bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Physical Activity, Anxiety, Resilience and Engagement on the Optimism of Older Adults
Authors: Martínez-Moreno Alfonso , Ibáñez-Pérez Ricardo José , Cavas-García F Francisco , Cano-Noguera Francisco
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study was to learn how physical activity, anxiety, resilience and engagement can influence optimism in older adults. An observational, quantitative, descriptive and transversal design was used with non-probabilistic sampling. A descriptive statistical analysis of the sample, Cronbach’s alpha test of internal consistency and linear correlation using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) were performed. In addition, a t-Student test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kolmogorov–Smirnov test of normality and Levene test of homogeneity, as well as a multivariate linear regression model, were conducted. Participants who had not engaged in physical activity showed an increased total anxiety and significantly greater decrease in concentration compared to those who had engaged in physical activity. The Revised Life Orientation Test (LOT-R), Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) and resilience of participants who had not engaged in physical activity were significantly lower than those of the participants who had engaged in physical activity. Those with a partner showed significantly lower decreases in concentration compared to single women. Regarding UWES, the current scores and dedication of couples were significantly higher than singles, as for resilience. In addition, the levels of pessimism in participants living on the coast were significantly higher compared to those living inland; in addition, a greater number of days with less anxiety is seen in those who performed physical activity. A multivariate linear regression model, F(7, 349) = 30.6, p < 0.001, explained 38% of the variance of LOT-R; those attending a public center had a lower LOT-R than those who did not, and high values of anxiety were associated with low levels of LOT-R, while high values of resilience were associated with high values of LOT-R. The results from the study provide support for future programs for older adults, in order to be able to determine in a much more precise way the objectives of programs intended for users of this age group.
A Social Ecological Approach to Hazardous Alcohol Use among Flemish Higher Education Students
Authors: Tholen Robert , Wouters Edwin , Ponnet Koen , De Bruyn Sara , Van Hal Guido
Published: November 2020

Hazardous use of alcohol is a global public health concern. Statistics suggest that this is particularly common in Europe, and among higher education students. Although it has been established that various factors—ranging from the individual to the overarching societal level—are associated with misuse of alcohol, few studies take multiple levels of influence into account simultaneously. The current study, therefore, used a social ecological framework to explore associations between variables from multiple levels of influence and the hazardous use of alcohol. Data were obtained from a representative sample of higher education students from Flanders, Belgium (n = 21,854), and explored using hierarchical multiple regression analyses. The results demonstrated that the individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy levels, were all associated with risky alcohol consumption. When devising interventions, policymakers should, therefore, take into consideration that variables from multiple levels of influence are at play. Students’ capacities to change or maintain their alcohol consumption behaviors may be undermined if social settings, overarching environments, social norms, and policies are not conducive to their motivations and social expectations.
Predictive Performance Models in Long-Distance Runners: A Narrative Review
Authors: Alvero-Cruz José , Carnero Elvis , García Manuel , Alacid Fernando , Correas-Gómez Lorena , Rosemann Thomas , Nikolaidis Pantelis , Knechtle Beat
Published: November 2020

Physiological variables such as maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), velocity at maximal oxygen uptake (vVO2max), running economy (RE) and changes in lactate levels are considered the main factors determining performance in long-distance races. The aim of this review was to present the mathematical models available in the literature to estimate performance in the 5000 m, 10,000 m, half-marathon and marathon events. Eighty-eight articles were identified, selections were made based on the inclusion criteria and the full text of the articles were obtained. The articles were reviewed and categorized according to demographic, anthropometric, exercise physiology and field test variables were also included by athletic specialty. A total of 58 studies were included, from 1983 to the present, distributed in the following categories: 12 in the 5000 m, 13 in the 10,000 m, 12 in the half-marathon and 21 in the marathon. A total of 136 independent variables associated with performance in long-distance races were considered, 43.4% of which pertained to variables derived from the evaluation of aerobic metabolism, 26.5% to variables associated with training load and 20.6% to anthropometric variables, body composition and somatotype components. The most closely associated variables in the prediction models for the half and full marathon specialties were the variables obtained from the laboratory tests (VO2max, vVO2max), training variables (training pace, training load) and anthropometric variables (fat mass, skinfolds). A large gap exists in predicting time in long-distance races, based on field tests. Physiological effort assessments are almost exclusive to shorter specialties (5000 m and 10,000 m). The predictor variables of the half-marathon are mainly anthropometric, but with moderate coefficients of determination. The variables of note in the marathon category are fundamentally those associated with training and those derived from physiological evaluation and anthropometric parameters.
Correlates of the Mental Fitness of Female High School Freshmen: Focus on Multidimensional Empathy and Brain Function
Authors: Weon Hee Wook , Lim Jiyoung , Son Hae Kyoung
Published: November 2020

We examined the association between multidimensional empathy, brain function, and mental fitness and identified correlates of mental fitness. In total, 146 female high school freshmen from a South Korean school participated in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected from March to April 2019, using a self-report questionnaire and quantitative electro-encephalographic data (QEEG). Instruments included the Interpersonal Reactivity Index and the Mental Fitness Scale, to access multidimensional empathy and mental fitness. Prefrontal cortex brain function was assessed with the brain quotient measure from the QEEG during free time after school. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis. Mental fitness had statistically significant relationships with multidimensional empathy (r = 0.36, p < 0.001) and brain quotient (r = 0.23, p = 0.005). Demographic factors affecting mental fitness included satisfaction with school life (β = 0.23, p = 0.001) and economic status (β = 0.17, p = 0.024). Factors from the subscales of multidimensional empathy included perspective taking (β = 0.26, p = 0.001), fantasy (β = 0.22, p = 0.004), and personal distress (β = −0.19, p = 0.010); and the brain function factor was brain quotient (β = 0.14, p = 0.038). The explanatory power of the model was 49.4% (F = 14.44, p < 0.001). There is a need for a concrete and objective understanding of mental fitness in adolescents to develop intervention programs for freshmen with various maladaptation problems.
Combination of 137Cs and 210Pb Radioactive Atmospheric Fallouts to Estimate Soil Erosion for the Same Time Scale
Authors: Gharbi Foued , AlSheddi Torfa Hamad , Ben Ammar Rebai , Ahmed El-Naggar Medhat
Published: November 2020

Naturally occurring 210Pb and artificial 137Cs fallouts are widely used as radioactive tracers for the determination of water-induced soil erosion for different time scales equal to 50 and 100 years, respectively. There exist several calibration models useful to convert the variation of the inventory of these radiotracers in cultivated soil compared to its value on non-disturbed soil to a soil erosion rate. The most comprehensive calibration models are based on a mass balance approach. In the present work, a new calibration model is proposed. It consists on the generalization of the mass balance approach to a cultivated soil subject to two successive and continuous periods of cultivation. The proposed model combines 210Pb and 137Cs fallouts for the same time scale by relaxing the constraint on 210Pb fallout from being used for 100 years’ time scale. The model was applied successfully to hypothetical cases and can be used to measure soil erosion rates for practical cases. It is important to note that the proposed model has two main advantages. First, the complementarity between 210Pb and 137Cs fallouts is for the same time scale and not for different time scales, as usually considered and believed in this field. Second, 210Pb fallout is used for time scales less than 100 years. This makes the model useful to estimate soil erosion rates for two successive periods of cultivation. To the best knowledge of the authors, the combination of 210Pb and 137Cs fallouts for the determination of soil erosion rate variation due to change in cultivation practices for the same time scale has never been developed or applied in the past.
Cancer Prevention: Knowledge, Attitudes and Lifestyle Cancer-Related Behaviors among Adolescents in Italy
Authors: Di Giuseppe Gabriella , Pelullo Concetta , Mitidieri Maria , Lioi Giuseppe , Pavia Maria
Published: November 2020

This study explores knowledge, attitudes and lifestyle behaviors related to cancer in a sample of adolescents. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. 871 adolescents agreed to participate, with a response rate of 96.8%. Only 26.1% had a good level of knowledge on most risk factors for cancer. Adolescents with both parents employed, with a personal, familiar or friend history of cancer or having received information about cancer prevention from a physician, were more likely to have good knowledge about the risk factors for cancer. In total, 41% of participants declared that they consumed alcohol and 25.3% declared they were current smokers, 19.2% consumed fruits or vegetables more than once a day and 75.2% reported poor physical activity. Older adolescents, with a personal, familiar or friend history of cancer, not having one parent in the healthcare sector or not physically active were significantly more likely to be current smokers, whereas physical activity was significantly more likely in adolescents who had been informed by physicians on cancer prevention, and had one parent in the healthcare sector. This study highlights a need for improved education of adolescents about cancer prevention and lifestyle cancer-related behaviors.
The Association between Type and Intensity of Sport and Tobacco or Nicotine Use—A Cross-Sectional Study among Young Swiss Men
Authors: Gossin Marine , Gmel Gerhard , Studer Joseph , Saubade Mathieu , Clair Carole
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to assess the association between tobacco/nicotine use and type and intensity of sport. Data were drawn from the second follow-up of the Cohort Study on Substance Use Risk Factors. Young Swiss men completed a questionnaire about tobacco/nicotine use (cigarette, vaping, snus, snuff), type and intensity of sport and other demographic and medical variables. Among the 5414 included participants (mean age 25.5), 3434 (63.4%) reported regularly practicing a sport. They had a lower rate of cigarette smoking (32.3%) compared with participants not practicing a sport (44.6%) but a higher rate of snus use (15.0% vs. 10.0%). In adjusted models, individual-sport participants were less likely to use snus and snuff (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.51–0.77 and OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.61–0.88), compared with team-sport participants. The association was inversed for vaping users (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.03–2.30). Furthermore, participants who practiced high-intensity sports had a lower likelihood to smoke cigarettes (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.52–0.78) compared with low-intensity sports. Our findings suggest that type and intensity of sport are associated with tobacco/nicotine use. Youth who practice an individual sport are less likely to use snus or snuff and more likely to vape compared with a team sport. This could help better target smoking prevention in young people
A Comparison between Elite Swimmers and Kayakers on Upper Body Push and Pull Strength and Power Performance
Authors: Bartolomei Sandro , Gatta Giorgio , Cortesi Matteo
Published: November 2020

The aim of the present study was to compare the load-power curve expressed at bench press (PR) and prone bench pull (PU) between elite swimmers and kayakers. Another aim was to calculate the strength and power PR/PU ratio in the same populations. Fifteen elite swimmers (SW: age = 23.8 ± 2.9 y; body mass = 82.8 ± 5.6 kg; body height = 184.1 ± 4.6 cm) and 13 elite kayakers (KA: age = 23.8 ± 2.9 y; body mass = 91.0 ± 3.5 kg; body height = 180.1 ± 5.4 cm) were assessed for PR 1RM and PU 1RM. They were then assessed for power produced at 40, 60 and 80% of 1RM in both PR and PU. The area under the load-power curve (AUC) and PR/PU ratios were calculated for both the SW and KA groups. The KA group showed significantly higher PR1RM (+18.2%; p = 0.002) and PU1RM (+25.7%; p < 0.001) compared to the SW group. Significant group differences were also detected for PUAUC (p < 0.001) and for the PR/PU power ratio (p < 0.001). No significant group differences were detected for PRAUC (p = 0.605) and for the PR/PU strength ratio (p = 0.065; 0.87 and 0.82 in SW and KA, respectively). The present findings indicate that elite KA were stronger and more powerful than elite SW in the upper body. Not consistently with other athletic populations, both KA and SW athletes were stronger and more powerful in upper body pull compared to push moves.
Clinical Utility of an Internet-Delivered Version of the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (iUP-A): A Pilot Open Trial
Authors: Sandín Bonifacio , García-Escalera Julia , Valiente Rosa M. , Espinosa Victoria , Chorot Paloma
Published: November 2020

The Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (UP-A) has been shown to be effective for reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in adolescents with emotional disorders. Internet-delivered psychological treatments have great potential to improve access to evidence-based psychological therapy since they are associated with reduced human and economic costs and less social stigma. Recently, our group developed an online version of the UP-A (the iUP-A) for the treatment of emotional disorders in adolescents. The aim of this pilot trial was to test the clinical utility of the iUP-A in a small sample (n = 12) of adolescents with elevated anxiety and/or depressive symptoms. Intention-to-treat and completer analyses revealed pre- to post-intervention self-reported decreases of anxiety and depressive symptoms, anxiety sensitivity, emotional avoidance, panic disorder symptoms, panic disorder severity, generalized anxiety disorder symptoms, pathological worry, and major depressive disorder symptoms. We found high feasibility and acceptability of the program with all participants and responsible parents reporting an improvement in the adolescents’ ability to cope with emotions. Results suggest that the iUP-A may provide a new approach to improve access to treatment for anxious and depressive adolescents in Spain; however, further research must be conducted before firm conclusions can be drawn.
Resistance Exercise Regulates Hepatic Lipolytic Factors as Effective as Aerobic Exercise in Obese Mice
Authors: Bae Ju Yong
Published: November 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with obesity. The effect of resistance exercise without dietary restriction on the regulation of hepatic lipolytic factors is unclear. This study aimed to analyze the effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on hepatic lipolytic factors of obese mice. High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice were divided into HFD + sedentary (HF), HFD + aerobic exercise, and HFD + resistance exercise groups. Exercise group mice were subjected to treadmill or ladder climbing exercise for 8 weeks. Fat mass and liver triglycerides were significantly decreased in both aerobic and resistance training groups. In the results of protein levels related to hepatic steatosis, HFD significantly increased liver cannabinoid receptor 1 and sterol-regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP-1). Both aerobic and resistance training significantly (p < 0.05) increased liver carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1, phosphor-AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK), and p-AMPK/AMPK and decreased liver SREBP-1. However, the type of exercise did not exert any significant effects on these protein levels. Thus, resistance exercise, similarly to aerobic exercise, effectively regulated hepatic lipolytic factors of obese mice. Therefore, a sustainable type of exercise selected based on the fitness level, disease type, musculoskeletal disorder status, and preference of the patients is the best exercise intervention for alleviating NAFLD.
Application of Managed Entry Agreements for Innovative Therapies in Different Settings and Combinations: A Feasibility Analysis
Authors: A Vreman Rick , F Broekhoff Thomas , GM Leufkens Hubert , K Mantel-Teeuwisse Aukje , G Goettsch Wim
Published: November 2020

The reimbursement of expensive, innovative therapies poses a challenge to healthcare systems. This study investigated the feasibility of managed entry agreements (MEAs) for innovative therapies in different settings and combinations. First, a systematic literature review included studies describing used or conceptual agreements between payers and manufacturers (i.e., MEAs). Identical and similar MEAs were clustered and data were extracted on their benefits and limitations. A feasibility assessment was performed for each individual MEA based on how it could be applied (financial/outcome-based), on what level (individual patients/target population), in which payment setting (centralized pricing and reimbursement authority yes/no), for what type of therapies (one-time/chronic), within what payment structures, and whether combinations with other MEAs were feasible. The literature search ultimately included 82 papers describing 117 MEAs. After clustering, 15 unique MEAs remained, each describing one or multiple similar agreements. Four of those entailed payment structures, while eleven entailed agreements between payers and manufacturers regarding price, usage, and/or evidence generation. The feasibility assessment indicated that most agreements could be applied throughout the different settings that were assessed and could be applied in different payment structures and in combination with multiple other agreements. The potential to combine multiple agreements leads to a multitude of different reimbursement mechanisms that may manage the price, usage, payment structure, and additional conditions for an innovative therapy. This overview of the feasibility of combinations of MEAs can help decision-makers construct a reimbursement mechanism most suited to their preferences, the type of therapy under evaluation, and the applicable healthcare system.
Soil Microfungi of the Colombian Natural Regions
Authors: Landínez-Torres Angela Yaneth , Becerra Abril Jessika Lucia , Tosi Solveig , Nicola Lidia
Published: November 2020

Although Colombia was one of the first tropical countries where an effort was made to gather mycological flora, contributions to the taxonomy, diversity, and ecology of soil microfungi are still scarce. In this study, the diversity of soil microfungi was studied collecting data from literature according to the Colombian natural regions: Andean, Amazonian, Caribbean, Orinoquía, Pacific, and Insular. The majority of the records comes from the Andean region, the most accessible to research. The other regions have been much less studied, with the Insular one with no data at all. International literature reported, up to now, ca. 300 different species of soil microfungi belonging to 126 different genera and 6 phyla (Ascomycota, Basidiomycota Mucoromycota, Glomeromycota, Mortierellomycota, and Olpidiomycota). Vescicular-Arbuscular fungi were widely investigated with Acaulospora and Glomus, the most recorded genera with ca. 20 species each. Ascomycota was the most diverse phylum with Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Fusarium representing the majority. Mortierella is strongly present in Mortierellomycota, and in the panorama of all recorded fungi, too. The other phyla and genera were less recorded. It is, therefore, evident the need to continue studying the soil microfungi in Colombia to have a better understanding of soil functioning and its ecosystem services.
Octopus Watch Fosters Family Resilience by Enhancing Occupational Engagement for Children with Spina Bifida and/or Hydrocephalus: Pilot Study
Authors: Jennings Mark , Guilfoyle Aoife , Green James , Cleary Yvonne , Gowran Rosemary Joan
Published: November 2020

Background: Children with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus (SB&/H) often experience difficulties with activities of daily living (ADLs) due to impaired executive functioning, increasing sedentary behaviours. The HeyJoy Octopus watch, a child-friendly icon-based smartwatch could be used as an enabler to promote purposeful ADLs (i.e., goal-orientated ADLs). Objective: to investigate the effectiveness of the Octopus watch in promoting purposeful ADLs for children living with SB&/H (<8 years). Methods: Mixed-methods engaging parents and children in four phases: (1) Administered demographic questionnaire, semi-structured interview, childhood executive functioning inventory (CHEXI) and the Canadian occupational performance measure (COPM); focus group one introducing the study, information pack using smartwatch and photovoice data collection methods. (2) Measured baseline movement for four days with smartwatch without using functions. (3) Measured activity for 16-days while using the smartwatch. (4) Re-administered assessments and conducted a second focus group based on photovoice narratives. Results: movement data recorded for four participants, three of four showed mean activity increase (36%). N-of-1 analyses found one participant showed clear improvement (p = 0.021, r2 = 0.28). Mean inhibition decreased by 16.4%, and mean change in COPM performance and satisfaction scores were 2.1 and 2.4, respectively. The photovoice narrative focus group supports findings evidenced with improved daily routines. Conclusions: The Octopus watch is an innovative early intervention that can promote purposeful ADLs, fostering family resilience by enhancing occupational engagement. Further research is required.
Advances and Challenges in the Breeding of Salt-Tolerant Rice
Authors: Qin Hua , Li Yuxiang , Huang Rongfeng
Published: November 2020

Soil salinization and a degraded ecological environment are challenging agricultural productivity and food security. Rice (Oryza sativa), the staple food of much of the world’s population, is categorized as a salt-susceptible crop. Improving the salt tolerance of rice would increase the potential of saline-alkali land and ensure food security. Salt tolerance is a complex quantitative trait. Biotechnological efforts to improve the salt tolerance of rice hinge on a detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying salt stress tolerance. In this review, we summarize progress in the breeding of salt-tolerant rice and in the mapping and cloning of genes and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with salt tolerance in rice. Furthermore, we describe biotechnological tools that can be used to cultivate salt-tolerant rice, providing a reference for efforts aimed at rapidly and precisely cultivating salt-tolerance rice varieties.
The Regulation of Ferroptosis by Tumor Suppressor p53 and its Pathway
Authors: Liu Juan , Zhang Cen , Wang Jianming , Hu Wenwei , Feng Zhaohui
Published: November 2020

Tumor suppressor p53 plays a key role in tumor suppression. In addition to tumor suppression, p53 is also involved in many other biological and pathological processes, such as immune response, maternal reproduction, tissue ischemia/reperfusion injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. While it has been widely accepted that the role of p53 in regulation of cell cycle arrest, senescence and apoptosis contributes greatly to the function of p53 in tumor suppression, emerging evidence has implicated that p53 also exerts its tumor suppressive function through regulation of many other cellular processes, such as metabolism, anti-oxidant defense and ferroptosis. Ferroptosis is a unique iron-dependent form of programmed cell death driven by lipid peroxidation in cells. Ferroptosis has been reported to be involved in cancer, tissue ischemia/reperfusion injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis can be regulated by p53 and its signaling pathway as well as tumor-associated mutant p53. Interestingly, the regulation of ferroptosis by p53 appears to be highly context-dependent. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the regulation of ferroptosis by p53 and its signaling pathway. Further elucidation of the role and molecular mechanism of p53 in ferroptosis regulation will yield new therapeutic strategies for cancer and other diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases and tissue ischemia/reperfusion injuries.
Phenotypic and Functional Characteristics of Exosomes Derived from Irradiated Mouse Organs and Their Role in the Mechanisms Driving Non-Targeted Effects
Authors: Tuncay Cagatay Seda , Mayah Ammar , Mancuso Mariateresa , Giardullo Paola , Pazzaglia Simonetta , Saran Anna , Daniel Amuthachelvi , Traynor Damien , Meade Aidan D. , Lyng Fiona , Tapio Soile , Kadhim Munira
Published: November 2020

Molecular communication between irradiated and unirradiated neighbouring cells initiates radiation-induced bystander effects (RIBE) and out-of-field (abscopal) effects which are both an example of the non-targeted effects (NTE) of ionising radiation (IR). Exosomes are small membrane vesicles of endosomal origin and newly identified mediators of NTE. Although exosome-mediated changes are well documented in radiation therapy and oncology, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the role of exosomes derived from inside and outside the radiation field in the early and delayed induction of NTE following IR. Therefore, here we investigated the changes in exosome profile and the role of exosomes as possible molecular signalling mediators of radiation damage. Exosomes derived from organs of whole body irradiated (WBI) or partial body irradiated (PBI) mice after 24 h and 15 days post-irradiation were transferred to recipient mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells and changes in cellular viability, DNA damage and calcium, reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide signalling were evaluated compared to that of MEF cells treated with exosomes derived from unirradiated mice. Taken together, our results show that whole and partial-body irradiation increases the number of exosomes, instigating changes in exosome-treated MEF cells, depending on the source organ and time after exposure.
Advanced Medical Therapies in the Management of Non-Scarring Alopecia: Areata and Androgenic Alopecia
Authors: Martinez-Lopez Antonio , Montero-Vilchez Trinidad , Sierra-Sánchez Álvaro , Molina-Leyva Alejandro , Arias-Santiago Salvador
Published: November 2020

Alopecia is a challenging condition for both physicians and patients. Several topical, intralesional, oral, and surgical treatments have been developed in recent decades, but some of those therapies only provide partial improvement. Advanced medical therapies are medical products based on genes, cells, and/or tissue engineering products that have properties in regenerating, repairing, or replacing human tissue. In recent years, numerous applications have been described for advanced medical therapies. With this background, those therapies may have a role in the treatment of various types of alopecia such as alopecia areata and androgenic alopecia. The aim of this review is to provide dermatologists an overview of the different advanced medical therapies that have been applied in the treatment of alopecia, by reviewing clinical and basic research studies as well as ongoing clinical trials.
Letrozole Suppresses the Fusion of Osteoclast Precursors through Inhibition of p38-Mediated DC-STAMP Pathway
Authors: Kim Hyung Joon , Seong Hwa-Sik , Choi YunJeong , Heo Soon Chul , Kim Yong-Deok
Published: November 2020

Letrozole is a reversible nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor that is widely used in postmenopausal breast cancer patients. It is well established that letrozole decreases bone density owing to estrogen depletion; however, few studies have reported its direct effect on bone cells in vitro. Therefore, we investigated the effect of letrozole on bone metabolism, focusing on osteoclastogenesis. Letrozole did not affect the viability, proliferation, or migration of bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs); however, it reduced the multinucleation of immature osteoclasts and subsequent bone resorption in vitro. Overall, letrozole inhibited the expression of dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, calcitonin receptor, and cathepsin K. Among them, the reduced expression of DC-STAMP was the most prominent. However, this downregulation of DC-STAMP expression following letrozole treatment was not related to the inhibition of major osteoclastogenesis pathways, such as the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), c-Fos, and nuclear factor of activated T cell c1 (NFATc1) pathways, but was attributed to the inhibition of p38, which is known to reside upstream of DC-STAMP expression. Notably, the anti-osteoclastogenic effect of letrozole was abolished following treatment with the p38 activator anisomycin. Contrary to our expectations, these results strongly suggest a previously unknown anti-osteoclastogenic activity of letrozole, mediated by the downregulation of the p38/DC-STAMP pathway.
Platelet-Reactive Antibodies in Patients after Ischaemic Stroke—An Epiphenomenon or a Natural Protective Mechanism
Authors: Park Young Eun , Penumarthy Rushi , Sun Paul P. , Kang Caroline Y. , Morel-Kopp Marie-Christine , Downing Jonathan , Green Taryn N. , Immanuel Tracey , Ward Christopher M. , Young Deborah , During Matthew J. , Barber P. Alan , Kalev-Zylinska Maggie L.
Published: November 2020

Ischaemic brain damage induces autoimmune responses, including the production of autoantibodies with potential neuroprotective effects. Platelets share unexplained similarities with neurons, and the formation of anti-platelet antibodies has been documented in neurological disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of anti-platelet antibodies in the peripheral blood of patients after ischaemic stroke and determine any clinical correlations. Using a flow cytometry-based platelet immunofluorescence method, we detected platelet-reactive antibodies in 15 of 48 (31%) stroke patients and two of 50 (4%) controls (p < 0.001). Western blotting revealed heterogeneous reactivities with platelet proteins, some of which overlapped with brain proteins. Stroke patients who carried anti-platelet antibodies presented with larger infarcts and more severe neurological dysfunction, which manifested as higher scores on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS; p = 0.009), but they had a greater recovery in the NIHSS by the time of hospital discharge (day 7 ± 2) compared with antibody-negative patients (p = 0.043). Antibodies from stroke sera reacted more strongly with activated platelets (p = 0.031) and inhibited platelet aggregation by up to 30.1 ± 2.8% (p < 0.001), suggesting the potential to interfere with thrombus formation. In conclusion, platelet-reactive antibodies can be found in patients soon after ischaemic stroke and correlate with better short-term outcomes, suggesting a potential novel mechanism limiting thrombosis.
Hypothesis: Single Actomyosin Properties Account for Ensemble Behavior in Active Muscle Shortening and Isometric Contraction
Authors: Månsson Alf
Published: November 2020

Muscle contraction results from cyclic interactions between myosin II motors and actin with two sets of proteins organized in overlapping thick and thin filaments, respectively, in a nearly crystalline lattice in a muscle sarcomere. However, a sarcomere contains a huge number of other proteins, some with important roles in muscle contraction. In particular, these include thin filament proteins, troponin and tropomyosin; thick filament proteins, myosin binding protein C; and the elastic protein, titin, that connects the thin and thick filaments. Furthermore, the order and 3D organization of the myofilament lattice may be important per se for contractile function. It is possible to model muscle contraction based on actin and myosin alone with properties derived in studies using single molecules and biochemical solution kinetics. It is also possible to reproduce several features of muscle contraction in experiments using only isolated actin and myosin, arguing against the importance of order and accessory proteins. Therefore, in this paper, it is hypothesized that “single molecule actomyosin properties account for the contractile properties of a half sarcomere during shortening and isometric contraction at almost saturating Ca concentrations”. In this paper, existing evidence for and against this hypothesis is reviewed and new modeling results to support the arguments are presented. Finally, further experimental tests are proposed, which if they corroborate, at least approximately, the hypothesis, should significantly benefit future effective analysis of a range of experimental studies, as well as drug discovery efforts.
Plant Non-Coding RNAs: Origin, Biogenesis, Mode of Action and Their Roles in Abiotic Stress
Authors: Waititu Joram Kiriga , Zhang Chunyi , Liu Jun , Wang Huan
Published: November 2020

As sessile species, plants have to deal with the rapidly changing environment. In response to these environmental conditions, plants employ a plethora of response mechanisms that provide broad phenotypic plasticity to allow the fine-tuning of the external cues related reactions. Molecular biology has been transformed by the major breakthroughs in high-throughput transcriptome sequencing and expression analysis using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. These innovations have provided substantial progress in the identification of genomic regions as well as underlying basis influencing transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of abiotic stress response. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), short interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), have emerged as essential regulators of plants abiotic stress response. However, shared traits in the biogenesis of ncRNAs and the coordinated cross-talk among ncRNAs mechanisms contribute to the complexity of these molecules and might play an essential part in regulating stress responses. Herein, we highlight the current knowledge of plant microRNAs, siRNAs, and lncRNAs, focusing on their origin, biogenesis, modes of action, and fundamental roles in plant response to abiotic stresses.
Enzyme Properties of a Laccase Obtained from the Transcriptome of the Marine-Derived Fungus Stemphylium lucomagnoense
Authors: Ali Wissal Ben , Ayed Amal Ben , Turbé-Doan Annick , Bertrand Emmanuel , Mathieu Yann , Faulds Craig B. , Lomascolo Anne , Sciara Giuliano , Record Eric , Mechichi Tahar
Published: November 2020

Only a few studies have examined how marine-derived fungi and their enzymes adapt to salinity and plant biomass degradation. This work concerns the production and characterisation of an oxidative enzyme identified from the transcriptome of marine-derived fungus Stemphylium lucomagnoense. The laccase-encoding gene SlLac2 from S. lucomagnoense was cloned for heterologous expression in Aspergillus niger D15#26 for protein production in the extracellular medium of around 30 mg L−1. The extracellular recombinant enzyme SlLac2 was successfully produced and purified in three steps protocol: ultrafiltration, anion-exchange chromatography, and size exclusion chromatography, with a final recovery yield of 24%. SlLac2 was characterised by physicochemical properties, kinetic parameters, and ability to oxidise diverse phenolic substrates. We also studied its activity in the presence and absence of sea salt. The molecular mass of SlLac2 was about 75 kDa, consistent with that of most ascomycete fungal laccases. With syringaldazine as substrate, SlLac2 showed an optimal activity at pH 6 and retained nearly 100% of its activity when incubated at 50°C for 180 min. SlLac2 exhibited more than 50% of its activity with 5% wt/vol of sea salt.
Ligand-Specific Factors Influencing GLP-1 Receptor Post-Endocytic Trafficking and Degradation in Pancreatic Beta Cells
Authors: Fang Zijian , Chen Shiqian , Manchanda Yusman , Bitsi Stavroula , Pickford Philip , David Alessia , Shchepinova Maria M. , Corrêa Jr Ivan R. , Hodson David J. , Broichhagen Johannes , Tate Edward W. , Reimann Frank , Salem Victoria , Rutter Guy A. , Tan Tricia , Bloom Stephen R. , Tomas Alejandra , Jones Ben
Published: November 2020

The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) is an important regulator of blood glucose homeostasis. Ligand-specific differences in membrane trafficking of the GLP-1R influence its signalling properties and therapeutic potential in type 2 diabetes. Here, we have evaluated how different factors combine to control the post-endocytic trafficking of GLP-1R to recycling versus degradative pathways. Experiments were performed in primary islet cells, INS-1 832/3 clonal beta cells and HEK293 cells, using biorthogonal labelling of GLP-1R to determine its localisation and degradation after treatment with GLP-1, exendin-4 and several further GLP-1R agonist peptides. We also characterised the effect of a rare GLP1R coding variant, T149M, and the role of endosomal peptidase endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1), in GLP1R trafficking. Our data reveal how treatment with GLP-1 versus exendin-4 is associated with preferential GLP-1R targeting towards a recycling pathway. GLP-1, but not exendin-4, is a substrate for ECE-1, and the resultant propensity to intra-endosomal degradation, in conjunction with differences in binding affinity, contributes to alterations in GLP-1R trafficking behaviours and degradation. The T149M GLP-1R variant shows reduced signalling and internalisation responses, which is likely to be due to disruption of the cytoplasmic region that couples to intracellular effectors. These observations provide insights into how ligand- and genotype-specific factors can influence GLP-1R trafficking.
Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Itch in Psoriasis
Authors: Komiya Eriko , Tominaga Mitsutoshi , Kamata Yayoi , Suga Yasushi , Takamori Kenji
Published: November 2020

Itch (or pruritus) was not previously recognized as a serious symptom of psoriasis. However, approximately 60–90% of psoriatic patients with pruritus have stated that it deteriorates their quality of life. Since conventional antipruritic therapies, such as antihistamines, only exert limited effects, the establishment of a treatment option for itch in psoriasis is urgently needed. Although a definitive drug is not currently available, various itch mediators are known to be involved in pruritus in psoriasis. In this review, we describe the clinical features of pruritus in psoriasis, classify a wide range of itch mediators into categories, such as the nervous, immune, endocrine, and vascular systems, and discuss the mechanisms by which these mediators induce or aggravate itch in the pathophysiology of psoriasis.
Biomarkers in Rare Demyelinating Disease of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Boziki Marina , Sintila Styliani-Aggeliki , Ioannidis Panagiotis , Grigoriadis Nikolaos
Published: November 2020

Rare neurological diseases are a heterogeneous group corresponding approximately to 50% of all rare diseases. Neurologists are among the main specialists involved in their diagnostic investigation. At the moment, a consensus guideline on which neurologists may base clinical suspicion is not available. Moreover, neurologists need guidance with respect to screening investigations that may be performed. In this respect, biomarker research has emerged as a particularly active field due to its potential applications in clinical practice. With respect to autoimmune demyelinating diseases of the Central Nervous System (CNS), although these diseases occur in the frame of organ-specific autoimmunity, pathology of the disease itself is orchestrated among several anatomical and functional compartments. The differential diagnosis is broad and includes, but is not limited to, rare neurological diseases. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) needs to be differentially diagnosed from rare MS variants, Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM), the range of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSDs), Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG) antibody disease and other systemic inflammatory diseases. Diagnostic biomarkers may facilitate timely diagnosis and proper disease management, preventing disease exacerbation due to misdiagnosis and false treatment. In this review, we will describe advances in biomarker research with respect to rare neuroinflammatory disease of the CNS.
CC Chemokines in a Tumor: A Review of Pro-Cancer and Anti-Cancer Properties of the Ligands of Receptors CCR1, CCR2, CCR3, and CCR4
Authors: Korbecki Jan , Kojder Klaudyna , Simińska Donata , Bohatyrewicz Romuald , Gutowska Izabela , Chlubek Dariusz , Baranowska-Bosiacka Irena
Published: November 2020

CC chemokines, a subfamily of 27 chemotactic cytokines, are a component of intercellular communication, which is crucial for the functioning of the tumor microenvironment. Although many individual chemokines have been well researched, there has been no comprehensive review presenting the role of all known human CC chemokines in the hallmarks of cancer, and this paper aims at filling this gap. The first part of this review discusses the importance of CCL1, CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, CCL18, CCL19, CCL20, CCL21, CCL25, CCL27, and CCL28 in cancer. Here, we discuss the significance of CCL2 (MCP-1), CCL7, CCL8, CCL11, CCL13, CCL14, CCL15, CCL16, CCL17, CCL22, CCL23, CCL24, and CCL26. The presentation of each chemokine includes its physiological function and then the role in tumor, including proliferation, drug resistance, migration, invasion, and organ-specific metastasis of tumor cells, as well as the effects on angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. We also discuss the effects of each CC chemokine on the recruitment of cancer-associated cells to the tumor niche (eosinophils, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), tumor-associated neutrophils (TAN), regulatory T cells (Treg)). On the other hand, we also present the anti-cancer properties of CC chemokines, consisting in the recruitment of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL).
Association Analysis in Children Born from Normal and Complicated Pregnancies—Cardiovascular Disease Associated microRNAs and the Incidence of Prehypertension/Hypertension, Overweight/Obesity, Valve Problems and Heart Defects
Authors: Hromadnikova Ilona , Kotlabova Katerina , Krofta Ladislav , Sirc Jan
Published: November 2020

The goal was to assess how a history of any kind of pregnancy-related complication altered expression profile of microRNAs played a role in the pathogenesis of diabetes, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in the peripheral blood leukocytes of children at the age of 3–11 years. The prior exposure to gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm prelabor rupture of membranes or spontaneous preterm birth causes that a significant proportion of children (57.42% to 90.0% specifically) had a substantially altered microRNA expression profile, which might be the origin of a lifelong cardiovascular risk. A total of 23 out of 29 tested microRNAs were upregulated in children born from such complicated gestation. The occurrence of overweight, obesity, valve problems and heart defects even intensified upregulation of microRNAs already present in children exposed to such pregnancy complications. The occurrence of overweight/obesity (miR-92a-3p, and miR-210-3p) and valve problems or heart defects (miR-342-3p) induced microRNA upregulation in children affected with pregnancy complications. Overall, 42.86% overweight/obese children and 27.36% children with valve problems or heart defects had even higher microRNA levels than children with normal clinical findings after complicated pregnancies. In addition, the microRNA expression profile was also able to differentiate between children descending from normal gestation in relation to the occurrence of overweight and obesity. Screening on the base of the combination of 19 microRNAs identified 70.0% overweight/obese children at 90.0% specificity. In general, children after complicated pregnancies, just as children after normal pregnancies, with abnormal findings are at a higher risk of the onset of cardiovascular complications, and their dispensarization, with the aim to implement primary prevention strategies, would be beneficial.
Liver Regeneration after Hepatectomy and Partial Liver Transplantation
Authors: Yagi Shintaro , Hirata Masaaki , Miyachi Yosuke , Uemoto Shinji
Published: November 2020

The liver is a unique organ with an abundant regenerative capacity. Therefore, partial hepatectomy (PHx) or partial liver transplantation (PLTx) can be safely performed. Liver regeneration involves a complex network of numerous hepatotropic factors, cytokines, pathways, and transcriptional factors. Compared with liver regeneration after a viral- or drug-induced liver injury, that of post-PHx or -PLTx has several distinct features, such as hemodynamic changes in portal venous flow or pressure, tissue ischemia/hypoxia, and hemostasis/platelet activation. Although some of these changes also occur during liver regeneration after a viral- or drug-induced liver injury, they are more abrupt and drastic following PHx or PLTx, and can thus be the main trigger and driving force of liver regeneration. In this review, we first provide an overview of the molecular biology of liver regeneration post-PHx and -PLTx. Subsequently, we summarize some clinical conditions that negatively, or sometimes positively, interfere with liver regeneration after PHx or PLTx, such as marginal livers including aged or fatty liver and the influence of immunosuppression.
How to Predict Metastasis in Luminal Breast Cancer? Current Solutions and Future Prospects
Authors: Tabor Sylwia , Szostakowska-Rodzos Małgorzata , Fabisiewicz Anna , Grzybowska Ewa A.
Published: November 2020

Breast cancer metastasis is the main cause of breast cancer mortality. Luminal breast cancer represents the majority of breast cancer cases and, despite relatively good prognosis, its heterogeneity creates problems with a proper stratification of patients and correct identification of the group with a high risk of metastatic relapse. Current prognostic tools are based on the analysis of the primary tumor and, despite their undisputed power of prediction, they might be insufficient to foresee the relapse in an accurate and precise manner, especially if the relapse occurs after a long period of dormancy, which is very common in luminal breast cancer. New approaches tend to rely on body fluid analyses, which have the advantage of being non-invasive and versatile and may be repeated and used for monitoring the disease in the long run. In this review we describe the current, newly-developed, and only-just-discovered methods which are or may become useful in the assessment of the probability of the relapse.