bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of New Frying Technology on Starchy Food Quality
Authors: Wang Yi , Wu Xianglei , McClements David Julian , Chen Long , Miao Ming , Jin Zhengyu
Published: August 2021

Frying is commonly used by consumers, restaurants, and industries around the globe to cook and process foods. Compared to other food processing methods, frying has several potential advantages, including reduced processing times and the creation of foods with desirable sensory attributes. Frying is often used to prepare starchy foods. After ingestion, the starch and fat in these foods are hydrolyzed by enzymes in the human digestive tract, thereby providing an important source of energy (glucose and fatty acids) for the human body. Conversely, overconsumption of fried starchy foods can promote overweight, obesity, and other chronic diseases. Moreover, frying can generate toxic reaction products that can damage people’s health. Consequently, there is interest in developing alternative frying technologies that reduce the levels of nutritionally undesirable components in fried foods, such as vacuum, microwave, air, and radiant frying methods. In this review, we focus on the principles and applications of these innovative frying technologies, and highlight their potential advantages and shortcomings. Further development of these technologies should lead to the creation of healthier fried foods that can help combat the rise in diet-related chronic diseases.
Occurrence and Accumulation of Human Enteric Viruses and Phages in Process Water from the Fresh Produce Industry
Authors: Cuevas-Ferrando Enric , Allende Ana , Pérez-Cataluña Alba , Truchado Pilar , Hernández Natalia , Gil Maria Isabel , Sánchez Gloria
Published: August 2021

The virological quality of process water (PW) used by the produce industry has received limited attention. As a first step to overcoming technical limitations in monitoring viruses in PW, the analytical performance of ultrafiltration was assessed to concentrate viral particles from 20 L of spiked PW. The selected method used for sample concentration of PW was carefully validated, thus enabling the accurate quantification and estimation of viral titers of human enteric viruses and phages. PW from the produce industry was collected periodically from the washing tanks of commercial facilities. The analysis of coliphages was performed by plaque assay, while the occurrence of enteric viruses and crAssphage was determined by molecular techniques. Significant differences in the physicochemical composition of PW, mostly due to the different nature of fresh produce types and differences in the sanitizer used in commercial operation, were observed. Accumulation of crAssphage and coliphages was observed in PW, but correlation with human enteric viruses was not possible due to the low prevalence of these pathogens in the PW analyzed. The obtained results showed that depending on the type of product washed, the product/water ratio and the residual concentrations of the sanitizers, the prevalence and concentration of bacteriophages changed significantly.
The Proof of a Conjecture Relating Catalan Numbers to an Averaged Mandelbrot-Möbius Iterated Function
Authors: Trojovský Pavel , Venkatachalam K
Published: August 2021

In 2021, Mork and Ulness studied the Mandelbrot and Julia sets for a generalization of the well-explored function ηλ(z)=z2+λ. Their generalization was based on the composition of ηλ with the Möbius transformation μ(z)=1z at each iteration step. Furthermore, they posed a conjecture providing a relation between the coefficients of (each order) iterated series of μ(ηλ(z)) (at z=0) and the Catalan numbers. In this paper, in particular, we prove this conjecture in a more precise (quantitative) formulation.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of a Rhodes Grass (Chloris gayana) Collection
Authors: Negawo Alemayehu Teressa , Muktar Meki S. , Assefa Yilikal , Hanson Jean , Sartie Alieu M. , Habte Ermias , Jones Chris S.
Published: August 2021

Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana Kunth) is one of the most important forage grasses used throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Enhancing the conservation and use of genetic resources requires the development of knowledge and understanding about the existing global diversity of the species. In this study, 104 Rhodes grass accessions, held in trust in the ILRI forage genebank, were characterized using DArTSeq markers to evaluate the genetic diversity and population structure, and to develop representative subsets, of the collection. The genotyping produced 193,988 SNP and 142,522 SilicoDArT markers with an average polymorphic information content of 0.18 and 0.26, respectively. Hierarchical clustering using selected informative markers showed the presence of two and three main clusters using SNP and SilicoDArT markers, respectively, with a cophenetic correction coefficient of 82%. Bayesian population structure analysis also showed the presence of two main subpopulations using both marker types indicating the existence of significant genetic variation in the collection. A representative subset, containing 21 accessions from diverse origins, was developed using the SNP markers. In general, the results revealed substantial genetic diversity in the Rhodes grass collection, and the generated molecular information, together with the developed subset, should help enhance the management, use and improvement of Rhodes grass germplasm in the future.
An Interprofessional E-Learning Resource to Prepare Students for Clinical Practice in the Operating Room—A Mixed Method Study from the Students’ Perspective
Authors: Fagerdahl Ann-Mari , Torbjörnsson Eva , Sondén Anders
Published: August 2021

The operating room is a challenging learning environment for many students. Preparedness for practice is important as perceived stress and the fear of making mistakes are known to hamper learning. The aim was to evaluate students’ perspectives of an e-learning resource for achieving preparedness. A mixed methods design was used. Students (n = 52) from three educational nursing and medical programs were included. A questionnaire was used to explore demographics, student use of the e-learning resource, and how the learning activities had helped them prepare for their clinical placement. Five focus group interviews were conducted as a complement. Most students (79%) stated that the resource prepared them for their clinical placement and helped them to feel more relaxed when attending to the operating room. In total, 93% of the students recommended other students to use the e-learning resource prior to a clinical placement in the operating room. Activities containing films focusing on practical procedures were rated as the most useful. We conclude that an e-learning resource seems to increase students’ perceived preparedness for their clinical practice in the operating room. The development of e-learning resources has its challenges, and we recommend student involvement to evaluate the content.
Child Fluoride Varnish Programs Implementation: A Consensus Workshop and Actions to Increase Scale-Up in Australia
Authors: Skinner John , Dimitropoulos Yvonne , Sohn Woosung , Holden Alexander , Rambaldini Boe , Spallek Heiko , Ummer-Christian Rahila , Marshall Stuart , Raymond Kate , AO Tom Calma , Gwynne Kylie
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the findings of the National Fluoride Varnish Workshop in 2018 along with subsequent actions to scale-up the use of fluoride varnish nationally in Australia. The use of fluoride varnish programs to prevent dental caries in high-risk child populations is an evidence-based population health approach used internationally. Such programs have not been implemented at scale nationally in Australia. A National Fluoride Varnish Consensus Workshop was held in Sydney in November 2018 with an aim of sharing the current work in this area being undertaken by various Australian jurisdictions and seeking consensus on key actions to improve the scale-up nationally. Forty-four people attended the Workshop with oral health representatives from all Australian state and territory health departments, as well as the Australian Dental Association (ADA) at both NSW branch and Federal levels. There was strong support for further scale-up of fluoride varnish programs nationally and to see the wider use of having non-dental professionals apply the varnish. This case study identifies key actions required to ensure scale-up of systematic fluoride varnish programs as part of a strategic population oral health approach to preventing dental caries among high-risk children who may not routinely access dental care.
Hydrogen Sulfide: A Robust Combatant against Abiotic Stresses in Plants
Authors: Khanna Kanika , Sharma Nandni , Kour Sandeep , Ali Mohd. , Ohri Puja , Bhardwaj Renu
Published: August 2021

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is predominantly considered as a gaseous transmitter or signaling molecule in plants. It has been known as a crucial player during various plant cellular and physiological processes and has been gaining unprecedented attention from researchers since decades. They regulate growth and plethora of plant developmental processes such as germination, senescence, defense, and maturation in plants. Owing to its gaseous state, they are effectively diffused towards different parts of the cell to counterbalance the antioxidant pools as well as providing sulfur to cells. H2S participates actively during abiotic stresses and enhances plant tolerance towards adverse conditions by regulation of the antioxidative defense system, oxidative stress signaling, metal transport, Na+/K+ homeostasis, etc. They also maintain H2S-Cys-cycle during abiotic stressed conditions followed by post-translational modifications of cysteine residues. Besides their role during abiotic stresses, crosstalk of H2S with other biomolecules such as NO and phytohormones (abscisic acid, salicylic acid, melatonin, ethylene, etc.) have also been explored in plant signaling. These processes also mediate protein post-translational modifications of cysteine residues. We have mainly highlighted all these biological functions along with proposing novel relevant issues that are required to be addressed further in the near future. Moreover, we have also proposed the possible mechanisms of H2S actions in mediating redox-dependent mechanisms in plant physiology.
Dietary Nutrients and Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Lin I-Hsin , Duong Tuyen Van , Wong Te-Chih , Nien Shih-Wei , Tseng I-Hsin , Chiang Yang-Jen , Wang Hsu-Han , Yang Shwu-Huey
Published: August 2021

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in post-renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Adequate nutrient intake is a protective factor for CVD. We examined the associations of macronutrients and micronutrients with traditional and nontraditional CVD risk factors. Conducted from September 2016 to June 2018, this cross-sectional study included 106 RTRs aged ≥18 years with a functioning allograft. Dietary intake data from 3-day dietary records were collected. Nutrient intake adequacy was defined using various instruments, including the National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) guidelines. CVD risk factors were defined according to the K/DOQI guidelines. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations. CVD risk was present in all patients; the lowest proportions of adequate intake were 2.8% for dietary fiber and 0.9% for calcium. Adequate nutrient intake was associated with a lower likelihood of the occurrence of traditional CVD risk factors (specifically, 1.9–31.3% for hyperlipidemia and 94.6% for diabetes mellitus). It was also associated with a lower likelihood of the occurrence of nontraditional CVD risk by 0.8% for hypophosphatemia and 34% for hyperuricemia. Adherence to dietary guidelines should be promoted among RTRs to decrease CVD risk.
Identification of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Drinking Water in Cali, Colombia
Authors: Dávalos Andrés F. , Garcia Pamela K. , Montoya-Pachongo Carolina , Rengifo Andrea , Guerrero Daniela , Díaz-Ordoñez Lorena , Díaz Gustavo , Ferro Beatriz E.
Published: August 2021

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous microorganisms naturally resistant to antibiotics and disinfectants that can colonize drinking water supply systems. Information regarding the spread of NTM in specifically South America and Colombia is limited. We aimed to identify and characterize NTM present in tap water samples from Cali, Colombia. Drinking water samples and faucet biofilm swabs were collected in 18 places, including the city’s three main water treatment plants (WTPs). Filter-trapped material and eluates (0.45 μm) from swab washes were plated in 7H11 agar plates. Suspected colonies were evaluated microscopically, and NTM species were identified based on the rpoB gene. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was also performed. Fifty percent (9/18) of sampling points were positive for NTM (including two WTPs), from which 16 different isolates were identified: Mycobacterium mucogenicum (8/16), M. phocaicum (3/16), M. chelonae (2/16), M. mageritense (2/16), and M. fortuitum (1/16), all rapidly growing mycobacteria. A susceptibility profile was obtained from 68.75% (11/16) of the isolates. M. chelonae was the most resistant species. All NTM isolated are potentially responsible for human diseases; our findings might provide a baseline for exploring NTM transmission dynamics and clinical characterization, as well as potential associations between NTM species found in drinking water and isolates from patients.
From Green Spaces to Squares: Mapping the Distribution of Taijiquan Organizations in London
Authors: Zhang Peng , Jin Yan , Gao Zhan , Ma Xiujie
Published: August 2021

Contributing to Taijiquan studies, this research uses spatial analysis tools in ArcGIS 10.3 and SPSS 23.0 to map out the spatial distributional pattern of the Taijiquan organizations in London, and then explores factors attributing to the spatial distribution of Taijiquan culture. The result shows that the distribution of Taijiquan organizations in London generally presents a spatial distribution structure of “dense center + sparse periphery”; the spatial distribution is unbalanced, showing a cohesive distribution; the directional distribution tends to be obvious in areas that are proximate to urban traffic arteries and afforestation in London. Through multivariate hierarchical regression analysis, the study explores the influential factors for the spatial distribution of Taijiquan organizations in London. The results show that: population size, economic level, and education level have little influence on the spatial distribution of Taijiquan organizations; however, the population density of people over 65 years old, the accessibility of public service facilities such as green spaces, and public urban traffic has a significant impact on the spatial distribution of Taijiquan organizations.
Relationship between Connective Tissue Morphology and Lower-Limb Stiffness in Endurance Runners. A Prospective Study
Authors: Rubio-Peirotén Alberto , García-Pinillos Felipe , Jaén-Carrillo Diego , Cartón-Llorente Antonio , Abat Ferrán , Roche-Seruendo Luis E.
Published: August 2021

Background: The lower limb behaves like a spring compressing and decompressing during running, where lower-limb stiffness is one of the most influential factors. This prospective observational study is aimed at examining the relationship between the connective tissue morphology and lower-limb stiffness and investigating whether the barefoot/shod condition influences on such relationship. Methods: 14 male amateur runners (10-km time trial <50′) were included. Data were recorded over one session, where participants ran 2 trials (i.e., barefoot and shod conditions) of 3 minutes at 12 km/h, where running spatiotemporal parameters and vertical (Kvert) and leg stiffness (Kleg) were obtained. Prior to testing trials, thickness and cross-sectional area (CSA) were recorded for Achilles (AT) and patellar tendons (PT) and plantar fascia (PF) with ultrasound. Results: Under barefoot condition, a positive correlation was found between Kleg and AT-thickness and CSA and PF-thickness; and between Kvert and AT-thickness and PF thickness. Under shod condition, a positive correlation was found between Kleg and PT-CSA and PT-thickness, and between Kvert and PT-CSA and PT-thickness. Conclusions: The results reveal a specificity of the relationship between the lower-limb stiffness and the morphology of the connective tissue. Greater tendon shows higher lower-limb stiffness when that tendon is specially demanded by the function.
Odiel River (SW Spain), a Singular Scenario Affected by Acid Mine Drainage (AMD): Graphical and Statistical Models to Assess Diatoms and Water Hydrogeochemistry Interactions
Authors: Grande José A. , Luís Ana Teresa , Córdoba Francisco , Leiva Mercedes , Dávila José Miguel , Fortes Juan Carlos , Santisteban María , Ferreira da Silva Eduardo , Sarmiento Aguasanta Miguel
Published: August 2021

The Odiel River (SW Spain) is one of the most cited rivers in the scientific literature due to its high pollution degree, generated by more than 80 sulphide mines’ (mostly unrestored) contamination in the Iberian Pyritic Belt (IPB), that have been exploited for more than 5000 years. Along the river and its tributaries, the physico-chemical parameters and diatoms, from 15 sampling points, were analyzed in the laboratory. Physico-chemical parameters, water chemical analysis, together with richness and Shannon–Wiener indexes were integrated in a matrix. An initial graphical treatment allowed the definition and proposal of a functioning system model, as well as the establishment of cause–effect relationships between pollution and its effects on biota. Then, the proposed model was statistically validated by factor analysis. For acidic pH waters, high values of Eh, TDS, sulphate, ∑REE and ∑Ficklin were found, while diatomologic indicators took low values. Thus, factor analysis was a very effective tool for graphical treatment validation as well as for pollution–biota interaction models’ formulation, governed by two factors: AMD processes and water balance suffered by the studied river. As a novelty, the cause–effect relationships between high barium concentration and low diversity and richness were demonstrated in the IPB, for the first time.
Toxic Effects of Inhaled Vanadium Attached to Particulate Matter: A Literature Review
Authors: Rojas-Lemus Marcela , López-Valdez Nelly , Bizarro-Nevares Patricia , González-Villalva Adriana , Ustarroz-Cano Martha , Zepeda-Rodríguez Armando , Pasos-Nájera Francisco , García-Peláez Isabel , Rivera-Fernández Norma , Fortoul Teresa I.
Published: August 2021

Environmental pollution is a worldwide problem recognized by the World Health Organization as a major health risk factor that affects low-, middle- and high-income countries. Suspended particulate matter is among the most dangerous pollutants, since it contains toxicologically relevant agents, such as metals, including vanadium. Vanadium is a transition metal that is emitted into the atmosphere especially by the burning of fossil fuels to which dwellers are exposed. The objective of this literature review is to describe the toxic effects of vanadium and its compounds when they enter the body by inhalation, based especially on the results of a murine experimental model that elucidates the systemic effects that vanadium has on living organisms. To achieve this goal, we reviewed 85 articles on the relevance of vanadium as a component of particulate matter and its toxic effects. Throughout several years of research with the murine experimental model, we have shown that this element generates adverse effects in all the systems evaluated, because it causes immunotoxicity, hematotoxicity, neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity and reprotoxicity, among other noxious effects. The results with this experimental model add evidence of the effects generated by environmental pollutants and increase the body of evidence that can lead us to make more intelligent environmental decisions for the welfare of all living beings.
Interventions for Workplace Violence Prevention in Emergency Departments: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wirth Tanja , Peters Claudia , Nienhaus Albert , Schablon Anja
Published: August 2021

Emergency departments (EDs) are high-risk settings for workplace violence, but interventions to prevent violent incidents and to prepare staff are not yet consistently implemented, and their effectiveness is often unclear. This study aims to summarise evidence on workplace violence prevention interventions that were implemented in EDs to reduce violent incidents caused by patients/relatives or to increase the knowledge, skills or feelings of safety of ED staff. A systematic review was conducted. The databases MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and PsycINFO were searched for studies dated between January 2010 and May 2021. Interventional and observational studies reporting on behavioural, organisational or environmental interventions among healthcare workers in hospital EDs were included. Studies were assessed for methodological quality using the Johanna Briggs Institute Tools. Key findings of studies were summarised narratively. Fifteen studies were included, of which eleven examined behavioural interventions (classroom, online or hybrid training programmes) on de-escalation skills, violent person management or self-defence techniques. Four studies included in addition, organisational and environmental interventions. Most studies showed that interventions had a positive effect in the form of a reduction of violent incidents or an improvement in how prepared staff were to deal with violent situations; however, evidence is still sparse. Further studies should consider in particular, environmental and organisational interventions and ensure a high methodological quality.
Dark Triad of Personality and Problematic Smartphone Use: A Preliminary Study on the Mediating Role of Fear of Missing Out
Authors: Servidio Rocco , Griffiths Mark D. , Demetrovics Zsolt
Published: August 2021

The present study examined whether the relationship between the Dark Triad (DT) of personality and problematic smartphone use (PSU) can be explained by the mediating role of fear of missing out (FoMO). The role of FoMO in this relationship has yet to be examined. A total of 457 participants completed an online survey. Results indicated that males scored high on measures assessing DT of personality, while females scored high on PSU. Structural equation modelling showed that narcissism was directly associated with PSU. FoMO partially mediated the association between narcissism and PSU. Machiavellianism and narcissism were directly associated with FoMO. In the fully mediated model, narcissism (but not Machiavellianism) was still associated with FoMO, and in turn, FoMO was related to PSU. Although preliminary, the results of the present study indicated that Machiavellianism and narcissism might represent antecedents of FoMO, in addition to the Big Five personality traits, and both could be involved in the development of PSU.
Differences in Social Determinants of Health between Urban Indigenous Migrants and Non-Indigenous People in North-Eastern Mexico: An Analysis to Prioritize
Authors: Núñez-Rocha Georgina Mayela , Esqueda-Eguía Brenda Mayela , Salinas-Martínez Ana María , Ávila-Ortiz María Natividad , Castro-Sánchez Ana Elisa , Zambrano-Moreno Adriana , Hernández-Ruiz Karina Janett
Published: August 2021

The degree to which social determinants of health differ between indigenous migrants and non-indigenous people born and raised locally is currently unknown. We compared social determinants of health between indigenous migrants and non-indigenous people from urban north-eastern Mexico. Additionally, we ranked priorities for addressing the negative social determinants of health. This was a population-based comparative cross-sectional study (n = 235 indigenous migrants and 168 non-indigenous people). A two-stage non-random sampling was carried out from June to August of 2019. Heads of households ≥18 years and those with the ability to communicate in Spanish were recruited house by house. Structural and intermediary determinants of health were identified according to the World Health Organization Conceptual Framework and priorities were ranked using Z-scores. Being a migrant indigenous increased 1.6 times the odds of low education (95% CI = 1.1, 2.4). In addition, the migrant indigenous status increased the odds of poor housing, unhealthy behaviour and low social cohesion (p < 0.05). Housing, behaviours and health service accessibility were top priorities for indigenous migrants and structural determinants for non-indigenous people. The findings show that the right to access the social determinants of health has not yet been guaranteed for indigenous communities.
Assessment of Copper and Heavy Metals in Family-Run Vineyard Soils and Wines of Campania Region, South Italy
Authors: Roviello Valentina , Caruso Ugo , Dal Poggetto Giovanni , Naviglio Daniele
Published: August 2021

Copper-based phytosanitary treatments are widely employed in viticulture for combating the fungal diseases of European grape (Vitis vinifera L.). Herein we evaluated copper accumulation in the soil of a 50-year-old still productive vineyard in South Italy in comparison with samples taken from a ‘control’ area in which grapevines had never been cultivated, as well from an abandoned vineyard, now planted with cereals and forage crops, both close to the main area under investigation. Even though the heavy metal contents detected were not of concern for soils nor for wine, Cu accumulates in the soil in amounts significantly higher than the (grapevine free) control and remains at detectable concentrations also in abandoned vineyards where spraying activities had ceased about 20 years before this study. Despite the long Cu residence times in soil, the wine produced with grapes of the same vineyard showed Cu levels low enough to be safely used for human consumption, probably due to mechanisms of metal precipitation occurring during wine maturation, which are typically accompanied by sedimentation processes in artisanal production. However, this should not diminish the urgency of decreasing the copper usage as antifungal remedy in viticulture to prevent copper contamination of the agricultural soils.
Assessing Uranium Pollution Levels in the Rietspruit River, Far West Rand Goldfield, South Africa
Authors: Raji Iyioluwa Busuyi , Hoffmann Emile , Ngie Adeline , Winde Frank
Published: August 2021

The Rietspruit is located in Gauteng Province, South Africa, within the Witwatersrand Basin. The basin is noted for its vast gold deposit. The river extends for about 60 km before joining the Vaal River. The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of uranium in the Rietspruit and the factors that influenced the concentration of U at each of the sites. The source of uranium in the river is the discharge from the gold mine and the mine wastes. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used for water and sediment analysis in order to determine the concentration of U. High concentration of U was found in the river water and sediment, which is above the permissible limit of U. The water is used for irrigation of farmlands, cattle watering and for human consumption despite the high concentration of uranium in it. Ingestion of uranium is dangerous to human health. Due to the toxic nature of uranium, consumption of the water for domestic use and agriculture purpose must be discouraged.
Why Victimized Employees Become Less Engaged at Work: An Integrated Model for Testing the Mediating Role of Sleep Quality
Authors: Chu Youngeun , Lee KiYoung , Kim Eung Il
Published: August 2021

Recent studies have shown that workplace victimization is negatively related to work engagement. The explanations for the underlying mechanisms, however, are still in a nascent stage. Drawing on the limited resource theory of self-regulation and research on workplace aggression and sleep, we develop and test an integrated model, which explains that victimized employees may have impaired sleep quality and thus have less energy and be less likely to be engaged in their work. The results of logistic regression and structural equation modeling analyses of large-scale survey data collected from 90,272 employees across the years 2010, 2011, 2014, and 2017, indicate that workplace victimization is negatively related to sleep quality and subsequent workplace engagement, even controlling for alternative explanations—job insecurity and basic psychological needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Our findings advance our knowledge on the detrimental consequences of workplace victimization and suggest that, while unmet basic psychological needs matter, impaired sleep quality is one reason why victimized employees find it difficult to engage at work.
Critical Success Factors of Safety Program Implementation in Construction Projects in Iraq
Authors: Buniya Mohanad Kamil , Othman Idris , Sunindijo Riza Yosia , Kashwani Ghanim , Durdyev Serdar , Ismail Syuhaida , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour , Li Heng
Published: August 2021

The construction sector is recognized as one of the most dangerous industries in the world. The situation is worsening in Iraq, as a result of a lack of attention to safety in the building industry and the poor implementation of safety programs. This research aims to identify the critical safety factors (CSFs) of safety program implementation in the Iraqi construction industry. The CSFs were first identified from a review of literature before being verified by construction practitioners, using semi-structured interviews. A questionnaire, based on the verified CSFs, was distributed to construction practitioners in Iraq. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to analyze the quantitative data, and the results show that the CSFs can be categorized into four constructs: worker involvement, safety prevention and control system, safety arrangement, and management commitment. Following that, partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was executed to establish the connection between safety program implementation and overall project success. The result confirms that safety program implementation has a significant, positive impact on project success. This article contributes to knowledge and practice by identifying the CSFs for implementing safety programs in the Iraqi construction industry. The successful implementation of a safety program not only improves safety performance, but also helps to meet other project goals.
Changes in Children’s Speech and Language Difficulties from Age Five to Nine: An Irish National, Longitudinal Study
Authors: McConkey Roy , Swift Ann , Titterington Jill
Published: August 2021

In many countries, information on the prevalence of persistent speech and language disorders in early childhood is sparse due to the lack of nationally representative samples and longitudinal studies. Secondary analysis of data collected on over 7500 Irish children at ages 5 and 9 years, found that the prevalence of speech and language difficulties reported by the primary caregivers of Irish children decreased from one in six at age 5 to one in 12 at age 9. However, one in 20 children were reported to have difficulties at both ages. Regression analysis compared children with difficulties at both age 5 and age 9 to those who had been reported to have them at age 5 but no longer had such difficulties at age 9. Children with speech and language difficulties at both age 5 and age 9 were more likely to have two or more developmental impairments as well as current or past hearing impairments. Teachers and parents also reported a greater number of social-emotional difficulties. Family characteristics did not differ significantly across the two groupings. At best, up to one third of the children at ages 5 and 9 with speech and language difficulties had two or more contacts with a speech and language therapists in the preceding 12 month period. Increased support to these children, their parents and teachers would seem to be warranted.
Potential Short-Term Air Pollution Effects on Rheumatoid Arthritis Activity in Metropolitan Areas in the North of Italy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ingegnoli Francesca , Ubiali Tania , Schioppo Tommaso , Longo Valentina , Murgo Antonella , De Lucia Orazio , Favalli Ennio , Iodice Simona , Bollati Valentina , Caporali Roberto
Published: August 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) flare is related to increased joint damage, disability, and healthcare use. The impact of short-term air pollution exposure on RA disease activity is still a matter of debate. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated whether short-term exposure to particulate matter (PM)10, PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) affected RA disease activity (DAS28 and SDAI) in 422 consecutive RA residents in Lombardy, North of Italy. Air pollutant concentrations, estimated by Regional Environmental Protection Agency (Lombardy—Italy) at the municipality level, were used to assign short-term exposure from the day of enrolment, back to seven days. Some significant negative associations emerged between RA disease activity, PM10, and NO2, whereas some positive associations were observed for O3. Patients were also stratified according to their ongoing Disease-Modifying anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) treatment: no DMARDs (n = 25), conventional synthetic DMARDs (n = 108), and biological or targeted synthetic DMARDs (n = 289). Therapy interaction seemed partially able to influence the relationship between short-term air pollution exposure and RA disease activity (PM2.5 levels and DAS28 at the day of the visit-O3 levels and disease activity scores for the seven days before the evaluation). According to our results, the impact of short-term air pollution exposure (seven days) minimally impacts disease activity. Moreover, our study suggests therapy could alter the response to environmental factors. Further evidence is needed to elucidate determinants of RA flare and its management.
Keratin-Alginate Sponges Support Healing of Partial-Thickness Burns
Authors: Moay Zi Kuang , Nguyen Luong T. H. , Hartrianti Pietradewi , Lunny Declan P. , Leavesley David , Kok Yee Onn , Chong Si Jack , Chua Alvin Wen Choong , Tee Shang-Ian , Ng Kee Woei
Published: August 2021

Deep partial-thickness burns damage most of the dermis and can cause severe pain, scarring, and mortality if left untreated. This study serves to evaluate the effectiveness of crosslinked keratin–alginate composite sponges as dermal substitutes for deep partial-thickness burns. Crosslinked keratin–alginate sponges were tested for the ability to support human dermal fibroblasts in vitro and to support the closure and healing of partial-thickness burn wounds in Sus scrofa pigs. Keratin–alginate composite sponges supported the enhanced proliferation of human dermal fibroblasts compared to alginate-only sponges and exhibited decreased contraction in vitro when compared to keratin only sponges. As dermal substitutes in vivo, the sponges supported the expression of keratin 14, alpha-smooth muscle actin, and collagen IV within wound sites, comparable to collagen sponges. Keratin–alginate composite sponges supported the regeneration of basement membranes in the wounds more than in collagen-treated wounds and non-grafted controls, suggesting the subsequent development of pathological scar tissues may be minimized. Results from this study indicate that crosslinked keratin–alginate sponges are suitable alternative dermal substitutes for clinical applications in wound healing and skin regeneration.
Novel 2-(Adamantan-1-ylamino)Thiazol-4(5H)-One Derivatives and Their Inhibitory Activity towards 11β-HSD1—Synthesis, Molecular Docking and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Studzińska Renata , Kupczyk Daria , Płaziński Wojciech , Baumgart Szymon , Bilski Rafał , Paprocka Renata , Kołodziejska Renata
Published: August 2021

A common mechanism in which glucocorticoids participate is suggested in the pathogenesis of such metabolic diseases as obesity, metabolic syndrome, or Cushing’s syndrome. The enzyme involved in the control of the availability of cortisol, the active form of the glucocorticoid for the glucocorticoid receptor, is 11β-HSD1. Inhibition of 11β-HSD1 activity may bring beneficial results for the alleviation of the course of metabolic diseases such as metabolic syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome or type 2 diabetes. In this work, we obtained 10 novel 2-(adamantan-1-ylamino)thiazol-4(5H)-one derivatives containing different substituents at C-5 of thiazole ring and tested their activity towards inhibition of two 11β-HSD isoforms. For most of them, over 50% inhibition of 11β-HSD1 and less than 45% inhibition of 11β-HSD2 activity at the concentration of 10 µM was observed. The binding energies found during docking simulations for 11β-HSD1 correctly reproduced the experimental IC50 values for analyzed compounds. The most active compound 2-(adamantan-1-ylamino)-1-thia-3-azaspiro[4.5]dec-2-en-4-one (3i) inhibits the activity of isoform 1 by 82.82%. This value is comparable to the known inhibitor-carbenoxolone. The IC50 value is twice the value determined by us for carbenoxolone, however inhibition of the enzyme isoform 2 to a lesser extent makes it an excellent material for further tests.
Suppression of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase by Dichloroacetate in Cancer and Skeletal Muscle Cells Is Isoform Specific and Partially Independent of HIF-1α
Authors: Škorja Milić Nives , Dolinar Klemen , Miš Katarina , Matkovič Urška , Bizjak Maruša , Pavlin Mojca , Podbregar Matej , Pirkmajer Sergej
Published: August 2021

Inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) emerged as a potential strategy for treatment of cancer and metabolic disorders. Dichloroacetate (DCA), a prototypical PDK inhibitor, reduces the abundance of some PDK isoenzymes. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully characterized and may differ across cell types. We determined that DCA reduced the abundance of PDK1 in breast (MDA-MB-231) and prostate (PC-3) cancer cells, while it suppressed both PDK1 and PDK2 in skeletal muscle cells (L6 myotubes). The DCA-induced PDK1 suppression was partially dependent on hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), a transcriptional regulator of PDK1, in cancer cells but not in L6 myotubes. However, the DCA-induced alterations in the mRNA and the protein levels of PDK1 and/or PDK2 did not always occur in parallel, implicating a role for post-transcriptional mechanisms. DCA did not inhibit the mTOR signaling, while inhibitors of the proteasome or gene silencing of mitochondrial proteases CLPP and AFG3L2 did not prevent the DCA-induced reduction of the PDK1 protein levels. Collectively, our results suggest that DCA reduces the abundance of PDK in an isoform-dependent manner via transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. Differential response of PDK isoenzymes to DCA might be important for its pharmacological effects in different types of cells.
Selection of Highly Proliferative and Multipotent Meniscus Progenitors through Differential Adhesion to Fibronectin: A Novel Approach in Meniscus Tissue Engineering
Authors: Korpershoek Jasmijn V. , Rikkers Margot , de Windt Tommy S. , Tryfonidou Marianna A. , Saris Daniel B. F. , Vonk Lucienne A.
Published: August 2021

Meniscus injuries can be highly debilitating and lead to knee osteoarthritis. Progenitor cells from the meniscus could be a superior cell type for meniscus repair and tissue-engineering. The purpose of this study is to characterize meniscus progenitor cells isolated by differential adhesion to fibronectin (FN-prog). Human osteoarthritic menisci were digested, and FN-prog were selected by differential adhesion to fibronectin. Multilineage differentiation, population doubling time, colony formation, and MSC surface markers were assessed in the FN-prog and the total meniscus population (Men). Colony formation was compared between outer and inner zone meniscus digest. Chondrogenic pellet cultures were performed for redifferentiation. FN-prog demonstrated multipotency. The outer zone FN-prog formed more colonies than the inner zone FN-prog. FN-prog displayed more colony formation and a higher proliferation rate than Men. FN-prog redifferentiated in pellet culture and mostly adhered to the MSC surface marker profile, except for HLA-DR receptor expression. This is the first study that demonstrates differential adhesion to fibronectin for the isolation of a progenitor-like population from the meniscus. The high proliferation rates and ability to form meniscus extracellular matrix upon redifferentiation, together with the broad availability of osteoarthritis meniscus tissue, make FN-prog a promising cell type for clinical translation in meniscus tissue-engineering.
The Underlying Nature of Epigenetic Variation: Origin, Establishment, and Regulatory Function of Plant Epialleles
Authors: Srikant Thanvi , Tri Wibowo Anjar
Published: August 2021

In plants, the gene expression and associated phenotypes can be modulated by dynamic changes in DNA methylation, occasionally being fixed in certain genomic loci and inherited stably as epialleles. Epiallelic variations in a population can occur as methylation changes at an individual cytosine position, methylation changes within a stretch of genomic regions, and chromatin changes in certain loci. Here, we focus on methylated regions, since it is unclear whether variations at individual methylated cytosines can serve any regulatory function, and the evidence for heritable chromatin changes independent of genetic changes is limited. While DNA methylation is known to affect and regulate wide arrays of plant phenotypes, most epialleles in the form of methylated regions have not been assigned any biological function. Here, we review how epialleles can be established in plants, serve a regulatory function, and are involved in adaptive processes. Recent studies suggest that most epialleles occur as byproducts of genetic variations, mainly from structural variants and Transposable Element (TE) activation. Nevertheless, epialleles that occur spontaneously independent of any genetic variations have also been described across different plant species. Here, we discuss how epialleles that are dependent and independent of genetic architecture are stabilized in the plant genome and how methylation can regulate a transcription relative to its genomic location.
Toward Understanding the Mechanisms of Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor Development
Authors: Mohamad Teddy , Plante Camille , Brosseau Jean-Philippe
Published: August 2021

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) originate from the neural crest lineage and are associated with the neurofibromatosis type I syndrome. MPNST is an unmet clinical need. In this review article, we summarize the knowledge and discuss research perspectives related to (1) the natural history of MPNST development; (2) the mouse models recapitulating the progression from precursor lesions to MPNST; (3) the role of the tumor microenvironment in MPNST development, and (4) the signaling pathways linked to MPNST development.
Insight into the Characteristics of Novel Desmin-Immunopositive Perivascular Cells of the Anterior Pituitary Gland Using Transmission and Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Jindatip Depicha , Poh Rebecca Wan-Yan , Fujiwara Ken
Published: August 2021

Recently, another new cell type was found in the perivascular space called a novel desmin-immunopositive perivascular (DIP) cell. However, the differences between this novel cell type and other nonhormone-producing cells have not been clarified. Therefore, we introduced several microscopic techniques to gain insight into the morphological characteristics of this novel DIP cell. We succeeded in identifying novel DIP cells under light microscopy using desmin immunocryosection, combining resin embedding blocks and immunoelectron microscopy. In conventional transmission electron microscopy, folliculostellate cells, capsular fibroblasts, macrophages, and pericytes presented a flat cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, whereas those of novel DIP cells had a dilated pattern. The number of novel DIP cells was greatest in the intact rats, though nearly disappeared under prolactinoma conditions. Additionally, focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy showed that these novel DIP cells had multidirectional processes and some processes reached the capillary, but these processes did not tightly wrap the vessel, as is the case with pericytes. Interestingly, we found that the rough endoplasmic reticulum was globular and dispersed throughout the cytoplasmic processes after three-dimensional reconstruction. This study clearly confirms that novel DIP cells are a new cell type in the rat anterior pituitary gland, with unique characteristics.
Evaluation of Class IIa Histone Deacetylases Expression and In Vivo Epigenetic Imaging in a Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chen Yi-An , Lu Cheng-Hsiu , Ke Chien-Chih , Chiu Sain-Jhih , Chang Chi-Wei , Yang Bang-Hung , Gelovani Juri G. , Liu Ren-Shyan
Published: August 2021

Epigenetic regulation by histone deacetylase (HDAC) is associated with synaptic plasticity and memory formation, and its aberrant expression has been linked to cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study aimed to investigate the role of class IIa HDAC expression in AD and monitor it in vivo using a novel radiotracer, 6-(tri-fluoroacetamido)-1-hexanoicanilide ([18F]TFAHA). A human neural cell culture model with familial AD (FAD) mutations was established and used for in vitro assays. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with [18F]TFAHA was performed in a 3xTg AD mouse model for in vivo evaluation. The results showed a significant increase in HDAC4 expression in response to amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition in the cell model. Moreover, treatment with an HDAC4 selective inhibitor significantly upregulated the expression of neuronal memory-/synaptic plasticity-related genes. In [18F]TFAHA-PET imaging, whole brain or regional uptake was significantly higher in 3xTg AD mice compared with WT mice at 8 and 11 months of age. Our study demonstrated a correlation between class IIa HDACs and Aβs, the therapeutic benefit of a selective inhibitor, and the potential of using [18F]TFAHA as an epigenetic radiotracer for AD, which might facilitate the development of AD-related neuroimaging approaches and therapies.
Thyroid Hormone Induces Ca2+-Mediated Mitochondrial Activation in Brown Adipocytes
Authors: Nguyen Minh-Hanh Thi , Ly Dat Da , Nguyen Nhung Thi , Qi Xu-Feng , Yi Hyon-Seung , Shong Minho , Cha Seung-Kuy , Park Sangkyu , Park Kyu-Sang
Published: August 2021

Thyroid hormones, including 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3), cause a wide spectrum of genomic effects on cellular metabolism and bioenergetic regulation in various tissues. The non-genomic actions of T3 have been reported but are not yet completely understood. Acute T3 treatment significantly enhanced basal, maximal, ATP-linked, and proton-leak oxygen consumption rates (OCRs) of primary differentiated mouse brown adipocytes accompanied with increased protein abundances of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) and mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU). T3 treatment depolarized the resting mitochondrial membrane potential (Ψm) but augmented oligomycin-induced hyperpolarization in brown adipocytes. Protein kinase B (AKT) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) were activated by T3, leading to the inhibition of autophagic degradation. Rapamycin, as an mTOR inhibitor, blocked T3-induced autophagic suppression and UCP1 upregulation. T3 increases intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in brown adipocytes. Most of the T3 effects, including mTOR activation, UCP1 upregulation, and OCR increase, were abrogated by intracellular Ca2+ chelation with BAPTA-AM. Calmodulin inhibition with W7 or knockdown of MCU dampened T3-induced mitochondrial activation. Furthermore, edelfosine, a phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor, prevented T3 from acting on [Ca2+]i, UCP1 abundance, Ψm, and OCR. We suggest that short-term exposure of T3 induces UCP1 upregulation and mitochondrial activation due to PLC-mediated [Ca2+]i elevation in brown adipocytes.