bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct B Cell Subsets in Peyer’s Patches Convey Probiotic Effects by Lactobacillus Reuteri
Authors: Liu Hao-Yu , Giraud Antoine , Seignez Cedric , Ahl David , Guo Feilong , Sedin John , Walden Tomas , Oh Jee-Hwan , Pijkeren Jan Peter van , Holm Lena , Roos Stefan , Bertilsson Stefan , Phillipson Mia
Published: February 2021

Background: Intestinal Peyer’s patches (PPs) form unique niches for bacteria-immune cell interactions that direct host immunity and shape the microbiome. Here we investigate how peroral administration of probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus reuteri R2LC affects B lymphocytes and IgA induction in the PPs, as well as the downstream consequences on 28 intestinal microbiota and inflammation susceptibility. Results: The B cells of PPs were separated by size to circumvent activation-dependent cell identification biases due to dynamic expression of markers, which resulted in two phenotypically, transcriptionally and spatially distinct subsets: small IgD+/GL7- /S1PR1+/Bcl6, CCR6-expressing pre-germinal center (GC)-like B cells with innate-like functions located subepithelially, and large GL7+/S1PR1-/Ki67+/Bcl6, CD69-expressing B cells with strong metabolic activity found in the GC. Peroral L. reuteri administration expanded both B cell subsets, and enhanced the innate-like properties of pre-GC-like B cells while retaining them in the sub-epithelial compartment by increased sphingosine-1- phosphate/S1PR1 signaling. Furthermore, L. reuteri promoted GC-like B cell differentiation, which involved expansion of the GC area and autocrine TGFβ-1 activation. Consequently, PD-1-T follicular helper cell-dependent IgA induction and production was increased by L. reuteri, which shifted the intestinal microbiome and protected against dextran-sulfate-sodium induced colitis and dysbiosis. Conclusions: The Peyer’s patches sense, enhance and transmit probiotic signals by increasing the numbers and effector functions of distinct B cell subsets, resulting in increased IgA production, altered intestinal microbiota and protection against inflammation.
Reciprocating propagation of laser pulse intensity in free space
Authors: Li Zhaoyang , Gu Yanjun , Kawanaka Junji
Published: February 2021

The constant-speed straight-line propagation in free space is a basic characteristic of light. Recently, several novel spatiotemporal coupling methods, for example, flying focus (or named sliding focus), are developed to control light propagation including velocity and direction. In the method of flying focus, where temporal chirp and longitudinal chromatism are combined to increase the degree of freedom for coherent control, tunable-velocities and even backward-propagation have been demonstrated. Herein, we studied the transverse and longitudinal effects of the flying focus in space and time, respectively, and found in a specific physics interval existing an unusual reciprocating propagation that was quite different from the previous result. By significantly increasing the Rayleigh length in space and the temporal chirp in time, the newly created flying focus can propagate along a longitudinal axis firstly forward, secondly backward, and lastly forward again, and the longitudinal spatial resolution for a clear reciprocation flying focus improves with increasing the temporal chirp. When this new type of light is applied in the radiation pressure experiment, a reciprocating radiation-force can be produced in space-time accordingly. This finding further extends the control of light and might enable important potential applications.
Association Between Dietary Onion Intake and Subclinical Hypothyroidism in Adults: A Population-Based Study From an Lodine-Replete Area
Authors: zhang Juanjuan , Gu Yeqing , Meng Ge , Zhang Qing , Liu Li , Wu Hongmei , Zhang Shunming , Wang Yawen , Zhang Tingjing , Wang Xuena , zhang xu , Wang Xing , Sun Shaomei , Zhou Ming , Jia Qiyu , Song Kun , Niu Kaijun
Published: February 2021

Background & AimsThe protective effect of onion against thyroid hypofunction has been reported in animal studies. However, in humans, the association between onion consumption and subclinical hypothyroidism are unclear. The study sought to explore the association between habitual onion intake and subclinical hypothyroidism among adult population from an iodine-replete area.ObjectiveWe aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary onion intake and subclinical hypothyroidism in Chinese populationMethodsA cross-sectional study (6,515 men and 5,290 women) was performed in Tianjin, China. Frequency of onion consumption was assessed using a valid self-administered food frequency questionnaire. Serum free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were determined by chemiluminescence immunoassay. Subclinical hypothyroidism was diagnosed with TSH >4.78 IU/mL. Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of onion intake with subclinical hypothyroidism.ResultsThe prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism was 2.56% in men and 7.18% in women, respectively. In women, the fully adjusted odds ratios [95% confidence interval (CI)] of having subclinical hypothyroidism across increasing frequency of onion intake were 1.00 (reference) for <1 time/week, 0.99 (0.74-1.34) for 1-3 times/week, 0.73 (0.53-1.01) for 4-6 times/week, and 0.66 (0.46-0.95) for ≥7times/week (P for trend <0.01). However, we observed no significant association between onion intake and subclinical hypothyroidism in men. Stratified analyses suggested a potential effect modification by age; the odds ratios (95% CI) across extreme quartiles was 0.43 (0.20, 0.87) in <40 women and 1.05 (0.49, 2.28) in >60 women.ConclusionsFrequent consumption of onion is inversely associated with subclinical hypothyroidism in adult women from an iodine-replete area. Further studies are needed to explore the casual relationship.
Exosomal miR-151-3p Induces Calcium Deposition in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells by Inhibiting Atg5
Authors: Chen Li , Zhang Rongrong , Li Jinyin , Gao Yiping , Mao Shilong
Published: February 2021

Background: Calcium deposition in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) can lead to the rigidity of the vasculature and an increase of risk in cardiac events. This study aimed to explore the role of exosomal microRNA-151-3p (miR-151-3p) in the regulation of VSMC calcification. Methods: A cellular calcification model was established using the mouse primary aortic VSMCs by β-glycerophosphate treatment. The calcium deposition was evaluated by Alizarin Red staining. The expression of miR-151-3p in exosomes was evaluated by qRT-PCR. The relationship between miR-151-3p and Atg5 was determined by bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase gene reporter assay. The exosome derived from mouse VSMCs transfected with miR-151-3p mimics/inhibitor were isolated and used to stimulate VSMCs. The expression of Atg5, α-SMA, OPN, Runx2 and BMP2 was evaluated by western blot. An animal model was established to investigate the role of miR-151-3p in exosomes.Results: MiR-151-3p was significantly upregulated in the exosomes of VSMCs treated with β-glycerophosphate. Exosomes derived from calcific VSMCs increased the calcium deposition of general VSMCs without any treatment. Exosomes derived from miR-151-3p mimics transfected VSMCs increased the expression of Runx2 and BMP2, while reduced the expression of α-SMA and OPN in general VSMCs. and exosomes derived from miR-151-3p inhibitor transfected VSMCs reversed these effects in vitro. Meanwhile, miR-151-3p served as a ceRNA of Atg5 by directly binding to the 3'UTR of Atg5. Moreover, the expression of α-SMA, OPN, Runx2 and BMP2 in vivo was consistent with the results in VSMCs in vitro.Conclusion: Our study revealed that miR-151-3p in VSMCs-derived exosomes might induce calcium deposition through regulating Atg5 expression, suggesting that miR-151-3p might be a potential biomarker for vascular calcification.
Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide-Based Protection to Combat H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress via the Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway in ARPE-19 Cells
Authors: Liang Ran , Zhao Qi , Zhu Qing , He Xin , Gao Ming jun
Published: February 2021

BackgroundAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been closely corelated to visual impairment in the elderly, in particular to the oxidative stress (OxS) and apoptosis of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP), has been ascertained to promote people’s immune system, as well as to reduce neuronal damage and blood retinal barrier disruption. Nevertheless, the protective function of LBP on AMD has not been investigated. In current study, H2O2 was utilized to stimulate the occurrence of OxS in RPE cells, aiming to investigate the protective function of LBP pretreatment and the underlying principle.Results: The experimental results indicated that LBP pretreatment had a significant efficacy to reduce oxidative damage, in combination with the increased cell viability and inhibited cell apoptosis. Besides, LBP was ascertained to modulate the expression of apoptotic proteins and to activate the nuclear-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway to protect cells. Conclusion:These results demonstrated that LBP could activate the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, hence protecting ARPE-19 cells from H2O2-induced cell damage.
Internal Mammary Node Irradiation in Node-Positive Breast Cancer Treated with Mastectomy and Taxane-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Cho Won Kyung , Chang Jee Suk , Park Seung Gyu , Kim Nalee , Choi Doo Ho , Kim Haeyoung , Kim Yong Bae , Park Won , Suh Chang Ok
Published: February 2021

Purpose: It is important to continually reevaluate the risk/benefit calculus of internal mammary node irradiation (IMNI) in the era of modern systemic therapy. We aimed to investigate the effect of IMNI on survival in node-positive breast cancer treated with mastectomy and anthracycline plus taxane-based chemotherapy.Methods and Materials: We analyzed 348 patients who underwent mastectomy and anthracycline plus taxane-based chemotherapy for node-positive breast cancer between January 2006 and December 2011. All patients received adjuvant radiotherapy with IMNI (n = 105, 30.2%) or without IMNI (n = 243, 69.8%). The benefit of IMNI for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) was evaluated using multivariate analysis and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to adjust for unbalanced covariates between the groups.Results: After a median follow-up of 95 months, the 10-year locoregional recurrence-free survival rate, DFS, and OS in all patients were 94.8%, 77.4%, and 86.2%, respectively. The IPTW-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for the association of IMNI (vs. no IMNI) with DFS and OS was 0.208 (95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.045–0.966) and 0.460 (95% CI, 0.220-0.962). In multivariate analysis, IMNI was a favorable factor for DFS (HR, 0.458; p = 0.021) and OS (HR 0.233, p = 0.018).Conclusions: IMNI was associated with improved DFS and OS in node-positive patients treated with mastectomy, post-mastectomy radiation therapy, and taxane-based chemotherapy, although the rate of locoregional recurrence was low.
A Cultural Experience to support Mental Health in People Aged 16-24 During COVID-19 Compared to a Typical Museum Website: Study Protocol of an Online Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Sheriff Rebecca Syed , Vuorre Matti , Riga Evgenia , Przybylski Andrew K , Adams Helen , Harmer Catherine J , Geddes John R
Published: February 2021

Background: Despite the high prevalence of common mental disorders in adolescents and young adults, and their association with poor health and socio-economic outcomes throughout the lifespan, many young people do not seek or receive help for such disorders. There is growing interest in the community sector in supporting mental health in young people, however, there is little by way of experimental research in this area. During the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown we designed an online cultural experience to reduce anxiety and depression and promote positive mental health in people aged 16-24. Methods/design: The O-ACE POP (Online Active Community Engagement Proof of Principle) study is a randomised controlled trial of an online cultural experience named Ways of Being, based on human centred narratives and viewpoints, compared with a typical museum website (the Ashmolean Museum). We aim to compare efficacy on mood, distress (depression and anxiety), flourishing and loneliness as well as investigating potential mechanisms of action, and feasibility of a larger scale RCT. Discussion: COVID-19 has provided a unique opportunity to design an innovative approach to supporting mental health in young adults. Findings derived from this study will allow us to evaluate the efficacy of this intervention and will inform the design of studies to further refine the resource and test it further.Trial StatusTrial Registration: NCT04663594First Registered: 11th Dec 2020 (submitted in same form 27th Nov 2020)Protocol v1.0: 3rd Dec 2020Date recruitment began: 4th Dec 2020Recruitment complete (estimate): Feb 2021
A novel structural mechanism of ribosomal stop codon readthrough in VEGF-A
Authors: Wagner Nico O. , Edwards Jerome M. , Abramovich Juliana , Gupta Paromita , Swaminathan Harish , Rouskin Silvi , D'Souza Victoria M.
Published: February 2021

The process of ribosomal recoding is generally regulated by an autonomous mRNA signal downstream of stop-codons. While structural studies have provided mechanistic insights into viral systems, no such studies exist in mammalian systems. Here we define a novel structural mechanism for the VEGF-A readthrough system and show that regulation is multifaceted and complex, requiring a multipartite set of RNA elements located at long distances that interact with each other and with hnRNP A2/B1 to synergistically enhance readthrough levels. The Ax-element downstream of the stop codon adopts a unique multistem (SL-Ax1-3) architecture: SL-Ax1 interacts with hnRNP A2/B1, while SL-Ax2 interacts with an RNA element (SL-Au1) located ~500 nt upstream at the start of the coding sequence. SL-Au1 also independently binds to hnRNP A2/B1, which manipulates an equilibrium between alternate structures— from a sequestered bulge towards one that allows for the long-range interaction with SL-Ax2. Overall, our study not only highlights the significance of structural organization of elements within the coding sequence of mRNA, but also provides a functional relevance of the closed-loop mRNA organization in non-canonical translation and suggests complex mechanisms allow for finer integration of many signals for a required output.
Limit Cycles in the Equation of Whirling Pendulum With Piecewise Smooth Perturbations
Authors: Yang Jihua
Published: February 2021

This paper deals with the problem of limit cycles for the whirling pendulum equation ẋ = y, ẏ = sin x(cos x-r) under piecewise smooth perturbations of polynomials of cos x, sin x and y of degree n with the switching line x = 0. The upper bounds of the number of limit cycles in both the oscillatory and the rotary regions are obtained by using the Picard-Fuchs equations which the generating functions of the associated first order Melnikov functions satisfy. Further, the exact bound of a special case is given by using the Chebyshev system.
Prone Position in Intubated, Mechanically Ventilated Patients with Coronavirus Disease-19.
Authors: Langer Thomas , Brioni Matteo , Guzzardella Amedeo , Carlesso Eleonora , Cabrini Luca , Castelli Gianpaolo , Corte Francesca Dalla , De Robertis Edoardo , Favarato Martina , Forastieri Andrea , Forlini Clarissa , Girardis Massimo , Grieco Domenico Luca , Mirabella Lucia , Noseda Valentina , Previtali Paola , Protti Alessandro , Rona Roberto , Tardini Francesca , Tonetti Tommaso , Zannoni Fabio , Antonelli Massimo , Foti Giuseppe , Ranieri Marco , Pesenti Antonio , Fumagalli Roberto , GRASSELLI Giacomo
Published: February 2021

Background: Limited data are available on the use of prone position in intubated, invasively ventilated patients with Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Aim of this study is to investigate the use and effect of prone position in this population during the first 2020 pandemic wave.Methods: Retrospective, multicentre, national cohort study conducted between February 24 and June 14, 2020 in 24 Italian Intensive Care Units (ICU) on adult patients needing invasive mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure caused by COVID-19.Clinical data were collected on the day of ICU admission. Information regarding the use of prone position were collected daily. Follow-up for patient outcomes was performed on July 15, 2020. The respiratory effects of the first prone position were studied in a subset of 78 patients. Patients were classified as Responders if the PaO2/FiO2 ratio increased ≥ 20 mmHg during prone position. Results: Of 1057 included patients, mild, moderate and severe ARDS was present in 15, 50 and 35% of patients, respectively and had a resulting mortality of 25, 33 and 41%. Prone position was applied in 61% of the patients. Patients placed prone had a more severe disease and died significantly more (45% vs 33%, p<0.001). Overall, prone position induced a significant increase in PaO2/FiO2 ratio, while no change in respiratory system compliance was observed. Seventy-eight % of patients were Responders to prone position. Non-Responders had a more severe respiratory failure and died more often in the ICU (65% vs. 38%, p=0.047).Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, prone position has been widely adopted to treat mechanically ventilated patients with respiratory failure. The majority of patients improved their oxygenation during prone position, most likely due to a better ventilation perfusion matching.Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT04388670
Evaluation of Histopathological Heterogeneity After Preoperative Chemotherapy in Patients With Liver Metastases from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: matsuhashi Nobuhisa , Tomita Hiroyuki , Kato Takazumi , Iwata Yoshinori , Matsui Satoshi , Imai Hisashi , Fukada Masahiro , Mizutani Chika , Takahashi Takao , Yasufuku Itaru , Suetsugu Tomonari , Imai Takeharu , Mori Ryutaro , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Okumura Naoki , Futamura Manabu , Hara Akira , Yoshida Kazuhiro
Published: February 2021

Background: Patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer (CRLMs) frequently receive chemotherapy prior to liver resection. Histopathological assessment of the resected specimen can evaluate the response to chemotherapy. This study analyzed the correlation between histopathological changes in the primary site and liver metastases. Patients and Methods: This study comprised 45 patients with resectable CRLMs at the Surgical Oncology Department of Gifu University School of Medicine from January 2006 to August 2015. Results: The study included 24 men and 21 women. The primary colonic tumor was located in the right side in 13 (28.9%) patients and the left side in 32 (71.9%) patients. We evaluated patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (31/45) after excluding those in whom histopathological heterogeneity between the primary and liver metastasis changed to grade 3 after chemotherapy. We compared the group which underwent hepatectomy after chemotherapy (n=25) with that underwent hepatectomy alone (n=6). In 16 (53.3%) out of 25 patients, histopathological heterogeneity of the liver metastasis was lost (p=0.04). Conclusion: Chemotherapy appears to change histopathological heterogeneity.Our study suggests that the change of intratumoral heterogeneity reflect by the response of chemotherapy.
CAR T cell therapy as a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Akhoundi Maryam , Mohammadi Mahsa , Sahraei Seyedeh Saeideh , Sheykhhasan Mohsen , Fayazi Nashmin
Published: February 2021

Background Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cell therapy has shown great potential in the immunotherapy of patients with hematologic malignancies. In spite of this striking achievement, there are still major challenges to overcome in CAR T cell therapy of solid tumors, including treatment-related toxicity and specificity. Also, other obstacles may be encountered in tackling solid tumors, such as their immunosuppressive microenvironment, the heterogeneous expression of cell surface markers, and the cumbersome arrival of T cells at the tumor site. Although several strategies have been developed to overcome these challenges, aditional research aimed at enhancing its efficacy with minimum side effects, the design of precise yet simplified work flows and the possibility to scale-up production with reduced costs and related risks is still warranted.Conclusions Here, we review main strategies to establish a balance between the toxicity and activity of CAR T cells in order to enhance their specificity and surpass immunosuppression. In recent years, many clinical studies have been conducted that eventually led to approved products. To date, the FDA has approved two anti-CD19 CAR T cell products for non-Hodgkin lymphoma therapy, i.e., axicbtagene ciloleucel and tisagenlecleucel. With all the advances that have been made in the field of CAR T cell therapy for hematologic malignancies therapy, ongoing studies are focused on optimizing its efficacy and specificity, as well as reducing the side effects. Also, the efforts are poised to broaden CAR T cell therapeutics for other cancers, especially solid tumors.
Effects of antioxidant supplementation on oxidative stress balance in young footballers– a randomized double-blind trial
Authors: Stankiewicz Błażej , Cieślicka Mirosława , Kujawski Sławomir , Piskorska Elżbieta , Kowalik Tomasz , Korycka Justyna , Stejnborn Anna Skarpańska -
Published: February 2021

Background: The intensive physical exercise in which athletes take part in competitive sports can negatively affect the pro-oxidative–antioxidant balance. The use of compounds with high antioxidant potential, which certainly should include chokeberry, can prevent these adverse changes. Methods: The study was conducted as a double blinded randomized trial on a group of football players (mean age=15.8), who underwent 7 weeks of supplementation with 200 ml chokeberry juice per day. The players were randomly assigned to the experimental (supplemented, FP-S; n = 12) and control (placebo, FB-C; n = 8) groups. Before and after the supplementation period, participants performed an beep test . Venous blood was taken for serum isolation before, immediately after, 3 h, 24 h after the test Level of thiobarbituric acid reactive products (TBARS), hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), iron (Fe), hepcidin, ferritin, myoglobin, albumin and morphological parameters (RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, MCHC and lactic acid) were measured.Results: There were no significant impact of the supplementation intervention in response to the physical exercise test in the studied groups.. The post-hoc test showed no effect of chokeberry juice supply on any of the morphological, biochemical or performance parameters analysed.Conclusions: The supplementation of Chokeberry juice shows no effects on measured parameters in studied populations. It may indicate Such results may indicate insufficient antioxidant capacity of the supplemented juice.
Effect Of The Combination Of Automated Peripheral Mechanical Stimulation And Physical Exercise On Aerobic Functional Capacity And Cardiac Autonomic Control: A Randomized Clinical Trial Protocol.
Authors: Zelada-Astudillo Nicolle Aileen , Herrera-Santelices Andrea , Barbieri Fabio Augusto , Moreno Vinicius Christianini , Zamunér Antonio Roberto
Published: February 2021

● Background: Automated peripheral mechanical stimulation (AMPS) has been proposed as a new complementary therapy with potential for improving motor and cardiovascular abnormalities in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, AMPS long-term effects and its combination with physical exercise is unknown. Thus, this study aims to compare the effects of a program of 12 weeks of physical exercise with a 12-week intervention program combining physical exercise and AMPS on the aerobic capacity, cardiac autonomic control and gait parameters in patients with PD.● Methods: A randomized, controlled clinical trial will be conducted. Volunteers will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups studied: 1) Exercise; or 2) AMPS + Exercise. Both groups will undergo an exercise program of 24 sessions, for 12 weeks, performed twice a week. Before exercise sessions, the group AMPS+Exercise will receive a session of active AMPS, while the group Exercise will receive an AMPS sham intervention. Shapiro-wilk’s and Levene’s tests will be used to check for data normality and homogeneity, respectively. In case parametric assumptions are fulfilled, per-protocol and intention-to-treat analyses will be performed using a mixed model analysis of variance to check for Group*Time interaction. Significance level will be set at 5%. ● Discussion: Several non-pharmacological treatment modalities have been proposed for PD, focusing primarily on the reduction of motor and musculoskeletal disorders. Regular exercise and motor training have been shown to be effective in improving quality of life. However, treatment options in general remain limited given the high prevalence and adverse impact of these disorders. So, developing new strategies that can potentiate the improvement of motor disabilities and also improve non-motor symptoms in PD is relevant. It is expected that the participants from both groups will improve their quality of life, gait parameters and their cardiac autonomic control, with greater improvements being observed in the group combining active AMPS and physical exercise.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04251728, registered February 05, 2020
Risk factors for breast cancer development by tumor characteristics among women with benign breast disease
Authors: Figueroa Jonine , Gierach Gretchen L. , Duggan Máire A. , Fan Shaoqi , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Wang Yihong , Falk Roni T. , Loudig Olivier , Abubakar Mustapha , Ginsberg Mindy , Kimes Teresa M. , Richert-Boe Kathryn , Rohan Thomas
Published: February 2021

Background: Among women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, 30% have a prior diagnosis of benign breast disease (BBD). Thus, it is important to identify factors among BBD patients that elevate invasive cancer risk. In the general population, risk factors differ in their associations by clinical pathologic features; however, whether women with BBD show etiologic heterogeneity in the types of breast cancers they develop remains unknown. Methods: Using a nested case-control study of BBD and breast cancer risk conducted in a community healthcare plan (Kaiser Permanente Northwest), we assessed relationships of histologic features in BBD biopsies and patient characteristics with subsequent breast cancer risk and tested for heterogeneity of associations by estrogen receptor (ER) status, tumor grade and size. The study included 514 invasive breast cancer cases (median follow-up of 9 years post-BBD diagnosis) and 514 matched controls, diagnosed with proliferative or non-proliferative BBD between 1971-2006, with follow-up through mid-2015. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were obtained using multivariable polytomous logistic regression models. Results: Breast cancers were predominantly ER-positive (86%), well- or moderately-differentiated (73%), small (74% <20mm) and stage I/II (91%). Compared to patients with non-proliferative BBD, proliferative BBD with atypia conferred risk for ER-positive (OR=5.48, 95%CI=2.14-14.01) with only one ER-negative case); p-heterogeneity=0.45. Presence of columnar cell lesions (CCLs) at BBD diagnosis was associated with a 1.5-fold increase in risk of both ER-positive and ER-negative tumors, with a 2-fold increase (95%CI=1.21-3.58) observed among postmenopausal women (56%), independent of proliferative BBD status with and without atypia. We did not identify statistically significant differences in risk factor associations by tumor grade or size. Conclusion: Most tumors that developed after a BBD diagnosis in this cohort were highly treatable low-stage ER-positive tumors. CCL in BBD biopsies may be associated with moderately increased risk, independent of BBD histology, and irrespective of ER status.
Factors Influencing Household Adoption of Solar Home System in Baso Liben District, Amhara Regional State of Ethiopia
Authors: Zeru Asmare Mossie , Guta Dawit Diriba
Published: February 2021

Background: Although solar energy is abundant, accessible, affordable, and ecologically and environmentally friendly, in rural Ethiopia the majority of households are still using pollutant kerosene for lighting. It is important to understand the demand and supply-side factors affecting adoption of technology. For this purpose, this study investigates the factors influencing household adoption of the solar home system (SHS).Methodology: The data used for the econometric model was collected from randomly selected 228 solar home system adopter and 143 non- adopter households in Baso Liben district, Amhara regional state of Ethiopia. The logistic regression model was applied to examine the factors affecting households’ willingness to adopt SHS. Results: The finding of this study shows significant variation in many of the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics between adopters and non-adopters. The result of the binary logistic regression model indicated that as income of a household increase, their propensity to adopt solar home system also increases. Likewise, participation in off-farm income activities, house type, educational status of the head, training access, media access, and prior knowledge of the technology positively correlated with the probability of adoption. On the other hand, the gender of the head (being male) and access to electricity were negatively associated with the adoption of SHS. Conclusion: Therefore, policy measures should create awareness through training, education, and information access or better media availability, and improving the economic status of households through creating lucrative off-farm income-earning opportunities to achieve enhanced adoption of the solar home system.
A Smartphone-Assisted Brief Behavioral Intervention for Pregnant Women with Depression: a Study Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zuccolo Pedro Fonseca , Xavier Mariana O. , Matijasevich Alicia , Polanczyk Guilherme Vanoni , Fatori Daniel
Published: February 2021

Background: Pregnancy is strongly associated with increased risk for depression, but treating pregnant women is challenging. The use of psychiatric medications might result in developmental problems in the child, therefore must be used with caution. Psychosocial interventions require specialized professionals which are scarce, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In this context, smartphone-based interventions show immense potential. We created Motherly, a smartphone app designed to promote maternal mental health. The Motherly app delivers a package of interventions, including mental health, sleep, nutrition, physical activity, social support, prenatal/postnatal support, and psychoeducational content. With this study, we will test the effectiveness of the Motherly app in addition to brief cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) to treat maternal depression. Methods: We will conduct a 2-arm parallel randomized controlled clinical trial in which 70 pregnant women between 16-40 years with depression will be randomized to intervention or active control. The intervention group will have access to the Motherly app. The active control group will have access to a simplified version of the app consisting exclusively of psychoeducational content. Both groups will undergo four sessions of CBT in 8 weeks. Participants will be evaluated by assessors blind to randomization and allocation status at baseline (T0), midpoint (T1, week 4-5), posttreatment (T2, week 8), and follow-up (T3, when the child is two months-old). Maternal mental health (prenatal anxiety, psychological well-being, perceived stress, depression, depression severity, and sleep quality), quality of life, physical activity levels, and infant developmental milestones and social/emotional problems will be measured. Our primary outcome is the change in maternal prenatal depression from baseline to posttreatment (8 weeks). Discussion: There is a growing literature on interventions using smartphone applications to promote mental health, both with or without the intermediation of a mental health professional. Our study adds to the literature by testing whether an app providing an intervention package, including CBT, psychoeducation, nutrition, physical activity, and social support, can treat depression, a condition for which the use of digital technologies is still scarce. Smartphone applications designed to treat maternal depression have the potential to circumvent barriers that prevent pregnant women from accessing mental health care.Trial Registration: A Smartphone-Assisted Brief Behavioral Intervention for Pregnant Women With Depression (clinicaltrials.gov, registry number: NCT04495166, prospectively registered in 29/07/2020).
Die Nutzung digitaler Medien von Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten in der Behindertenhilfe
Authors: Kalcher Martina , Kreinbucher-Bekerle Christoph
Published: February 2021

Die digitale Entwicklung bietet Menschen mit Behinderungen vermehrte Teilhabechancen, kann zugleich aber auch zu neuen Hürden führen. Gerade bei Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten, die häufig nicht am ersten Arbeitsmarkt tätig sind, besteht die Gefahr, dass diese aus digitalen Entwicklungen aus verschiedensten Gründen ausgeschlossen werden. Das Ziel der Erhebung war herauszufinden, inwieweit Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten, die in einer Einrichtung der Behindertenhilfe leben und/oder in einer Werkstatt für Menschen mit Behinderung arbeiten, digitale Endgeräte nutzen und mit welchen Herausforderungen sie bei der Nutzung konfrontiert sind. Die Untersuchung fand im Rahmen eines partizipativen Forschungsprojekts gemeinsam mit Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten im Rahmen ihrer Tätigkeit in einer Forschungswerkstatt für Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten als Co-Forschende statt. Befragt wurden in Summe 261 Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten. Die Ergebnisse zeigen deutlich, dass Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten, die in der Behindertenhilfe arbeiten und/oder leben, digitale Endgeräte wie Smartphones, Tablets und Laptops in einem äusserst geringen Ausmass besitzen und nutzen. Auch der Zugang zum Internet ist bei diesen Personen stark eingeschränkt. Aus den erhobenen Gründen für die geringe Nutzung digitaler Geräte werden Handlungsempfehlungen abgeleitet, um die Teilhabe von Menschen mit Lernschwierigkeiten, die in Einrichtungen der Behindertenhilfe leben oder arbeiten, langfristig zu verbessern.
Inklusion und Digitalisierung in der Schule
Authors: Hartung Julia , Zschoch Elsa , Wahl Michael
Published: February 2021

Inklusion und Digitalisierung stellen zwei grosse Herausforderungen dar, mit denen sich das deutsche Bildungssystem und die einzelnen schulischen Akteure bereits seit Jahren auseinandersetzen müssen. Einzeln betrachtet handelt es sich bei Beiden um intensiv und differenziert beforschte Themenkomplexe. Die Verzahnung beider Konzepte rückt jedoch erst allmählich in den Fokus der Forschung, obwohl sich Berührungspunkte sowie Chancen identifizieren lassen. Der Beitrag gibt einführend eine kurze Übersicht über die aktuellen Rahmenbedingen und Forschungsergebnisse zu den Themenkomplexen Inklusion und Digitalisierung in deutschen Schulen. Im Anschluss daran werden exemplarisch potentielle Voraussetzungen und Bedingungen für die Implementierung der beiden Konzepte zusammengetragen. Besondere Beachtung bei der Darstellung der ausgewählten Bedingungen erhalten die Perspektiven der Lehrkräfte sowie der Schülerinnen und Schüler.
Effects of saline stress and temperature on germination and seed vigor of Luffa operculata L. Cogn
Authors: Araújo Paulo Costa , Melo Paulo Alexandre Fernandes Rodrigues de , Alves Edna Ursulino , Neto Antônio Pereira dos Anjos , Neto Aderson Costa Araujo , Araújo José Ribamar Gusmão de , Mondego Janaina Marques , Silva Aline Priscilla Gomes da , Silva Joyce Naiara da , Medeiros Maria Luiza de Souza
Published: February 2021

Luffa operculata (L.) is a native Brazilian biome plant used for the treatment of respiratory diseases. Although Brazil’s flora comprises 67% of the world’s plants, only 8% of Brazilian plant species are studied each year. The studies indicate that climate change in tropical biomes intensifies the increase in salinized areas by about 10% per year for several reasons, including high temperatures, low rainfall and high evapotranspiration rates, due to surface water scarcity. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the germination behavior and vigor of L. operculata seeds submitted to saline stress at different temperatures. To simulate salt stress conditions, sodium chloride was applied at 0.0; 3.0; 6.0; 9.0 and 12.0 dS m-1, at 25, 30, 35, 20-30 °C, with treatments distributed in a 5 x 4 factorial scheme (five levels of osmotic potential and four temperatures), using four replications. The seeds were then evaluated concerning water content, germination tests, first counts, germination speed index and seedling root and shoot lengths. At 30 and 35 °C, the seed germination and vigor of L. operculata were less affected up to an osmotic potential of 9.0 dS m-1, where it is considered a moderate salinity tolerance. At 35 ºC, the germination uniformity was reduced to 98 and 93% by applying the 6 and 9 dS m-1 solutions, respectively. For the same temperature, the germination velocity remained 6.09 (IVG) until the saline potential of 9.0 dS m-1
Fruit and seed biometry of Carpotroche brasiliensis (RB) A. Gray (Achariaceae), a tropical tree with great potential to provide natural forest products
Authors: Lima Thâmara M. , Amaral Elizabeth S. , Gaiotto Fernanda A. , Anjos Letícia dos , Dalmolin Ândrea Carla , Santos Alesandro Souza , Mielke Marcelo S.
Published: February 2021

Carpotroche brasiliensis (RB) A. Gray (Achariaceae) is a native tree species of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest with great potential provide natural forest products in agroforestry systems. The oil of its seeds contains medicinal and cosmetic properties, and the fruits are appreciated by wild animals. In this study, we analyzed the biometry of fruits and seeds collected from naturally-grown trees in agroforestry systems on small farms in southern Bahia, Brazil. Fresh fruit mass (FFM), fruit length (FL), fruit diameter (FD), number of seeds per fruit (NSF), total fresh seed mass per fruit (FSMF), total dry mass of seeds per fruit (DMSF), and mass of 1,000 seeds (MTS) were collected from 66 fruits of 18 trees on six rural properties. Seed length (SL) and seed diameter (SD) were also evaluated for 5335 seeds. From this sample universe, 697 seeds represented an adequate sample size to measure these dimensions with statistical precision. The fruits analyzed in this study had uniform values for most of the biometric variables among the sites. The average values of NSF, FFM, and MTS were approximately 88 seeds, 0.5 kg, and 1.3 kg, respectively. Seeds of C. brasiliensis obtained from freshly-harvested fruits had high water content, with an average of more than 45%. Strongly significant correlations between FFM and FD and between FMSF and DMSF indicate the possibility of developing simple procedures to estimate seed pro-duction for commercial purposes from field evaluations
Stability of equilibrium in a one-dimensional hydrostatic model of the dry atmosphere
Authors:   Yu. A. Izrael Institute of Global Climate and Ecology, Semenov S.M. ,   Institute of Forest Sciences RAS,   National Research University Higher School of Economics
Published: February 2021

Experts in the field of mathematical modeling of the climate system have different views about which class of models should be employed to analyze and predict climate for time scales corresponding to climatic processes. In this paper, we investigate the properties of a model constructed using the hydrostatic hypothesis. A one-dimensional (horizontally homogeneous) hydrostatic model of a dry atmosphere is considered. Air is considered an ideal gas. The source of heat is the external short-wave radiation flux entering the upper boundary of the atmosphere. This energy is partly absorbed by the atmospheric layers and the underlying surface, partly returned to space. The atmospheric layers and the underlying surface radiate in the long-wave range. In general, the absorption coefficient and heat capacity are specific for the atmospheric layers and are everywhere positive. In the model, the radiation balance of a segment of the atmospheric column above a unit area of the underlying surface determines the change in the internal energy and the volume occupied by the segment.The pressure value always remains equal to the weight of a part of the atmospheric column above the segment (hydrostatic hypothesis). The underlying surface is always in the state of radiation equilibrium. Under these assumptions: a) there is a single equilibrium vertical temperature distribution in the column and corresponding air pressure and density distributions (they are calculated using the hydrostatic assumption and the equation of a state of the ideal gas); b) the temperature distribution is asymptotically stable, i.e. any other initial distribution of non-negative temperature values tends with time to equilibrium uniformly on the vertical. Thus, one can expect that the numerical analogs of the model considered in this work will also be stable, which is important for the computational implementation of both the one-dimensional model and its three-dimensional version.
A review of conjunctive GW-SW management by simulation–optimization tools
Authors: Soleimani Shima , Bozorg-Haddad Omid , Boroomandnia Arezoo , Loáiciga Hugo A.
Published: February 2021

The conjunctive use of groundwater and surface water (GW-SW) resources has grown worldwide. Optimal conjunctive water use can be planned by coupling hydrologic models for the simulation of water systems with optimization techniques for improving management strategies. The coupling of simulation and optimization methods constitutes an effective approach to determine sustainable management strategies for the conjunctive use of these water resources; yet, there are challenges that must be addressed. This paper reviews (1) hydrologic models applied for the simulation of GW-SW interaction in the water resources systems, (2) conventional optimization methods, and (3) published works on optimized conjunctive GW-SW use by coupling simulation and optimization methods. This paper evaluates the pros and cons of GW-SW simulation tools and their applications, thus providing criteria for selecting simulation–optimization methods for GW-SW management. In addition, an assessment of GW-SW simulation–optimization tools applied in various studies over the world creates valuable knowledge for selecting suitable simulation–optimization tools in similar case studies for sustainable water resource management under multiple scenarios.
Habitar entre fronteras. Un estudio teórico sobre mujeres migrantes y hogares transnacionales y transfronterizos
Authors: Magalhães Lina
Published: February 2021

El artículo interroga cómo las mujeres migrantes internacionales desarrollan experiencias de construir hogares a través de espacialidades simultáneas. Se realiza un análisis teórico de los usos del concepto de hogar en los estudios migratorios y de frontera desde la última década del siglo XX, con un enfoque específico en las dimensiones transnacionales y transfronterizas del fenómeno. Se indaga en las particularidades de los hogares transfronterizos, y se asume que las investigaciones realizadas en territorios limítrofes verificaron una intensificación de las desigualdades vividas por las mujeres en estos espacios. Al seguir los debates heideggerianos se plantea que las desigualdades vividas por las mujeres migrantes y transfronterizas se materializan en sus corporalidades y en sus experiencias de habitar, lo que tiene implicaciones multidimensionales en la manera como ellas articulan sus hogares. Se proponen reflexiones finales sobre la migración, las mujeres y la producción de hogares a través de las fronteras.
Aktywność senatorów litewskich podczas sejmów z pierwszego okresu panowania Jana III Sobieskiego (1676-1683) i ich stosunek do najważniejszych problemów państwa w świetle wotów senatorskich
Authors: Bobiatyński Konrad
Published: February 2021

W artykule tym przedstawiono aktywność senatorów litewskich podczas pierwszych pięciu sejmów walnych w czasach Jana III Sobieskiego (1676-1683). Jak się okazało, dużo częściej przyjeżdżali oni na sejmy i wotowali niż ich koronni koledzy. Ogółem frekwencja tej grupy wynosiła ok. 42%, a wota wygłosiło 24%. Zaprzecza to tezie o stopniowym spadku udziału członków izby wyższej w obradach parlamentu na przestrzeni XVII w.
Analiza wotów senatorskich pokazała, iż w czasach Sobieskiego mamy do czynienia z obniżeniem się poziomu sztuki oratorskiej. Wota stanowiły okazję nie tylko do wyrażenia opinii na problemy państwa, lecz również były wykorzystywane w walce wewnętrznej do uderzenia w przeciwników. Również w treści wystąpień brak było pomysłów na reformy państwa.  Koncentrowały się one wokół zagadnień istotnych dla tzw. „litewskiej racji stanu”.
Polonica w księgozbiorze senatora i biskupa płockiego Piotra Dunin - Wolskiego (1531-1590)
Authors: Marszalska Jolanta M.
Published: February 2021

Bishop Piotr Dunin-Wolski was a bibliophile, lover and expert on Spanish literature, perfectly familiar with the cultural currents of the epoch and maintaining scientific and diplomatic contacts. He donated a large collection of books (over 1000 volumes) to the Collegium Maius library of the Krakow Academy and to the library of the cathedral chapter in Płock. Among the collected books, noteworthy are the works of Padua professors and their Polish students; of the humanist and theologian Jakub Górski; and of the lawyer Wawrzyniec Goślicki, author of De optimo senatore. He signed the purchased books with a superexlibris with the Swan coat of arms and the inscription in the rim: Petrus Dunin Wolsky D[ei] G[ratia] Episcopus Plocensis,
"Tu o Polskę i wszystko idzie”. Senatorska aktywność biskupa płockiego Stanisława Łubieńskiego w latach 1627-1632
Authors: Graczyk Waldemar
Published: February 2021

Stanisław Łubieński, as a senator and bishop, had a great influence on the staffing posts and dignities in the diocese of Płock. His rule in the diocese coincided with the Swedish war, the effects of which particularly affected the northern parts of the diocese of Płock. This influenced the evolution of Łubieński’s views from supporting military action to postulating peace as soon as possible. The second issue raised by Łubieński was the matter of the succession to the throne after Sigismund III and the vivente rege election. The articulation of this issue in the Sejms of 1626 and 1631 resulted from his conviction that the best solution for the Commonwealth was to elect Władysław, the eldest son of Sigismund, as king.
Irisin and Vascular Inflammation: Beneficial Effects of a Healthy Lifestyle Beyond Physical Activity
Authors: Restuccia Roberto , Perani Fulvio , Ficarra Giovanni , Trimarchi Fabio , Bitto Alessandra , di Mauro Debora
Published: February 2021

Vascular inflammation is responsible for many cardiovascular diseases and endothelial dysfunction
is often the first trigger. Many factors can contribute to altering vascular homeostasis and despite that some risk
factors cannot be changed, some lifestyle changes might dramatically improve vascular function. In this regard,
physical activity has been identified as one of the most important interventions that can positively affect endothelial
dysfunction. In recent years, the discovery of irisin, a novel myokine with pleiotropic effects, has caught
the attention of many researchers. This review summarizes the most relevant intervention trials, evaluating
irisin modifications in subjects with or without cardiovascular risk factors assigned to physical activity programs,
to improve cardiovascular risk markers.