bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protocol: Using Single-Case Experimental Design to Evaluate Whole-Body Dynamic Seating on Activity, Participation, and Quality of Life in Dystonic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Gimeno Hortensia , Adlam Tim
Published: January 2020

Introduction: People with hyperkinetic movement disorders, including dystonia, experience often painful, involuntary movements affecting functioning. Seating comfort is a key unmet need identified by families. This paper reports a protocol to assess the feasibility and preliminary evidence for the efficacy of dynamic seating to improve functional outcomes for young children with dystonic cerebral palsy (DCP). Design: A series of single-case experimental design N-of-1 trials, with replications across participants, with a random baseline interval, and one treatment period (n = 6). Methods: Inclusion criteria: DCP; 21.5 cm < popliteal fossa to posterior sacrum < 35 cm; Gross Motor Function Classification System level IV–V; mini-Manual Ability Classification System level IV–V; difficulties with seating. Intervention: Trial of the seat (8 weeks), with multiple baseline before, during and after intervention and 2 month follow up. The baseline duration will be randomised per child (2–7 weeks). Primary outcomes: Performance Quality Rating Scale; Canadian Occupational Performance Measure; seating tolerance. The statistician will create the randomization, with allocation concealment by registration of participants prior to sending the allocation arm to the principal investigator. Primary outcomes will be assessed from video by an assessor blind to allocation. Analysis: Participant outcome data will be plotted over time, with parametric and non-parametric analysis including estimated size effect for N-of-1 trials.
Differences between WHO Growth Standards and China Growth Standards in Assessing the Nutritional Status of Children Aged 0–36 Months Old
Authors: Tian Qianling , Gao Xiao , Sha Tingting , He Qiong , Cheng Gang , Wu Xialing , Yang Fan , Wu Xihong , Tang Cai , Xie Qunhui , Yan Yan
Published: January 2020

Background: At present, whether to use the World Health Organization’s (WHO) growth standards or native growth standards to assess the nutritional status in a given population is unclear. This study aimed to compare the differences between the WHO’s growth standards and China’s growth standards in assessing the nutritional status of children aged 0~36 months. Methods: We used z-scores to evaluate the nutritional status of children. The weight-for-age z-scores (WAZs), length/height-for-age z-scores (LAZ/HAZs), and weight-for-length/height z-scores (WLZ/WHZs) were calculated using the WHO’s growth standards and China’s growth standards. MeNemar’s test was used to compare the nutritional status of children. Results: The results in this study showed that there were differences between the WHO’s standards and China’s standards in assessing children’s nutritional status except for stunting and obesity. The prevalence of underweight assessed using China’s standards was higher than when using the WHO’s standards (except when 3 and 36 months old). The prevalence of wasting was significantly higher when assessed using China’s standards than when using the WHO’s standards from 12 to 36 months. The prevalence of overweight was higher when assessed using the WHO’s standards from 3 to 8 months. Conclusions: Both the WHO’s and China’s growth standards are useful measures in assessing children’s nutritional status but with key significant differences. Therefore, caution should be taken in selecting appropriate measures in a given population.
Salivary Microbiome and Cigarette Smoking: A First of Its Kind Investigation in Jordan
Authors: Al-Zyoud Walid , Hajjo Rima , Abu-Siniyeh Ahmed , Hajjaj Sarah
Published: January 2020

There is accumulating evidence in the biomedical literature suggesting the role of smoking in increasing the risk of oral diseases including some oral cancers. Smoking alters microbial attributes of the oral cavity by decreasing the commensal microbial population and increasing the pathogenic microbes. This study aims to investigate the shift in the salivary microbiota between smokers and non-smokers in Jordan. Our methods relied on high-throughput next-generation sequencing (NGS) experiments for V3-V4 hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA gene, followed by comprehensive bioinformatics analysis including advanced multidimensional data visualization methods and statistical analysis approaches. Six genera—Streptococcus, Prevotella, Vellionella, Rothia, Neisseria, and Haemophilus—predominated the salivary microbiota of all samples with different percentages suggesting the possibility for the salivary microbiome to restored after quitting smoking. Three genera—Streptococcus, Prevotella, and Veillonella—showed significantly elevated levels among smokers at the expense of Neisseria in non-smokers. In conclusion, smoking has a definite impact on shifting the salivary microbiota in smokers. We can suggest that there is microbial signature at the genera level that can be used to classify smokers and non-smokers by Linear Discriminant Analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) based on the salivary abundance of genera. Proteomics and metabolomics studies are highly recommended to fully understand the effect of bacterial endotoxin release and xenobiotic metabolism on the bacterial interrelationships in the salivary microbiome and how they affect the growth of each other in the saliva of smokers.
Alcohol Consumption Frequency of Parents and Stress Status of Their Children: Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007–2016)
Authors: Kim Serin , Chae Wonjeong , Min Seung Heon , Kim Yerim , Jang Sung-In
Published: January 2020

Background: The effect of stress on mental health has been increasingly acknowledged. Drinking habits are closely inter-related with stress and each affects the other. However, only limited studies addressed the effects of alcohol consumption on family members apart from spouses. The purpose of this study is to better understand the relationship between parent drinking frequency and their children’s self-reported stress. Methods: Data was collected from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (K-NHANES) conducted during 2007–2016. Respondents were divided into three groups: children (n = 3796), maternal (n = 22,418), and paternal (n = 16,437). After merging the children and parents data sets, we identified the final study population of 3017 and performed binary logistic regression. Results: We found that the odds of high stress cognition was 1.58-fold higher for children who have heavy drinking mother (95% CI: 1.14–2.19) and 1.45-fold higher for those who have heavy drinking father (95% CI: 1.06–1.99). In a subgroup analysis, children whose household income level was Q1 and maternal occupation was white collar showed a statistically significant association of high stress with parental drinking frequency. Conclusions: Parental drinking frequency negatively impacts stress in the children of drinkers. We suggest providing support care for children in vulnerable environments to improve their stress levels.
Erratum: Florida Arsenic Distribution Index: Quantifying the Distribution of Past and Present Arsenic Usage
Authors: Scott-Richardson Maya , O’Hara Ruiz Marilyn , L. Smith Rebecca
Published: January 2020

The authors wish to add the following correction to their paper published in IJERPH [...]
Probiotic Properties of Bacillus Strains Isolated from Stingless Bee (Heterotrigona itama) Honey Collected across Malaysia
Authors: Zulkhairi Amin Fatin Aina , Sabri Suriana , Ismail Maznah , Chan Kim Wei , Ismail Norsharina , Mohd Esa Norhaizan , Mohd Lila Mohd Azmi , Zawawi Norhasnida
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to isolate, identify, and evaluate the probiotic properties of Bacillus species from honey of the stingless bee Heterotrigona itama. Bacillus spp. were isolated from five different H. itama meliponicultures, and the isolates were characterized through Gram-staining and a catalase test. Tolerance to acidic conditions and bile salt (0.3%), hydrophobicity, and autoaggregation tests were performed to assess the probiotic properties of the selected isolates, B. amyloliquefaciens HTI-19 and B. subtilis HTI-23. Both Bacillus isolates exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and possessed significantly high survival rates in 0.3% bile solution for 3 h. Their survival rates in acidic conditions were also comparable to a commercial probiotic strain, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. Interestingly, the hydrophobicity and autoaggregation percentage showed no significant difference from L. rhamnosus GG, a commercial probiotic strain. The results from this study suggest that B. amyloliquefaciens HTI-19 and B. subtilis HTI-23 isolated from stingless bee honey have considerably good probiotic properties. Therefore, more studies should be done to investigate the effects of these bacteria cultures on gastrointestinal health.
The Relationship between Challenge and Hindrance Stressors and Emotional Exhaustion: The Moderating Role of Perceived Servant Leadership
Authors: Wu Hongchao , Qiu Shaoping , Dooley Larry M. , Ma Congying
Published: January 2020

Schoolteachers worldwide are facing stressful work conditions with heavy responsibilities. Stress may contribute to psychological disorders and physical health issues. The purposes of this study were (1) to investigate whether both challenge and hindrance stressors are positively associated with emotional exhaustion among Chinese schoolteachers and (2) to examine whether perceived servant leadership moderates the effects of challenge and hindrance stressors on emotional exhaustion. This study was cross-sectional in nature. A sample of 2636 schoolteachers was elicited from schools in South China. Research data were collected in the fall semester of 2019 via WeChat®. Descriptive statistics and inter-correlations were conducted using SPSS 21. Confirmatory factor analysis was applied to test measurement models to determine convergent and discriminant validities using Mplus 7.4. Hierarchical multiple regression was performed to test proposed hypotheses using SPSS 21. The study results demonstrated that both challenge and hindrance stressors were positively related to emotional exhaustion among schoolteachers in Chinese schools. It was also indicated that, while perceived servant leadership buffers the relationship between challenge stressor and emotional exhaustion, it enhances the relationship between hindrance stressor and emotional exhaustion. Implications and limitations are also provided.
Laboratory Parameters of Hemostasis, Adhesion Molecules, and Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Correlation with Glycemic Control
Authors: Palella Eleonora , Cimino Rossella , Pullano Salvatore A. , Fiorillo Antonino S. , Gulletta Elio , Brunetti Antonio , Foti Daniela P. , Greco Marta
Published: January 2020

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by a prothrombotic state, predisposing to vascular complications. Some related markers, linking thrombophilia to hemostasis and inflammation, however, have been poorly explored in relation to patients’ glycemia. We therefore investigated the association of laboratory hemostatic parameters, circulating adhesion molecules (ADMs), white blood cell (WBC) count, and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with T2DM and glycemic control. Research design: In this study, 82 subjects, grouped into T2DM patients (n = 41) and healthy individuals (n = 41) were enrolled. To evaluate glycemic control, the T2DM cohort was expanded to 133 patients and sub-classified according to glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <7% and ≥ 7% (n = 58 and n = 75, respectively). We assessed glycemia, HbA1c, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), platelet and leukocyte parameters, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and selectins (E-, P-, L-). Results: PT % activity, PAI-1, VCAM-1, WBC, and neutrophil counts were significantly higher in T2DM patients than in healthy subjects. Poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7%) was correlated with increased PT activity (p = 0.015), and higher levels of E-selectin (p = 0.009), P-selectin (p = 0.012), and NLR (p = 0.019). Conclusions: Both T2DM and poor glycemic control affect some parameters of hemostasis, inflammation, and adhesion molecules. Further studies are needed to establish their clinical utility as adjuvant markers for cardio-vascular risk in T2DM patients.
Injury Prevention: Freestylers’ Awareness of FIS Code of Conduct for Snow Parks
Authors: Carus Luis , Castillo Isabel
Published: January 2020

The objectives of the present study were to assess general perceptions of safety in snow parks (SPs), general knowledge of rules existence, and both active and passive awareness of the International Ski Federation (FIS) rules contained in its Code of Conduct for SPs in order to define target groups for injury prevention-specific education interventions. Data were drawn from 436 freestylers randomly interviewed. The study was conducted during the 2018–2019 winter season in the SP of a major winter resort located in the Spanish Pyrenees. A questionnaire assessing personal data (gender, age, gear used, self-reported skill, and frequency of use), general perceptions on safety, general request for rules, and awareness of existing rules in SPs was developed. Chi-square goodness-of-fit tests were used to compare characteristics between groups. It was revealed, for accident prevention purposes, a concerning general lack of knowledge of existing rules in SPs (63% of participants ignored them). Risk-inducing situations that could result in severe injuries, such as familiarity with the right progression in choosing features and/or stunts or with safety equipment, were largely assessed incorrectly (94% and 70% of participants, respectively). Appropriate intuitive behavior increases with experience: youths and beginners are less able to implement FIS rules than more experienced freestylers.
Application of Spatiotemporal Hybrid Model of Deformation in Safety Monitoring of High Arch Dams: A Case Study
Authors: Gu Chongshi , Fu Xiao , Shao Chenfei , Shi Zhongwen , Su Huaizhi
Published: January 2020

As an important feature, deformation analysis is of great significance to ensure the safety and stability of arch dam operation. In this paper, Jinping-I arch dam with a height of 305 m, which is the highest dam in the world, is taken as the research object. The deformation data representation method is analyzed, and the processing method of deformation spatiotemporal data is discussed. A deformation hybrid model is established, in which the hydraulic component is calculated by the finite element method, and other components are still calculated by the statistical model method. Since the relationship among the measuring points is not taken into account and the overall situation cannot be fully reflected in the hybrid model, a spatiotemporal hybrid model is proposed. The measured values and coordinates of all the typical points with pendulums of the arch dam are included in one spatiotemporal hybrid model, which is feasible, convenient, and accurate. The model can predict the deformation of any position on the arch dam. This is of great significance for real-time monitoring of deformation and stability of Jinping-I arch dam and ensuring its operation safety.
Experiences of Tobacco Use among Chinese Individuals with Schizophrenia in Community-Based Residential Settings: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mak Yim Wah , Chiang Vico C. L. , Loke Alice Yuen
Published: January 2020

Although there is a high prevalence of smoking among individuals with schizophrenia, no previous attempt has been made to explore experiences of tobacco use and cessation within a Chinese sample of this population. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted to explore through the use of individual and semi-structured interviews the experiences of tobacco use and quitting in a sample Chinese population with schizophrenia. Twenty-three eligible participants with schizophrenia who currently smoke were recruited from three community residential mental health service settings. Four main themes representing the experiences of the participants were uncovered in this study: (1) smoking and illness; (2) environment and culture; (3) reasons for smoking; and (4) beliefs about cessation methods. The findings indicated that the participants considered the disease to be far more harmful than smoking, and perceived many benefits to smoking. Although some thought of quitting at times, most gave up the idea or failed to quit due to internal factors such as disease-related suffering, the use of an avoidance coping strategy, and a lack of cessation support. The most notable finding concerns the use of avoidance coping by the participants, who relied on smoking as a way to avoid the suffering brought about by the disease.
Sociodemographic and Regional Determinants of Dietary Patterns in Russia
Authors: Maksimov Sergey , Karamnova Natalia , Shalnova Svetlana , Drapkina Oksana
Published: January 2020

An empirical assessment of diets using a posteriori analysis allows us to define actual dietary patterns (DPs) in the food consumption structure of a population. This study represents an a posteriori assessment of DPs for the Russian population in general as well as their dependence on socio-demographic and regional parameters. The data were obtained from 21,923 individuals aged 25–64 years old from a Russian multicenter study of “Epidemiology of Cardiovascular Diseases in the Regions of the Russian Federation” conducted in 2013–2014. Cross-sectional study subjects were interviewed face-to-face in order to obtain data on their diet. DPs were defined using principal component analysis. Four DPs were specified as “Rational”, “Salt”, “Meat”, and “Mixed”; all these variants together accounted for 55.9% of variance. Diets in gender and age groups corresponded to those for an all-Russian population; in several regions, the defined diets differed from the all-Russian ones. More favorable diet trends were observed among women, people with no family, people not working, and urban dwellers, and diet trends were more favorable with an increase in age, level of education, and material wealth. Thus, a posteriori DPs were defined for the Russian population, which were stable in sex/age groups and were mediated by the socio-demographic characteristics of the population.
Sleep Regularity Index in Patients with Alcohol Dependence: Daytime Napping and Mood Disorders as Correlates of Interest
Authors: Brooks Alyssa T. , Raju Shravya , Barb Jennifer J. , Kazmi Narjis , Chakravorty Subhajit , Krumlauf Michael , Wallen Gwenyth R.
Published: January 2020

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is often accompanied by comorbid conditions, including sleep disturbances related to sleep regularity and timing. The Sleep Regularity Index (SRI) is a novel measure that assesses the probability that an individual is awake (vs. asleep) at any two time points 24 h apart. We calculated actigraphy-based SRI on 124 participants with alcohol dependence to capture the effects of changes in sleep timing and duration among patients enrolled in an inpatient alcohol treatment program. During the course of the study, the mean SRI increased between weeks 1 and 3 (75.4 to 77.8), thus indicating slightly improved sleep quality and regularity during alcohol treatment. Individuals within the bottom quartile of SRI scores at week 1 improved significantly over time. Average total SRI for individuals with no mood disorders was slightly higher than that for individuals with one or more mood disorders. Increased SRI scores were associated with lower total nap duration from week 1 to week 3. Increased SRI scores were associated with decreased mental/physical exhaustion scores from week 1 to week 3. The SRI could be a target for assessment/intervention in certain sub-groups of individuals undergoing inpatient treatment for AUD.
Automatic Geodata Processing Methods for Real-World City Visualizations in Cities: Skylines
Authors: Pinos Jan , Vozenilek Vit , Pavlis Ondrej
Published: January 2020

The city-building game Cities: Skylines simulates urban-related processes in a visually appealing 3D environment and thus offers interesting possibilities for visualizations of real-world places. Such visualizations could be used for presentation, participation, or education projects. However, the creation process of the game model from geographical data is inaccurate, complicated, and time consuming, thus preventing the wider use of this game for non-entertainment purposes. This paper presents the automatic methods scripted in the Cities: Skylines application programming interface (API) and bundled into a game modification (commonly referred to as a game mod) named GeoSkylines, to create a geographically accurate visualization of real-world places in Cities: Skylines. Based on various geographical data, the presented methods create road and rail networks, tree coverage, water basins, planning zones, buildings, and services. Using these methods, playable models of the cities of Svit (Slovakia) and Olomouc (Czech Republic) were created in the game. The game mod GeoSkylines also provides methods for exporting game objects such as roads, buildings, and zones into a Geographic Information System (GIS) data format that can be processed further. This feature enables the game Cities: Skylines to be utilized as a data collection tool that could be used in redevelopment design projects.
Patterns of School Preference about the Local Heritage in Medium-Size Cities of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain). The Case of Ciudad Real
Authors: Rodríguez Domenech María Ángeles , Callejas Albiñana Ana Isabel , González-Mohino Sánchez Miguel
Published: January 2020

Context: The comprehension of patterns regarding the knowledge that grade schoolers of a certain city have, just like the facts which favor or alter this, been of great interest, as they allow one to conduct subsequent comparative analyses with groups affected by particular susceptibilities related to the place where they study in that city. Problem: The objective of the present work focuses on the knowledge of one of those patterns: The local heritage (cultural, natural, services and leisure), that a school-age population from a medium-sized city as Ciudad Real has, resolving the impact that factors such as school location, sociocultural background and age may have on the preference of that heritage. Methodology: To verify this, a sample of 200 people was taken, all of whom resided in Ciudad Real during the school year 2017/2018.Results and Conclusions: From the analysis of the results from this study, we can come to the conclusion that preference over city heritage cannot be predicted based on proximity of the participant’s school, as this is not a decisive element according to the analyzed sample. However, this study is of great interest to local authorities since it allows one to establish strategies that seek a better understanding of all the heritages of the city based on a source of ignorance.
Identification of Salt Deposits on Seismic Images Using Deep Learning Method for Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Milosavljević Aleksandar
Published: January 2020

Several areas of Earth that are rich in oil and natural gas also have huge deposits of salt below the surface. Because of this connection, knowing precise locations of large salt deposits is extremely important to companies involved in oil and gas exploration. To locate salt bodies, professional seismic imaging is needed. These images are analyzed by human experts which leads to very subjective and highly variable renderings. To motivate automation and increase the accuracy of this process, TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company (TGS) has sponsored a Kaggle competition that was held in the second half of 2018. The competition was very popular, gathering 3221 individuals and teams. Data for the competition included a training set of 4000 seismic image patches and corresponding segmentation masks. The test set contained 18,000 seismic image patches used for evaluation (all images are 101 × 101 pixels). Depth information of the sample location was also provided for every seismic image patch. The method presented in this paper is based on the author’s participation and it relies on training a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) for semantic segmentation. The architecture of the proposed network is inspired by the U-Net model in combination with ResNet and DenseNet architectures. To better comprehend the properties of the proposed architecture, a series of experiments were conducted applying standardized approaches using the same training framework. The results showed that the proposed architecture is comparable and, in most cases, better than these segmentation models.
A Vertex Concavity-Convexity Detection Method for Three-Dimensional Spatial Objects Based on Geometric Algebra
Authors: Yin Pengcheng , Zhang Jiyi , Sun Xiying , Hu Di , Shi Zhifeng , Wu Chengyan
Published: January 2020

Vertex concavity-convexity detection for spatial objects is a basic algorithm of computer graphics, as well as the foundation for the implementation of other graphics algorithms. In recent years, the importance of the vertex concavity-convexity detection algorithm for three-dimensional (3D) spatial objects has been increasingly highlighted, with the development of 3D modeling, artificial intelligence, and other graphics technologies. Nonetheless, the currently available vertex concavity-convexity detection algorithms mostly use two-dimensional (2D) polygons, with limited research on vertex concavity-convexity detection algorithms for 3D polyhedrons. This study investigates the correlation between the outer product and the topology of the spatial object based on the unique characteristic that the outer product operation in the geometric algebra has unified and definitive geometric implications in space, and with varied dimensionality. Moreover, a multi-dimensional unified vertex concavity-convexity detection algorithm framework for spatial objects is proposed, and this framework is capable of detecting vertex concavity-convexity for both 2D simple polygons and 3D simple polyhedrons.
Reduction of Circular Arcs in European Cadastral Systems—The Proposal of a Solution Referring to the Recommendations of the INSPIRE Data Specification on Cadastral Parcels
Authors: Zygmunt Mariusz , Gargula Tadeusz , Klapa Przemysław
Published: January 2020

Circular arcs are a graphical element present in the cadastral systems of many countries. Unfortunately, this type of record of the geometry of parcel borders is a problem described by the directives of Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe (INSPIRE) Data Specification on Cadastral Parcels. Because of the difficulties of using such geometric objects, the solution to this problem, as recommended by the European Commission, should be monitored. The target effect should be a cadastral data model based solely on linear segments. Solutions based on a classic approach of converting such data (like arcs), unfortunately, always involves changes of one of the most important attributes of a parcel—its area. The paper presents a proposal for solving this important problem using an algorithm, ensuring the preservation of the area of the parcels after converting the arcs into linear segments. Moreover, attention was paid to the technical aspects of the proposed changes.
Land Suitability for Sustainable Aquaculture of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Molinopampa (Peru) Based on RS, GIS, and AHP
Authors: Calle Yunis Christian Ricardo , Salas López Rolando , Cruz Segundo Manuel Oliva , Barboza Castillo Elgar , Silva López Jhonsy Omar , Iliquín Trigoso Daniel , Briceño Nilton B. Rojas
Published: January 2020

Peruvian aquaculture, specifically trout production, has had significant growth over the past ten years. However, the establishment and expansion of small-scale aquaculture have been carried out without considering the suitability of the land. In Peru, such land suitability studies have yet to be reported. Therefore, a methodological framework is presented for inland aquaculture, which may be replicated, with the necessary complements, for the entire Fisheries and Aquaculture sector in Peru. This work modeled the suitability of land for sustainable rainbow trout aquaculture in the Molinopampa district (Peru). Fifteen key criteria (socioeconomic, environmental and physicochemical) were identified for the proper development of fish activity. These were mapped using Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was applied to build peer-to-peer comparison matrices and weight the importance of the criteria. The weighted overlay of maps (criteria) made it possible to determine that 4.26%, 23.03% and 69.73% of the territory is “very suitable”, “moderately suitable” and “marginally suitable”, respectively, for the development of aquaculture. The implementation of this methodology will contribute to more effective investment planning and efforts, both by the government and by private initiative.
Towards Supporting Collaborative Spatial Planning: Conceptualization of a Maptable Tool through User Stories
Authors: Aguilar Rosa , Flacke Johannes , Pfeffer Karin
Published: January 2020

Geographic information-based planning support tools implemented in a maptable have the potential to mediate collaborative spatial planning processes. However, available tools for a maptable either lack advanced analytical functions or have usability shortcomings. Given these limitations, this research aims to conceptualize an interactive planning support tool intended to fully exploit maptable capabilities while providing spatial analytical functions to better support planning and decision-making processes with a larger group of participants. To do so, we conducted a literature review of reported maptable-based applications and semi-structured interviews with identified intended user groups of such applications, and derived Agile user stories. We identified a) principal spatial analyses, b) must-have functionalities, c) required support for individual contributions, and d) preferred space-time settings for group work collaboration, and based on that conceptualized an interactive tool for a maptable. By involving the intended users in the conception of the tool we revealed a discrepancy between the understanding of scholars and developers with respect to what users need and what they do. Intended user groups require tailored but straightforward instruments, rather than complicated or time-consuming models. Our research has laid down the foundation for future maptable tool development to support collaborative planning processes.
The Role of EjSPL3, EjSPL4, EjSPL5, and EjSPL9 in Regulating Flowering in Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.)
Authors: Jiang Yuanyuan , Peng Jiangrong , Wang Man , Su Wenbing , Gan Xiaoqing , Jing Yi , Yang Xianghui , Lin Shunquan , Gao Yongshun
Published: January 2020

The age pathway is important for regulating flower bud initiation in flowering plants. The major regulators in this pathway are miR156 and SPL transcription factors. To date, SPL genes have been identified in many species of plants. Loquat, as a woody fruit tree of Rosaceae, is unique in flowering time as it blooms in winter. However, the study of its SPL homologous genes on the regulation mechanism of flowering time is still limited. In this study, four SPL homologs—EjSPL3, EjSPL4, EjSPL5, and EjSPL9—are cloned from loquat, and phylogenetic analysis showed that they share a high sequence similarity with the homologues from other plants, including a highly conserved SQUAMOSA promoter binding protein (SBP)-box domain. EjSPL3, EjSPL4, EjSPL5 are localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus, and EjSPL9 is localized only in the nucleus. EjSPL4, EjSPL5, and EjSPL9 can significantly activate the promoters of EjSOC1-1, EjLFY-1, and EjAP1-1; overexpression of EjSPL3, EjSPL4, EjSPL5, and EjSPL9 in wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana can promote flowering obviously, and downstream flowering genes expression were upregulated. Our work indicated that the EjSPL3, EjSPL4, EjSPL5, and EjSPL9 transcription factors are speculated to likely participate in flower bud differentiation and other developmental processes in loquat. These findings are helpful to analyze the flowering regulation mechanism of loquat and provide reference for the study of the flowering mechanism of other woody fruit trees.
Cell-to-Cell Communication in Learning and Memory: From Neuro- and Glio-Transmission to Information Exchange Mediated by Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Schiera Gabriella , Di Liegro Carlo Maria , Di Liegro Italia
Published: January 2020

Most aspects of nervous system development and function rely on the continuous crosstalk between neurons and the variegated universe of non-neuronal cells surrounding them. The most extraordinary property of this cellular community is its ability to undergo adaptive modifications in response to environmental cues originating from inside or outside the body. Such ability, known as neuronal plasticity, allows long-lasting modifications of the strength, composition and efficacy of the connections between neurons, which constitutes the biochemical base for learning and memory. Nerve cells communicate with each other through both wiring (synaptic) and volume transmission of signals. It is by now clear that glial cells, and in particular astrocytes, also play critical roles in both modes by releasing different kinds of molecules (e.g., D-serine secreted by astrocytes). On the other hand, neurons produce factors that can regulate the activity of glial cells, including their ability to release regulatory molecules. In the last fifteen years it has been demonstrated that both neurons and glial cells release extracellular vesicles (EVs) of different kinds, both in physiologic and pathological conditions. Here we discuss the possible involvement of EVs in the events underlying learning and memory, in both physiologic and pathological conditions.
Regional Differences in Tight Junction Protein Expression in the Blood–DRG Barrier and Their Alterations after Nerve Traumatic Injury in Rats
Authors: Lux Thomas J. , Hu Xiawei , Ben-Kraiem Adel , Blum Robert , Chen Jeremy Tsung-Chieh , Rittner Heike L.
Published: January 2020

The nervous system is shielded by special barriers. Nerve injury results in blood–nerve barrier breakdown with downregulation of certain tight junction proteins accompanying the painful neuropathic phenotype. The dorsal root ganglion (DRG) consists of a neuron-rich region (NRR, somata of somatosensory and nociceptive neurons) and a fibre-rich region (FRR), and their putative epi-/perineurium (EPN). Here, we analysed blood–DRG barrier (BDB) properties in these physiologically distinct regions in Wistar rats after chronic constriction injury (CCI). Cldn5, Cldn12, and Tjp1 (rats) mRNA were downregulated 1 week after traumatic nerve injury. Claudin-1 immunoreactivity (IR) found in the EPN, claudin-19-IR in the FRR, and ZO-1-IR in FRR-EPN were unaltered after CCI. However, laser-assisted, vessel specific qPCR, and IR studies confirmed a significant loss of claudin-5 in the NRR. The NRR was three-times more permeable compared to the FRR for high and low molecular weight markers. NRR permeability was not further increased 1-week after CCI, but significantly more CD68+ macrophages had migrated into the NRR. In summary, NRR and FRR are different in naïve rats. Short-term traumatic nerve injury leaves the already highly permeable BDB in the NRR unaltered for small and large molecules. Claudin-5 is downregulated in the NRR. This could facilitate macrophage invasion, and thereby neuronal sensitisation and hyperalgesia. Targeting the stabilisation of claudin-5 in microvessels and the BDB barrier could be a future approach for neuropathic pain therapy.
Physiological and Metabolic Effects of Yellow Mangosteen (Garcinia dulcis) Rind in Rats with Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: John Oliver D. , Mouatt Peter , Majzoub Marwan E. , Thomas Torsten , Panchal Sunil K. , Brown Lindsay
Published: January 2020

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of disorders that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. This study has investigated the responses to rind of yellow mangosteen (Garcinia dulcis), usually discarded as waste, in a rat model of human metabolic syndrome. The rind contains higher concentrations of phytochemicals (such as garcinol, morelloflavone and citric acid) than the pulp. Male Wistar rats aged 8–9 weeks were fed either corn starch diet or high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet for 16 weeks, which were supplemented with 5% freeze-dried G. dulcis fruit rind powder during the last 8 weeks. We characterised metabolic, cardiovascular, liver and gut microbiota parameters. High-carbohydrate, high-fat diet-fed rats developed abdominal obesity, hypertension, increased left ventricular diastolic stiffness, decreased glucose tolerance, fatty liver and reduced Bacteroidia with increased Clostridia in the colonic microbiota. G. dulcis fruit rind powder attenuated these changes, improved cardiovascular and liver structure and function, and attenuated changes in colonic microbiota. G. dulcis fruit rind powder may be effective in metabolic syndrome by appetite suppression, inhibition of inflammatory processes and increased fat metabolism, possibly related to changes in the colonic microbiota. Hence, we propose the use of G. dulcis fruit rind as a functional food to ameliorate symptoms of metabolic syndrome.
Detection and Quantification of Extracellular Vesicles via FACS: Membrane Labeling Matters!
Authors: Ender Fanny , Zamzow Piet , von Bubnoff Nikolas , Gieseler Frank
Published: January 2020

The field of extracellular vesicle (EV) research is challenged by the lack of standardized protocols to identify and specifically distinguish between exosomes and ectosomes, which are released via exocytosis or plasma membrane shedding, respectively. Using sequential centrifugation, we separated EV subpopulations from supernatants of COLO 357 pancreas carcinoma cells based on size and mass. After 10,000× g centrifugation, we reconstituted high-speed (hs) EVs from the pellet, directly labeled them with the membrane dye carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE), and performed flow cytometry based analysis. The aim was to optimize the conditions for EV labeling and detection and hence to obtain a maximum yield of intact hsEVs. We found that, for sufficient labeling of EVs, minimal temperature variations and short incubation times correlated with EV stability. Furthermore, threshold adjustment significantly improved the sensitivity of the flow cytometer for the detection of CFSE labeled hsEVs. When cells were CFSE labeled, we observed a transition of fluorescence onto EVs that were reconstituted from the pellet but not onto those that remained in the supernatant after hs centrifugation, suggesting the indirect labeling of EVs based on the way of biogenesis as a specific method for the distinction of exosomes and ectosomes. Protocol standardization is of major importance for the use of EVs as diagnostic markers in liquid biopsies.
N-Butyldeoxygalactonojirimycin Induces Reversible Infertility in Male CD Rats
Authors: Gupta Vijayalaxmi , Hild Sheri A. , Jakkaraj Sudhakar R. , Carlson Erick J. , Wong Henry L. , Allen C. Leigh , Georg Gunda I. , Tash Joseph S.
Published: January 2020

This study shows for the first time that an iminosugar exerts anti-spermiogenic effect, inducing reversible infertility in a species that is not related to C57BL/6 male mice. In CD rats, N-butyldeoxygalactonojirimycin (NB-DGJ) caused reversible infertility at 150 mg/kg/day when administered daily as single oral dose. NB-DGJ inhibited CD rat-derived testicular β-glucosidase 2 (GBA2) activity at 10 µM but did not inhibit CD rat-derived testicular ceramide-specific glucosyltransferase (CGT) at doses up to 1000 µM. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that sufficient plasma levels of NB-DGJ (50 µM) were achieved to inhibit the enzyme. Fertility was blocked after 35 days of treatment and reversed one week after termination of treatment. The rapid return of fertility indicates that the major effect of NB-DGJ may be epididymal rather than testicular. Collectively, our in vitro and in vivo studies in rats suggest that iminosugars should continue to be pursued as potential lead compounds for development of oral, non-hormonal male contraceptives. The study also adds evidence that GBA2, and not CGT, is the major target for the contraceptive effect of iminosugars.
Reduced Levels of Cerebrospinal Fluid/Plasma Aβ40 as an Early Biomarker for Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy in RTg-DI Rats
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyue , Xu Feng , Hoos Michael D. , Lee Hedok , Benveniste Helene , Van Nostrand William E.
Published: January 2020

The accumulation of fibrillar amyloid β-protein (Aβ) in blood vessels of the brain, the condition known as cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), is a common small vessel disease that promotes cognitive impairment and is strongly associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Presently, the clinical diagnosis of this condition relies on neuroimaging markers largely associated with cerebral macro/microbleeds. However, these are markers of late-stage disease detected after extensive cerebral vascular amyloid accumulation has become chronic. Recently, we generated a novel transgenic rat model of CAA (rTg-DI) that recapitulates multiple aspects of human CAA disease with the progressive accumulation of cerebral vascular amyloid, largely composed of Aβ40, and the consistent emergence of subsequent microbleeds. Here, we investigated the levels of Aβ40 in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma of rTg-DI rats as CAA progressed from inception to late stage disease. The levels of Aβ40 in CSF and plasma precipitously dropped at the early onset of CAA accumulation at three months of age and continued to decrease with the progression of disease. Notably, the reduction in CSF/plasma Aβ40 levels preceded the emergence of cerebral microbleeds, which first occurred at about six months of age, as detected by in vivo magnetic resonance imaging and histological staining of brain tissue. These findings support the concept that reduced CSF/plasma levels of Aβ40 could serve as a biomarker for early stage CAA disease prior to the onset of cerebral microbleeds for future therapeutic intervention.
Novel Loss-of-Function Variants in CDC14A are Associated with Recessive Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Iranian and Pakistani Patients
Authors: Doll Julia , Kolb Susanne , Schnapp Linda , Rad Aboulfazl , Rüschendorf Franz , Khan Imran , Adli Abolfazl , Hasanzadeh Atefeh , Liedtke Daniel , Knaup Sabine , Hofrichter Michaela AH , Müller Tobias , Dittrich Marcus , Kong Il-Keun , Kim Hyung-Goo , Haaf Thomas , Vona Barbara
Published: January 2020

CDC14A encodes the Cell Division Cycle 14A protein and has been associated with autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (DFNB32), as well as hearing impairment and infertile male syndrome (HIIMS) since 2016. To date, only nine variants have been associated in patients whose initial symptoms included moderate-to-profound hearing impairment. Exome analysis of Iranian and Pakistani probands who both showed bilateral, sensorineural hearing loss revealed a novel splice site variant (c.1421+2T>C, p.?) that disrupts the splice donor site and a novel frameshift variant (c.1041dup, p.Ser348Glnfs*2) in the gene CDC14A, respectively. To evaluate the pathogenicity of both loss-of-function variants, we analyzed the effects of both variants on the RNA-level. The splice variant was characterized using a minigene assay. Altered expression levels due to the c.1041dup variant were assessed using RT-qPCR. In summary, cDNA analysis confirmed that the c.1421+2T>C variant activates a cryptic splice site, resulting in a truncated transcript (c.1414_1421del, p.Val472Leufs*20) and the c.1041dup variant results in a defective transcript that is likely degraded by nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. The present study functionally characterizes two variants and provides further confirmatory evidence that CDC14A is associated with a rare form of hereditary hearing loss.
The Use of PTI-Marker Genes to Identify Novel Compounds that Establish Induced Resistance in Rice
Authors: De Kesel Jonas , Gómez-Rodríguez Ramsés , Bonneure Eli , Mangelinckx Sven , Kyndt Tina
Published: January 2020

Compounds that establish induced resistance (IR) in plants are promising alternatives for the pesticides that are progressively being banned worldwide. Screening platforms to identify IR-establishing compounds have been developed, but none were specifically designed for monocot plants. Here, we propose the use of an RT-qPCR screening platform, based on conserved immunity marker genes of rice as proxy for IR induction. Central regulators of biotic stress responses of rice were identified with a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), using more than 350 microarray datasets of rice under various sorts of biotic stress. Candidate genes were narrowed down to six immunity marker genes, based on consistent association with pattern-triggered immunity (PTI), both in rice plants as in rice cell suspension cultures (RCSCs). By monitoring the expression of these genes in RCSCs upon treatment with candidate IR-inducing compounds, we showed that our marker genes can predict IR induction in rice. Diproline, a novel IR-establishing compound for monocots that was detected with these marker genes, was shown to induce rice resistance against root-knot nematodes, without fitness costs. Gene expression profiling of the here-described PTI-marker genes can be executed on fully-grown plants or in RCSCs, providing a novel and versatile tool to predict IR induction.
Extended Cleavage Specificities of Two Mast Cell Chymase-Related Proteases and One Granzyme B-Like Protease from the Platypus, a Monotreme
Authors: Fu Zhirong , Akula Srinivas , Thorpe Michael , Hellman Lars
Published: January 2020

Mast cells (MCs) are inflammatory cells primarily found in tissues in close contact with the external environment, such as the skin and the intestinal mucosa. They store large amounts of active components in cytoplasmic granules, ready for rapid release. The major protein content of these granules is proteases, which can account for up to 35 % of the total cellular protein. Depending on their primary cleavage specificity, they can generally be subdivided into chymases and tryptases. Here we present the extended cleavage specificities of two such proteases from the platypus. Both of them show an extended chymotrypsin-like specificity almost identical to other mammalian MC chymases. This suggests that MC chymotryptic enzymes have been conserved, both in structure and extended cleavage specificity, for more than 200 million years, indicating major functions in MC-dependent physiological processes. We have also studied a third closely related protease, originating from the same chymase locus whose cleavage specificity is closely related to the apoptosis-inducing protease from cytotoxic T cells, granzyme B. The presence of both a chymase and granzyme B in all studied mammals indicates that these two proteases bordering the locus are the founding members of this locus.