bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross Sectional E-Health Evaluation Study for Telemedicine and M-Health Approaches in Monitoring COVID-19 Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Authors: Alsharif Abdullah H.
Published: August 2021

Monitoring COVID-19 patients with COPD has become one of the major tasks in preventing transmission and delivering emergency healthcare services after vaccination in case of any issues. Most COVID-19-affected patients are suggested to self-quarantine at home or in institutionalized quarantine centers. In such cases, it is essential to provide remote healthcare services. For remote healthcare monitoring, two approaches are being considered in this study, which include mHealth and Telehealth. A mixed-methods approach is adopted, where survey questionnaires are used for collecting information from 108 patients and semi-structured interviews are used with seven physicians regarding mHealth and Telehealth approaches. Survey results indicated that mHealth is rated to be slightly more effective than Telehealth, and interview results indicated that Telehealth is identified to be slightly more effective than mHealth in relation to parameters including usefulness, ease of use and learnability, interface and interaction quality, reliability, and satisfaction. However, both physicians and patients opined that both mHealth and Telehealth have a promising future with increasing adoption. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that both mHealth and Telehealth are considered to be effective in delivering remote care for COPD patients infected with COVID-19 at home. Implications of the study findings are discussed.
Practice Does Not Make Perfect: The Tireless Pursuit of Achieving Perfect Sleep
Authors: Dautovich Natalie D. , Reid Morgan P. , Sabet Sahar M. , Ghose Sarah M. , Dzierzewski Joseph M.
Published: August 2021

Objective: Perfectionism is consistently identified as a predisposing and perpetuating factor for a wide range of mental health conditions and disorders. Given the unique cognitive, emotional, and physiological characteristics associated with perfectionism, perfection could have serious implications for a critical health behavior—our sleep. The current study examines the links between perfectionism and sleep health with the goal of identifying potential sleep-related beliefs as underlying mechanisms. Methods: Participants were 417 undergraduate students at a large, public university in the mid-Atlantic United States. Participants completed a one-time online survey with the Almost Perfect Scale-Revised, the Dysfunctional Beliefs about Sleep Scale, Perceived Competence Scale about their sleep, and the RU SATED sleep health scale. Results: A two-step structural equation modeling strategy was used. Greater perfectionism discrepancies predicted greater dysfunctional beliefs about sleep (β = 0.45) and worse perceived sleep competence (β = −0.33). Moreover, greater dysfunctional beliefs and worse perceived sleep competence predicted worse sleep health (β = −0.23 and 0.59, respectively). Dysfunctional beliefs and perceived sleep competence significantly mediated the effect of maladaptive perfectionism on sleep health (β = −0.302). Discussion: Dysfunctional beliefs and sleep competence emerged as mechanisms through which maladaptive perfectionism may function as a barrier to healthy sleep. Although prior research positions perfectionism as a primary correlate of poor sleep, the current study identifies the role of beliefs about sleep as the pathway from perfectionism to poorer sleep health. The results highlight the importance of addressing both maladaptive beliefs about sleep as well as beliefs about one’s own sleep competency with undergraduate students with higher maladaptive perfectionism.
Do Alcohol Prevention Programs Influence Adolescents’ Drinking Behaviors? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cho Mi-Kyoung , Cho Yoon-Hee
Published: August 2021

This study analyzed the effects of various alcohol prevention programs on the drinking behavior of adolescents. There were seven electronic databases used for the literature search. A systematic review and meta-analysis are employed for works published in Korean and English from January 2010 to April 2021, with strict inclusion criteria yielding 12 papers in the review. The type of alcohol prevention interventions included educational and motivational interventions. Six studies had more than 500 participants each, and five studies had more than 10 participating schools. The programs did not effectively reduce the frequency of drinking or binge drinking of adolescents but significantly reduced the amount of alcohol consumed. Based on the results of this study, when planning alcohol prevention programs for adolescents, it is necessary to adopt a multi-level approach, including the engagement of parents and the community.
Comparison of Random Forest and Gradient Boosting Machine Models for Predicting Demolition Waste Based on Small Datasets and Categorical Variables
Authors: Cha Gi-Wook , Moon Hyeun-Jun , Kim Young-Chan
Published: August 2021

Construction and demolition waste (DW) generation information has been recognized as a tool for providing useful information for waste management. Recently, numerous researchers have actively utilized artificial intelligence technology to establish accurate waste generation information. This study investigated the development of machine learning predictive models that can achieve predictive performance on small datasets composed of categorical variables. To this end, the random forest (RF) and gradient boosting machine (GBM) algorithms were adopted. To develop the models, 690 building datasets were established using data preprocessing and standardization. Hyperparameter tuning was performed to develop the RF and GBM models. The model performances were evaluated using the leave-one-out cross-validation technique. The study demonstrated that, for small datasets comprising mainly categorical variables, the bagging technique (RF) predictions were more stable and accurate than those of the boosting technique (GBM). However, GBM models demonstrated excellent predictive performance in some DW predictive models. Furthermore, the RF and GBM predictive models demonstrated significantly differing performance across different types of DW. Certain RF and GBM models demonstrated relatively low predictive performance. However, the remaining predictive models all demonstrated excellent predictive performance at R2 values > 0.6, and R values > 0.8. Such differences are mainly because of the characteristics of features applied to model development; we expect the application of additional features to improve the performance of the predictive models. The 11 DW predictive models developed in this study will be useful for establishing detailed DW management strategies.
Behind the Scenes of Parents Nurturing a Child with Autism: A Qualitative Study in Malaysia
Authors: Yaacob Wan Natrah Wan , Yaacob Lili Husniati , Muhamad Rosediani , Zulkifli Maryam Mohd
Published: August 2021

Many parents have experienced difficulties in parenting children with autism. We, therefore, consider a more in-depth understanding that is necessary to explore the challenges facing parents and families to provide a better outcome for both. We interviewed 21 parents of 24 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to qualitatively explore the challenges they experienced through a phenomenological framework. Four main aspects emerged as challenges to the parents: inadequate knowledge, psychological distress and stigma, lack of support, and barriers to services. These four themes reflect a lack of balance between the needs of caregivers and the services and resources or support available in the community to meet those needs. Our study contributes to an understanding of how parents perceive challenges, making it easier to take necessary action to meet their needs and ease their burden of stress. A concerted effort is needed to coordinate services across all disciplines to address these challenges.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms among Journalists Repeatedly Covering COVID-19 News
Authors: Tyson Gabriella , Wild Jennifer
Published: August 2021

The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in many journalists repeatedly covering stories related to human suffering. This study investigates whether these journalists experienced higher rates of psychological distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms than those who have been working during the pandemic yet covering stories other than COVID-19 and aims to identify what factors may protect journalists from developing trauma-related symptoms. We assessed journalists (n = 120) working during the COVID-19 pandemic using self-report measures. Journalists repeatedly covering COVID-19 stories had significantly higher psychological distress (η2 = 0.04) and PTSD symptoms (η2 = 0.08), but not depression, compared to journalists who did not report on COVID-19. Rumination and numbing in response to unwanted memories predicted PTSD symptoms (R2 = 0.53) and may be risk factors for PTSD in this population. Unhelpful resilience appraisals distinguished journalists who reported on COVID-19 and who developed distressing re-experiencing symptoms from those who similarly reported on distressing material and who did not develop symptoms. Targeting resilience appraisals may be helpful in reducing re-experiencing symptoms after trauma exposure.
Leveraging Spatio-Temporal Graphs and Knowledge Graphs: Perspectives in the Field of Maritime Transportation
Authors: Del Mondo Géraldine , Peng Peng , Gensel Jérôme , Claramunt Christophe , Lu Feng
Published: August 2021

This paper introduces a prospective study of the potential of spatio-temporal graphs (ST-graphs) and knowledge graphs (K-graphs) for the modelling of geographical phenomena. While the integration of time within GIS has long been a domain of major interest, alternative modelling and data manipulation approaches derived from graph and knowledge-based principles provide many opportunities for many application domains. We first survey graph principles and how they have been applied to GIS and a few representative domains to date. A comprehensive analysis of the principles behind K-graphs, respective data representation and manipulation capabilities is discussed. The perspectives offered by a close integration of ST-graphs and K-graphs are explored. The whole approach is illustrated and discussed in the context of maritime transportation.
Site Selection of Fire Stations in Large Cities Based on Actual Spatiotemporal Demands: A Case Study of Nanjing City
Authors: Han Bing , Hu Mingxing , Zheng Jiemin , Tang Tan
Published: August 2021

The rapid expansion of cities brings in new challenges for the urban firefighting security, while the increasing fire frequency poses serious threats to the life, property, and safety of individuals living in cities. Firefighting in cities is a challenging task, and the optimal spatial arrangement of fire stations is critical to firefighting security. However, existing researches lack any consideration of the negative effects of the spatial randomness of fire outbreaks and delayed response time due to traffic jams upon the site selection. Based on the set cover location model integrated with the spatiotemporal big data, this paper combines the fire outbreak point with the traffic situation. The presented site selection strategy manages to ensure the arrival of the firefighting task force at random simulated fire outbreak points within the required time, under the constraints of the actual city planning and traffic situation. Taking Nanjing city as an example, this paper collects multi-source big data for the comprehensive analysis, including the full data of the fire outbreak history from June 2014 to June 2018, the traffic jam data based on the Amap, and the investigation data of the firefighting facilities in Nanjing. The regularity behind fire outbreaks is analyzed, the factors related to fire risks are identified, and the risk score is calculated. The previous fire outbreak points are put through the clustering analysis, the spatial distribution probability at points in each cluster is calculated according to the clustering score, and the random fire outbreak points are generated via the Monte Carlo simulation. Meanwhile, the objective emergency response time is set as five minutes. The average vehicle speed for each road in the urban area is calculated, and the actual traffic network model is built to compute the travel time from massive randomly-distributed simulated fire points. The problem is solved by making the travel time for all simulated demand points below five minutes. At last, the site selection result based on our model is adjusted and validated, according to the planned land use. The presented method incorporates the view of the spatiotemporal big data and provides a new idea and technical method for the modification and efficiency improvement of the fire station site selection model, contributing to a service cover ratio increase from 58% to 90%.
Bacterial Antigens Reduced the Inhibition Effect of Capsaicin on Cal 27 Oral Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Chakraborty Rajdeep , Vickery Karen , Darido Charbel , Ranganathan Shoba , Hu Honghua
Published: August 2021

Oral cancer is a major global health problem with high incidence and low survival rates. The oral cavity contains biofilms as dental plaques that harbour both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial antigens, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA), respectively. LPS and LTA are known to stimulate cancer cell growth, and the bioactive phytochemical capsaicin has been reported to reverse this effect. Here, we tested the efficacy of oral cancer chemotherapy treatment with capsaicin in the presence of LPS, LTA or the combination of both antigens. LPS and LTA were administered to Cal 27 oral cancer cells prior to and/or concurrently with capsaicin, and the treatment efficacy was evaluated by measuring cell proliferation and apoptotic cell death. We found that while capsaicin inhibits oral cancer cell proliferation and metabolism (MT Glo assay) and increases cell death (Trypan blue exclusion assay and Caspase 3/7 expression), its anti-cancer effect was significantly reduced on cells that are either primed or exposed to the bacterial antigens. Capsaicin treatment significantly increased oral cancer cells’ suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 gene expression. This increase was reversed in the presence of bacterial antigens during treatment. Our data establish a rationale for clinical consideration of bacterial antigens that may interfere with the treatment efficacy of oral cancer.
Tamoxifen Sensitizes Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells to Cannabidiol by Targeting Cyclophilin-D and Altering Mitochondrial Ca2+ Homeostasis
Authors: Olivas-Aguirre Miguel , Torres-López Liliana , Gómez-Sandoval Zeferino , Villatoro-Gómez Kathya , Pottosin Igor , Dobrovinskaya Oxana
Published: August 2021

Cytotoxic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and tamoxifen (TAM) have been observed in several cancer types. We have recently shown that CBD primarily targets mitochondria, inducing a stable mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) and, consequently, the death of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cells. Mitochondria have also been documented among cellular targets for the TAM action. In the present study we have demonstrated a synergistic cytotoxic effect of TAM and CBD against T-ALL cells. By measuring the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), mitochondrial calcium ([Ca2+]m) and protein-ligand docking analysis we determined that TAM targets cyclophilin D (CypD) to inhibit mPTP formation. This results in a sustained [Ca2+]m overload upon the consequent CBD administration. Thus, TAM acting on CypD sensitizes T-ALL to mitocans such as CBD by altering the mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis.
Glutathione and Related Molecules in Parkinsonism
Authors: Asanuma Masato , Miyazaki Ikuko
Published: August 2021

Glutathione (GSH) is the most abundant intrinsic antioxidant in the central nervous system, and its substrate cysteine readily becomes the oxidized dimeric cystine. Since neurons lack a cystine transport system, neuronal GSH synthesis depends on cystine uptake via the cystine/glutamate exchange transporter (xCT), GSH synthesis, and release in/from surrounding astrocytes. Transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a detoxifying master transcription factor, is expressed mainly in astrocytes and activates the gene expression of various phase II drug-metabolizing enzymes or antioxidants including GSH-related molecules and metallothionein by binding to the antioxidant response element (ARE) of these genes. Accumulating evidence has shown the involvement of dysfunction of antioxidative molecules including GSH and its related molecules in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) or parkinsonian models. Furthermore, we found several agents targeting GSH synthesis in the astrocytes that protect nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuronal loss in PD models. In this article, the neuroprotective effects of supplementation and enhancement of GSH and its related molecules in PD pathology are reviewed, along with introducing new experimental findings, especially targeting of the xCT-GSH synthetic system and Nrf2–ARE pathway in astrocytes.
Gibberellin Signaling Promotes the Secondary Growth of Storage Roots in Panax ginseng
Authors: Hong Chang Pyo , Kim Jinsoo , Lee Jinsu , Yoo Seung-il , Bae Wonsil , Geem Kyoung Rok , Yu Jin , Jang Inbae , Jo Ick Hyun , Cho Hyunwoo , Shim Donghwan , Ryu Hojin
Published: August 2021

Gibberellins (GAs) are an important group of phytohormones associated with diverse growth and developmental processes, including cell elongation, seed germination, and secondary growth. Recent genomic and genetic analyses have advanced our knowledge of GA signaling pathways and related genes in model plant species. However, functional genomics analyses of GA signaling pathways in Panax ginseng, a perennial herb, have rarely been carried out, despite its well-known economical and medicinal importance. Here, we conducted functional characterization of GA receptors and investigated their physiological roles in the secondary growth of P. ginseng storage roots. We found that the physiological and genetic functions of P. ginseng gibberellin-insensitive dwarf1s (PgGID1s) have been evolutionarily conserved. Additionally, the essential domains and residues in the primary protein structure for interaction with active GAs and DELLA proteins are well-conserved. Overexpression of PgGID1s in Arabidopsis completely restored the GA deficient phenotype of the Arabidopsis gid1a gid1c (atgid1a/c) double mutant. Exogenous GA treatment greatly enhanced the secondary growth of tap roots; however, paclobutrazol (PCZ), a GA biosynthetic inhibitor, reduced root growth in P. ginseng. Transcriptome profiling of P. ginseng roots revealed that GA-induced root secondary growth is closely associated with cell wall biogenesis, the cell cycle, the jasmonic acid (JA) response, and nitrate assimilation, suggesting that a transcriptional network regulate root secondary growth in P. ginseng. These results provide novel insights into the mechanism controlling secondary root growth in P. ginseng.
Immunohistochemical Study of ASC Expression and Distribution in the Hippocampus of an Aged Murine Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Reimers Diana , Vallejo-Muñoz Manuela , Casarejos María José , Jimenez-Escrig Adriano , Gonzalo-Gobernado Rafael , Bazan Eulalia
Published: August 2021

Neuroinflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and is notably dependent on age. One important inflammatory pathway exerted by innate immune cells of the nervous system in response to danger signals is mediated by inflammasomes (IF) and leads to the generation of potent pro-inflammatory cytokines. The protein “apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain” (ASC) modulates IF activation but has also other functions which are crucial in AD. We intended to characterize immunohistochemically ASC and pattern recognition receptors (PRR) of IF in the hippocampus (HP) of the transgenic mouse model Tg2576 (APP), in which amyloid-beta (Aβ) pathology is directly dependent on age. We show in old-aged APP a significant amount of ASC in microglia and astrocytes associated withAβ plaques, in the absence of PRR described by others in glial cells. In addition, APP developed foci with clusters of extracellular ASC granules not spatiallyrelated to Aβ plaques, which density correlated with the advanced age of mice and AD development. Clusters were associated withspecific astrocytes characterized by their enlarged ring-shaped process terminals, ASC content, and frequent perivascular location. Their possible implication in ASC clearance and propagation of inflammation is discussed.
Changes in Phospholipid/Ceramide Profiles and Eicosanoid Levels in the Plasma of Rats Irradiated with UV Rays and Treated Topically with Cannabidiol
Authors: Łuczaj Wojciech , Jastrząb Anna , do Rosário Domingues Maria , Domingues Pedro , Skrzydlewska Elżbieta
Published: August 2021

Chronic UV radiation causes oxidative stress and inflammation of skin and blood cells. Therefore, in this study, we assessed the effects of cannabidiol (CBD), a natural phytocannabinoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, on the phospholipid (PL) and ceramide (CER) profiles in the plasma of nude rats irradiated with UVA/UVB and treated topically with CBD. The results obtained showed that UVA/UVB radiation increased the levels of phosphatidylcholines, lysophospholipids, and eicosanoids (PGE2, TxB2), while downregulation of sphingomyelins led to an increase in CER[NS] and CER[NDS]. Topical application of CBD to the skin of control rats significantly upregulated plasma ether-linked phosphatidylethanolamines (PEo) and ceramides. However, CBD administered to rats irradiated with UVA/UVB promoted further upregulation of CER and PEo and led to significant downregulation of lysophospholipids. This was accompanied by the anti-inflammatory effect of CBD, manifested by a reduction in the levels of proinflammatory PGE2 and TxB2 and a dramatic increase in the level of anti-inflammatory LPXA4. It can therefore be suggested that topical application of CBD to the skin of rats exposed to UVA/UVB radiation prevents changes in plasma phospholipid profile resulting in a reduction of inflammation by reducing the level of LPE and LPC species and increasing antioxidant capacity due to upregulation of PEo species.
Granuloma Formation in a Cyba-Deficient Model of Chronic Granulomatous Disease Is Associated with Myeloid Hyperplasia and the Exhaustion of B-Cell Lineage
Authors: Prieto-Bermejo Rodrigo , Romo-González Marta , Pérez-Fernández Alejandro , García-Macías María Carmen , Sánchez-Bernal Carmen , García-Tuñón Ignacio , Sánchez-Yagüe Jesús , Sánchez-Martín Manuel , Hernández-Hernández Ángel
Published: August 2021

Haematopoiesis is a paradigm of cell differentiation because of the wide variety and overwhelming number of mature blood cells produced daily. Under stress conditions, the organism must adapt to a boosted demand for blood cells. Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a genetic disease caused by inactivating mutations that affect the phagocyte oxidase. Besides a defective innate immune system, CGD patients suffer from recurrent hyper-inflammation episodes, circumstances upon which they must face emergency haematopoiesis. The targeting of Cybb and Ncf1 genes have produced CGD animal models that are a useful surrogate when studying the pathophysiology and treatment of this disease. Here, we show that Cyba−/− mice spontaneously develop granuloma and, therefore, constitute a CGD animal model to complement the existing Cybb−/− and Ncf1−/− models. More importantly, we have analysed haematopoiesis in granuloma-bearing Cyba−/− mice. These animals showed a significant loss of weight, developed remarkable splenomegaly, bone marrow myeloid hyperplasia, and signs of anaemia. Haematological analyses showed a sharped decrease of B-cells and a striking development of myeloid cells in all compartments. Collectively, our results show that granuloma inflammatory lesions dramatically change haematopoiesis homeostasis. Consequently, we suggest that besides their defective innate immunity, the alteration of haematopoiesis homeostasis upon granuloma may contribute to the dismal outcome of CGD.
Does Differential Receptor Distribution Underlie Variable Responses to a Neuropeptide in the Lobster Cardiac System?
Authors: Muscato Audrey J. , Walsh Patrick , Pong Sovannarath , Pupo Alixander , Gross Roni J. , Christie Andrew E. , Hull J. Joe , Dickinson Patsy S.
Published: August 2021

Central pattern generators produce rhythmic behaviors independently of sensory input; however, their outputs can be modulated by neuropeptides, thereby allowing for functional flexibility. We investigated the effects of C-type allatostatins (AST-C) on the cardiac ganglion (CG), which is the central pattern generator that controls the heart of the American lobster, Homarus americanus, to identify the biological mechanism underlying the significant variability in individual responses to AST-C. We proposed that the presence of multiple receptors, and thus differential receptor distribution, was at least partly responsible for this observed variability. Using transcriptome mining and PCR-based cloning, we identified four AST-C receptors (ASTCRs) in the CG; we then characterized their cellular localization, binding potential, and functional activation. Only two of the four receptors, ASTCR1 and ASTCR2, were fully functional GPCRs that targeted to the cell surface and were activated by AST-C peptides in our insect cell expression system. All four, however, were amplified from CG cDNAs. Following the confirmation of ASTCR expression, we used physiological and bioinformatic techniques to correlate receptor expression with cardiac responses to AST-C across individuals. Expression of ASTCR1 in the CG showed a negative correlation with increasing contraction amplitude in response to AST-C perfusion through the lobster heart, suggesting that the differential expression of ASTCRs within the CG is partly responsible for the specific physiological response to AST-C exhibited by a given individual lobster.
TGF-β/IL-7 Chimeric Switch Receptor-Expressing CAR-T Cells Inhibit Recurrence of CD19-Positive B Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Noh Kyung-Eun , Lee Jun-Ho , Choi So-Yeon , Jung Nam-Chul , Nam Ji-Hee , Oh Ji-Soo , Song Jie-Young , Seo Han Geuk , Wang Yu , Lee Hyun Soo , Lim Dae-Seog
Published: August 2021

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells are effective in the treatment of hematologic malignancies but have shown limited efficacy against solid tumors. Here, we demonstrated an approach to inhibit recurrence of B cell lymphoma by co-expressing both a human anti-CD19-specific single-chain variable fragment (scFv) CAR (CD19 CAR) and a TGF-β/IL-7 chimeric switch receptor (tTRII-I7R) in T cells (CD19 CAR-tTRII-I7R-T cells). The tTRII-I7R was designed to convert immunosuppressive TGF-β signaling into immune-activating IL-7 signaling. The effect of TGF-β on CD19 CAR-tTRII-I7R-T cells was assessed by western blotting. Target-specific killing by CD19 CAR-tTRII-I7R-T cells was evaluated by Eu-TDA assay. Daudi tumor-bearing NSG (NOD/SCID/IL2Rγ-/-) mice were treated with CD19 CAR-tTRII-I7R-T cells to analyze the in vivo anti-tumor effect. In vitro, CD19 CAR-tTRII-I7R-T cells had a lower level of phosphorylated SMAD2 and a higher level of target-specific cytotoxicity than controls in the presence of rhTGF-β1. In the animal model, the overall survival and recurrence-free survival of mice that received CD19 CAR-tTRII-I7R-T cells were significantly longer than in control mice. These findings strongly suggest that CD19 CAR-tTRII-I7R-T cell therapy provides a new strategy for long-lasting, TGF-β-resistant anti-tumor effects against B cell lymphoma, which may lead ultimately to increased clinical efficacy.
Antimicrobial Peptides from Plants: A cDNA-Library Based Isolation, Purification, Characterization Approach and Elucidating Their Modes of Action
Authors: Islam Md. Samiul , Mohamed Gamarelanbia , Polash Shakil Ahmed , Hasan Md. Amit , Sultana Razia , Saiara Noshin , Dong Wubei
Published: August 2021

Even in a natural ecosystem, plants are continuously threatened by various microbial diseases. To save themselves from these diverse infections, plants build a robust, multilayered immune system through their natural chemical compounds. Among the several crucial bioactive compounds possessed by plants’ immune systems, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) rank in the first tier. These AMPs are environmentally friendly, anti-pathogenic, and do not bring harm to humans. Antimicrobial peptides can be isolated in several ways, but recombinant protein production has become increasingly popular in recent years, with the Escherichia coli expression system being the most widely used. However, the efficacy of this expression system is compromised due to the difficulty of removing endotoxin from its system. Therefore, this review suggests a high-throughput cDNA library-based plant-derived AMP isolation technique using the Bacillus subtilis expression system. This method can be performed for large-scale screening of plant sources to classify unique or homologous AMPs for the agronomic and applied field of plant studies. Furthermore, this review also focuses on the efficacy of plant AMPs, which are dependent on their numerous modes of action and exceptional structural stability to function against a wide range of invaders. To conclude, the findings from this study will be useful in investigating how novel AMPs are distributed among plants and provide detailed guidelines for an effective screening strategy of AMPs.
Potential Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Function of Gynura procumbens Polyphenols Ligand
Authors: Kim Hun Hwan , Ha Sang Eun , Vetrivel Preethi , Bhosale Pritam Bhagwan , Kim Seong Min , Kim Gon Sup
Published: August 2021

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials of polyphenols contained in Gynura procumbens (GP) extract were systematically analyzed. Polyphenols in GP were analyzed for nine peaks using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with mass spectrometry (MS), and quantitatively determined through each standard. A total of nine polyphenolic compounds were identified in the samples and their MS data were tabulated. To determine the potential of bioactive ingredients targeting DPPH and COX-2, we analyzed them by ultrafiltration combined with LC. The results identified the major compounds exhibiting binding affinity for DPPH and COX-2. Caffeic acid, kynurenic acid, and chlorogenic acid showed excellent binding affinity to DPPH and COX-2, suggesting that they can be considered as major active compounds. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory effect of GP was confirmed in vitro. This study will not only be used to provide basic data for the application of GP to the food and pharmaceutical industries, but will also provide information on effective screening methods for other medicinal plants.
Acorn Crop, Seed Size and Chemical Defenses Determine the Performance of Specialized Insect Predators and Reproductive Output in a Mediterranean Oak
Authors: Mezquida Eduardo T. , Caputo Paula , Acebes Pablo
Published: August 2021

Seed predation is an antagonistic interaction that negatively affects the performance of individual plants and can limit plant population dynamics. In animal-dispersed plants, crop size is an important determinant of plant reproductive success through its effect on seed dispersers and predators. Seed traits, such as size or chemical composition, can also increase the tolerance to seed predators or reduce their performance. We investigated the interaction between Quercus faginea and two specialized pre-dispersal insect seed predators (weevils and moths) during two years of contrasting crop size to determine the consequences of oak reproductive investment on seed production and insect performance. Crop size was 44% lower and acorns were 32% smaller in the second year, although acorn predation by insects was proportionally similar between both years at the population level. Individual trees producing larger crops showed a lower incidence of insect predators during the year of abundant acorn production, whereas trees producing bigger acorns experienced higher seed predation rates by insects, and acorns held more insect larvae in the low crop year. Competition between insects increased when acorn production was low, and higher tannin content in acorns further constrained the number of weevil larvae developing together in the same acorn. However, the abundance and size of insect larvae produced per tree were similar between the two crop years, and this was due to larvae often depleting acorn reserves when resources were low. Oak reproductive output increased nearly two-fold during the large crop year. Crop size variation, acorn production in a given year and acorn size and chemical composition seem to be important traits for reducing damage by insect predators in Quercus faginea and improve oak reproductive success.
Multidimensional Prognostic Index and Outcomes in Older Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Survival of the Fittest
Authors: Goudzwaard Jeannette A. , Chotkan Sadhna , De Ronde-Tillmans Marjo J. A. G. , Lenzen Mattie J. , van Wiechen Maarten P. H. , Ooms Joris F. W. , Polinder-Bos Harmke A. , de Beer-Leentfaar Madelon , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Daemen Joost , Pilotto Alberto , de Jaegere Peter P. T. , Mattace-Raso Francesco U. S.
Published: August 2021

Selecting patients with a high chance of endured benefit from transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is becoming relevant with changing indications and increasing number of TAVI being performed. The aim of our study was to investigate the association of the multidimensional prognostic index (MPI) based on a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) on survival. The TAVI Care & Cure program is a prospective, observational registry of patients referred for TAVI at the Erasmus MC University Medical Center. Consecutive patients who underwent a complete CGA and TAVI were included. CGA components were used to calculate the MPI score. The impact of the MPI score on survival was evaluated using Cox regression. Furthermore, 376 patients were included, 143 (38.0%) patients belonged to the MPI-1 group and 233 (61.9%) patients to the MPI-2–3 group. After 3 years, 14.9% of the patients in the MPI-1 group and 30.5% of the patients in the MPI-2–3 group died (p = 0.001). Patients in MPI-1 had increased chances of overall survival in comparison with patients in MPI group 2–3 Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.57, (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.33–0.98)). In this study we found that the MPI tool could be useful to assess frailty and to predict which patient will have a higher chance of enduring benefit from a TAVI procedure.
Inadequate Ultrasound Examination in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hong Seung Baek , Kim Dong Hwan , Choi Sang Hyun , Kim So Yeon , Lee Ji Sung , Lee Nam Kyung , Choi Joon-Il
Published: August 2021

We aimed to systematically evaluate the incidence of inadequate US in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance and determine the risk factors. Original studies reporting the incidence or risk factors for inadequate US were identified in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane database. The pooled incidence of inadequate US was calculated using a random effects model, and subgroup analyses were performed. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was calculated for each risk factor for inadequate US. Six eligible articles were identified from 756 screened articles (4250 patients). The pooled incidence of inadequate US was 21.5%. Significantly higher rates of inadequate US were noted in studies including patients with and without hepatic observations compared with those evaluating only patients with hepatic observations (23.2% vs. 18.8%), studies using US alone compared with US plus alpha-fetoprotein (28.0% vs. 20.8%), and those using pathology and imaging as a reference standard compared with imaging only (23.2% vs. 17.9%). Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (OR = 2.3 (1.07–4.84)), Child–Pugh B cirrhosis (OR = 2.2 (1.10–4.37)), and high body mass index (OR = 2.2 (1.12–4.24)) were significant risk factors for inadequate US (p ≤ 0.04). In patients at risk of HCC, 21.5% of US surveillance was inadequate. An alternative surveillance modality might be considered in patients with risk factors.
Hemorrhoids Embolization: State of the Art and Future Directions
Authors: Rebonato Alberto , Maiettini Daniele , Patriti Alberto , Giurazza Francesco , Tipaldi Marcello Andrea , Piacentino Filippo , Fontana Federico , Basile Antonio , Venturini Massimo
Published: August 2021

Hemorrhoidal disease is a frustrating problem that has a relevant impact on patients’ psychological, social, and physical well-being. Recently, endovascular embolization of hemorrhoids has emerged as a promising mini-invasive solution with respect to surgical treatment. The purpose of this article is to review the indications, technical aspects, clinical outcomes, and future prospective of endovascular embolization of symptomatic hemorrhoid patients.
A Case-Control Study of Hip Fracture Surgery Timing and Mortality at an Academic Hospital: Day Surgery May Be Safer than Night Surgery
Authors: Ramji Alim F. , Trudeau Maxwell T. , Mancini Michael R. , LeVasseur Matthew R. , Lindsay Adam D. , Mazzocca Augustus D.
Published: August 2021

Time from hospital admission to operative intervention has been consistently demonstrated to have a significant impact on mortality. Nonetheless, the relationship between operative start time (day versus night) and associated mortality has not been thoroughly investigated. Methods: All patients who underwent hip fracture surgery at a single academic institution were retrospectively analyzed. Operative start times were dichotomized: (1) day operation—7 a.m. to 4 p.m.; (2) night operation—4 p.m. to 7 a.m. Outcomes between the two groups were evaluated. Results: Overall, 170 patients were included in this study. The average admission to operating room (OR) time was 26.0 ± 18.0 h, and 71.2% of cases were performed as a day operation. The overall 90-day mortality rate was 7.1% and was significantly higher for night operations (18.4% vs. 2.5%; p = 0.001). Following multivariable logistic regression analysis, only night operations were independently associated with 90-day mortality (aOR 8.91, 95% confidence interval 2.19–33.22; p = 0.002). Moreover, these patients were significantly more likely to return to the hospital within 50 days (34.7% vs. 19.0%; p = 0.029) and experience mortality prior to discharge (8.2% vs. 0.8%; p = 0.025). Notably, admission to OR time was not associated with in-hospital mortality (29.22 vs. 25.90 h; p = 0.685). Hip fracture surgery during daytime operative hours may minimize mortalities.
Cognitive Assessment in GNAO1 Neurodevelopmental Disorder Using an Eye Tracking System
Authors: Graziola Federica , Garone Giacomo , Grasso Melissa , Capuano Alessandro
Published: August 2021

GNAO1 gene mutations are associated with a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by developmental delay, epilepsy, and movement disorder. Eye tracking and eye movement analysis are an intriguing method to assess cognitive and language function and, to the best of our knowledge, it has never been tested in a standardized way in GNAO1. GNAO1 children are usually wheelchair-bound and with numerous motor constrains, including dystonic movements and postures, heterotropia, and hypotonia, making the cognitive assessment arduous. These contribute to the burden and disability, with a high level of frustration of caregivers and patients. We have herein demonstrated that, through an eye tracking system, six GNAO1 patients evaluated showed variable degrees of communicative intent through intentionally directed gaze. Moreover, three of these were able to complete a cognitive evaluation, and showed normal fluid intelligence and lexical comprehension. In conclusion, in GNAO1-related disorders, the degree of cognitive development is underestimated; eye tracking technologies may help in overcome these boundaries.
Unpacking the Mental Health of Nurses during COVID-19: Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Xu Xinxing , Manzoor Faiza , Jiang Shaoping , Mumtaz Ayesha
Published: August 2021

The prime objective of the present study is to test the effect of COVID-19 fear on the mental condition of nurses in the public health sector of Pakistan. This study seeks to measure the psychological distress, anxiety, and psychological well-being of nurses due to fear of COVID-19 and exposure to COVID-19. This research further reveals the moderating role of “social support” in the link between COVID-19 fear, exposure and mental health. Through a convenient sampling technique, 250 sample contributors were chosen from 12 public hospitals. The results were obtained by applying multiple regression and moderation analysis by SPSS and the Hayes process. The outcomes indicated that fear of exposure to COVID-19 affects the mental health of nurses. The findings also discovered that social support is not very constructive in the pandemic. However, we suggested that social support is the best weapon to encourage nurses to relieve their fear and minimize negative emotions.
Fibre-Reinforced Geopolymer Composites Micro-Nanochemistry by SEM-EDS Simulations
Authors: Moro Daniele , Ulian Gianfranco , Valdrè Giovanni
Published: August 2021

The focus of the present study is on fibre-reinforced geopolymer composites, whose optimization and application necessarily need a detailed chemical characterization at the micro-nanoscale. In this regard, many geopolymer composites presenting micro and nanometric architectures pose a challenge for scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (SEM-EDS) quantification, because of several potential sources of errors. For this reason, the present work reports a SEM-EDS Monte Carlo approach to carefully investigate the complex physical phenomena related to the cited quantification errors. The model used for this theoretical analysis is a simplified fibre-reinforced geopolymer with basalt-derived glass fibres immersed in a potassium-poly(sialate-siloxo) matrix. The simulated SEM-EDS spectra showed a strong influence on the measured X-ray intensity of (i) the sample nano-to-micro architecture, (ii) the electron beam probing energy and (iii) the electron probe-sample-EDS detector relative position. The results showed that, compared to a bulk material, the X-ray intensity for a nano-micrometric sized specimen may give rise to potential underestimation and/or overestimation of the elemental composition of the sample. The proposed Monte Carlo approach indicated the optimal instrumental setup depending on the sample and on the specific SEM-EDS equipment here considered.
Basidiobolus omanensis sp. nov. Causing Angioinvasive Abdominal Basidiobolomycosis
Authors: Al-Hatmi Abdullah M. S. , Balkhair Abdullah , Al-Busaidi Ibrahim , Sandoval-Denis Marcelo , Al-Housni Saif , Ba Taher Hashim , Al Shehhi Asmaa Hamdan , Raniga Sameer , Al Shaibi Maha , Al Siyabi Turkiya , Meis Jacques F. , de Hoog G. Sybren , Al-Rawahi Ahmed , Al Muharrmi Zakariya , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Al Adawi Badriya
Published: August 2021

Human infectious fungal diseases are increasing, despite improved hygienic conditions. We present a case of gastrointestinal basidiobolomycosis (GIB) in a 20-year-old male with a history of progressively worsening abdominal pain. The causative agent was identified as a novel Basidiobolus species. Validation of its novelty was established by analysis of the partial ribosomal operon of two isolates from different organs. Phylogeny of ITS and LSU rRNA showed that these isolates belonged to the genus Basidiobolus, positioned closely to B. heterosporus and B. minor. Morphological and physiological data supported the identity of the species, which was named Basidiobolus omanensis, with CBS 146281 as the holotype. The strains showed high minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) to fluconazole (>64 µg/mL), itraconazole and voriconazole (>16 µg/mL), anidulafungin and micafungin (>16 µg/mL), but had a low MIC to amphotericin B (1 µg/mL). The pathogenic role of B. omanensis in gastrointestinal disease is discussed. We highlight the crucial role of molecular identification of these rarely encountered opportunistic fungi.
Timing of Resource Addition Affects the Migration Behavior of Wood Decomposer Fungal Mycelia
Authors: Fukasawa Yu , Kaga Koji
Published: August 2021

Studies of fungal behavior are essential for a better understanding of fungal-driven ecological processes. Here, we evaluated the effects of timing of resource (bait) addition on the behavior of fungal mycelia when it remains in the inoculum and when it migrates from it towards a bait, using cord-forming basidiomycetes. Experiments allowed mycelium to grow from an inoculum wood across the surface of a soil microcosm, where it encountered a new wood bait 14 or 98 d after the start of growth. After the 42-d colonization of the bait, inoculum and bait were individually moved to a dish containing fresh soil to determine whether the mycelia were able to grow out. When the inoculum and bait of mycelia baited after 14 d were transferred to new soil, there was 100% regrowth from both inoculum and bait in Pholiota brunnescens and Phanerochaete velutina, indicating that no migration occurred. However, when mycelium was baited after 98 d, 3 and 4 out of 10 replicates of P. brunnescens and P. velutina, respectively, regrew only from bait and not from inoculum, indicating migration. These results suggest that prolonged periods without new resources alter the behavior of mycelium, probably due to the exhaustion of resources.
Constructing Divisia Monetary Aggregates for Singapore
Authors: Barnett William A. , Nguyen Van H.
Published: August 2021

Since Barnett derived the user cost price of money, the economic theory of monetary services aggregation has been developed and extended into a field of its own with solid foundations in microeconomic theory. Divisia monetary aggregates have repeatedly been shown to be strictly preferable to their simple sum counterparts, which have no competent foundations in microeconomic aggregation or index number theory. However, most central banks in the world, including that of Singapore, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), still report their monetary aggregates as simple summations. Recent macroeconomic research about Singapore tends to focus on exchange rates as a monetary policy target but ignores the aggregate quantity of money. Is that because quantities of money are irrelevant to economic activity? To examine the role of monetary quantities as potential monetary instruments, indicators, or targets and their relevance to predicting real economic activity in Singapore, this paper applies the user cost of money formula and the recently developed credit-card-augmented Divisia monetary aggregates formula to construct monetary services indexes for Singapore. We produce those state-of-the-art monetary services indexes from Jan 1991 to Mar 2021. We see that Divisia measures behave differently from simple sum measures in the period before the year 2000, while interest rates were high. Credit-card-augmented Divisia monetary services move closely with the conventional Divisia monetary aggregates, since the volume of credit card transactions in Singapore is relatively small compared with other monetary service assets. In future work, we plan to use our data to explore central bank policy in Singapore and to propose improvements in that policy. By making our data available to the public, we encourage others to do the same.