Life 2024, 14(6), 725; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060725 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Among working-age people, diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema are currently considered the main causes of blindness. Nowadays, intravitreal injections are widely acknowledged as a significant milestone in ophthalmology, especially for the treatment of several retinal diseases, including diabetic macular edema. In particular,
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Among working-age people, diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema are currently considered the main causes of blindness. Nowadays, intravitreal injections are widely acknowledged as a significant milestone in ophthalmology, especially for the treatment of several retinal diseases, including diabetic macular edema. In particular, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents are typically the first line of treatment; however, monthly injections are required, at least, during the loading dosage. Notably, an intravitreal 0.7 mg dexamethasone (DEX) implant (Ozurdex®, AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, IL, USA) is considered a legitimate substitute treatment for diabetic eyes that have not responded to anti-VEGF treatment. In fact, clinical trials and real-life studies have demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of an intravitreal DEX implant in treating such conditions over a period of three to six months. For this reason, wisely selecting diabetic patients might be crucial to decreasing the load of injections in clinics and hospitals. The purpose of this review is to analyze the available scientific literature to highlight the benefits, efficacy, and clinical criteria for choosing whether to switch from intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy to an intravitreal DEX implant in diabetic macular edema.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Developments in Eye Diseases)
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Open AccessReview
New Daily Persistent Headache in the Pediatric and Adolescent Population: An Updated Review
by
Paige Kalika and Teshamae S. Monteith
Life 2024, 14(6), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060724 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Purpose of review: New daily persistent headache (NDPH) is a primary headache disorder characterized by the sudden onset of continuous pain and its intractability to treatment. It is more prevalent in the pediatric population than the adult population, but remains understudied and underdiagnosed.
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Purpose of review: New daily persistent headache (NDPH) is a primary headache disorder characterized by the sudden onset of continuous pain and its intractability to treatment. It is more prevalent in the pediatric population than the adult population, but remains understudied and underdiagnosed. The purpose of the current article is to provide a current overview of new daily persistent headache in the pediatric and adolescent population, including history, pathophysiology, clinical findings, current and emerging treatment options, and the results of recent studies and meta-analyses. Recent findings: Despite recent studies and meta-analyses showing significant phenotypic overlap between chronic migraine and NDPH in the pediatric population, multiple recent studies have come to conflicting conclusions about the overlap of medication overuse in headache and pediatric NDPH. Recent studies reveal alterations in neuroimaging, particularly in functional connectivity, in patients with NDPH. Patients frequently remain treatment-refractory even to medications that have historically proven helpful in this population; however, new treatment options, including calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies, may be more effective. Summary: NPDH remains a perplexing and difficult-to-manage condition for both children and adults. Despite a higher prevalence in the pediatric population, there are relatively few studies to guide the evaluation and treatment of NDPH in pediatric and adolescent patients. Early treatment, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, should be employed to reduce disability. Overall, further studies are needed to better understand pathogenesis and to identify more effective therapeutic strategies, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Other Pediatric Primary Headaches)
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Open AccessArticle
Different Doses of Methamphetamine Are Needed to Produce Locomotor or Blood Pressure Sensitization in Mice
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Carla Letizia Busceti, Domenico Bucci, Massimiliano De Lucia, Michela Ferrucci, Mariarosaria Scioli, Albino Carrizzo, Ferdinando Nicoletti, Carmine Vecchione and Francesco Fornai
Life 2024, 14(6), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060723 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) exposure increases locomotor sensitization. However, no study has explored the occurrence of cardiovascular sensitization. The present study, carried out in mice, analyzed the following: (i) METH sensitization extending to systolic blood pressure (SBP); (ii) a potential correlation between ambulatory and cardiovascular
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Methamphetamine (METH) exposure increases locomotor sensitization. However, no study has explored the occurrence of cardiovascular sensitization. The present study, carried out in mice, analyzed the following: (i) METH sensitization extending to systolic blood pressure (SBP); (ii) a potential correlation between ambulatory and cardiovascular sensitization; and (iii) morphological alterations within meso-striatal, meso-limbic and pontine catecholamine systems including c-fos expression. Locomotor activity, SBP and occurrence of morphological alterations of catecholaminergic neurons were assessed in C57Bl/6J mice following daily i.p. injections of either saline or METH (1, 2 or 5 mg/kg) for 5 consecutive days and following 6 days of withdrawal. Reiterated exposure to the lower doses of METH (1 mg/kg and 2 mg/kg) produced in mice locomotor sensitization without altering SBP. In contrast, repeated treatment with the highest dose of METH (5 mg/kg) produced sensitization of SBP in the absence of locomotor sensitization. No morphological alterations but increases in c-fos expression within neurons of locus coeruleus and nucleus accumbens were detected. The present data suggest that METH produces plastic changes that extend beyond the motor systems to alter autonomic regulation. This cardiovascular sensitization occurs independently of locomotor sensitization. The persistency of increased blood pressure may underlie specific mechanisms operating in producing hypertension.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular Diseases: From Basic Research to Clinical Application–2nd Edition)
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Open AccessReview
An Update on Physiopathological Roles of Akt in the ReprodAKTive Mammalian Ovary
by
Carlo Giaccari, Sevastiani Antonouli, George Anifandis, Sandra Cecconi and Valentina Di Nisio
Life 2024, 14(6), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060722 (registering DOI) - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is a key signaling cascade responsible for the regulation of cell survival, proliferation, and metabolism in the ovarian microenvironment. The optimal finetuning of this pathway is essential for physiological processes concerning oogenesis, folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and embryo development.
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The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway is a key signaling cascade responsible for the regulation of cell survival, proliferation, and metabolism in the ovarian microenvironment. The optimal finetuning of this pathway is essential for physiological processes concerning oogenesis, folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and embryo development. The dysregulation of PI3K/Akt can impair molecular and structural mechanisms that will lead to follicle atresia, or the inability of embryos to reach later stages of development. Due to its pivotal role in the control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and survival mechanisms, the dysregulation of this molecular pathway can trigger the onset of pathological conditions. Among these, we will focus on diseases that can harm female fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome and premature ovarian failure, or women’s general health, such as ovarian cancer. In this review, we report the functions of the PI3K/Akt pathway in both its physiological and pathological roles, and we address the existing application of inhibitors and activators for the balancing of the molecular cascade in ovarian pathological environments.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological and Clinical Research of Germ Cells)
Open AccessArticle
Prenatal Immune Challenge Differentiates the Effect of Aripiprazole and Risperidone on CD200–CD200R and CX3CL1–CX3CR1 Dyads and Microglial Polarization: A Study in Organotypic Cortical Cultures
by
Katarzyna Chamera, Katarzyna Curzytek, Kinga Kamińska, Monika Leśkiewicz and Agnieszka Basta-Kaim
Life 2024, 14(6), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060721 (registering DOI) - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
Microglia are the primary innate immune cells of the central nervous system and extensively contribute to brain homeostasis. Dysfunctional or excessive activity of microglia may be associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. Therefore, we examined whether aripiprazole and risperidone could influence the
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Microglia are the primary innate immune cells of the central nervous system and extensively contribute to brain homeostasis. Dysfunctional or excessive activity of microglia may be associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. Therefore, we examined whether aripiprazole and risperidone could influence the expression of the Cd200–Cd200r and Cx3cl1–Cx3cr1 axes, which are crucial for the regulation of microglial activity and interactions of these cells with neurons. Additionally, we evaluated the impact of these drugs on microglial pro- and anti-inflammatory markers (Cd40, Il-1β, Il-6, Cebpb, Cd206, Arg1, Il-10 and Tgf-β) and cytokine release (IL-6, IL-10). The research was executed in organotypic cortical cultures (OCCs) prepared from the offspring of control rats (control OCCs) or those exposed to maternal immune activation (MIA OCCs), which allows for the exploration of schizophrenia-like disturbances in animals. All experiments were performed under basal conditions and after additional stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), following the “two-hit” hypothesis of schizophrenia. We found that MIA diminished the mRNA level of Cd200r and affected the OCCs’ response to additional LPS exposure in terms of this parameter. LPS downregulated the Cx3cr1 expression and profoundly changed the mRNA levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory microglial markers in both types of OCCs. Risperidone increased Cd200 expression in MIA OCCs, while aripiprazole treatment elevated the gene levels of the Cx3cl1–Cx3cr1 dyad in control OCCs. The antipsychotics limited the LPS-generated increase in the expression of proinflammatory factors (Il-1β and Il-6) and enhanced the mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory components (Cd206 and Tgf-β) of microglial polarization, mostly in the absence of the MIA procedure. Finally, we observed a more pronounced modulating impact of aripiprazole on the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines when compared to risperidone in MIA OCCs. In conclusion, our data suggest that MIA might influence microglial activation and crosstalk of microglial cells with neurons, whereas aripiprazole and risperidone could beneficially affect these changes in OCCs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology, Pathophysiology and Pharmacotherapy for Schizophrenia)
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Open AccessArticle
Phytophthora polonica and Phytophthora hydropathica from Clade 9 Associated with Alder Decline in Bulgaria
by
Petya Koeva Christova
Life 2024, 14(6), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060720 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
A number of Phytophthora species have been identified as destructive plant pathogens and invasive species. They have the potential to affect a wide range of host plants and cause diseases in agricultural and forest ecosystems. Two Phytophthora species from rhizosphere soil samples collected
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A number of Phytophthora species have been identified as destructive plant pathogens and invasive species. They have the potential to affect a wide range of host plants and cause diseases in agricultural and forest ecosystems. Two Phytophthora species from rhizosphere soil samples collected from declining Alnus glutinosa in Bulgaria were isolated in the autumn of 2022. They were identified as Phytophthora polonica and Phytophthora hydropathica according to the DNA sequence analysis of the ITS region, as well as their morphological and physiological characteristics. The pathogenicity of both species to common and gray alder was evaluated by the inoculation of detached leaves and cuttings. Experimental data proved that P. polonica and P. hydropathica are able to cause leaf necrosis not only on A. glutinosa from which they were derived, but also on A. incana. No significant deference in the aggressiveness of the studied isolates from both Phytophthora species against the two tested plants was observed. Therefore, P. polonica and P. hydropathica were determined as potential threats for alder ecosystems in the country. This is the first report for the isolation of P. polonica in Bulgaria and represents the most southeastern point of the species distribution in Europe.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends in Microbiology 2024)
Open AccessArticle
From Zero to Hero: The Cyanide-Free Formation of Amino Acids and Amides from Acetylene, Ammonia and Carbon Monoxide in Aqueous Environments in a Simulated Hadean Scenario
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Christian Seitz, Thomas Geisberger, Alexander Richard West, Jessica Fertl, Wolfgang Eisenreich and Claudia Huber
Life 2024, 14(6), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060719 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Amino acids are one of the most important building blocks of life. During the biochemical process of translation, cells sequentially connect amino acids via amide bonds to synthesize proteins, using the genetic information in messenger RNA (mRNA) as a template. From a prebiotic
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Amino acids are one of the most important building blocks of life. During the biochemical process of translation, cells sequentially connect amino acids via amide bonds to synthesize proteins, using the genetic information in messenger RNA (mRNA) as a template. From a prebiotic perspective (i.e., without enzymatic catalysis), joining amino acids to peptides via amide bonds is difficult due to the highly endergonic nature of the condensation reaction. We show here that amides can be formed in reactions catalyzed by the transition metal sulfides from acetylene, carbon monoxide and ammonia under aqueous conditions. Some α- and β-amino acids were also formed under the same conditions, demonstrating an alternative cyanide-free path for the formation of amino acids in prebiotic environments. Experiments performed with stable isotope labeled precursors, like 15NH4Cl and 13C-acetylene, enabled the accurate mass spectroscopic identification of the products formed from the starting materials and their composition. Reactions catalyzed using the transition metal sulfides seem to offer a promising alternative pathway for the formation of amides and amino acids in prebiotic environments, bypassing the challenges posed by the highly endergonic condensation reaction. These findings shed light on the potential mechanisms by which the building blocks of life could have originated on early Earth.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Origin of Life in Chemically Complex Messy Environments: 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Radiographic Assessment of Transverse Tarsometatarsal Instability Complicated by Metatarsus Adductus in Hallux Valgus Patients
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Shun-Ping Wang, Cheng-Min Shih, Yu-Hsien Wu and Yuan-Shao Chen
Life 2024, 14(6), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060718 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Objective evaluations of transverse tarsometatarsal (TMT) hypermobility/instability are lacking. This study aims to radiographically explore the relationship between transverse TMT instability and metatarsus adductus (MA) in hallux valgus (HV). This study retrospectively analyzed 207 feet with varying degrees of HV, employing the distance
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Objective evaluations of transverse tarsometatarsal (TMT) hypermobility/instability are lacking. This study aims to radiographically explore the relationship between transverse TMT instability and metatarsus adductus (MA) in hallux valgus (HV). This study retrospectively analyzed 207 feet with varying degrees of HV, employing the distance between the first and second metatarsals (M1-2 distance) to assess transverse TMT instability of the first ray. Participants were categorized into MA and non-MA groups. It was found that the M1-2 distance significantly increased with the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and metatarsus adductus angle (MAA), demonstrating significant differences between the MA and non-MA groups. The measurement of M1-2 distance showed high reliability, and its cutoff value was determined to be 4.05 mm. Additionally, the results suggest that the widening of the M1-2 distance may be a predisposing factor for MA in HV patients, highlighting its role in the pathogenesis of this foot condition. These findings highlight the need for a comprehensive assessment of TMT instability on both the axial and sagittal planes for the surgical planning of HV, particularly when complicated by a large MAA. Based on these insights, reoriented first-TMT arthrodesis might be recommended for HV with significant MA to address potential multiplanar instability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Studies and Treatments in Foot and Ankle Surgery)
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Open AccessReview
Benign Paroxysmal Torticollis
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Elisabetta Tozzi, Luca Olivieri and Pamela Silva
Life 2024, 14(6), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060717 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The purpose of this review is to clarify the natural course of benign paroxysmal torticollis (BPT) and update the information on the relationship of this disorder with migraine. BPT belongs to a group of “episodic syndromes that may be associated with migraine”
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Background: The purpose of this review is to clarify the natural course of benign paroxysmal torticollis (BPT) and update the information on the relationship of this disorder with migraine. BPT belongs to a group of “episodic syndromes that may be associated with migraine” and is diagnosed according to diagnostic criteria of the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition. BPT affects infants and young children and is often an underdiagnosed manifestation since it is not recognized in cases with a benign evolution, requiring a careful differential diagnosis. It was first described by Snyder in 1969 as a movement disorder, a cervical dystonia consequent to labyrinthic disorder. Materials and methods: The PubMed and Web of Science databases were consulted from 1968 to 2024, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. Results: In total, 113 articles were identified, 86 selected, and 25 considered for the purpose of this review. Clinical studies were considered in relation to evolution, cognitive, and motor development; genetic and not genetic etiology; the relationship with migraine with and without aura; vestibular migraine; hemiplegic migraine; and paroxysmal vertigo.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Other Pediatric Primary Headaches)
Open AccessReview
Crosstalk between Inflammation and Atherosclerosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Is There a Common Basis?
by
Marta Chiara Sircana, Gian Luca Erre, Floriana Castagna and Roberto Manetti
Life 2024, 14(6), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060716 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors, although present in lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, do not explain such a high burden of early cardiovascular disease in the
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Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors, although present in lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, do not explain such a high burden of early cardiovascular disease in the context of these systemic connective tissue diseases. Over the past few years, our understanding of the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis has changed from it being a lipid-centric to an inflammation-centric process. In this review, we examine the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, the two most common systemic connective tissue diseases, and consider them as emblematic models of the effect of chronic inflammation on the human body. We explore the roles of the inflammasome, cells of the innate and acquired immune system, neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes, chemokines and soluble pro-inflammatory cytokines in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, and the roles of certain autoantigens and autoantibodies, such as oxidized low-density lipoprotein and beta2-glycoprotein, which may play a pathogenetic role in atherosclerosis progression.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Manifestations and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Allergy and Hypersensitivity Reactions to COVID-19 Vaccines According to the EudraVigilance Database
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Jan Romantowski, Wojciech Nazar, Kinga Bojahr, Iwona Popiołek and Marek Niedoszytko
Life 2024, 14(6), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060715 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presented a new challenge in modern medicine: the development of vaccines was followed by massive population vaccinations. A few reports on post-vaccination allergic reactions have made patients and medical personnel uneasy as to COVID-19 vaccines’ allergic
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Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presented a new challenge in modern medicine: the development of vaccines was followed by massive population vaccinations. A few reports on post-vaccination allergic reactions have made patients and medical personnel uneasy as to COVID-19 vaccines’ allergic potential. Most of the studies in this area to date have been small, and some that were based on global databases skipped most of the allergic diseases and concentrated only on anaphylaxis. We aimed to analyze the incidence of serious allergic reactions based on the EudraVigilance (EV) database, regardless of the reported symptoms and allergy mechanism. Methods: The total number of administrated vaccine doses was extracted on 5 October 2023 from Vaccine Tracker and included all administrations since vaccinations began in the European Economic Area (EEA). Data on serious allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines were extracted from the EudraVigilance database with the same time point. The code names of 147 allergic symptoms or diseases were used. Results: The frequency of serious allergic reactions per 100,000 administered vaccine doses was 1.53 for Comirnaty, 2.16 for Spikevax, 88.6 for Vaxzevria, 2.11 for Janssen, 7.9 for Novavax, 13.3 for VidPrevtyn Beta, and 3.1 for Valneva. The most prevalent reported reactions were edema (0.46) and anaphylaxis (0.40). Only 6% of these reactions were delayed hypersensitivity-oriented. Conclusions: The overall frequency of potential serious allergic reactions to COVID-19 is very rare. Therefore, COVID-19 vaccines seem to be safe for human use. The lowest frequency of allergic reaction was observed for Comirnaty and the highest for Vaxzevria.
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(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Consequences of Maternal Vitamin D Deficiency on Newborn Health
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Ramona Elena Dragomir, Daniela Oana Toader, Daniela Elena Gheoca Mutu, Iulian Alexandru Dogaru, Laura Răducu, Laurențiu Cezar Tomescu, Lavinia Cristina Moleriu, Anca Bordianu, Ion Petre and Ruxandra Stănculescu
Life 2024, 14(6), 714; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060714 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Maternal–fetal gestational pathology is one of the biggest challenges in the field of health at this moment. The current study is designed to determine the effects of vitamin D on pregnancy, starting with the idea that impairment of vitamin D
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Background and Objectives: Maternal–fetal gestational pathology is one of the biggest challenges in the field of health at this moment. The current study is designed to determine the effects of vitamin D on pregnancy, starting with the idea that impairment of vitamin D status is thought to be correlated with impairment of the newborn’s health. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, we tried to establish the link between vitamin D deficiency and maternal characteristics and also how it impacted the clinical status of the newborn. We analyzed a group of 260 patients: 130 pregnant women and 130 newborns, in whom vitamin D status was detected using the serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH)D). Results: The results showed that vitamin D deficiency has a high incidence among pregnant women, as was presented in many important international studies. Our study also showed a positive, direct correlation between the mother’s and newborn’s vitamin D status. Conclusions: Taking into consideration that vitamin D deficiency has been correlated with many complications, both in maternal and newborn health, a serum level determination of 25-(OH)D is necessary in the first trimester of pregnancy, and after that, adequate supplementation is necessary in order to prevent any negative effects.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Stem Cells to Embryos, Congenital Anomalies and Epidemiology)
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Open AccessArticle
D-Limonene Is the Active Olfactory Attractant in Orange Juice for Bactrocera dorsalis (Insecta: Diptera: Tephritidae)
by
Leyuan Liu, Lang Yang, Jinxi Yuan, Jie Zhang, Chenhao Liu, Hongxu Zhou, Wei Liu and Guirong Wang
Life 2024, 14(6), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060713 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), poses a significant threat to the global fruit industry, causing damage to diverse fruits like citrus, mango, and guava. Chemical pesticides have limited effectiveness, and pesticide residues and pesticide resistance are pressing issues. Therefore, it is
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The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), poses a significant threat to the global fruit industry, causing damage to diverse fruits like citrus, mango, and guava. Chemical pesticides have limited effectiveness, and pesticide residues and pesticide resistance are pressing issues. Therefore, it is essential to develop environmentally friendly pest control methods to address this problem. Behavior-modifying chemicals, including male attractants and intersex protein baits, play a critical role in the control of B. dorsalis. The mature host fruit serves as both an oviposition site and food source under natural conditions, making it a potential attraction source for oriental fruit flies. Orange, Citrus sinensis, is a main host of B. dorsalis, and commercial orange juice is a common attractant for the egg laying of B. dorsalis. Although it can both attract and elicit oviposition behaviors in B. dorsalis adults, its active components are still unclear. This study utilized analytical chemistry, behavioral tests, and electrophysiology to identify the active components of commercial orange juice that attract B. dorsalis, with the aim of providing a reference for the development of behavior-modifying chemical-based techniques to control B. dorsalis. Five compounds with a high abundance were identified via a GC-MS, including D-Limonene, butanoic acid ethyl ester, β-myrcene, linalool, and α-terpineol. Behavioral and electrophysiological experiments uncovered that D-Limonene was the active substance that was the main attractant in the mixture of these five substances, evoking a strong electrophysiological response in adult B. dorsalis. D-Limonene strongly attracts adult B. dorsalis only when they are sexually mature, and the attraction is not rhythmic. Olfaction plays a leading role in the attraction of D-Limonene to adult B. dorsalis, and Orco−/− mediates the perception of D-Limonene by B. dorsalis. Overall, D-Limonene is one of the key attractant compounds for B. dorsalis in the volatile compounds of commercial orange juice, offering possible support for the development of behavior-modifying chemical-based technology to control B. dorsalis in the future.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Chemosensory-Based Behaviorally, Physiologically, and Molecularly Manipulated Technology of Pest Insects)
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Open AccessArticle
Treatment Patterns in Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Retrospective Observational Health Claims Data Study
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Gerd Horneff, Julia Borchert, Joanna Diesing, Pascal Klaus, Ria Heinrich, Heike Dally, Christine Hagemann, Simon Kock and Tonio Schönfelder
Life 2024, 14(6), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060712 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Achieving inactive disease decreases long-term joint damage in patients with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (polyJIA). The aim of our study was to describe average time to treatment and medication changes over time. (2) Methods: Incident polyJIA patients were retrospectively identified in
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(1) Background: Achieving inactive disease decreases long-term joint damage in patients with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (polyJIA). The aim of our study was to describe average time to treatment and medication changes over time. (2) Methods: Incident polyJIA patients were retrospectively identified in the InGef and WIG2 longitudinal health claims databases. Drug escalation level changes were evaluated longitudinally and cross-sectionally across three years, as follows: no treatment, glucocorticoids (GCs) and/or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs), and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). (3) Results: On average, newly diagnosed polyJIA patients received their first csDMARD prescription after 128 days and their first bDMARD prescription after 327 days. More patients were treated with csDMARDs than with bDMARDs at diagnosis; however, 24% and 12% (InGef and WIG2 databases, respectively) had no JIA treatment. After three years, 45% and 31% were not taking any treatments, while 18% and 36% were prescribed bDMARDs. Among patients initiating bDMARDs, most continued treatment for three years, with some switching to csDMARDs or discontinuing treatment. Patients treated only with csDMARDs took them longer, compared to those additionally taking other DMARDs. Patients treated with bDMARDs took them about twice as long as the csDMARDs they took prior. (4) Conclusion: A substantial number of patients with polyJIA are not treated as intensively as guidelines recommend.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical and Epidemiological Findings on Pediatric Rheumatism)
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Morphological Evolution of an Intertidal Mudflat in Relation to Mangrove Growth: Implications for Future Erosion Control
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Nguyen Tan Phong, Nguyen Bao Thuan, Le Tan Loi and Huynh Van Quoc
Life 2024, 14(6), 711; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060711 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
There is limited information regarding the influence of mangrove growth on the morphological evolution of intertidal mudflats. In this study, Tan Phu Dong district, Tien Giang Province, Vietnam, was selected for investigating how mangrove growth influenced the morphological evolution of an intertidal mudflat.
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There is limited information regarding the influence of mangrove growth on the morphological evolution of intertidal mudflats. In this study, Tan Phu Dong district, Tien Giang Province, Vietnam, was selected for investigating how mangrove growth influenced the morphological evolution of an intertidal mudflat. The authors analyzed a series of satellite images (from 1995 and 2022), calculated the enhanced vegetation index (EVI), and documented field visits and observations in pursuit of the objective of the study. The findings revealed that fine-grained sediment accumulated as unconsolidated substratum (US) in the first step of the morphological evolution of the intertidal mudflat, with sediment accumulation of 910 ha in 1995. The US provided favorable conditions for mangroves to grow, while mangrove growth helped compact the US into a compact substratum (CS) in addition to promoting continuous sediment accumulation, increased the vegetation cover of the island, and elevated the substrate density of the remaining areas. As a result, the US and CS decreased steadily between 1995 and 2020, from 910 ha in 1995 to 401 ha in 2020 and from 433 ha in 2005 to 111 ha in 2020, respectively. Meanwhile, the low-vegetation area (LVA), medium-vegetation area (MVA), and high vegetation area (HVA) gradually increased between 1995 and 2015, from 0 ha in 1995 to 104 ha in 2015, from 0 ha in 1995 to 96 ha in 2015, and from 0 ha in 1995 to 114 ha in 2015, respectively. However, the LVA decreased slightly between 2015 and 2020 due to significant sand accumulation, which significantly killed the mangrove trees. In contrast, the MVA and HVA steadily increased between 2015 and 2020, from 96 ha in 2015 to 116 ha in 2020 and from 114 ha in 2015 to 221 ha in 2020, respectively. In 2022, there was a steady increase in HVA (298 ha in 2022), although the date of the 2022 satellite retrieval was 28 January 2022. This study recommends that the technical design of the existing coastal protection works should be revised or adapted to take account of sediment accumulation as the first step in the morphological evolution of the examined intertidal mudflat, rather than mangrove growth.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal Ecosystem Biodiversity: Linkage with Anthropogenic Activities and Climate Changes)
Open AccessArticle
The In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Selected Australian Seagrasses
by
Matthew J. Perry, Mara Curic, Abigail L. Scott, Edita Ritmejerytė, Dyah U. C. Rahayu, Paul A. Keller, Michael Oelgemöller, Karma Yeshi and Phurpa Wangchuk
Life 2024, 14(6), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060710 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that seagrasses could possess potential applications in the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Five seagrass species (Zostera muelleri, Halodule uninervis, Cymodocea rotundata, Syringodium isoetifolium, and Thalassia hemprichii) from the Great Barrier Reef (QLD, Australia)
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Recent studies have shown that seagrasses could possess potential applications in the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Five seagrass species (Zostera muelleri, Halodule uninervis, Cymodocea rotundata, Syringodium isoetifolium, and Thalassia hemprichii) from the Great Barrier Reef (QLD, Australia) were thus collected, and their preliminary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated. From the acetone extracts of five seagrass species subjected to 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging antioxidant assay, the extract of Z. muelleri had the highest activity (half minimal concentration of inhibition (IC50) = 138 µg/mL), with the aerial parts (IC50 = 119 µg/mL) possessing significantly higher antioxidant activity than the roots (IC50 ≥ 500 µg/mL). A human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) assay with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) activation and LEGENDplex cytokine analysis showed that the aerial extract of Z. muelleri significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 by 29%, 74%, and 90%, respectively, relative to the LPS treatment group. The aerial extract was thus fractionated with methanol (MeOH) and hexane fraction, and purification of the MeOH fraction by HPLC led to the isolation of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (1), luteolin (2), and apigenin (3) as its major constituents. These compounds have been previously shown to reduce levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and represent some of the major bioactive components of Z. muelleri aerial parts. This investigation represents the first study of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Z. muelleri and the first isolation of small molecules from this species. These results highlight the potential for using seagrasses in treating inflammation and the need for further investigation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Medicine: Unraveling the Medicinal Effects of Plant Extracts and Functional Foods)
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Open AccessArticle
A 3-Month Modified Basketball Exercise Program as a Health-Enhancing Sport Activity for Middle-Aged Individuals
by
Konstantina Karatrantou, Konstantinos Pappas, Christos Batatolis, Panagiotis Ioakimidis and Vassilis Gerodimos
Life 2024, 14(6), 709; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060709 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Recreational team sports have received great acceptance lately, in different populations, indicating encouraging results in health-related quality of life. This study examined the efficacy of a 3-month basketball exercise program on selected indices of health (body mass—BM, body fat—BF, blood pressure—BP), functional capacity
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Recreational team sports have received great acceptance lately, in different populations, indicating encouraging results in health-related quality of life. This study examined the efficacy of a 3-month basketball exercise program on selected indices of health (body mass—BM, body fat—BF, blood pressure—BP), functional capacity (flexibility of lower and upper limbs, balance), and physical fitness (maximum strength of lower limbs, trunk and handgrip, aerobic capacity) in middle-aged individuals. Forty middle-aged individuals (males and females; 40–55 years old) were randomly divided into (a) exercise (EG; n = 20) and (b) control groups (CG; n = 20). The EG followed a 3-month modified basketball exercise program (2 times/week; 24 training units), including different basketball drills with and without the ball (dribbling, passing, pivot, stops, etc.), to improve participants’ health and physical fitness. Repeated measures ANOVA showed that the EG significantly increased their flexibility (17.23–74.88%; p < 0.001), static balance (44.76–54.69%; p < 0.001), and strength of lower limbs and trunk (11.67–13.13%; p < 0.001), while reducing BP (7.31–12%; p < 0.001), heart rate and RPE (5.30–34.37%; p < 0.001), and time during time-up-and-go test (−10.91%; p < 0.001). Handgrip strength, BM, and BF did not change following the program in the EG (p > 0.05). In the CG, the above variables remained stable. In conclusion, this program may be used to eliminate the detrimental effects of aging on health, functional capacity, and physical fitness parameters.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise and Health Related Quality of Life)
Open AccessArticle
Sentiment Analysis of Social Media Data on Ebola Outbreak Using Deep Learning Classifiers
by
Alex Mirugwe, Clare Ashaba, Alice Namale, Evelyn Akello, Edward Bichetero, Edgar Kansiime and Juwa Nyirenda
Life 2024, 14(6), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060708 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
The Ebola virus disease (EVD) is an extremely contagious and fatal illness caused by the Ebola virus. Recently, Uganda witnessed an outbreak of EVD, which generated much attention on various social media platforms. To ensure effective communication and implementation of targeted health interventions,
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The Ebola virus disease (EVD) is an extremely contagious and fatal illness caused by the Ebola virus. Recently, Uganda witnessed an outbreak of EVD, which generated much attention on various social media platforms. To ensure effective communication and implementation of targeted health interventions, it is crucial for stakeholders to comprehend the sentiments expressed in the posts and discussions on these online platforms. In this study, we used deep learning techniques to analyse the sentiments expressed in Ebola-related tweets during the outbreak. We explored the application of three deep learning techniques to classify the sentiments in 8395 tweets as positive, neutral, or negative. The techniques examined included a 6-layer convolutional neural network (CNN), a 6-layer long short-term memory model (LSTM), and an 8-layer Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) model. The study found that the BERT model outperformed both the CNN and LSTM-based models across all the evaluation metrics, achieving a remarkable classification accuracy of 95%. These findings confirm the reported effectiveness of Transformer-based architectures in tasks related to natural language processing, such as sentiment analysis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI and Precision Medicine: Using Machine Learning for Disease Diagnosis and Prediction)
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Open AccessReview
Chronic Pain Self-Management Strategies for Older Adults: An Integrative Review
by
Thaiany Pedrozo Campos Antunes, Fernanda Golçalves Jardim, Cláudia Inês Pelegrini de Oliveira Abreu, Luiz Carlos de Abreu and Italla Maria Pinheiro Bezerra
Life 2024, 14(6), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060707 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Due to the complex nature of chronic pain, especially in older adults, a biopsychosocial approach is more effective than an isolated approach for its management. Furthermore, when patients are actively engaged in their pain management, they are more likely to be successful
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Introduction: Due to the complex nature of chronic pain, especially in older adults, a biopsychosocial approach is more effective than an isolated approach for its management. Furthermore, when patients are actively engaged in their pain management, they are more likely to be successful than relying totally on others. Objective: To analyze the self-management strategies currently used by older adults with chronic pain. Method: An integrative review was conducted through seven online databases, searching for scientific studies on this topic published in the last 10 years. Results and conclusion: Fifty-eight studies were included in the final sample. Research on chronic pain self-management for older adults has increased in recent years. Although a diversity of chronic physical painful conditions are being investigated, many conditions are still under-investigated. Online and in-person strategies are currently adopted, demonstrating similar results. Positive results are evidenced by strategies including health promotion, mind control, social participation and take-action fields. Major results come from a combination of strategies focusing on biopsychosocial aspects of pain management. Results include not only the reduction of pain itself, but increased self-efficacy, adoption of health behaviors and improvement of functionality, among others, i.e., improved QoL, despite pain.
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(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)
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Open AccessReview
Patent Foramen Ovale Closure in Special Clinical Situations: More Questions Than Answers?
by
Anastasios Apostolos, Polyxeni Alexiou, Amalia Papanikolaou, Georgios Trantalis, Maria Drakopoulou, Nikolaos Ktenopoulos, Ioannis Kachrimanidis, Panayotis K. Vlachakis, Ismini Tsakiri, Grigorios Chrysostomidis, Konstantina Aggeli, Costas Tsioufis and Konstantinos Toutouzas
Life 2024, 14(6), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060706 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a remnant of the foetal circulation resulting from incomplete occlusion of the septum primum and septum secundum. Although prevalent in about 25% of the population, it mainly remains asymptomatic. However, its clinical significance in situations such as cryptogenic
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Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a remnant of the foetal circulation resulting from incomplete occlusion of the septum primum and septum secundum. Although prevalent in about 25% of the population, it mainly remains asymptomatic. However, its clinical significance in situations such as cryptogenic stroke, migraine, and decompression illness (DCI) has been well described. Recent randomised clinical trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the efficacy of percutaneous PFO closure over pharmacological therapy alone for secondary stroke prevention in carefully selected patients. Notably, these trials have excluded older patients or those with concurrent thrombophilia. Furthermore, the role of closure in other clinical conditions associated with PFO, like decompression sickness (DCS) and migraines, remains under investigation. Our review aims to summarise the existing literature regarding epidemiology, pathophysiological mechanisms, optimal management, and closure indications for these special patient groups.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Updates in Cardiovascular Medicine: Diagnosis, Treatment and Technical Aspects: 2nd Edition)
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