bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraints on Entrainment and Deposition Models in Avalanche Simulations from High-Resolution Radar Data
Authors: Rauter Matthias , Köhler Anselm
Published: December 2019

Depth-integrated simulations of snow avalanches have become a central part of risk analysis and mitigation. However, the common practice of applying different model parameters to mimic different avalanches is unsatisfying. In here, we analyse this issue in terms of two differently sized avalanches from the full-scale avalanche test-site Vallée de la Sionne, Switzerland. We perform depth-integrated simulations with the toolkit OpenFOAM, simulating both events with the same set of model parameters. Simulation results are validated with high-resolution position data from the GEODAR radar. Rather than conducting extensive post-processing to match radar data to the output of the simulations, we generate synthetic flow signatures inside the flow model. The synthetic radar data can be directly compared with the GEODAR measurements. The comparison reveals weaknesses of the model, generally at the tail and specifically by overestimating the runout of the smaller event. Both issues are addressed by explicitly considering deposition processes in the depth-integrated model. The new deposition model significantly improves the simulation of the small avalanche, making it starve in the steep middle part of the slope. Furthermore, the deposition model enables more accurate simulations of deposition patterns and volumes and the simulation of avalanche series that are influenced by previous deposits.
Negative Anomalies of the Earth’s Electric Field as Earthquake Precursors
Authors: Smirnov Sergey
Published: December 2019

Anomalies of the electric field potential gradient have been observed in the near-ground air before earthquakes in different regions of the world. Such anomalies are likely caused by radon air ionization. In this study, the impact of this precursor was estimated according to continuous observations of the electric field in Kamchatka in 1997–2002.
The Dynamic Analysis of the Pollutant Emissions Impact on Human Health in China Industries Based on the Meta-Frontier DEA
Authors: Shi Changfeng , Wu Hui , Chiu Yung-Ho
Published: December 2019

Environmental pollutant emissions have become increasingly serious, and the resulting human health problems have become the focus of social attention. In this study, 30 provinces in China were selected as the object of study, SO2, NOX (nitrogen oxide), and PM2.5 were taken as undesirable outputs, and a meta-frontier dynamic data envelopment analysis model was adopted to avoid the disadvantages of static analysis. In this paper, energy efficiency, environmental pollution efficiency, and human health efficiency were incorporated into a unified analysis framework by constructing a two-stage model of the production and health stages. The study shows that the total efficiency score of nine provinces and cities, including Beijing, is 1. However, the score of two-stage efficiency in most provinces, such as Anhui, is less than 1, and the score of production efficiency is higher than that of health efficiency. In the second stage, the average efficiency of health expenditure and medical staff input is low, so it is necessary to make targeted improvement. In this regard, it is necessary for the government to increase health expenditure to improve the overall level of health efficiency.
Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Blood Glucose, Food Cravings, and Affect in a Non-Diabetic: An N-of-1 Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Daza Eric Jay , Wac Katarzyna , Oppezzo Marily
Published: December 2019

Sleep deprivation is a prevalent and rising health concern, one with known effects on blood glucose (BG) levels, mood, and calorie consumption. However, the mechanisms by which sleep deprivation affects calorie consumption (e.g., measured via self-reported types of craved food) are unclear, and may be highly idiographic (i.e., individual-specific). Single-case or “n-of-1” randomized trials (N1RT) are useful in exploring such effects by exposing each subject to both sleep deprivation and baseline conditions, thereby characterizing effects specific to that individual. We had two objectives: (1) To test and generate individual-specific N1RT hypotheses of the effects of sleep deprivation on next-day BG level, mood, and food cravings in two non-diabetic individuals; (2) To refine and guide a future n-of-1 study design for testing and generating such idiographic hypotheses for personalized management of sleep behavior in particular, and for chronic health conditions more broadly. We initially did not find evidence for idiographic effects of sleep deprivation, but better-refined post hoc findings indicate that sleep deprivation may have increased BG fluctuations, cravings, and negative emotions. We also introduce an application of mixed-effects models and pancit plots to assess idiographic effects over time.
Identification of Key Performance Indicators for Hospital Management Using an Extended Hesitant Linguistic DEMATEL Approach
Authors: Zhang Ling , Liu Ran , Jiang Shan , Luo Gang , Liu Hu-Chen
Published: December 2019

Performance analysis is of great significance to increase the operational efficiency of healthcare organizations. Healthcare performance is influenced by numerous indicators, but it is unrealistic for administrators to improve all of them due to the restriction of resources. To solve this problem, we integrated double hierarchy hesitant fuzzy linguistic term sets (DHHFLTSs) with the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and proposed a DHHFL– DEMATEL method to identify key performance indicators (KPIs) in healthcare management. For the developed approach, the judgments of experts on the inter-relationships among indicators were represented by DHHFLTSs, and a novel combination weighting approach was proposed to obtain experts’ weights in line with hesitant degree and consensus degree. Then, the normal DEMATEL method was extended and used for examining the cause and effect relationships between indicators; the technique for the order of preference by similarity to the ideal solution (TOPSIS) method was utilized to generate the ranking of performance indicators. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed DHHFL–DEMATEL approach were illustrated by a practical example in a rehabilitation hospital.
The Influence of Tourists’ Experience of Quality of Street Foods on Destination’s Image, Life Satisfaction, and Word of Mouth: The Moderating Impact of Food Neophobia
Authors: Lee Sangmook , Park Hyebin , Ahn Yoonyoung
Published: December 2019

Due to growing food-related tourism, there is increasing interest about street foods worldwide, including South Korea. Many types of food-related experiences have been considered as one of the significant elements to develop positive perceptions about a destination, and street food has been recognized as a critical clue for encouraging tourists to a destination. Previous scholars mentioned street food as a public health risk element as well as a significant factor to attract tourists’ attention. Therefore, this study aims to find out how experiential quality of street foods is related to the destination image, life satisfaction, and word of mouth as perceived by tourists in night markets of South Korea. Data was collected from 325 foreigners who visited night markets and have experienced street foods in Korea. This study demonstrates the results of the influence of quality of street foods on tourist experience, on destination image, on life satisfaction, and on word of mouth in Korea. In addition, the result shows a moderating impact of food neophobia on the formulated relationships. There are statistically significant differences between groups with high neophobia perception and low neophobia perception of street foods. Based on the results of this study, we propose not only academic implications for future studies, but also managerial implications for food enterprises and food tourism organizers related to street food.
Two-Dimensional Titanium Carbides (Ti3C2Tx) Functionalized by Poly(m-phenylenediamine) for Efficient Adsorption and Reduction of Hexavalent Chromium
Authors: Jin Linfeng , Chai Liyuan , Yang Weichun , Wang Haiying , Zhang Liyuan
Published: December 2019

Titanium carbides (MXenes) are promising multifunctional materials. However, the negative surface charge and layer-by-layer restacking of MXenes severely restrict their application in the field of anionic pollutants, including in hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). Herein, Ti3C2Tx MXenes was functionalized through in situ polymerization and intercalation of poly(m-phenylenediamine) (PmPD), then Ti3C2Tx/PmPD composites were obtained. Delightedly, Ti3C2Tx/PmPD composites exhibited positive surface charge, expanded interlayer spacing, and enhanced hydrophobicity. Furthermore, the specific surface area of Ti3C2Tx/PmPD composite was five and 23 times that of Ti3C2Tx and PmPD, respectively. These advantages endowed Ti3C2Tx/PmPD composite with an excellent adsorption capacity of Cr(VI) (540.47 mg g−1), which was superior to PmPD (384.73 mg g−1), Ti3C2Tx MXene (137.45 mg g−1), and the reported MXene-based adsorbents. The Cr(VI) removal mechanism mainly involved electrostatic adsorption, reduction, and chelation interaction. This study developed a simple functionalization strategy, which would greatly explore the potential of MXenes in the field of anionic pollutants.
Gender Differences in Motivation and Barriers for The Practice of Physical Exercise in Adolescence
Authors: Portela-Pino Iago , López-Castedo Antonio , Martínez-Patiño María José , Valverde-Esteve Teresa , Domínguez-Alonso José
Published: December 2019

A total of 852 adolescents between 12 and 17 years of age were evaluated (M = 14.86, SD = 1.67), randomly selected among a population of secondary school and Baccalaureate students. We applied an “ad hoc” questionnaire on sociodemographic data and the Self-Report of Reasons for the Practice of Physical Exercise (AMPEF) and Self-Report of Barriers to the Practice of Physical Exercise (ABPEF) questionnaires. The results obtained show a prevalence of competition, social recognition, and challenge as motivational factors, and fatigue or laziness as barriers to physical exercise among adolescents. With respect to gender, boys show a greater presence of motivations towards doing physical exercise, while girls show more barriers. In conclusion, the motivational factors and barriers interact and support each other for a better predisposition towards physical exercise.
HIV Care Outcomes among Hispanics/Latinos with Diagnosed HIV in the United States by Place of Birth-2015–2018, Medical Monitoring Project
Authors: Demeke Hanna B. , Luo Qingwei , Luna-Gierke Ruth E. , Padilla Mabel , Girona-Lozada Gladys , Miranda-De León Sandra , Weiser John , Beer Linda
Published: December 2019

Relocation from one’s birthplace may affect human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) outcomes, but national estimates of HIV outcomes among Hispanics/Latinos by place of birth are limited. We analyzed Medical Monitoring Project data collected in 2015–2018 from 2564 HIV-positive Hispanic/Latino adults and compared clinical outcomes between mainland US-born (referent group), Puerto Rican (PR-born), and those born outside the United States (non-US-born). We reported weighted percentages of characteristics and used logistic regression with predicted marginal means to examine differences between groups (p < 0.05). PR-born Hispanics/Latinos were more likely to be prescribed antiretroviral therapy (ART) (94%) and retained in care (94%) than mainland-US-born (79% and 77%, respectively) and non-US-born (91% and 87%, respectively) Hispanics/Latinos. PR-born Hispanics/Latinos were more likely to have sustained viral suppression (75%) than mainland-US-born Hispanics/Latinos (57%). Non-US-born Hispanics/Latinos were more likely to be prescribed ART (91% vs. 79%), retained in care (87% vs. 77%), and have sustained viral suppression (74% vs. 57%) than mainland-US-born Hispanics/Latinos. Greater Ryan White HIV/AIDS-funded facility usage among PR-born, better mental health among non-US-born, and less drug use among PR-born and non-US-born Hispanics/Latinos may have contributed to better HIV outcomes. Expanding programs with comprehensive HIV/AIDS services, including for mental health and substance use, may reduce HIV outcome disparities among Hispanics/Latinos.
Influence of Personality Traits and Its Interaction with the Phenomenon of Bullying: Multi-Centre Descriptive Study
Authors: Pabón-Carrasco Manuel , Ramirez-Baena Lucia , Jiménez-Picón Nerea , Ponce Blandón José Antonio , Martínez-Montilla José Manuel , Martos-García Raúl
Published: December 2019

Bullying affects thousands of teenagers worldwide and has devastating consequences. Various studies suggest that the personality of teenagers is a risk profile for bullying. The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between the personality of teenagers aged 14 to 16 years from three education centres located in the province of Seville (Spain) and bullying in any of its victim or aggressor roles. A multi-centre cross-sectional observational descriptive study was conducted in three education centres in the province of Seville (Spain). The sample consisted of 93 students. In order to measure the two main variables, the Bull-S test was used for bullying, and the EPQ-J questionnaire was used for personality traits. A descriptive and correlation analysis was performed between variables. The results showed that 14% (n = 13) of the sample were detected as victims and another 14% (n = 13) were detected as aggressors. Statistically significant differences were found between neuroticism (p = 0.044; Phi = 0.615), sincerity (p = 0.016; V de Cramer = 0.474), and anti-social behaviour (p = 0.007; Phi = 0.620) with the variables victim/aggressor. Bullies are typically males who score high on neuroticism and anti-social behaviour, with a tendency towards social dissimulation.
Individual and Regional Characteristics Associated with Maternal Smoking During Pregnancy in Japan: Healthy Parents and Children 21
Authors: Ooka Tadao , Akiyama Yuka , Shinohara Ryoji , Yokomichi Hiroshi , Yamagata Zentaro
Published: December 2019

Smoking during pregnancy causes various maternal and fetal health problems. Although there are considerable differences in maternal smoking proportions between localities, only a few studies have investigated the effects of regional characteristics on maternal smoking behavior. This study aimed to clarify the association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and individual and regional characteristics. We used data from a large nationwide birth cohort study in Japan that consisted of information on 20,267 women with children aged 3–4 months. The multilevel regression model was used to examine the association between smoking behavior during pregnancy and individual and regional characteristics. On multilevel analysis, late birth order, young age of the mother at birth, low birth weight, low economic status, husband’s smoking during pregnancy, maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy, absence of a pregnancy counselor, and lack of participation in local events for childrearing were significantly associated with maternal smoking behavior during pregnancy at the individual level. Meanwhile, a high unemployment rate and a high number of nurseries were significantly associated with maternal smoking behavior during pregnancy at the regional level. In conclusion, we showed the relation between maternal smoking during pregnancy and the individual- and regional-level characteristics.
Assessing the Effects of Information System Quality and Relationship Quality on Continuance Intention in E-Tourism
Authors: Masri Ni Wayan , You Jun-Jer , Ruangkanjanases Athapol , Chen Shih-Chih , Pan Chia-I
Published: December 2019

The advance of electronic commerce has resulted in successful e-travel services. Through the development of e-travel information, consumers can plan their trip without time and space limitations. This study proposes a model regarding the formation of the relationship quality (customer satisfaction and trust), information system quality, perceived value, and customers’ intention to continue in the e-tourism environment. The study is based on 351 e-travel users in Taiwan. The result shows that customer satisfaction has a positive effect on continuance intention. Information system quality has a positive relationship with customer satisfaction, trust, and customer continuance intention. Furthermore, the perceived value has an effect on customer satisfaction and trust. However, the perceived value is partially related to customer continuance intention through customer satisfaction. The managerial implications of this study are discussed.
Risk of Urticaria in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Lin Shih-Yi , Lin Cheng-Li , Lin Cheng-Chieh , Hsu Wu-Huei , Hsu Chung-Y. , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: December 2019

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) has been linked to many autoimmune problems. The association between T1DM and urticaria warrants investigation. Data were extracted from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) of Taiwan. Participants with T1DM were recruited as the case group, and that group was matched by sex and age at a ratio of 1:4 to the control group comprising those without T1DM. The study period was 1998–2011. All participants were followed up to the diagnosis of urticaria, withdrawal from the insurance program, death, or the end of the study. A multivariable Cox proportional hazard model was used to calculate the adjusted and crude hazard ratios for urticaria. A total of 5895 participants (1179 in the case group and 4716 in the control group) were followed up in the study. The total incidence rate of urticaria in patients with type 1 DM was 26.6 per 1000 person-years, and that in controls was 6.85 per 1000 person-years. Compared with the control group, the hazard ratio of urticaria in the case group was 2.84 (95% CI = 2.27–3.56). Compared with age-matched participants without T1DM, patients with type 1 DM aged <18 years had a 3.62-fold higher risk of urticaria (95% CI = 2.85–4.59). The hazard ratio in patients with an adjusted Diabetes Complications Severity Index (aDCSI) score of 1.01–2.00 per year was 2.57 (95% CI = 1.18–5.57), and that in patients with an aDCSI score of >2.00 per year was 4.47 (95% CI = 2.68–7.47). T1DM patients aged <18 years had an increased risk of urticaria, but a similar phenomenon was not observed among T1DM patients older than 18 years.
The Dose of Fungal Aerosol Inhaled by Workers in a Waste-Sorting Plant in Poland: A Case Study
Authors: Brągoszewska Ewa
Published: December 2019

Bioaerosol monitoring is a rapidly emerging area in the context of work environments because microbial pollution is a key element of indoor air pollution and plays an important role in certain infectious diseases and allergies. However, as yet, relatively little is known about inhaled doses of microorganisms in workplaces. Today, the important issue of social concern is due to waste management, transport, sorting, and processing of wastes and their environmental impact and effects on public health. In fact, waste management activities can have numerous adverse effects on human wellbeing. Health effects are generally linked to exposure (EX), defined as the concentration of a contaminant and the length of time a person is exposed to this concentration. Dose is an effective tool for evaluating the quantity of a contaminant that actually crosses the body’s boundaries and influences the goal tissue. This document presents an analysis of the fungal waste-sorting plant EX dose (FWSPED) inhaled by workers in a waste-sorting plant (WSP) in Poland in March 2019. The main purpose of this research was to assess FWSPED inhaled by workers in two cabins at the WSP: the preliminary manual sorting cabin (PSP) and the purification manual sorting cabin (quality control; QSP). It was found that the FWSPED inhaled by workers was 193 CFU/kg in the PSP and 185 CFU/kg in the QSP. Fungal particles were quantitatively evaluated and qualitatively identified by the GEN III Biolog system. During the research, it was found that isolates belonging to the Aspergilus flavus and Penicillum chrysogenum strains were detected most frequently in the WSP. The total elimination of many anthropogenic sources is not possible, but the important findings of this research can be used to develop realistic management policies and methods to improve the biological air quality of WSPs for effective protection of WSP workers.
Comment on Nakai, Y.; Makizako, H.; Kiyama, R.; Tomioka, K.; Taniguchi, Y.; Kubozono, T.; Takenaka, T.; Ohishi, M. Association between Chronic Pain and Physical Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16, 1330, doi:10.3390/ijerph16081330
Authors: Alizargar Javad
Published: December 2019

In their report, Nakai et al [...]
When and How Should Chinese Pregnant Women Exercise? A Longitudinal Study in China
Authors: Xiang Mi , Konishi Masayuki , Hu Huanhuan , Nishimaki Mio , Kim Hyeon-Ki , Tabata Hiroki , Shimizu Hisao , Fang Yue , Li Xueyuan , Xu Jiawei , Zhang Zhiruo , Liang Huigang , Arao Takashi , Sakamoto Shizuo
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to examine when and how physical activity (PA) influences gestational weight gain (GWG) and infant birthweight (BW) by considering the PA’s total volume, timing, intensity, and type, controlling for the influence of energy intake. A total of 1272 participants in different stages of pregnancy were recruited from hospital. The associations between PA and GWG or BW in the latter half of pregnancy were significant. Women with the highest PA volume in the third trimester had significantly lower risks of inadequate and excessive GWG by 69% (OR = 0.31, 95%CI: 0.10–0.91) and 67% (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.12–0.91), respectively, compared to women in the lowest quartile. Women who achieved the recommended moderate intensity of PA during their second and third trimesters, independent of total volume of PA, had infants with significantly lower BWs compared to those who did not (β = −0.15, SE = 66.33, p = 0.04; β = −0.20, SE = 64.54, p = 0.01, respectively). Therefore, the effects of total volume and intensity of PA on GWG and BW were different. Interventions to prevent inappropriate GWG and macrosomia may need to set different priorities and timing regarding total volume or intensity of PA.
CT2A Cell Viability Modulated by Electromagnetic Fields at Extremely Low Frequency under No Thermal Effects
Authors: García-Minguillán Olga , Prous Raquel , Ramirez-Castillejo Maria del Carmen , Maestú Ceferino
Published: December 2019

The effects produced by electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on human beings at extremely low frequencies (ELFs) have being investigated in the past years, across in vitro studies, using different cell lines. Nevertheless, the effects produced on cells are not clarified, and the cellular mechanisms and cell-signaling processes involved are still unknown. This situation has resulted in a division among the scientific community about the adequacy of the recommended level of exposure. In this sense, we consider that it is necessary to develop long-term exposure studies and check if the recommended levels of EMFs are under thermal effects. Hence, we exposed CT2A cells to different EMFs at different ELFs at short and long times. Our results showed frequency dependence in CT2A exposed during 24 h to a small EMF of 30 μT equal to those originated by the Earth and frequency dependence after the exposure during seven days to an EMF of 100 µT at different ELFs. Particularly, our results showed a remarkable cell viability decrease of CT2A cells exposed to EMFs of 30 Hz. Nevertheless, after analyzing the thermal effects in terms of HSP90 expression, we did not find thermal damages related to the differences in cell viability, so other crucial cellular mechanism should be involved.
RETRACTED: Matteucci et al. Microenvironment Stimuli HGF and Hypoxia Differently Affected miR-125b and Ets-1 Function with Opposite Effects on the Invasiveness of Bone Metastatic Cells: A Comparison with Breast Carcinoma Cells. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2018, 19, 258
Authors:   International Journal of Molecular Sciences Editorial Office
Published: December 2019

We have been made aware that a number of figures of the title paper [...]
Olfactory-Related Quality of Life in Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: A Genetic-Acquired Factors Model
Authors: Micarelli Alessandro , Cormano Andrea , Caccamo Daniela , Alessandrini Marco
Published: December 2019

Genetic polymorphisms as well as environmental exposures to chemical compounds, iatrogenic, psychological, and physical trauma may play a pathophysiological role in multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) olfactory complaints, given that xenobiotic metabolism is influenced by sequence variations in genes of metabolizing enzymes. Thus, the aim of the present study was to depict—by means of multiple regression analysis—how different genetic conditions, grouped according to their function as well as clinical background and environmental exposure may interfere with those olfactory complaints referred by MCS patients. Therefore, MCS patients after gene polymorphism sequencing, the olfactory-related quality of life score—calculated by means of the Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorder in forty-six MCS patients—have been found to significantly rely on the phase I and II enzymes score and exposure to previous compounds and surgical treatments. The present work—implementing for the first time a genetic-acquired factors model on a regression analysis—further reinforces those theories, positing MCS as a complex, multifactorial, disease in which the genetic risk related to phase I and II enzymes involved in xenobiotic detoxification, olfactory, and neurodegenerative diseases play a necessary, but probably not sufficient role, along the pathophysiological route of the disease.
Actin and Actin-Associated Proteins in Extracellular Vesicles Shed by Osteoclasts
Authors: Holliday L. Shannon , Faria Lorraine Perciliano de , Rody Wellington J.
Published: December 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are shed by all eukaryotic cells and have emerged as important intercellular regulators. EVs released by osteoclasts were recently identified as important coupling factors in bone remodeling. They are shed as osteoclasts resorb bone and stimulate osteoblasts to form bone to replace the bone resorbed. We reported the proteomic content of osteoclast EVs with data from two-dimensional, high resolution liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. In this article, we examine in detail the actin and actin-associated proteins found in osteoclast EVs. Like EVs from other cell types, actin and various actin-associated proteins were abundant. These include components of the polymerization machinery, myosin mechanoenzymes, proteins that stabilize or depolymerize microfilaments, and actin-associated proteins that are involved in regulating integrins. The selective incorporation of actin-associated proteins into osteoclast EVs suggests that they have roles in the formation of EVs and/or the regulatory signaling functions of the EVs. Regulating integrins so that they bind extracellular matrix tightly, in order to attach EVs to the extracellular matrix at specific locations in organs and tissues, is one potential active role for actin-associated proteins in EVs.
Promising 2,6,9-Trisubstituted Purine Derivatives for Anticancer Compounds: Synthesis, 3D-QSAR, and Preliminary Biological Assays
Authors: O. Salas Cristian , Zarate Ana Maria , Kryštof Vladimir , Mella Jaime , Faundez Mario , Brea Jose , Loza María Isabel , Brito Ivan , Hendrychová Denisa , Jorda Radek , Cabrera Alan R. , Tapia Ricardo A. , Espinosa-Bustos Christian
Published: December 2019

We designed, synthesized, and evaluated novel 2,6,9-trisubstituted purine derivatives for their prospective role as antitumor compounds. Using simple and efficient methodologies, 31 compounds were obtained. We tested these compounds in vitro to draw conclusions about their cell toxicity on seven cancer cells lines and one non-neoplastic cell line. Structural requirements for antitumor activity on two different cancer cell lines were analyzed with SAR and 3D-QSAR. The 3D-QSAR models showed that steric properties could better explain the cytotoxicity of compounds than electronic properties (70% and 30% of contribution, respectively). From this analysis, we concluded that an arylpiperazinyl system connected at position 6 of the purine ring is beneficial for cytotoxic activity, while the use of bulky systems at position C-2 of the purine is not favorable. Compound 7h was found to be an effective potential agent when compared with a currently marketed drug, cisplatin, in four out of the seven cancer cell lines tested. Compound 7h showed the highest potency, unprecedented selectivity, and complied with all the Lipinski rules. Finally, it was demonstrated that 7h induced apoptosis and caused cell cycle arrest at the S-phase on HL-60 cells. Our study suggests that substitution in the purine core by arylpiperidine moiety is essential to obtain derivatives with potential anticancer activity.
Association of Elite Sports Status with Gene Variants of Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptors and Their Transcriptional Coactivator
Authors: Petr Miroslav , Maciejewska-Skrendo Agnieszka , Zajac Adam , Chycki Jakub , Stastny Petr
Published: December 2019

Background: Although the scientific literature regarding sports genomics has grown during the last decade, some genes, such as peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs), have not been fully described in terms of their role in achieving extraordinary sports performance. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to determine which elite sports performance constraints are positively influenced by PPARs and their coactivators. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used, with a combination of PPAR and sports keywords. Results: In total, 27 studies that referred to PPARs in elite athletes were included, where the Ala allele in PPARG rs1801282 was associated with strength and power elite athlete status in comparison to subelite athlete status. The C allele in PPARA rs4253778 was associated with soccer, and the G allele PPARA rs4253778 was associated with endurance elite athlete status. Other elite status endurance alleles were the Gly allele in PPARGC1A rs8192678 and the C allele PPARD rs2016520. Conclusions: PPARs can be used for estimating the potential to achieve elite status in human physical performance in strength and power, team, and aerobic sports disciplines. Carrying specific PPAR alleles can provide a partial benefit to achieving elite sports status, but does not preclude achieving elite status if they are absent.
Silver Nanoparticles on Chitosan/Silica Nanofibers: Characterization and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Zienkiewicz-Strzałka Małgorzata , Deryło-Marczewska Anna , Skorik Yury A. , Petrova Valentina A. , Choma Adam , Komaniecka Iwona
Published: December 2019

A simple, low-cost, and reproducible method for creating materials with even silver nanoparticles (AgNP) dispersion was established. Chitosan nanofibers with silica phase (CS/silica) were synthesized by an electrospinning technique to obtain highly porous 3D nanofiber scaffolds. Silver nanoparticles in the form of a well-dispersed metallic phase were synthesized in an external preparation step and embedded in the CS/silica nanofibers by deposition for obtaining chitosan nanofibers with silica phase decorated by silver nanoparticles (Ag/CS/silica). The antibacterial activity of investigated materials was tested using Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The results were compared with the properties of the nanocomposite without silver nanoparticles and a colloidal solution of AgNP. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of obtained AgNP against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) ATCC25923 and Escherichia coli (E. coli) ATCC25922 was determined. The physicochemical characterization of Ag/CS/silica nanofibers using various analytical techniques, as well as the applicability of these techniques in the characterization of this type of nanocomposite, is presented. The resulting Ag/CS/silica nanocomposites (Ag/CS/silica nanofibers) were characterized by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The morphology of the AgNP in solution, both initial and extracted from composite, the properties of composites, the size, and crystallinity of the nanoparticles, and the characteristics of the chitosan fibers were determined by electron microscopy (SEM and TEM).
RNA-seq and ChIP-seq as Complementary Approaches for Comprehension of Plant Transcriptional Regulatory Mechanism
Authors: Muhammad Isiaka Ibrahim , Kong Sze Ling , Akmar Abdullah Siti Nor , Munusamy Umaiyal
Published: December 2019

The availability of data produced from various sequencing platforms offer the possibility to answer complex questions in plant research. However, drawbacks can arise when there are gaps in the information generated, and complementary platforms are essential to obtain more comprehensive data sets relating to specific biological process, such as responses to environmental perturbations in plant systems. The investigation of transcriptional regulation raises different challenges, particularly in associating differentially expressed transcription factors with their downstream responsive genes. In this paper, we discuss the integration of transcriptional factor studies through RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq). We show how the data from ChIP-seq can strengthen information generated from RNA-seq in elucidating gene regulatory mechanisms. In particular, we discuss how integration of ChIP-seq and RNA-seq data can help to unravel transcriptional regulatory networks. This review discusses recent advances in methods for studying transcriptional regulation using these two methods. It also provides guidelines for making choices in selecting specific protocols in RNA-seq pipelines for genome-wide analysis to achieve more detailed characterization of specific transcription regulatory pathways via ChIP-seq.
Single Cell Mass Cytometry Revealed the Immunomodulatory Effect of Cisplatin Via Downregulation of Splenic CD44+, IL-17A+ MDSCs and Promotion of Circulating IFN-γ+ Myeloid Cells in the 4T1 Metastatic Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Balog József Á. , Hackler Jr. László , Kovács Anita K. , Neuperger Patrícia , Alföldi Róbert , Nagy Lajos I. , Puskás László G. , Szebeni Gábor J.
Published: December 2019

The treatment of metastatic breast cancer remained a challenge despite the recent breakthrough in the immunotherapy regimens. Here, we addressed the multidimensional immunophenotyping of 4T1 metastatic breast cancer by the state-of-the-art single cell mass cytometry (CyTOF). We determined the dose and time dependent cytotoxicity of cisplatin on 4T1 cells by the xCelligence real-time electronic sensing assay. Cisplatin treatment reduced tumor growth, number of lung metastasis, and the splenomegaly of 4T1 tumor bearing mice. We showed that cisplatin inhibited the tumor stroma formation, the polarization of carcinoma-associated fibroblasts by the diminished proteolytic activity of fibroblast activating protein. The CyTOF analysis revealed the emergence of CD11b+/Gr-1+/CD44+ or CD11b+/Gr-1+/IL-17A+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and the absence of B220+ or CD62L+ B-cells, the CD62L+/CD4+ and CD62L+/CD8+ T-cells in the spleen of advanced cancer. We could show the immunomodulatory effect of cisplatin via the suppression of splenic MDSCs and via the promotion of peripheral IFN-γ+ myeloid cells. Our data could support the use of low dose chemotherapy with cisplatin as an immunomodulatory agent for metastatic triple negative breast cancer.
FIB-4 Index and Diabetes Mellitus Are Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease in Japanese Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Seko Yuya , Yano Kohta , Takahashi Aya , Okishio Shinya , Kataoka Seita , Okuda Keiichiroh , Mizuno Naoki , Takemura Masashi , Taketani Hiroyoshi , Umemura Atsushi , Nishikawa Taichiro , Yamaguchi Kanji , Moriguchi Michihisa , Okanoue Takeshi , Itoh Yoshito
Published: December 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the risk factors for progression of CKD in patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD including patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 3 (PNPLA3) polymorphism. A total of 344 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD were enrolled consecutively in this study. Multivariate analysis identified males (odds ratio (OR) 5.46), age (per 1 year, OR 1.07), and FIB-4 index (≥1.30, OR 3.85) as factors associated with CKD. Of the 154 patients with a baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥60 mL/min, 30 had a deterioration in CKD stage and 15 developed CKD after 3 years. Multivariate analysis identified diabetes mellitus (OR 2.44) as a risk factor for deterioration in CKD stage, while diabetes mellitus (OR 21.54) and baseline eGFR (per 1 mL/min OR 0.88) were risk factors for development of CKD. PNPLA3 did not affect the change in eGFR. In NAFLD patients, a high FIB-4 index was associated with CKD to increases in the index linked to reductions in eGFR. In order to prevent development of CKD, an appropriate therapy focusing on renal function is needed for NAFLD patients, especially those with diabetes.
Correction: Kim, Y. K. et al. Tussilagone Inhibits the Inflammatory Response and Improves Survival in CLP-Induced Septic Mice. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18, 2744
Authors: Kim Yun Kyu , Yeo Myeong Gu , Oh Bo Kang , Kim Ha Yeong , Yang Hun Ji , Cho Seung-Sik , Gil Minchan , Lee Kyung Jin
Published: December 2019

We wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Autophagy is Activated In Vivo during Trimethyltin-Induced Apoptotic Neurodegeneration: A Study in the Rat Hippocampus
Authors: Ceccariglia Sabrina , Alvino Alessandra , Del Fà Aurora , Parolini Ornella , Michetti Fabrizio , Gangitano Carlo
Published: December 2019

Trimethyltin (TMT) is an organotin compound known to produce significant and selective neuronal degeneration and reactive astrogliosis in the rodent central nervous system. Autophagy is the main cellular mechanism for degrading and recycling protein aggregates and damaged organelles, which in different stress conditions, such as starvation, generally improves cell survival. Autophagy is documented in several pathologic conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases. This study aimed to investigate the autophagy and apoptosis signaling pathways in hippocampal neurons of TMT-treated (Wistar) rats to explore molecular mechanisms involved in toxicant-induced neuronal injury. The microtubule-associated protein light chain (LC3, autophagosome marker) and sequestosome1 (SQSTM1/p62) (substrate of autophagy-mediated degradation) expressions were examined by Western blotting at different time points after intoxication. The results demonstrate that the LC3 II/I ratio significantly increased at 3 and 5 days, and that p62 levels significantly decreased at 7 and 14 days. Immunofluorescence images of LC3/neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN) showed numerous strongly positive LC3 neurons throughout the hippocampus at 3 and 5 days. The terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay indicated an increase in apoptotic cells starting from 5 days after treatment. In order to clarify apoptotic pathway, immunofluorescence images of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF)/NeuN did not show nuclear translocation of AIF in neurons. Increased expression of cleaved Caspase-3 was revealed at 5–14 days in all hippocampal regions by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry analyses. These data clearly demonstrate that TMT intoxication induces a marked increase in both autophagy and caspase-dependent apoptosis, and that autophagy occurring just before apoptosis could have a potential role in neuronal loss in this experimental model of neurodegeneration.
A Fast Method for Estimating the Number of Clusters Based on Score and the Minimum Distance of the Center Point
Authors: He Zhenzhen , Jia Zongpu , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: December 2019

Clustering is widely used as an unsupervised learning algorithm. However, it is often necessary to manually enter the number of clusters, and the number of clusters has a great impact on the clustering effect. At present, researchers propose some algorithms to determine the number of clusters, but the results are not very good for determining the number of clusters of data sets with complex and scattered shapes. To solve these problems, this paper proposes using the Gaussian Kernel density estimation function to determine the maximum number of clusters, use the change of center point score to get the candidate set of center points, and further use the change of the minimum distance between center points to get the number of clusters. The experiment shows the validity and practicability of the proposed algorithm.
Big Data Analytics Correlation Taxonomy
Authors: Husamaldin Laden , Saeed Nagham
Published: December 2019

Big data analytics (BDA) is an increasingly popular research area for both organisations and academia due to its usefulness in facilitating human understanding and communication. In the literature, researchers have focused on classifying big data according to data type, data security or level of difficulty, and many research papers reveal that there is a lack of information on evidence of a real-world link of big data analytics methods and its associated techniques. Thus, many organisations are still struggling to realise the actual value of big data analytic methods and its associated techniques. Therefore, this paper gives a design research account for formulating and proposing a step ahead to understand the relation between the analytical methods and its associated techniques. Furthermore, this paper is an attempt to clarify this uncertainty and identify the difference between analytics methods and techniques by giving clear definitions for each method and its associated techniques to integrate them later in a new correlation taxonomy based on the research approaches. Thus, the primary outcome of this research is to achieve for the first time a correlation taxonomy combining analytic methods used for big data and its recommended techniques that are compatible for various sectors. This investigation was done through studying various descriptive articles of big data analytics methods and its associated techniques in different industries.
Effect of Diallyl Trisulfide on the Reproductive Behavior of the Grain Moth, Sitotroga cerealella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Chang Meng-Meng , Shah Sakhawat , Wu Meng-Ya , Zhang Su-Su , Wu Gang , Yang Feng-Lian
Published: December 2019

The Angoumois grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier, 1789) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is primarily a pest of stored products, that feeds inside the grain as larvae inducing significant economic loss in various stored commodities. Our previous studies proved that garlic essential oil and its active substances inhibit oviposition in moths. To further explore the effect on reproductive behavior and accurately interpret the results in terms of effective control of the moth population, moths were treated with diallyl trisulfide (DATS), an active substance of garlic essential oil, at a dose of 0.015 µL/L in air (LC20, sub-lethal concentration). The results showed that fecundity and the proportion of viable eggs significantly decreased when the moths were treated with LC20 DATS. Furthermore, female circadian mating rhythms and calling periodicity changed significantly after treatment. Compared with controls, the peak in mating occurred approximately 1 h earlier on the first day after DATS treatment, while it was significantly later on days 2 and 3. Moreover, mating frequency declined in presence of DATS compared with the controls. The percentage of females engaging in calling behavior decreased significantly with time, to less than 50%, 2 days after treatment, while a high calling percentage (>80%) was recorded for control moths on all 4 days. In addition, DATS had an inhibitory effect on the mating duration of S. cerealella. Moreover, a significant reduction was observed in the amount of sex pheromones extracted 8 h and 9 h after treatment. Our findings suggested that DATS has the potential to manipulate the moth population at LC20 and would be an efficient alternative to synthetic insecticides for the control of pests having low toxicity to non-target organisms and ecosystems.
Evidence for Gender-Specific Bone Loss Mechanisms in Periprosthetic Osteolysis
Authors: Ormsby Renee T. , Solomon Lucian B. , Stamenkov Roumen , Findlay David M. , Atkins Gerald J.
Published: December 2019

Osteolysis adjacent to total hip replacement (THR) prostheses is a major cause of their eventual failure. Periprosthetic osteolysis is associated with the production of bioactive particles, produced by the wear of articulating prosthesis surfaces. Wear particles invade the periprosthetic tissue, inducing inflammation and bone resorption. Previous studies have shown that osteocytes, the most numerous cell type in mineralised bone, can respond to wear particles of multiple orthopaedic material types. Osteocytes play important roles in bone resorption, regulating bone resorption by osteoclasts and directly through osteocytic osteolysis, also known as perilacunar remodelling. In this study, we perform a histological analysis of bone biopsies obtained from cohorts of male and female patients undergoing either primary THR surgery or revision THR surgery for aseptic loosening. The osteocyte lacunae area (Ot.Lac.Ar) and percentage lacunar area/bone area (%Ot.Lac.Ar/B.Ar) were significantly larger overall in revision THR bone than bone from similar sites in primary THR. Analysis by patient gender showed that increased Ot.Lac.Ar, indicative of increased perilacunar remodelling, was restricted to female revision samples. No significant differences in osteoclast parameters were detectable between the cohorts. These findings suggest previously unrecognised gender-specific mechanisms of bone loss in orthopaedic wear particle-induced osteolysis in humans.