bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Antioxidant Natural Products in Management of Infertility: A Review of Their Medicinal Potential
Authors: Noh Seungjin , Go Ara , Kim Da Bin , Park Minjeong , Jeon Hee Won , Kim Bonglee
Published: October 2020

Infertility, a couple’s inability to conceive after one year of unprotected regular intercourse, is an important issue in the world. The use of natural products in the treatment of infertility has been considered as a possible alternative to conventional therapies. The present study aimed to investigate the effects and the mechanisms of various natural products on infertility. We collected articles regarding infertility and natural products using the research databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Several natural products possess antioxidant properties and androgenic activities on productive factors and hormones. Antioxidants are the first defense barrier against free radicals produced by oxidative stress (OS). They remove reactive oxygen stress (ROS), reducing insulin resistance, total cholesterol, fat accumulation, and cancer growth. Moreover, various natural products increase endometrial receptivity and fertility ability showing androgenic activities on productive factors and hormones. For example, Angelica keiskei powder and Astragalus mongholicus extract showed anti-infertility efficacies in males and females, respectively. On the other hand, adverse effects and acute toxicity of natural products were also reported. Tripterygium glycoside decreased fertility ability both in males and females. Results indicate that management of infertility with natural products could be beneficial with further clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effect.
Integration of Molecular Docking and In Vitro Studies: A Powerful Approach for Drug Discovery in Breast Cancer
Authors: Cava Claudia , Castiglioni Isabella
Published: October 2020

Molecular docking in the pharmaceutical industry is a powerful in silico approach for discovering novel therapies for unmet medical needs predicting drug–target interactions. It not only provides binding affinity between drugs and targets at the atomic level, but also elucidates the fundamental pharmacological properties of specific drugs. The purpose of this review was to illustrate newer and emergent uses of docking when combined with in vitro techniques for drug discovery in metastatic breast cancer. We grouped the selected articles into five main categories; namely, systematic repositioning of drugs, natural drugs, new synthesized molecules, combinations of drugs, and drug latentiation. We focused on new promising drugs that have a good affinity with their targets, thus inducing a favorable biological response. This review suggests that the integration of molecular docking and in vitro studies can accelerate cancer drug discovery showing a good consistency of the results between the two approaches.
Printability of the Screen-Printed Strain Sensor with Carbon Black/Silver Paste for Sensitive Wearable Electronics
Authors: Qi Xue , Ha Heebo , Hwang Byungil , Lim Sooman
Published: October 2020

Printing technology enables not only high-volume, multipurpose, low-impact, low-cost manufacturing, but also the introduction of flexible electronic devices, such as displays, actuators, and sensors, to a wide range of consumer markets. Consequently, in the past few decades, printed electronic products have attracted considerable interest. Although flexible printed electronic products are attracting increasing attention from the scientific and industrial communities, a systematic study on their sensing performance based on printability has not been reported so far. In this study, carbon black/Ag nanocomposites were utilized as pastes for a flexible wearable strain sensor. The effects of the rheological property of the pastes and the pattern dimensions of the printed electrodes on the sensor’s performance were investigated. Consequently, the printed sensor demonstrated a high gauge factor of 444.5 for an applied strain of 0.6% to 1.4% with a durability of 1000 cycles and a linearity of R2 = 0.9974. The sensor was also stable under tough environmental conditions.
Clinical Veterinary Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) Studies in Dogs with Head and Neck Cancer: Bridging the Gap between Translational and Clinical Studies
Authors: Schwint Amanda E. , Monti Hughes Andrea , Garabalino Marcela A. , Santa Cruz Gustavo A. , González Sara J. , Longhino Juan , Provenzano Lucas , Oña Paulina , Rao Monica , Cantarelli María de los Ángeles , Leiras Andrea , Olivera María Silvina , Trivillin Verónica A. , Alessandrini Paula , Brollo Fabricio , Boggio Esteban , Costa Hernan , Ventimiglia Romina , Binia Sergio , Pozzi Emiliano C. C. , Nievas Susana I. , Santa Cruz Iara S.
Published: October 2020

Translational Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) studies performed by our group and clinical BNCT studies worldwide have shown the therapeutic efficacy of BNCT for head and neck cancer. The present BNCT studies in veterinary patients with head and neck cancer were performed to optimize the therapeutic efficacy of BNCT, contribute towards exploring the role of BNCT in veterinary medicine, put in place technical aspects for an upcoming clinical trial of BNCT for head and neck cancer at the RA-6 Nuclear Reactor, and assess the feasibility of employing the existing B2 beam to treat large, deep-seated tumors. Five dogs with head and neck cancer with no other therapeutic option were treated with two applications of BNCT mediated by boronophenyl-alanine (BPA) separated by 3–5 weeks. Two to three portals per BNCT application were used to achieve a potentially therapeutic dose over the tumor without exceeding normal tissue tolerance. Clinical and Computed Tomography results evidenced partial tumor control in all cases, with slight-moderate mucositis, excellent life quality, and prolongation in the survival time estimated at recruitment. These exploratory studies show the potential value of BNCT in veterinary medicine and contribute towards initiating a clinical BNCT trial for head and neck cancer at the RA-6 clinical facility.
Tailoring the Health-Promoting Potential of Protein Hydrolysate Derived from Fish Wastes and Flavonoids from Yellow Onion Skins: From Binding Mechanisms to Microencapsulated Functional Ingredients
Authors: Grigore-Gurgu Leontina , Crăciunescu Oana , Aprodu Iuliana , Bolea Carmen Alina , Iosăgeanu Andreea , Petre Brîndușa Alina , Bahrim Gabriela Elena , Oancea Anca , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: October 2020

This study focuses on combining different bioprocessing tools in order to develop an in-depth engineering approach for enhancing the biological properties of two valuable food by-products, namely fish waste and yellow onion skins, in a single new bioactive formulation. Bone tissue from phytophagous carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) was used to obtain bioactive peptides through papain-assisted hydrolysis. The peptides with molecular weight lower than 3 kDa were characterized through MALDI-ToF/ToF mass spectrometry and bioinformatics tools. As a prerequisite for microencapsulation, the ability of these peptides to bind the flavonoids extracted from yellow onion skins was further tested through fluorescence quenching measurements. The results obtained demonstrate a considerable binding potency with a binding value of 106 and also the presence of one single or one class of binding site during the interaction process of flavonoids with peptides, in which the main forces involved are hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions. In the freeze-drying microencapsulation process, an efficiency for total flavonoids of 88.68 ± 2.37% was obtained, considering the total flavonoids and total polyphenols from the powder of 75.72 ± 2.58 quercetin equivalents/g dry weight (DW) and 97.32 ± 2.80 gallic acid equivalents/g DW, respectively. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test on the L929 cell line cultivated in the presence of different concentrations of microencapsulated samples (0.05–1.5 mg/mL) proved no sign of cytotoxicity, the cell viability being over 80% for all the samples.
Harnessing Mechanosensation in Next Generation Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering
Authors: Garoffolo Gloria , Ferrari Silvia , Rizzi Stefano , Barbuto Marianna , Bernava Giacomo , Pesce Maurizio
Published: October 2020

The ability of the cells to sense mechanical cues is an integral component of ”social” cell behavior inside tissues with a complex architecture. Through ”mechanosensation” cells are in fact able to decrypt motion, geometries and physical information of surrounding cells and extracellular matrices by activating intracellular pathways converging onto gene expression circuitries controlling cell and tissue homeostasis. Additionally, only recently cell mechanosensation has been integrated systematically as a crucial element in tissue pathophysiology. In the present review, we highlight some of the current efforts to assess the relevance of mechanical sensing into pathology modeling and manufacturing criteria for a next generation of cardiovascular tissue implants.
Alternative Microstructural Measures to Complement Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Migraine Studies with Standard MRI Acquisition
Authors: Planchuelo-Gómez Álvaro , García-Azorín David , Guerrero Ángel L. , de Luis-García Rodrigo , Rodríguez Margarita , Aja-Fernández Santiago
Published: October 2020

The white matter state in migraine has been investigated using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measures, but results using this technique are conflicting. To overcome DTI measures, we employed ensemble average diffusion propagator measures obtained with apparent measures using reduced acquisitions (AMURA). The AMURA measures were return-to-axis (RTAP), return-to-origin (RTOP) and return-to-plane probabilities (RTPP). Tract-based spatial statistics was used to compare fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity and radial diffusivity from DTI, and RTAP, RTOP and RTPP, between healthy controls, episodic migraine and chronic migraine patients. Fifty healthy controls, 54 patients with episodic migraine and 56 with chronic migraine were assessed. Significant differences were found between both types of migraine, with lower axial diffusivity values in 38 white matter regions and higher RTOP values in the middle cerebellar peduncle in patients with a chronic migraine (p < 0.05 family-wise error corrected). Significantly lower RTPP values were found in episodic migraine patients compared to healthy controls in 24 white matter regions (p < 0.05 family-wise error corrected), finding no significant differences using DTI measures. The white matter microstructure is altered in a migraine, and in chronic compared to episodic migraine. AMURA can provide additional results with respect to DTI to uncover white matter alterations in migraine.
Dynamic Causal Modelling of the Reduced Habituation to Painful Stimuli in Migraine: An EEG Study
Authors: Bassez Iege , Van de Steen Frederik , Ricci Katia , Vecchio Eleonora , Gentile Eleonora , Marinazzo Daniele , de Tommaso Marina
Published: October 2020

A consistent finding in migraine is reduced cortical habituation to repetitive sensory stimuli. This study investigated brain dynamics underlying the atypical habituation to painful stimuli in interictal migraine. We investigated modulations in effective connectivity between the sources of laser evoked potentials (LEPs) from a first to final block of trigeminal LEPs using dynamic causal modelling (DCM) in a group of 23 migraine patients and 20 controls. Additionally, we looked whether the strength of dynamical connections in the migrainous brain is initially different. The examined network consisted of the secondary somatosensory areas (lS2, rS2), insulae (lIns, rIns), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), contralateral primary somatosensory cortex (lS1), and a hidden source assumed to represent the thalamus. Results suggest that migraine patients show initially heightened communication between lS1 and the thalamus, in both directions. After repetitive stimulations, connection strengths from the thalamus to all somatosensory areas habituated in controls whereas this was not apparent in migraine. Together with further abnormalities in initial connectivity strengths and modulations between the thalamus and the insulae, these results are in line with altered thalamo-cortical network dynamics in migraine. Group differences in connectivity from and to the insulae including interhemispheric connections, suggests an important role of the insulae.
Blockage of Store-Operated Ca2+ Influx by Synta66 is Mediated by Direct Inhibition of the Ca2+ Selective Orai1 Pore
Authors: Waldherr Linda , Tiffner Adela , Mishra Deepti , Sallinger Matthias , Schober Romana , Frischauf Irene , Schmidt Tony , Handl Verena , Sagmeister Peter , Köckinger Manuel , Derler Isabella , Üçal Muammer , Bonhenry Daniel , Patz Silke , Schindl Rainer
Published: October 2020

The Ca2+ sensor STIM1 and the Ca2+ channel Orai1 that form the store-operated Ca2+ (SOC) channel complex are key targets for drug development. Selective SOC inhibitors are currently undergoing clinical evaluation for the treatment of auto-immune and inflammatory responses and are also deemed promising anti-neoplastic agents since SOC channels are linked with enhanced cancer cell progression. Here, we describe an investigation of the site of binding of the selective inhibitor Synta66 to the SOC channel Orai1 using docking and molecular dynamics simulations, and live cell recordings. Synta66 binding was localized to the extracellular site close to the transmembrane (TM)1 and TM3 helices and the extracellular loop segments, which, importantly, are adjacent to the Orai1-selectivity filter. Synta66-sensitivity of the Orai1 pore was, in fact, diminished by both Orai1 mutations affecting Ca2+ selectivity and permeation of Na+ in the absence of Ca2+. Synta66 also efficiently blocked SOC in three glioblastoma cell lines but failed to interfere with cell viability, division and migration. These experiments provide new structural and functional insights into selective drug inhibition of the Orai1 Ca2+ channel by a high-affinity pore blocker.
Regulation of NFκB Signalling by Ubiquitination: A Potential Therapeutic Target in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Authors: Morgan Ethan L. , Chen Zhong , Van Waes Carter
Published: October 2020

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, with over 600,000 cases per year. The primary causes for HNSCC include smoking and alcohol consumption, with an increasing number of cases attributed to infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The treatment options for HNSCC currently include surgery, radiotherapy, and/or platinum-based chemotherapeutics. Cetuximab (targeting EGFR) and Pembrolizumab (targeting PD-1) have been approved for advanced stage, recurrent, and/or metastatic HNSCC. Despite these advances, whilst HPV+ HNSCC has a 3-year overall survival (OS) rate of around 80%, the 3-year OS for HPV− HNSCC is still around 55%. Aberrant signal activation of transcription factor NFκB plays an important role in the pathogenesis and therapeutic resistance of HNSCC. As an important mediator of inflammatory signalling and the immune response to pathogens, the NFκB pathway is tightly regulated to prevent chronic inflammation, a key driver of tumorigenesis. Here, we discuss how NFκB signalling is regulated by the ubiquitin pathway and how this pathway is deregulated in HNSCC. Finally, we discuss the current strategies available to target the ubiquitin pathway and how this may offer a potential therapeutic benefit in HNSCC.
Main Strategies for the Identification of Neoantigens
Authors: Gopanenko Alexander V. , Kosobokova Ekaterina N. , Kosorukov Vyacheslav S.
Published: October 2020

Genetic instability of tumors leads to the appearance of numerous tumor-specific somatic mutations that could potentially result in the production of mutated peptides that are presented on the cell surface by the MHC molecules. Peptides of this kind are commonly called neoantigens. Their presence on the cell surface specifically distinguishes tumors from healthy tissues. This feature makes neoantigens a promising target for immunotherapy. The rapid evolution of high-throughput genomics and proteomics makes it possible to implement these techniques in clinical practice. In particular, they provide useful tools for the investigation of neoantigens. The most valuable genomic approach to this problem is whole-exome sequencing coupled with RNA-seq. High-throughput mass-spectrometry is another option for direct identification of MHC-bound peptides, which is capable of revealing the entire MHC-bound peptidome. Finally, structure-based predictions could significantly improve the understanding of physicochemical and structural features that affect the immunogenicity of peptides. The development of pipelines combining such tools could improve the accuracy of the peptide selection process and decrease the required time. Here we present a review of the main existing approaches to investigating the neoantigens and suggest a possible ideal pipeline that takes into account all modern trends in the context of neoantigen discovery.
Need for NAD+: Focus on Striated Muscle Laminopathies
Authors: Cardoso Déborah , Muchir Antoine
Published: October 2020

Laminopathies are a heterogeneous group of rare diseases caused by genetic mutations in the LMNA gene, encoding A-type lamins. A-type lamins are nuclear envelope proteins which associate with B-type lamins to form the nuclear lamina, a meshwork underlying the inner nuclear envelope of differentiated cells. The laminopathies include lipodystrophies, progeroid phenotypes and striated muscle diseases. Research on striated muscle laminopathies in the recent years has provided novel perspectives on the role of the nuclear lamina and has shed light on the pathological consequences of altered nuclear lamina. The role of altered nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in the physiopathology of striated muscle laminopathies has been recently highlighted. Here, we have summarized these findings and reviewed the current knowledge about NAD+ alteration in striated muscle laminopathies, providing potential therapeutic approaches.
An Integrative Study Showing the Adaptation to Sub-Optimal Growth Conditions of Natural Populations of Arabidopsis thaliana: A Focus on Cell Wall Changes
Authors: Duruflé Harold , Ranocha Philippe , Balliau Thierry , Zivy Michel , Albenne Cécile , Burlat Vincent , Déjean Sébastien , Jamet Elisabeth , Dunand Christophe
Published: October 2020

In the global warming context, plant adaptation occurs, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly described. Studying natural variation of the model plant Arabidopsisthaliana adapted to various environments along an altitudinal gradient should contribute to the identification of new traits related to adaptation to contrasted growth conditions. The study was focused on the cell wall (CW) which plays major roles in the response to environmental changes. Rosettes and floral stems of four newly-described populations collected at different altitudinal levels in the Pyrenees Mountains were studied in laboratory conditions at two growth temperatures (22 vs. 15 °C) and compared to the well-described Col ecotype. Multi-omic analyses combining phenomics, metabolomics, CW proteomics, and transcriptomics were carried out to perform an integrative study to understand the mechanisms of plant adaptation to contrasted growth temperature. Different developmental responses of rosettes and floral stems were observed, especially at the CW level. In addition, specific population responses are shown in relation with their environment and their genetics. Candidate genes or proteins playing roles in the CW dynamics were identified and will deserve functional validation. Using a powerful framework of data integration has led to conclusions that could not have been reached using standard statistical approaches.
Fluid Morphologies Governed by the Competition of Viscous Dissipation and Phase Separation in a Radial Hele-Shaw Flow
Authors: Suzuki Ryuta X. , Takeda Risa , Nagatsu Yuichiro , Mishra Manoranjan , Ban Takahiko
Published: October 2020

The displacement of a less viscous fluid by a more viscous fluid in a radial Hele-Shaw cell makes a circular pattern because the interface is hydrodynamically stable in this condition. Very recently, it has been experimentally reported that the hydrodynamically stable displacement in a partially miscible system induces fingering patterns while stable circular patterns are made at fully miscible and immiscible systems. The fingering instability in the partially miscible system results from complex and entangled elements involving viscous dissipation, molecular diffusion, and phase separation. The analyzing mechanism requires a quantitative relationship between the hydrodynamic interfacial fingering patterns and underlying physicochemical properties. Here, we experimentally investigated the change in fluid patterns formed by the progression of phase separation in the partially miscible systems and categorized them into three patterns: finger-like pattern, annular-like pattern, and circular pattern. Moreover, we propose the mechanism of the pattern formation by an interfacial tension measurement and evaluate the patterns by modified capillary number and newly defined body force ratio, Bf. Our analysis revealed that the deformation index of the pattern can be expressed as a function of Bf on a single curve regardless of the miscibility.
Defects and Their Elemental Distributions in a Crept Co-Al-W-Ti-Ta Single Crystal Superalloy
Authors: Zhai Yadi , Yang Luyan , Xue Fei , Chen Yanhui , Mao Shengcheng
Published: October 2020

The structure of defects and their elemental distributions is the decisive factor to metal’s mechanical properties. The γ/γ′ structure Co-Al-W-based superalloy is a potential replicable alloy to Ni-based superalloys that have been used for a long time. Revealing the microstructure of a defect induced by high-temperature crept provides direct clues for the alloy development. Our work revealed the high-resolution, high-angle annular dark field images and corresponding elemental distributions on crept defects. Defects in the γ phase mainly contain dislocation networks, while the γ′ phase contains lots of stacking faults and anti-phase boundaries. The results indicate that dislocation networks and stacking faults contain more weight elements than the base γ′ phase, while anti-phase boundaries contain more light elements. Disclosing atomic structure and its elemental distributions gives direct evidence for alloy design and further high-temperature mechanical improvement.
Development of a Prototype Lateral Flow Immunoassay for Rapid Detection of Staphylococcal Protein A in Positive Blood Culture Samples
Authors: Srisrattakarn Arpasiri , Tippayawat Patcharaporn , Chanawong Aroonwadee , Tavichakorntrakool Ratree , Daduang Jureerut , Wonglakorn Lumyai , Lulitanond Aroonlug
Published: October 2020

Bloodstream infection (BSI) is a major cause of mortality in hospitalized patients worldwide. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common pathogens found in BSI. The conventional workflow is time consuming. Therefore, we developed a lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) for rapid detection of S. aureus-protein A in positive blood culture samples. A total of 90 clinical isolates including 58 S. aureus and 32 non-S. aureus were spiked in simulated blood samples. The antigens were extracted by a simple boiling method and diluted before being tested using the developed LFIA strips. The results were readable by naked eye within 15 min. The sensitivity of the developed LFIA was 87.9% (51/58) and the specificity was 93.8% (30/32). When bacterial colonies were used in the test, the LFIA provided higher sensitivity and specificity (94.8% and 100%, respectively). The detection limit of the LFIA was 107 CFU/mL. Initial evaluation of the LFIA in 20 positive blood culture bottles from hospitals showed 95% agreement with the routine methods. The LFIA is a rapid, simple and highly sensitive method. No sophisticated equipment is required. It has potential for routine detection particularly in low resource settings, contributing an early diagnosis that facilitates effective treatment and reduces disease progression.
The Effects of Processing and Preservation Technologies on Meat Quality: Sensory and Nutritional Aspects
Authors: Gómez Inmaculada , Janardhanan Rasmi , Ibañez Francisco C. , Beriain María José
Published: October 2020

This review describes the effects of processing and preservation technologies on sensory and nutritional quality of meat products. Physical methods such as dry aging, dry curing, high pressure processing (HPP), conventional cooking, sous-vide cooking and 3D printing are discussed. Chemical and biochemical methods as fermentation, smoking, curing, marination, and reformulation are also reviewed. Their technical limitations, due to loss of sensory quality when nutritional value of these products is improved, are presented and discussed. There are several studies focused either on the nutritional or sensorial quality of the processed meat products, but more studies with an integration of the two aspects are necessary. Combination of different processing and preservation methods leads to better results of sensory quality; thus, further research in combinations of different techniques are necessary, such that the nutritional value of meat is not compromised.
Inferring Evolutionary Timescales without Independent Timing Information: An Assessment of “Universal” Insect Rates to Calibrate a Collembola (Hexapoda) Molecular Clock
Authors: Katz Aron D.
Published: October 2020

Previous estimates of nucleotide substitution rates are routinely applied as secondary or “universal” molecular clock calibrations for estimating evolutionary timescales in groups that lack independent timing information. A major limitation of this approach is that rates can vary considerably among taxonomic groups, but the assumption of rate constancy is rarely evaluated prior to using secondary rate calibrations. Here I evaluate whether an insect mitochondrial DNA clock is appropriate for estimating timescales in Collembola—a group of insect-like arthropods characterized by high levels of cryptic diversity. Relative rates of substitution in cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) were inferred via Bayesian analysis across a topologically constrained Hexapod phylogeny using a relaxed molecular clock model. Rates for Collembola did not differ significantly from the average rate or from the rates estimated for most other groups (25 of 30), suggesting that (1) their apparent cryptic diversity cannot be explained by accelerated rates of molecular evolution and (2) clocks calibrated using “universal” insect rates may be appropriate for estimating evolutionary timescales in this group. However, of the 31 groups investigated, 10 had rates that deviated significantly from the average (6 higher, 4 lower), underscoring the need for caution and careful consideration when applying secondary insect rate calibrations. Lastly, this study exemplifies a relatively simple approach for evaluating rate constancy within a taxonomic group to determine whether the use of secondary rates are appropriate for molecular clock calibrations.
Characterization of Hormone-Dependent Pathways in Six Human Prostate-Cancer Cell Lines: A Gene-Expression Study
Authors: Franko Andras , Berti Lucia , Guirguis Alke , Hennenlotter Jörg , Wagner Robert , Scharpf Marcus O. , de Angelis Martin Hrabĕ , Wißmiller Katharina , Lickert Heiko , Stenzl Arnulf , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Peter Andreas , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Lutz Stefan Z. , Heni Martin
Published: October 2020

Prostate cancer (PCa), the most incident cancer in men, is tightly regulated by endocrine signals. A number of different PCa cell lines are commonly used for in vitro experiments, but these are of diverse origin, and have very different cell-proliferation rates and hormone-response capacities. By analyzing the gene-expression pattern of main hormone pathways, we systematically compared six PCa cell lines and parental primary cells. We compared these cell lines (i) with each other and (ii) with PCa tissue samples from 11 patients. We found major differences in the gene-expression levels of androgen, insulin, estrogen, and oxysterol signaling between PCa tissue and cell lines, and between different cell lines. Our systematic characterization gives researchers a solid basis to choose the appropriate PCa cell model for the hormone pathway of interest.
Natural Stones Used in the Orsi-Marconi Palace Façade (Bologna): A Petro-Mineralogical Characterization
Authors: Marrocchino Elena , Telloli Chiara , Pedrini Martina , Vaccaro Carmela
Published: October 2020

Ancient buildings are important components of the Italian Cultural Heritage and, since the Etruscan Period, Bologna (north-eastern Italy) has always been one of the most flourishing cities both culturally and economically in the Italian and European panorama. The Orsi-Marconi Palace in Bologna presents a monumental façade decorated with many sandstone ornaments of the 16th century. Different samples from different parts of the façade of the building were collected and firstly characterised by macroscopic observations to determine the structural aspect. A petro-mineralogical study on the surfaces of the samples was conducted using a stereomicroscope and Optical Transmitted Light Polarized Microscopy. In addition, X-Ray Fluorescence and X-Ray Powder Diffractometer analyses were carried out to better understand the mineralogical composition of the sandstone materials used and the degradation products from the façades of this historical building. The aim of this work was to better understand how to revalue the sandstone decorations severely affected by deterioration phenomena.
Back Pain Related with Age, Anthropometric Variables, Sagittal Spinal Curvatures, Hamstring Extensibility, Physical Activity and Health Related Quality of Life in Male and Female High School Students
Authors: González-Gálvez Noelia , Vaquero-Cristóbal Raquel , López-Vivancos Abraham , Albaladejo-Saura Mario , Marcos-Pardo Pablo Jorge
Published: October 2020

Spinal pain (SP) is widely extended among adolescents. The origin of SP can be multifactorial; thus, the present study aimed to estimate the prevalence and risk of SP in high school students and to determine the differences in sagittal spinal curvatures and pelvic tilt, hamstring extensibility, age, anthropometric variables and healthy lifestyle habits dependent on SP between sexes. Two hundred seventy-three teenagers took part in this cross-sectional study. Age, sagittal spinal curvatures, hamstring extensibility, physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, anthropometric variables and health related quality of life (HRQL) were recorded. SP was reported by 16.12% of adolescents. Differences were observed in the HRQL according to SP (p < 0.05). Participants without SP were less sedentary (22.12%) and younger (13.10 years old) than participants with SP (40.91% and 13.66, respectively) (p < 0.05). A logistic regression model showed that both variables were significantly collinear (VIF = 1.01; Durbin-Watson = 2.10). Subjects with low back pain (LBP) had a higher weight, body max index, and hip girth than subjects without pain (p < 0.05). A misalignment in the lumbar spine was associated with LBP for males (Cramer’s V = 0.204, p = 0.022). In conclusion, adolescents with SP were older and had a lower HRQL in all dimensions. SP could be predicted according to age and sedentary habits.
Health Risk, Functional Markers and Cognitive Status in Institutionalized Older Adults: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Pedrero-Chamizo Raquel , Albers Ulrike , Palacios Gonzalo , Pietrzik Klaus , Meléndez Agustín , González-Gross Marcela
Published: October 2020

A Follow-up of vitamin B12 and lipids status is essential in older people, being closely related to non-communicable diseases. Their relationships with cognitive and physical status are not clear. The aim was to analyze the evolution of vitamin B12 and related parameters, lipid and hematological profiles, and their relationships with cognitive and physical status among institutionalized elderly. Sixty residents, ranged from 62 to 99, were evaluated. Biomarkers (vitamin B12 and related parameters, lipid and hematological profiles), functional capacity (handgrip, arm and leg strength), and cognitive status (Mini-Mental State Examination) were evaluated four times at 4-month intervals. At the beginning of the study, 63% and 70% of the sample showed abnormal homocysteine and folate values, respectively. At the end of the year, abnormal homocysteine increased to 68%, abnormal folate values decreased to 50%. Throughout the year, serum folate showed a significant increase (14.9 vs. 16.3 nmol/L), (p < 0.05). Serum cobalamin (299 vs. 273 pmol/L). HDL-cholesterol (49.9 vs. 47.0 mg/dL) and triglyceride levels (102.4 vs. 123.2 mg/dL) showed a significant decrease and increase respectively in mean values (all p < 0.05). Serum cobalamin and HDL-cholesterol were the most important biomarkers associated with cognitive function (both p < 0.05). The most relevant biomarkers associated with poor physical strength depending on the body part analyzed were low concentrations of HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1, and albumin (all p < 0.05). The evolution of lipid biomarkers, their significance with cognitive values, and association with handgrip, point to the importance of the handgrip measurement, a very simple test, as an important health marker. Both serum albumin and physical strength are important health markers in older people.
The Construction and Validation of a Sustainable Tourism Development Evaluation Model
Authors: Chen Han-Shen
Published: October 2020

As climate change, food crises, sustainable development, and ecological conservation gain traction, the revival of traditional fishing villages has become an important governmental policy for Taiwan. To reduce cognitive bias, the choice experiment method was applied to construct an attribute function in fishing village tourism coupled with virtual reality headsets. Conditional logit and random parameter logit models were employed to estimate tourism utility functions. Moreover, a latent class model was employed to determine whether hetxerogeneous preferences regarding fishing village travel existed. The sampling sites were distributed across the Dongshi area. In total, 612 tourists and 170 local residents were interviewed. After incomplete questionnaires were removed, 816 valid questionnaires remained, representing 95.83% of the total questionnaires. Older residents and residents with shorter histories of education were inclined to increase land development and utilization by reducing natural landscapes; tourists preferred preserving landscapes and preventing land development. Residents with more education believed that local landscape imagery was essential. Tourists who were more educated, with high incomes, and those who were older believed that a selling platform incorporating local industries and products within the villages would be attractive for other tourists.
Process Evaluation of a Community-Based Microbial Larviciding Intervention for Malaria Control in Rural Tanzania
Authors: Berlin Rubin Nina , Mboera Leonard E.G. , Lesser Adriane , Miranda Marie Lynn , Kramer Randall
Published: October 2020

Microbial larviciding can be an effective component of integrated vector management malaria control schemes, although it is not commonly implemented. Moreover, quality control and evaluation of intervention activities are essential to evaluate the potential of community-based larviciding interventions. We conducted a process evaluation of a larval source management intervention in rural Tanzania where local staff were employed to apply microbial larvicide to mosquito breeding habitats with the aim of long-term reductions in malaria transmission. We developed a logic model to guide the process evaluation and then established quantitative indicators to measure intervention success. Quantitative analysis of intervention reach, exposure, and fidelity was performed to assess larvicide application, and interviews with larviciding staff were reviewed to provide context to quantitative results. Results indicate that the intervention was successful in terms of reach, as staff applied microbial larvicide at 80% of identified mosquito breeding habitats. However, the dosage of larvicide applied was sufficient to ensure larval elimination at only 26% of sites, which does not meet the standard set for intervention fidelity. We propose that insufficient training and protocol adaptation, environment and resource issues, and human error contributed to low larvicide application rates. This demonstrates how several small, context-specific details in sum can result in meaningful differences between intervention blueprint and execution. These findings may serve the design of other larval source management interventions by demonstrating the value of additional training, supervision, and measurement and evaluation of protocol adherence.
SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) Pandemic Lockdown Influences Nature-Based Recreational Activity: The Case of Birders
Authors: Randler Christoph , Tryjanowski Piotr , Jokimäki Jukka , Kaisanlahti-Jokimäki Marja-Liisa , Staller Naomi
Published: October 2020

The new corona virus infection SARS-CoV2 which was later renamed COVID-19 is a pandemic affecting public health. The fear and the constraints imposed to control the pandemic may correspondingly influence leisure activities, such as birding, which is the practice of observing birds based on visual and acoustic cues. Birders are people who carry out birding observations around the globe and contribute to the massive data collection in citizen science projects. Contrasting to earlier COVID-19 studies, which have concentrated on clinical, pathological, and virological topics, this study focused on the behavioral changes of birders. A total of 4484 questionnaire survey responses from 97 countries were received. The questionnaire had an open-ended style. About 85% of respondents reported that COVID-19 has changed their birding behavior. The most significant change in birdwatchers’ behavior was related to the geographic coverage of birding activities, which became more local. People focused mostly on yard birding. In total, 12% of respondents (n = 542 cases) reported having more time for birding, whereas 8% (n = 356 cases) reported having less time for birding. Social interactions decreased since respondents, especially older people, changed their birding behavior toward birding alone or with their spouse. Women reported more often than men that they changed to birding alone or with their spouse, and women also reported more often about canceled fieldtrips or society meetings. Respondents from higher developed countries reported that they spend currently more time for birding, especially for birding alone or with their spouse, and birding at local hotspots. Our study suggests that long lockdowns with strict regulations may severely impact on leisure activities. In addition, a temporal and spatial shift in birding due to the pandemic may influence data quality in citizen science projects. As nature-based recreation will be directed more toward nearby sites, environmental management resources and actions need to be directed to sites that are located near the users, e.g., in urban and suburban areas. The results can be applied with caution to other nature-based recreational activities.
Social Structure in a Roma Settlement: Comparison over Time
Authors: Kozubik Michal , Filakovska Bobakova Daniela , Rosinsky Rastislav , Mojtova Martina , Tvrdon Miroslav , van Dijk Jitse P.
Published: October 2020

The objective of the present study was to compare the social structure and internal establishment of a Roma community in two historical periods: in the 18th century and the present. We analysed Samuel Augustini ab Hortis’s work, “Von dem Heutigen Zustände, Sonderbaren Sitten und Lebensart, Wie Auch von Denen Übrigen Eigenschaften und Umständen der Zigeuner in Ungarn” (On the Contemporary Situation, Distinctive Manners and Way of Life, as Well as the Other Characteristics and Circumstances of Gypsies in Greater Hungary), written in 1775–1776. Using content analysis, we subsequently compared his findings with our recent data from analogous qualitative research in a geographically-defined area of north-eastern Slovakia, the same region in which Augustini lived. Data collection was intensely conducted in 2012–2013 and once more in 2017–2019. The qualitative methods included direct observation, semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Four key informants and more than 70 participants collaborated in the study. The greatest difference we observed compared to the 18th century was the absence of a leader of the community, a “vajda”, whose status was taken over by a new social class of “entrepreneurs”. The most vulnerable group of the segregated and separated Roma communities are the “degesa”, the lowest social class. They face a phenomenon consisting of so-called triple marginalization: they live in one of the most underdeveloped regions of the country, they inhabit segregated settlements and they are excluded by their own ethnic group. The socioeconomic status of the richest classes has changed faces, while the socioeconomic status of the lowest has not. We found a misconception among helping professionals (e.g., social workers) regarding the homogeneity of the Roma community. This calls for more attention to the erroneous use of the ethnic-based approach in the helping professions.
State Involvement in LGBT+ Health and Social Support Issues in Canada
Authors: Mulé Nick J.
Published: October 2020

For the first time, the broad health issues, needs and concerns of LGBT+ people in Canada were taken up by the federal government’s Standing Committee on Health in 2019. The findings of their consultations with LGBT+ Canadians produced a report that at once captures the breadth of input received, and provides an opportunity for accountable state response to LGBT+ health needs in the form of research, education, policy, funding and programming, yet questions arise as to the socio-political approach that will ultimately be taken. This focus on the health of LGBT+ Canadians follows decades of grassroots and sometimes state-funded research on this very issue. This study undertook a critical content analysis, premised on the queer liberation theory of The Health of LGBTQIA2 Communities in Canada report issued by the Standing Committee on Health. Although the report, for the most part, covers a breadth of broad LGBT+ health issues (a noted shift from the predominance of HIV/AIDS), the depth to which the Standing Committee took up and absorbed such issues is far less apparent. The heavy emphasis on entry-level recommendations by which to take up important LGBT+ health issues undermines a more progressive, liberationist approach that would more effectively address these concerns.
Perceived Determinants of Children’s Inadequate Sleep Health. A Concept Mapping Study among Professionals
Authors: Belmon Laura S. , Brasser Fay B. , Busch Vincent , van Stralen Maartje M. , Harmsen Irene A. , Chinapaw Mai J. M.
Published: October 2020

An increasing number of children experience inadequate sleep, which negatively effects their health. To promote healthy sleep among children, it is essential to understand the underlying determinants. This online concept mapping study therefore explores potential determinants of children’s inadequate sleep as perceived by professionals with expertise in the sleep health of children aged 4–12 years. Participants (n = 27) were divided in three groups: (1) doctors (n = 9); (2) nurses (n = 11); (3) sleep experts (n = 7). Participants generated potential determinants (i.e., ideas) of children’s inadequate sleep. Subsequently, they sorted all ideas by relatedness and rated their importance. These data were analysed using multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. The results of all three groups were combined and validated by an additional group of professionals (n = 16). A large variety of perceived determinants were identified. The most important determinants perceived by all groups belonged to the categories psychosocial determinants (i.e., worrying, a change in daily life), daytime and evening activities (i.e., screen use before bedtime, stimulating game play before bedtime, inadequate amount of daytime physical activity), and pedagogical determinants (i.e., inconsistent sleep schedule, lack of a bedtime routine). These perspectives are valuable for future longitudinal studies on the determinants of children’s sleep and the development of future healthy sleep interventions.
Augmented Hemodynamic Responses in Obese Young Men during Dynamic Exercise: Role of the Muscle Metaboreflex
Authors: Lee Byung-Sun , Kim Kyung-Ae , Kim Jong-Kyung , Nho Hosung
Published: October 2020

Studies found that cardiovascular responses to exercise are enhanced in individuals with obesity and are associated with a greater cardiac output (CO) response compared to normal weight controls. However, the mechanisms underlying these altered responses during dynamic exercise are not clear. We investigated whether the cardiovascular responses mediated by the muscle metaboreflex (MMR) activation are augmented in obese men during both static and dynamic exercise. Twenty males (10 obese (OG) and 10 non-obese (NOG)) were studied. Changes in CO, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and total vascular conductance (TVC) were compared between the two groups during dynamic handgrip exercise (DHE), post-exercise muscular ischemia (PEMI), and dynamic exercise corresponding to 40%, 60% and 80% workloads. Subjects completed 2 min of DHE at 30% of MVC, followed by 2 min of PEMI. MAP, CO, and TVC responses to DHE and dynamic exercise were significantly higher in OG, whereas there were no differences during PEMI. Increases in CO and MAP during mild to heavy dynamic exercise were seen in both groups, but the changes in these variables were greater in the OG. There were no significant differences in TVC between the two groups. Compared to NOG, the augmented blood pressure response to DHE and dynamic exercise in OG was associated with a greater increase in CO. Thus, the augmented CO and MAP responses were not associated with the activation of the MMR. Consequently, additional factors specific to obesity, such as the mechanoreflex, may have been involved.