bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined With Physical Training on the Excitability of the Motor Cortex, Physical Performance, and Motor Learning: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Baofeng , Xiao Songlin , Yu Changxiao , Zhou Junhong , Fu Weijie
Published: April 2021

Purpose: This systematic review aims to examine the efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with physical training on the excitability of the motor cortex, physical performance, and motor learning.

Methods: A systematic search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases for relevant research published from inception to August 2020. Eligible studies included those that used a randomized controlled design and reported the effects of tDCS combined with physical training to improve motor-evoked potential (MEP), dynamic posture stability index (DPSI), reaction time, and error rate on participants without nervous system diseases. The risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool.

Results: Twenty-four of an initial yield of 768 studies met the eligibility criteria. The risk of bias was considered low. Results showed that anodal tDCS combined with physical training can significantly increase MEP amplitude, decrease DPSI, increase muscle strength, and decrease reaction time and error rate in motor learning tasks. Moreover, the gain effect is significantly greater than sham tDCS combined with physical training.

Conclusion: tDCS combined with physical training can effectively improve the excitability of the motor cortex, physical performance, and motor learning. The reported results encourage further research to understand further the synergistic effects of tDCS combined with physical training.
Acute Recreational Noise-Induced Cochlear Synaptic Dysfunction in Humans With Normal Hearing: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Qixuan , Yang Lu , Qian Minfei , Hong Yingying , Wang Xueling , Huang Zhiwu , Wu Hao
Published: April 2021

Objectives

The objective of the study was to identify the acute high-intensity recreational noise-induced effects on auditory function, especially the cochlear synaptopathy-related audiological metrics, in humans with normal hearing.

Methods

This prospective cohort study enrolled 32 young adults (14 males and 18 females); the mean age was 24.1 ± 2.4 years (ranging from 20 to 29). All participants with normal hearing (audiometric thresholds ≤25 dB HL at frequencies of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 kHz for both ears) had already decided to participate in the outdoor music festival. Participants were asked to measure the noise exposure dose and complete auditory examinations, including the air-conduction pure-tone audiometry (PTA), distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE), contralateral suppression (CS) on transient evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE), auditory brainstem response (ABR) test and Mandarin Hearing in Noise Test (MHINT), at baseline and 1 day and 14 days after music festival noise exposure.

Results

The mean time of attending the music festival was 7.34 ± 0.63 h (ranging from 6.4 to 9.5), the mean time-weighted average (TWA) of noise exposure dose was 93.2 ± 2.39 dB(A) (ranging from 87.9 to 97.7). At neither 1 day nor 14 days post exposure, there were no statistically significant effects on PTA thresholds, DPOAE amplitudes, CS on TEOAEs, or MHINT signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of acute outdoor music festival noise exposure, regardless of sex. While the ABR wave I amplitudes significantly decreased at 1 day after exposure and recovered at 14 days after exposure, the exposed/unexposed ABR wave I amplitude ratio was significantly correlated with MHINT SNR change at 1 day after exposure, although it was not correlated with the noise exposure dose.

Conclusion

In young adults with normal hearing, we found the self-compared decrement of ABR wave I amplitudes at 1 day post acute recreational noise exposure at high intensity, which also contributes to the change in speech perceptual ability in noisy backgrounds. This study indicated that auditory electrophysiological metric changes might be a more sensitive and efficient indicator of noise-induced cochlear synaptic dysfunction in humans. More attention should be paid to the recreational noise-induced cochlear synaptopathy and auditory perceptual disorder.
RETRACTED: LncRNA LIPE-AS1 Predicts Poor Survival of Cervical Cancer and Promotes Its Proliferation and Migration via Modulating miR-195-5p/MAPK Pathway
Authors: Zhang Jie , Jiang Pinping , Wang Shoyu , Cheng Wenjun , Fu Shilong
Published: April 2021

Aims: A growing number of studies have unveiled that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is conductive to cervical cancer (CC) development. However, the effect of LIPE-AS1 is remained to be studied in CC.

Main Methods: Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was employed to measure LIPE-AS1 expression in CC tissues and the adjacent normal tissues. Additionally, we conducted gain- and loss-of functional experiments of LIPE-AS1 and adopted CCK8 assay, BrdU assay, and in vivo tumor formation experiment to test the proliferation of CC cells (HCC94 and HeLa). Besides, the apoptosis, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of CC cells were estimated using flow cytometry, transwell assay, and western blot, respectively. Further, LIPE-AS1 downstream targets were analyzed through bioinformatics, and the binding relationships between LIPE-AS1 and miR-195-5p were verified via dual-luciferase activity experiment and RNA Protein Immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. Moreover, rescue experiments were conducted to confirm the effects of LIPE-AS1 and miR-195-5p in regulating CC development and the expressions of MAPK signaling pathway related proteins were detected by RT-PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence.

Key Findings: LIPE-AS1 was over-expressed in CC tissues (compared to normal adjacent tissues) and was notably related to tumor volume, distant metastasis. Overexpressing LIPE-AS1 accelerated CC cell proliferation, migration and EMT, inhibited apoptosis; while LIPE-AS1 knockdown had the opposite effects. The mechanism studies confirmed that LIPE-AS1 sponges miR-195-5p as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), which targets the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of MAP3K8. LIPE-AS1 promoted the expression of MAP3K8 and enhanced ERK1/2 phosphorylation, which were reversed by miR-195-5p.

Significance: LIPE-AS1 regulates CC progression through the miR-195-5p/MAPK signaling pathway, providing new hope for CC diagnosis and treatment.
Rogue Waves With Rational Profiles in Unstable Condensate and Its Solitonic Model
Authors: Agafontsev D. S. , Gelash A. A.
Published: April 2021

In this brief report we study numerically the spontaneous emergence of rogue waves in 1) modulationally unstable plane wave at its long-time statistically stationary state and 2) bound-state multi-soliton solutions representing the solitonic model of this state. Focusing our analysis on the cohort of the largest rogue waves, we find their practically identical dynamical and statistical properties for both systems, that strongly suggests that the main mechanism of rogue wave formation for the modulational instability case is multi-soliton interaction. Additionally, we demonstrate that most of the largest rogue waves are very well approximated–simultaneously in space and in time–by the amplitude-scaled rational breather solution of the second order.
Measuring Tumor Microenvironment pH During Radiotherapy Using a Novel Cerenkov Emission Multispectral Optical Probe Based on Silicon Photomultipliers
Authors: Oraiqat Ibrahim , Al-Snayyan Essam , Calcaterra Andrew , Clarke Roy , Rehemtulla Alnawaz , El Naqa Issam
Published: April 2021

Cerenkov Emission (CE) multispectral analysis with silicon photomultiplier (SiPM)-based optical probes is a promising tool for online tumor microenvironment interrogation and targeting during radiotherapy delivery. With the extreme sensitivity of SiPMs, deep tissue multispectral CE measurements can be realized in a clinical setting. In this work, we utilize our Cerenkov Emission Multi-spectral Imaging (CMSI) prototype probe to interrogate the spectral components of the CE signal generated during external beam radiotherapy. Our results demonstrated that CMSI enables effective probing of in vitro quantitative changes in the pH of cell media to monitor cancer cell proliferation after various treatment pathways and differentiate between varying treatment resistance cell lines. In addition, the feasibility of using the CMSI probe in vivo was also successfully demonstrated by measuring tumor pH during a pilot mouse study.
Atelectasis, Shunt, and Worsening Oxygenation Following Reduction of Respiratory Rate in Healthy Pigs Undergoing ECMO: An Experimental Lung Imaging Study
Authors: Spinelli Elena , Colussi Giulia , Dal Santo Gaia , Scotti Eleonora , Marongiu Ines , Garbelli Erica , Mazzucco Alessandra , Dondossola Daniele , Maia Raquel , Battistin Michele , Biancolilli Osvaldo , Rosso Lorenzo , Gatti Stefano , Mauri Tommaso
Published: April 2021

Rationale: Reducing the respiratory rate during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) decreases the mechanical power, but it might induce alveolar de-recruitment. Dissecting de-recruitment due to lung edema vs. the fraction due to hypoventilation may be challenging in injured lungs.

Objectives: We characterized changes in lung physiology (primary endpoint: development of atelectasis) associated with progressive reduction of the respiratory rate in healthy animals on ECMO.

Methods: Six female pigs underwent general anesthesia and volume control ventilation (Baseline: PEEP 5 cmH2O, Vt 10 ml/kg, I:E = 1:2, FiO2 0.5, rate 24 bpm). Veno-venous ECMO was started and respiratory rate was progressively reduced to 18, 12, and 6 breaths per minute (6-h steps), while all other settings remained unchanged. ECMO blood flow was kept constant while gas flow was increased to maintain stable PaCO2.

Measurements and Main Results: At Baseline (without ECMO) and toward the end of each step, data from quantitative CT scan, electrical impedance tomography, and gas exchange were collected. Increasing ECMO gas flow while lowering the respiratory rate was associated with an increase in the fraction of non-aerated tissue (i.e., atelectasis) and with a decrease of tidal ventilation reaching the gravitationally dependent lung regions (p = 0.009 and p = 0.018). Intrapulmonary shunt increased (p < 0.001) and arterial PaO2 decreased (p < 0.001) at lower rates. The fraction of non-aerated lung was correlated with longer expiratory time spent at zero flow (r = 0.555, p = 0.011).

Conclusions: Progressive decrease of respiratory rate coupled with increasing CO2 removal in mechanically ventilated healthy pigs is associated with development of lung atelectasis, higher shunt, and poorer oxygenation.
Cross Inhibition of MPK10 and WRKY10 Participating in the Growth of Endosperm in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Xi Xiaoyuan , Hu Zhengdao , Nie Xuerui , Meng Mingming , Xu Hao , Li Jing
Published: April 2021

The product of double fertilization produces seed, which contains three components: triploid endosperm, diploid embryo, and maternal seed coat. Amongst them, the endosperm plays a crucial role in coordinating seed growth. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are conserved in eukaryotes and involved in signal transduction of plant development. MPK3, MPK6, and MPK10 form a small group of MPKs family in Arabidopsis thaliana. MPK3 and MPK6 are extensively studied and were found to be involved in diverse processes including plant reproduction. However, less is known about the function of MPK10. Here, we found WRKY10/MINI3, a member of HAIKU (IKU) pathway engaging in endosperm development, and MPK10 is high-specifically expressed in the early developmental endosperm but with opposite gradients. We further proved that MPK10 and WRKY10 cross-inhibit the expression of each other. The inhibition effect of MPK10 on gene expression of WRKY10 and the downstream targets is supported by the fact that MPK10 interacts with WRKY10 and suppresses the transcriptional activity of WRKY10. Constantly, mpk10 mutants produce big seeds while WRKY10/MINI3 positively regulate seed growth. Altogether, our data provides a model of WRKY10 and MPK10 regulating endosperm development with a unique cross inhibitory mechanism.
A Cross-National Validation of the Shortened Version of the Adolescent Stress Questionnaire (ASQ-S) Among Adolescents From Switzerland, Germany, and Greece
Authors: Ertanir Beyhan , Rietz Christian , Graf Ulrike , Kassis Wassilis
Published: April 2021

The experience of stress is receiving increasing attention in the context of adolescent mental health, which is why a valid and reliable stress assessment instrument is of great importance. For this purpose, an English-language adolescent stress questionnaire (ASQ) was developed, which assesses the subjective stress experience of adolescents in different areas of life (e.g., at home, at school, and during leisure time). However, the latest long version of the questionnaire with 56 items (ASQ-2) was found to be too extensive, so a more economical short version ASQ-S with 27 items was developed. The aim of this study was to validate a German and a Greek version of the ASQ-S. In order to investigate the psychometric properties of the German and Greek ASQ-S confirmatory factor analysis, analyses of variance and correlations were applied to sample data from Switzerland, Germany, and Greece (N = 1,071 seventh-grade students; Mage = 12.53; SD = 0.76). The results yielded only poor to moderate internal reliability across all three countries and the suggested 9-dimensional factor structure could not be confirmed. Instead, a modified 6-factor structure was tested which showed acceptable model fits while demonstrating form invariance across the three countries. Furthermore, the ASQ-S scales correlated positively with depressive symptoms and anxiety and negatively with self-esteem and life satisfaction, all of which supported adequate concurrent validity. The results revealed that the utility of the ASQ-S appears to be limited when translated to other languages and should be used with caution when administered in international contexts.
Segmentation of Rhythmic Units in Word Speech by Japanese Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Cheong Yeonju , Uehara Izumi
Published: April 2021

When infants and toddlers are confronted with sequences of sounds, they are required to segment the sounds into meaningful units to achieve sufficient understanding. Rhythm has been regarded as a crucial cue for segmentation of speech sounds. Although previous intermodal methods indicated that infants and toddlers could detect differences in speech sounds based on stress-timed and syllable-timed units, these methods could not clearly indicate how infants and toddlers perform sound segmentation. Thus, the present study examined whether Japanese infants and toddlers could segment word speech sounds comprising basic morae (i.e., rhythm units similar to syllables), on the basis of concurrent basic mora units within syllable units, using the new intermodal matching procedure. The results indicated that, regardless of their ages and linguistic abilities, Japanese infants and toddlers aged 6–25 months tended to segment Japanese words comprising basic morae sounds on the basis of concurrent basic mora units within syllable units. This implies that infants' and toddlers' use of syllable units for segmentation of speech sounds at an early age could be evident among many infants and toddlers learning various languages. Although this finding should be interpreted carefully, the present study demonstrated the utility of the new intermodal matching procedure for examining segmentation of speech sounds and word sounds by infants and toddlers, on the basis of specific rhythm units.
Intra- and Inter-week Variations of Well-Being Across a Season: A Cohort Study in Elite Youth Male Soccer Players
Authors: Nobari Hadi , Fani Maryam , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Carlos-Vivas Jorge , Pérez-Gómez Jorge , Ardigò Luca Paolo
Published: April 2021

This study describes the weekly variations of well-being ratings relative to fatigue (wFatigue), stress (wStress), delayed-onset muscle soreness (wDOMS), sleep quality (wSleep), and Hooper questionnaire (wHQ) throughout the season. In addition, the well-being variables for the playing position in different moments of the season were discussed. Twenty-one elite young soccer players U17 took part in this study. From the beginning of the pre-season, well-being status was monitored daily by the HQ method throughout 36 weeks, including four periods: (1) pre-season, (2) early-season, (3) mid-season, and (4) end-season. Players trained at least 3 times per week throughout the season. The main outcome was that, in weeks 33 and 28, the highest [wFatigue: 15.85 ± 3.38 arbitrary units (AU); wHQ: 48.86 ± 9.23 AU] and the lowest (wFatigue: 5.38 ± 1.88 AU; wHQ: 20.43 ± 5.49 AU) wFatigue and wHQ occurred, respectively, although the lowest level of wDOMS happened in week 28 (4.86 ± 2.15 AU), while the highest wDOMS was observed in week 5 (14.65 ± 4.16 AU). The highest wSleep (13.00 ± 2.12 AU) and wStress (11.65 ± 2.92 AU) were observed in weeks 8 and 34, respectively, while the lowest wSleep (5.81 ± 2.29 AU) and wStress (3.76 ± 0.94 AU) were marked in week 29 coincidentally. In the HQ between every weekday, except recovery day, and the day of the match (MD), considerable highest HQ was only revealed in 2 days after MD in contrast to overall team comparison. In the present study, we observed that the well-being changes between different phases of the season as well as between weeks and days of the week with the MD are significant. These results provide a great point of view for coaches and practitioners about well-being variations over a season in elite youth soccer level. As a result, coaches will be more aware about non-functional overreaching and taking measures to prevent it.
Case Report: The Sexual Experiences of Forensic Mental Health Patients
Authors: Brand Elnike , Ratsch Angela , Heffernan Edward
Published: April 2021

The recovery-based approach to forensic mental health rehabilitation is to support the patient to achieve a fulfilling life—a principle which should include achieving a fulfilling sexual life. This paper presents four vignettes from forensic mental health patients. The four cases demonstrate the omission, avoidance and then judgement by forensic mental health clinicians around the intimate and sensitive, yet important domain of the patient's sexual life. The cases illustrate that gap in the clinical domain and demonstrate the requirement for forensic mental health clinicians to have a greater awareness, acknowledgment, and assessment of their patient's sexuality and sexual health needs. Incorporating sexual health into standard clinical assessments will contribute to improved patient management in addition to supporting the principles of holistic forensic mental health recovery and rehabilitation.
Machine Learning in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy Education: A Mixed Methods Pilot Survey of Postgraduate Students at a Swiss University
Authors: Blease Charlotte , Kharko Anna , Annoni Marco , Gaab Jens , Locher Cosima
Published: April 2021

Background:There is increasing use of psychotherapy apps in mental health care.

Objective:This mixed methods pilot study aimed to explore postgraduate clinical psychology students' familiarity and formal exposure to topics related to artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) during their studies.

Methods:In April-June 2020, we conducted a mixed-methods online survey using a convenience sample of 120 clinical psychology students enrolled in a two-year Masters' program at a Swiss University.

Results:In total 37 students responded (response rate: 37/120, 31%). Among respondents, 73% (n= 27) intended to enter a mental health profession, and 97% reported that they had heard of the term “machine learning.” Students estimated 0.52% of their program would be spent on AI/ML education. Around half (46%) reported that they intended to learn about AI/ML as it pertained to mental health care. On 5-point Likert scale, students “moderately agreed” (median = 4) that AI/M should be part of clinical psychology/psychotherapy education. Qualitative analysis of students' comments resulted in four major themes on the impact of AI/ML on mental healthcare: (1) Changes in the quality and understanding of psychotherapy care; (2) Impact on patient-therapist interactions; (3) Impact on the psychotherapy profession; (4) Data management and ethical issues.

Conclusions:This pilot study found that postgraduate clinical psychology students held a wide range of opinions but had limited formal education on how AI/ML-enabled tools might impact psychotherapy. The survey raises questions about how curricula could be enhanced to educate clinical psychology/psychotherapy trainees about the scope of AI/ML in mental healthcare.
The Impact of Pets on Everyday Life for Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Applebaum Jennifer W. , Ellison Carlyn , Struckmeyer Linda , Zsembik Barbara A. , McDonald Shelby E.
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The social and behavioral health of older adults is of particular concern during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that at least 50% of older adults in the U.S. have pets; while pets may be a source of support, they could also pose unique challenges during an already trying time. We aimed to investigate how pets impacted the everyday lives of older adults in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: A large survey of U.S. pet owners (n = 2,068) was administered to assess the impact of relationships with pets during COVID-19 on human health and well-being. We conducted bivariate analyses to compare levels of social support, loneliness, pet attachment, and family income for a subset of older adults (ages 65 and older) with a younger comparison group (ages 18–64). Using thematic and content analysis, we analyzed two open-ended prompts from age 65+ respondents (n = 122): (1) the pros and cons of living with pets during the pandemic, and (2) advice for those living with pets in future pandemics.

Results: Older adults, on average, reported lower levels of social support and less loneliness than respondents below age 65. There were no significant differences in strength of attachment to pets nor income between the younger and older respondents. For the open-ended prompt regarding pros and cons, we coded three emerging themes and related sub-themes: (1) pros (company; more time together; life purpose or meaning; love; support; stress relief; routine; distraction; exercise), (2) cons (general worry; potential for illness; limited participation; veterinary care access; obtaining supplies; difficulty meeting pet needs; financial concerns), and (3) no difference. Advice shared was coded into 13 themes/sub-themes: pets' health and welfare; make plans; veterinary information; treat pets like family; don't abandon pets; human health and well-being; stay calm; enjoy pets; keep routine; be careful of transmission; seek community resources; keep supplies stocked; and finances.

Conclusions: Pets may fulfill some social and emotional needs for older adults during this particularly isolating event; equally important to consider are the challenges that may be precipitated by and/or exacerbated by this public health emergency.
Delving Into Thermoeconomics: A Brief Theoretical Comparison of Thermoeconomic Approaches for Simple Cooling Systems
Authors: Picallo-Perez Ana , Sala José Mª , Portillo Luis del , Vidal Raquel
Published: April 2021

Thermoeconomics combines the concepts of economics and thermodynamics to assess the cost formation process of thermal systems. It has great applicability in the allocation, optimization and diagnosis of product costs. However, some aspects need to be gathered and solved, to have common criteria for its implementation. That is precisely what happens with dissipative components, which are part of cooling systems being so that different criteria are given to evaluate their impact in the cost distribution. In this paper, the state of art regarding the application of thermoeconomics in simple cooling systems is briefly evaluated, by giving the main characteristic of each approach, resolving that there is no a common criterion on the subject of the treatment of dissipative equipment and, therefore, neither on the costs accounting. Therefore, this work compiles and compares the different thermoeconomics methodologies. Consequently, it aims to serve as a tool for the appropriate selection of the thermoeconomics methodology for the analysis of real cooling systems.
Antimicrobial-Loaded Polymeric Micelles Inhibit Enteric Bacterial Pathogens on Spinach Leaf Surfaces During Multiple Simulated Pathogen Contamination Events
Authors: Yegin Yagmur , Perez-Lewis Keila L. , Liu Shuhao , Kerth Chris R. , Cisneros-Zevallos Luis , Castillo Alejandro , Akbulut Mustafa , Taylor Thomas M.
Published: April 2021

Protecting fresh-packed produce microbiological safety against pre- and post-harvest microbial pathogen contamination requires innovative antimicrobial strategies. Although largely ignored in the scientific literature, there exists the potential for gross failure in food safety protection of fresh fruits and vegetables leading to opportunity for multiple produce contamination events to occur during production and post-harvest handling of food crops. The primary objective of this research was to determine the efficacy of plant-derived antimicrobial-loaded nanoparticles to reduce Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium on spinach leaf surfaces whilst simulating multiple pathogen contamination events (pre-harvest and post-harvest). Spinach samples were inoculated with a blend of E. coli O157:H7 and S. Typhimurium, each diluted to ~8.0 log10 CFU/mL. The inoculated samples were then submerged in solutions containing nanoparticles loaded with geraniol (GPN; 0.5 wt.% geraniol), unencapsulated geraniol (UG; 0.5 wt.%), or 200 ppm chlorine (HOCl; pH 7.0), with untreated samples serving for controls. Following antimicrobial treatment application, samples were collected for surviving pathogen enumeration or were placed under refrigeration (5°C) for up to 10 days, with periodic enumeration of pathogen loads. After 3 days of refrigerated storage, all samples were removed, aseptically opened and subjected to a second inoculation with both pathogens. Treatment of spinach surfaces with encapsulated geraniol reduced both pathogens to non-detectable numbers within 7 days of refrigerated storage, even with a second contamination event occurring 3 days after experiment initiation. Similar results were observed with the UG treatment, except that upon recontamination at day 3, a higher pathogen load was detected on UG-treated spinach vs. GPN-treated spinach. These data fill a research gap by providing a novel tool to reduce enteric bacterial pathogens on spinach surfaces despite multiple contamination events, a potential food safety risk for minimally processed edible produce.
Case Report: Application and Limitations of a Plant-Based Diet Formulated for a Cat With Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Authors: Dodd Sarah A. S. , Grant Caitlin , Abood Sarah K. , Verbrugghe Adronie
Published: April 2021

A 2-year-old male castrated domestic shorthair cat was presented for recommendations for dietary management of chronic FLUTD using a strictly plant-based diet as per the stipulations of the cat's owner. The cat had a history of urethral obstruction of unknown etiology, persistent marked struvite crystalluria, and persistent inappropriate elimination. Commercial plant-based products meeting the nutritional recommendations for maintenance of adult cats with the lowest concentration of struvite precursors were identified, but the cat would not eat them. At the request of the client, a homemade plant-based diet was formulated with the intention of increasing water intake and promoting acidic, dilute urine. Urine concentration was able to be decreased somewhat and struvite crystalluria resolved, but the urine remained more alkaline than intended. The cat clinically improved and no further FLUTD episodes were reported by the client.
Utilizing Self-Leadership to Enhance Gratitude Thought Patterns
Authors: Godwin Jeffrey L. , Hershelman Susan M.
Published: April 2021

This article explores the value of integrating thought self-leadership (TSL) and gratitude as a resource for employees to create positive and productive personal and work environments. We propose a conceptual model showing the relationships between TSL, emotional state of gratitude, thought patterns about gratitude, and performance. Given the positive benefits of the practice of gratitude in people’s everyday lives and the positive benefits within organizations, TSL can be an important mechanism to enhance the development of gratitude. We argue that the level of gratitude experienced by individuals can be increased through the utilization of TSL. We propose a model which combines the constructs of TSL, gratitude, and performance.
Powdery Mildew Caused by Erysiphe cruciferarum on Wild Rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia): Hyperspectral Imaging and Machine Learning Modeling for Non-Destructive Disease Detection
Authors: Pane Catello , Manganiello Gelsomina , Nicastro Nicola , Cardi Teodoro , Carotenuto Francesco
Published: April 2021

Wild rocket is a widely cultivated salad crop. Typical signs and symptoms of powdery mildew were observed on leaves of Diplotaxis tenuifolia, likely favored by climatic conditions occurring in a greenhouse. Based on morphological features and molecular analysis, the disease agent was identified as the fungal pathogen Erysiphe cruciferarum. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of E. cruciferarum on D. tenuifolia. Moreover, the present study provides a non-destructive high performing digital approach to efficiently detect the disease. Hyperspectral image analysis allowed to characterize the spectral response of wild rocket affected by powdery mildew and the adopted machine-learning approach (a trained Random Forest model with the four most contributory wavelengths falling in the range 403–446 nm) proved to be able to accurately discriminate between healthy and diseased wild rocket leaves. Shifts in the irradiance absorption by chlorophyll a of diseased leaves in the spectrum blue range seems to be at the base of the hyperspectral imaging detection of wild rocket powdery mildew.
Physiological Parameters Monitored on Bottlenose Dolphin Neonates (Tursiops truncatus, Montagu 1821) over the First 30 Days of Life
Authors: Biancani Barbara , Sánchez-Contreras Guillermo J. , Furlati Stefano , Benaglia Francesco , Arija Carmen M. , Gili Claudia
Published: April 2021

Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) have been bred under human care for more than 60 years. Calves up to 30 days of life have presented the highest mortality rate, although comparable data for free-ranging neonates within this age group is not available. Husbandry measures to increase survivability have therefore been constantly improved. This work shows the results of a structured veterinary program that established the procedures to collect relevant physiological parameters on 13 calves during their first 30 days of life. Standardized observation protocols facilitated statistical analysis of the respiratory pattern, nursing, morphometric measurements and bloodwork. These allow early detection of health issues. Healthy neonates had longer apnea duration, despite the shape and size of the facility. The nursing pattern showed that successful calves started nursing 3 to 18 h postpartum. Although with different individual patterns, a steady increase in suckling time occurs during the first 24 h of life. The healthy neonates grew 0.428 ± 0.102 kg per day and the complete blood count profile, glucose, iron, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), total protein, Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), creatinine and electrolytes values considered normal for healthy calves are provided. Furthermore, cholesterol, triglycerides, α-amylase, lipase, magnesium and cortisol are reported for the first time for such young calves. A list of indications for prompt intervention is included.
MR-Guided Hypofractionated Radiotherapy: Current Emerging Data and Promising Perspectives for Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Cuccia Francesco , Corradini Stefanie , Mazzola Rosario , Spiazzi Luigi , Rigo Michele , Bonù Marco Lorenzo , Ruggieri Ruggero , Buglione di Monale e Bastia Michela , Magrini Stefano Maria , Alongi Filippo
Published: April 2021

In this review we summarize the currently available evidence about the role of hybrid machines for MR-guided radiotherapy for prostate stereotactic body radiotherapy. Given the novelty of this technology, to date few data are accessible, but they all report very promising results in terms of tolerability and preliminary clinical outcomes. Most of the studies highlight the favorable impact of on-board magnetic resonance imaging as a means to improve target and organs at risk identification with a consequent advantage in terms of dosimetric results, which is expected to relate to a more favorable toxicity pattern. Still, the longer treatment time per session may potentially affect the patient’s compliance to the treatment, although first quality of life assessment studies have reported substantial tolerability and no major impact on quality of life. Finally, in this review we hypothesize some future scenarios of further investigation, based on the possibility to explore the superior anatomy visualization and the role of daily adapted treatments provided by hybrid MR-Linacs.
Musashi-1 Regulates MIF1-Mediated M2 Macrophage Polarization in Promoting Glioblastoma Progression
Authors: Yang Yi-Ping , Chien Chian-Shiu , Yarmishyn Aliaksandr A. , Chan Man-Sheung , Lee Andy Chi-Lung , Chen Yi-Wei , Huang Pin-I , Ma Hsin-I , Lo Wen-Liang , Chien Yueh , Lin Wen-Chang , Wang Mong-Lien , Chen Ming-Teh
Published: April 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant brain tumor which is characterized by high proliferation and migration capacity. The poor survival rate has been attributed to limitations of the current standard therapies. The search for novel biological targets that can effectively hamper tumor progression remains extremely challenging. Previous studies indicated that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the abundant elements in the tumor microenvironment that are closely implicated in glioma progression and tumor pathogenesis. M2 type TAMs are immunosuppressive and promote GBM proliferation. RNA-binding protein Musashi-1 (MSI1) has recently been identified as a marker of neural stem/progenitor cells, and its high expression has been shown to correlate with the growth of GBM. Nevertheless, the relationship between MSI1 and TAMs in GBM is still unknown. Thus, in our present study, we aimed to investigate the molecular interplay between MSI1 and TAMs in contributing to GBM tumorigenesis. Our data revealed that the secretion of macrophage inhibitory factor 1 (MIF1) is significantly upregulated by MSI1 overexpression in vitro. Importantly, M2 surface markers of THP-1-derived macrophages were induced by recombinant MIF1 and reduced by using MIF1 inhibitor (S,R)-3-(4-hHydroxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-5-isoxazole acetic acid (ISO-1). Furthermore, GBM tumor model data suggested that the tumor growth, MIF1 expression and M2 macrophage population were significantly downregulated when MSI1 expression was silenced in vivo. Collectively, our findings identified a novel role of MSI1 in the secretion of MIF1 and the consequent polarization of macrophages into the M2 phenotype in promoting GBM tumor progression.
High Density Lipoproteins and Diabetes
Authors: Cochran Blake J. , Ong Kwok-Leung , Manandhar Bikash , Rye Kerry-Anne
Published: April 2021

Epidemiological studies have established that a high plasma high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. However, recent randomised clinical trials of interventions that increase HDL-C levels have failed to establish a causal basis for this relationship. This has led to a shift in HDL research efforts towards developing strategies that improve the cardioprotective functions of HDLs, rather than simply increasing HDL-C levels. These efforts are also leading to the discovery of novel HDL functions that are unrelated to cardiovascular disease. One of the most recently identified functions of HDLs is their potent antidiabetic properties. The antidiabetic functions of HDLs, and recent key advances in this area are the subject of this review. Given that all forms of diabetes are increasing at an alarming rate globally, there is a clear unmet need to identify and develop new approaches that will complement existing therapies and reduce disease progression as well as reverse established disease. Exploration of a potential role for HDLs and their constituent lipids and apolipoproteins in this area is clearly warranted. This review highlights focus areas that have yet to be investigated and potential strategies for exploiting the antidiabetic functions of HDLs.
A Role for RAGE in DNA Double Strand Breaks (DSBs) Detected in Pathological Placentas and Trophoblast Cells
Authors: Tsai Kary Y.F. , Tullis Benton , Breithaupt Katrina L. , Fowers Rylan , Jones Nelson , Grajeda Samuel , Reynolds Paul R. , Arroyo Juan A.
Published: April 2021

Impaired DNA damage responses are associated with several diseases, including pregnancy complications. Recent research identified an ATM-kinase dependent function for the nuclear isoform of the receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) during double strand break (DSB)-repair. RAGE contributes to end-resectioning of broken DNA sites by binding with the MRE11-Rad50-Nbs1 (MRN) complex. Placental research is limited regarding the impact of genomic instability and the mechanism for potential repair. We tested the hypothesis regarding the involvement of RAGE during the repair of placental DNA-DSBs. We first identified that the pregnancy complications of PE and preterm labor (PTL) experience loss of genomic integrity and an in vitro trophoblast cell model was used to characterize trophoblast DSBs. Colocalized immunofluorescence of γ-H2AX and RAGE support the potential involvement of RAGE in cellular responses to DNA-DSBs. Immunoblotting for both molecules in PE and PTL placenta samples and in trophoblast cells validated a connection. Co-immunoprecipitation studies revealed interactions between RAGE and pATM and MRE11 during DNA-DSBs. Reduced cellular invasion confirmed the role of genomic instability in trophoblastic function. Collectively, these experiments identified genomic instability in pregnancy complications, the impact of defective DNA on trophoblast function, and a possible RAGE-mediated mechanism during DNA-DSB repair.
Hyaluronic Acid as Macromolecular Crowder in Equine Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Cultures
Authors: Garnica-Galvez Sergio , Korntner Stefanie H. , Skoufos Ioannis , Tzora Athina , Diakakis Nikolaos , Prassinos Nikitas , Zeugolis Dimitrios I.
Published: April 2021

The use of macromolecular crowding in the development of extracellular matrix-rich cell-assembled tissue equivalents is continuously gaining pace in regenerative engineering. Despite the significant advancements in the field, the optimal macromolecular crowder still remains elusive. Herein, the physicochemical properties of different concentrations of different molecular weights hyaluronic acid (HA) and their influence on equine adipose-derived stem cell cultures were assessed. Within the different concentrations and molecular weight HAs, the 10 mg/mL 100 kDa and 500 kDa HAs exhibited the highest negative charge and hydrodynamic radius, and the 10 mg/mL 100 kDa HA exhibited the lowest polydispersity index and the highest % fraction volume occupancy. Although HA had the potential to act as a macromolecular crowding agent, it did not outperform carrageenan and Ficoll®, the most widely used macromolecular crowding molecules, in enhanced and accelerated collagen I, collagen III and collagen IV deposition.
MECP2 Increases the Pro-Inflammatory Response of Microglial Cells and Phosphorylation at Serine 423 Regulates Neuronal Gene Expression upon Neuroinflammation
Authors: Wittrahm Rebekka , Takalo Mari , Marttinen Mikael , Kuulasmaa Teemu , Mäkinen Petra , Kemppainen Susanna , Martiskainen Henna , Rauramaa Tuomas , Pike Ian , Leinonen Ville , Natunen Teemu , Haapasalo Annakaisa , Hiltunen Mikko
Published: April 2021

Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) is a critical transcriptional regulator for synaptic function. Dysfunction of synapses, as well as microglia-mediated neuroinflammation, represent the earliest pathological events in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, expression, protein levels, and activity-related phosphorylation changes of MECP2 were analyzed in post-mortem human temporal cortex. The effects of wild type and phosphorylation-deficient MECP2 variants at serine 423 (S423) or S80 on microglial and neuronal function were assessed utilizing BV2 microglial monocultures and co-cultures with mouse cortical neurons under inflammatory stress conditions. MECP2 phosphorylation at the functionally relevant S423 site nominally decreased in the early stages of AD-related neurofibrillary pathology in the human temporal cortex. Overexpression of wild type MECP2 enhanced the pro-inflammatory response in BV2 cells upon treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-γ (IFNγ) and decreased BV2 cell phagocytic activity. The expression of the phosphorylation-deficient MECP2-S423A variant, but not S80A, further increased the pro-inflammatory response of BV2 cells. In neurons co-cultured with BV2 cells, the MECP2-S423A variant increased the expression of several genes, which are important for the maintenance and protection of neurons and synapses upon inflammatory stress. Collectively, functional analyses in different cellular models suggest that MECP2 may influence the inflammatory response in microglia independently of S423 and S80 phosphorylation, while the S423 phosphorylation might play a role in the activation of neuronal gene expression, which conveys neuroprotection under neuroinflammation-related stress.
Supramolecular Chemistry in the 3rd Millennium
Authors: Housecroft Catherine E.
Published: April 2021

The description of supramolecular chemistry as “chemistry beyond the molecule” (Jean-Marie Lehn, 1987 Nobel Lecture and Gautam R [...]
Rf-Sputtered Teflon®-Modified Superhydrophobic Nanostructured Titanium Dioxide Coating on Aluminum Alloy for Icephobic Applications
Authors: Noormohammed Saleema , Sarkar Dilip Kumar
Published: April 2021

Icing on surfaces such as cables or high-voltage insulators may often lead to severe safety issues such as power outages in cold winter conditions. Conventional methods used to tackle such icing problems include mechanical deicing, where the ice is scraped or broken, and chemical deicing, where deicers such as ethylene glycol are used. However, the best approach to addressing these issues is to prevent ice formation in the first place. Research in the past few decades have shown hydrophobic and superhydrophobic surfaces to be effective in reducing ice adhesion. We used the concept of water repellency to turn an aluminum surface superhydrophobic to minimize ice adhesion on these surfaces. However, to render these surfaces also applicable to insulating surfaces, we also demonstrated the adaptability of the concept on a low dielectric oxide, TiO2, to an aluminum surface with icephobic properties. This work demonstrates the importance of the coexistence of rough nanostructures as well as low-surface-energy compositions on a surface to make it superhydrophobic and icephobic and is applicable on metals and insulating surfaces.
RETRACTED: Neurological Alterations and Testicular Damages in Aging Induced by D-Galactose and Neuro and Testicular Protective Effects of Combinations of Chitosan Nanoparticles, Resveratrol and Quercetin in Male Mice
Authors: Hamza Reham , Al-Harbi Mohammad , Al-Hazaa Munirah
Published: April 2021

Aging is a neurological disease that is afforded by incidence of oxidative stress. Chitosan has received global interests due to its wide medical uses. Quercetin (Q) is a bioflavonoid and widely distributed in vegetables and fruits. Resveratrol is considered as a potent antioxidant and is a component of a wide range of foods. The using of either chitosan nanopartciles (CH-NPs), querectin (Q), and resveratrol (RV) to reduce the oxidative stress and biochemical alterations on brain and testicular tissues induced by D-galactose (DG) (100 mg/Kg) were the aim of the present study. This study investigated the probable protective effects of CH-NPs in two doses (140,280 mg/Kg), Q (20 mg/Kg) and RV (20 mg/Kg), against DG induced aging and neurological alterations. Brain antioxidant capacity as malonaldehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GRx), as well as histopathological damages of the brain and testicular tissues were measured. The DG treated group had significantly elevated the oxidative stress markers by 96% and 91.4% in brain and testicular tissues respectively and lower significantly the antioxidant enzyme activities of both brain and testicular tissues than those of the control group by 86.95%, 69.27%, 83.07%, and 69.43%. Groups of DG that treated with a combination of CH-NPs in two doses, Q and RV, the levels of oxidative stress marker declined significantly by 68.70%, 76.64% in brain tissues and by 74.07% and 76.61% in testicular tissues, and the enzymatic antioxidants increased significantly by 75.55%, 79.24%, 62.32%, and 61.97% as compared to the DG group. The present results indicate that CH-NPs, Q, and RV have protective effects against DG-induced brain and testis tissue damage at the biochemical and histopathological levels. Mechanisms of this protective effect of used compounds against neurological and testicular toxicity may be due to the enhanced brain and testis antioxidant capacities.
Oncology Clinicians’ Challenges to Providing Palliative Cancer Care—A Theoretical Domains Framework, Pan-Cancer System Survey
Authors: Dunn Sharlette , Earp Madelene A. , Biondo Patricia , Cheung Winson Y. , Kerba Marc , Tang Patricia A. , Sinnarajah Aynharan , Watanabe Sharon M. , Simon Jessica E.
Published: April 2021

Despite the known benefits, healthcare systems struggle to provide early, integrated palliative care (PC) for advanced cancer patients. Understanding the barriers to providing PC from the perspective of oncology clinicians is an important first step in improving care. A 33-item online survey was emailed to all oncology clinicians working with all cancer types in Alberta, Canada, from November 2017 to January 2018. Questions were informed by Michie’s Theoretical Domains Framework and Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) and queried (a) PC provision in oncology clinics, (b) specialist PC consultation referrals, and (c) working with PC consultants and home care. Respondents (n = 263) were nurses (41%), physicians (25%), and allied healthcare professionals (18%). Barriers most frequently identified were “clinicians’ limited time/competing priorities” (64%), “patients’ negative perceptions of PC” (63%), and clinicians’ capability to manage patients’ social issues (63%). These factors mapped to all three BCW domains: motivation, opportunity, and capability. In contrast, the least frequently identified barriers were clinician motivation and perceived PC benefits. Oncology clinicians’ perceptions of barriers to early PC were comparable across tumour types and specialties but varied by professional role. The main challenges to early integrated PC include all three BCW domains. Notably, motivation is not a barrier for oncology clinicians; however, opportunity and capability barriers were identified. Multifaceted interventions using these findings have been developed, such as tip sheets to enhance capability, reframing PC with patients, and earlier specialist PC nursing access, to enhance clinicians’ use of and patients’ benefits from an early PC approach.