bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRISPR-Based Genome Editing Tools: Insights into Technological Breakthroughs and Future Challenges
Authors: Mushtaq Muntazir , Ahmad Dar Aejaz , Skalicky Milan , Tyagi Anshika , Bhagat Nancy , Basu Umer , Bhat Basharat Ahmad , Zaid Abbu , Ali Sajad , Dar Tanvir-Ul-Hassan , Rai Gyanendra Kumar , Wani Shabir Hussain , Habib-Ur-Rahman Muhammad , Hejnak Vaclav , Vachova Pavla , Brestic Marian , Çığ Arzu , Çığ Fatih , Erman Murat , EL Sabagh Ayman
Published: May 2021

Genome-editing (GE) is having a tremendous influence around the globe in the life science community. Among its versatile uses, the desired modifications of genes, and more importantly the transgene (DNA)-free approach to develop genetically modified organism (GMO), are of special interest. The recent and rapid developments in genome-editing technology have given rise to hopes to achieve global food security in a sustainable manner. We here discuss recent developments in CRISPR-based genome-editing tools for crop improvement concerning adaptation, opportunities, and challenges. Some of the notable advances highlighted here include the development of transgene (DNA)-free genome plants, the availability of compatible nucleases, and the development of safe and effective CRISPR delivery vehicles for plant genome editing, multi-gene targeting and complex genome editing, base editing and prime editing to achieve more complex genetic engineering. Additionally, new avenues that facilitate fine-tuning plant gene regulation have also been addressed. In spite of the tremendous potential of CRISPR and other gene editing tools, major challenges remain. Some of the challenges are related to the practical advances required for the efficient delivery of CRISPR reagents and for precision genome editing, while others come from government policies and public acceptance. This review will therefore be helpful to gain insights into technological advances, its applications, and future challenges for crop improvement.
Transcriptome Co-Expression Network Analysis Identifies Key Genes and Regulators of Sweet Cherry Anthocyanin Biosynthesis
Authors: Yang Haiying , Tian Changping , Li Xiwen , Gong Hansheng , Zhang Aidi
Published: May 2021

Anthocyanin is the key factor that results in the attractive color of sweet cherry fruits. However, information regarding sweet cherry coloration and the potential mechanisms underlying anthocyanin biosynthesis is limited. In this study, we found that the anthocyanin accumulation varied in sweet cherry flesh and peel, while the anthocyanin content increased sharply in the dark red (DR) stage. Correlations between anthocyanin concentrations and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), constructed with Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), indicated that two structural genes (Pac4CL2, PacANS) and 11 transcription factors (PacbHLH13/74, PacDIV, PacERF109/115, PacGATA8, PacGT2, PacGTE10, PacMYB308, PacPosF21, and PacWRKY7) had similar expression patterns with the changes in anthocyanin content. Additionally, real-time PCR verified all of these gene expression patterns and revealed that PacANS exhibited the highest transcription level. In order to search for potential regulators for anthocyanin biosynthesis, a dual-luciferase assay was performed to investigate the regulatory activities of 11 transcription factors on the PacANS promoter. The results revealed that two novelty bHLHs, PacbHLH13 and PacbHLH74, can trans-activate the PacANS promoter and they might be the candidate genes for regulating anthocyanin synthesis in sweet cherry fruits. The present findings provide a novel viewpoint with regard to anthocyanin biosynthesis mechanisms and the regulatory transcriptional network of fruit coloration in sweet cherries.
SARS-CoV-2 Detection Rates from Surface Samples Do Not Implicate Public Surfaces as Relevant Sources for Transmission
Authors: Kampf Günter , Pfaender Stephanie , Goldman Emanuel , Steinmann Eike
Published: May 2021

Contaminated surfaces have been discussed as a possible source of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Under experimental conditions, SARS-CoV-2 can remain infectious on surfaces for several days. However, the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 detection on surfaces in healthcare settings and the public is currently not known. A systematic literature review was performed. On surfaces around COVID-19 cases in healthcare settings (42 studies), the SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection rates mostly were between 0% and 27% (Ct values mostly > 30). Detection of infectious SARS-CoV-2 was only successful in one of seven studies in 9.2% of 76 samples. Most of the positive samples were obtained next to a patient with frequent sputum spitting during sampling. Eight studies were found with data from public surfaces and RNA detection rates between 0% and 22.1% (Ct values mostly > 30). Detection of infectious virus was not attempted. Similar results were found in samples from surfaces around confirmed COVID-19 cases in non-healthcare settings (7 studies) and from personal protective equipment (10 studies). Therefore, it seems plausible to assume that inanimate surfaces are not a relevant source for transmission of SARS-CoV-2. In public settings, the associated risks of regular surface disinfection probably outweigh the expectable health benefits.
Analysis of Effectiveness of a Supplement Combining Harpagophytum procumbens, Zingiber officinale and Bixa orellana in Healthy Recreational Runners with Self-Reported Knee Pain: A Pilot, Randomized, Triple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: González-Gross Marcela , Quesada-González Carlos , Rueda Javier , Sillero-Quintana Manuel , Issaly Nicolas , Díaz Angel Enrique , Gesteiro Eva , Escobar-Toledo David , Torres-Peralta Rafael , Roller Marc , Guadalupe-Grau Amelia
Published: May 2021

Recreational running (RR) is becoming a popular way to increase physical activity for improving health, together with a higher incidence of knee injuries. The aim was to analyze the effect of a four-week supplementation with a mixture of Harpagophytum procumbens, Zingiber officinale and Bixa orellana on males, middle-aged, RR with an undiagnosed knee discomfort. A randomized triple-blind placebo-control trial was conducted among male RR aged 40–60 years suffering from self-declared knee discomfort after training. Participants were assigned to supplementation (2 g/day in 6 doses; n  =  13; intervention group (IG)) or matched placebo (n  =  15; control group (CG)) for 4 weeks. At pre- and post-intervention, assessment of routine blood biomarkers, body composition, running biomechanics and body temperature was performed using standardized procedures. Machine learning (ML) techniques were used to classify whether subjects belonged to IG or CG. ML model was able to correctly classify individuals as IG or CG with a median accuracy of 0.857. Leg fat mass decreased significantly (p = 0.037) and a deeper reduction in knee thermograms was observed in IG (p < 0.05). Safety evaluation revealed no significant differences in the rest of parameters studied. Subjects belonging to IG or CG are clearly differentiated, pointing into an effect of the supplement of ameliorating inflammation.
Physical Activity and Accomplishment of Recommendations in University Students with Disabilities: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Pans Miquel , Úbeda-Colomer Joan , Monforte Javier , Devís-Devís José
Published: May 2021

University settings are socio-environmental contexts that can reduce health disparities in students with disabilities. Therefore, the aim of this study was twofold: (a) to examine the longitudinal physical activity (PA) changes of Spanish university students with disabilities during a three-year period; and (b) to identify the accomplishment of the World Health Organization’s PA recommendations in this period. A three-year follow-up cohort study was conducted on 355 university students with disabilities (172 men, 183 women). The participants completed an electronic survey on PA after which a descriptive analysis, longitudinal (Wilcoxon tests) and cross-sectional pairwise comparisons (Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests) were performed on non-normal data. The results show no significant PA changes during the three-year period. The cross-sectional comparisons between the waves presented a reduction in vigorous PA according to sex and similar values by age, origin of disability, and socioeconomic status. A global reduction of 0.6% was found in achieving the recommendations between the waves. We also found an increase of 5.3% in the participants classified as overweight–obese during this period. The findings offered in this study have important implications for university disability care services and sports services. University policies should focus on rethinking PA and sports programs for students with disabilities.
Health and Social Care Inequalities: The Impact of COVID-19 on People Experiencing Homelessness in Brazil
Authors: Nunes Nilza Rogéria de Andrade , Rodriguez Andréa , Cinacchi Giovanna Bueno
Published: May 2021

This article aims to reflect on the challenges affecting people experiencing homelessness in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, due the COVID-19 pandemic. Participatory research was carried out to identify data related to sociodemographic profile; strategies for survival; health and social care support; and access to services during the pandemic. The research methodology was co-designed with NGOs and people with lived experience of homelessness and involved conducting semi-structured questionnaires with 304 participants in 2020. The results highlighted the worsening of the situation of extreme vulnerability and poverty already experienced by this population before the pandemic. Key strategies led by Third Sector organizations to reduce the spread of the virus, to minimize the financial impact of lockdown, and to increase emotional support and information on COVID-19 were presented. The conclusions show the complexity of issues affecting these groups and the need for urgent response from public policies and Government support to guarantee their rights, dignity, and respect during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Effects of a Differential Diagnosis List of Artificial Intelligence on Differential Diagnoses by Physicians: An Exploratory Analysis of Data from a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Harada Yukinori , Katsukura Shinichi , Kawamura Ren , Shimizu Taro
Published: May 2021

A diagnostic decision support system (DDSS) is expected to reduce diagnostic errors. However, its effect on physicians’ diagnostic decisions remains unclear. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence of diagnoses from artificial intelligence (AI) in physicians’ differential diagnoses when using AI-driven DDSS that generates a differential diagnosis from the information entered by the patient before the clinical encounter on physicians’ differential diagnoses. In this randomized controlled study, an exploratory analysis was performed. Twenty-two physicians were required to generate up to three differential diagnoses per case by reading 16 clinical vignettes. The participants were divided into two groups, an intervention group, and a control group, with and without a differential diagnosis list of AI, respectively. The prevalence of physician diagnosis identical with the differential diagnosis of AI (primary outcome) was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (70.2% vs. 55.1%, p < 0.001). The primary outcome was significantly >10% higher in the intervention group than in the control group, except for attending physicians, and physicians who did not trust AI. This study suggests that at least 15% of physicians’ differential diagnoses were affected by the differential diagnosis list in the AI-driven DDSS.
Purpose in Life of Elite Athletes after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Goraczko Agata , Zurek Grzegorz , Lachowicz Maciej , Zurek Alina
Published: May 2021

Background: Searching for the meaning of human existence is man’s fundamental orientation. People are free to find meaning in their lives, and while they are not always free to choose the conditions of life, they are free to choose their attitude toward the conditions in which they find themselves. When people experience an unchangeable situation, the most important thing is the attitude they take toward it. This study aimed to identify the sense of meaning in life among elite athletes after a spinal cord injury (SCI) and to analyze the different aspects contributing to this domain. Methods: The study involved five athletes with at least national-level achievements in sports prior to a SCI. The study consisted of an interview using a communicator and filling out two online questionnaires—a personal questionnaire and the Purpose in Life Scale. Results: Analyzing the quantitative results, four participants achieved results indicating a high sense of meaning in life, while one participant achieved a significantly lower result. Conclusions: What affects one’s purpose in life is not so much the objective physical limitation but how much physicality one perceives to have lost as a result of the injury. Elite athletes stay involved in the sporting environment, which prevents the loss of purpose and maintains a sense of meaning at a high level. Both telling the story of your own illness and listening to the stories of others help the process of self-healing.
Maternal and Neonatal Oral Microbiome Developmental Patterns and Correlated Factors: A Systematic Review—Does the Apple Fall Close to the Tree?
Authors: Nardi Gianna Maria , Grassi Roberta , Ndokaj Artnora , Antonioni Michela , Jedlinski Maciej , Rumi Gabriele , Grocholewicz Katarzyna , Dus-Ilnicka Irena , Grassi Felice Roberto , Ottolenghi Livia , Mazur Marta
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: The purpose of the study was to comprehensively analyze the relationship between the mother’s oral microbiome, modes of delivery and feeding, and the formation of the newborn child’s oral microbiome. (2) Methods: This systematic review included a search through MEDLINE (PubMed) database (from 2010 to July 2020). Research was registered in PROSPERO under the number CRD42021241044. (3) Results: Of the 571 studies, 11 met the inclusion criteria. Included studies were classified according to (i) child’s delivery mode, (ii) maternal exposure to antibiotics and disinfectants, and (iii) feeding type. (4) Conclusions: The interpretation of these papers shows that the type of delivery, maternal exposure to disinfectants and antibiotics during delivery, maternal health classed as overweight, gestational diabetes mellitus, and feeding type are correlated to changes in the maternal and neonatal early oral microbiomes, based on the analysis provided in this systematic review. Because no evidence exists regarding the impact of maternal diet and maternal oral health on the establishment and development of the early oral newborn microbiome, more studies are needed to deepen the knowledge and understanding of the subject and develop preventive and therapeutic strategies of support to pregnant women.
Confinement, Comfort and Health: Analysis of the Real Influence of Lockdown on University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Millán-Jiménez Antonio , Herrera-Limones Rafael , López-Escamilla Álvaro , López-Rubio Emma , Torres-García Miguel
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the population worldwide into lockdown. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of this measure on the health and comfort of university students and the role that the characteristics of the home may have played. It is essential to differentiate between the terms comfort and health both from the medical and architectural perspectives, as there are differences between the two concepts that are, nonetheless, shared by both disciplines. An online survey was fulfilled by 188 medicine and architecture undergraduate students at the University of Seville, Spain. In terms of health, 89% suffered neuropsychiatric disorders (56% anxiety and 49% depression), 38% gained weight and 59% reported alcohol consumption. In relation to comfort, the majority rated their home positively, comfortable in terms of room temperature and noise at night, and they had a good relationship with cohabitants. However, those who did not have a balcony or terrace would have liked to have open spaces They would have also liked to increase the size of their bedroom, where they spent most of their time and where they studied. A built-up environment gave them a sense of being imprisoned, while those who enjoyed open spaces found a sense of peace. The absence of open spaces in the house, the environment and the impossibility of making the most frequently used spaces more flexible may have had negative impacts on the health and comfort of university students during confinement.
Exploring Fatalities and Injuries in Construction by Considering Thermal Comfort Using Uncertainty and Relative Importance Analysis
Authors: Lee Minsu , Jeong Jaemin , Jeong Jaewook , Lee Jaehyun
Published: May 2021

Fatal injury and accidents in the construction industry occur under the influence of outdoor weather conditions such as temperature, humidity and wind speed in all four seasons. Previous research in this area has focused on hot and cold weather conditions: hot weather causes heat rash, heat cramps and heat fainting, while cold weather causes fatigue, lumbago, and cold finger sensations. However, other weather conditions are also associated with, and cause, fatal injury and accidents. Accordingly, this study analyzes injury and fatal accidents in the construction industry based on the physiological equivalent temperature (PET) as it pertains to thermal comfort using an uncertainty analysis. Furthermore, using a neural network, relative importance is analyzed considering injury and fatal accidents. This study is conducted in five steps: (i) Establishment of the database, (ii) Classification of accident types and weather conditions, (iii) Calculation of thermal comfort, (iv) Analysis of injury and fatal accidents based on thermal comfort, and (v) Calculation of the relative importance of thermal comfort during injury and fatal accidents. Via the research process, 5317 fatal incidents and 207,802 injuries are analyzed according to 18 accident types in all seasons. It was found that ‘falls’, were the most frequent fatal incident and injury (2804 fatal incidents and 71,017 injuries), with most of these occurring during the autumn season. The probabilities of injury and fatal accidents in the ‘fall’ category are 86.01% and 85.60%, respectively, in the outside comfort ranges. The contribution of this study can provide data for a database on safety management considering weather conditions.
Problematic Use of Nitrous Oxide by Young Moroccan–Dutch Adults
Authors: Nabben Ton , Weijs Jelmer , van Amsterdam Jan
Published: May 2021

The recreational use of nitrous oxide (N2O; laughing gas) has largely expanded in recent years. Although incidental use of nitrous oxide hardly causes any health damage, problematic or heavy use of nitrous oxide can lead to serious adverse effects. Amsterdam care centres noticed that Moroccan–Dutch young adults reported neurological symptoms, including severe paralysis, as a result of problematic nitrous oxide use. In this qualitative exploratory study, thirteen young adult Moroccan–Dutch excessive nitrous oxide users were interviewed. The determinants of problematic nitrous oxide use in this ethnic group are discussed, including their low treatment demand with respect to nitrous oxide abuse related medical–psychological problems. Motives for using nitrous oxide are to relieve boredom, to seek out relaxation with friends and to suppress psychosocial stress and negative thoughts. Other motives are depression, discrimination and conflict with friends or parents. The taboo culture surrounding substance use—mistrust, shame and macho culture—frustrates timely medical/psychological treatment of Moroccan–Dutch problematic nitrous oxide users. It is recommended to use influencers in media campaigns with the aim to decrease the risks of heavy nitrous oxide use and improve treatment access. Outreach youth workers can also play an important role in motivating socially isolated users to seek medical and or psychological help.
Nursing Interventions to Facilitate the Grieving Process after Perinatal Death: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fernández-Férez Alba , Ventura-Miranda Maria Isabel , Camacho-Ávila Marcos , Fernández-Caballero Antonio , Granero-Molina José , Fernández-Medina Isabel María , Requena-Mullor María del Mar
Published: May 2021

Perinatal death is the death of a baby that occurs between the 22nd week of pregnancy (or when the baby weighs more than 500 g) and 7 days after birth. After perinatal death, parents experience the process of perinatal grief. Midwives and nurses can develop interventions to improve the perinatal grief process. The aim of this review was to determine the efficacy of nursing interventions to facilitate the process of grief as a result of perinatal death. A systematic review of the literature was carried out. Studies that met the selection criteria underwent a quality assessment using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Four articles were selected out of the 640 found. Two are quasi-experimental studies, and two are randomized controlled clinical studies. The interventions that were analyzed positively improve psychological self-concept and role functions, as well as mutual commitment, depression, post-traumatic stress and symptoms of grief. These interventions are effective if they are carried out both before perinatal loss and after it has occurred. The support of health professionals for affected parents, their participation in the loss, expressing feelings and emotions, using distraction methods, group sessions, social support, physical activity, and family education are some of the effective interventions.
Early-Onset Alcohol Dependence and Multiple Sclerosis: Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Luca Maria , Chisari Clara Grazia , Zanghì Aurora , Patti Francesco
Published: May 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disorder characterized by the progressive disruption of the myelin sheath around the nerve fibres. The early initiation of disease-modifying treatments is crucial for preventing disease progression and neurological damage. Unfortunately, a diagnostic delay of several years is not uncommon, particularly in the presence of physical and mental comorbidities. Among psychiatric comorbidities, the role of alcohol misuse is still under debate. In this paper, we discuss a case of early-onset alcohol dependence and its possible role in delaying the initiation of a specific therapy for MS. The differential diagnosis between idiopathic and secondary neurodegenerative disorders is often challenging. When dealing with patients reporting an early-onset substance abuse (likely to present organic damage), clinicians may be prone to formulate a diagnosis of secondary neuropathy, particularly when facing non-specific symptoms. This case report highlights the need for in-depth medical investigations (including imaging) in the presence of neurological signs suggesting a damage of the central nervous system, prompting a differential diagnosis between idiopathic and secondary neurodegenerative conditions. Indeed, a timely diagnosis is crucial for the initiation of specific therapies positively affecting the outcome.
Observational Study on the Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Female Athletes
Authors: Velázquez-Saornil Jorge , Méndez-Sánchez Encarnación , Gómez-Sánchez Sonia , Sánchez-Milá Zacarías , Cortés-Llorente Ester , Martín-Jiménez Ana , Sánchez-Jiménez Elena , Campón-Chekroun Angélica
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To study the prevalence of UI in female athletes, the category of sports with the highest number of cases, the most incident risk factors and the bio-psycho-social consequences. Methods: Preparation of a survey, based on two validated questionnaires answered by 63 participants, to carry out an analytical, transversal and observational study. All participants were European, adult, female athletes (mean age 30.78 years, standard deviation 12.16 years). Results: UI has a high prevalence (44.4%) in female athletes (compared to 10% in non-athletes), being more frequent in those who practice long-distance running. As age and years of sport practice increase, the incidence of this pathology increases. Absorbent pads are used by more than half of women with incontinence, while the rest wet their underwear. Menopause, childbirth and surgery in the region are risk factors for UI, while the presence of urinary tract infections or candidiasis is not. The results state that urine loss does not cause anxiety or depression, but it does affect sporting life. Conclusions: The prevalence of UI in this study is very high and more common in female athletes and the incidence increases with age and other risk factors. The salient consequence of this study is that urine loss affects their sporting environment, but does not induce depression or anxiety.
A Systematic Review about Imaging and Histopathological Findings for Detecting and Evaluating Electroporation Based Treatments Response
Authors: Granata Vincenza , Fusco Roberta , Salati Simona , Petrillo Antonella , Di Bernardo Elio , Grassi Roberta , Palaia Raffaele , Danti Ginevra , La Porta Michelearcangelo , Cadossi Matteo , Gašljević Gorana , Sersa Gregor , Izzo Francesco
Published: May 2021

Background: Imaging methods and the most appropriate criteria to be used for detecting and evaluating response to oncological treatments depend on the pathology and anatomical site to be treated and on the treatment to be performed. This document provides a general overview of the main imaging and histopathological findings of electroporation-based treatments (Electrochemotherapy—ECT and Irreversible electroporation—IRE) compared to thermal approach, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), in deep-seated cancers with a particular attention to pancreatic and liver cancer. Methods: Numerous electronic datasets were examined: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The research covered the years from January 1990 to April 2021. All titles and abstracts were analyzed. The inclusion criteria were the following: studies that report imaging or histopathological findings after ablative thermal and not thermal loco-regional treatments (ECT, IRE, RFA) in deep-seated cancers including pancreatic and liver cancer and articles published in the English language. Exclusion criteria were unavailability of full text and congress abstracts or posters and different topic respect to inclusion criteria. Results: 558 potentially relevant references through electronic searches were identified. A total of 38 articles met the inclusion criteria: 20 studies report imaging findings after RFA or ECT or IRE in pancreatic and liver cancer; 17 studies report histopathological findings after RFA or ECT or IRE; 1 study reports both imaging and histopathological findings after RFA or ECT or IRE. Conclusions: Imaging features are related to the type of therapy administrated, to the timing of re-assessment post therapy and to the imaging technique being used to observe the effects. Histological findings after both ECT and IRE show that the treated area becomes necrotic and encapsulated in fibrous tissue, suggesting that the size of the treated lesion cannot be measured as an endpoint to detect response. Moreover, histology frequently reported signs of apoptosis and reduced vital tissue, implying that imaging criteria, which take into account the viability and not the size of the lesion, are more appropriate to evaluate response to treatment.
COVID-19 among Healthcare Workers in the University Clinical Hospital in Wroclaw, Poland
Authors: Drobnik Jarosław , Susło Robert , Pobrotyn Piotr , Fabich Ewa , Magiera Violetta , Diakowska Dorota , Uchmanowicz Izabella
Published: May 2021

Efforts to limit severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections among hospital healthcare staff are crucial for controlling the Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemics. The study aimed to explore the prevalence and clinical presentations of COVID-19 in healthcare workers (HCWs) at the University Clinical Hospital (UCH) in Wroclaw with 1677 beds. The retrospective study was performed in 2020 using a self-derived structured questionnaire in a sample of HCWs who were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed using a PCR double gene test and consented to be enrolled into the study. The significance level for all statistical tests was set to 0.05. The study showed that of the 4998 hospital workers, among 356 cases reported as COVID-19 infected, 70 consented to take part in the survey: nurses (48.5%), doctors (17.1%), HCWs with patient contact (10.0%), other HCWs without patient contact (7.1%), and cleaning personnel (5.7%). HCWs reported concurrent diseases such as hypertension (17.1%), bronchial asthma (5.7%), and diabetes (5.7%). Failure to keep 2 m distancing during contact (65.5%) and close contact with the infected person 14 days before the onset of symptoms or collection of biological material (58.6%) were identified as the increased risks of infection. A large part of infections in hospital healthcare staff were symptomatic (42.9%). The first symptoms of COVID-19 were general weakness (42.9%), poor mental condition (41.4%), and muscle pain (32.9%); whereas in the later stages of the illness, general weakness (38.6%), coughing (34.3%), lack of appetite (31.4%), and loss of taste (31.4%) were observed. In about 30% of the infected HCWs, there was no COVID-19 symptoms whatsoever. The vast majority of the patients were treated at home (85.7%). In conclusion, the majority of the SARS-CoV-2 infections in the hospital HCWs were asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic. Therefore, successful limitation of COVID-19 infection spread at hospitals requires a close attention to future cross-infections.
Occupational Safety of Municipal Police Officers: Assessing the Vulnerability and Riskiness of Police Officers’ Work
Authors: Soltes Viktor , Kubas Jozef , Velas Andrej , Michalík David
Published: May 2021

The municipal police agencies increase the safety of a municipality’s citizens and thus increase their quality of life. When performing interventions, municipal police officers may endanger their safety and health. This paper deals with the analysis of the riskiness of municipal police officers working in the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic from 2004 to 2019 and the assessment of their occupational safety. The risk analysis was carried out on the basis of a risk matrix and calculations of the probability of attack and injury to municipal police officers. Using the Pearson correlation coefficient, the dependence between the selected variables was investigated. The reliability of this dependence was examined by the determination coefficient. The main result of the paper is the determination of the riskiness category of municipal police officer work based on the assessment of the occupational health protection of officers through statistical indicators of their activities and risk matrix. The results will serve as part of the explanatory memorandum for the proposal of legislative changes in order to increase the occupational health protection of municipal police officers.
Environmental and Air Pollution Factors Affecting Allergic Eye Disease in Children and Adolescents in India
Authors: Das Anthony Vipin , Basu Sayan
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to describe the correlation between the meteorological and air pollution parameters with the temporal pattern of presentation of recent onset allergic eye disease (AED). This cross-sectional hospital-based study included new patients (≤21 years of age) presenting between January 2016 and August 2018 from the district of Hyderabad with a clinical diagnosis of AED and an acute exacerbation of recent onset of symptoms of less than 3 months duration. Correlation analysis was performed with the local environmental rainfall, temperature, humidity, windspeed, and air pollution. Of the 25,354 new patients hailing from the district of Hyderabad, 2494 (9.84%) patients were diagnosed with AED, of which 1062 (4.19%) patients had recent onset of symptoms. The mean monthly prevalence in this cohort was 4.13%, and the month of May (6.09%) showed the highest levels. The environmental parameters of humidity (r2 = 0.83/p = < 0.0001) and rainfall (r2 = 0.41/p = 0.0232) showed significant negative correlation, while temperature (r2 = 0.43/p = 0.0206) and ground-level ozone (r2 = 0.41/p = 0.0005) showed significant positive correlation with the temporal pattern of AED in the population. An increase in rainfall and humidity was associated with a lower prevalence, and an increase of temperature and ground-level ozone was associated with a higher prevalence of AED cases during the year among children and adolescents.
Distribution and Potential Availability of As, Metals and P in Sediments from a Riverine Reservoir in a Rural Mountainous Catchment (NE Portugal)
Authors: Reis Anabela R. , Roboredo Marta , Pinto João P. R. M. , Vieira Bernardete , Varandas Simone G. P. , Fernandes Luis F. S. , Pacheco Fernando A. L.
Published: May 2021

A geochemical investigation was carried out on the bottom sediments of a riverine reservoir, located in a mountainous rural region (NE Portugal), with the aim of evaluating the contents of As, metals and P and their potential availability. The elements contents were detected in the following ranges (µg g−1): As (18–64); Cr (32–128); Cu (39–93); Ni (18–80); Pb (49–160); Zn (207–334); P (1705–2681). The reducible fraction is the most significant in the retention of the elements. Based on their potential relative mobility, the detected metals could be classed as follows: Zn > As, Pb > Cu > Cr, Ni. The results on geochemical partitioning were revealed to be important when the Sediment Quality Guidelines (SQGs) were considered. Arsenic, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn showed total contents exceeding the values of Probable Effect Level (PEL), but only As occurred in the most potentially available form; Cr and Ni can be considered relatively unavailable, since these are mainly associated with the residual phase. Locally, oxygen depletion could release P into the water column due to the higher concentrations in Fe-P and CDB-P fractions. The potential availability of As, metals and P in sediments indicates that the quality of sediments accumulated in small reservoirs should be considered in management policies.
Altered Local Interactions and Long-Range Communications in UK Variant (B.1.1.7) Spike Glycoprotein
Authors: Borocci Stefano , Cerchia Carmen , Grottesi Alessandro , Sanna Nico , Prandi Ingrid Guarnetti , Abid Nabil , Beccari Andrea R. , Chillemi Giovanni , Talarico Carmine
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is caused by SARS-CoV-2. Currently, most of the research efforts towards the development of vaccines and antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were mainly focused on the spike (S) protein, which mediates virus entry into the host cell by binding to ACE2. As the virus SARS-CoV-2 continues to spread globally, variants have emerged, characterized by multiple mutations of the S glycoprotein. Herein, we employed microsecond-long molecular dynamics simulations to study the impact of the mutations of the S glycoprotein in SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern 202012/01 (B.1.1.7), termed the “UK variant”, in comparison with the wild type, with the aim to decipher the structural basis of the reported increased infectivity and virulence. The simulations provided insights on the different dynamics of UK and wild-type S glycoprotein, regarding in particular the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD). In addition, we investigated the role of glycans in modulating the conformational transitions of the RBD. The overall results showed that the UK mutant experiences higher flexibility in the RBD with respect to wild type; this behavior might be correlated with the increased transmission reported for this variant. Our work also adds useful structural information on antigenic “hotspots” and epitopes targeted by neutralizing antibodies.
Ecological Adaptations of Gut Microbiota Members and Their Consequences for Use as a New Generation of Probiotics
Authors: Kubasova Tereza , Seidlerova Zuzana , Rychlik Ivan
Published: May 2021

In this review, we link ecological adaptations of different gut microbiota members with their potential for use as a new generation of probiotics. Gut microbiota members differ in their adaptations to survival in aerobic environments. Interestingly, there is an inverse relationship between aerobic survival and abundance or potential for prolonged colonization of the intestinal tract. Facultative anaerobes, aerotolerant Lactobacilli and endospore-forming Firmicutes exhibit high fluctuation, and if such bacteria are to be used as probiotics, they must be continuously administered to mimic their permanent supply from the environment. On the other hand, species not expressing any form of aerobic resistance, such as those from phylum Bacteroidetes, commonly represent host-adapted microbiota members characterized by vertical transmission from mothers to offspring, capable of long-term colonization following a single dose administration. To achieve maximal probiotic efficacy, the mode of their administration should thus reflect their natural ecology.
Activated STAT3 Is a Novel Regulator of the XRCC1 Promoter and Selectively Increases XRCC1 Protein Levels in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Wright Griffin , Sonavane Manoj , Gassman Natalie R.
Published: May 2021

Base Excision Repair (BER) addresses base lesions and abasic sites induced by exogenous and endogenous stressors. X-ray cross complementing group 1 (XRCC1) functions as a scaffold protein in BER and single-strand break repair (SSBR), facilitating and coordinating repair through its interaction with a host of critical repair proteins. Alterations of XRCC1 protein and gene expression levels are observed in many cancers, including colorectal, ovarian, and breast cancer. While increases in the expression level of XRCC1 are reported, the transcription factors responsible for this up-regulation are not known. In this study, we identify the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) as a novel regulator of XRCC1 through chromatin immunoprecipitation. Activation of STAT3 through phosphorylation at Y705 by cytokine (IL-6) signaling increases the expression of XRCC1 and the occupancy of STAT3 within the XRCC1 promoter. In triple negative breast cancer, the constitutive activation of STAT3 upregulates XRCC1 gene and protein expression levels. Increased expression of XRCC1 is associated with aggressiveness and resistance to DNA damaging chemotherapeutics. Thus, we propose that activated STAT3 regulates XRCC1 under stress and growth conditions, but constitutive activation in cancers results in dysregulation of XRCC1 and subsequently BER and SSBR.
Establishment and Characterization of a Cell Line (S-RMS1) Derived from an Infantile Spindle Cell Rhabdomyosarcoma with SRF-NCOA2 Fusion Transcript
Authors: Colletti Marta , Galardi Angela , Miele Evelina , Di Paolo Virginia , Russo Ida , De Stefanis Cristiano , De Vito Rita , Rinelli Martina , Ciolfi Andrea , De Angelis Biagio , Zin Angelica , Guffanti Alessandro , Digilio Maria Cristina , Novelli Antonio , Alaggio Rita , Milano Giuseppe Maria , Di Giannatale Angela
Published: May 2021

Background: Spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma (S-RMS) is a rare tumor that was previously considered as an uncommon variant of embryonal RMS (ERMS) and recently reclassified as a distinct RMS subtype with NCOA2, NCOA1, and VGLL2 fusion genes. In this study, we established a cell line (S-RMS1) derived from a four-month-old boy with infantile spindle cell RMS harboring SRF-NCOA2 gene fusion. Methods: Morphological and molecular characteristics of S-RMS1 were analyzed and compared with two RMS cell lines, RH30 and RD18. Whole genome sequencing of S-RMS1 and clinical exome sequencing of genomic DNA were performed. Results: S-RMS1 showed cells small in size, with a fibroblast-like morphology and positivity for MyoD-1, myogenin, desmin, and smooth muscle actin. The population doubling time was 3.7 days. Whole genome sequencing demonstrated that S-RMS1 retained the same genetic profile of the tumor at diagnosis. A Western blot analysis showed downregulation of AKT-p and YAP-p while RT-qPCR showed upregulation of endoglin and GATA6 as well as downregulation of TGFßR1 and Mef2C transcripts. Conclusion: This is the first report of the establishment of a cell line from an infantile spindle cell RMS with SRF-NCOA2 gene fusion. S-RMS1 should represent a useful tool for the molecular characterization of this rare and almost unknown tumor.
Altered Signal Transduction in the Immune Response to Influenza Virus and S. pneumoniae or S. aureus Co-Infections
Authors: Wilden Janine J. , Jacob Jasmin C. , Ehrhardt Christina , Ludwig Stephan , Boergeling Yvonne
Published: May 2021

Influenza virus is a well-known respiratory pathogen, which still leads to many severe pulmonary infections in the human population every year. Morbidity and mortality rates are further increased if virus infection coincides with co-infections or superinfections caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). This enhanced pathogenicity is due to complex interactions between the different pathogens and the host and its immune system and is mainly governed by altered intracellular signaling processes. In this review, we summarize the recent findings regarding the innate and adaptive immune responses during co-infection with influenza virus and S. pneumoniae or S. aureus, describing the signaling pathways involved and how these interactions influence disease outcomes.
Reduction of Superoxide Dismutase 1 Delays Regeneration of Cardiotoxin-Injured Skeletal Muscle in KK/Ta-Ins2Akita Mice with Progressive Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Takahashi Yuya , Shimizu Tatsunori , Kato Shunsuke , Nara Mitsuhiko , Suganuma Yumi , Sato Takehiro , Morii Tsukasa , Yamada Yuichiro , Fujita Hiroki
Published: May 2021

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a major antioxidant enzyme for superoxide removal, and cytoplasmic SOD (SOD1) is expressed as a predominant isoform in all cells. We previously reported that renal SOD1 deficiency accelerates the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) via increasing renal oxidative stress. To evaluate whether the degree of SOD1 expression determines regeneration capacity and sarcopenic phenotypes of skeletal muscles under incipient and advanced DN conditions, we investigated the alterations of SOD1 expression, oxidative stress marker, inflammation, fibrosis, and regeneration capacity in cardiotoxin (CTX)-injured tibialis anterior (TA) muscles of two Akita diabetic mouse models with different susceptibility to DN, DN-resistant C57BL/6-Ins2Akita and DN-prone KK/Ta-Ins2Akita mice. Here, we report that KK/Ta-Ins2Akita mice, but not C57BL/6-Ins2Akita mice, exhibit delayed muscle regeneration after CTX injection, as demonstrated by the finding indicating significantly smaller average cross-sectional areas of regenerating TA muscle myofibers relative to KK/Ta-wild-type mice. Furthermore, we observed markedly reduced SOD1 expression in CTX-injected TA muscles of KK/Ta-Ins2Akita mice, but not C57BL/6-Ins2Akita mice, along with increased inflammatory cell infiltration, prominent fibrosis and superoxide overproduction. Our study provides the first evidence that SOD1 reduction and the following superoxide overproduction delay skeletal muscle regeneration through induction of overt inflammation and fibrosis in a mouse model of progressive DN.
The Role of HPA Axis and Allopregnanolone on the Neurobiology of Major Depressive Disorders and PTSD
Authors: Almeida Felipe Borges , Pinna Graziano , Barros Helena Maria Tannhauser
Published: May 2021

Under stressful conditions, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis acts to promote transitory physiological adaptations that are often resolved after the stressful stimulus is no longer present. In addition to corticosteroids (e.g., cortisol), the neurosteroid allopregnanolone (3α,5α-tetrahydroprogesterone, 3α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one) participates in negative feedback mechanisms that restore homeostasis. Chronic, repeated exposure to stress impairs the responsivity of the HPA axis and dampens allopregnanolone levels, participating in the etiopathology of psychiatric disorders, such as major depressive disorder (MDD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). MDD and PTSD patients present abnormalities in the HPA axis regulation, such as altered cortisol levels or failure to suppress cortisol release in the dexamethasone suppression test. Herein, we review the neurophysiological role of allopregnanolone both as a potent and positive GABAergic neuromodulator but also in its capacity of inhibiting the HPA axis. The allopregnanolone function in the mechanisms that recapitulate stress-induced pathophysiology, including MDD and PTSD, and its potential as both a treatment target and as a biomarker for these disorders is discussed.
Ribosome Biogenesis and Cancer: Overview on Ribosomal Proteins
Authors: Pecoraro Annalisa , Pagano Martina , Russo Giulia , Russo Annapina
Published: May 2021

Cytosolic ribosomes (cytoribosomes) are macromolecular ribonucleoprotein complexes that are assembled from ribosomal RNA and ribosomal proteins, which are essential for protein biosynthesis. Mitochondrial ribosomes (mitoribosomes) perform translation of the proteins essential for the oxidative phosphorylation system. The biogenesis of cytoribosomes and mitoribosomes includes ribosomal RNA processing, modification and binding to ribosomal proteins and is assisted by numerous biogenesis factors. This is a major energy-consuming process in the cell and, therefore, is highly coordinated and sensitive to several cellular stressors. In mitochondria, the regulation of mitoribosome biogenesis is essential for cellular respiration, a process linked to cell growth and proliferation. This review briefly overviews the key stages of cytosolic and mitochondrial ribosome biogenesis; summarizes the main steps of ribosome biogenesis alterations occurring during tumorigenesis, highlighting the changes in the expression level of cytosolic ribosomal proteins (CRPs) and mitochondrial ribosomal proteins (MRPs) in different types of tumors; focuses on the currently available information regarding the extra-ribosomal functions of CRPs and MRPs correlated to cancer; and discusses the role of CRPs and MRPs as biomarkers and/or molecular targets in cancer treatment.