bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climatic Change Can Influence Species Diversity Patterns and Potential Habitats of Salicaceae Plants in China
Authors: Li Wenqing , Shi Mingming , Huang Yuan , Chen Kaiyun , Sun Hang , Chen Jiahui
Published: March 2019

Salicaceae is a family of temperate woody plants in the Northern Hemisphere that are highly valued, both ecologically and economically. China contains the highest species diversity of these plants. Despite their widespread human use, how the species diversity patterns of Salicaceae plants formed remains mostly unknown, and these may be significantly affected by global climate warming. Using past, present, and future environmental data and 2673 georeferenced specimen records, we first simulated the dynamic changes in suitable habitats and population structures of Salicaceae. Based on this, we next identified those areas at high risk of habitat loss and population declines under different climate change scenarios/years. We also mapped the patterns of species diversity by constructing niche models for 215 Salicaceae species, and assessed the driving factors affecting their current diversity patterns. The niche models showed Salicaceae family underwent extensive population expansion during the Last Inter Glacial period but retreated to lower latitudes during and since the period of the Last Glacial Maximum. Looking ahead, as climate warming intensifies, suitable habitats will shift to higher latitudes and those at lower latitudes will become less abundant. Finally, the western regions of China harbor the greatest endemism and species diversity of Salicaceae, which are significantly influenced by annual precipitation and mean temperature, ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation, and the anomaly of precipitation seasonality. From these results, we infer water–energy dynamic equilibrium and historical climate change are both the main factors likely regulating contemporary species diversity and distribution patterns. Nevertheless, this work also suggests that other, possibly interacting, factors (ambient energy, disturbance history, soil condition) influence the large-scale pattern of Salicaceae species diversity in China, making a simple explanation for it unlikely. Because Southwest China likely served as a refuge for Salicaceae species during the Last Glacial Maximum, it is a current hotspot for endemisms. Under predicted climate change, Salicaceae plants may well face higher risks to their persistence in southwest China, so efforts to support their in-situ conservation there are urgently needed.
Spatial and Temporal Calcium Signaling and Its Physiological Effects in Moso Bamboo under Drought Stress
Authors: Jing Xiong , Cai Chunju , Fan Shaohui , Wang Lujun , Zeng Xianli
Published: March 2019

Elevations in cytosolic free calcium concentration constitute a fundamental signal transduction mechanism in plants; however, the particular characteristics of calcium ion (Ca2+) signal occurrence in plants is still under debate. Little is known about how stimulus-specific Ca2+ signal fluctuations are generated. Therefore, we investigated the identity of the Ca2+ signal generation pathways, influencing factors, and the effects of the signaling network under drought stress on Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houz. Non-invasive micro testing and laser confocal microscopy technology were used as platforms to detect and record Ca2+ signaling in live root tip and leaf cells of P. edulis under drought stress. We found that Ca2+ signal intensity (absorption capacity) positively correlated with degree of drought stress in the P. edulis shoots, and that Ca2+ signals in different parts of the root tip of P. edulis were different when emitted in response to drought stress. This difference was reflected in the Ca2+ flux and in regional distribution of Ca2+. Extracellular Ca2+ transport requires the involvement of the plasma membrane Ca2+ channels, while abscisic acid (ABA) can activate the plasma membrane Ca2+ channels. Additionally, Ca2+ acted as the upstream signal of H2O2 in the signaling network of P. edulis under drought stress. Ca2+ was also involved in the signal transduction process of ABA, and ABA can promote the production of Ca2+ signals in P. edulis leaves. Our findings revealed the physiological role of Ca2+ in drought resistance of P. edulis. This study establishes a theoretical foundation for research on the response to Ca2+ signaling in P. edulis.
Preventive Effects of Different Fermentation Times of Shuidouchi on Diphenoxylate-Induced Constipation in Mice
Authors: Chen Lianhong , Zhang Jing , Suo Huayi , Wang Wei , Wang Hongwei , Zhang Yu , Hu Qiang , Zhao Xin , Li Jian
Published: March 2019

This study compares the prevention effects of Shuidouchi with different fermentation times on constipation in mice. Shuidouchi is a short-time fermented soybean product. By improving its processing technology, it can incur better biological activity and become a health food. The Shuidouchi-treated mice were evaluated using constipation-related kits, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and Western blot assays. After the mice were fed 72-h-fermented Shuidouchi (72-SDC) for 9 d, the defecation time to excrete the first black stool was lower than that of the control and 24-SDC and 48-SDC groups, but was much higher than that of the normal group. The gastrointestinal (GI) transit of the small intestine of the 72-SDC group was higher than that of the control and the 24-SDC and 48-SDC groups, but lower that of the normal group. Meanwhile, 72-SDC could significantly increase the levels of ghrelin, endothelin-1 (ET-1), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and acetylcholinesterase (AchE) in the serum of constipated mice compared to the levels in mice in the control group. Moreover, 72-SDC could raise c-Kit, stem cell factor (SCF), glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GNDF), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels, and reduce transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression levels in small-intestinal tissue compared to the levels in the control group. Meanwhile, 72-SDC also raised ghrelin mRNA expression in gastric tissue and transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) mRNA expression in colon tissue compared to the control group mice; these effects were stronger than those of 24-SDC and 48-SDC. Shuidouchi has good preventative effects on constipation and performs best when fermented for at least 72 h.
Native Colombian Fruits and Their by-Products: Phenolic Profile, Antioxidant Activity and Hypoglycaemic Potential
Authors: Loizzo Monica Rosa , Lucci Paolo , Núñez Oscar , Tundis Rosa , Balzano Michele , Frega Natale Giuseppe , Conte Lanfranco , Moret Sabrina , Filatova Daria , Moyano Encarnación , Pacetti Deborah
Published: March 2019

The phenols and fatty acids profile and in vitro antioxidant and hypoglycaemic activity of seed, peel, pulp or pulp plus seeds of Colombian fruits from Solanaceae and Passifloraceae families were investigated. Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC)-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS) revealed the presence of chlorogenic acid as dominant phenolic compound in Solanaceae samples. Based on the Relative Antioxidant Score (RACI) and Global Antioxidant Score (GAS) values, Solanum quitoense peel showed the highest antioxidant potential among Solanaceae samples while Passiflora tripartita fruits exhibited the highest antioxidant effects among Passifloraceae samples. P. ligularis seeds were the most active as hypoglycaemic agent with IC50 values of 22.6 and 24.8 μg/mL against α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. Considering that some of the most promising results were obtained by the processing waste portion, its use as functional ingredients should be considered for the development of nutraceutical products intended for patients with disturbance of glucose metabolism.
Poly[(N-acryloyl glycinamide)-co-(N-acryloyl l-alaninamide)] and Their Ability to Form Thermo-Responsive Hydrogels for Sustained Drug Delivery
Authors: Boustta Mahfoud , Vert Michel
Published: March 2019

In the presence of water, poly(N-acryloyl glycinamide) homopolymers form highly swollen hydrogels that undergo fast and reversible gel↔sol transitions on heating. According to the literature, the transition temperature depends on concentration and average molecular weight, and in the case of copolymers, composition and hydrophilic/hydrophobic character. In this article, we wish to introduce new copolymers made by free radical polymerization of mixtures of N-acryloyl glycinamide and of its analog optically active N-acryloyl l-alaninamide in various proportions. The N-acryloyl l-alaninamide monomer was selected in attempts to introduce hydrophobicity and chirality in addition to thermo-responsiveness of the Upper Critical Solubilization Temperature-type. The characterization of the resulting copolymers included solubility in solvents, dynamic viscosity in solution, Fourrier Transform Infrared, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, and Circular Dichroism spectra. Gel→sol transition temperatures were determined in phosphate buffer (pH = 7.4, isotonic to 320 mOsm/dm3). The release characteristics of hydrophilic Methylene Blue and hydrophobic Risperidone entrapped in poly(N-acryloyl glycinamide) and in two copolymers containing 50 and 75% of alanine-based units, respectively, were compared. It was found that increasing the content in N-acryloyl-alaninamide-based units increased the gel→sol transition temperature, decreased the gel consistency, and increased the release rate of Risperidone, but not that of Methylene Blue, with respect to homo poly(N-acryloyl glycinamide). The increase observed in the case of Risperidone appeared to be related to the hydrophobicity generated by alanine residues.
Population Genomics and Structure of the Critically Endangered Mariana Crow (Corvus kubaryi)
Authors: Cortes-Rodriguez Nandadevi , Campana Michael G. , Berry Lainie , Faegre Sarah , Derrickson Scott R. , Ha Renee Robinette , Dikow Rebecca B. , Rutz Christian , Fleischer Robert C.
Published: March 2019

The Mariana Crow, or Åga (Corvus kubaryi), is a critically endangered species (IUCN -International Union for Conservation of Nature), endemic to the islands of Guam and Rota in the Mariana Archipelago. It is locally extinct on Guam, and numbers have declined dramatically on Rota to a historical low of less than 55 breeding pairs throughout the island in 2013. Because of its extirpation on Guam and population decline on Rota, it is of critical importance to assess the genetic variation among individuals to assist ongoing recovery efforts. We conducted a population genomics analysis comparing the Guam and Rota populations and studied the genetic structure of the Rota population. We used blood samples from five birds from Guam and 78 birds from Rota. We identified 145,552 candidate single nucleotide variants (SNVs) from a genome sequence of an individual from Rota and selected a subset of these to develop an oligonucleotide in-solution capture assay. The Guam and Rota populations were genetically differentiated from each other. Crow populations sampled broadly across their range on Rota showed significant genetic structuring – a surprising result given the small size of this island and the good flight capabilities of the species. Knowledge of its genetic structure will help improve management strategies to help with its recovery.
Genome Sequencing Illustrates the Genetic Basis of the Pharmacological Properties of Gloeostereum incarnatum
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Peng Jingyu , Sun Lei , Bonito Gregory , Wang Jie , Cui Weijie , Fu Yongping , Li Yu
Published: March 2019

Gloeostereum incarnatum is a precious edible mushroom that is widely grown in Asia and known for its useful medicinal properties. Here, we present a high-quality genome of G. incarnatum using the single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing platform. The G. incarnatum genome, which is the first complete genome to be sequenced in the family Cyphellaceae, was 38.67 Mbp, with an N50 of 3.5 Mbp, encoding 15,251 proteins. Based on our phylogenetic analysis, the Cyphellaceae diverged ~174 million years ago. Several genes and gene clusters associated with lignocellulose degradation, secondary metabolites, and polysaccharide biosynthesis were identified in G. incarnatum, and compared with other medicinal mushrooms. In particular, we identified two terpenoid-associated gene clusters, each containing a gene encoding a sesterterpenoid synthase adjacent to a gene encoding a cytochrome P450 enzyme. These clusters might participate in the biosynthesis of incarnal, a known bioactive sesterterpenoid produced by G. incarnatum. Through a transcriptomic analysis comparing the G. incarnatum mycelium and fruiting body, we also demonstrated that the genes associated with terpenoid biosynthesis were generally upregulated in the mycelium, while those associated with polysaccharide biosynthesis were generally upregulated in the fruiting body. This study provides insights into the genetic basis of the medicinal properties of G. incarnatum, laying a framework for future characterization of bioactive proteins and pharmaceutical uses of this fungus.
Using Openly Accessible Resources to Strengthen Causal Inference in Epigenetic Epidemiology of Neurodevelopment and Mental Health
Authors: Walton Esther , Relton Caroline L. , Caramaschi Doretta
Published: March 2019

The recent focus on the role of epigenetic mechanisms in mental health has led to several studies examining the association of epigenetic processes with psychiatric conditions and neurodevelopmental traits. Some studies suggest that epigenetic changes might be causal in the development of the psychiatric condition under investigation. However, other scenarios are possible, e.g., statistical confounding or reverse causation, making it particularly challenging to derive conclusions on causality. In the present review, we examine the evidence from human population studies for a possible role of epigenetic mechanisms in neurodevelopment and mental health and discuss methodological approaches on how to strengthen causal inference, including the need for replication, (quasi-)experimental approaches and Mendelian randomization. We signpost openly accessible resources (e.g., “MR-Base” “EWAS catalog” as well as tissue-specific methylation and gene expression databases) to aid the application of these approaches.
Halobacterium salinarum virus ChaoS9, a Novel Halovirus Related to PhiH1 and PhiCh1
Authors: Dyall-Smith Mike , Palm Peter , Wanner Gerhard , Witte Angela , Oesterhelt Dieter , Pfeiffer Friedhelm
Published: March 2019

The unexpected lysis of a large culture of Halobacterium salinarum strain S9 was found to be caused by a novel myovirus, designated ChaoS9. Virus purification from the culture lysate revealed a homogeneous population of caudovirus-like particles. The viral genome is linear, dsDNA that is partially redundant and circularly permuted, has a unit length of 55,145 nt, a G + C% of 65.3, and has 85 predicted coding sequences (CDS) and one tRNA (Arg) gene. The left arm of the genome (0–28 kbp) encodes proteins similar in sequence to those from known caudoviruses and was most similar to myohaloviruses phiCh1 (host: Natrialba magadii) and phiH1 (host: Hbt. salinarum). It carries a tail-fiber gene module similar to the invertible modules present in phiH1 and phiCh1. However, while the tail genes of ChaoS9 were similar to those of phiCh1 and phiH1, the Mcp of ChaoS9 was most similar (36% aa identity) to that of Haloarcula hispanica tailed virus 1 (HHTV-1). Provirus elements related to ChaoS9 showed most similarity to tail/assembly proteins but varied in their similarity with head/assembly proteins. The right arm (29–55 kbp) of ChaoS9 encoded proteins involved in DNA replication (ParA, RepH, and Orc1) but the other proteins showed little similarity to those from phiH1, phiCh1, or provirus elements, and most of them could not be assigned a function. ChaoS9 is probably best classified within the genus Myohalovirus, as it shares many characteristics with phiH1 (and phiCh1), including many similar proteins. However, the head/assembly gene region appears to have undergone a recombination event, and the inferred proteins are different to those of phiH1 and phiCh1, including the major capsid protein. This makes the taxonomic classification of ChaoS9 more ambiguous. We also report a revised genome sequence and annotation of Natrialba virus phiCh1.
Innovating Shakespeare: The Politics of Technological Partnership in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s The Tempest (2016)
Authors: Borsuk Amy
Published: March 2019

This article examines the Royal Shakespeare Company’s (RSC) recent focus on digital ‘innovation’ by analysing the relationship between their emerging digital-focused business practices and digital performance practice for The Tempest (2016). To assess this relationship, I first review the socioeconomic context of 21st century neoliberal UK economic policy that encourages arts organisations such as the RSC to participate in innovative digital production practices. I follow with a definition and deconstruction of ‘innovation’ as a key term in UK economic policy. I then demonstrate how the RSC has strategically become involved in innovation practices throughout the 2010s. I will then analyse the digital, motion-capture performance practices the RSC developed in partnership with Intel and motion-capture studio The Imaginarium for The Tempest. In doing so, I will demonstrate that The Tempest serves to legitimise the RSC’s status as a competitor and collaborator in the wider digital economy.
Impact of The Affordable Care Act’s Elimination of Cost-Sharing on the Guideline-Concordant Utilization of Cancer Preventive Screenings in the United States Using Medical Expenditure Panel Survey
Authors: Bhandari Naleen Raj , Li Chenghui
Published: March 2019

Currently available evidence regarding the association of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) elimination of cost-sharing and the utilization of cancer screenings is mixed. We determined whether the ACA’s zero cost-sharing policy affected the guideline-concordant utilization of cancer screenings, comparing adults (≥21 years) from 2009 with 2011–2014 data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Study participants were categorized as: 21–64 years with any private insurance, ≥65 years with Medicare only, and 21–64 years uninsured, with a separate sample for each type of screening test. Adjusted weighted prevalence and prevalence ratios (PR (95%CI)) were estimated. In 2014 (vs. 2009), privately-insured women reported 2% (0.98 (0.97–0.99)) and 4% (0.96 (0.93–0.99)) reduction in use of Pap tests and mammography, respectively. Privately-insured non-Hispanic Asian women had 16% (0.84 (0.74–0.97)) reduction in mammography in 2014 (vs. 2009). In 2011 (vs. 2009), privately-insured and Medicare-only men reported 9% (1.09 (1.03–1.16)) and 13% (1.13 (1.02–1.25)) increases in colorectal cancer (CRC) screenings, respectively. Privately-insured women reported a 6–7% rise in 2013–2014 (vs. 2009), and Hispanic Medicare beneficiaries also reported 40–44%, a significant rise in 2011–2014 (vs. 2009), in the utilization of CRC screenings. While the guideline-concordant utilization of Pap tests and mammography declined in the post-ACA period, the elimination of cost-sharing appeared to have positively affected CRC screenings of privately-insured males, females, and Hispanic Medicare-only beneficiaries. Greater awareness about the zero cost-sharing policy may help in increasing the uptake of cancer screenings.
Use of Diatomaceous Earth as a Silica Supplement on Potted Ornamentals
Authors: Mills-Ibibofori Taylor , Dunn Bruce , Maness Niels , Payton Mark
Published: March 2019

The role of silica as a needed supplement in soilless media is gaining interest. This research studied the effects of diatomaceous earth as a supplement on growth and flower characteristics, physiology, and nutrient uptake in dahlia (Dahlia Cav. × hybrida ‘Dahlinova Montana’), black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta L. ‘Denver Daisy’), and daisy (Gerbera jamesonii L. ‘Festival Light Eye White Shades’). Plants were either well-watered at 10 centibars or water-stressed at 20 centibars. Silicon treatments included top-dressed at 20, 40, 60, and 80 g, or incorporated at 50, 100, 150, and 200 g, in Metro-Mix 360 media without silica plus a control and one treatment of new Metro-Mix 360 with silica already incorporated. Significant effects were seen from diatomaceous earth supplementation, irrigation, and interaction in all plants; growth and flower characteristics, leaf nutrient content, and tolerance to stress were improved by application of diatomaceous earth. An increase in leaf N, P, K, Mg, and Ca was observed for dahlia ‘Dahlinova Montana’ and black-eyed Susan ‘Denver Daisy’. Transpiration was maintained in all three species due to silica supplementation under water-stress. Metro-Mix with silica was similar to the Metro-mix without silica and equivalent to most treatments with supplemental silica for all three species.
Sanitation in Rural India: Exploring the Associations between Dwelling Space and Household Latrine Ownership
Authors: Jain Anoop , Fernald Lia C.H. , Smith Kirk R. , Subramanian S.V.
Published: March 2019

In 2017, the Joint Monitoring Programme estimated that 520 million people in India were defecating in the open every day. This is despite efforts made by the government, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and multilaterals to improve latrine coverage throughout India. We hypothesize that this might be because current interventions focus mostly on individual-level determinants, such as attitudes and beliefs, instead of considering all possible social determinants of latrine ownership. Given this, we ask two questions: what is the association between the amount of dwelling space owned by households in rural India and their likelihood of toilet ownership and what proportion of the variation in household latrine ownership is attributable to villages and states? We used multilevel modeling and found significant associations between the amount of household dwelling space and the likelihood of latrine ownership. Furthermore, considerable variation in latrine ownership is attributable to villages and states, suggesting that additional research is required to elucidate the contextual effects of villages and states on household latrine ownership. Thus, sanitation interventions should consider household dwelling space and village and state context as important social determinants of latrine ownership in rural India. Doing so could bolster progress towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.
Research on the Influence Mechanism of Rational Consumers’ Food Safety Supervision Satisfaction
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Diao Hanyu , Tou Lulu
Published: March 2019

As emerging food safety incidents have gained widespread concerns, research on consumers’ attitudes towards this issue is crucial to create effective solutions. To this end, in accordance with relevant data of consumers in 13 cities with subordinate districts, Jiangsu province, this paper divided different consumer groups by their experience so as to study their degree of satisfaction towards food safety and corresponding influencing factors. According to the descriptive statistics and the building of the cumulative logistic regression model, the results therefrom showed that consumers with direct or indirect experience have separate attitudes towards food safety which cannot be changed by changing consumers’ personal characteristics. Moreover, the two groups are divided in their demands in food production and consumption along with exceptions on policy implementation, etc. Finally, suggestions to improve consumers’ satisfaction are given in at the end of the paper.
Handgrip Strength and All-Cause Mortality in Middle-Aged and Older Koreans
Authors: Bae Eun-Jung , Park Na-Jin , Sohn Hae-Sook , Kim Yun-Hee
Published: March 2019

Aging-related decline in handgrip strength has been associated with adverse functional and metabolic morbidity and mortality. Korea is one of the fastest aging countries, and the prospective relationship of handgrip strength with all-cause mortality in Korean adults has not been studied. We conducted a prospective observation study to examine whether baseline handgrip strength predicted mortality over eight years of follow-ups in Korean adults aged 45 years or older. We analyzed the nationwide survey data based on 9393 Korean adults (mean age of 61 ± 10.7 years) from the 2006–2014 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging. The mean handgrip strength values measured using a dynamometer, and were divided into quartiles for each gender. Cox models were conducted in order to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) of all-cause mortality with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in relation to handgrip strength adjusting for covariates. There was a robust independent relationship between a weaker handgrip strength and higher all-cause mortality in both women and men, adjusting for selected covariates (e.g., age, income, smoking, exercise, and comorbidities). Compared to the strongest quartile (i.e., reference), women and men in the weakest group had higher HRs of mortality, 2.5 (95% CI: 1.7–3.8) vs. 2.6 (95% CI: 1.8–3.9), respectively. The robust independent relationships between weaker handgrip strength and higher all-cause mortality found in the study suggest that simply assessing and monitoring the handgrip strength during adulthood demonstrates great potentials for the public health of aging populations, and protects against premature death in Korean adults.
Comparison of Frequentist and Bayesian Generalized Additive Models for Assessing the Association between Daily Exposure to Fine Particles and Respiratory Mortality: A Simulation Study
Authors: Fang Xin , Fang Bo , Wang Chunfang , Xia Tian , Bottai Matteo , Fang Fang , Cao Yang
Published: March 2019

Objective: To compare the performance of frequentist and Bayesian generalized additive models (GAMs) in terms of accuracy and precision for assessing the association between daily exposure to fine particles and respiratory mortality using simulated data based on a real time-series study. Methods: In our study, we examined the estimates from a fully Bayesian GAM using simulated data based on a genuine time-series study on fine particles with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) and respiratory deaths conducted in Shanghai, China. The simulation was performed by multiplying the observed daily death with a random error. The underlying priors for Bayesian analysis are estimated using the real world time-series data. We also examined the sensitivity of Bayesian GAM to the choice of priors and to true parameter. Results: The frequentist GAM and Bayesian GAM show similar means and variances of the estimates of the parameters of interest. However, the estimates from Bayesian GAM show relatively more fluctuation, which to some extent reflects the uncertainty inherent in Bayesian estimation. Conclusions: Although computationally intensive, Bayesian GAM would be a better solution to avoid potentially over-confident inferences. With the increasing computing power of computers and statistical packages available, fully Bayesian methods for decision making may become more widely applied in the future.
Cost of Sickness Absenteeism during Seasonal Influenza Outbreaks of Medium Intensity among Health Care Workers
Authors: Gianino Maria Michela , Politano Gianfranco , Scarmozzino Antonio , Stillo Michela , Amprino Viola , Di Carlo Stefano , Benso Alfredo , Zotti Carla Maria
Published: March 2019

This study aims to estimate the economic costs of sickness absenteeism of health care workers in a large Italian teaching hospital during the seasonal flu periods. A retrospective observational study was performed. The excess data of hospital’s sickness absenteeism during three seasonal influenza periods (2010/2011; 2011/2012; 2012/2013) came from a previous study. The cost of sickness absenteeism was calculated for six job categories: medical doctor, technical executive (i.e., pharmacists); nurses and allied health professionals (i.e., radiographer), other executives (i.e., engineer), non-medical support staff, and administrative staff, and for four age ranges: <39, 40–49, 50–59, and >59 years. An average of 5401 employees working each year were under study. There were over 11,100 working days/year lost associated with an influenza period in Italy, the costs associated were approximately 1.7 million euros, and the average work loss was valued at € 327/person. The major shares of cost appeared related to nurses and allied health professionals (45% of total costs). The highest costs for working days lost were reported in the 40–49 age range, accounting for 37% of total costs. Due to the substantial economic burden of sickness absenteeism, there are clear benefits to be gained from the effective prevention of the influenza.
Basic Life Support Training Methods for Health Science Students: A Systematic Review
Authors: García-Suárez Mario , Méndez-Martínez Carlos , Martínez-Isasi Santiago , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Fernández-García Daniel
Published: March 2019

The acquisition of competencies in basic life support (BLS) among university students of health sciences requires specific and updated training; therefore, the aim of this review was to identify, evaluate, and synthesise the available scientific knowledge on the effect of training in cardiorespiratory resuscitation in this population. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, CUIDEN, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, CINAHL, and Cochrane, including all randomised clinical trials published in the last ten years that evaluated basic life support training methods among these students. We selected a total of 11 randomissed clinical trials that met the inclusion criteria. Participants were nursing and medicine students who received theoretical and practical training in basic life support. The studies showed a great heterogeneity in training methods and evaluators, as did the feedback devices used in the practical evaluations and in the measurement of quality of cardiorespiratory resuscitation. In spite of the variety of information resulting from the training methods in basic life support, we conclude that mannequins with voice-guided feedback proved to be more effective than the other resources analysed for learning.
Gender Differences in Geriatric Depressive Symptoms in Rural China: The Role of Physical Housing Environments and Living Arrangements
Authors: Fang Mingwang , Chen Jinfeng , Guo Ling , Ma Xiao
Published: March 2019

Physical housing environment and living arrangements are significant determinants of health, particularly in developing countries, although results are mixed. We conducted this study to examine the gender differences in geriatric depressive symptoms in rural China, and further explored the influence of housing environments and living arrangements on depressive symptoms. The data used for this study were from the third wave of the nationally representative China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) survey in 2015; a total of 2056 females and 2529 males were included in this study. According to the analysis findings, 46.15% of the respondents had depressive symptoms based on the CES-D, with a statistically significant gender difference of 54.32% in females and 39.50% in males. Logistic Regression findings identified that with regard to the items of physical housing environments, toilets without seats (OR = 1.349) and the unavailability of bathing facilities (OR = 1.469) were statistically associated with depressive symptoms among male participants, whereas for female participants the use of polluting fuels (OR = 1.248) and living arrangements (i.e., living with children, OR = 1.430) was statistically associated with depressive symptoms. Statistically significant gender differences were found for having shower or bath facilities and our findings underscored that physical housing environments and living arrangements were associated with depressive symptoms for both genders. Moreover, the study revealed that a slight gender difference exists in terms of geriatric depression in rural China. Females are more likely to become depressed than their male counterparts with the same characteristics.
‘Know that You are not Alone.’ Influences of Social Support on Youth Newly Diagnosed with HIV in Kibera, Kenya: A Qualitative Study Informing Intervention Development
Authors: Lockwood Nicole , Lypen Kathryn , Shalabi Firas , Kumar Manasi , Ngugi Elizabeth , Harper Gary
Published: March 2019

The role of social support in assisting youth in developed countries cope with their HIV diagnosis has been examined through a vast body of research; yet, there remains a gap in research around the effects of social support among youth living in sub-Saharan African countries including Kenya. This study aimed to examine the role of social support among Kenyan youth living with HIV, specifically with regard to the variations in influences of this social support. We conducted semi-structured focus group discussions with youth (ages 18 to 27) living in the informal urban settlement of Kibera in Nairobi, Kenya (n = 53). Data analysis followed a phenomenological inquiry framework, and seven major categories of perceived social support influences were identified: (1) linkage to services, (2) antiretroviral (ARV) adherence, (3) self-acceptance of HIV status, (4) healthy and positive living, (5) understanding of what it means to be living with HIV, (6) HIV status disclosure, and (7) family and occupational strengthening. The findings from this study suggest that Kenyan youth living with HIV can benefit from social support in a multitude of ways and can occur across several socio-ecological levels. Future research should further examine these influences, specifically regarding intervention development across socio-ecological levels.
Newly Designed Hydrolysis Acidification Flat-Sheet Ceramic Membrane Bioreactor for Treating High-Strength Dyeing Wastewater
Authors: Jin Yue , Wang Dunqiu , Zhang Wenjie
Published: March 2019

Cost-effective treatment of dyeing wastewater remains a challenge. In this study, a newly designed hydrolysis acidification flat-sheet ceramic membrane bioreactor (HA-CMBR) was used in treating high-strength dyeing wastewater. The start-up phase of the HA-CMBR was accomplished in 29 days by using cultivated seed sludge. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal rate reached about 62% with influent COD of 7800 mg/L and an organic loading rate of 7.80 kg-COD/(m3·d). Chromaticity removal exceeded 99%. The results show that the HA-CMBR has good removal performance in treating dyeing wastewater. The HA-CMBR could run with low energy consumption at trans-membrane pressure (TMP) <10 kPa due to the good water permeability of the flat-sheet ceramic membrane. New strains with 92%–96% similarity to Alkalibaculum bacchi, Pseudomonas sp., Desulfovibrio sp., and Halothiobacillaceae were identified in the HA-CMBR. Microbial population analysis indicated that Desulfovibrio sp., Deltaproteobacteria, Halothiobacillaceae, Alkalibaculum sp., Pseudomonas sp., Desulfomicrobium sp., and Chlorobaculum sp. dominated in the HA-CMBR.
Development and Validation of the Policies, Opportunities, Initiatives and Notable Topics (POINTS) Audit for Campuses and Worksites
Authors: Horacek Tanya M. , Simon Marlei , Dede Yildirim Elif , White Adrienne A. , Shelnutt Karla P. , Riggsbee Kristin , Olfert Melissa D. , Morrell Jesse Stabile , Mathews Anne E. , Zhou Wenjun , Kidd Tandalayo , Kattelmann Kendra , Greene Geoffrey , Franzen-Castle Lisa , Colby Sarah , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol , Brown Onikia
Published: March 2019

Background: Workplace or campus wellness/obesity-prevention policies and initiatives can improve health. Research tools to assess worksite or campus policies/initiatives are scarce. Thus, the aim of this research is to develop and validate the policies, opportunities, initiatives, and notable topics (POINTS) audit. Methods: POINTS was developed and refined via expert review, pilot-testing, and field testing. Trained researchers completed a web-based review from a student-focus or employee-focus regarding 34 health-promoting topics for colleges. Each topic was evaluated on a 0–2 scale: 0 = no policy/initiative, 1 = initiatives, 2 = written policy. When a written policy was detected, additional policy support questions (administered, monitored, reviewed) were completed. Results: Cronbach’s Alpha for the student-focused POINTS audit was α = 0.787 (34 items, possible points = 65), and for the employee-focused POINTS audit was α = 0.807 (26 items, possible points = 50). A total of 115 student-focused and 33 employee-focused audits were completed. Although there was little evidence of policy presence beyond stimulant standards (smoking and alcohol), there were extensive examples of health initiatives. The student-focused POINTS audit was validated using the Healthier Campus Initiative’s survey. Conclusions: POINTS is a web-based audit tool that is valid and useful for pre-assessment, advocacy, benchmarking, and tracking policies for health and well-being for students (campus) and employees (worksite).
Heritage Building Information Modeling (H-BIM) Applied to A Stone Bridge
Authors: León-Robles Carlos A. , Reinoso-Gordo Juan F. , González-Quiñones Juan J.
Published: March 2019

Certain historical works of civil engineering should be preserved as heritage monuments and when possible should continue serving the function they were designed for. Old stone bridges could be sustainably maintained but their conservation requires accurate documentation. In this study, we have scanned Ízbor bridge (1860) in Spain, and to facilitate conservation, we have modeled the ancient bridge using BIM (building information modeling). We propose a method and a model for this kind of bridge to be used as a reference for similar heritage monuments. Ízbor bridge modeled in this way will be useful for government planning and conservation agencies.
Hybrid 3D Models: When Geomatics Innovations Meet Extensive Built Heritage Complexes
Authors: Chiabrando Filiberto , Sammartano Giulia , Spanò Antonia , Spreafico Alessandra
Published: March 2019

This article proposes the use of a multiscale and multisensor approach to collect and model three-dimensional (3D) data concerning wide and complex areas to obtain a variety of metric information in the same 3D archive, which is based on a single coordinate system. The employment of these 3D georeferenced products is multifaceted and the fusion or integration among different sensors’ data, scales, and resolutions is promising, and it could be useful in the generation of a model that could be defined as a hybrid. The correct geometry, accuracy, radiometry, and weight of the data models are hereby evaluated when comparing integrated processes and results from Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS), Mobile Mapping System (MMS), Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), and terrestrial photogrammetry, while using Total Station (TS) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) for topographic surveys. The entire analysis underlines the potentiality of the integration and fusion of different solutions and it is a crucial part of the ‘Torino 1911’ project whose main purpose is mapping and virtually reconstructing the 1911 Great Exhibition settled in the Valentino Park in Turin (Italy).
Bangkok CCTV Image through a Road Environment Extraction System Using Multi-Label Convolutional Neural Network Classification
Authors: Sirirattanapol Chairath , NAGAI Masahiko , Witayangkurn Apichon , Pravinvongvuth Surachet , Ekpanyapong Mongkol
Published: March 2019

Information regarding the conditions of roads is a safety concern when driving. In Bangkok, public weather sensors such as weather stations and rain sensors are insufficiently available to provide such information. On the other hand, a number of existing CCTV cameras have been deployed recently in various places for surveillance and traffic monitoring. Instead of deploying new sensors designed specifically for monitoring road conditions, images and location information from existing cameras can be used to obtain precise environmental information. Therefore, we propose a road environment extraction framework that covers different situations, such as raining and non-raining scenes, daylight and night-time scenes, crowded and non-crowded traffic, and wet and dry roads. The framework is based on CCTV images from a Bangkok metropolitan dataset, provided by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. To obtain information from CCTV image sequences, multi-label classification was considered by applying a convolutional neural network. We also compared various models, including transfer learning techniques, and developed new models in order to obtain optimum results in terms of performance and efficiency. By adding dropout and batch normalization techniques, our model could acceptably perform classification with only a few convolutional layers. Our evaluation showed a Hamming loss and exact match ratio of 0.039 and 0.84, respectively. Finally, a road environment monitoring system was implemented to test the proposed framework.
Multi-Level Morphometric Characterization of Built-up Areas and Change Detection in Siberian Sub-Arctic Urban Area: Yakutsk
Authors: Gadal Sébastien , Ouerghemmi Walid
Published: March 2019

Recognition and characterization of built-up areas in the Siberian sub-Arctic urban territories of Yakutsk are dependent on two main factors: (1) the season (snow and ice from October to the end of April, the flooding period in May, and the summertime), which influences the accuracy of urban object detection, and (2) the urban structure, which influences the morphological recognition and characterization of built-up areas. In this study, high repetitiveness remote sensing Sentinel-2A and SPOT 6 high-resolution satellite images were combined to characterize and detect urban built-up areas over the city of Yakutsk. High temporal resolution of Sentinel-2A allows land use change detection and metric spatial resolution of SPOT 6 allows the characterization of built-up areas’ socioeconomic functions and uses.
Knockdown of the TP53-Induced Glycolysis and Apoptosis Regulator (TIGAR) Sensitizes Glioma Cells to Hypoxia, Irradiation and Temozolomide
Authors: Maurer Gabriele D. , Heller Sonja , Wanka Christina , Rieger Johannes , Steinbach Joachim P.
Published: March 2019

The TP53-induced glycolysis and apoptosis regulator (TIGAR) has been shown to decrease glycolysis, to activate the pentose phosphate pathway, and to provide protection against oxidative damage. Hypoxic regions are considered characteristic of glioblastoma and linked with resistance to current treatment strategies. Here, we established that LNT-229 glioma cell lines stably expressed shRNA constructs targeting TIGAR, and exposed them to hypoxia, irradiation and temozolomide. The disruption of TIGAR enhanced levels of reactive oxygen species and cell death under hypoxic conditions, as well as the effectiveness of irradiation and temozolomide. In addition, TIGAR was upregulated by HIF-1α. As a component of a complex network, TIGAR contributes to the metabolic adjustments that arise from either spontaneous or therapy-induced changes in tumor microenvironment.
Molecular Mechanisms and Bioavailability of Polyphenols in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Costea Teodora , Nagy Péter , Ganea Constanța , Szöllősi János , Mocanu Maria-Magdalena
Published: March 2019

Prostate cancer is the one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers among men over the age of 50. Several lines of evidence support the observation that polyphenols have preventive and therapeutic effects in prostate cancer. Moreover, prostate cancer is ideal for chemoprevention due to its long latency. We propose here an equilibrated lifestyle with a diet rich in polyphenols as prophylactic attempts to slow down the progression of localized prostate cancer or prevent the occurrence of the disease. In this review, we will first summarize the molecular mechanisms of polyphenols in prostate cancer with a focus on the antioxidant and pro-oxidant effects, androgen receptors (AR), key molecules involved in AR signaling and their transactivation pathways, cell cycle, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, genetic aspects, and epigenetic mechanisms. The relevance of the molecular mechanisms is discussed in light of current bioavailability data regarding the activity of polyphenols in prostate cancer. We also highlight strategies for improving the bioavailability of polyphenols. We hope that this review will lead to further research regarding the bioavailability and the role of polyphenols in prostate cancer prevention and treatment.
Metabolic and Immunological Shifts during Mid-to-Late Gestation Influence Maternal Blood Methylation of CPT1A and SREBF1
Authors: Pavethynath Shilpa , Imai Chihiro , Jin Xin , Hichiwa Naomi , Takimoto Hidemi , Okamitsu Motoko , Tarui Iori , Aoyama Tomoko , Yago Satoshi , Fudono Ayako , Muramatsu Masaaki , Miyasaka Naoyuki , Sato Noriko
Published: March 2019

Mid-to-late gestation is a unique period in which women experience dynamic changes in lipid metabolism. Although the recent intensive epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) using peripheral leukocytes have revealed that lipid-related traits alter DNA methylation, the influence of pregnancy-induced metabolic changes on the methylation levels of these differentially methylated sites is not well known. In this study, we performed a prospective cohort study of pregnant women (n = 52) using the MassARRAY EpiTYPER assay and analyzed the methylation levels of variably methylated sites, including CPT1A intron 1 and SREBF1 intron 1 CpGs, which were previously verified to be robustly associated with adiposity traits. Although methylation of SREBF1 was associated with body mass index (BMI) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol at mid-gestation, this association was attenuated at late gestation, which was consistent with the metabolic switch from an anabolic to a catabolic state. However, the BMI association with CPT1A intron 1 methylation appeared to strengthen at late gestation; this association was mediated by pre-pregnancy BMI-dependent change in the leukocyte proportion during mid-to-late gestation. Thus, the methylation of adiposity-related differentially methylated regions was sensitive to metabolic and immunological changes during mid-to-late gestation.