bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Pb, Cd, and Hg Exposure and Liver Injury among Korean Adults
Authors: Kim Do-Won , Ock Jeongwon , Moon Kyong-Whan , Park Choong-Hee
Published: June 2021

Background: Exposure to lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) has been reported to be associated with liver-related diseases. However, studies examining the association between heavy metal exposure and liver injury in a large population are scant and characterized by inconsistent results. This study aimed to evaluate the association between levels of heavy metal exposure and liver injury in the general population. Methods: Data for 2953 participants aged 19 years or more obtained from the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) Cycle 3 (2015–2017) were used. The associations between levels of blood or urine heavy metals (Pb, Cd, and Hg) and liver function biomarkers [aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)] were evaluated using multiple linear regression analysis. Results: Regarding the blood Pb (BPb), AST was higher in those of the 4th quartile, ALT was higher in those of the 2nd and 4th quartiles, and GGT was higher in those of the 3rd and 4th quartiles than in the 1st quartile. For urinary Cd (UCd), AST was higher in those of the 4th quartile; ALT was higher in those of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quartiles; and GGT was higher in the 4th quartile than in the 1st quartile. For the blood Hg (BHg), AST was higher in those of the 2nd and 4th quartile, ALT was higher in those of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quartiles; and GGT was higher in those of the 3rd and 4th quartiles than in the 1st quartile. There was no significant difference between urinary Hg (UHg) and liver function markers. Conclusion: Heavy metal exposure showed an association with liver injury among the general adult population in Korea. Further studies are required to clarify the relationship between heavy metals and liver injury.
Population Kidney Health. A New Paradigm for Chronic Kidney Disease Management
Authors: Burgos-Calderón Rafael , Depine Santos Ángel , Aroca-Martínez Gustavo
Published: June 2021

Statistical data extracted from national databases demonstrate a continuous growth in the incidence and prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the ineffectiveness of current policies and strategies based on individual risk factors to reduce them, as well as their mortality and costs. Some innovative programs, telemedicine and government interest in the prevention of CKD did not facilitate timely access to care, continuing the increased demand for dialysis and transplants, high morbidity and long-term disability. In contrast, new forms of kidney disease of unknown etiology affected populations in developing countries and underrepresented minorities, who face socioeconomic and cultural disadvantages. With this background, our objective was to analyze in the existing literature the effects of social determinants in CKD, concluding that it is necessary to strengthen current kidney health strategies, designing in a transdisciplinary way, a model that considers demographic characteristics integrated into individual risk factors and risk factors population, incorporating the population health perspective in public health policies to improve results in kidney health care, since CKD continues to be an important and growing contributor to chronic diseases.
Associations between Screen-Based Activities, Physical Activity, and Dietary Habits in Mexican Schoolchildren
Authors: Soltero Erica G. , Jáuregui Alejandra , Hernandez Edith , Barquera Simón , Jáuregui Edtna , López-Taylor Juan Ricardo , Ortiz-Hernández Luis , Lévesque Lucie , Lee Rebecca E.
Published: June 2021

Screen-based activities are associated with increased risk of obesity and contribute to physical inactivity and poor dietary habits. The primary aim of this study was to examine the associations among screen-based activities, physical activity, and dietary habits in school-aged children in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City, Mexico. The secondary aim was to examine these associations across sex. The School Physical Activity and Nutrition survey was used to assess screen-based activities (TV watching, video game use, computer use), physical activity, and dietary habits. Organized activity/sports participation, unhealthy dietary habits, and household income were correlated with screen-based activities. While TV watching was associated with decreased participation in organized activity/sports participation, computer and video game use was associated with increased organized activity/sports participation. Boys engaged in more TV watching and video game use compared to girls. All screen-based activities were associated with age among boys; whereas video game and computer use were associated with higher income among girls. These findings suggest a need for sex- and age-specific strategies that acknowledge the differential use of screen-based activities across sex and age. Future research should continue to identify underlying correlates linking screen-based activities with health behaviors to inform strategies to reduce screen-time in Mexican children.
Changes in Visual Performance under the Effects of Moderate–High Alcohol Consumption: The Influence of Biological Sex
Authors: Casares-López Miriam , Castro-Torres José J. , Ortiz-Peregrina Sonia , Martino Francesco , Ortiz Carolina
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to analyze the changes in visual functions under the effects of moderate–high breath alcohol concentrations (BrACs), and the influence of biological sex on visual deterioration, considering different factors. A total of 37 healthy habitual alcohol users were enrolled in the experiment. The participants underwent a baseline session and a second session after an intake of 450 mL of red wine, so that all of them reached a BrAC above 0.25 mg/L. Visual performance was assessed by measuring the contrast sensitivity function, the halo perception, the stereopsis, and finally the retinal image quality. A Visual Deterioration Score (VDS) was calculated using the deterioration of these visual variables. All visual functions analyzed were significantly impaired following alcohol consumption (p < 0.05). The VDS was associated with the BrAC (ρ = −0.476). The VDS was also significantly higher in females, with the BrAC having a significant effect on the variability of the VDS in males and females (p < 0.05). However, the body mass index showed no significant effect (p > 0.05). Visual functions were significantly impaired under the influence of alcohol, and this deterioration was greater in females. The deterioration depends on the BrAC reached, being the primary thing responsible for the differences observed between males and females.
Regional Differences in Disability Incidence among Japanese Adults Aged 75 Years and Older: A 4-Year Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Matsumoto Daisuke , Takatori Katsuhiko
Published: June 2021

The present prospective study investigated the regional differences and trajectories of new-onset disabilities among older adults in the districts within a city in Japan. We analyzed data from 5050 Japanese residents aged ≥75 years old (men/women: 2512/2538) who completed the Kihon Checklist (a self-reported questionnaire on frailty) and a questionnaire on medical history and social capital in Ikoma city in 2015. The incidence of disability was determined using the new certification of long-term care insurance and was followed-up on 4 years after the primary outcome. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to determine the factors related to the risk of incident disability. During the 4-year follow-up period, 567 participants (11.2%) were newly certified to have a disability. The disability incidence rate ranged from 8.1% to 14.6%, depending on the district. After adjustment for the covariates of: older, women, stroke, prefrail, frail, participation in multiple social activities (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.56–0.91), and one of the districts (HR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.06–2.61) were significantly associated with disability incidence. The findings of this longitudinal study suggest that there could be a regional difference in disability incidence among older adults in Japan. Thus, community-based approaches should be designed to prevent disability in older adults.
Impact of COVID-19 on Medicine Lecturers’ Mental Health and Emergency Remote Teaching Challenges
Authors: Miguel Carla , Castro Luísa , Marques dos Santos José Paulo , Serrão Carla , Duarte Ivone
Published: June 2021

COVID-19 has presented a novel pedagogical challenge in dealing with the sudden shift from classic instruction to emergency remote teaching (ERT). It had an impact on the well-being and mental health of lecturers, increasing burnout risk. A cross-sectional, quantitative, qualitative and analytical online study was conducted to collect participants’ sociodemographic data, responses to ERT open-ended questions and mental health assessments using relevant instruments (CBI for burnout, Resilience Scale, DASS for depression, anxiety and stress, SWLS for satisfaction with life). High personal burnout levels were found in 41.2% of participants, high work-related burnout in 37.3% and high student-related burnout in 15.7%. Satisfaction with life, sleep routine changes and stress were determinants for personal burnout; stress and resilience for work-related burnout; satisfaction of life and sleep routine changes for students-related burnout. Opportunities for pedagogical innovation were pointed out as the main advantages to ERT, while the main negative impacts were on practical lessons and social interaction. Students and lecturers’ safety and adequate institutional support might be insured, considering their expectations and needs, promoting mental health. Combining the advantages of online and traditional methods in a so-called “blended learning” approach, with close collaboration and communication between all those involved, appears to achieve better results.
Investigating the Effects of Mental Fatigue on Resistance Exercise Performance
Authors: Brown Denver M. Y. , Farias Zuniga Amanda , Mulla Daanish M. , Mendonca Divya , Keir Peter J. , Bray Steven R.
Published: June 2021

Mental fatigue can impart negative effects on subsequent physical performance, although the mechanisms underlying these effects are not well understood. This study examined whether mental fatigue confers negative carryover effects on the performance of a set of biceps curls, while also investigating physiological and psychological mechanisms proposed to explain the predicted effect. A randomized, cross-over design was employed. On visit 1, participants (N = 10) performed a barbell biceps curl one-repetition maximum (1RM) test. On visits 2–3, participants performed 20 biceps curls at 50% of their 1RM, followed by their respective 10 min experimental manipulation (high vs. low cognitive exertion) and then a second set of biceps curls to exhaustion. Ratings of perceived exertion and electromyography of the biceps brachii, triceps brachii, upper trapezius, thoracic erector spinae and lumbar erector spinae were recorded during the physical task. The total number of repetitions completed was similar across the conditions. Results also failed to show between-condition differences for muscle activation and perceptions of exertion. Future research is needed to build an adequate knowledge base to determine whether there is an effect of mental fatigue on dynamic resistance-based task performance and, if so, identify the mechanisms explaining how and why.
Feasibility Study on the Application of Microbial Agent Modified Water-Jet Loom Sludge for the Restoration of Degraded Soil in Mining Areas
Authors: Ji Chuning , Huang Jiu , Tian Yu , Liu Ying , Barvor Joshua Bosco , Shao Xintong , Li Zi’ao
Published: June 2021

Open-pit mining causes soil damage and affects the health of the ecosystem. In the arid grassland mining areas, the soil is severely sanded, water-starved, and saline, thus making it difficult for plants and microorganisms to survive. Water-jet loom sludge can be used to improve the quality as it contains a lot of clay and is rich in organic matter, which provides a material basis for microorganism activity. To explore the effects of microbial agent-modified water-jet loom sludge on the restoration of degraded soil in grassland mining areas, four pot trials were set up, i.e., for untreated soil, the application of a microbial agent alone, the application of water-jet loom sludge alone, and the combined application of water-jet loom sludge and the microbial agent. The results show that (1) microbial agent-modified sludge can improve soil water-holding capacity and aggregate stability; (2) the nutrient content of the restored soil fraction increased significantly, and the pH of the original saline soil decreased from 9.06 to 7.84; (3) this method significantly increased plant biomass and microbial biomass carbon and enhanced the abundance and diversity of fungi and bacteria. The three treatments had different results in different soil properties, and the effect of the combined water-jet loom sludge and microbial agent treatment on soil remediation was significantly better than the individual application of either.
Income Inequality, Neighbourhood Social Capital and Subjective Well-Being in China: Exploration of a Moderating Effect
Authors: Huang Jiawen , Fang Yitong
Published: June 2021

With the continuous global rise in inequality and the growing importance of subjective welfare, the relationship between income inequality and subjective well-being has received increasing attention. This paper focuses on neighbourhood social capital, measured at the individual and community levels, to explore its moderating effect on the association between income inequality and subjective well-being in the context of China, an issue few studies have examined. Using data from the China Labour-force Dynamics Survey and multilevel models, the results show that income inequality measured using three different indicators had a stable and negative association with subjective well-being in China, after controlling for various individual characteristics and aggregate-level factors. Although neighbourhood social capital at the individual level has been proven to promote subjective well-being, a dark side of social capital is also found at the community level. More notably, neighbourhood social capital at the individual level can attenuate the negative impact of income inequality on subjective well-being, especially for vulnerable groups, such as those with low income or low education. How to reasonably guide the community to develop social capital is an important policy implication to attenuate the negative psychological experience of income inequality.
Relationship between Mindfulness, Psychological Skills, and Mental Toughness in College Athletes
Authors: Wu Chih-Han , Nien Jui-Ti , Lin Chi-Yen , Nien Yu-Hsiang , Kuan Garry , Wu Tsung-Yi , Ren Fei-Fei , Chang Yu-Kai
Published: June 2021

Numerous studies have shown that dispositional mindfulness is positively associated with many mental abilities related to sports performance, including psychological skills and mental toughness. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between dispositional mindfulness, psychological skills, and mental toughness among different types of athletes. For this cross-sectional study, 101 college athletes were recruited. Their dispositional mindfulness, psychological skills, and mental toughness were measured by the Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Athletic Psychological Skills Inventory (APSI), and Traits of Mental Toughness Inventory for Sports Scale (TMTIS). Pearson’s correlation was used to calculate how dispositional mindfulness is associated with psychological skills and mental toughness. The results revealed that dispositional mindfulness is positively associated with comprehensive APSI (r = 0.21–0.36, p < 0.05), TMTIS overall (r = 0.27, p < 0.01), positive effort (r = 0.26, p = 0.01), and pressure (r = 0.30, p < 0.01). These findings suggest a positive linkage between mindfulness and the two examined psychological characteristics related to sports performance. Other approaches to increase mindfulness may be considered in the future.
Screening for Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in Young Refugees: Comparison of Questionnaire Data with and without Involvement of an Interpreter
Authors: Müller Lauritz Rudolf Floribert , Unterhitzenberger Johanna , Wintersohl Svenja , Rosner Rita , König Julia
Published: June 2021

Background: The substantial number of young refugees who have arrived in Europe since 2015 requires rapid screening to identify those in need of treatment. However, translated versions of screening measures are not always available, necessitating the support of interpreters. The Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen (CATS) is a validated questionnaire for posttraumatic stress symptoms. Here, we report on the psychometric properties of the CATS in a sample of young refugees as a function of interpreter involvement. Methods: A total of N = 145 (Mage = 16.8, SD = 1.54; 93% male) were assessed with the CATS, with half of the screenings conducted with and half without interpreters. Post hoc analyses included calculating internal consistency using Cronbach’s α. We used confirmative factor analysis to investigate the factor structure. Results: The CATS total scale showed good reliability (α = 0.84). Differences in psychometric properties between the interpreter vs. the no interpreter group were minor and tended to be in favor of the interpreter group. Results of a confirmatory factor analysis were acceptable after the exclusion of items with low item-scale correlations. Conclusions: The sample and the administration of the assessment represent the situation of young refugees in Germany, where resources are low and translated versions not always available. The CATS may be a helpful screening tool for clinicians working with young refugees, even when administered with an interpreter. Limitations include the post hoc design of the analysis without randomization of participants and the lack of a third comparison group using translated questionnaire versions.
Musculoskeletal Disorders, Pain Medication, and in-Hospital Mortality among Patients with COVID-19 in South Korea: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Oh Tak-Kyu , Song In-Ae , Lee Joon , Eom Woosik , Jeon Young-Tae
Published: June 2021

We aimed to investigate whether comorbid musculoskeletal disorders (MSD)s and pain medication use was associated with in-hospital mortality among patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Adult patients (≥20 years old) with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis until 5 June 2020 were included in this study, based on the National Health Insurance COVID-19 database in South Korea. MSDs included osteoarthritis, neck pain, lower back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and others, while pain medication included paracetamol, gabapentin, pregabalin, glucocorticoid, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids (strong and weak opioids), and benzodiazepine. Primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality. A total of 7713 patients with COVID-19 were included, and in-hospital mortality was observed in 248 (3.2%) patients. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, no MSDs (p > 0.05) were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality. However, in-hospital mortality was 12.73 times higher in users of strong opioids (odds ratio: 12.73, 95% confidence interval: 2.44–16.64; p = 0.002), while use of paracetamol (p = 0.973), gabapentin or pregabalin (p = 0.424), glucocorticoid (p = 0.673), NSAIDs (p = 0.979), weak opioids (p = 0.876), and benzodiazepine (p = 0.324) was not associated with in-hospital mortality. In South Korea, underlying MSDs were not associated with increased in-hospital mortality among patients with COVID-19. However, use of strong opioids was significantly associated with increased in-hospital mortality among the patients.
Automatic Positional Accuracy Assessment of Imagery Segmentation Processes: A Case Study
Authors: Ruiz-Lendínez Juan J. , Ureña-Cámara Manuel A. , Mesa-Mingorance José L. , Quesada-Real Francisco J.
Published: June 2021

There are many studies related to Imagery Segmentation (IS) in the field of Geographic Information (GI). However, none of them address the assessment of IS results from a positional perspective. In a field in which the positional aspect is critical, it seems reasonable to think that the quality associated with this aspect must be controlled. This paper presents an automatic positional accuracy assessment (PAA) method for assessing this quality component of the regions obtained by means of the application of a textural segmentation algorithm to a Very High Resolution (VHR) aerial image. This method is based on the comparison between the ideal segmentation and the computed segmentation by counting their differences. Therefore, it has the same conceptual principles as the automatic procedures used in the evaluation of the GI’s positional accuracy. As in any PAA method, there are two key aspects related to the sample that were addressed: (i) its size—specifically, its influence on the uncertainty of the estimated accuracy values—and (ii) its categorization. Although the results obtained must be taken with caution, they made it clear that automatic PAA procedures, which are mainly applied to carry out the positional quality assessment of cartography, are valid for assessing the positional accuracy reached using other types of processes. Such is the case of the IS process presented in this study.
Examining the Impact of Different DEM Sources and Geomorphology on Flash Flood Analysis in Hyper-Arid Deserts
Authors: El Bastawesy Mohammed , El Saadawy Omnia , Abotalib Abotalib Z. , Othman Abdullah , Taha Maysa , Gaber Ahmed
Published: June 2021

Digital elevation models (DEMs) are the cornerstone for hydrological and geomorphological modeling. Herein, two Nile-tributary catchments (Wadi Al Rishrash and Wadi Atfeh) in Egypt are selected to examine the contribution of different DEMs to the accuracy of hydrological and geomorphological analyses in the hyper-arid Sahara. DEMs sources include: Advanced Land Observing Satellite-1 (ALOS) Phased Array type L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (PALSAR) (12.5 m resolution), ALOS World 3D with 30 m resolution (AW3D30), Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER DEM with 30 m resolution) and the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM with 30 and 90 m resolution), in addition to topographic map-derived DEM (90 m resolution). Using a hypothetical uniformly-distributed 10 mm rainfall event, the estimated parameters, including: flow duration, time to peak and peak discharge rates, are almost similar for the different DEMs and thus technical aspects related to sources and resolutions of the datasets impose insignificant control on quantitative flash-flood analyses. Conversely, variations in geological and geomorphological characteristics of the catchments show more significant control on the hydrograph magnitudes as indicated by the different parameters of the two catchments. These findings indicate that understanding the geological and hydrological evolution of the catchment is essential for integrated management strategies of floods especially in the Saharan–Arabian deserts and in similar conditions of hyper-aridity and scarce in situ data worldwide.
2021 Update on Diagnostic Markers and Translocation in Salivary Gland Tumors
Authors: Meyer Malin Tordis , Watermann Christoph , Dreyer Thomas , Ergün Süleyman , Karnati Srikanth
Published: June 2021

Salivary gland tumors are a rare tumor entity within malignant tumors of all tissues. The most common are malignant mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, and acinic cell carcinoma. Pleomorphic adenoma is the most recurrent form of benign salivary gland tumor. Due to their low incidence rates and complex histological patterns, they are difficult to diagnose accurately. Malignant tumors of the salivary glands are challenging in terms of differentiation because of their variability in histochemistry and translocations. Therefore, the primary goal of the study was to review the current literature to identify the recent developments in histochemical diagnostics and translocations for differentiating salivary gland tumors.
Androgenic-Induced Transposable Elements Dependent Sequence Variation in Barley
Authors: Orłowska Renata , Pachota Katarzyna A. , Dynkowska Wioletta M. , Niedziela Agnieszka , Bednarek Piotr T.
Published: June 2021

A plant genome usually encompasses different families of transposable elements (TEs) that may constitute up to 85% of nuclear DNA. Under stressful conditions, some of them may activate, leading to sequence variation. In vitro plant regeneration may induce either phenotypic or genetic and epigenetic changes. While DNA methylation alternations might be related, i.e., to the Yang cycle problems, DNA pattern changes, especially DNA demethylation, may activate TEs that could result in point mutations in DNA sequence changes. Thus, TEs have the highest input into sequence variation (SV). A set of barley regenerants were derived via in vitro anther culture. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC), used to study the global DNA methylation of donor plants and their regenerants, showed that the level of DNA methylation increased in regenerants by 1.45% compared to the donors. The Methyl-Sensitive Transposon Display (MSTD) based on methylation-sensitive Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (metAFLP) approach demonstrated that, depending on the selected elements belonging to the TEs family analyzed, varying levels of sequence variation were evaluated. DNA sequence contexts may have a different impact on SV generated by distinct mobile elements belonged to various TE families. Based on the presented study, some of the selected mobile elements contribute differently to TE-related SV. The surrounding context of the TEs DNA sequence is possibly important here, and the study explained some part of SV related to those contexts.
Sp1-Induced FNBP1 Drives Rigorous 3D Cell Motility in EMT-Type Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Yoon Bo Kyung , Hwang Nahee , Chun Kyu-Hye , Lee Yoseob , Duarte Tatiana Patricia Mendes , Kim Jae-Won , Kim Tae-Hyun , Cheong Jae-Ho , Fang Sungsoon , Kim Jae-woo
Published: June 2021

Cancer is heterogeneous among patients, requiring a thorough understanding of molecular subtypes and the establishment of therapeutic strategies based on its behavior. Gastric cancer (GC) is adenocarcinoma with marked heterogeneity leading to different prognoses. As an effort, we previously identified a stem-like subtype, which is prone to metastasis, with the worst prognosis. Here, we propose FNBP1 as a key to high-level cell motility, present only in aggressive GC cells. FNBP1 is also up-regulated in both the GS subtype from the TCGA project and the EMT subtype from the ACRG study, which include high portions of diffuse histologic type. Ablation of FNBP1 in the EMT-type GC cell line brought changes in the cell periphery in transcriptomic analysis. Indeed, loss of FNBP1 resulted in the loss of invasive ability, especially in a three-dimensional culture system. Live imaging indicated active movement of actin in FNBP1-overexpressed cells cultured in an extracellular matrix dome. To find the transcription factor which drives FNBP1 expression in an EMT-type GC cell line, the FNBP1 promoter region and DNA binding motifs were analyzed. Interestingly, the Sp1 motif was abundant in the promoter, and pharmacological inhibition and knockdown of Sp1 down-regulated FNBP1 promoter activity and the transcription level, respectively. Taken together, our results propose Sp1-driven FNBP1 as a key molecule explaining aggressiveness in EMT-type GC cells.
Caloric Restriction and Hypothalamic Leptin Gene Therapy Have Differential Effects on Energy Partitioning in Adult Female Rats
Authors: Turner Russell T. , Wong Carmen P. , Fosse Kristina M. , Branscum Adam J. , Iwaniec Urszula T.
Published: June 2021

Dieting is a common but often ineffective long-term strategy for preventing weight gain. Similar to humans, adult rats exhibit progressive weight gain. The adipokine leptin regulates appetite and energy expenditure but hyperleptinemia is associated with leptin resistance. Here, we compared the effects of increasing leptin levels in the hypothalamus using gene therapy with conventional caloric restriction on weight gain, food consumption, serum leptin and adiponectin levels, white adipose tissue, marrow adipose tissue, and bone in nine-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats. Rats (n = 16) were implanted with a cannula in the 3rd ventricle of the hypothalamus and injected with a recombinant adeno-associated virus, encoding the rat gene for leptin (rAAV-Lep), and maintained on standard rat chow for 18 weeks. A second group (n = 15) was calorically-restricted to match the weight of the rAAV-Lep group. Both approaches prevented weight gain, and no differences in bone were detected. However, calorically-restricted rats consumed 15% less food and had lower brown adipose tissue Ucp-1 mRNA expression than rAAV-Lep rats. Additionally, calorically-restricted rats had higher abdominal white adipose tissue mass, higher serum leptin and adiponectin levels, and higher marrow adiposity. Caloric restriction and hypothalamic leptin gene therapy, while equally effective in preventing weight gain, differ in their effects on energy intake, energy expenditure, adipokine levels, and body composition.
Using RNA-Sequencing Data to Examine Tissue-Specific Garlic Microbiomes
Authors: Jo Yeonhwa , Back Chang-Gi , Kim Kook-Hyung , Chu Hyosub , Lee Jeong Hun , Moh Sang Hyun , Cho Won Kyong
Published: June 2021

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a perennial bulbous plant. Due to its clonal propagation, various diseases threaten the yield and quality of garlic. In this study, we conducted in silico analysis to identify microorganisms, bacteria, fungi, and viruses in six different tissues using garlic RNA-sequencing data. The number of identified microbial species was the highest in inflorescences, followed by flowers and bulb cloves. With the Kraken2 tool, 57% of identified microbial reads were assigned to bacteria and 41% were assigned to viruses. Fungi only made up 1% of microbial reads. At the species level, Streptomyces lividans was the most dominant bacteria while Fusarium pseudograminearum was the most abundant fungi. Several allexiviruses were identified. Of them, the most abundant virus was garlic virus C followed by shallot virus X. We obtained a total of 14 viral genome sequences for four allexiviruses. As we expected, the microbial community varied depending on the tissue types, although there was a dominant microorganism in each tissue. In addition, we found that Kraken2 was a very powerful and efficient tool for the bacteria using RNA-sequencing data with some limitations for virome study.
Four Weeks of Aerobic Training Affects Cardiac Tissue Matrix Metalloproteinase, Lactate Dehydrogenase and Malate Dehydrogenase Enzymes Activities, and Hepatorenal Biomarkers in Experimental Hyperhomocysteinemia in Rats
Authors: Todorovic Dusan , Stojanovic Marija , Medic Ana , Gopcevic Kristina , Mutavdzin Slavica , Stankovic Sanja , Djuric Dragan
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the application of homocysteine as well as its effect under the condition of aerobic physical activity on the activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH) in cardiac tissue and on hepato-renal biochemical parameters in sera of rats. Male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups (n = 10, per group): C: 0.9% NaCl 0.2 mL/day subcutaneous injection (s.c.); H: homocysteine 0.45 µmol/g b.w./day s.c.; CPA saline (0.9% NaCl 0.2 mL/day s.c.) and a program of physical activity on a treadmill; and HPA homocysteine (0.45 µmol/g b.w./day s.c.) and a program of physical activity on a treadmill. Subcutaneous injection of substances was applied 2 times a day at intervals of 8 h during the first two weeks of experimental protocol. Hcy level in serum was significantly higher in the HPA group compared to the CPA group (p < 0.05). Levels of glucose, proteins, albumin, and hepatorenal biomarkers were higher in active groups compared with the sedentary group. It was demonstrated that the increased activities of LDH (mainly caused by higher activity of isoform LDH2) and mMDH were found under the condition of homocysteine-treated rats plus aerobic physical activity. Independent application of homocysteine did not lead to these changes. Physical activity leads to activation of MMP-2 isoform and to increased activity of MMP-9 isoform in both homocysteine-treated and control rats.
The Effects of Physical Activity on the Aging of Circulating Immune Cells in Humans: A Systematic Review
Authors: Brauer Lara , Krüger Karsten , Weyh Christopher , Alack Katharina
Published: June 2021

Age-induced cellular senescence leads to a decline in efficacy of immune response and an increase in morbidity and mortality. Physical activity may be an intervention to slow down or reverse this process for elderly individuals or even delay it via enhanced activity over their lifespan. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze and discuss the current evidence of the effects of physical activity on senescence in leukocyte subpopulations. Two electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science) were scanned in July 2020. Studies performing endurance or resistance exercise programs and investigating leukocytes of healthy, particularly elderly subjects were included. Nine human studies were identified, including a total of 440 participants, of which two studies examined different types of exercise training retrospectively, three conducted resistance exercise, three endurance exercise, and one endurance vs. resistance training. Results revealed that exercise training increased the naïve subsets of peripheral T-helper cells and cytotoxic T-cells, whereas the senescent and effector memory T-cells re-expresses CD45RA (TEMRA) subsets decreased. Moreover, the percentage of T-helper- compared to cytotoxic T-cells increased. The results suggest that physical activity reduces or slows down cellular immunosenescence. Endurance exercise seems to affect cellular senescence in a more positive way than resistance training. However, training contents and sex also influence senescent cells. Explicit mechanisms need to be clarified.
Female Sexual Dysfunction in Primary Adrenal Insufficiency
Authors: Zamponi Virginia , Lardo Pina , Maggio Roberta , Simonini Chiara , Mazzilli Rossella , Faggiano Antongiulio , Pugliese Giuseppe , Stigliano Antonio
Published: June 2021

Purpose. No data are currently available on female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and the possible impact of replacement therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of FSD and sexual distress (SD), and to evaluate the possible impact of replacement therapy on sexuality in women with PAI. Methods. Female Sexual Function Index-6 (FSFI-6) and Sexual Distress Scale (SDS) questionnaires were administered to 22 women with PAI and 23 healthy women matched for age as controls. Results. The prevalence of sexual symptoms measured by FSFI-6 (total score < 19) was significantly higher in women with PAI (15/22; 68.2%) compared to the controls (2/23; 8.7%; p = 0.001). Regarding the questionnaire items, significantly different scores were found for desire (p < 0.001), arousal (p = 0.0006), lubrication (p = 0.046) and overall sexual satisfaction (p < 0.0001) in women with PAI compared to the controls. The rate of FSD (FSFI < 19 with SDS >15) was 60% in patients with PAI. A significant inverse correlation was found between FSFI-6 total scores and SD (r = −0.65; p = 0.0011), while a significant direct correlation was found between FSFI-6 total scores and serum cortisol levels (r = 0.55; p = 0.035). Conclusions. A higher prevalence of FSD was found in women affected by PAI compared to healthy women. Desire seems to be the most impaired aspect of sexual function. Moreover, sexual dysfunction in this population seems to be related to sexual distress and cortisol levels.
Novel Biomarkers in Heart Failure: New Insight in Pathophysiology and Clinical Perspective
Authors: Biasucci Luigi Marzio , Maino Alessandro , Grimaldi Maria Chiara , Cappannoli Luigi , Aspromonte Nadia
Published: June 2021

Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome with a huge social burden in terms of cost, morbidity, and mortality. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) appears to be the gold standard in supporting the daily clinical management of patients with HF. Novel biomarkers may supplement BNP to improve the understanding of this complex disease process and, possibly, to personalize care for the different phenotypes, in order to ameliorate prognosis. In this review, we will examine some of the most promising novel biomarkers in HF. Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the genesis and progression of HF and, therefore, several candidate molecules have been investigated in recent years for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy monitoring. Noncoding RNAs are attractive as biomarkers and their potential clinical applications may be feasible in the era of personalized medicine. Given the complex pathophysiology of HF, it is reasonable to expect that the future of biomarkers lies in the application of precision medicine, through wider testing panels and “omics” technologies, to further improve HF care delivery.
Experimental and Numerical Investigations into Magnetic Pulse Welding of Aluminum Alloy 6016 to Hardened Steel 22MnB5
Authors: Drehmann Rico , Scheffler Christian , Winter Sven , Psyk Verena , Kräusel Verena , Lampke Thomas
Published: June 2021

By means of magnetic pulse welding (MPW), high-quality joints can be produced without some of the disadvantages of conventional welding, such as thermal softening, distortion, and other undesired temperature-induced effects. However, the range of materials that have successfully been joined by MPW is mainly limited to comparatively soft materials such as copper or aluminum. This paper presents an extensive experimental study leading to a process window for the successful MPW of aluminum alloy 6016 (AA6016) to hardened 22MnB5 steel sheets. This window is defined by the impact velocity and impact angle of the AA6016 flyer. These parameters, which are significantly dependent on the initial gap between flyer and target, the charging energy of the pulse power generator, and the lateral position of the flyer in relation to the inductor, were determined by a macroscopic coupled multiphysics simulation in LS-DYNA. The welded samples were mechanically characterized by lap shear tests. Furthermore, the bonding zone was analyzed by optical and scanning electron microscopy including energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy as well as nanoindentation. It was found that the samples exhibited a wavy interface and a transition zone consisting of Al-rich intermetallic phases. Samples with comparatively thin and therefore crack-free transition zones showed a 45% higher shear tensile strength resulting in failure in the aluminum base material.
Genomics as a Clinical Decision Support Tool: Successful Proof of Concept for Improved ASD Outcomes
Authors: Way Heather , Williams Grant , Hausman-Cohen Sharon , Reeder Jordan
Published: June 2021

Considerable evidence is emerging that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is most often triggered by a range of different genetic variants that interact with environmental factors such as exposures to toxicants and changes to the food supply. Up to 80% of genetic variations that contribute to ASD found to date are neither extremely rare nor classified as pathogenic. Rather, they are less common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), found in 1–15% or more of the population, that by themselves are not disease-causing. These genomic variants contribute to ASD by interacting with each other, along with nutritional and environmental factors. Examples of pathways affected or triggered include those related to brain inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuronal connectivity, synapse formation, impaired detoxification, methylation, and neurotransmitter-related effects. This article presents information on four case study patients that are part of a larger ongoing pilot study. A genomic clinical decision support (CDS) tool that specifically focuses on variants and pathways that have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders was used in this pilot study to help develop a targeted, personalized prevention and intervention strategy for each child. In addition to an individual’s genetic makeup, each patient’s personal history, diet, and environmental factors were considered. The CDS tool also looked at genomic SNPs associated with secondary comorbid ASD conditions including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal infections/pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANDAS/PANS). The interpreted genomics tool helped the treating clinician identify and develop personalized, genomically targeted treatment plans. Utilization of this treatment approach was associated with significant improvements in socialization and verbal skills, academic milestones and intelligence quotient (IQ), and overall increased ability to function in these children, as measured by autism treatment evaluation checklist (ATEC) scores and parent interviews.
Applying the Evaluation of Cultural Ecosystem Services in Landscape Architecture Design: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Cheng Xin , Van Damme Sylvie , Uyttenhove Pieter
Published: June 2021

Landscape architects play a significant role in safeguarding urban landscapes and human well-being by means of design and they call for practical knowledge, skills, and methods to address increasing environmental pressure. Cultural ecosystem services (CES) are recognized as highly related to landscape architecture (LA) studies, and the outcomes of CES evaluations have the potential to support LA practice. However, few efforts have focused on systematically investigating CES in LA studies. Additionally, how CES evaluations are performed in LA studies is rarely researched. This study aims to identify the challenges and provide recommendations for applying CES evaluations to LA practice, focusing specifically on LA design. To conclude, three challenges are identified, namely a lack of consistent concepts (conceptual challenge); a lack of CES evaluation methods to inform designs (methodological challenge); and practical issues of transferring CES evaluations to LA design (practical challenge). Based on our findings, we highlight using CES as a common term to refer to socio-cultural values and encourage more CES evaluation methods to be developed and tested for LA design. In addition, we encourage more studies to explore the links of CES and landscape features and address other practical issues to better transfer CES evaluations onto LA designs.
Combining Traffic Microsimulation Modeling and Multi-Criteria Analysis for Sustainable Spatial-Traffic Planning
Authors: Ištoka Otković Irena , Karleuša Barbara , Deluka-Tibljaš Aleksandra , Šurdonja Sanja , Marušić Mario
Published: June 2021

Spatial and traffic planning is important in order to achieve a quality, safe, functional, and integrated urban environment. Different tools and expert models were developed that are aimed at a more objective view of the consequences of reconstruction in different spatial and temporal ranges while respecting selection criteria. In this paper we analyze the application of the multi-criteria analysis method when choosing sustainable traffic solutions in the center of a small town, in this case Belišće, Croatia. The goal of this paper is to examine the possibility of improving the methodology for selecting an optimal spatial–traffic solution by combining the quantifiable results of the traffic microsimulation and the method of multi-criteria optimization. Socially sensitive design should include psychological and social evaluation criteria that are included in this paper as qualitative spatial–urban criteria. In the optimization process, different stakeholder groups (experts, students, and citizens) were actively involved in evaluating the importance of selected criteria. The analysis of stakeholders’ survey results showed statistically significant differences in criteria preference among three groups. The AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) multi-criteria analysis method was used; a total of five criteria groups (functional, safety, economic, environmental, and spatial–urban) were developed, which contain 21 criteria and 7 sub-criteria; and the weights of criteria groups were varied based on stakeholders’ preferences. The application of the developed methodology enabled the selection of an optimal solution for the improvement of traffic conditions in a small city with the potential to also be applied to other types of traffic–spatial problems and assure sustainable traffic planning.
Correction: Turlakiewicz et al. The Role of Mesh Implants in Surgical Treatment of Parastomal Hernia. Materials 2021, 14, 1062
Authors: Turlakiewicz Karolina , Puchalski Michał , Krucińska Izabella , Sujka Witold
Published: June 2021

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Bone Morphogenetic Proteins, Carriers, and Animal Models in the Development of Novel Bone Regenerative Therapies
Authors: Stokovic Nikola , Ivanjko Natalia , Maticic Drazen , Luyten Frank P. , Vukicevic Slobodan
Published: June 2021

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) possess a unique ability to induce new bone formation. Numerous preclinical studies have been conducted to develop novel, BMP-based osteoinductive devices for the management of segmental bone defects and posterolateral spinal fusion (PLF). In these studies, BMPs were combined with a broad range of carriers (natural and synthetic polymers, inorganic materials, and their combinations) and tested in various models in mice, rats, rabbits, dogs, sheep, and non-human primates. In this review, we summarized bone regeneration strategies and animal models used for the initial, intermediate, and advanced evaluation of promising therapeutical solutions for new bone formation and repair. Moreover, in this review, we discuss basic aspects to be considered when planning animal experiments, including anatomical characteristics of the species used, appropriate BMP dosing, duration of the observation period, and sample size.
Mechanical and Microstructural Characteristics of Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement Exposed to Early-Age Carbonation Curing
Authors: Wang Weikang , Wei Xuanchun , Cai Xinhua , Deng Hongyang , Li Bokang
Published: June 2021

The early-age carbonation curing technique is an effective way to improve the performance of cement-based materials and reduce their carbon footprint. This work investigates the early mechanical properties and microstructure of calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement specimens under early-age carbonation curing, considering five factors: briquetting pressure, water–binder (w/b) ratio, starting point of carbonation curing, carbonation curing time, and carbonation curing pressure. The carbonization process and performance enhancement mechanism of CSA cement are analyzed by mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), thermogravimetry and derivative thermogravimetry (TG-DTG) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that early-age carbonation curing can accelerate the hardening speed of CSA cement paste, reduce the cumulative porosity of the cement paste, refine the pore diameter distribution, and make the pore diameter distribution more uniform, thus greatly improving the early compressive strength of the paste. The most favorable w/b ratio for the carbonization reaction of CSA cement paste is between 0.15 and 0.2; the most suitable carbonation curing starting time point is 4 h after initial hydration; the carbonation curing pressure should be between 3 and 4 bar; and the most appropriate time for carbonation curing is between 6 and 12 h.