bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Short-Term Digital Group Intervention to Relieve Mental Distress and Promote Well-Being Among Community-Dwelling Older Individuals During the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Study Protocol
Authors: Shapira Stav , Yeshua-Katz Daphna , Goren Ganit , Aharonson-Daniel Limor , Clarfield A. Mark , Sarid Orly
Published: April 2021

Older individuals are at an increased risk of experiencing adverse social and health consequences due to both the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken to manage it, such as social distancing. To promote community-dwelling older individuals' well-being during this time, the aims of the current project are to develop effective strategies in order (a) to increase older individuals' digital literacy, and (b) to help them acquire behavioral and cognitive skills that will improve their coping abilities with the stressful situation created as a result of the pandemic, as well as reducing adverse mental health effects. The project comprises an intervention arm that includes digital group sessions for older individuals meant to improve their digital literacy, promote their effective coping, and relieve their mental distress and loneliness. Subjects receive a short-term (seven sessions), twice-weekly, digitally guided group intervention through Zoom (a video conferencing app), and WhatsApp (instant messaging app). The wait list control-group participants receive twice-weekly telephone calls from a research assistant during a parallel period. Web-based questionnaires are filled in pre- and post-participation. The effectiveness of the intervention will be analyzed by comparing pre- and post-measures, between intervention and control groups. This protocol offers a model for helping to support vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is applicable regardless of the outbreak of a global health crisis or the imposition of lockdown rules; in fact, it has the potential to contribute to the social inclusion of vulnerable populations during routine times as well as during emergencies. Furthermore, ideas for future expansion include the integration of multilingual facilitators in order to reach seniors from underserved minority groups in various social contexts, even across borders.
Expression Profile of Circulating MicroRNAs in Dogs With Cardiac Hypertrophy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ro Woong-Bin , Kang Min-Hee , Song Doo-Won , Lee Sung-Hun , Park Hee-Myung
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to identify the expression profile of circulating microRNAs in dogs with eccentric or concentric cardiac hypertrophy. A total of 291 microRNAs in serum samples of five dogs with myxomatous mitral valve degeneration (MMVD) and five dogs with pulmonic stenosis (PS) were compared with those of five healthy dogs using microarray analysis. Results of microarray analysis revealed up-regulation of cfa-miR-130b [fold change (FC) = 2.13, p = 0.014), down-regulation of cfa-miR-375 (FC = 1.51, p = 0.014), cfa-miR-425 (FC = 2.56, p = 0.045), cfa-miR-30d (FC = 3.02, p = 0.047), cfa-miR-151 (FC = 1.89, p = 0.023), cfa-miR-19b (FC = 3.01, p = 0.008), and cfa-let-7g (FC = 2.53, p = 0.015) in MMVD group which showed eccentric cardiac hypertrophy, up-regulation of cfa-miR-346 (FC = 2.74, p = 0.032), down-regulation of cfa-miR-505 (FC = 1.56, p = 0.016) in PS group which showed concentric cardiac hypertrophy, and down-regulation of cfa-miR-30c (FC = 3.45, p = 0.013 in MMVD group; FC = 3.31, p = 0.014 in PS group) and cfa-let-7b (FC = 11.42, p = 0.049 in MMVD group; FC = 5.88, p = 0.01 in PS group) in both MMVD and PS groups. In addition, the unsupervised hierarchical clustering of differentially expressed microRNAs in each group resulted in complete separation of healthy dogs from dogs with heart diseases. Therefore, eleven microRNAs among 291 microRNAs were identified as differentially expressed circulating microRNAs related to MMVD or PS in dogs. This pilot study demonstrates that the microRNAs identified in this study could be possible candidates for novel biomarker or therapeutic target related to cardiac hypertrophy in dogs.
Discordance in ER, PR, HER2, and Ki-67 Expression Between Primary and Recurrent/Metastatic Lesions in Patients with Primary Early Stage Breast Cancer and the Clinical Significance: Retrospective Analysis of 75 Cases
Authors: Peng Li , Zhang Zhen , Zhao Dachun , Zhao Jialin , Mao Feng , Sun Qiang
Published: April 2021

Background: The objective was to explore the discordance in the expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and Ki-67 between primary and recurrent/metastatic lesions in patients with early stage breast cancer as well as the prognostic impact.

Method: Patients with early-stage primary breast cancer and confirmed recurrence/metastasis at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 2005 and August 2018 were screened. The details of discordance in each parameter between primary and recurrent/metastatic lesions and progression were recorded. Regression and survival analysis were applied to determine the association and clinical impact of the discordance.

Results: We evaluated 75 patients. The discordance rate of ER, PR, HER2, and Ki-67 expression was 9.3, 14.7, 14.7, and 21.5%, respectively. Additionally, 66.7, 11.8, 14.3, and 0% of patients with Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2, and triple-negative primary tumors presented with a different subtype for the recurrent/metastatic tumors, respectively. No statistical difference in progression-free survival was observed according to the subtype of the recurrent or metastatic breast cancer (p > 0.05). Among 69 patients for whom treatment was adjusted after recurrence or metastasis, 66 patients remained recurrence-free during the follow-up period.

Conclusion: For patients with early-stage breast cancer, the ER, PR, HER2, and Ki-67 expression profile for recurrent/metastatic tumors does not always match that of the primary tumor. After adjusting treatment according to the receptor expression in recurrent/metastatic lesions, most patients remained progression-free during the follow-up period.
Biostimulant Application Improves Yield Parameters and Accentuates Fruit Color of Annurca Apples
Authors: Di-Vaio Claudio , Cirillo Aurora , Cice Danilo , El-Nakhel Christophe , Rouphael Youssef
Published: April 2021

The Annurca apple is a typical fruit from Southern Italy that is notable for its high firmness and characteristic flavor, and presents positive effects on human health. The aim of the present study was to improve the agronomic characteristics of Annurca trees and the quality of their fruits by the use of plant biostimulants. We performed the study with three biostimulants (protein hydrolysates, seaweed extracts, and microalgae) to determine their effects on trees and fruits at harvest and during fridge conservation. The measurements in the field concerned the production per plant, the number of fruits, the diameter and fruit weight, the diameter of trunk, the weight of pruning, the first harvest %, and yield efficiency (plant prod./TCSA) for both growing seasons 2018–2019. The analyzed fruit parameters at harvest and during the fridge conservation were: flesh firmness, epicarp color, total soluble solids, pH, and titratable acidity. The results showed positive effects of the biostimulants on the production and the color parameters, especially with microalgae enhancing fruit redness (5-fold) and color index (8.5-fold). In particular, protein hydrolysates and microalgae increased the production (10.4%), diameter of the fruits (7.0%), the first harvest percentage (37.8%), and yield efficiency (6.9%). The tested plant biostimulants showed no significant effect on the measured qualitative parameters. This study represents the first detailed research on the use of different types of biostimulants on Annurca trees and their impact on the quality of its fruits from harvest to storage, and may present a sustainable alternative for the “melaio” processes.
Use of Controlled-Release Urea to Improve Yield, Nitrogen Utilization, and Economic Return and Reduce Nitrogen Loss in Wheat-Maize Crop Rotations
Authors: Xu Xinpeng , He Ping , Wei Jianlin , Cui Rongzong , Sun Jingxia , Qiu Shaojun , Zhao Shicheng , Zhou Wei
Published: April 2021

Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilizer input has become a common phenomenon among most farmers in the winter wheat–summer maize rotation system of north-central China, and has resulted in low nutrient use efficiency and environmental pollution. Controlled-release urea (CRU) is proposed as a solution to excessive fertilization because CRU achieves high yields and reduces N losses. Therefore, CRU mixed with normal urea at rates based on the Nutrient Expert (NE) system was used as fertilizer in a 4-year field experiment to test the preference in crop yields, economic benefits, nitrogen use efficiencies, and N losses. The following fertilizer treatments were established: local farmers’ practices (FP); normal urea fertilizer at the rate recommended by the NE system (NE); mixed CRU and normal urea at ratios of 60:40 (CRU1) and 75:25 (CRU2) based on the NE system; and 80% of the recommended N rate of the NE, CRU1 and CRU2 treatments (80%NE, 80%CRU1 and 80%CRU2). The results showed that, compared with the NE treatment at the same application rate of N, mixed CRU and urea increased yields and net benefits while reducing N loss. The application of CRU at 60% for maize and 75% for wheat had the best overall effects. Compared with FP, the average grain yield, recovery efficiency of N fertilizer and net benefits increased by 8.5%, 10.9% and 11.3%, respectively, for maize with CRU1, and increased by 4.5%, 15.1% and 10.3%, respectively, for wheat with CRU2. Furthermore, mixed CRU and urea at the recommended N rate significantly reduced N loss from 38.5% to 40.3% but increased soil NO3−-N and NH4+-N contents at 0–30 cm, although opposite results (NO3−-N) were observed deeper in the soil (30–90 cm). In the treatments 80%CRU1 and 80%CRU2, the maize yield and overall economic benefits were equivalent to those in the FP treatment, but apparent N loss was significantly reduced. Thus, these results confirmed that the combination of the CRU and the NE system for winter wheat–summer maize in north-central China is efficient and valuable, and has the potential to improve yield, nitrogen use efficiency and net benefit with low N losses.
New Insights on Biofilm Antimicrobial Strategies
Authors: Melo Luís D. R. , Azevedo Nuno F.
Published: April 2021

Over the last few decades, the study of microbial biofilms has been gaining interest among the scientific community [...]
Antibiotic Use in Very Low Birth Weight Neonates After an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program
Authors: Berardi Alberto , Zinani Isotta , Rossi Cecilia , Spaggiari Eugenio , D’Amico Virginia , Toni Greta , Bedetti Luca , Lucaccioni Laura , Iughetti Lorenzo , Lugli Licia
Published: April 2021

There is insufficient data regarding antimicrobial stewardship (AS) and outcomes of very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates after AS programs. This observational, retrospective study addressed AS and outcomes of VLBW neonates admitted to an Italian level-three center. Two periods were compared: (i) baseline, before AS (January 2011–December 2012) and (ii) intervention, after AS (January 2016–December 2017). Between these two periods, procedures were put in place to inform medical and nursing staff regarding AS. There were 111 and 119 VLBW neonates in the baseline (6744 live births) and in the intervention period (5902 live births), respectively. The number of infants exposed to antibiotics (70%) during the hospital stay did not change, but the total days of therapy (DOT, median 12 vs. 5) and DOT/1000 patient days (302 vs. 215) decreased in the intervention period (p < 0.01), as well as the median duration of first antibiotic treatment (144 vs. 48 h, p < 0.01). A re-analysis of single cases of culture-proven or culture-negative sepsis failed to demonstrate any association between deaths and a delay or insufficient antibiotic use in the intervention period. In conclusion, AS is feasible in preterm VLBW neonates and antibiotic use can be safely reduced.
First Experimental Evidence for the Presence of Potentially Toxic Vibrio cholerae in Snails, and Virulence, Cross-Resistance and Genetic Diversity of the Bacterium in 36 Species of Aquatic Food Animals
Authors: Chen Dailing , Li Xiangyi , Ni Ling , Xu Dingxiang , Xu Yingwei , Ding Yong , Xie Lu , Chen Lanming
Published: April 2021

Vibrio cholerae is the most common waterborne pathogen that can cause pandemic cholera in humans. Continuous monitoring of V. cholerae contamination in aquatic products is crucial for assuring food safety. In this study, we determined the virulence, cross-resistance between antibiotics and heavy metals, and genetic diversity of V. cholerae isolates from 36 species of aquatic food animals, nearly two-thirds of which have not been previously detected. None of the V. cholerae isolates (n = 203) harbored the cholera toxin genes ctxAB (0.0%). However, isolates carrying virulence genes tcpA (0.98%), ace (0.5%), and zot (0.5%) were discovered, which originated from the snail Cipangopaludina chinensis. High occurrences were observed for virulence-associated genes, including hapA (73.4%), rtxCABD (68.0–41.9%), tlh (54.2%), and hlyA (37.9%). Resistance to moxfloxacin (74.9%) was most predominant resistance among the isolates, followed by ampicillin (59.1%) and rifampicin (32.5%). Approximately 58.6% of the isolates displayed multidrug resistant phenotypes. Meanwhile, high percentages of the isolates tolerated the heavy metals Hg2+ (67.0%), Pb2+ (57.6%), and Zn2+ (57.6%). Distinct virulence and cross-resistance profiles were discovered among the V. cholerae isolates in 13 species of aquatic food animals. The ERIC-PCR-based genome fingerprinting of the 203 V. cholerae isolates revealed 170 ERIC-genotypes, which demonstrated considerable genomic variation among the isolates. Overall, the results of this study provide useful data to fill gaps for policy and research related to the risk assessment of V. cholerae contamination in aquatic products.
Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Molecules with Antioxidant Function
Authors: Irato Paola , Santovito Gianfranco
Published: April 2021

It is well known that the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can lead to the peroxidation of membrane lipids, glycation/oxidation/nitration of proteins, inactivation of enzymes, DNA mutation and damage, and other alterations in the subcellular components [...]
The Effects of Prunus spinosa L. Flower Extracts, Model Polyphenols and Phenolic Metabolites on Oxidative/Nitrative Modifications of Human Plasma Components with Particular Emphasis on Fibrinogen In Vitro
Authors: Marchelak Anna , Kolodziejczyk-Czepas Joanna , Wasielewska Paulina , Nowak Pawel , Olszewska Monika A.
Published: April 2021

Oxidative post-translational modifications of fibrinogen (a multifunctional blood plasma protein essential for hemostasis) are associated with the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disorders (CVDs). Prunus spinosa flower is a herbal medicine used in an adjuvant treatment of CVDs and rich in polyphenolic antioxidants. In the present study, phytochemically standardized P. spinosa flower extracts, their primary native polyphenols and potential phenolic metabolites were evaluated in vitro for their protective effects on fibrinogen (isolated and in the human plasma matrix) using a panel of complementary methods (SDS-PAGE, western blot, C-ELISA, fluorometry, FRAP, TBARS). The results revealed that the tested analytes at in vivo relevant levels (1–5 µg/mL) considerably reduced the structural changes in the fibrinogen molecule under the oxidative stress conditions induced by peroxynitrite. In particular, they diminished the oxidation and/or nitration of amino acid residues, including tyrosine and tryptophan, as well as the formation of high molecular weight aggregates. The decrease in the levels of 3-nitrotyrosine was about 13.5–33.0% and 58.3–97.1% at 1 µg/mL and 50 µg/mL, respectively. The study indicated that low molecular weight polyphenols were crucial for the protective activity of the extracts toward fibrinogen and other human plasma components. The investigated model compounds effectively protected total plasma proteins and lipids against oxidative damage (by reducing the levels of 3-nitrotyrosine and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and normalizing/enhancing the non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity of plasma). The work provides insight into the role of native and metabolized polyphenols as contributory factors to the systemic activity of blackthorn flower extracts within the circulatory system.
Sustained Maternal Smoking Triggers Endothelial-Mediated Oxidative Stress in the Umbilical Cord Vessels, Resulting in Vascular Dysfunction
Authors: Zahorán Szabolcs , Szántó Péter , Bódi Nikolett , Bagyánszki Mária , Maléth József , Hegyi Péter , Sári Tamás , Hermesz Edit
Published: April 2021

Nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability is fundamental in the regulation of redox balance and functionality of the endothelium, especially in the case of the umbilical cord (UC), which has no innervation. The analysis of UC vessel-related complications could serve as a useful tool in the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to neonatal cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the mechanisms that rule the severity of prenatal endothelial dysfunction, induced by the long-term effect of maternal smoking. Our analysis describes the initiation and the consequences of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) deactivation, along with the up-regulation of possible compensatory pathways, using structural, molecular and biochemical approaches. This study was carried out on both the UC arteries and veins originated from neonates born to non-smoking and heavy-smoking mothers. The alterations stimulated by maternal smoking are vessel-specific and proportional to the level of exposure to harmful materials passed through the placenta. Typically, in the primarily exposed veins, an increased formation of reactive oxygen species and an up-regulation of the highly-efficient NOS2-NO producing pathway were detected. Despite all the extensive structural and functional damages, the ex vivo heat and cadmium ion-treated UC vein pieces still support the potential for stress response.
Biogenic Calcium Phosphate from Fish Discards and By-Products
Authors: Fernández-Arias Mónica , Álvarez-Olcina Iago , Malvido-Fresnillo Pablo , Vázquez José Antonio , Boutinguiza Mohamed , Comesaña Rafael , Pou Juan
Published: April 2021

Every year, millions of tons of fish waste are generated from fishing activities, and a similar amount is discarded and returned to the sea as unwanted catches. This material can be used as a biological source for many potential new added-value products, such asobtaining hyaluronic acid from fish eyeballs or extracting collagen from fish skin, but there are not many utilities for fish bones yet. This work tackles the transformation of fish discards into calcium phosphates. Discards from scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa) and Atlantic horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus), as well as by-products generated from aquaculture activities (heads and trimmings frames) of salmon (Salmon salar), were used to obtain calcium phosphate. Biphasic carbonated hydroxyapatite (HA) /beta-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) material was obtained. The biphasic HA-TCP material has a promising range of applications in the biomedical field based on its similarity to calcium phosphates found in human bones in terms of crystallite size and carbonate content. The presence of Na, Mg, Sr, and K ions in the HA-TCP material is very beneficial, since they contribute to bone metabolism and cell adhesion.
CAl4Mg0/−: Global Minima with a Planar Tetracoordinate Carbon Atom
Authors: Job Nisha , Khatun Maya , Thirumoorthy Krishnan , CH Sasanka Sankhar Reddy , Chandrasekaran Vijayanand , Anoop Anakuthil , Thimmakondu Venkatesan S.
Published: April 2021

Isomers of CAl4Mg and CAl4Mg− have been theoretically characterized for the first time. The most stable isomer for both the neutral and anion contain a planar tetracoordinate carbon (ptC) atom. Unlike the isovalent CAl4Be case, which contains a planar pentacoordinate carbon atom as the global minimum geometry, replacing beryllium with magnesium makes the ptC isomer the global minimum due to increased ionic radii of magnesium. However, it is relatively easier to conduct experimental studies for CAl4Mg0/− as beryllium is toxic. While the neutral molecule containing the ptC atom follows the 18 valence electron rule, the anion breaks the rule with 19 valence electrons. The electron affinity of CAl4Mg is in the range of 1.96–2.05 eV. Both the global minima exhibit π/σ double aromaticity. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations were carried out for both the global minima at 298 K for 10 ps to confirm their kinetic stability.
Banach Contraction Principle and Meir–Keeler Type of Fixed Point Theorems for Pre-Metric Spaces
Authors: Wu Hsien-Chung
Published: April 2021

The fixed point theorems in so-called pre-metric spaces is investigated in this paper. The main issue in the pre-metric space is that the symmetric condition is not assumed to be satisfied, which can result in four different forms of triangle inequalities. In this case, the fixed point theorems in pre-metric space will have many different styles based on the different forms of triangle inequalities.
Qualitative Analyses of Integro-Fractional Differential Equations with Caputo Derivatives and Retardations via the Lyapunov–Razumikhin Method
Authors: Tunç Osman , Atan Özkan , Tunç Cemil , Yao Jen-Chih
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this paper is to investigate some qualitative properties of solutions of nonlinear fractional retarded Volterra integro-differential equations (FrRIDEs) with Caputo fractional derivatives. These properties include uniform stability, asymptotic stability, Mittag–Leffer stability and boundedness. The presented results are proved by defining an appropriate Lyapunov function and applying the Lyapunov–Razumikhin method (LRM). Hence, some results that are available in the literature are improved for the FrRIDEs and obtained under weaker conditions via the advantage of the LRM. In order to illustrate the results, two examples are provided.
Connectivity of Edaphic and Endolithic Microbial Niches in Cold Mountain Desert of Eastern Pamir (Tajikistan)
Authors: Khomutovska Nataliia , de los Ríos Asunción , Syczewski Marcin D. , Jasser Iwona
Published: April 2021

Microbial communities found in arid environments are commonly represented by biological soil crusts (BSCs) and endolithic assemblages. There is still limited knowledge concerning endoliths and BSCs occurring in the cold mountain desert of Pamir. The aim of the study was to investigate the composition and structure of endolithic bacterial communities in comparison to surrounding BSCs in three subregions of the Eastern Pamir (Tajikistan). The endolithic and BSC communities were studied using culture-independent and culture-dependent techniques. The structure of the endolithic bacterial communities can be characterized as Actinobacteria–Proteobacteria–Bacteroidetes–Chloroflexi–Cyanobacteria, while the BSCs’ can be described as Proteobacteria–Actinobacteria–Bacteroidetes–Cyanobacteria assemblages with low representation of other bacteria. The endolithic cyanobacterial communities were characterized by the high percentage of Chroococcidiopsaceae, Nodosilineaceae, Nostocaceae and Thermosynechococcaceae, while in the BSCs were dominated by Nodosilineaceae, Phormidiaceae and Nostocaceae. The analysis of 16S rRNA genes of the cyanobacterial cultures revealed the presence of possibly novel species of Chroococcidiopsis, Gloeocapsopsis and Wilmottia. Despite the niches’ specificity, which is related to the influence of microenvironment factors on the composition and structure of endolithic communities, our results illustrate the interrelation between the endoliths and the surrounding BSCs in some regions. The structure of cyanobacterial communities from BSC was the only one to demonstrate some subregional differences.
Unravelling the Extent of Diversity within the Iberian Medicinal Leeches (Hirudinea: Hirudo) Using Molecules and Morphology
Authors: Arias Andrés , Surugiu Victor , Carballeira Rafael , Popa Oana Paula , Popa Luis Ovidiu , Utevsky Serge
Published: April 2021

Until the beginning of the 21st century, the famous medicinal leech was thought to be represented by only one species, Hirudo medicinalis. However, recent publications have demonstrated that under that name, at least five different species of medicinal leeches were hidden. During the last decade, the biogeography of Western-Palaearctic leeches has begun to unravel, untangling their diversity in practically all of Europe, except for its westernmost peninsula, Iberia. Hirudo medicinalis has been repeatedly reported from Iberia, but those records were considered questionable. We discovered H. verbana in northern Spain, constituting its first record in Iberia. Using an integrative approach (combining morpho-anatomical data and molecular analyses using three genes, COI,12S rRNA, and ITS2), two endemic and geographically separated Iberian lineages have been found. One of them is easily distinguished by its distinctive colour-pattern and is described as H. verbana bilineata ssp. nov. We characterized the new subspecies morphologically, ecologically, and genetically. We also established its phylogenetic relationships with other European Hirudo spp. and confirm the presence of H. troctina in Iberia, occurring as far as 43° lat. N. Iberian H. verbana records constitute its westernmost known distribution to date. The provided distribution pattern of H. verbana contributes to a better understanding of the complexity of Iberia as a glacial refugium/cradle for endemisms, harbouring populations with a high degree of genetic structure that began to settle throughout the Pleistocene. Iberian Hirudo populations are declining in recent decades and there is an urgent need to assess their conservation status and to initiate conservation measures to reverse their decline.
Islet Dysfunction in a Novel Transgenic Model of T Cell Insulitis
Authors: Esakov Emily , Nandedkar-Kulkarni Neha , Al-Dieri Ali G. , Hafner Hannah , Gregg Brigid , McInerney Marcia F.
Published: April 2021

The newly established CD3FLAG-mIR transgenic mouse model on a C57Bl/6 background has a FLAG tag on the mouse Insulin Receptor (mIR), specifically on T cells, as the FLAG-tagged mIR gene was engineered behind CD3 promoter and enhancer. The IR is a chemotactic molecule for insulin and the Flag-tagged mIR T cells in the BL/6-CD3FLAGmIR transgenic mice can migrate into the pancreas, as shown by immunofluorescent staining. While the transgenic mice do not become diabetic, there are phenotypic and metabolic changes in the islets. The transgenic islets become enlarged and disorganized by 15 weeks and those phenotypes continue out to 35 weeks of age. We examined the islets by RT-PCR for cell markers, ER stress markers, beta cell proliferation markers, and cytokines, as well as measuring serum insulin and insulin content in the pancreas at 15, 25, and 35 weeks of age. In transgenic mice, insulin in serum was increased at 15 weeks of age and glucose intolerance developed by 25 weeks of age. Passage of transgenic spleen cells into C57Bl/6 RAG−/− mice resulted in enlarged and disorganized islets with T infiltration by 4 to 5 weeks post-transfer, replicating the transgenic mouse studies. Therefore, migration of non-antigen-specific T cells into islets has ramifications for islet organization and function.
Differential Experiences of Mental Health among Transgender and Gender-Diverse Youth in Colorado
Authors: Atteberry-Ash Brittanie , Kattari Shanna K. , Harner Vern , Prince Dana M. , Verdino Anthony P. , Kattari Leonardo , Park In Young
Published: April 2021

Young people experience a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, non-suicidal self-injury, and suicidal ideation. These issues are at even higher rates among transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) young people, due to the additional burden of having to navigate a world in which transphobia impacts them at the individual, organizational, and policy levels. However, much of the extant research focuses only on comparing TGD youth to cisgender counterparts. This study explores the nuance within the TDG youth population regarding mental health, examining how gender, race/ethnicity, and sexual orientation change the likelihood of experiencing each of these mental health concerns. Among a sample of over 400 young people, findings indicate that those TGD young people who do not identify themselves within the masculine/feminine binary and those with marginalized sexual orientations were two to three times more likely to experience adverse mental health outcomes, as compared to their peers who are questioning their gender, and who are heterosexual. The implications for mental health professionals and others who work with young people are to recognize that mental health is not a one-size-fits all model for young TGD people, and that the intersection of multiple marginalized identities, must be addressed in order to improve the mental health of this group of young people. Findings can also be used to better understand issues of stigma, discrimination, and victimization in education, health care, and beyond.
Widespread Alternative Splicing Changes in Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Oh Jagyeong , Pradella Davide , Shao Changwei , Li Hairi , Choi Namjeong , Ha Jiyeon , Ruggiero Sonia , Fu Xiang-Dong , Zheng Xuexiu , Ghigna Claudia , Shen Haihong
Published: April 2021

Aberrant alternative splicing (AS) is a hallmark of cancer and a potential target for novel anti-cancer therapeutics. Breast cancer-associated AS events are known to be linked to disease progression, metastasis, and survival of breast cancer patients. To identify altered AS programs occurring in metastatic breast cancer, we perform a global analysis of AS events by using RNA-mediated oligonucleotide annealing, selection, and ligation coupled with next-generation sequencing (RASL-seq). We demonstrate that, relative to low-metastatic, high-metastatic breast cancer cells show different AS choices in genes related to cancer progression. Supporting a global reshape of cancer-related splicing profiles in metastatic breast cancer we found an enrichment of RNA-binding motifs recognized by several splicing regulators, which have aberrant expression levels or activity during breast cancer progression, including SRSF1. Among SRSF1-regulated targets we found DCUN1D5, a gene for which skipping of exon 4 in its pre-mRNA introduces a premature termination codon (PTC), thus generating an unstable transcript degraded by nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD). Significantly, distinct breast cancer subtypes show different DCUN1D5 isoform ratios with metastatic breast cancer expressing the highest level of the NMD-insensitive DCUN1D5 mRNA, thus showing high DCUN1D5 expression levels, which are ultimately associated with poor overall and relapse-free survival in breast cancer patients. Collectively, our results reveal global AS features of metastatic breast tumors, which open new possibilities for the treatment of these aggressive tumor types.
Preparation and Application of Polyurethane Coating Material Based on Epoxy Cyclohexane Protective for Paper
Authors: Liu Juan , Jin Shan-Shan , Qi Ying-Ping , Shen Yong-Feng , Li Hua
Published: April 2021

Paper is important to most historical and cultural relics, however, these paper heritages are facing a crisis of disappearance, damage and aging. For increasing the paper strength, delaying the paper aging, and improving the weak stability and permeability of former resins used for paper, another material is necessary to be produced on preservation and protection of the paper items. The synthesis of epoxy cyclohexane polyetherpolyol was as follows: Epoxy cyclohexane was as the starting material, ethylene glycol was as the initiator, boron trifluoride ether was as catalyst, and dichloromethane was as the solvent. The synthesized homopolyether was characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR) spectroscopy to determine the structure. Then the epoxy cyclohexane homopolyether reacted with the hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) trimer, and the polyurethane was obtained. With the tests of the physical and chemical properties of paper samples, it showed that the paper processed with 10% polyurethane liquid had excellent performance, the increase in the tensile strength was from 1105 to 2317 N/m, and the increase in the folding endurance was from 20 to 504 times. What’s more, the paper processed with 10% polyurethane liquid had good brightness and gloss. The results of the paper samples for the test have shown that the synthesized material simultaneously has the advantages of epoxy cyclohexane homopolyether and polyurethane, possessing excellent performance in paper reinforcement. Thus, the synthesized polyurethane material has broad application prospect in paper protection field.
Efficacy of EDTA and HEDP Chelators in the Removal of Mature Biofilm of Enterococcus faecalis by PUI and XPF File Activation
Authors: Álvarez-Sagües Alejandro , Herce Nerea , Amador Ulises , Llinares-Pinel Francisco , Nistal-Villan Estanislao , Presa Jesús , Álvarez Laura , Azabal Magdalena
Published: April 2021

Background: Biofilm removal from the root canal during endodontic treatment is necessary to prevent further complications. Irrigation is essential to success. Several irrigants have been proposed without a proper comparison. The aim of the study is to compare the antibacterial capacity of different activated irrigants using passive ultrasonic activation (PUI) or XP-Endo finisher (XPF). Methods: A total of 100 instrumented teeth were incubated in an Eppendorf tube containing 0.5 McFarland of Enterococcus faecalis and incubated for 2 weeks at 37 °C. Roots were divided into 5 groups (n = 20) according to the irrigant type: ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) (17%), ethydronic acid (HEDP) (9%) mixed with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), EDTA (17%) mixed with 5.25% NaOCl, PBS, and a control group. Each group was divided into two subgroups (n = 10): PUI and XPF. Results: As compared to the untreated control group, the irrigators included in the study had a significant effect in bacteria reduction. The obtained results show HEDP to be the most effective irrigant, since no bacteria were recovered after treatment of this group, followed by EDTA mixed with NaOCl and, finally, the EDTA-irrigated group. Conclusions: HEDP is the best irrigating agent in combination with XPF or PUI file activation to eliminate bacteria in our experimental model.
Reconfigurable Antennas
Authors: Anagnostou Dimitris E. , Chryssomallis Michael T. , Goudos Sotirios
Published: April 2021

Antennas that can operate in different complex environments will be part of every modern wireless communication network, such as 5G, Internet-of-Things (IoT), and radar sensing [...]
VR-ZYCAP: A Versatile Resourse-Level ICAP Controller for ZYNQ SOC
Authors: Sultana Bushra , Ullah Anees , Malik Arsalan Ali , Zahir Ali , Reviriego Pedro , Muslim Fahad Bin , Ullah Nasim , Ahmad Waleed
Published: April 2021

Hybrid architectures integrating a processor with an SRAM-based FPGA fabric—for example, Xilinx ZynQ SoC—are increasingly being used as a single-chip solution in several market segments to replace multi-chip designs. These devices not only provide advantages in terms of logic density, cost and integration, but also provide run-time in-field reconfiguration capabilities. However, the current reconfiguration capabilities provided by vendor tools are limited to the module level. Therefore, incremental run-time configuration memory changes require a lengthy compilation time for off-line bitstream generation along with storage and reconfiguration time overheads with traditional vendor methodologies. In this paper, an internal configuration access port (ICAP) controller that provides a versatile fine-grain resource-level incremental reconfiguration of the programmable logic (PL) resources in ZynQ SoC is presented. The proposed controller implemented in PL, called VR-ZyCAP, can reconfigure look-up tables (LUTs) and Flip-Flops (FF). The run-time reconfiguration of FF is achieved through a reset after reconfiguration (RAR)-featured partial bitstream to avoid the unintended state corruption of other memory elements. Along with versatility, our proposed controller improves the reconfiguration time by 30 times for FFs compared to state-of-the-art works while achieving a nearly 400-fold increase in speed for LUTs when compared to vendor-supported software approaches. In addition, it achieves competitive resource utilization when compared to existing approaches.
In Vitro Study of Two Edible Polygonoideae Plants: Phenolic Profile, Cytotoxicity, and Modulation of Keap1-Nrf2 Gene Expression
Authors: Jovanović Marina , Tenji Dina , Nikolić Biljana , Srdić-Rajić Tatjana , Svirčev Emilija , Mitić-Ćulafić Dragana
Published: April 2021

Polygonum aviculare and Persicaria amphibia (subfam. Polygonoideae) are used in traditional cuisines and folk medicine in various cultures. Previous studies indicated that phytochemicals obtained from Polygonoideae plants could sensitize chemoresistant cancer cells and enhance the efficacy of some cytostatics. Here, the cytotoxic properties of chemically characterized ethanol extracts obtained from P. aviculare and P. amphibia, individually and in combination with doxorubicin (D), were determined against hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cells. Phenolic composition, cell viability, cell cycle, apoptosis, and the expression of Keap1 and Nrf2 were examined by following methods: LC-MS/MS, LC-DAD-MS, MTT, flow cytometry, and qRT-PCR. Extracts were rich in dietary polyphenolics. Synergistic cytotoxicity was detected for extracts combined with D. The observed synergisms are linked to the interference with apoptosis, cell cycle, and expression of Keap1-Nrf2 genes involved in cytoprotection. The combined approach of extracts and D could emerge as a potential pathway of chemotherapy improvement.
Application of Advanced Emulsion Technology in the Food Industry: A Review and Critical Evaluation
Authors: Tan Chen , McClements David Julian
Published: April 2021

The food industry is one of the major users of emulsion technology, as many food products exist in an emulsified form, including many dressings, sauces, spreads, dips, creams, and beverages. Recently, there has been an interest in improving the healthiness, sustainability, and safety of foods in an attempt to address some of the negative effects associated with the modern food supply, such as rising chronic diseases, environmental damage, and food safety concerns. Advanced emulsion technologies can be used to address many of these concerns. In this review article, recent studies on the development and utilization of these advanced technologies are critically assessed, including nanoemulsions, high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs), Pickering emulsions, multilayer emulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), multiple emulsions, and emulgels. A brief description of each type of emulsion is given, then their formation and properties are described, and finally their potential applications in the food industry are presented. Special emphasis is given to the utilization of these advanced technologies for the delivery of bioactive compounds.
Pectin Influences the Absorption and Metabolism of Polyphenols from Blackcurrant and Green Tea in Rats
Authors: Paturi Gunaranjan , Butts Christine A. , Joyce Nigel I. , Rippon Paula E. , Morrison Sarah C. , Hedderley Duncan I. , Lister Carolyn E.
Published: April 2021

Consumption of polyphenols and dietary fiber as part of a normal diet is beneficial to human health. In this study, we examined whether different amounts of dietary soluble fiber (pectin) affect the absorption and metabolism of polyphenols from blackcurrant and green tea in rats. After 28 days, the rats fed blackcurrant and green tea with pectin (4 or 8%) had significantly lower body weight gain and food intake compared to the rats fed a control diet. Rats fed a blackcurrant and green tea diet with 8% pectin had significantly higher fecal nitrogen output and lower protein digestibility. No polyphenols were observed in the urine, feces and plasma of rats fed the control diet. Parent catechins and flavonols were absent in urine obtained from all diet groups. Gallocatechin glucuronide was only observed in the plasma of rats fed the blackcurrant and green tea diet without pectin. Meanwhile, epicatechin and catechin gallate were present in the feces of rats fed a blackcurrant and green tea diet with and without 4% pectin. Pectin (4 or 8%) added to the blackcurrant and green tea diet increased the plasma antioxidant capacity in rats. Inclusion of pectin in the diet altered the host absorption and metabolism of polyphenols from blackcurrant and green tea.
In Silico and In Vitro Evaluation of the Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Mentha × smithiana R. GRAHAM Essential Oil from Western Romania
Authors: Jianu Călin , Stoin Daniela , Cocan Ileana , David Ioan , Pop Georgeta , Lukinich-Gruia Alexandra Teodora , Mioc Marius , Mioc Alexandra , Șoica Codruța , Muntean Delia , Rusu Laura-Cristina , Goleț Ionuț , Horhat Delia Ioana
Published: April 2021

This study was conducted to identify the volatile compounds of Mentha × smithiana essential oil (MSEO) and evaluate its antioxidant and antibacterial potential. The essential oil (EO) content was assessed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Carvone (55.71%), limonene (18.83%), trans-carveol (3.54%), cis-carveol (2.72%), beta-bourbonene (1.94%), and caryophyllene oxide (1.59%) were the main identified compounds. The MSEO displayed broad-spectrum antibacterial effects and was also found to be the most effective antifungal agent against Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis. The antioxidant activity of MSEO was tested against cold-pressed sunflower oil by peroxide, thiobarbituric acid, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), and β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching methods. The EO showed strong antioxidant effects as reflected by IC50 values of 0.83 ± 0.01 mg/mL and relative antioxidative activity of 87.32 ± 0.03% in DPPH and β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching assays, respectively. Moreover, in the first 8 days of the incubation period, the inhibition of primary and secondary oxidation compounds induced by the MSEO (0.3 mg/mL) was significantly stronger (p < 0.05) than that of butylated hydroxyanisole. In silico molecular docking studies were conducted to highlight the underlying antimicrobial mechanism as well as the in vitro antioxidant potential. Recorded data showed that the antimicrobial activity of MSEO compounds could be exerted through the D-Alanine-d-alanine ligase (DDl) inhibition and may be attributed to a cumulative effect. The most active compounds are minor components of the MSEO. Docking results also revealed that several mint EO components could exert their in vitro antioxidant activity by employing xanthine oxidase inhibition. Consequently, MSEO could be a new natural source of antioxidants and antiseptics, with potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries as an alternative to the utilization of synthetic additives.
Potential Use of Vacuum Impregnation and High-Pressure Homogenization to Obtain Functional Products from Lulo Fruit (Solanum quitoense Lam.)
Authors: Hinestroza-Córdoba Leidy Indira , Barrera Cristina , Seguí Lucía , Betoret Noelia
Published: April 2021

Lulo (Solanum quitoense Lam.) is a Colombian fruit that is mostly used in the preparation of homemade juice as well as natural remedy for hypertension. The aim of this study was to determine physicochemical and antioxidant properties (antioxidant capacity, total phenols, flavonoids and spermidine content, and polyphenolic compounds profile by liquid chromatography—mass spectrometry (LC-MS)) of the lulo fruit and its juice. Additionally, vacuum impregnation (VI) properties of the fruit and the effect of high homogenization pressure (50, 100, and 150 MPa) on the juice properties were studied. The results revealed a good availability and impregnation capacity of the pores in fruits with similar maturity index. The main differences observed between the juice and fruit derive from removing solids and bioactive components in the filtering operation. However, the effect of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) on particle size and bioactive compounds increases the antiradical capacity of the juice and the diversity in polyphenolics when increasing the homogenization pressure.
Designing a Transparent and Fluorine Containing Hydrogel
Authors: Ravarino Paolo , Giuri Demetra , Faccio Davide , Tomasini Claudia
Published: April 2021

Physical hydrogels are supramolecular materials obtained by self-assembly of small molecules called gelators. Aromatic amino acids and small peptides containing aromatic rings are good candidates as gelators due to their ability to form weak bonds as π-π interactions and hydrogen bonds between NH and CO of the peptide chain. In this paper we show our results in the preparation of a transparent hydrogel that was obtained by self-assembly of a fluorine-containing dipeptide that relies on the additional formation of halogen bonds due to the fluorine atoms contained in the dipeptide. We used Boc-D-F2Phe-L-Oxd-OH (F2Phe = 3,4-difluorophenylalainine; Oxd = 4-methyl-5-carboxy-oxazolidin-2-one) that formed a strong and transparent hydrogel in 0.5% w/w concentration at pH = 4.2. The formation of a hydrogel made of unnatural fluorinated amino acids may be of great interest in the evaluation of patients with parkinsonian syndromes and may be used for controlled release.
Post-Utopia: The Long View
Authors: Konstan David
Published: April 2021

The present article is divided into three parts. The first discusses the nature of utopias and their hypothetical anti-type, dystopias, and also disaster scenarios that are sometimes assimilated to dystopias, with reference also to the idea of post-utopia. An argument is made for the continuity of the utopian impulse, even in an age when brutal wars and forms of oppression have caused many to lose faith in any form of collectivity. Representations of social breakdown and its apparent opposite, totalitarian rigidity, tend to privilege the very individualism that the utopian vision aspires to overcome. The second part looks at examples of each of these types drawn from classical Greek and Roman literature, with a view to seeing how utopias were conceived at a time before the emergence of the modern ideology of the pre-social self. Finally, the third part examines several stories from the collection A People’s Future of the United States which imagine life in the near future. While most illustrate the failure of confidence in the social that has encouraged the intuition that a utopian future is passé, one, it is suggested, reconceives the relation between the individual and the social in a way that points to the renewed possibility of the utopian.