bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of In-Classroom Physical Activity Breaks on Children’s Academic Performance, Cognition, Health Behaviours and Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Peiris D. L. I. H. K. , Duan Yanping , Vandelanotte Corneel , Liang Wei , Yang Min , Baker Julien Steven
Published: August 2022

In-Classroom physical activity breaks (IcPAB) are a promising way to promote children’s health behaviors, while contributing to the development of their academic and cognitive ability and health outcomes. Yet the effect of the activity breaks, which are exclusive to classroom settings, are still mixed and unclear. Hence, this review was conducted to identify the characteristics and the effects of IcPAB among primary school children. The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021234192). Following the Cochrane guidelines, PubMed, PsycINFO (ProQuest), MEDLINE (EBSCOhost), Embase/Ovid, SportDISCUS (EBSCOhost), Web of Science, Scopus and Academic Search Premier (EBSCOhost) databases were searched to collect data on randomised control trials without a time restriction. The final database search was conducted on the 8 November 2021. Random effects models were used to calculate the effect sizes. The systematic review identified ten eligible studies, nine of which were also included in the meta-analysis. Few studies used the theoretical frameworks and process evaluations. IcPAB showed mixed effectiveness on academic outcomes: i.e., IcPAB had effects on spelling performance (p < 0.05) and foreign language learning (p < 0.01) but not on mathematics and reading performance. Health behaviors such as moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels were improved (p < 0.01), but IcPAB did not have an impact on cognition outcomes and health outcomes. Given these mixed results, further research is needed underpinned by strong methodological quality, theoretical underpinnings and reliable process evaluation methods.
Financial Insecurity and Food Insecurity among U.S. Children with Secondhand and Thirdhand Smoke Exposure
Authors: Mahabee-Gittens E. Melinda , King Keith A. , Vidourek Rebecca A. , Merianos Ashley L.
Published: August 2022

Objectives: Smokers with financial and food insecurity may find it difficult to quit smoking and reduce their children’s tobacco smoke exposure (TSE). The objective was to examine the associations between child TSE and financial and food insecurity among U.S. school-aged children. Methods: We examined the 2018–2019 National Survey of Children’s Health data on 17,484 children 6–11 years old. Children were categorized into TSE groups: (1) No TSE: did not live with a smoker; (2) thirdhand smoke (THS) exposure alone: lived with a smoker who did not smoke inside the home; or (3) secondhand smoke (SHS) and THS exposure: lived with a smoker who smoked inside the home. We conducted weighted logistic, ordinal, and linear regression analyses to assess the relationships between child TSE status and financial and food insecurity, adjusting for covariates. Results: Overall, 13.1% and 1.8% of children had THS exposure alone and SHS and THS exposure, respectively. Compared to children with no TSE, children with THS exposure alone were at 2.17 increased odds (95% CI = 1.83, 2.58, p < 0.001) and children with SHS and THS exposure were at 2.24 increased odds (95% CI = 1.57, 3.19, p < 0.001) of having financial insecurity. Children with THS exposure alone were at 1.92 increased odds (95% CI = 1.58, 2.33, p < 0.001) and children with SHS and THS exposure were at 2.14 increased odds (95% CI = 1.45, 3.16, p < 0.001) of having food insecurity. Conclusions: Children with TSE are at increased risk of experiencing financial and food insecurity. When developing tobacco interventions, a holistic approach to tobacco control that addresses ways to decrease financial and food hardships may improve outcomes.
Self-Care and Sense of Coherence: A Salutogenic Model for Health and Care in Nursing Education
Authors: Colomer-Pérez Natura , Paredes-Carbonell Joan J. , Sarabia-Cobo Carmen , Useche Sergio A. , Gea-Caballero Vicente
Published: August 2022

Background: Effective advocacy on self-care and the enhancement of a sense of coherence among nurses don’t only benefit control over one’s health and personal performance, but it may have a direct impact on clinical care and on the entire healing system. In this regard, nursing curricula grounded on a salutogenic model of health (SMH) operate with strategies to engage students in self-care and contribute to improving their mental health and wellbeing. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between self-care agency and a sense of coherence as dependent variables and the age and self-reported academic performance as independent variables in nursing assistant students. Methods: For this cross-sectional study, data were collected from a full sample of 921 Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Spanish students. A self-administered questionnaire, including sociodemographic variables, the ‘appraisal of self-care agency’ (ASA), and the ‘sense of coherence’ (SOC) constructs, was administered. Results: Older participants presented significantly stronger values of both constructs. Apart from a significant and positive correlation between ASAS and SOC, ANOVA analyses indicate significant differences in terms of academic performance according to different ASAS and SOC degrees. Conclusions: The findings of this study endorse the assumption that there is a consistent relationship between ASA and SOC constructs that might, indeed, have a potential effect on students’ academic performance. In practical terms, it seems relevant to try to recognise the students’ self-care agency and the sense of coherence as forceful predictive variables of mental health and wellbeing, in addition to academic success as a strength implied in the future career achievement.
Examining the Implementation of Conditional Financial Incentives Using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) Framework to Improve HIV Outcomes among Persons Living with HIV (PLWH) in Louisiana
Authors: Chrestman Sarah , Patel Tejal , Lass Katherine , Maulsby Catherine , Alexander Hayley , Schwanz Charlie , O’Brien Kimberley , Azmeh Waref , Matthews Austin , Decuir Latoya , Bell Dionne , Cacioppo Julie , Martinez Tina , Doyle Julie D. , Brown Angie J. , Wave Shamekia , Abrol Rubina , Evans Tammeka , Brewer Russell
Published: August 2022

Economic strengthening interventions are needed to support HIV outcomes among persons living with HIV (PLWH). The Baton Rouge Positive Pathway Study (BRPPS), a mixed method implementation science study, was conducted to assess key RE-AIM components tied to the provision of conditional financial incentives among PLWH in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Seven hundred and eighty-one (781) PLWH enrolled at four HIV clinic sites were included in the final analyses. Participants completed an initial baseline survey, viral load test, and were contacted at 6 and 12 months (±1 month) post-enrollment for follow-up labs to monitor viral load levels. Participants received up to USD140 in conditional financial incentives. The primary analyses assessed whether participation in the BRPPS was associated with an increase in the proportion of participants who were: (a) engaged in care, (b) retained in care and (c) virally suppressed at baseline to 6 and 12 months post-baseline. We constructed a longitudinal regression model where participant-level outcomes at times t0 (baseline) and t1 (6- or 12-month follow-up) were modeled as a function of time. A secondary analysis was conducted using single-level regression to examine which baseline characteristics were associated with the outcomes of interest at 12-month follow-up. Cost analyses were also conducted with three of the participating clinics. Most participants identified as Black/African American (89%). Fewer than half of participants reported that they were unemployed or made less than USD5000 annually (43%). Over time, the proportion of participants engaged in care and retained in care significantly increased (70% to 93% and 32% to 64%, p < 0.00). However, the proportion of virally suppressed participants decreased over time (59% to 34%, p < 0.00). Implementation costs across the three sites ranged from USD17,198.05 to USD396,910.00 and were associated with between 0.37 and 1.34 HIV transmissions averted at each site. Study findings provide promising evidence to suggest that conditional financial incentives could help support engagement and retention in HIV care for a high need and at risk for falling out of HIV care population.
Validation of the Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory (MDDI) among Italian Women Practicing Bodybuilding and Powerlifting and in Women Practicing Physical Exercise
Authors: Cerea Silvia , Giraldo Matteo , Caudek Corrado , Bottesi Gioia , Paoli Antonio , Ghisi Marta
Published: August 2022

Studies pertaining to muscle dysmorphia (MD) have concentrated the most on males. However, a new body ideal for women is emerging: a very toned, athletic body with flat, smooth muscles. The emphasis on the level of muscularity represents a contribution to the growth of MD symptoms in women. The aim of this study was to evaluate the factorial structure and psychometric properties of the muscle dysmorphic disorder inventory (MDDI) in two samples of physically active Italian women. One-hundred and sixty-five women practicing non-competing bodybuilding/powerlifting and 353 women practicing physical exercise completed the MDDI and measures of features associated with MD. Findings of the confirmatory factor analysis showed a three-factor structure with acceptable fit and invariant across groups. Omega coefficients revealed adequate internal consistency for all the scales and for the total score of the MDDI. Furthermore, convergent and divergent validity as well as retest reliability emerged to be good. MDDI represents a reliable measure of MD symptoms in physically active Italian women.
Rainstorm Disaster Risk Assessment and Influence Factors Analysis in the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Deng Menghua , Li Zhiqi , Tao Feifei
Published: August 2022

Rainstorm disasters have had a serious impact on the sustainable development of society and the economy. However, due to the complexity of rainstorm disasters, it is difficult to measure the importance of each indicator. In this paper, the rainstorm disaster risk assessment framework was systematically proposed based on the disaster system theory and a system of corresponding indicators was established. Furthermore, the genetic algorithm optimized projection pursuit and XGBoost were coupled to assess the rainstorm disaster risk and to measure the relative importance of each indicator. Finally, the Yangtze River Delta was taken as the case study area. The results show that: the rainstorm disaster risk in the eastern and southeast is higher than those in the central and northwest of the Yangtze River Delta; the total precipitation from June to September and the top ten indicators contribute 9.34% and 74.20% to the rainstorm disaster risk assessment results, respectively. The results can provide references for decision makers and are helpful for the formulation of rainstorm adaptation strategies.
Relationship of Societal Adaptation with Vaccine Worries among Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Mediating Effects of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Hsieh Kuan-Ying , Li Dian-Jeng , Chou Frank Huang-Chih , Hsu Su-Ting , Wu Hui-Ching , Chou Li-Shiu , Wu Pei-Jhen , Lin Guei-Ging , Chen Wei-Jen , Liu Chin-Lien , Huang Joh-Jong
Published: August 2022

Vaccine hesitancy has become a major public health problem among healthcare workers (HCWs) in this coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between societal adaptation and vaccine worries and the mediating effects of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) indicators in HCWs. A total of 435 HCWs (327 women and 108 men) were recruited. Their levels of societal adaptation were evaluated using the Societal Influences Survey Questionnaire (SISQ). Their severity and frequency of PTSD symptoms were examined using the Disaster-Related Psychological Screening Test (DRPST). The severity of vaccine worries was assessed using the Vaccination Attitudes Examination (VAX) Scale. The relationships among societal adaptation, PTSD, and vaccine worries were examined using structural equation modeling. The severity of societal adaptation was positively associated with both the severity of PTSD and the severity of vaccine worries. In addition, the severity of PTSD indicators was positively associated with the severity of vaccine worries. These results demonstrated that the severity of societal adaptation was related to the severity of vaccine worries, either directly or indirectly. The indirect relationship was mediated by the severity of PTSD. Societal adaptation and PTSD should be taken into consideration by the community of professionals working on vaccine hesitancy. Early detection and intervention of PTSD should be the objectives for programs aiming to lower vaccine hesitancy among HCWs.
Underdog Environmental Expectations and Environmental Organizational Citizenship Behavior in the Hotel Industry: Mediation of Desire to Prove Others Wrong and Individual Green Values as a Moderator
Authors: Elshaer Ibrahim A. , Azazz Alaa M. S. , Fayyad Sameh
Published: August 2022

Discretionary environmental behaviors are usually encouraged beyond a formal reward system, but environmental skeptics, from managers or co-workers, place underdog expectations on the importance of organizational citizenship behaviors for workplace environments. Building on the leadership substitution theory, the social exchange theory (SET), and the ability-motivation-opportunity (AMO) theory, in the current study, we explore the relationships between underdog environmental expectations and organizational citizenship behaviors for the environment (OCBE), with the mediating effects of desire to prove others wrong and the moderating effect of green values. A total of 246 hotel employees participated, and the obtained data were analyzed by structural equation modeling with partial least squares (PLS). The results assert that underdog environmental expectations are able to reduce OCBE. The results also demonstrate that green values and the desire to prove others wrong lessen the negative effect of underdog environmental expectations on OCBE. In addition, we discuss the theoretical and practical implications regarding the application of these findings to the tourism and hospitality industries.
Changes in Physical Fitness during the COVID-19 Pandemic in German Children
Authors: Eberhardt Tanja , Bös Klaus , Niessner Claudia
Published: August 2022

With the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in December 2019, each country has developed strategies to try to control the virus. The restrictions and subsequent consequences also limited the possibilities and structures for being physically active. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine changes in physical fitness in a cohort that was investigated over an extended period. Physical fitness testing was conducted with the IPPTP-R in a primary school from a small rural community annually since 2012. Mean values of test items were calculated for each cohort. We conducted an ANCOVA to examine the differences between cohorts PreCOVID and 2020 as the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, and between PreCOVID and 2021 as the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, no evidence for a negative effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical fitness in children between the ages of 7 and 9 years was found. In strength tests, performances increased when comparing the PreCOVID cohort and COVID-19 cohorts (Push-Ups: p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.032; p = 0.017, ηp2 = 0.006). No evidence for a change was found for endurance (6-min Run: p = 0.341, ηp2 = 0.001; p = 0.267, ηp2 = 0.001. The rural community maintained physical fitness despite restrictions and limitations through the environmental circumstances. Considering this, it is a positive example of how adequate long-term efforts promoting physical fitness make an impact and an active friendly environment helps to overcome COVID-19 pandemics limiting the structures for being physically active.
Editorial on the Research Topic the 2nd Edition of Mountain Sports Activities: Injuries and Prevention
Authors: Burtscher Martin , Hefti Urs , Ruedl Gerhard , Hefti Jacqueline Pichler
Published: August 2022

Mountain sports are continuously gaining popularity, currently fueled by the post-pandemic period expanding travel opportunities and the desire to escape the increasingly hot environmental conditions of urban areas—ambient temperature decreases by about 6 [...]
Metabolic Effects of the Waist-To-Hip Ratio Associated Locus GRB14/COBLL1 Are Related to GRB14 Expression in Adipose Tissue
Authors: Sun Chang , Förster Franz , Gutsmann Beate , Moulla Yusef , Stroh Christine , Dietrich Arne , Schön Michael R. , Gärtner Daniel , Lohmann Tobias , Dressler Miriam , Stumvoll Michael , Blüher Matthias , Kovacs Peter , Breitfeld Jana , Guiu-Jurado Esther
Published: August 2022

GRB14/COBLL1 locus has been shown to be associated with body fat distribution (FD), but neither the causal gene nor its role in metabolic diseases has been elucidated. We hypothesize that GRB14/COBLL1 may act as the causal genes for FD-related SNPs (rs10195252 and rs6738627), and that they may be regulated by SNP to effect obesity-related metabolic traits. We genotyped rs10195252 and rs6738627 in 2860 subjects with metabolic phenotypes. In a subgroup of 560 subjects, we analyzed GRB14/COBLL1 gene expression in paired visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT) samples. Mediation analyses were used to determine the causal relationship between SNPs, AT GRB14/COBLL1 mRNA expression, and obesity-related traits. In vitro gene knockdown of Grb14/Cobll1 was used to test their role in adipogenesis. Both gene expressions in AT are correlated with waist circumference. Visceral GRB14 mRNA expression is associated with FPG and HbA1c. Both SNPs are associated with triglycerides, FPG, and leptin levels. Rs10195252 is associated with HbA1c and seems to be mediated by visceral AT GRB14 mRNA expression. Our data support the role of the GRB14/COBLL1 gene expression in body FD and its locus in metabolic sequelae: in particular, lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis, which is likely mediated by AT GRB14 transcript levels.
The Treatment Efficiency and Microbiota Analysis of Sapindus mukorossi Seed Oil on the Ligature-Induced Periodontitis Rat Model
Authors: Lin Shih-Kai , Wu Yi-Fan , Chang Wei-Jen , Feng Sheng-Wei , Huang Haw-Ming
Published: August 2022

Periodontitis is a common oral disease mainly caused by bacterial infection and inflammation of the gingiva. In the prevention or treatment of periodontitis, anti-bacterial agents are used to inhibit pathogen growth, despite increasing levels of bacterial resistance. Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn (SM) seed oil has proven anti-bacterial and anti-inflammation properties. However, the possibility of using this plant to prevent or treat periodontitis has not been reported previously. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of SM oil on experimental periodontitis in rats by using micro-CT and microbiota analysis. The distance between cementoenamel junction (CEJ) and alveolar bone crest (ABC) on the sagittal micro-CT slide showed that total bone loss (TBL) was significantly lower in CEJ-ABC distances between SM oil and SM oil-free groups on Day 14. Histology data also showed less alveolar bone resorption, a result consistent result with micro-CT imaging. The microbiota analyzed at phylum and class levels were compared between the SM oil and SM oil-free groups on Day 7 and Day 14. At the phylum level, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria were the dominant bacterium. Firmicutes in box plot analysis was significantly less in the SM oil group than in the SM oil-free group on Day 7. At the class level, Bacteroidia, Gammaproteobacteria, Bacilli, Clostridia, and Erysipelotrichia were the dominant bacteria. The bacteria composition proportion of Bacilli, Clostridiay, and Erysipelotrichia could be seen in the SM oil group significantly less than in t SM oil-free group on Day 7. Overall, the present results show that topical application of SM oil can reduce bone resorption and change bacteria composition in the ligature-induced periodontitis model. According to these results, it is reasonable to suggest SM oil as a potential material for preventing oral disease.
Reduced VDAC1, Maintained Mitochondrial Dynamics and Enhanced Mitochondrial Biogenesis in a Transgenic Tau Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Vijayan Murali , Reddy P. Hemachandra
Published: August 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common forms of neurodegeneration, defined by reduced cognitive function, which is caused by the gradual death of neurons in the brain. Recent studies have shown an age-dependent rise in the levels of voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) in AD. In addition, we discovered an aberrant interaction between VDAC1 and P-TAU in the brains of AD patients, which led to abnormalities in the structural and functional integrity of the mitochondria. The purpose of our study is to understand the protective effects of reduced VDAC1 against impaired mitochondrial dynamics and defective mitochondrial biogenesis in transgenic TAU mice. Recently, we crossed heterozygote VDAC1 knockout (VDAC1+/−) mice with transgenic TAU mice to obtain double-mutant VDAC1+/−/TAU mice. Our goal was to evaluate whether a partial decrease in VDAC1 lessens the amount of mitochondrial toxicity in transgenic Tau (P301L) mice. We found that mitochondrial fission proteins were significantly reduced, and mitochondrial fusion and biogenesis proteins were increased in double-mutant mice compared to TAU mice. On the basis of these discoveries, the current work may have significance for the development of reduced-VDAC1-based treatments for individuals suffering from AD as well as other tauopathies.
Control of Maternal-to-Zygotic Transition in Human Embryos and Other Animal Species (Especially Mouse): Similarities and Differences
Authors: Tesarik Jan
Published: August 2022

Maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT) of the control of early post-fertilization development is a key-event conditioning the fate of the future embryo, fetus and newborn. Because of the relative paucity of data concerning human embryos, due to ethical concerns and the poor availability of human embryos donated for research, most data have to be derived from animal models, among which those obtained using mouse embryos are most prevalent. However, data obtained by studies performed in non-mammalian specie can also provide useful information. For this reason, this review focuses on similarities and differences of MZT control mechanisms in humans and other species, with particular attention to the mouse. A number of molecular pathways controlling MZT in mice and humans are compared, pointing out those that could be at the origin of further focused experimental studies and the development of new diagnostic tools based on the translational medicine principles. Data concerning possible candidate molecules to be included in these studies are identified.
Epidemiology and Molecular Biology of HPV Variants in Cervical Cancer: The State of the Art in Mexico
Authors: Muñoz-Bello J. Omar , Carrillo-García Adela , Lizano Marcela
Published: August 2022

Cervical cancer (CC) continues to be a major public health problem in Mexico, ranking second among cancers in women. A persistent infection with human papillomaviruses (HPV) is the main risk factor for CC development. In addition, a significant fraction of other cancers including those of the anus, oropharynx, and penis are also related to HPV infection. In CC, HPV-16 is the most prevalent high-risk HPV type, followed by HPV-18, both being responsible for 70% of cases. HPV intratype variant lineages differ in nucleotide sequences by 1–10%, while sublineages differ by 0.5–1%. Several studies have postulated that the nucleotide changes that occur between HPV intratype variants are reflected in functional differences and in pathogenicity. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that HPV-16 and -18 intratype variants differentially affect molecular processes in infected cells, changing their biological behavior that finally impacts in the clinical outcome of patients. Mexico has participated in providing knowledge on the geographical distribution of intratype variants of the most prevalent HPVs in premalignant lesions of the cervix and cervical cancer, as well as in other HPV-related tumors. In addition, functional studies have been carried out to assess the cellular effects of intratype variations in HPV proteins. This review addresses the state of the art on the epidemiology of HPV-16 and HPV-18 intratype variants in the Mexican population, as well as their association with persistence, precancer and cervical cancer, and functional aspects related to their biological behavior.
Biofabrication of Sodium Alginate Hydrogel Scaffolds for Heart Valve Tissue Engineering
Authors: Rioux Yannick , Fradette Julie , Maciel Yvan , Bégin-Drolet André , Ruel Jean
Published: August 2022

Every year, thousands of aortic valve replacements must take place due to valve diseases. Tissue-engineered heart valves represent promising valve substitutes with remodeling, regeneration, and growth capabilities. However, the accurate reproduction of the complex three-dimensional (3D) anatomy of the aortic valve remains a challenge for current biofabrication methods. We present a novel technique for rapid fabrication of native-like tricuspid aortic valve scaffolds made of an alginate-based hydrogel. Using this technique, a sodium alginate hydrogel formulation is injected into a mold produced using a custom-made sugar glass 3D printer. The mold is then dissolved using a custom-made dissolving module, revealing the aortic valve scaffold. To assess the reproducibility of the technique, three scaffolds were thoroughly compared. CT (computed tomography) scans showed that the scaffolds respect the complex native geometry with minimal variations. The scaffolds were then tested in a cardiac bioreactor specially designed to reproduce physiological flow and pressure (aortic and ventricular) conditions. The flow and pressure profiles were similar to the physiological ones for the three valve scaffolds, with small variabilities. These early results establish the functional repeatability of this new biofabrication method and suggest its application for rapid fabrication of ready-to-use cell-seeded sodium alginate scaffolds for heart valve tissue engineering.
Nanopore Sequencing for De Novo Bacterial Genome Assembly and Search for Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism
Authors: Khrenova Maria G. , Panova Tatiana V. , Rodin Vladimir A. , Kryakvin Maxim A. , Lukyanov Dmitrii A. , Osterman Ilya A. , Zvereva Maria I.
Published: August 2022

Nanopore sequencing (ONT) is a new and rapidly developing method for determining nucleotide sequences in DNA and RNA. It serves the ability to obtain long reads of thousands of nucleotides without assembly and amplification during sequencing compared to next-generation sequencing. Nanopore sequencing can help for determination of genetic changes leading to antibiotics resistance. This study presents the application of ONT technology in the assembly of an E. coli genome characterized by a deletion of the tolC gene and known single-nucleotide variations leading to antibiotic resistance, in the absence of a reference genome. We performed benchmark studies to determine minimum coverage depth to obtain a complete genome, depending on the quality of the ONT data. A comparison of existing programs was carried out. It was shown that the Flye program demonstrates plausible assembly results relative to others (Shasta, Canu, and Necat). The required coverage depth for successful assembly strongly depends on the size of reads. When using high-quality samples with an average read length of 8 Kbp or more, the coverage depth of 30× is sufficient to assemble the complete genome de novo and reliably determine single-nucleotide variations in it. For samples with shorter reads with mean lengths of 2 Kbp, a higher coverage depth of 50× is required. Avoiding of mechanical mixing is obligatory for samples preparation. Nanopore sequencing can be used alone to determine antibiotics-resistant genetic features of bacterial strains.
Application of Perinatal Derivatives on Oncological Preclinical Models: A Review of Animal Studies
Authors: Teixo Ricardo , Pires Ana Salomé , Pereira Eurico , Serambeque Beatriz , Marques Inês Alexandra , Laranjo Mafalda , Mojsilović Slavko , Gramignoli Roberto , Ponsaerts Peter , Schoeberlein Andreina , Botelho Maria Filomena
Published: August 2022

The increasing cancer incidence has certified oncological management as one of the most critical challenges for the coming decades. New anticancer strategies are still needed, despite the significant advances brought to the forefront in the last decades. The most recent, promising therapeutic approaches have benefitted from the application of human perinatal derivatives (PnD), biological mediators with proven benefits in several fields beyond oncology. To elucidate preclinical results and clinic outcomes achieved in the oncological field, we present a narrative review of the studies resorting to animal models to assess specific outcomes of PnD products. Recent preclinical evidence points to promising anticancer effects offered by PnD mediators isolated from the placenta, amniotic membrane, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cord. Described effects include tumorigenesis prevention, uncontrolled growth or regrowth inhibition, tumor homing ability, and adequate cell-based delivery capacity. Furthermore, PnD treatments have been described as supportive of chemotherapy and radiological therapies, particularly when resistance has been reported. However, opposite effects of PnD products have also been observed, offering support and trophic effect to malignant cells. Such paradoxical and dichotomous roles need to be intensively investigated. Current hypotheses identify as explanatory some critical factors, such as the type of the PnD biological products used or the manufacturing procedure to prepare the tissue/cellular treatment, the experimental design (including human-relevant animal models), and intrinsic pathophysiological characteristics. The effective and safe translation of PnD treatments to clinical practice relies on the collaborative efforts of all researchers working with human-relevant oncological preclinical models. However, it requires proper guidelines and consensus compiled by experts and health workers who accurately describe the methodology of tissue collection, PnD isolation, manufacturing, preservation, and delivery to the final user.
Hyperglycemia in Pregnancy-Associated Oxidative Stress Augments Altered Placental Glucose Transporter 1 Trafficking via AMPKα/p38MAPK Signaling Cascade
Authors: Wang Shuxian , Ning Jie , Huai Jing , Yang Huixia
Published: August 2022

GLUT1, being a ubiquitous transporter isoform, is considered primarily responsible for glucose uptake during glycolysis. However, there is still uncertainty about the regulatory mechanisms of GLUT1 in hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP, PGDM, and GDM) accompanied by abnormal oxidative stress responses. In the present study, it was observed that the glycolysis was enhanced in GDM and PGDM pregnancies. In line with this, the antioxidant system was disturbed and GLUT1 expression was increased due to diabetes impairment in both placental tissues and in vitro BeWo cells. GLUT1 responded to high glucose stimulation through p38MAPK in an AMPKα-dependent manner. Both the medical-mediated and genetic depletion of p38MAPK in BeWo cells could suppress GLUT1 expression and OS-induced proapoptotic effects. Furthermore, blocking AMPKα with an inhibitor or siRNA strategy promoted p38MAPK, GLUT1, and proapoptotic molecules expression and vice versa. In general, a new GLUT1 regulation pathway was identified, which could exert effects on placental transport function through the AMPKα-p38MAPK pathway. AMPKα may be a therapeutic target in HIP for alleviating diabetes insults.
Involvement of a Cluster of Basic Amino Acids in Phosphorylation-Dependent Functional Repression of the Ceramide Transport Protein CERT
Authors: Goto Asako , Egawa Daichi , Tomishige Nario , Yamaji Toshiyuki , Shimasaki Kentaro , Kumagai Keigo , Hanada Kentaro
Published: August 2022

Ceramide transport protein (CERT) mediates ceramide transfer from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi for sphingomyelin (SM) biosynthesis. CERT is inactivated by multiple phosphorylation at the serine-repeat motif (SRM), and mutations that impair the SRM phosphorylation are associated with a group of inherited intellectual disorders in humans. It has been suggested that the N-terminal phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate [PtdIns(4)P] binding domain and the C-terminal ceramide-transfer domain of CERT physically interfere with each other in the SRM phosphorylated state, thereby repressing the function of CERT; however, it remains unclear which regions in CERT are involved in the SRM phosphorylation-dependent repression of CERT. Here, we identified a previously uncharacterized cluster of lysine/arginine residues that were predicted to be located on the outer surface of a probable coiled-coil fold in CERT. Substitutions of the basic amino acids in the cluster with alanine released the SRM-dependent repression of CERT activities, i.e., the synthesis of SM, PtdIns(4)P-binding, vesicle-associated membrane protein-associated protein (VAP) binding, ceramide-transfer activity, and localization to the Golgi, although the effect on SM synthesis activity was only partially compromised by the alanine substitutions, which moderately destabilized the trimeric status of CERT. These results suggest that the basic amino acid cluster in the coiled-coil region is involved in the regulation of CERT function.
Low-Dose Radiation Affects Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Human Aortic Endothelial Cells by Altering Gene Expression under Normal and Diabetic Conditions
Authors: Lee Soo-Ho , Jeong Ye , Park Jeongwoo , Kim Hyun-Yong , Son Yeonghoon , Kim Kwang , Lee Hae-June
Published: August 2022

High doses of ionizing radiation can cause cardiovascular diseases (CVDs); however, the effects of <100 mGy radiation on CVD remain underreported. Endothelial cells (ECs) play major roles in cardiovascular health and disease, and their function is reduced by stimuli such as chronic disease, metabolic disorders, and smoking. However, whether exposure to low-dose radiation results in the disruption of similar molecular mechanisms in ECs under diabetic and non-diabetic states remains largely unknown; we aimed to address this gap in knowledge through the molecular and functional characterization of primary human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) derived from patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D-HAECs) and normal HAECs in response to low-dose radiation. To address these limitations, we performed RNA sequencing on HAECs and T2D-HAECs following exposure to 100 mGy of ionizing radiation and examined the transcriptome changes associated with the low-dose radiation. Compared with that in the non-irradiation group, low-dose irradiation induced 243 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (133 down-regulated and 110 up-regulated) in HAECs and 378 DEGs (195 down-regulated and 183 up-regulated) in T2D-HAECs. We also discovered a significant association between the DEGs and the interferon (IFN)-I signaling pathway, which is associated with CVD by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, protein–protein network analysis, and module analysis. Our findings demonstrate the potential impact of low-dose radiation on EC functions that are related to the risk of CVD.
VIP/VPAC Axis Expression in Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Disorders: Associated miRNA Signatures
Authors: Lamana Amalia , Castro-Vázquez David , de la Fuente Hortensia , Triguero-Martínez Ana , Martínez-Hernández Rebeca , Revenga Marcelino , Villanueva-Romero Raúl , Llamas-Velasco Mar , Chicharro Pablo , Juarranz Yasmina , Marazuela Mónica , Sales-Sanz Marco , García-Vicuña Rosario , Tomero Eva , González-Álvaro Isidoro , Martínez Carmen , Gomariz Rosa P.
Published: August 2022

Few studies have considered immune-mediated inflammatory disorders (IMID) together, which is necessary to adequately understand them given they share common mechanisms. Our goal was to investigate the expression of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and its receptors VPAC1 and VPAC2 in selected IMID, analyze the effect of biological therapies on them, and identify miRNA signatures associated with their expression. Serum VIP levels and mRNA of VPAC and miRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were analyzed from 52 patients with psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Graves’ disease, or spondyloarthritis and from 38 healthy subjects. IMID patients showed higher levels of VIP and increased expression of VPAC2 compared to controls (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0192, respectively). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the levels of VIP or VPAC2 expression were adequate discriminators capable of identifying IMID. Treatment of IMID patients with anti-TNFα and anti-IL12/23 significantly affected serum VIP levels. We identified miRNA signatures associated with levels of serum VIP and VPAC2 expression, which correlated with IMID diagnosis of the patients. The results indicate that the expression of VIP/VPAC2 is able of identify IMIDs and open up a line of research based on the association between the VIP/VPAC axis and miRNA signatures in immune-mediated diseases.
Nanofiber Carriers of Therapeutic Load: Current Trends
Authors: Jarak Ivana , Silva Inês , Domingues Cátia , Santos Ana Isabel , Veiga Francisco , Figueiras Ana
Published: August 2022

The fast advancement in nanotechnology has prompted the improvement of numerous methods for the creation of various nanoscale composites of which nanofibers have gotten extensive consideration. Nanofibers are polymeric/composite fibers which have a nanoscale diameter. They vary in porous structure and have an extensive area. Material choice is of crucial importance for the assembly of nanofibers and their function as efficient drug and biomedicine carriers. A broad scope of active pharmaceutical ingredients can be incorporated within the nanofibers or bound to their surface. The ability to deliver small molecular drugs such as antibiotics or anticancer medications, proteins, peptides, cells, DNA and RNAs has led to the biomedical application in disease therapy and tissue engineering. Although nanofibers have shown incredible potential for drug and biomedicine applications, there are still difficulties which should be resolved before they can be utilized in clinical practice. This review intends to give an outline of the recent advances in nanofibers, contemplating the preparation methods, the therapeutic loading and release and the various therapeutic applications.
Human Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cell–Derived Extracellular Vesicles Enhance Neuroregeneration in a Rat Model of Sciatic Nerve Crush Injury
Authors: Demyanenko Svetlana V. , Pitinova Maria A. , Kalyuzhnaya Yulia N. , Khaitin Andrey M. , Batalshchikova Svetlana A. , Dobaeva Natalya M. , Shevtsova Yulia A. , Goryunov Kirill V. , Plotnikov Egor Y. , Pashkevich Svetlana G. , Sukhikh Gennady T. , Silachev Denis N.
Published: August 2022

Peripheral nerve injury remains a serious problem for medicine, with no effective method of treatment at the moment. The most prominent example of this problem is neonatal brachial plexus palsy, which results from the stretching of the brachial plexus nerves in the birth or perinatal period. Multipotent mesenchymal cells (MSCs) and the extracellular vesicles (EVs) they produce are known to have a marked neuroprotective effect in central nervous system injuries. We suggested that the use of MSCs-derived EVs may be an effective approach to the regeneration of peripheral nerves after injury. Sciatic nerve injury was modeled in rats via crushing, and then a gel containing MSCs–EVs was applied to the injured area. After 15 and 30 days, a histological, physiological, and functional assessment of nerve, dorsal root ganglia (DRG), and innervated muscles’ recovery was performed. Transplantation of EVs to the area of sciatic nerve injury significantly reduced muscle atrophy as compared to the control group. Functional recovery of the innervated muscles, as measured by the extensor postural thrust test, was revealed 30 days after the surgery. We associate the obtained results with EVs-induced neuroprotective mechanisms, which were expressed in a decrease in apoptotic neuronal death and an increase in regeneration-associated proteins NF-200 and GAP-43, as well as in DRG and damaged nerve. We suggest that the therapeutic scheme we used is efficient for the treatment of acute peripheral nervous system injuries and can be transferred to the clinics. However, additional studies are required for a more detailed analysis of neuroprotection mechanisms.
Insights into the Genomic Regions and Candidate Genes of Senescence-Related Traits in Upland Cotton via GWAS
Authors: Liu Qibao , Feng Zhen , Huang Chenjue , Wen Jia , Li Libei , Yu Shuxun
Published: August 2022

Senescence is the last stage of plant development and is controlled by both internal and external factors. Premature senescence significantly affects the yield and quality of cotton. However, the genetic architecture underlying cotton senescence remains unclear. In this study, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were performed based on 3,015,002 high-quality SNP markers from the resequencing data of 355 upland cotton accessions to detect genomic regions for cotton senescence. A total of 977 candidate genes within 55 senescence-related genomic regions (SGRs), SGR1–SGR55, were predicted. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of candidate genes revealed that a set of biological processes was enriched, such as salt stress, ethylene processes, and leaf senescence. Furthermore, in the leaf senescence GO term, one candidate gene was focused on: Gohir.A12G270900 (GhMKK9), located in SGR36, which encodes a protein of the MAP kinase kinase family. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that GhMKK9 was up-regulated in old cotton leaves. Overexpression of GhMKK9 in Arabidopsis accelerated natural leaf senescence. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of GhMKK9 in cotton increased drought tolerance. These results suggest that GhMKK9 is a positive regulator and might be involved in drought-induced senescence in cotton. The results provide new insights into the genetic basis of cotton senescence and will be useful for improving cotton breeding in the future.
Root Foraging Strategy Improves the Adaptability of Tea Plants (Camellia sinensis L.) to Soil Potassium Heterogeneity
Authors: Ruan Li , Cheng Hao , Ludewig Uwe , Li Jianwu , Chang Scott X.
Published: August 2022

Root foraging enables plants to obtain more soil nutrients in a constantly changing nutrient environment. Little is known about the adaptation mechanism of adventitious roots of plants dominated by asexual reproduction (such as tea plants) to soil potassium heterogeneity. We investigated root foraging strategies for K by two tea plants (low-K tolerant genotype “1511” and low-K intolerant genotype “1601”) using a multi-layer split-root system. Root exudates, root architecture and transcriptional responses to K heterogeneity were analyzed by HPLC, WinRHIZO and RNA-seq. With the higher leaf K concentrations and K biological utilization indexes, “1511” acclimated to K heterogeneity better than “1601”. For “1511”, maximum total root length and fine root length proportion appeared on the K-enriched side; the solubilization of soil K reached the maximum on the low-K side, which was consistent with the amount of organic acids released through root exudation. The cellulose decomposition genes that were abundant on the K-enriched side may have promoted root proliferation for “1511”. This did not happen in “1601”. The low-K tolerant tea genotype “1511” was better at acclimating to K heterogeneity, which was due to a smart root foraging strategy: more roots (especially fine roots) were developed in the K-enriched side; more organic acids were secreted in the low-K side to activate soil K and the root proliferation in the K-enriched side might be due to cellulose decomposition. The present research provides a practical basis for a better understanding of the adaptation strategies of clonal woody plants to soil nutrient availability.
A Liquid Biopsy in Bladder Cancer—The Current Landscape in Urinary Biomarkers
Authors: Matuszczak Milena , Kiljańczyk Adam , Salagierski Maciej
Published: August 2022

The non-muscle invasive bladder cancer tends to recur and progress. Therefore, it requires frequent follow-ups, generating costs and making it one of the most expensive neoplasms. Considering the expensive and invasive character of the current gold-standard diagnostic procedure, white-light cystoscopy, efforts to find an alternative method are ongoing. Although the last decade has seen significant advancements in urinary biomarker tests (UBTs) for bladder cancer, international guidelines have not recommended them. Currently, the paramount urgency is to find and validate the test with the best specificity and sensitivity, which would allow for the optimizing of diagnosis, prognosis, and a treatment plan. This review aims to summarise the up-to-date state of knowledge relating to UBTs and new developments in the detection, prognosis, and surveillance of bladder cancer and their potential applications in clinical practice.
A Bright Horizon: Immunotherapy for Pediatric T-Cell Malignancies
Authors: Newman Haley , Teachey David T.
Published: August 2022

Immunotherapy has transformed the treatment of hematologic malignancies in the past two decades. The treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), in particular, has been highly impacted by multiple novel immunotherapies. For pediatric patients with T-cell malignancies, translating immunotherapies has proved more challenging due to the complexities of fratricide, risk of product contamination with malignant cells, and concerns over T-cell aplasia. Despite these hurdles, many creative and promising strategies are on the horizon. We review challenges in the development of immunotherapy for T-cell malignancies, strategies to overcome these challenges, as well as therapies currently being investigated and starting to reach the clinic. Immunotherapy will hopefully successfully treat patients with relapsed and refractory T-cell malignancies and may someday be incorporated in up-front protocols in order to prevent relapses.
Physiological or Pathological Molecular Alterations in Brain Aging
Authors: Morabito Rossana , Cordaro Marika
Published: August 2022

Aging is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to a variety of loosely understood mechanisms [...]