bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polysaccharide of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (PAMK) Alleviates Cyclophosphamide-induced Immunosuppression in Mice by Upregulating CD28/IP3R/PLCγ-1/AP-1/NFAT Signal Pathway
Authors: Xiang Xuelian , Cao Nan , Chen Feiyue , Qian Long , Wang Yifei , Huang Yunmao , Tian Yunbo , Xu Danning , Li Wanyan
Published: December 2020

The polysaccharide of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (PAMK) is recognized as an immune enhancer, with anti-cancer, anti-tumour, lymphocyte-activating and lymphocytes proliferation-inducing effects. For investigating the mechanism that PAMK alleviates the decline in T cell activation induced by CTX, 24 6-week-old BALB/c female mice were randomly divided into four groups (C, PAMK, CTX, PAMK + CTX). The spleen index, splenocytes morphology and death, cytokine concentration, T cell activating factors (CD25, CD69, CD71), mRNA expression levels related to the CD28 signal pathway were detected. Furthermore, the lymphocytes of mice was isolated and cultured, and then the Th1/Th2 ratio, activating factors, mRNA levels related to the CD28 signal pathway were detected. The results showed that PAMK significantly improved the spleen index, alleviated abnormal splenocytes morphology and death, maintained the balance of Th1/Th2 cells, increased the levels of IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, and increased the mRNA levels of CD28, PLCγ-1, IP3R, NFAT, and AP-1. In conclusion, PAMK increased cytokines levels and alleviated the decline in activation level of lymphocytes induced by CTX through CD28/IP3R/PLCγ-1/AP-1/NFAT signal pathway.
Heart Rate Turbulence Predicts Survival Independently From Severity of Liver Dysfunction in Patients With Cirrhosis
Authors: Oyelade Tope , Canciani Gabriele , Bottaro Matteo , Zaccaria Marta , Formentin Chiara , Moore Kevin , Montagnese Sara , Mani Ali R.
Published: December 2020

Background

Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) is an independent predictor of mortality in patients with cirrhosis. However, conventional HRV indices can only be interpreted in individuals with normal sinus rhythm. In patients with recurrent premature ventricular complexes (PVCs), the predictive capacity of conventional HRV indices is compromised. Heart Rate Turbulence (HRT) represents the biphasic change of the heart rate after PVCs. This study was aimed to define whether HRT parameters could predict mortality in cirrhotic patients.

Materials and Methods

24 h electrocardiogram recordings were collected from 40 cirrhotic patients. Turbulence Onset was calculated as HRT indices. The enrolled patients were followed up for 12 months after the recruitment in relation to survival and/or transplantation.

Results

During the follow-up period, 21 patients (52.5%) survived, 12 patients (30%) died and 7 patients (17.5%) had liver transplantation. Turbulence Onset was found to be strongly linked with mortality on Cox regression (Hazard ratio = 1.351, p < 0.05). Moreover, Turbulence Onset predicted mortality independently of MELD and Child-Pugh’s Score.

Conclusion

This study provides further evidence of autonomic dysfunction in cirrhosis and suggests that HRT is reliable alternative to HRV in patients with PVCs.
Functional Interchangeability of Nucleotide Sugar Transporters URGT1 and URGT2 Reveals That urgt1 and urgt2 Cell Wall Chemotypes Depend on Their Spatio-Temporal Expression
Authors: Celiz-Balboa Jonathan , Largo-Gosens Asier , Parra-Rojas Juan Pablo , Arenas-Morales Verónica , Sepulveda-Orellana Pablo , Salinas-Grenet Hernán , Saez-Aguayo Susana , Orellana Ariel
Published: December 2020

Nucleotide sugar transporters (NSTs) are Golgi-localized proteins that play a role in polysaccharide biosynthesis by transporting substrates (nucleotide sugars) from the cytosol into the Golgi apparatus. In Arabidopsis, there is an NST subfamily of six members, called URGTs, which transport UDP-rhamnose and UDP-galactose in vitro. URGTs are very similar in protein sequences, and among them, URGT1 and URGT2 are highly conserved in protein sequence and also showed very similar kinetic parameters toward UDP-rhamnose and UDP-galactose in vitro. Despite the similarity in sequence and in vitro function, mutants in urgt1 led to a specific reduction in galactose in rosette leaves. In contrast, mutants in urgt2 showed a decrease in rhamnose content in soluble mucilage from seeds. Given these specific and quite different chemotypes, we wonder whether the differences in gene expression could explain the observed differences between the mutants. Toward that end, we analyzed whether URGT2 could rescue the urgt1 phenotype and vice versa by performing a promoter swapping experiment. We analyzed whether the expression of the URGT2 coding sequence, controlled by the URGT1 promoter, could rescue the urgt1 rosette phenotype. A similar strategy was used to determine whether URGT1 could rescue the urgt2 mucilage phenotype. Expression analysis of the swapped genes, using qRT-PCR, was similar to the native URGT1 and URGT2 genes in wild-type plants. To monitor the protein expression of the swapped genes, both URGTs were tagged with green fluorescent protein (GFP). Confocal microscopy analyses of the swapped lines containing URGT2-GFP showed fluorescence in motile dot-like structures in rosette leaves. Swapped lines containing URGT1-GFP showed fluorescence in dot-like structures in the seed coat. Finally, the expression of URGT2 in urgt1 mutants rescued galactose reduction in rosette leaves. In the same manner, the expression of URGT1 in urgt2 mutants recovered the content of rhamnose in soluble mucilage. Hence, our results showed that their expression in different organs modulates the role in vivo of URGT1 and URGT2. Likely, this is due to their presence in different cellular contexts, where other proteins, acting in partnership, may drive their functions toward different pathways.
Isolation of Four Microalgal Strains From the Lake Massaciuccoli: Screening of Common Pollutants Tolerance Pattern and Perspectives for Their Use in Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Chiellini Carolina , Guglielminetti Lorenzo , Sarrocco Sabrina , Ciurli Adriana
Published: December 2020

Aquatic ecosystems represent one of the largest reservoirs of phytoplankton accounting for most of the primary production of the Earth. The Lake Massaciuccoli located in Tuscany (Italy) is one of the largest swamps that in ancient times entirely covered the Versilia coastal plain. Despite its peculiar features, especially the eutrophic characteristics, its native microalgal consortia have never been explored up to now. In this work, we isolated and described four autochthonous microalgal strains from different sites in the lake (FB, Idr, CL_Sc, and CL_Ch); the four microalgal strains were identified within the Chlorella sorokiniana clade. We exposed them to ten of the most common or emerging environmental contaminants in order to describe their preliminary response to the tested substances: five metals (As, Fe, Ni, Cu, and Zn), two herbicides (Metolachlor and Sethoxydim), two antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin and Benzylpenicillin) and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (Ibuprofen). Physiological response of the strains highlighted intraspecific differences; strain CL_Sc was the most tolerant in presence of metals while strain Idr was the most sensitive. All strains were sensitive to sethoxydim and tolerant to metolachlor at all the tested concentrations. Strains FB and Idr were the most sensitive in presence of Ibuprofen while strain CL_Ch was the most sensitive to the highest Benzylpenicillin concentration. Resistance pattern of strain Idr somehow reflects both the phylogenetic and the geographic “isolation” from all other three strains. Finally, optical microscope observation confirmed some differences also in the microalgae morphological aspect. Overall, all the strains showed interesting responses in presence of high concentrations of the tested substances, representing putative interesting candidates for water remediation in wastewater treatment plants.
Priming by Timing: Arabidopsis thaliana Adjusts Its Priming Response to Lepidoptera Eggs to the Time of Larval Hatching
Authors: Valsamakis Georgios , Bittner Norbert , Fatouros Nina E. , Kunze Reinhard , Hilker Monika , Lortzing Vivien
Published: December 2020

Plants can respond to eggs laid by herbivorous insects on their leaves by preparing (priming) their defense against the hatching larvae. Egg-mediated priming of defense is known for several plant species, including Brassicaceae. However, it is unknown yet for how long the eggs need to remain on a plant until a primed defense state is reached, which is ecologically manifested by reduced performance of the hatching larvae. To address this question, we usedArabidopsis thaliana, which carried eggs of the butterflyPieris brassicaefor 1–6 days prior to exposure to larval feeding. Our results show that larvae gained less biomass the longer the eggs had previously been on the plant. The strongest priming effect was obtained when eggs had been on the plant for 5 or 6 days, i.e., for (almost) the entire development time of thePierisembryo inside the egg until larval hatching. Transcript levels of priming-responsive genes, levels of jasmonic acid-isoleucine (JA-Ile), and of the egg-inducible phytoalexin camalexin increased with the egg exposure time. Larval performance studies on mutant plants revealed that camalexin is dispensable for anti-herbivore defense againstP. brassicaelarvae, whereas JA-Ile – in concert with egg-induced salicylic acid (SA) – seems to be important for signaling egg-mediated primed defense. Thus,A. thalianaadjusts the kinetics of its egg-primed response to the time point of larval hatching. Hence, the plant is optimally prepared just in time prior to larval hatching.
What Impacts Early Language Skills? Effects of Social Disparities and Different Process Characteristics of the Home Learning Environment in the First 2 Years
Authors: Attig Manja , Weinert Sabine
Published: December 2020

It is well documented that the language skills of preschool children differ substantially and that these differences are highly predictive of their later academic success and achievements. Especially in the early phases of children’s lives, the importance of different structural and process characteristics of the home learning environment (HLE) has been emphasized and research results have documented that process characteristics such as the quality of parental interaction behavior and the frequency of joint activities vary according to the socio-economic status (SES) of the family. Further, both structural and process characteristics are associated with children’s language development. As most of the studies focus on single indicators or didn’t take the dynamics of parenting behavior across age into account, the present paper aims to investigate the associations of different characteristics of the home learning environment as well as their potentially changing impact on the language skills of 2-year-old children. Using data of 2.272 families of the infant cohort study of the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS), longitudinally assessed process characteristics (sensitivity in the sense of maternal responsivity to the child’s behavior and signals in mother–child interaction; maternal stimulation behavior which goes beyond the child’s actual level of action and development; frequency of joint picture book reading) and structural characteristics (mother’s education, equivalised household income, parental occupational status) were considered. Language skills (vocabulary and grammar) of the children at the age of two were measured by a standardized and validated parent report instrument (child language checklist). Results showed that (1) all three process characteristics of the home learning environment (HLE) are associated with the family’s SES; (2) across three assessment waves nearly all process characteristics predicted children’s vocabulary and grammar skills with some process-specific changes across waves; (3) despite separate direct effects of nearly all HLE-process characteristics in each wave, the amount of explained variance in a joint model including the HLE facets from each wave is hardly higher than in the separate models; and (4) socioeconomic background predicted both language facets of the children in each model even when controlling for the assessed process characteristics of the home learning environment.
Facing Loneliness and Anxiety During the COVID-19 Isolation: The Role of Excessive Social Media Use in a Sample of Italian Adults
Authors: Boursier Valentina , Gioia Francesca , Musetti Alessandro , Schimmenti Adriano
Published: December 2020

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prompted people to face a distressing and unexpected situation. Uncertainty and social distancing changed people's behaviors, impacting on their feelings, daily habits, and social relationships, which are core elements in human well-being. In particular, restrictions due to the quarantine increased feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Within this context, the use of digital technologies has been recommended to relieve stress and anxiety and to decrease loneliness, even though the overall effects of social media consumption during pandemics still need to be carefully addressed. In this regard, social media use evidence risk and opportunities. In fact, according to a compensatory model of Internet-related activities, the online environment may be used to alleviate negative feelings caused by distressing life circumstances, despite potentially leading to negative outcomes. The present study examined whether individuals who were experiencing high levels of loneliness during the forced isolation for COVID-19 pandemic were more prone to feel anxious, and whether their sense of loneliness prompted excessive social media use. Moreover, the potentially mediating effect of excessive social media use in the relationship between perceived loneliness and anxiety was tested. A sample of 715 adults (71.5% women) aged between 18 and 72 years old took part in an online survey during the period of lockdown in Italy. The survey included self-report measures to assess perceived sense of loneliness, excessive use of social media, and anxiety. Participants reported that they spent more hours/day on social media during the pandemic than before the pandemic. We found evidence that perceived feelings of loneliness predicted both excessive social media use and anxiety, with excessive social media use also increasing anxiety levels. These findings suggest that isolation probably reinforced the individuals' sense of loneliness, strengthening the need to be part of virtual communities. However, the facilitated and prolonged access to social media during the COVID-19 pandemic risked to further increase anxiety, generating a vicious cycle that in some cases may require clinical attention.
Probabilistic Reversal Learning Deficits in Patients With Methamphetamine Use Disorder—A Longitudinal Pilot Study
Authors: Pilhatsch Maximilian , Pooseh Shakoor , Junke Alexandra , Kohno Milky , Petzold Johannes , Sauer Cathrin , Smolka Michael N.
Published: December 2020

Methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) is increasing worldwide and commonly associated with learning deficits. Little is known the about underlying trajectories, i.e., how the affected higher-order cognitive functions develop over time and with respect to abstinence and relapse. A probabilistic reversal learning (PRL) paradigm was implemented to uncover the microstructure of impulsive choice and maladaptive learning strategies in 23 patients with MUD in comparison with 24 controls. Baseline data revealed fewer optimal choices and a pattern of altered learning behavior from negative and positive feedback in patients suggesting impairments in flexibly-adapting behavior to changes of reward contingencies. Integrating longitudinal data from a follow-up assessment after 3 months of specific treatment revealed a group-by-time interaction indicating a normalization of these cognitive impairments in patients with MUD. In summary, our study demonstrates behavioral correlates of maladaptive decision-making processes in patients with MUD, which may recover after 3 months of MUD-specific therapy paving the way for further learning-based interventions. Limited by a small sample size, the results of this pilot study warrant replication in larger populations.
Personality Disorder and Physical Health Comorbidities: A Link With Bone Health?
Authors: Williams Lana J. , Quirk Shae E. , Koivumaa-Honkanen Heli , Honkanen Risto , Pasco Julie A. , Stuart Amanda L. , Kavanagh Bianca E. , Heikkinen Jeremi , Berk Michael
Published: December 2020

We examined whether personality disorders (PDs) (any, cluster A/B/C) were associated with bone mineral density (BMD) in a population-based sample of Australian women (n = 696). Personality and mood disorders were assessed using semi-structured diagnostic interviews. BMD was measured at the spine, hip, and total body using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (GE-Lunar Prodigy). Anthropometrics, medication use, physical conditions, and lifestyle factors were documented. The association between PDs (any, cluster A/B/C) and BMD (spine/hip/total body) was examined with multiple linear regression models. The best models were identified by backward elimination including age, weight, physical activity, smoking status, alcohol consumption, dietary calcium intake, mood disorders, physical multimorbidity, socioeconomic status, and medications affecting bone. The variables were retained in the model if p < 0.05. All potential interactions in final models were tested. Those with cluster A PD, compared to those without, had 6.7% lower hip BMD [age, weight adjusted mean 0.853 (95% CI 0.803–0.903) vs. 0.910 (95% CI 0.901–0.919) g/cm2, p = 0.027] and 3.4% lower total body BMD [age, weight, smoking, alcohol, calcium adjusted mean 1.102 (95% CI 1.064–1.140) vs. 1.139 (95% CI 1.128–1.150) g/cm2, p = 0.056]. No associations were observed between cluster B/C PDs and hip/total body BMD or between any of the PD clusters and spine BMD. To our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the bone health of women with PD in a population-based sample. Given the paucity of literature, replication and longitudinal research including the examination of underlying mechanisms and sex differences are warranted.
Applicability of an Active Back-Support Exoskeleton to Carrying Activities
Authors: Poliero Tommaso , Lazzaroni Maria , Toxiri Stefano , Di Natali Christian , Caldwell Darwin G. , Ortiz Jesús
Published: December 2020

Occupational back-support exoskeletons are becoming a more and more common solution to mitigate work-related lower-back pain associated with lifting activities. In addition to lifting, there are many other tasks performed by workers, such as carrying, pushing, and pulling, that might benefit from the use of an exoskeleton. In this work, the impact that carrying has on lower-back loading compared to lifting and the need to select different assistive strategies based on the performed task are presented. This latter need is studied by using a control strategy that commands for constant torques. The results of the experimental campaign conducted on 9 subjects suggest that such a control strategy is beneficial for the back muscles (up to 12% reduction in overall lumbar activity), but constrains the legs (around 10% reduction in hip and knee ranges of motion). Task recognition and the design of specific controllers can be exploited by active and, partially, passive exoskeletons to enhance their versatility, i.e., the ability to adapt to different requirements.
Citizen Science for Quantifying and Reducing Food Loss and Food Waste
Authors: Pateman Rachel M. , de Bruin Annemarieke , Piirsalu Evelin , Reynolds Christian , Stokeld Emilie , West Sarah E.
Published: December 2020

Food loss and food waste are urgent global problems relating to environmental and social challenges including biodiversity loss, climate change, health, and malnutrition. Reduction targets have been set, including Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3, which aims to halve per capita food waste at retail and consumer levels globally by 2030, as well as reduce food losses along production and supply chains. Citizen science, the engagement of members of the public in data collection and other elements of the scientific process, can play a role in tackling the problem of food waste and food loss. In this paper, we scope opportunities for using citizen science to answer 26 priority research questions identified by experts in the field of food waste and food loss as being critical to achieving SDG12.3. We describe how citizen science can be used to quantify and understand causes of food loss and waste. Crucially, we demonstrate the value of citizen science in being not just a data gathering tool but also a method of bringing about change through influencing action, from individual behavior to policy making. Furthermore, we argue the need to bring together all actors in the food system in citizen science projects in order to build shared understanding that will ultimately lead to reduced loss and waste across the food system.
Urethral Lift as a Safe and Effective Procedure for Prostatic Hyplasia Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jing Jibo , Wu Yuqing , Du Mulong , Zhang Nieke , Wang Meiling , Xu Bin , Chen Ming
Published: December 2020

Background: Prostatic urethral lift (PUL) is a relatively new minimally invasive treatment procedure for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In order to analyze the sustainability of this new protocol, a systematic review and meta-analysis is performed based on the published articles.

Methods: We performed a critical review according to the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) and MOOSE guidelines. A total of 818 published articles matched our search terms, and 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data of each follow-up time point (1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months) were analyzed in terms of baseline characteristics and functional and sexual health outcomes. The merged means of each time point were calculated using R package meta and shown in the tendency plot.

Results: A total of 1,443 patients who underwent PUL are available for the research. At 24 months, the changes of the three indicators are statistically significant (IPSS 9.40 points, p < 0.001; Qmax 3.39 ml/s, p < 0.001; QoL 1.99 points, p < 0.001) but were not as effective as TURP (from literature). The trend plot shows that, as time goes on, the effect of PUL tends to increase first and then weaken. Three items fitted a meaningful curve: IPSS (slope = −1.378 t = −12.395, p < 0.001), Qmax (slope = −1.382 t = −6.429, p < 0.001), and QoL (slope = −0.218, t = −10.058, p < 0.001). Fitted curves of SHIM and PVR are not statistically significant. The regression reveals that IPSS, Qmax, and QoL could be predicted after accepting PUL.

Conclusion: PUL appears to be a safe and effective procedure in selected patients with BPH and can improve the symptoms of urinary tract obstruction. However, it is not as effective as TURP and shows no influence to the objective indicators like PVR.
Broomrape as a Major Constraint for Grass Pea (Lathyrus sativus) Production in Mediterranean Rain-Fed Environments
Authors: Rubiales Diego , Barilli Eleonora , Flores Fernando
Published: December 2020

Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus) is an annual legume crop that is currently underutilized but has the potential for reintroduction into Mediterranean rain-fed farming systems. In this study, we compared the adaptation of breeding lines in multi-environment field testing, which had wide variation for precocity, grain yield and broomrape infection. Heritability-adjusted genotype plus genotype-by-environment interaction (HA-GGE) biplot and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) were performed to determine the effect on genotype (G), environment (E) and G × E interaction on grain yield, precocity and broomrape infection. Precocity was associated with reduced broomrape infection, and this with increased grain yield. Step-wise regression analysis revealed that the broomrape infection had the highest influence on grain yield, whereas precocity had a lower effect. Rain and humidity and mild temperatures before and during flowering were the climatic factors most influential on broomrape. Accessions with a shorter growth cycle suffered lower broomrape infection and were more productive in the environments with a high broomrape incidence. Accessions with longer growth cycle suffered overall higher broomrape infection and were therefore more productive in the environments with low or moderate broomrape incidence.
An Ongoing Blended Long-Term Vegetation Health Product for Monitoring Global Food Security
Authors: Yang Wenze , Kogan Felix , Guo Wei
Published: December 2020

Remotely observing global vegetation from space has endured for nearly 50 years. Many datasets have been developed to monitor vegetation status. Tailored to specifically monitor global food security concerning drought and crop yield, a suite of datasets based on vegetation health concepts and Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) observation was developed in the 1980s and utilized throughout the world. Nowadays, satellites based imaging radiometers have evolved into the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) era. With proper algorithm development, the blended version of the data suite, composed of the AVHRR dataset from 1981 to 2012 and VIIRS dataset from 2013 and afterwards, has bridged the long-term AVHRR observation and high-quality VIIRS data. This paper explains the blended version of the data suite.
Trace Element Levels in Serum Are Potentially Valuable Diagnostic Markers in Dogs
Authors: Cedeño Yolanda , Miranda Marta , Orjales Inmaculada , Herrero-Latorre Carlos , Suárez Maruska , Luna Diego , López-Alonso Marta
Published: December 2020

The objective of this study was to obtain information about the role of trace element imbalance in the pathogenesis of certain diseases in dogs and to evaluate the suitability of trace element profiling as an additional tool in the diagnosis. Serum trace element concentrations (copper, molybdenum, selenium and zinc) were measured in a cohort of healthy (control) dogs (n = 42) and dogs affected by hepatic (n = 25), gastrointestinal (n = 24), inflammatory/infection (n = 24), and renal (n = 22) diseases. These data were analyzed together with data on basic biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, albumin, globulin, and glucose) by using chemometric techniques. The chemometric analysis revealed distinctive association patterns between trace elements and biochemical parameters for each clinical disorders. The findings provide clear evidence for the important role of trace elements in disease, particularly in relation to acute phase reactions, with serum copper providing an indirect measurement of ceruloplasmin (positive acute-phase protein) and serum selenium and zinc acting as negative acute phase reactants. Molybdenum may also be a suitable marker of incipient renal disease. Thus, the analysis of trace element profiles, by multielement techniques, in a single serum sample would be a valuable additional tool for the diagnosis of certain diseases.
Age-Related Changes in the Behaviour of Domestic Horses as Reported by Owners
Authors: Burattini Bibiana , Fenner Kate , Anzulewicz Ashley , Romness Nicole , McKenzie Jessica , Wilson Bethany , McGreevy Paul
Published: December 2020

The broad traits of boldness and independence in domestic horses can affect their usefulness and, indirectly, their welfare. The objective of the current study was to explore associations between attributes that reflect equine boldness and independence with both the age of horses and the age at which they were started under saddle, as well as other variables including breed, colour and primary equestrian discipline. All data were sourced from responses (n = 1940) to the 97-question online Equine Behaviour Assessment and Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ). Twenty E-BARQ items from the dataset were selected to reflect boldness and independence and were tested for univariate significance at p < 0.2. Multivariable modelling of the effect of age on remaining traits was assessed by an ordinal logistic regression, using a cumulative log odds model. This revealed that older horses were bolder (p = 0.012). However, horses started under saddle at an older age were less bold and less independent (p = 0.040 and p = 0.010, respectively). Australian Stock Horses were bolder and more independent (p = 0.014 and p = 0.007, respectively) than crossbreed horses. Horses used for breeding conformation (p = 0.039), working equitation (p = 0.045), eventing (p = 0.044) and traditional working horses (p = 0.034) were bolder than those used for other disciplines. Dressage (p = 0.039) and therapy (p = 0.040) horses were less bold than horses used for other disciplines. Stallions were bolder (p = −0.034) than geldings. Brown (p = 0.049) and chestnut (p = 0.027) horses were less bold than bay horses. Compared to crossbreed horses, Thoroughbreds (p = 0.000) and companion horses (p = 0.017) were less bold whilst heavy horses (p = 0.029) and ponies (p = 0.044) were bolder. Compared to pleasure horses, mounted games horses (p = 0.033) were less independent whereas working equitation horses (p = 0.020) were more independent. Riders with more than eight years’ experience reported more independence in their horses (p = 0.015) than those who had ridden their whole lives. The study findings suggest that boldness and independence are separate traits and only boldness was associated with the age of the horse. Factors that relate to desirable boldness and independence are important in ridden horses because they can affect rider safety. Results from this study should improve horse–rider matching and thereby potentially enhance horse welfare.
Erratum: Zhao, J.; Shen, X.; Cao, X.; He, H.; Han, S.; Chen, Y.; Cui, C.; Wei, Y.; Wang, Y.; Li, D.; Zhu, Q.; Yin, H. HDAC4 Regulates the Proliferation, Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chicken Skeletal Muscle Satellite Cells. Animals 2020, 10, 84
Authors: Zhao Jing , Shen Xiaoxu , Cao Xinao , He Haorong , Han Shunshun , Chen Yuqi , Cui Can , Wei Yuanhang , Wang Yan , Li Diyan , Zhu Qing , Yin Huadong
Published: December 2020

The authors wish to make the following corrections to their paper [...]
Porcine Circovirus Type 3 in Pig Farms Experiencing Diarrhea in Jiangxi, China: Prevalence, Genome Sequence and Pathogenicity
Authors: Zhang Fanfan , Yuan Weifeng , Li Zhiquan , Zhang Yuhan , Zeng Xiuxiu , Zhao Min , Ye Yu , Ding Zhen , He Houjun , Wu Qiong , Song Deping , Tang Yuxin
Published: December 2020

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) infections have been reported in different clinical presentations. However, the prevalence and pathogenicity of PCV3 associated with diarrhea in piglets have been limited. Herein, we present an investigation and genome analyses of PCV3 in piglets experiencing diarrhea, and observed clinical signs, gross lesions, and histological changes in pigs negative for all known pathogens associated with diarrhea but positive for PCV3 alone. Among the feces (n = 141) tested, 16.31% (23/141) were positive for PCV3. Of which, 27.28% (15/55) and 14.29% (5/35) were present in diarrheal samples from suckling and weaned piglets, respectively. Moderate to severe atrophic villi was confined in duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, and significantly decreased average heights of villi, and the depths of crypt were observed in PCV3-infected piglets. The complete genome of a representative strain of PCV3, designated as JX/CH/2018, was determined. Multialignment analysis indicated that JX/CH/2018 had 97.7–99.7% nucleotide identity at the complete genome level, and 97.2–100% at the amino acid level of the capsid protein when compared with reference PCV3 strains. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the PCV3 strain identified in this study belonged to PCV3a lineage. The present study demonstrated that PCV3 is a common virus in diarrheal suckling and weaned piglets.
Attempt to Isolate Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) Using a Continuous Cell Culture System
Authors: Photichai Kornravee , Guntawang Thunyamas , Sittisak Tidaratt , Kochagul Varankpicha , Chuammitri Phongsakorn , Thitaram Chatchote , Thananchai Hathairat , Chewonarin Teera , Sringarm Korawan , Pringproa Kidsadagon
Published: December 2020

Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) infection is known to cause acute fatal hemorrhagic disease, which has killed many young Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). Until recently, in vitro isolation and propagation of the virus have not been successful. This study aimed to isolate and propagate EEHV using continuous cell lines derived from human and/or animal origins. Human cell lines, including EA. hy926, A549, U937, RKO, SW620, HCT-116 and HT-29, and animal cell lines, including CT26.CL25 and sp2/0-Ag14, were investigated in this study. Mixed frozen tissue samples of the heart, lung, liver, spleen and kidney obtained from fatal EEHV1A- or EEHV4-infected cases were homogenized and used for cell inoculation. At 6, 24, 48 and 72 h post infection (hpi), EEHV-inoculated cells were observed for cytopathic effects (CPEs) or were assessed for EEHV infection by immunoperoxidase monolayer assay (IPMA) or quantitative PCR. The results were then compared to those of the mock-infected controls. Replication of EEHV in the tested cells was further determined by immunohistochemistry of cell pellets using anti-EEHV DNA polymerase antibodies or re-inoculated cells with supernatants obtained from passages 2 or 3 of the culture medium. The results reveal that no CPEs were observed in the tested cells, while immunolabeling for EEHV gB was observed in only U937 human myeloid leukemia cells. However, quantitation values of the EEHV terminase gene, as well as those of the EEHV gB or EEHV DNA polymerase proteins in U937 cells, gradually declined from passage 1 to passage 3. The findings of this study indicate that despite poor adaptation in U937 cells, this cell line displays promise and potential to be used for the isolation of EEHV1 and EEHV4 in vitro.
Methodology Aspects of Colony Maintain for a Murine Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) TDP-43 Proteinopathy
Authors: Álvaro-Alonso César , Ferrer-Donato Águeda , Fernández-Torres Elizabeth , Carballo-Villa Mónica , Fernandez-Martos Carmen M.
Published: December 2020

The use of genetically engineered mouse (GEMs) models provides an unprecedented opportunity to study the genetic basis of diseases and gene function, therefore it is paramount to determine reproductive parameters that guarantee proper colony maintenance. We studied the reproductive parameters of mice hemizygous for TDP-43A315T transgene, which are viable, fertile, and express a mutant human TAR DNA binding protein (hTDP-43) cDNA harboring an amino acid substitution associated with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS). TDP43A315T mice were backcrossed to a C57Bl6/J pure background for four consecutive generations. The Tg offspring genotype were then confirmed by PCR assays. Our statistical analysis indicated there were no differences in the sex and number of pups per offspring when hemizygous female and male TDP43A315T mice were backcrossed to C57Bl6/J mice. Interestingly, our results showed significant differences in the number of offspring expressing the transgene when hemizygous TDP43A315T male mice were used as breeders. Therefore, our findings suggest that male TDP43A315T mice transfer the transgene with a greater genetic strengths. Such is an important breeding consideration to ensure the principle of reduction in animal experimentation considering most basic research with models focuses on males and excludes female mice.
Leptin System in Obese Dog Skin: A Pilot Study
Authors: Maranesi Margherita , Di Loria Antonio , Dall’Aglio Cecilia , Piantedosi Diego , Lepri Elvio , Ciaramella Paolo , Mercati Francesca
Published: December 2020

Obesity predisposes to several health problems including skin diseases. However, information on the relationship between obesity and skin disorders in pets is very scarce. Leptin (LEP) is mainly produced by adipose tissue and has a prominent role in skin biology. This study evaluated the LEP system in the skin of obese dogs compared to normal-weight animals. The investigation was carried out on 10 obese (Obese group) and 10 normal-weight (Normal-weight group) dogs through Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. Cells of skin associated immune system were also evaluated. No differences were evidenced between the two groups as well as skin inflammation. LEP differences were no significant, while LEPR transcript appeared 10-fold higher in obesedogs than in normal-weight ones. Immunostaining for both molecules was observed in several skin structures such as the epidermis, hair follicles, and glands. No differences appeared in the skin associated immune system composition. This study is a preliminary report showing that LEP system changes in obese dog skin. The increased LEPR expression observed in the obese group suggests that the receptor plays a modulating role in the system control. However, the exact role of LEPin the skin under obesity conditions needs further elucidation.
IgE in the Pathogenesis of SLE: From Pathogenic Role to Therapeutic Target
Authors: Lamri Yasmine , Charles Nicolas
Published: December 2020

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multifactorial chronic autoimmune disease, marked by the presence of autoantibodies to nuclear antigens belonging to different isotype classes. For several years, IgE antibodies have been incriminated in the development of allergic diseases and parasitic infections and different anti-IgE therapies have been developed to encounter the pathogenic role of IgE in these pathologies. Recently, multiple studies showed the presence of elevated total IgE levels and demonstrated a pathogenic role of autoreactive IgE in SLE. This review aims to summarize the findings incriminating IgE and autoreactive IgE in the pathophysiology of SLE, to describe their functional outcomes on their targeted cells as well as to discuss different IgE-related therapeutic modalities that emerged and that may be beneficial for SLE patient care.
The Short Lipopeptides (C10)2-KKKK-NH2 and (C12)2-KKKK-NH2 Protect HaCaT Keratinocytes from Bacterial Damage Caused by Staphylococcus aureus Infection in a Co-Culture Model
Authors: Reddersen Kirsten , Greber Katarzyna E. , Korona-Glowniak Izabela , Wiegand Cornelia
Published: December 2020

The search for new antimicrobial strategies is of major importance since there is a growing resistance of both bacteria and fungi to existing antimicrobials. Lipopeptides are promising and potent antimicrobial compounds. For translation into clinically useful molecules, effectiveness of peptide treatment against human infections must be proved in complex in vitro wound models. The aim of this study was to examine if the synthesized short lipopeptides (C10)2-KKKK-NH2 and (C12)2-KKKK-NH2 can protect HaCaT keratinocytes from bacterial damage caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection in a coculture model. After 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h incubation, cellular ATP level and release of the cytotoxicity marker LDH as well as the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and interleukin-1α were measured. Infection of the keratinocytes resulted in strong bacterial damage of HaCaT cells along with low cellular ATP levels and high release of LDH, IL-6, and IL-1α after 24 h and 48 h. Incubation of the infected human keratinocytes with (C10)2-KKKK-NH2 and (C12)2-KKKK-NH2 resulted in protection of the keratinocytes from bacterial damage caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection with ATP, LDH, IL-6, and IL-1α levels comparable to the untreated control. Hence, both synthesized lipopeptides are promising candidates with high therapeutic potential in dermatology for the treatment of topical infections.
Vascular Cells Proteome Associated with Bradykinin and Leptin Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Signals
Authors: Hariri Moustafa Al , Jaffa Miran A. , Saoud Richard , Zhao Jingfu , Zhu Rui , Jaffa Aneese A. , El-Achkar Ghewa A. , Moussa Mayssam , Kobeissy Firas , Hassan Anwarul , Ziyadeh Fuad N. , Mechref Yehia , Jaffa Ayad A.
Published: December 2020

Among the primary contributors to cardiovascular diseases are inflammation and oxidative imbalance within the vessel walls as well as the fibrosis of rat aortic smooth muscle cell (RASMC). Bradykinin (BK) and leptin are inflammatory modulators that are linked to vascular injury. In this study, we employed tandem LC-MS/MS to identify protein signatures that encompass protein abundance in RASMC treated with BK or leptin followed by systems biology analyses to gain insight into the biological pathways and processes linked to vascular remodeling. In the study, 1837 proteins were identified in control untreated RASMC. BK altered the expression of 72 (4%) and 120 (6.5%) proteins, whereas leptin altered the expression of 189 (10.2%) and 127 (6.5%) proteins after 24 and 48 h, respectively, compared to control RASMC. BK increased the protein abundance of leptin receptor, transforming growth factor-β. On the other hand, leptin increased the protein abundance of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 but decreased the protein abundance of cofilin. BK and leptin induced the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and pathway analysis revealed the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and AKT pathways. The proteome profile in response to BK and leptin revealed mechanistic interplay of multiple processes that modulate inflammation and oxidative stress signals in the vasculature.
Iris Melanoma: Management and Prognosis
Authors: Russo Andrea , Avitabile Teresio , Reibaldi Michele , Bonfiglio Vincenza , Pignatelli Francesco , Fallico Matteo , Caltabiano Rosario , Broggi Giuseppe , Russo Daniela , Varricchio Silvia , Spatola Corrado , Basile Antonio , Liardo Rocco Luca Emanuele , Milazzotto Roberto , Arena Floriana , Foti Pietro Valerio , Longo Antonio
Published: December 2020

Iris melanomas represent 2–5% of uveal melanomas. Iris melanomas vary in their size, shape, degree of pigmentation and clinical behavior. The main local clinical complications of iris melanomas are tumor vascularization, ectropion uvea, pupillary distortion, pigment dispersion, sector cataract, chronic uveitis, hyphema and glaucoma with irreversible optic nerve damage. The most effective treatment for iris nevus and melanoma remains debatable; treatment modalities have been proposed depending on the local status as well as the age and general condition of the patient. A melanocytic iris nevus is usually observed until documented progression is identified. In this case, radiotherapy or surgical resection is generally performed. Cataract, glaucoma and limbal stem cell deficiency are usually secondary to radiotherapy, while incomplete tumor excisions, which could lead to recurrence, hemorrhage, vitreous loss, dislocated lens, iridocyclitis, macular edema, retinal detachment, glaucoma and cataract, are related to surgical resection. In some cases, a combination of radiotherapy and surgery is used. Conservative treatment is an efficient alternative to enucleation and allows good local tumor control.
Protein Engineering of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) 8Sα Globulin with Lactostatin
Authors: Gamis Ma. Carla , Uy Lawrence Yves , Laurena Antonio , Hurtada Wilma , Torio Mary Ann
Published: December 2020

Mung bean is a well-known good source of protein. To increase its bioactivity, economic value, and nutritional content as a functional food and food additive, lactostatin (IIAEK), a cholesterol-lowering bioactive peptide, was engineered into mung bean 8Sα globulin, a major storage protein. The results showed that the mutated 8Sα globulin has a significant bile acid binding capacity (cholesterol-lowering activity) up to 47.25%. Moreover, superimposed mutant (Mut2) and wild-type (Wt) 3D protein structures showed a 93–97% identity, indicating that the mutant proteins are stable. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography(UPLC)-based assay showed similar retention time for wild-type and mutant protein samples. Both IIAEK peptide standard and Mut2 digest had comparable baseline peaks corresponding to the same molecular size based on the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) data. A 573.36-Da mass spectrum was seen in Mut2, which indicates that Mut2 8Sα globulin has been successfully mutated and digested to release the bioactive peptide, IIAEK. In vitro bile acid binding capacity showed that the 6-h Wt and 12-h engineered protein (Mut2) digests had the highest activity. Lastly, potential allergenicity was checked in the Allergen Database for Food Safety (ADFS) and the AllerBase database, and the IIAEK peptide matched the Bos d 5 epitopes. This study provides a strong foundation and basis for mung bean nutrition improvement, development of cholesterol-lowering food supplements, and protein engineering of other food proteins.
Application of Thermal Methods to Analyze the Properties of Coffee Silverskin and Oil Extracted from the Studied Roasting By-Product
Authors: Górska Agata , Brzezińska Rita , Wirkowska-Wojdyła Magdalena , Bryś Joanna , Domian Ewa , Ostrowska-Ligęza Ewa
Published: December 2020

The aim of the study was to characterize the thermal properties of coffee silverskin and fat extracted from the material by using differential scanning calorimetry, modulated differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry/derivative thermogravimetry. Additionally, the thermokinetic parameters, oxidative stability and fatty acid composition of the extracted oil were defined. Thermal decomposition of the studied coffee roasting by-product under oxygen occurred in three defined stages. The most significant changes in weight were observed in the region of 200–500 °C and correspond to polysaccharide decomposition. These results are in agreement with the data obtained from the differential scanning calorimetry curve. On the curve course of silverskin, two main exothermic peaks can be observed with a maximum at 265 and 340 °C. These exothermic events represent the transitions of hemicellulose and cellulose. Fat extracted from silverskin turned out to be a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids with the recommended n-6 to n-3 ratio reaching the value 4:1. The studied fat was characterized by low oxidative stability. Considering the obtained results, it can be stated that thermal analysis can provide fast and reliable data concerning the composition and properties of coffee silverskin and coffee silverskin oil.
A Deep Learning and Computer Vision Based Multi-Player Tracker for Squash
Authors: Baclig Maria Martine , Ergezinger Noah , Mei Qipei , Gül Mustafa , Adeeb Samer , Westover Lindsey
Published: December 2020

Sports pose a unique challenge for high-speed, unobtrusive, uninterrupted motion tracking due to speed of movement and player occlusion, especially in the fast and competitive sport of squash. The objective of this study is to use video tracking techniques to quantify kinematics in elite-level squash. With the increasing availability and quality of elite tournament matches filmed for entertainment purposes, a new methodology of multi-player tracking for squash that only requires broadcast video as an input is proposed. This paper introduces and evaluates a markerless motion capture technique using an autonomous deep learning based human pose estimation algorithm and computer vision to detect and identify players. Inverse perspective mapping is utilized to convert pixel coordinates to court coordinates and distance traveled, court position, ‘T’ dominance, and average speeds of elite players in squash is determined. The method was validated using results from a previous study using manual tracking where the proposed method (filtered coordinates) displayed an average absolute percent error to the manual approach of 3.73% in total distance traveled, 3.52% and 1.26% in average speeds <9 m/s with and without speeds <1 m/s, respectively. The method has proven to be the most effective in collecting kinematic data of elite players in squash in a timely manner with no special camera setup and limited manual intervention.