bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring Urban Greenspace Distribution Equity: The Importance of Appropriate Methodological Approaches
Authors: Mears Meghann , Brindley Paul
Published: June 2019

Urban greenspace can provide physical and mental health benefits to residents, potentially reducing health inequalities associated with socioeconomic deprivation. The distribution of urban greenspace is an important social justice issue, and consequently is increasingly studied. However, there is little consistency between studies in terms of methods and definitions. There is no consensus on what comprises the most appropriate geographic units of analysis or how to capture residents’ experience of their neighbourhood, leading to the possibility of bias. Several complementary aspects of distribution equity have been defined, yet few studies investigate more than one of these. There are also alternative methods for measuring each aspect of distribution. All of these can lead to conflicting conclusions, which we demonstrate by calculating three aspects of equity for two units of aggregation and three neighbourhood sizes for a single study area. We make several methodological recommendations, including taking steps to capture the relevant neighbourhood as experienced by residents accurately as possible, and suggest that using small-area aggregations may not result in unacceptable levels of information loss. However, a consideration of the local context is critical both in interpreting individual studies and understanding differing results.
Potential of Transcript Editing Across Mitogenomes of Early Land Plants Shows Novel and Familiar Trends
Authors: Myszczyński Kamil , Ślipiko Monika , Sawicki Jakub
Published: June 2019

RNA editing alters the identity of nucleotides in an RNA sequence so that the mature transcript differs from the template defined in the genome. This process has been observed in chloroplasts and mitochondria of both seed and early land plants. However, the frequency of RNA editing in plant mitochondria ranges from zero to thousands of editing sites. To date, analyses of RNA editing in mitochondria of early land plants have been conducted on a small number of genes or mitochondrial genomes of a single species. This study provides an overview of the mitogenomic RNA editing potential of the main lineages of these two groups of early land plants by predicting the RNA editing sites of 33 mitochondrial genes of 37 species of liverworts and mosses. For the purpose of the research, we newly assembled seven mitochondrial genomes of liverworts. The total number of liverwort genera with known complete mitogenome sequences has doubled and, as a result, the available complete mitogenome sequences now span almost all orders of liverworts. The RNA editing site predictions revealed that C-to-U RNA editing in liverworts and mosses is group-specific. This is especially evident in the case of liverwort lineages. The average level of C-to-U RNA editing appears to be over three times higher in liverworts than in mosses, while the C-to-U editing frequency of the majority of genes seems to be consistent for each gene across bryophytes.
Determination of the MiRNAs Related to Bean Pyralid Larvae Resistance in Soybean Using Small RNA and Transcriptome Sequencing
Authors: Zeng Weiying , Sun Zudong , Lai Zhenguang , Yang Shouzhen , Chen Huaizhu , Yang Xinghai , Tao Jiangrong , Tang Xiangmin
Published: June 2019

Soybean is one of the most important oil crops in the world. Bean pyralid is a major leaf-feeding insect of soybean. In order to screen out the functional genes and regulatory pathways related to the resistance for bean pyralid larvae, the small RNA and transcriptome sequencing were performed based on the highly resistant material (Gantai-2-2) and highly susceptible material (Wan 82-178) of soybean. The results showed that, when comparing 48 h feeding with 0 h feeding, 55 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in Gantai-2-2 and 58 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in Wan82-178. When comparing Gantai-2-2 with Wan82-178, 77 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified at 0 h feeding, and 70 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified at 48 h feeding. The pathway analysis of the predicted target genes revealed that the plant hormone signal transduction, RNA transport, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, zeatin biosynthesis, ubiquinone and other terpenoid-quinone biosynthesis, and isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis may play important roles in soybean’s defense against the stress caused by bean pyralid larvae. According to conjoint analysis of the miRNA/mRNA, a total of 20 differentially expressed miRNAs were negatively correlated with 26 differentially expressed target genes. The qRT-PCR analysis verified that the small RNA sequencing results were credible. According to the analyses of the differentially expressed miRNAs, we speculated that miRNAs are more likely to play key roles in the resistance to insects. Gma-miR156q, Gma-miR166u, Gma-miR166b, Gma-miR166j-3p, Gma-miR319d, Gma-miR394a-3p, Gma-miR396e, and so on—as well as their negatively regulated differentially expressed target genes—may be involved in the regulation of soybean resistance to bean pyralid larvae. These results laid a foundation for further in-depth research regarding the action mechanisms of insect resistance.
Novel Stenotic Microchannels to Study Thrombus Formation in Shear Gradients: Influence of Shear Forces and Human Platelet-Related Factors
Authors: Lui Mathew , Gardiner Elizabeth E. , Arthur Jane F. , Pinar Isaac , Lee Woei Ming , Ryan Kris , Carberry Josie , Andrews Robert K.
Published: June 2019

Thrombus formation in hemostasis or thrombotic disease is initiated by the rapid adhesion, activation, and aggregation of circulating platelets in flowing blood. At arterial or pathological shear rates, for example due to vascular stenosis or circulatory support devices, platelets may be exposed to highly pulsatile blood flow, while even under constant flow platelets are exposed to pulsation due to thrombus growth or changes in vessel geometry. The aim of this study is to investigate platelet thrombus formation dynamics within flow conditions consisting of either constant or variable shear. Human platelets in anticoagulated whole blood were exposed ex vivo to collagen type I-coated microchannels subjected to constant shear in straight channels or variable shear gradients using different stenosis geometries (50%, 70%, and 90% by area). Base wall shears between 1800 and 6600 s−1, and peak wall shears of 3700 to 29,000 s−1 within stenoses were investigated, representing arterial-pathological shear conditions. Computational flow-field simulations and stenosis platelet thrombi total volume, average volume, and surface coverage were analysed. Interestingly, shear gradients dramatically changed platelet thrombi formation compared to constant base shear alone. Such shear gradients extended the range of shear at which thrombi were formed, that is, platelets became hyperthrombotic within shear gradients. Furthermore, individual healthy donors displayed quantifiable differences in extent/formation of thrombi within shear gradients, with implications for future development and testing of antiplatelet agents. In conclusion, here, we demonstrate a specific contribution of blood flow shear gradients to thrombus formation, and provide a novel platform for platelet functional testing under shear conditions.
The Prediction of Gestational Hypertension, Preeclampsia and Fetal Growth Restriction via the First Trimester Screening of Plasma Exosomal C19MC microRNAs
Authors: Hromadnikova Ilona , Dvorakova Lenka , Kotlabova Katerina , Krofta Ladislav
Published: June 2019

The aim of the study was to verify if quantification of placental specific C19MC microRNAs in plasma exosomes would be able to differentiate during the early stages of gestation between patients subsequently developing pregnancy-related complications and women with the normal course of gestation and if this differentiation would lead to the improvement of the diagnostical potential. The retrospective study on singleton Caucasian pregnancies was performed within 6/2011-2/2019. The case control study, nested in a cohort, involved women that later developed GH (n = 57), PE (n = 43), FGR (n = 63), and 102 controls. Maternal plasma exosome profiling was performed with the selection of C19MC microRNAs with diagnostical potential only (miR-516b-5p, miR-517-5p, miR-518b, miR-520a-5p, miR-520h, and miR-525-5p) using real-time RT-PCR. The down-regulation of miR-517-5p, miR-520a-5p, and miR-525-5p was observed in patients with later occurrence of GH and PE. Maternal plasma exosomal profiling of selected C19MC microRNAs also revealed a novel down-regulated biomarker during the first trimester of gestation (miR-520a-5p) for women destinated to develop FGR. First trimester circulating plasma exosomes possess the identical C19MC microRNA expression profile as placental tissues derived from patients with GH, PE and FGR after labor. The predictive accuracy of first trimester C19MC microRNA screening (miR-517-5p, miR-520a-5p, and miR-525-5p) for the diagnosis of GH and PE was significantly higher in the case of expression profiling of maternal plasma exosomes compared to expression profiling of the whole maternal plasma samples.
A Tiny Change Makes a Big Difference in the Anti-Parasitic Activities of an HDAC Inhibitor
Authors: Loeuillet Corinne , Touquet Bastien , Guichou Jean François , Labesse Gilles , Sereno Denis
Published: June 2019

We previously synthesized an hydroxamate derivative (N-hydroxy-4-[2-(3- methoxyphenyl)acetamido]benzamide) named 363 with potent anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity and histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) effects. Here we show that 1-N-hydroxy-4-N- [(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]benzene-1,4-dicarboxamide, a 363 isomer, does not have antiparasitic potency and has a 13-fold decrease in HDACi activity. The in silico modeling of T. gondii HDACs of the type II strain discloses identity varying from 25% to 62% on more than 250 residues for S8EP32_TOXG and A0A125YPH4_TOXGM. We observed a high conservation degree with the human HDAC2 (53% and 64% identity, respectively) and a moderate one with the human HDAC8 (30–40%). Two other TgHDACs, S8F6L4_TOXGM and S8GEI3_TOXGM, were identified as displaying a higher similarity with some bacterial orthologs (~35%) than with the human enzymes (~25%). The docking in parallel of the two compounds on the models generated allowed us to gain insights on the docking of these hydroxamate derivatives that guide their specificity and potency against T. gondii histone deacetylase. This information would constitute the rationale from which more specific derivatives can be synthetized.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the Cyclophilin Gene Family in the Nematophagous Fungus Purpureocillium lilacinum
Authors: Mo Chenmi , Xie Chong , Wang Gaofeng , Liu Juan , Hao Qiuyan , Xiao Xueqiong , Xiao Yannong
Published: June 2019

Purpureocillium lilacinum has been widely used as a commercial biocontrol agent for the control of plant parasitic nematodes. Whole genome analysis promotes the identification of functional genes and the exploration of their molecular mechanisms. The Cyclophilin (CYP) gene family belongs to the immunophillin superfamily, and has a conserved cyclophilin-like domain (CLD). CYPs are widely identified in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and can be divided into single- and multi-domain proteins. In the present study, 10 CYP genes possessing the CLD, named PlCYP1–P10, were identified from the genome of P. lilacinum strain 36-1. Those 10 PlCYPs were predicted to have different cellular localizations in P. lilacinum. Phylogenetic and gene structure analysis revealed the evolutionary differentiation of CYPs between Ascomycotina and Saccharomycotina fungi, but conservation within the Ascomycotina fungi. Motif and gene structure distributions further support the result of phylogenetic analysis. Each PlCYP gene had a specific expression pattern in different development stages of P. lilacinum and its parasitism stage on eggs of Meloidogyne incognita. In addition, the 10 PlCYP genes exhibited different expression abundances in response to abiotic stresses, among which PlCYP4 was highly expressed at a high temperature (35 °C), while PlCYP6 was up-regulated under 5 mM of H2O2 stress. Furthermore, the heterologous expression of PlCYP4 and PlCYP6 in Escherichia coli enhanced the cellular tolerance against a high temperature and H2O2. In summary, our study indicates the potential functions of PlCYPs in virulence and the stress response, and also provides a frame for further analysis of the CYP gene family in Ascomycotina fungi.
Purinergic Signaling and Cochlear Injury-Targeting the Immune System?
Authors: Köles László , Szepesy Judit , Berekméri Eszter , Zelles Tibor
Published: June 2019

Hearing impairment is the most common sensory deficit, affecting more than 400 million people worldwide. Sensorineural hearing losses currently lack any specific or efficient pharmacotherapy largely due to the insufficient knowledge of the pathomechanism. Purinergic signaling plays a substantial role in cochlear (patho)physiology. P2 (ionotropic P2X and the metabotropic P2Y) as well as adenosine receptors expressed on cochlear sensory and non-sensory cells are involved mostly in protective mechanisms of the cochlea. They are implicated in the sensitivity adjustment of the receptor cells by a K+ shunt and can attenuate the cochlear amplification by modifying cochlear micromechanics. Cochlear blood flow is also regulated by purines. Here, we propose to comprehend this field with the purine-immune interactions in the cochlea. The role of harmful immune mechanisms in sensorineural hearing losses has been emerging in the horizon of cochlear pathologies. In addition to decreasing hearing sensitivity and increasing cochlear blood supply, influencing the immune system can be the additional avenue for pharmacological targeting of purinergic signaling in the cochlea. Elucidating this complexity of purinergic effects on cochlear functions is necessary and it can result in development of new therapeutic approaches in hearing disabilities, especially in the noise-induced ones.
Potential Mechanisms of T Cell-Mediated and Eosinophil-Independent Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness
Authors: Saeki Mayumi , Nishimura Tomoe , Kitamura Noriko , Hiroi Takachika , Mori Akio , Kaminuma Osamu
Published: June 2019

Bronchial asthma is a chronic disease characterized by reversible airway obstruction, mucus production, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR). Although Th2 cell-mediated eosinophilic inflammation is an important disease mechanism in the majority of patients with bronchial asthma, recent studies suggest the possible development of Th2-independent airway inflammation and BHR. These non-Th2 endotype patients seem to consist of multiple subgroups, and often do not respond to inhaled corticosteroids. Therefore, to understand the pathogenesis of asthma, it is important to characterize these non-Th2 subgroups. Recently, we demonstrated that Th9 cells induce eosinophil infiltration and eosinophil-independent BHR, and Th9 cells-mediated BHR may be resistant to glucocorticoid. In this review, we summarize the contribution of several T cell subsets in the development of bronchial asthma and introduce our recent study demonstrating Th9 cell-mediated and eosinophil-independent BHR.
Role of the Ubiquitin Proteasome System (UPS) in the HIV-1 Life Cycle
Authors: Rojas Vivian K. , Park In-Woo
Published: June 2019

Given that the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is the major protein degradation process in the regulation of a wide variety of cellular processes in eukaryotic cells, including alteration of cellular location, modulation of protein activity, and regulation of protein interaction, it is reasonable to suggest that the infecting HIV-1 and the invaded hosts exploit the UPS in a contest for survival and proliferation. However, to date, regulation of the HIV-1 life cycle has been mainly explained by the stage-specific expression of HIV-1 viral genes, not by elimination processes of the synthesized proteins after completion of their duties in the infected cells, which is also quintessential for understanding the molecular processes of the virus life cycle and thereby HIV-1 pathogenesis. In fact, several previous publications have indicated that the UPS plays a critical role in the regulation of the proteasomal degradation of viral and cellular counterparts at every step of the HIV-1 life cycle, from the virus entry to release of the assembled virus particles, which is integral for the regulation of survival and proliferation of the infecting HIV-1 and to replication restriction of the invading virus in the host. However, it is unknown whether and how these individual events taking place at different stages of the HIV-1 life cycle are orchestrated as an overall strategy to overcome the restrictions conferred by the host cells. Thus, in this review, we overview the interplay between HIV-1 viral and cellular proteins for restrictions/competitions for proliferation of the virus in the infected cell, which could open a new avenue for the development of therapeutics against HIV-1 via targeting a specific step of the proteasome degradation pathway during the HIV-1 life cycle.
An Inactivation Switch Enables Rhythms in a Neurospora Clock Model
Authors: Upadhyay Abhishek , Brunner Michael , Herzel Hanspeter
Published: June 2019

Autonomous endogenous time-keeping is ubiquitous across many living organisms, known as the circadian clock when it has a period of about 24 h. Interestingly, the fundamental design principle with a network of interconnected negative and positive feedback loops is conserved through evolution, although the molecular components differ. Filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa is a well-established chrono-genetics model organism to investigate the underlying mechanisms. The core negative feedback loop of the clock of Neurospora is composed of the transcription activator White Collar Complex (WCC) (heterodimer of WC1 and WC2) and the inhibitory element called FFC complex, which is made of FRQ (Frequency protein), FRH (Frequency interacting RNA Helicase) and CK1a (Casein kinase 1a). While exploring their temporal dynamics, we investigate how limit cycle oscillations arise and how molecular switches support self-sustained rhythms. We develop a mathematical model of 10 variables with 26 parameters to understand the interactions and feedback among WC1 and FFC elements in nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments. We performed control and bifurcation analysis to show that our novel model produces robust oscillations with a wild-type period of 22.5 h. Our model reveals a switch between WC1-induced transcription and FFC-assisted inactivation of WC1. Using the new model, we also study the possible mechanisms of glucose compensation. A fairly simple model with just three nonlinearities helps to elucidate clock dynamics, revealing a mechanism of rhythms’ production. The model can further be utilized to study entrainment and temperature compensation.
Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cells with Peptide-Functionalized Polymeric Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Xiuliang , Lu Nan , Zhou Ying , Xuan Shaoyan , Zhang Jiaojiao , Giampieri Francesca , Zhang Yongping , Yang Fangfang , Yu Risheng , Battino Maurizio , Wang Zuhua
Published: June 2019

Pancreatic cancer is a concealed and highly malignant tumor, and its early diagnosis plays an increasingly weighty role during the course of cancer treatment. In this study, we developed a polymeric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) nanoplatform for MRI contrast agents. To improve tumor-targeting delivery of MRI contrast agents, we employed a pancreatic cancer targeting CKAAKN peptide to prepare a peptide-functionalized amphiphilic hyaluronic acid–vitamin E succinate polymer (CKAAKN–HA–VES) for delivering ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO), namely, CKAAKN–HA–VES@USPIO. With the modification of the CKAAKN peptide, CKAAKN–HA–VES@USPIO could specifically internalize into CKAAKN-positive BxPC-3 cells. The CKAAKN–HA–VES@USPIO nanoparticles presented a more specific accumulation into pancreatic cancer cells than normal pancreatic cells, and an obvious decrease in signal intensity was observed in CKAAKN-positive BxPC-3 cells, compared with CKAAKN-negative HPDE6-C7 cells and non-targeting HA–VES@USPIO nanoparticles. The results demonstrated that our polymeric MRI nanoplatform could selectively internalize into CKAAKN-positive pancreatic cancer cells by the specific binding of CKAAKN peptide with pancreatic cancer cell membrane receptors, which provided a novel polymeric MRI contrast agent with high specificity for pancreatic cancer diagnosis, and makes it a very promising candidate for magnetic resonance imaging contrast enhancement.
The Role of Telomerase and Telomeres in Interstitial Lung Diseases: From Molecules to Clinical Implications
Authors: Arish Nissim , Petukhov Dmytro , Wallach-Dayan Shulamit B.
Published: June 2019

Telomeres are distal chromosome regions associated with specific protein complexes that protect the chromosome against degradation and aberrations. Telomere maintenance capacity is an essential indication of healthy cell populations, and telomere damage is observed in processes such as malignant transformation, apoptosis, or cell senescence. At a cellular level, telomere damage may result from genotoxic stress, decreased activity of telomerase enzyme complex, dysfunction of shelterin proteins, or changes in expression of telomere-associated RNA such as TERRA. Clinical evidence suggests that mutation of telomerase genes (Tert/Terc) are associated with increased risk of congenital as well as age-related diseases (e.g., pneumonitis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), dyskeratosis congenita, emphysema, nonspecific interstitial pneumonia, etc.). Thus, telomere length and maintenance can serve as an important prognostic factor as well as a potential target for new strategies of treatment for interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) and associated pulmonary pathologies.
Ubiquitination and Long Non-coding RNAs Regulate Actin Cytoskeleton Regulators in Cancer Progression
Authors: Ma Xuda , Dang Yamei , Shao Xiaowen , Chen Xuechun , Wu Fei , Li Yongmei
Published: June 2019

Actin filaments are a major component of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells and play an important role in cancer metastasis. Dynamics and reorganization of actin filaments are regulated by numerous regulators, including Rho GTPases, PAKs (p21-activated kinases), ROCKs (Rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinases), LIMKs (LIM domain kinases), and SSH1 (slingshot family protein phosphate 1). Ubiquitination, as a ubiquitous post-transcriptional modification, deceases protein levels of actin cytoskeleton regulatory factors and thereby modulates the actin cytoskeleton. There is increasing evidence showing cytoskeleton regulation by long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cancer metastasis. However, which E3 ligases are activated for the ubiquitination of actin-cytoskeleton regulators involved in tumor metastasis remains to be fully elucidated. Moreover, it is not clear how lncRNAs influence the expression of actin cytoskeleton regulators. Here, we summarize physiological and pathological mechanisms of lncRNAs and ubiquitination control mediators of actin cytoskeleton regulators which that are involved in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Finally, we briefly discuss crosstalk between ubiquitination and lncRNA control mediators of actin-cytoskeleton regulators in cancer.
Novel Insights into the Effect of Hyperforin and Photodynamic Therapy with Hypericin on Chosen Angiogenic Factors in Colorectal Micro-Tumors Created on Chorioallantoic Membrane
Authors: Majerník Martin , Jendželovský Rastislav , Babinčák Marián , Košuth Ján , Ševc Juraj , Tonelli Gombalová Zuzana , Jendželovská Zuzana , Buríková Monika , Fedoročko Peter
Published: June 2019

Photodynamic therapy with hypericin (HY-PDT) and hyperforin (HP) could be treatment modalities for colorectal cancer (CRC), but evidence of their effect on angiogenic factors in CRC is missing. Convenient experimental model utilization is essential for angiogenesis research. Therefore, not only 2D cell models, but also 3D cell models and micro-tumors were used and compared. The micro-tumor extent and interconnection with the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) was determined by histological analyses. The presence of proliferating cells and HY penetration into the tumor mass were detected by fluorescence microscopy. The metabolic activity status was assessed by an colorimetric assay for assessing cell metabolic activity (MTT assay) and HY accumulation was determined by flow cytometry. Pro-angiogenic factor expression was determined by Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). We confirmed the cytotoxic effect of HY-PDT and HP and showed that their effect is influenced by structural characteristics of the experimental model. We have pioneered a method for analyzing the effect of HP and cellular targeted HY-PDT on pro-angiogenic factor expression in CRC micro-tumors. Despite the inhibitory effect of HY-PDT and HP on CRC, the increased expression of some pro-angiogenic factors was observed. We also showed that CRC experimental micro-tumors created on quail CAM could be utilized for analyses of gene and protein expression.
Comparative Performance Evaluation of an Accuracy-Enhancing Lyapunov Solver
Authors: Sima Vasile
Published: June 2019

Lyapunov equations are key mathematical objects in systems theory, analysis and design of control systems, and in many applications, including balanced realization algorithms, procedures for reduced order models, Newton methods for algebraic Riccati equations, or stabilization algorithms. A new iterative accuracy-enhancing solver for both standard and generalized continuous- and discrete-time Lyapunov equations is proposed and investigated in this paper. The underlying algorithm and some technical details are summarized. At each iteration, the computed solution of a reduced Lyapunov equation serves as a correction term to refine the current solution of the initial equation. The best available algorithms for solving Lyapunov equations with dense matrices, employing the real Schur(-triangular) form of the coefficient matrices, are used. The reduction to Schur(-triangular) form has to be done only once, before starting the iterative process. The algorithm converges in very few iterations. The results obtained by solving series of numerically difficult examples derived from the SLICOT benchmark collections for Lyapunov equations are compared to the solutions returned by the MATLAB and SLICOT solvers. The new solver can be more accurate than these state-of-the-art solvers and requires little additional computational effort.
A Study Exploring the Implementation of an Equine Assisted Intervention for Young People with Mental Health and Behavioural Issues
Authors: Hemingway Ann
Published: June 2019

This paper presents the findings from a study of an equine assisted intervention (EAI), which is currently referred over 150 predominantly young people with mental health and behavioural problems each year. The young people are referred to this intervention when other services such as Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are not effective. Performing an exploratory study of implementation may be indicated when, there are few previously published studies or existing data using a specific intervention technique. This study showed some positive changes for participants across eight dimensions including; assertiveness, engagement with learning, calmness, planning, taking responsibility, empathy, communication and focus and perseverance. The equine intervention literature has shown mixed results across a variety of study designs and target groups, in terms of the gold standard of evidence, randomised controlled studies however the evidence currently is very limited. This study used a non-randomised sample, no control group and an unstandardised measurement filled out by those who refer young people to the intervention (social workers and teachers). The outcomes however from this exploratory study would suggest that a randomised control trial may be warranted and achievable.
A Meta-Epidemiological Appraisal of the Effects of Interdisciplinary Multimodal Pain Therapy Dosing for Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Dragioti Elena , Björk Mathilda , Larsson Britt , Gerdle Björn
Published: June 2019

Using a meta-analysis, meta-regression, and a meta-epidemiological approach, we conducted a systematic review to examine the influence of interdisciplinary multimodal pain therapy (IMPT) dosage on pain, disability, return to work, quality of life, depression, and anxiety in published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (CLBP). We considered all RCTs of IMPT from a Cochrane review and searched PubMed for additional RCTs through 30 September 2018. A subgroup random-effects meta-analysis by length, contact, and intensity of treatment was performed followed by a meta-regression analysis. Using random and fixed-effect models and a summary relative odds ratio (ROR), we compared the effect sizes (ES) from short-length, non-daily contact, and low-intensity RCTs with long-length, daily contact, and high-intensity RCTs. Heterogeneity was quantified with the I2 metric. A total of 47 RCTs were selected. Subgroup meta-analysis showed that there were larger ES for pain and disability in RCTs with long-length, non-daily contact, and low intensity of treatment. Larger ES were also observed for quality of life in RCTs with short-length, non-daily contact, and low intensity treatment. However, these findings were not confirmed by the meta-regression analysis. Likewise, the summary RORs were not significant, indicating that the length, contact, and intensity of treatment did not have an overall effect on the investigated outcomes. For the outcomes investigated here, IMPT dosage is not generally associated with better ES, and an optimal dosage was not determined.
Comparison of Oncologic Outcomes in Laparoscopic versus Open Surgery for Non-Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Personal Experience in a Single Institution
Authors: Chiu Chong-Chi , Lin Wen-Li , Shi Hon-Yi , Huang Chien-Cheng , Chen Jyh-Jou , Su Shih-Bin , Lai Chih-Cheng , Chao Chien-Ming , Tsao Chao-Jung , Chen Shang-Hung , Wang Jhi-Joung
Published: June 2019

The oncologic merits of the laparoscopic technique for colorectal cancer surgery remain debatable. Eligible patients with non-metastatic colorectal cancer who were scheduled for an elective resection by one surgeon in a medical institution were randomized to either laparoscopic or open surgery. During this period, a total of 188 patients received laparoscopic surgery and the other 163 patients received the open approach. The primary endpoint was cancer-free five-year survival after operative treatment, and the secondary endpoint was the tumor recurrence incidence. Besides, surgical complications were also compared. There was no statistically significant difference between open and laparoscopic groups regarding the average number of lymph nodes dissected, ileus, anastomosis leakage, overall mortality rate, cancer recurrence rate, or cancer-free five-year survival. Even though performing a laparoscopic approach used a significantly longer operation time, this technique was more effective for colorectal cancer treatment in terms of shorter hospital stay and less blood loss. Meanwhile, fewer patients receiving the laparoscopic approach developed postoperative urinary tract infection, wound infection, or pneumonia, which reached statistical significance. For non-metastatic colorectal cancer patients, laparoscopic surgery resulted in better short-term outcomes, whether in several surgical complications and intra-operative blood loss. Though there was no significant statistical difference in terms of cancer-free five-year survival and tumor recurrence, it is strongly recommended that patients undergo laparoscopic surgery if not contraindicated.
Haemotherapy with Fibrinogen for Perioperative Bleeding Prevention—A View on Arterial Thrombogenesis and Myocardial Infarction in the Rat In Vivo
Authors: Heinen André , Welke Vera , Behmenburg Friederike , Stroethoff Martin , Stoldt Volker , Hoffmann Till , Hollmann Markus W. , Huhn Ragnar
Published: June 2019

Major blood loss during cardiac surgery is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Clinical pilot studies indicated that preoperative fibrinogen supplementation reduces postoperative blood loss without increasing thrombotic complications. However, an increase in fibrinogen concentration might rather aggravate pre-existing thrombosis than increase the incidence of thrombotic events. Therefore, we investigated, in the present study, whether fibrinogen supplementation influences (1) arterial thrombus formation, (2) the extent of myocardial infarction and (3) the cardioprotective effect of ischaemic preconditioning. Arterial thrombogenesis of the femoral artery was induced by topic FeCl3 treatment in anaesthetised Wistar rats after pretreatment with 60 mg/kg (Fiblow), 120 mg/kg (Fibhigh) or vehicle (Con). Vessel blood flow was monitored, and time to vessel occlusion was analysed as a marker for arterial thrombogenesis. In addition, regional myocardial I/R injury was induced by temporary left coronary artery occlusion in rats pretreated with or without fibrinogen supplementation. In additional groups, ischaemic preconditioning (IPC) was induced by 3 cycles of 5 min of ischaemia/reperfusion. In all groups, myocardial infarct size was determined by triphenyltetrazoliumchlorid staining. Arterial thrombogenesis was not affected by fibrinogen pretreatment. No differences in time until vessel occlusion between Con, Fiblow and Fibhigh groups were observed. In addition, fibrinogen supplementation in low and high concentrations had no effect on infarct size after regional myocardial ischaemia and reperfusion (Fiblow: 66 ± 10%, Fibhigh: 62 ± 9%; each ns vs. Con). IPC reduced infarct size from 62 ± 14% to 34 ± 12% (p < 0.05 vs. Con). Furthermore, both fibrinogen concentrations did not affect cardioprotection by ischaemic preconditioning (Fiblow + IPC: 34 ± 11%, Fibhigh + IPC: 31 ± 13%; each ns vs. IPC). Haemotherapy with fibrinogen did not affect arterial thrombogenesis, myocardial infarction and the cardioprotective effect of ischaemic preconditioning.
Axial Compression Behaviour of Hybrid Double-Skin Tubular Columns Filled with Rubcrete
Authors: Youssf Osama , Hassanli Reza , Mills Julie E. , Zhuge Yan
Published: June 2019

Double-skin tubular columns (DSTCs) have become a competitive candidate for column members due to their important advantages compared with conventional reinforced concrete columns, including their better weight-to-strength ratio and ease of construction. Using Rubcrete in hybrid DSTCs is of great interest due to the potential of this system to overcome the Rubcrete material deficiencies and to add more ductility, toughness, seismic resistance, confinement effectiveness, and environmentally-friendly features to that structural system compared to conventional concrete. In this paper, hybrid DSTCs made out of Rubcrete, sandwiched between a fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) tube and a steel tube, were tested. The examined variables were concrete sand or stone replacement ratio (0% and 20%), FRP wall thickness (1- and 2-layers), steel wall thickness (3.2 mm and 4.5 mm), void ratio (50% and 76%), and void shape (circular or square). The axial and lateral stress–strain responses were monitored, measured, and compared. According to this investigation, using Rubcrete in hybrid DSTCs can enhance the axial and hoop strain capacities, especially with fine rubber particles. It was also observed that the adverse influence of using rubber on column ultimate capacity was much lower in DSTC specimens, compared with that of unconfined Rubcrete columns. Therefore, using Rubcrete with fine rubber particles is recommended in DSTC structural columns.
Nordic Walking Promoted Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese People: A Systematic Review for Future Exercise Prescription
Authors: Gobbo Stefano , Bullo Valentina , Roma Enrico , Duregon Federica , Bocalini Danilo Sales , Rica Roberta Luksevicius , Di Blasio Andrea , Cugusi Lucia , Vendramin Barbara , Bergamo Manuele , Cruz-Diaz David , Alberton Cristine Lima , Ermolao Andrea , Bergamin Marco
Published: June 2019

The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the effect of Nordic Walking (NW) on anthropometric parameters, body composition, cardiovascular parameters, aerobic capacity, blood sample, and glucose tolerance in overweight and obese subjects. The main keywords “Nordic Walking” or “Pole Walking”, associated with either “obese”, “obesity”, “overweight”, or “weight loss” were used on the online database MEDLINE, PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Scopus. Additionally, references of the studies included were screened to identify eligible articles. Applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, ten manuscripts were considered as eligible for this review. The results of the studies were categorized in several domains with regard to “anthropometric parameters and body composition”, “cardiovascular parameters and aerobic capacity”, and “blood sample and glucose tolerance”. The results showed positive effects on the anthropometric parameters, body composition, cardiovascular parameters, blood sample, and glucose tolerance. The greatest improvements were observed in supervised and high weekly frequency of NW interventions. NW could be considered as an effective modality through which to involve the obese in physical activity. For weight loss, NW should be prescribed 4–5 times per week, at least 60 min per session, preferably combined with diet control.
Concussion in Sports
Authors: Musumeci Giuseppe , Ravalli Silvia , Amorini Angela Maria , Lazzarino Giuseppe
Published: June 2019

Concussion, a peculiar type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), is an injury frequently encountered in various contact and noncontact sports, such as boxing, martial arts, American football, rugby, soccer, ice hockey, horse riding, and alpine skiing. Concussion occurs anytime external forces of specific intensities provoke acceleration–deceleration of the brain, and it is characterized by the rapid onset of short-lived impairment of neurologic functions, spontaneously resolving within weeks, persisting for longer times only in a small percentage of cases. A wide range of molecular alterations, including mitochondrial dysfunction, energy deficit, and gene and protein expression changes, is triggered by concussion and lasts longer than clinical symptoms. In recent years, concussion has become a primary issue of discussion among sports medicine professionals, athletes, media, and sports sponsors in relation to athletes’ return to play, after a concussion. Continued improvement in prevention and management of concussed athletes requires extensive research from different disciplines. Research work needs to focus on both prevention and management. Researchers and clinicians’ efforts should be dedicated to a better understanding of the molecular changes occurring in the post-concussed brain and to clearly define healing after concussion for a safe return of athletes to play. It is essential for sports medicine professionals to stay informed about the advances in understanding concussions and how to rehabilitate each single player who sustained a concussion.
Effects of Wave Orbital Velocity Parameterization on Nearshore Sediment Transport and Decadal Morphodynamics
Authors: Boechat Albernaz Marcio , Ruessink Gerben , Jagers H. R. A. (Bert) , Kleinhans Maarten G.
Published: June 2019

Nearshore morphological modelling is challenging due to complex feedback between hydrodynamics, sediment transport and morphology bridging scales from seconds to years. Such modelling is, however, needed to assess long-term effects of changing climates on coastal environments, for example. Due to computational efficiency, the sediment transport driven by currents and waves often requires a parameterization of wave orbital velocities. A frequently used parameterization of skewness-only was found to overfeed the coast unrealistically on a timescale of years—decades. To improve this, we implemented a recently developed parameterization accounting for skewness and asymmetry in a morphodynamic model (Delft3D). The objective was to compare the effects of parameterizations on long-term coastal morphodynamics. We performed simulations with default and calibrated sediment transport settings, for idealized coastlines, and compared the results with measured data from analogue natural systems. The skewness-asymmetry parameterization was found to predict overall stable coastlines within the measured envelope with wave-related calibration factors within a factor of 2. In contrast, the original parameterization required stronger calibration, which further affected the alongshore transport rates, and yet predicted erosion in deeper areas and unrealistic accretion near the shoreline. The skewness-asymmetry parameterization opens up the possibility of more realistic long-term morphological modelling of complex coastal systems.
When the Poor Buy the Rich: New Evidence on Wealth Effects of Cross-Border Acquisitions
Authors: Ho Hong-Hai , Vu Thi-Hanh , Dao Ngoc-Tien , Ho Manh-Tung , Vuong Quan-Hoang
Published: June 2019

The growing trend of merging and acquisition (M&A) investments from emerging to developed market economies over the last two decades motivates the question on the long-run effects of M&A on the wealth of emerging markets. This paper contributes to the current literature on cross-border M&A (CBMA) by focusing on the long-term effects of this event on the bidder’s stock return in emerging markets. To address the challenges of finding an accurate measure for the effects, this study applies the propensity score matching framework in tandem with difference-in-differences (DID) on a comprehensive dataset over the 1990–2010 period. The analyses show evidence of systematic detrimental impacts of cross-border M&A on shareholders’ welfare in the long run, to a certain extent, diverging from the existing literature, which mainly highlights the positive effects for certain types of M&A. The striking finding is that such strong negative effects remain persistent even when various factors previously known as capable of suppressing underperformance are considered. Our study is in line with the growing landscape of cross-border mergers and acquisitions from the “poor” to the “rich” countries.
The Emergence and Development of Syntactic Patterns in EFL Writing in a School Context: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Celaya M. Luz
Published: June 2019

The present longitudinal study analyses the emergence and development of syntactic patterns in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) written production. Data were elicited by means of a paper and pencil task from sixteen school learners at three different times over a time span of 6 years. Studies in the area of Second Language Writing (SLW) have mainly focused on English as a second language and very few longitudinal studies have been carried out with low proficiency learners in a school context. To further contribute to the field, we have tried out a new measure of analysis, namely, the production of syntactic patterns. The results show that most learners produce both a wider variety and a higher number of patterns from one time to another, although statistically significant differences vary across patterns in relation to the times of data collection; secondly, it was found that the behaviour of two of the learners differed from that of the rest of the participants. It is concluded that in an instructional setting, the development of syntactic patterns in EFL writing as proficiency increases does not always show progression towards complexity and that it may be learner dependent.
Electromagnetic Sheet Forming by Uniform Pressure Using Flat Spiral Coil
Authors: Cui Xiaohui , Qiu Dongyang , Jiang Lina , Yu Hailiang , Du Zhihao , Xiao Ang
Published: June 2019

The coil is the most important component in electromagnetic forming. Two important questions in electromagnetic forming are how to obtain the desired magnetic force distribution on the sheet and increase the service life of the coil. A uniform pressure coil is widely used in sheet embossing, bulging, and welding. However, the coil is easy to break, and the manufacturing process is complex. In this paper, a new uniform-pressure coil with a planar structure was designed. A three-dimensional (3D) finite element model was established to analyze the effect of the main process parameters on magnetic force distribution. By comparing the experimental results, it was found that the simulation results have a higher analysis precision. Based on the simulation results, the resistivity of the die, spacing between the left and right parts of the coil, relative position between coil and sheet, and sheet width significantly affect the distribution of magnetic force. Compared with the structure and magnetic force on a traditional uniform pressure coil, the planar uniform pressure coil can produce a uniform magnetic force distribution on the sheet, reduce the manufacturing difficulty, reduce manufacturing cost, and enhance the service life for the coil.
Conceptual Design of Composite Sandwich Structure Submarine Radome
Authors: Waqas Hafiz Muhammad , Shi Dongyan , Imran Muhammad , Khan Sohaib Z. , Tong Lili , Ahad Fazal e , Zaidi Asad A. , Iqbal Javid , Ahmed Waqas
Published: June 2019

Radomes are usually constructed from sandwich structures made of materials which usually have a low dielectric constant so that they do not interfere with electromagnetic waves. Performance of the antenna is increased by the appropriate assortment of materials enabling it to survive under marine applications, and it depends on composite strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and resistance to corrosion. The design of a sandwich core submarine radome greatly depends on the material system, number of layers, orientation angles, and thickness of the core material. In this paper, a conceptual design study for a sandwich core submarine radome is carried out with the help of finite element analysis (FEA) using two unidirectional composite materials—glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)—as a skin material and six different core materials. Conceptual designs are obtained based on constraints on the composite materials’ failure, buckling, and strength. The thickness of the core is reduced under constraints on material and buckling strength. Finite element analysis software ANSYS WORKBENCH is used to carry out all the simulations.