bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality evaluation of different varieties of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. peels based on phenolic profiles, bioactivity, and HPLC fingerprint
Authors: Yu Li , Wu Wenli , Pan Yiying , Wang Wei , Sun Leiwen , Liu Yi , Wang Dongmei , Li Dengwu
Published: March 2020

This work aims to evaluate the quality of seven varieties of Zanthoxylum bungeanum peels based on phenolic compounds, bioactivity, and HPLC fingerprint combined with chemometrics analysis, and pick out the key chemical compounds. As a result, S2 (Fengxian Dahongpao) showed the highest content of total phenolic and rutin, as well as the strongest antioxidant activity, followed by S6 (Hancheng Shizitou). From HPLC fingerprint, eight common characteristic peaks were selected and proved to be effective in controlling the quality of Z. bungeanum peels with the total contribution of 92.775%. The similarity values of each sample ranged between 0.696 and 0.970. In addition, hyperoside was identified as another key chemical indicator for quality evaluation of Z. bungeanum peels by PCA. Accordingly, seven varieties of Z. bungeanum were classified into four groups, among which group 4 (Fengxian Dahongpao, S2) was considered as an outstanding variety, followed by group 1 (S5, S6, and S7) and group 3 (S3 and S4), and group 2 (Fugu late‐maturing, S1) was the last one. These results will be helpful to establish an effective and comprehensive evaluation system of Z. bungeanum.

Practical Application

This study not only provides another index for quality evaluation of Z. bungeanum peels, but it also expects to be a theoretical basis for high‐quality germplasm cultivation and the development of Z. bungeanum peels as food additives, pharmaceutical, or health care products.
Long non‐coding RNA SNHG6 promotes the growth and invasion of non‐small cell lung cancer by downregulating miR‐101‐3p
Authors: Li Ke , Jiang Yongxin , Xiang Xudong , Gong Quan , Zhou Chunyan , Zhang Lijuan , Ma Qianli , Zhuang Li
Published: March 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the function of long non‐coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

The association of SNHG6 or miR‐101‐3p with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis in patents with NSCLC was assessed by TCGA dataset. Cell proliferation and invasion were evaluated by MTT and Transwell assays and SNHG6‐specific binding with miR‐101‐3p was verified by bioinformatic analysis, luciferase gene report and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. qRT‐PCR and Western blot was used to assess the effects of SNHG6 on the expression of miR‐101‐3p and chromodomain Y like (CDYL) in NSCLC cells. A xenograft tumor model in vivo was established to observe the effects of SNHG6 knockdown on tumor growth.

Results

We found that increased expression of SNHG6 was associated with pathological stage and lymph node infiltration, and acted as an independent prognostic factor of tumor recurrence in patients with NSCLC. Silencing SNHG6 expression repressed cell growth and invasion in vitro and in vivo, but overexpression of SNHG6 reversed these effects. Furthermore, SNHG6 was identified to act as a sponge of miR‐101‐3p, which could reduce cell proliferation and attenuate SNHG6‐induced CDYL expression. Low expression of miR‐101‐3p or high expression of CDYL was related to poor survival in patients with NSCLC.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrated that lncRNA SNHG6 contributed to the proliferation and invasion of NSCLC by downregulating miR‐101‐3p.
Effects of simple active referrals of different intensities on smoking abstinence and smoking cessation services attendance: a cluster‐randomized clinical trial
Authors: Weng Xue , Luk Tzu Tsun , Suen Yi Nam , Wu Yongda , Li Ho Cheung William , Cheung Yee Tak Derek , Kwong Antonio Cho Sshing , Lai Vienna Wai Yin , Chan Sophia Siu Chee , Lam Tai‐Hing , Wang Man Ping
Published: March 2020

Background and aims

Proactive brief cessation advice by a lay counsellor combined with a referral to a smoking cessation service (active referral) is effective in increasing service use and quitting in community smokers. We compared the effect of two modified approaches to referrals on the cessation outcomes in community smokers.

Design

Three‐arm cluster‐randomized trial.

Setting

General community in Hong Kong.

Participants

Daily cigarette smokers (n = 1163; 77.7% male).

Interventions

Participants were randomized to receive on‐site active referral (OSR, n = 395), where lay counsellors helped participants make appointments with a smoking cessation service of their choice plus tailored reminders; mobile text messaging referral (TMR, n = 385), where participants were encouraged to use a smoking cessation service via text messages; or brief cessation advice only (control, n = 383).

Measurements

The primary outcome was a self‐reported 7‐day point‐prevalence abstinence at 6 months post‐treatment initiation. Secondary outcomes included 7‐day point‐prevalence abstinence at 3 and 18 months, biochemically validated abstinence, smoking reduction and the use of cessation services at 3, 6 and 18 months.

Findings

Using intention‐to‐treat analysis, the OSR (17.7%) and TMR (17.1%) groups had significantly higher self‐reported abstinence than the control (12.0%) group at 6 months [odds ratio (OR) for OSR versus control = 1.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06–2.36; OR for TMR versus control = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.01–2.28; both P < 0.05]. The corresponding validated abstinence rates at 6 months were 7.6, 7.8 and 3.9% (OR for TMR versus control = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.07–3.81; OR for TMR versus control = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.10–3.92; both P < 0.05). Self‐reported and validated abstinence were similar at 18 months. OSR groups had higher rates of smoking cessation service use than the control group at all follow‐ups (all P < 0.001). The smoking reduction rates were similar in continuing smokers.

Conclusions

Simple active referrals (in person or via text messaging) to smoking cessation services increased abstinence rates among smokers in Hong Kong compared with general brief cessation advice. On‐site active referral increased the use of smoking cessation services compared with general brief cessation advice.
From ‘neurotic’ to ‘managing’ mother: The ‘medical career’ experienced by mothers of a child diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Waite‐Jones Jennifer M. , Swallow Veronica , Madill Anna
Published: March 2020

Objective

Despite increased research into how caring for a child diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) affects mothers, more needs to be known about ways in which such experiences transform their lives. Insight into the experiences of such mothers was sought through analysis of interviews with eight mothers and one father caring for a child with JIA.

Design

The study is situated within a larger project involving families with a child with JIA. A social constructionist approach was adopted and grounded theory including a ‘negative case,’ guided gathering and analysing data. Individual, semi‐structured interviews were conducted based on the research question: ‘What is it like to be the mother of a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis?’

Results

Findings suggest that mothers find difficulty living up to the ‘ideal mother’ expected within Western society when forced to provide competing demands of age‐related, yet illness‐relevant care. The unpredictable nature of JIA means mothers face a lack of understanding from professionals so become hyper‐vigilant, ‘battling’ on behalf of their ill child. A self‐perpetuating loop develops if this is misperceived as being overprotective, leaving mothers vulnerable to being judged ‘neurotic’. However, with experience, often at an emotional cost, such mothers’ confidence in managing the competing demands of caring for their ill child increases such they can navigate a positive journey from ‘neurotic’ to ‘managing’ mother.

Conclusions

Understanding this process could help health care professionals reduce stressful experiences faced by mothers when caring for a chronically ill child.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Mothers of chronically ill children are often diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Such mothers will have taken over managing their child's condition, and this can include negative experiences within the health care system. Qualitative methods enable deeper understanding of the experiences of mothers of chronically ill children.

What does the study add?

Potentially gendered position of mothers of children with chronic conditions.

Taken for granted assumptions implicitly underpin interactions between mothers and some professionals.

Greater partnership between mothers and professionals ultimately improves the care of the ill child.
How often are outcomes other than change in substance use measured? A systematic review of outcome measures in contemporary randomised controlled trials
Authors: Bjornestad Jone , McKay James R. , Berg Henrik , Moltu Christian , Nesvåg Sverre
Published: March 2020

Issues

Recovery is a theoretical construct and empirical object of inquiry. The aim was to review whether outcome measures used in randomised controlled trials of drug treatment reflect a comprehensive conceptualisation of recovery.

Approach

Systematic review using the following databases: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effect, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO. Search returned 6556 original articles and 504 met the following inclusion criteria: randomised controlled trial in English‐language peer‐reviewed journal; sample meets criteria for drug dependence or drug use disorder; reports non‐substance use treatment outcomes. Review protocol registration: PROSPERO (CRD42018090064).

Key Findings

3.8% of the included studies had a follow up of 2 years or more. Withdrawal/craving was present in 31.1% of short‐term versus 0% of long‐term studies. Social functioning in 8% of short‐term versus 36.8% of long‐term studies. Role functioning (0.9 vs. 26.3%), risk behaviour (15.6 vs. 36.8%) and criminality (3.8 vs. 21.1%) followed a similar pattern. Housing was not examined short‐term and unregularly long‐term (2.0%). ‘Use of health‐care facilities’, clinical psychological, behavioural factors were frequently reported. Physiological or somatic health (15.2 vs. 10.5%), motivation (14.2 vs. 15.8%) and quality of life (7.1 vs. 0%) were less frequently reported.

Conclusion

The short time interval of the follow up and lack of information on relevant factors in recovery prevents the development of evidence‐based approaches to improve these factors. Particularly, measures of social and role functioning should be added to reflect an adequate conceptualisation of recovery.
Interaction of Bacillus subtilis GabR with the gabTD promoter: role of repeated sequences and effect of GABA in transcriptional activation
Authors: Nardella Caterina , Barile Anna , di Salvo Martino L. , Milano Teresa , Pascarella Stefano , Tramonti Angela , Contestabile Roberto
Published: March 2020

Bacillus subtilis is able to use γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) found in the soil as carbon and nitrogen source, through the action of GABA aminotransferase (GabT) and succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase (GabD). GABA acts as molecular effector in the transcriptional activation of the gabTD operon by GabR. GabR is the most studied member of the MocR family of prokaryotic pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP)‐dependent transcriptional regulators, yet crucial aspects of its mechanism of action are unknown. GabR binds to the gabTD promoter, but transcription is activated only when GABA is present. Here, we demonstrated, in contrast with what had been previously proposed, that three repeated nucleotide sequences in the promoter region, two direct repeats and one inverted repeat, are specifically recognized by GabR. We carried out in vitro and in vivo experiments using mutant forms of the gabTD promoter. Our results showed that GABA activates transcription by changing the modality of interaction between GabR and the recognized sequence repeats. A hypothetical model is proposed in which GabR exists in two alternative conformations that, respectively, prevent or promote transcription. According to this model, in the absence of GABA, GabR binds to DNA interacting with all three sequence repeats, overlapping the RNA polymerase binding site and therefore preventing transcription activation. On the other hand, when GABA binds to GabR, a conformational change of the protein leads to the release of the interaction with the inverted repeat, allowing transcription initiation by RNA polymerase.
Association between 5‐hydroxytryptamine gene polymorphism rs140700 and primary insomnia in Chinese population
Authors: Hui Peilin , Yang Jun , Wang Jing , Zhao Lijun , Wang Xubin , Su Xiaoyan , Wang Jinfeng , Ma Wei , Fan Jie , Chen Wenjuan , Zhao Yuan , Guo Bin , Liu Yu , Zhang Shangli , Zheng Ning , Zhou Liyan , Xie Yuping
Published: March 2020

Background

Primary insomnia is a worldwide problem and it has a considerable negative impact on one's physical and mental health. Studies have shown that non‐synonymous Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in 5‐hydroxytryptamine (serotonin or 5‐HT) are related to primary insomnia. Previous studies have shown that 5‐HT polymorphism (rs140700) is related to depression, and insomnia is often accompanied by depression and anxiety. The relationship between this site and primary insomnia is unknown. We speculated that this site may be related to primary insomnia, so we investigated the relationship between rs140700 and primary insomnia.

Aims

To explore the relationship between the 5‐HT gene polymorphism rs140700 and primary insomnia.

Methods

In this study, we included 57 patients with primary insomnia and 54 age‐ and gender‐matched normal controls. The subjects who belonged to the Chinese population were subjected to polysomnography for three consecutive nights. Their sleep quality was assessed, and the genotypes of the 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) gene polymorphism rs140700 were determined by the flight mass spectrometry.

Results

The genotype distributions of the 5‐HT gene polymorphism rs140700 were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in both patients and controls (P > 0.05). The allele and genotype distributions of this variant were comparable between the patients and controls in all subjects and between genders (all P > 0.05). The influence of rs140700 on percentage of stage 1 (P = 0.015) change and arousal index (P = 0.028) of primary insomnia was statistically significant. The logistic multi‐factor regression analysis results revealed that 5‐HT gene polymorphism rs140700 was not a risk factor for primary insomnia in the Chinese population (P = 0.589).

Conclusions

The 5‐HT gene polymorphism rs140700 may not be a susceptibility locus for primary insomnia in the Chinese population.
Pro‐environmental health behaviour and educational needs among pregnant women: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Jeong Geum Hee , Kim Hyun Kyoung
Published: March 2020

Aim

To investigate pro‐environmental health perceptions, behaviour and educational needs among pregnant women in Korea.

Background

Based on concerns about the effects of environmental hazards and pollution on their babies and themselves, pregnant women behave in ways that protect their health. The framework of this study was based on Rogers' protection motivation theory.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey using questionnaires.

Method

The sample comprised 358 pregnant women recruited from July – August 2018 in South Korea. Participants were recruited from prenatal classes at two healthcare centres and patients receiving prenatal check‐ups at two women's hospitals.

Results

Perceived educational needs were ranked in the following order: particulate matter (23.7%), electromagnetic waves (11.7%), instant food (food additives) (9.0%) and environmental hormones (8.3%). Age (β = 0.17, p = .001), perceived severity (β = 0.19, p = .001) and response efficacy (β = 0.28, p < .001) affected pro‐environmental behaviour, which explained 23.0% of the variance.

Conclusion

Educational programs are necessary for mitigating environmental risks during pregnancy. Pregnant women engage in pro‐environmental behaviour influenced by pro‐environmental perceptions, especially perceptions of severity regarding environmental diseases and the efficacy of health behavioural responses. Nursing professionals can use these results to promote pro‐environmental health in pregnant women.

Impact

This study demonstrated that pregnant women need environmental health programs in prenatal education. Pro‐environmental perceptions regarding the severity of the environmental diseases and behavioural efficacy preceded the formation of environmental health behaviours. Nurses should support pregnant women's environmental health through educational interventions including air, electromagnetic, food pollution and endocrine disruptors.
Down‐regulated lncRNA AGAP2‐AS1 contributes to pre‐eclampsia as a competing endogenous RNA for JDP2 by impairing trophoblastic phenotype
Authors: Xu Yetao , Xia Xi , Jiang Ying , Wu Dan , Wang Sailan , Fu Shilong , Yang Nana , Zhang Yuanyuan , Sun Lizhou
Published: March 2020

Recently, growing evidence has shown that aberrant long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) expression in conjunction with an impaired trophoblastic phenotype could implicate the pathological process of pre‐eclampsia (PE). However, only a small portion of lncRNAs has been characterized with regard to the function and molecular mechanisms involved in PE. There are still gaps in the available knowledge; as a result, there are currently only a few applicable treatments for PE in the context of lncRNA. Here, we found that lncRNA AGAP2‐AS1 is abnormally down‐regulated in severe PE placenta tissues. Using human trophoblasts, we established that AGAP2‐AS1 knockdown could inhibit trophoblasts proliferation and invasion and promote cell apoptosis. Further, we showed that overexpression of AGAP2‐AS1 substantially stimulated the development of the trophoblastic phenotype. Through high‐throughput sequencing analysis, we demonstrated that silencing of AGAP2‐AS1 favourably regulated various genes which are relevant to trophoblastic growth and invasion. Mechanistically, AGAP2‐AS1 promoted the suppressor protein, Jun dimerization protein 2 (JDP2), by sponging miR‐574‐5p. Resultantly, further impairment of the trophoblastic phenotype was achieved by way of inhibiting cell growth, apoptosis and invasion. We also determined that the expression of AGAP2‐AS1 could be mediated by FOXP1. Our results showed that the down‐regulated expression of lncRNA AGAP2‐AS1 might serve as a key suppressor in PE via inhibition of JDP2 at the post‐transcriptional level by competing for miR‐574; thus, this presents a novel therapeutic strategy for PE.
Adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate suppresses proliferation and migration capacity of human endometrial stem cells
Authors: Semenova Svetlana , Shatrova Alla , Vassilieva Irina , Shamatova Margarita , Pugovkina Natalja , Negulyaev Yuri
Published: March 2020

Extracellular ATP through the activation of the P2X and P2Y purinergic receptors affects the migration, proliferation and differentiation of many types of cells, including stem cells. High plasticity, low immunogenicity and immunomodulation ability of mesenchymal stem cells derived from human endometrium (eMSCs) allow them to be considered a prominent tool for regenerative medicine. Here, we examined the role of ATP in the proliferation and migration of human eMSCs. Using a wound healing assay, we showed that ATP‐induced activation of purinergic receptors suppressed the migration ability of eMSCs. We found the expression of one of the ATP receptors, the P2X7 receptor in eMSCs. In spite of this, cell activation with specific P2X7 receptor agonist, BzATP did not significantly affect the cell migration. The allosteric P2X7 receptor inhibitor, AZ10606120 also did not prevent ATP‐induced inhibition of cell migration, confirming that inhibition occurs without P2X7 receptor involvement. Flow cytometry analysis showed that high concentrations of ATP did not have a cytotoxic effect on eMSCs. At the same time, ATP induced the cell cycle arrest, suppressed the proliferative and migration capacity of eMSCs and therefore could affect the regenerative potential of these cells.
Fresh, frozen or fake: A comparison of predation rates measured by various types of sentinel prey
Authors: Nagy Rebecca K. , Schellhorn Nancy A. , Zalucki Myron P.
Published: March 2020

Arthropod predators and parasitoids support the health and functioning of the world's ecosystems, most notably by supplying biological control services to agricultural landscapes. Quantifying the impact that these organisms have on their prey can be challenging, as direct observation and measurement of arthropod predation is difficult. The use of sentinel prey is one method to measure predator impact; however, despite widespread use, few studies have compared predation on different prey types within a single experiment. This study evaluated the predation rates on four sentinel prey items in grass and wheat fields in south‐east Queensland, Australia. Attack rates on live and dead Helicoverpa armigera eggs, and dead H. armigera larvae and artificial plasticine larvae, were compared and the predators that were attracted to each prey type were documented with the use of field cameras. There was no significant difference in predation rates between sentinel eggs, while dead larvae were significantly more attacked than artificial larvae. Prey were attacked by a diverse range of predators, including ants, beetles, various nymph and juvenile insects and small mammals. Different predators were active in grass and crop fields, with predator activity peaking around dawn and dusk. The same trends were observed within and between the two habitats studied, providing a measure of confidence in the sentinel prey method. A range of different sentinel prey types could be suitable for use in most comparative studies; however, each prey type has its own benefits and limitations, and these should be carefully evaluated to determine which is most suitable to address the research questions.
REPORTING GUIDELINES FOR META‐ANALYSIS IN ECONOMICS
Authors: Havránek Tomáš , Stanley T. D. , Doucouliagos Hristos , Bom Pedro , Geyer‐Klingeberg Jerome , Iwasaki Ichiro , Reed W. Robert , Rost Katja , van Aert R. C. M.
Published: March 2020

Meta‐analysis has become the conventional approach to synthesizing the results of empirical economics research. To further improve the transparency and replicability of the reported results and to raise the quality of meta‐analyses, the Meta‐Analysis of Economics Research Network has updated the reporting guidelines that were published by this Journal in 2013. Future meta‐analyses in economics will be expected to follow these updated guidelines or give valid reasons why a meta‐analysis should deviate from them.
University‐firm competition in basic research and university funding policy
Authors: Stenbacka Rune , Tombak Mihkel
Published: March 2020

We characterize equilibrium investments in basic research by the commercial and university sectors contingent on public funding of the university. We find that firms invest in basic research despite the opportunities for free riding and we present conditions under which firms even have incentives to augment the public funding to the university. We characterize the socially optimal volume of public funding for the university sector. Finally, we compare total investments in a mixed duopoly with those of duopolies composed of two universities as well as two profit‐maximizing firms.
Pasture trees contribute to structural heterogeneity and plant distributions in post‐agricultural forests decades after canopy closure
Authors: Holmes Marion A.
Published: March 2020

Questions

Open‐grown shade trees retained in pastures are legacies of agricultural history that influence recolonization dynamics and create structural heterogeneity in post‐agricultural forests. This work addresses the long‐term influence of pasture trees on forest structure and composition. I ask: Do signs of successional nucleation in microhabitat, structure and composition near pasture trees persist decades after canopy closure? If so, does variation primarily reflect seed deposition or environmental facilitation?

Location

Southeastern Ohio, USA.

Methods

Thirteen open‐grown trees greater than 70 cm in diameter in second‐growth forests 40–90 years old were selected as study sites. Trees, saplings, herbs, and environmental variables were sampled and compared at three positions around each tree: under the canopy, at the dripline, and in the forest matrix.

Results

Soil pH was lower and coarse woody debris most abundant under pasture tree canopies. Stems >10 cm in diameter at breast height were nearly absent under each focal tree's canopy and most abundant at its dripline. Composition under the canopy was limited to shade‐tolerant trees, whereas the dripline was characterized by vertebrate‐dispersed species. Ant‐dispersed, adhesive, and unassisted herb species were most abundant under embedded pasture trees compared with the forest matrix.

Discussion

Evidence of nucleation around open‐grown trees persists for decades after canopy closure. Contrasts in structure and composition reflect spatially segregated interactions of competitive suppression and facilitation mediated by both dispersal and environment. Pasture trees contribute variation in microhabitat, composition, and structure to post‐agricultural forests, and their retention should be encouraged.
Orbit and origin of theLL7 chondrite Dishchii'bikoh (Arizona)
Authors: Jenniskens Peter , Moskovitz Nick , Garvie Laurence A. J. , Yin Qing‐Zhu , Howell J. Andreas , Free Dwayne L. , Albers Jim , Samuels David , Fries Marc D. , Mane Prajkta , Dunlap Daniel R. , Ziegler Karen , Sanborn Matthew E. , Zhou Qin , Li Qiu‐Li , Li Xian‐Hua , Liu Yu , Tang Guo‐Qiang , Welten Kees C. , Caffee Marc W. , Busemann Henner , Meier Matthias M. M. , Nesvorny David
Published: March 2020

The trajectory and orbit of theLL7 ordinary chondrite Dishchii'bikoh are derived from low‐light video observations of a fireball first detected at 10:56:26UTCon June 2, 2016. Results show a relatively steep ~21° inclined orbit and a short 1.13AUsemimajor axis. Following entry in Earth's atmosphere, the meteor luminosity oscillated corresponding to a meteoroid spin rate of 2.28 ± 0.02 rotations per second. A large fragment broke off at 44 km altitude. Further down, mass was lost to dust during flares at altitudes of 34, 29, and 25 km. Surviving meteorites were detected by Doppler weather radar and several small 0.9–29 g meteorites were recovered under the radar reflection footprint. Based on cosmogenic radionuclides and ground‐based radiometric observations, the Dishchii'bikoh meteoroid was 80 ± 20 cm in diameter assuming the density was 3.5 g/cm3. The meteoroid's collisional history confirms that the unusual petrologic class ofLL7 does not require a different parent body than three previously observedLLchondrite falls. Dishchii'bikoh was ejected 11 Ma ago from parent body material that has a 4471 ± 6 Ma U‐Pb age, the same as that of Chelyabinsk (4452 ± 21 Ma). The distribution of the four known pre‐impactLLchondrite orbits is best matched by dynamical modeling if the source ofLLchondrites is in the inner asteroid belt in a low inclined orbit, with the highly inclined Dishchii'bikoh being the result of interactions with Earth before impacting.
The meteorite of Barcelona (1704): History, discovery, and classification
Authors: Llorca Jordi , Campeny Marc , Ibáñez Neus , Allepuz David , Camarasa Josep Maria , Aurell‐Garrido Josep
Published: March 2020

On Christmas Day 1704, at 17 h (UT), a meteorite fell in Terrassa (about 25 km NW of Barcelona). The meteorite fall was seen and heard by many people over an area of several hundred kilometers and it was recorded in several historical sources. In fact, it was interpreted as a divine sign and used for propaganda purposes during the War of the Spanish Succession. Although it was believed that meteorite fragments were never preserved, here we discuss the recent discovery of two fragments (49.8 and 33.7 g) of the Barcelona meteorite in the Salvador Cabinet collection (Botanic Institute of Barcelona). They are very well preserved and partially covered by a fresh fusion crust, which suggests a prompt recovery, shortly after the fall. Analysis of the fragments has revealed that the Barcelona meteorite is an L6 ordinary chondrite. These fragments are among the oldest historical meteorites preserved in the world.
Diabetes alters the involvement of myofibroblasts during periodontal wound healing
Authors: Retamal Ignacio , Hernández Romina , Velarde Victoria , Oyarzún Alejandro , Martínez Constanza , Julieta González María , Martínez Jorge , Smith Patricio C.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Myofibroblasts constitute a specific cell phenotype involved in connective tissue healing. Diabetes alters the wound healing response. However, it is not clear whether diabetes modifies the involvement of myofibroblasts in periodontal wounds.

Materials and Methods

Type I diabetes was induced in rats through streptozotocin injection, and periodontal wounds were performed. Wound healing was evaluated histologically at 2, 5, 7, and 15 days by measuring epithelial migration, neutrophil infiltration, and collagen and biofilm formation. Distribution of myofibroblasts was evaluated through immunofluorescence for α‐smooth muscle actin. Data analyses were performed using the Shapiro–Wilk, ANOVA, or Kruskal–Wallis tests.

Results

Diabetic wounds were characterized by delayed epithelial closure, increased neutrophil infiltration, biofilm formation, and reduced collagen formation. Quantification of the myofibroblasts showed a significant reduction at 5 and 7 days in wounds of diabetic rats and an increase at 15 days when compared to wounds of non‐diabetic rats.

Conclusions

Diabetic wound healing was associated with decreased epithelial and connective tissue healing, increased levels of inflammation, and biofilm formation. Myofibroblast differentiation was delayed in diabetic periodontal wounds at early time points. However, myofibroblasts persisted at later time points of healing. The present study suggests that diabetes alters the involvement of myofibroblasts during periodontal wound healing.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Preoperative Rehabilitation in Patients of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Li Wei , Li Zhongli , Qie Shuyan , Li Ji , Xi Jia‐ning , Gong Wei‐jun , Zhao Yue , Chen Xue‐mei
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To investigate the biomechanical characteristics of patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury by gait analysis, surface electromyography (SEMG), and proprioception test, and provide rehabilitation suggestions according to the results.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 90 adults with unilateral ACL injury, ranging in age from 19 to 45 years (66 men and 24 women, average age: 30.03 ± 7.91) were recruited for this study form May 2018 to July 2019. They were divided into three groups according to the time after the injury: group A (3‐week to 1.5‐month), group B (1.5‐month to 1 year), and group C (more than 1 year). The SEMG signals were collected from the bilateral rectus femoris (RF), vastus medialis (VM), and vastus lateralis (VL) and the root mean square (RMS) were used to assess muscular activity. SEMG were used to analyze muscles function, gait analysis was used to evaluate the walking stability, balance and location assessment were used to analyze the proprioception.

Results

Through the comparison between bilateral limbs, all muscles strength shown decreased (RF: 239.94 ± 129.70 vs 364.81 ± 148.98, P = 0.001; VM: 298.88 ± 175.41 vs 515.79 ± 272.49, P = 0.001; VL:389.54 ± 157.97 vs 594.28 ± 220.31, P < 0.001) and the division of proprioception became larger (tandem position: 7.79 ± 1.57 vs 6.33 ± 1.49, P = 0.001; stance with one foot: 8.13 ± 0.84 vs 7.1 ± 0.57, P = 0.003; variance of 30°: 6.96 ± 3.15 vs 4.45 ± 1.67, P = 0.03; variance of 60°: 4.64 ± 3.38 vs 2.75 ± 1.98, P = 0.044) in the injured side when compared to the non‐injured and 26 gait parameters were shown difference in group A. In group B, the muscle strength of VL shown decreased (VL: 381.23 ± 142.07 vs 603.9 ± 192.72, P < 0.001) and the division of location of 30° became larger (7.62 ± 4.98 vs 4.33 ± 3.24, P = 0.028) in the injured side when compared to the non‐injured side and there were eight gait parameters that showed differences. In group C, the muscle strength and proprioception showed no differences and only 16 gait parameters showed differences between the bilateral limbs.

Conclusion

The results proved the deterioration of proprioception in 30° of injured side will not recover and non‐injury side and will become worse after 1 year from the injury; among the VL, VM, and RF, the recovery rate of VL is the slowest and bilateral straight leg raising (SLR) (30°) is the best way to train it; the gait stability will be worse after 1 year from the injury. Therefore, we suggest that the training for proprioception in 30° and VL are important for the rehabilitation, and the ACL reconstruction should be performed within 1 year.
Momentary mood predicts upcoming real‐life sedentary behavior
Authors: Giurgiu Marco , Plotnikoff Ronald C. , Nigg Claudio R. , Koch Elena D. , Ebner‐Priemer Ulrich W. , Reichert Markus
Published: March 2020

Humans in the industrialized world spend a large amount of daily time in sedentary behavior. Since sedentariness negatively impacts a variety of psychophysiological outcomes, the identification of antecedents that lead to sedentary behavior is an important public health issue. In this context, mood, a central indicator for both psychological well‐being and mental health, is severely understudied. To investigate whether mood dimensions influence subsequent sedentary behavior, we assessed both constructs at baseline via questionnaires and via ambulatory assessment (AA) over 5 days in 92 university employees. We continuously measured sedentary behavior using accelerometers and assessed mood repeatedly 10 times each day on smartphone diaries. We employed multiple regression analyses to analyze between‐subject effects and multilevel modeling to analyze within‐subject effects. Higher momentary ratings of valence (P < .05) and energetic arousal (P < .01) predicted lower amounts of subsequent sedentary behavior, whereas higher ratings of calmness (P < .01) predicted higher amounts of subsequent sedentary behavior. The context moderated the effect of energetic arousal and calmness on sedentary behavior with increased effects in the home compared to the work context. Mood significantly predicted sedentary behavior on a within‐subject level but not on a between‐subject level. Preliminary evidence suggests that mood regulates sedentary behavior in everyday life. Time‐sensitive analyses, such as from moment to moment revealed an association between mood and sedentary behavior (within‐subject), whereas analyses between different individuals revealed no associations (between‐subject). These preliminary findings may inform multicomponent intervention strategies that target mood, to reduce sedentary behavior in daily life.
Development of a tension pneumomediastinum during mechanical ventilation of a young Irish Wolfhound
Authors: Zersen Kristin M. , Haraschak Jenica L. , Sullivan Lauren A.
Published: March 2020

Objective

To report the development of a tension pneumomediastinum during mechanical ventilation of a young Irish Wolfhound with aspiration pneumonia.

Case Summary

A 9‐month‐old intact female Irish Wolfhound was presented for clinical signs consistent with aspiration pneumonia. Evaluation of her pedigree and clinical signs prompted suspicion of Irish Wolfhound rhinitis bronchopneumonia syndrome as a contributing factor. Despite supportive care for bronchopneumonia, progressive hypoxemia and increased work of breathing required mechanical ventilation (MV). Development of a pneumothorax 36 hours after initiation of MV necessitated bilateral thoracostomy tubes. Cardiovascular decline persisted despite resolution of the pneumothorax and 1 hour later the dog was humanely euthanized. On necropsy, severe pneumomediastinum was identified without other evidence of barotrauma. Necropsy results suggested tension pneumomediastinum as the cause of pneumothorax and cardiovascular deterioration.

New or Unique Information Provided

Pneumomediastinum has not been described in dogs receiving MV. This case highlights the importance of rapid detection of pneumomediastinum during MV, as the complication can quickly become life‐threatening.
The Effect of Eco-efficiency and Size on Company Value Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Mikial Msy. , Marwa Taufiq , Fuada Luk Luk , Meutia Inten
Published: March 2020

This study aims to empirically examine the effect of eco-efficiency and company size on the value of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The data used are secondary data obtained from annual reports and sustainability reports of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2013 to 2016. The number of observations in this study is 80. The instrument used to analyze is Partial Least Square. The novelty in this study is that eco-efficiency is calculated by comparing the amount of net sales to energy consumption, and to measure a company size with a proxy for the number of sales. The results of this study indicate that eco-efficiency has an influence on company value. The direction of influence is negative, meaning that the better the eco-efficiency, the lower the value of the company. Company size does not affect the value of the company, in the sense that the sale value does not cause the value of the company to experience better changes, because the value of the company is more influenced by the assets owned by the company. The limitation of this study is that the amount of energy sources used is difficult to obtain, so the study population is limited to companies listed on the IDX that have a Sustainability Reporting and are included in the Sustainability Disclosure Database from the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), which is not large. In the future it is expected that companies responsible for the environment implement environmental management accounting with eco-efficiency assessment indicators so as to reduce costs and environmental impacts by making more efficient use of resources so as to increase company value.
Medial olivocochlear reflex effects on synchronized spontaneous otoacoustic emissions
Authors: Mertes Ian B.
Published: March 2020

This study characterized medial olivocochlear (MOC) reflex activity on synchronized spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SSOAEs) as compared to transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) in normal-hearing adults. Using two time windows, changes in TEOAE and SSOAE magnitude and phase due to a MOC reflex elicitor were quantified from 1 to 4 kHz. In lower frequency bands, changes in TEOAE and SSOAE magnitude were significantly correlated and were significantly larger for SSOAEs. Changes in TEOAE and SSOAE phase were not significantly different, nor were they significantly correlated. The larger effects on SSOAE magnitude may improve the sensitivity for detecting the MOC reflex.
“It’s Our Responsibility”: Examining the Integration of Sexual Harassment and Assault Education in Sport Management Programs
Authors: Taylor Elizabeth A. , Paule-Koba Amanda
Published: March 2020

Colleges and universities provide a practical setting where faculty can integrate a curriculum that teaches sport management students, who are the future sport industry leaders, on critical topics they will encounter while working in the field. In light of the recent cases of sexual violence in the sport world (e.g., USA Gymnastics/Michigan State University, Baylor Football, Carolina Panthers), this study sought to examine the types of education and training on sexual violence that sport management faculty are utilizing in the classroom. Through the use of qualitative methods, 21 sport management faculty from 4-year institutions were interviewed to determine if and how the topic of sexual violence was being integrated in the classroom. Results showed a majority of the faculty were integrating current events and topics related to sexual violence in the classroom. However, faculty perceived that some courses were a “better fit” for these topics than others. Faculty also reported challenges to teaching these topics as the lines between a legal, sociological, and ethical standpoint can become confusing for students.
Route of Infection That Induces a High Intensity of Gamma Interferon-Secreting T Cells in the Genital Tract Produces Optimal Protection againstChlamydia trachomatisInfection in Mice
Authors: Igietseme Joseph U. , Uriri Ijindah M. , Kumar Shantha N. , Ananaba Godwin A. , Ojior Omegbhai O. , Momodu Inua A. , Candal Debra H. , Black Carolyn M.
Published: March 2020

The induction of local T helper type 1 (Th1)-mediated cellular immunity is crucial for resistance of mice to genital infection by the obligate intracellular bacteriumChlamydia trachomatis. We tested the hypothesis that the route of immunization that elicits relatively high numbers of chlamydia-specific, gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-secreting T lymphocytes (ISTLs) in the genital tract would induce optimal protective immunity against reinfection. Female BALB/c mice were infected intravaginally (i.v.), intranasally (i.n.), orally (p.o.), or subcutaneously (s.c.) withC. trachomatis. At days 7, 14, 21, and 28 postinfection, T cells isolated from the genital tract tissues were restimulated with chlamydial antigen in vitro, and the amounts of IFN-γ induced were measured by a sandwiched enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. At day 7 postinfection, i.n.- and i.v.-immunized mice had high levels of chlamydia-specific ISTLs in their genital tracts (203.58 ± 68.1 and 225.5 ± 12.1 pg/ml, respectively). However, there were no detectable ISTLs in the genital tracts of p.o.- or s.c.-infected mice. When preinfected mice were challenged i.v. 70 days later, animals preexposed by the i.n. route were highly resistant to reinfection, with greatly reduced chlamydial burden, and suffered an attenuated infection that resolved by day 6 postchallenge. Animals preexposed by the i.v. route were modestly protected, whereas p.o. and s.c. groups were indistinguishable in this regard from control mice. The resistance of i.n.-immunized mice (and to some extent the i.v.-exposed mice) to reinfection was associated with early appearance (within 24 h) of high levels of genital ISTLs compared with mice preinfected by other routes. Furthermore, although i.n. and i.v.-immunized mice had comparable levels of chlamydia-specific immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies in their vaginal washes, the levels of IgG2a were four- sixfold higher in i.n.-immunized mice than in any of the other groups. The results suggested that immunization routes that foster rapid induction of vigorous genital mucosal cell-mediated immune (CMI) effectors (e.g., IFN-γ), the CMI-associated humoral effector, IgG2a, and to some extent secretory IgA produce protective immunity against chlamydial genital infection. Therefore, i.n. immunization is a potential delivery route of choice in the development of a vaccine againstChlamydia.
Piracy of Decay-Accelerating Factor (CD55) Signal Transduction by the Diffusely Adhering StrainEscherichia coliC1845 Promotes Cytoskeletal F-Actin Rearrangements in Cultured Human Intestinal INT407 Cells
Authors: Peiffer Isabelle , Servin Alain L. , Bernet-Camard Marie-Françoise
Published: March 2020

Diffusely adheringEscherichia coli(DAEC) C1845 (clinical isolate) harboring the fimbrial adhesin F1845 can infect cultured human differentiated intestinal epithelial cells; this process is followed by the disassembly of the actin network in the apical domain. The aim of this study was to examine the mechanism by which DAEC C1845 promotes F-actin rearrangements. For this purpose, we used a human embryonic intestinal cell line (INT407) expressing the membrane-associated glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) protein-anchored decay-accelerating factor (DAF), the receptor of the F1845 adhesin. We show here that infection of INT407 cells by DAEC C1845 can provoke dramatic F-actin rearrangements without cell entry. Clustering of phosphotyrosines was observed, revealing that the DAEC C1845-DAF interaction involves the recruitment of signal transduction molecules. A pharmacological approach with a subset of inhibitors of signal transduction molecules was used to identify the cascade of signal transduction molecules that are coupled to the DAF, that are activated upon infection, and that promote the F-actin rearrangements. DAEC C1845-induced F-actin rearrangements can be blocked dose dependently by protein tyrosine kinase, phospholipase Cγ, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, protein kinase C, and Ca2+inhibitors. F-actin rearrangements and blocking by inhibitors were observed after infection of the cells with twoE. colirecombinants carrying the plasmids containing the fimbrial adhesin F1845 or the fimbrial hemagglutinin Dr, belonging to the same family of adhesins. These findings show that the DAEC Dr family of pathogens promotes alterations in the intestinal cell cytoskeleton by piracy of the DAF-GPI signal cascade without bacterial cell entry.
Expression of Mucin-Type Glycoprotein K88 Receptors Strongly Correlates with Piglet Susceptibility to K88+EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coli, but Adhesion of This Bacterium to Brush Borders Does Not
Authors: Francis David H. , Grange Philippe A. , Zeman David H. , Baker Diane R. , Sun Ronggai , Erickson Alan K.
Published: March 2020

Three antigenic variants of the K88 fimbrial adhesin exist in nature, K88ab, K88ac, and K88ad. EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC) strains that produce these fimbriae cause life-threatening diarrhea in some but not all young pigs. The susceptibility of pigs to these organisms has been correlated with the adherence of bacteria to isolated enterocyte brush borders. Whether that correlation holds for multiple K88 variants and over a broad genetic base of pigs is unknown and was the impetus for this study. We also desired to examine the correlation of the expression of a porcine intestinal brush border mucin-type glycoprotein (IMTGP) which binds K88ab and K88ac with the susceptibility of piglets to K88+ETEC. Of 31 neonatal gnotobiotic pigs inoculated with K88ab+or K88ac+ETEC, 13 developed severe diarrhea, became dehydrated, and died or became moribund. Another pig became severely lethargic but not dehydrated. In vitro brush border adherence analysis was not possible for 10 of the severely ill pigs due to colonization by challenge strains. However, of the 17 pigs that did not become severely ill, 8 (47%) had brush borders that supported the adherence of K88ab+and K88ac+bacteria in vitro, suggesting a poor correlation between in vitro brush border adherence and piglet susceptibility to K88+ETEC. By contrast, the expression of IMTGP was highly correlated with susceptibility to K88+ETEC. Of the 12 pigs that produced IMTGP, 11 developed severe diarrhea. The other pig that produced IMTGP became lethargic but not severely diarrheic. Only 2 of 18 pigs that did not produce IMTGP became severely diarrheic. Colonizing bacteria were observed in histologic sections of intestines from all pigs that expressed IMTGP except for the one that did not develop severe diarrhea. However, colonizing bacteria were observed in histologic sections from only one pig that did not produce IMTGP. The bacterial concentration in the jejuna and ilea of pigs expressing IMTGP was significantly greater (P< 0.005) than that in pigs not expressing IMTGP. These observations suggest the IMTGP is a biologically relevant receptor for K88ab+and K88ac+E. colior a correlate for expression for such a receptor.