bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired Left Atrial Performance Resulting From Age-Related Arial Fibrillation Is Associated With Increased Fibrosis Burden: Insights From a Clinical Study Combining With an in vivo Experiment
Authors: Lin Kai-bin , Chen Kan-kai , Li Shuai , Cai Ming-qi , Yuan Min-jie , Wang Yan-peng , Zhang Xue , Wei Meng , Yan Mei-Ling , Ma Xin-Xin , Zheng Dong-Yan , Wu Qi-han , Li Jing-bo , Huang Dong
Published: February 2021

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly considered an age-related degenerative disease, whose process is associated with the development of impaired left atrial (LA) performance. However, the subtle dynamic changes of LA performance in AF during aging have yet to be fully elucidated. Atrial fibrosis is a key substrate for the development of AF, but the progression of fibrosis during aging and its relationship with LA dysfunction need to be further explored.

Methods: A total of 132 control individuals and 117 persistent AF patients were prospectively studied. Subjects were further stratified into three age groups (age group 1: younger than 65 years, age group 2: between 65 and 79 years old, and age group 3: older than 80 years). The two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging was carried out for analyzing the alterations in LA function underlying LA remodeling, whereas electroanatomic mapping was performed to investigate LA fibrosis burden. In animal study, aged mice and young mice served as research subjects. Echocardiography and histological staining were used to assess LA performance and fibrosis burden, respectively.

Results: Echocardiography showed progressive increases in LA dimension and LA stiffness index, and progressive decreases in LA global longitudinal strain and LA strain rates with advancing age in both AF and control cohorts, which was more prominent in AF cohort. Electroanatomic mapping showed progressive decrease in mean LA voltage and progressive increases in LA surface area, low-voltage area %, and LA volume with advancing age, whereas more significant alterations were observed in AF patients. Moreover, left atrial global longitudinal strain was positively correlated with mean LA voltage, whereas LA stiffness index was negatively related to mean LA voltage. In animal experiment, increased LA size and pulmonary artery dimension as well as longer P-wave duration and more prominent LA fibrosis were found in aged mice.

Conclusions: This study provides new evidence of subtle changes in structure and performance of left atrium and their association with atrial fibrosis in both AF and non-AF subjects during physiological aging. In addition, our study also provides normal values for LA structure and performance in both AF and non-AF conditions during aging. These measurements may provide an early marker for onset of AF and LA adverse remodeling.
Case Report: Ambient Sensor Signals as Digital Biomarkers for Early Signs of Heart Failure Decompensation
Authors: Saner Hugo , Schuetz Narayan , Buluschek Philipp , Du Pasquier Guillaume , Ribaudo Giuseppe , Urwyler Prabitha , Nef Tobias
Published: February 2021

Home monitoring systems are increasingly used to monitor seniors in their apartments for detection of emergency situations. More recently, multimodal ambient sensor systems are also used to monitor digital biomarkers to detect clinically relevant health problems over longer time periods. Clinical signs of HF decompensation including increase of heart rate and respiration rate, decreased physical activity, reduced gait speed, increasing toilet use at night and deterioration of sleep quality have a great potential to be detected by non-intrusive contactless ambient sensor systems and negative changes of these parameters may be used to prevent further deterioration and hospitalization for HF decompensation. This is to our knowledge the first report about the potential of an affordable, contactless, and unobtrusive ambient sensor system for the detection of early signs of HF decompensation based on data with prospective data acquisition and retrospective correlation of the data with clinical events in a 91 year old senior with a serious heart problem over 1 year. The ambient sensor system detected an increase of respiration rate, heart rate, toilet use at night, toss, and turns in bed and a decrease of physical activity weeks before the decompensation. In view of the rapidly increasing prevalence of HF and the related costs for the health care systems and the societies, the real potential of our approach should be evaluated in larger populations of HF patients.
Quantitative Evaluation of Tight Sandstone Reservoir Based on Diagenetic Facies—A Case of Lower Silurian Kepingtage Formation in Shuntuoguole Low Uplift, Tarim Basin, China
Authors: Li Bin , Zhang Hanbing , Xia Qingsong , Peng Jun , Guo Qiang
Published: February 2021

The tight sandstone reservoirs of the Lower Silurian Kepingtage Formation are important exploratory targets for tight gas resources in the Shuntuoguole Low Uplift of Tarim Basin. How to evaluate tight sandstone reservoir is an urgent problem to be solved. In this study, we investigated the effects of diagenesis on the heterogeneity of tight sandstone deposits in similar sedimentary facies and established the relationship between the diagenetic facies and reservoir quality. Cores of the tight sandstone reservoirs of Lower Silurian Kepingtage Formation in Shuntuoguole Low Uplift are studied with thin section observation, SEM, XRD, and mercury injection. Quantification of diagenesis influencing porosity suggests that sandstone densification is mainly controlled by compaction, cementation, and hydrocarbon charging (bitumen charging), and the reservoir properties are effectively improved by dissolution, based on which 6 types of diagenetic facies are classified. Interpretation of the log data from individual wells with “K nearest neighbor” algorithm concludes that top and base of the upper member of Kepingtage Formation are believed to have favorably diagenetic reservoirs mainly falling in Type V; favorably diagenetic facies develop best in the lower member of Kepingtage Formation predominated by Types V and VI which mainly distribute in its top. Composite analysis of diagenetic facies, sedimentary facies, and porosity distribution shows that the favorable area of further exploration and development is east of Well SH903 and north of Well SH10. The quantitative identification of diagenetic facies based on logging information can provide reasonable results for the evolution of the tight sandstone reservoirs for a similar area in the Tarim Basin.
The Complexity of Comparative Judgments in Assessing Argumentative Writing: An Eye Tracking Study
Authors: Gijsen Marijn , van Daal Tine , Lesterhuis Marije , Gijbels David , De Maeyer Sven
Published: February 2021

Comparative judgment (CJ) has been recently introduced in the educational field as a means of assessing competences. In this judgement process, assessors are presented with two pieces of student work and are asked to choose which one is better in relation to the competencies being assessed. However, since student work is heterogeneous and highly information loaded, it raises the question as to whether this type of assessment is too complex for assessors to use. Previous research on the topic has operationalized experienced complexity by employing self-report measures, which have been criticized for common problems associated with their use. In our study, we used eye tracking to study 23 high school teachers when they made 10 comparative judgments, and their pupil diameter was used as an indicator of the experienced complexity. This study builds on previous research that integrated Campbell’s theory on task complexity (1988) into CJ. Based on this framework, three hypotheses regarding the role of decision accuracy were formulated and empirically tested. Hypothesis one assumes that the distance between two pieces of student work on the rank-order (rank-order distance) is negatively related to experienced complexity, irrespective of decision accuracy. Hypothesis two assumes that decision accuracy moderates the relationship between rank-order distance and experienced complexity. Hypothesis three builds on hypothesis two by adding a negative relationship between experience and experienced complexity. In all three hypotheses, the average experienced complexity is assumed to vary between assessors, as is the strength of the expected relationships. An information-theoretic approach was used to test the holding of all three hypotheses. All hypotheses were translated into statistical models, and their relative and absolute fit were assessed. Results provided strong evidence for hypothesis three: both the moderating role of decision accuracy on the relationship between rank-order distance and experienced complexity, and the relationship between experience and experienced complexity, were confirmed.
Thermal Analysis of Co-Utilization of Empty Fruit Bunch and Silantek Coal Under Inert Atmosphere Using Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA)
Authors: Hamzah Nurul Syazmimi , Idris Siti Shawalliah , Rahman Norazah Abd , Abu Bakar Noor Fitrah , Matali Sharmeela
Published: February 2021

Agricultural residues have been traditionally used as energy resources for many years. In light of current environmental and fossil fuel supplies for energy applications, agricultural residues are regarded as sustainable supplies for energy production. However, the suitability to be renewable fuel and as a co-fuel in coal combustion facilities has to be investigated. A thermal analysis was conducted to investigate the effect of the blending and heating rate of the thermal behavior of Malaysian bituminous coal (Silantek), oil palm biomass (empty fruit bunch), and their blends using thermogravimetric analysis. The investigation was done in an inert atmosphere at the heating rate of 10, 20, and 40°C/min. Characteristics including proximate, ultimate, and calorific analyses were also examined. Six different mass ratios were selected from both samples to study the effect of blending of the two materials. The results showed that thermal degradation of empty fruit bunch (EFB) occurred in three stages while Silantek coal (SC) only involved two regions due to their different fuel properties. The blending of both SC/EFB did not follow their individual samples, which showed non-additive behavior suggesting that there is an interaction between coal and biomass. The outcome of this research provides insight on the behavior of Malaysian bituminous coal and oil palm biomass, which enhances knowledge for the future of energy generation.
Hybrid-Model-Based Deep Reinforcement Learning for Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning Control
Authors: Zhao Huan , Zhao Junhua , Shu Ting , Pan Zibin
Published: February 2021

Buildings account for a large proportion of the total energy consumption in many countries and almost half of the energy consumption is caused by the Heating, Ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. The model predictive control of HVAC is a complex task due to the dynamic property of the system and environment, such as temperature and electricity price. Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) is a model-free method that utilizes the “trial and error” mechanism to learn the optimal policy. However, the learning efficiency and learning cost are the main obstacles of the DRL method to practice. To overcome this problem, the hybrid-model-based DRL method is proposed for the HVAC control problem. Firstly, a specific MDPs is defined by considering the energy cost, temperature violation, and action violation. Then the hybrid-model-based DRL method is proposed, which utilizes both the knowledge-driven model and the data-driven model during the whole learning process. Finally, the protection mechanism and adjusting reward methods are used to further reduce the learning cost. The proposed method is tested in a simulation environment using the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) electricity price data and New South Wales temperature data. Simulation results show that 1) the DRL method can reduce the energy cost while maintaining the temperature satisfactory compared to the short term MPC method; 2) the proposed method improves the learning efficiency and reduces the learning cost during the learning process compared to the model-free method.
Functionally Competent, PD-1+ CD8+ Trm Cells Populate the Brain Following Local Antigen Encounter
Authors: Schøller Amalie Skak , Nazerai Loulieta , Christensen Jan Pravsgaard , Thomsen Allan Randrup
Published: February 2021

Expression of programmed cell death-1 receptor (PD-1) has traditionally been linked to T-cell exhaustion, as signalingviaPD-1 dampens the functionality of T-cells upon repetitive antigen exposures during chronic infections. However, resent findings pointing to the involvement of PD-1 both in T-cell survival and in restraining immunopathology, challenge the concept of PD-1 solely as marker for T-cell exhaustion. Tissue resident memory T cells (Trms) hold unique effector qualities, but within a delicate organ like the CNS, these protective abilities could potentially be harmful. In contrast to their counterparts in many other tissues, brain derived CD8+Trms have been found to uniformly and chronically express PD-1. In this study we utilized a recently established model system for generating CNS Trms in order to improve our understanding regarding the role of PD-1 expression by Trms inside the CNS. By intracerebral (i.c.) inoculation with a non-replicating adeno-viral vector, we induced a PD-1hiCD8+T cell memory population within the CNS. We found that PD-1 expression lowered the severity of clinical disease associated with the i.c. inoculation. Furthermore, high levels of PD-L1 expression were found on the infiltrating monocytes and macrophages as well as on the resident microglia, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes during the acute phase of the response. Additionally, we showed that the intensity of PD-1 expression correlates with local antigen encounter and found that PD-1 expression was associated with decreased CD8+T cell memory formation in the CNS despite an increased number of infiltrating CD8+T cells. Most importantly, our experiments revealed that despite expression of PD-1 and several additional markers linked to T-cell exhaustion, Tim-3, Lag-3 and CD39, the cells did not show signs of limited effector capacity. Collectively, these results endorse the increasing amount of evidence pointing to an immune-modifying role for PD-1 expression within the CNS, a mechanism we found to correlate with local antigen exposure.
Legend of the Sentinels: Development of Lung Resident Memory T Cells and Their Roles in Diseases
Authors: Qian Youkun , Zhu Yicheng , Li Yangyang , Li Bin
Published: February 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is wreaking havoc around the world. To get the world back on track, hundreds of vaccines are under development. A deeper understanding of how the immune system responds to SARS-CoV-2 re-infection will certainly help. Studies have highlighted various aspects of T cell response in resolving acute infection and preventing re-infections. Lung resident memory T (TRM) cells are sentinels in the secondary immune response. They are mostly differentiated from effector T cells, construct specific niches and stay permanently in lung tissues. If the infection recurs, locally activated lung TRM cells can elicit rapid immune response against invading pathogens. In addition, they can significantly limit tumor growth or lead to pathologic immune responses. Vaccines targeting TRM cells are under development, with the hope to induce stable and highly reactive lung TRM cells through mucosal administration or “prime-and-pull” strategy. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in lung TRM cell generation and maintenance, explore their roles in different diseases and discuss how these cells may guide the development of future vaccines targeting infectious disease, cancer, and pathologic immune response.
Seasonal Changes in Microbial Communities Associated With the Jewel Anemone Corynactis viridis
Authors: Palladino Giorgia , Biagi Elena , Rampelli Simone , Musella Margherita , D’Amico Federica , Turroni Silvia , Brigidi Patrizia , Luna Gian Marco , Candela Marco
Published: February 2021

Increasing evidence indicates that host-associated microbial communities play a key role in the biology of marine eukaryotic organisms. Amongst them, Corallimorpharia are extensively found on reefs, carpeting vast reef areas, where they can exert important roles as habitat forming holobionts, being at the base of complex trophic webs. Here we explore the bacterial community structure, and its changes across different seasons, associated with the jewel anemone Corynactis viridis, an anthozoan Cnidaria that is widely distributed in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Samples were collected in the North Adriatic Sea in three seasons and the community composition was studied using 16S rDNA sequencing. We show that C. viridis-associated microbial communities are unique and significantly different from those in the surrounding seawater. Interestingly, we observe remarkable changes in the C. viridis microbiome according to seasonality. In particular, the C. viridis microbiome is capable of rearranging its overall ecological structure with the winter-summer transition, moving from an oligotrophic anaerobic community to a heterotrophic ecosystem, with the propensity to ferment proteins and complex polysaccharides. Our findings demonstrate that C. viridis has a unique associated microbiota and suggest that this is capable of adapting to seasonal changes in the host physiology, by establishing a microbiome-host interaction process whose relevance to C. viridis has yet to be determined.
Social Network Structure Is Related to Functional Improvement From Home-Based Telerehabilitation After Stroke
Authors: Podury Archana , Raefsky Sophia M. , Dodakian Lucy , McCafferty Liam , Le Vu , McKenzie Alison , See Jill , Zhou Robert J. , Nguyen Thalia , Vanderschelden Benjamin , Wong Gene , Nazarzai Laila , Heckhausen Jutta , Cramer Steven C. , Dhand Amar
Published: February 2021

Objective: Telerehabilitation (TR) is now, in the context of COVID-19, more clinically relevant than ever as a major source of outpatient care. The social network of a patient is a critical yet understudied factor in the success of TR that may influence both engagement in therapy programs and post-stroke outcomes. We designed a 12-week home-based TR program for stroke patients and evaluated which social factors might be related to motor gains and reduced depressive symptoms.

Methods: Stroke patients (n = 13) with arm motor deficits underwent supervised home-based TR for 12 weeks with routine assessments of motor function and mood. At the 6-week midpoint, we mapped each patient's personal social network and evaluated relationships between social network metrics and functional improvements from TR. Finally, we compared social networks of TR patients with a historical cohort of 176 stroke patients who did not receive any TR to identify social network differences.

Results: Both network size and network density were related to walk time improvement (p = 0.025; p = 0.003). Social network density was related to arm motor gains (p = 0.003). Social network size was related to reduced depressive symptoms (p = 0.015). TR patient networks were larger (p = 0.012) and less dense (p = 0.046) than historical stroke control networks.

Conclusions: Social network structure is positively related to improvement in motor status and mood from TR. TR patients had larger and more open social networks than stroke patients who did not receive TR. Understanding how social networks intersect with TR outcomes is crucial to maximize effects of virtual rehabilitation.
Antidepressant-Like Effect of Geniposide in Mice Exposed to a Chronic Mild Stress Involves the microRNA-298-5p-Mediated Nox1
Authors: Zou Tianyu , Zhang Jielin , Liu Yongxiu , Zhang Yiming , Sugimoto Kazuo , Mei Cheng
Published: February 2021

Depression is a common mental disorder that presents a considerable challenge for public health. The natural product geniposide has neuroprotective effects on depression, but the underlying mechanism behind these effects had remained undefined. The present study was designed to investigate the role of microRNAs (miRs) in this mechanism. It studied mice with depression-like behavior established by exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for 2 months. The CUMS mice were intragastrically fed with geniposide at a dose of 10 ml/kg daily for two consecutive weeks. We monitored the depression-like behaviors of the CUMS mice by the forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). Then, we measured the cerebral expression of miR-298-5p and NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox1) mRNA in the CUMS mice by the RT-qPCR. The targeting relationship between miR-298-5p and Nox1 was evaluated by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The concentrations of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined by the CellTiter-Glo® and flow cytometry, respectively. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was detected using JC-1 staining. Moreover, the expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and TGF-β) was determined by ELISA, RT-qPCR, and western blot analysis. We found that miR-298-5p was poorly-expressed while Nox1 was highly-expressed in the brain tissues of the CUMS-induced mice. Intriguingly, Geniposide treatment reversed the behavioral abnormalities of CUMS mice, including shortened immobility time. Geniposide inhibited the Nox1 expression by increasing miR-298-5p levels. There were increased ATP content and MMP and reduced contents of ROS and inflammatory cytokines in the CUMS mice receiving geniposide treatment. Hence, this study revealed an antidepressant effect of geniposide on CUMS-induced depression-like behavior in mice by down-regulating the miR-298-5p-targeted Nox1. This highlights a novel candidate target for the treatment of depression.
Synthesis and Preliminary Evaluation of a Novel 18F-Labeled 2-Nitroimidazole Derivative for Hypoxia Imaging
Authors: Lu Jing , Zhang Chi , Yang Xi , Yao Xi-Juan , Zhang Qun , Sun Xin-Chen
Published: February 2021

Objective

Hypoxia is prevalent in tumors and plays a pivotal role in resistance to chemoradiotherapy. 18F-MISO (18F-labeled fluoromisonidazole) is currently the preferred choice of PET hypoxia tracers in clinical practice, but has severe disadvantages involving complex labeling methods and low efficient imaging due to lipophilicity. We aimed to design a novel nitroimidazole derivative labeled by 18F via a chelation technique to detect hypoxic regions and provide a basis for planning radiotherapy.

Materials and Methods

First, we synthesized a 2-nitroimidazole precursor, 2-[4-(carboxymethyl)-7-[2-(2-(2-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)acetamido)ethyl]-1,4,7-triazanonan-1-yl]acetic acid (NOTA-NI). For 18F-labeling, a 18F solution was reacted with a mixture of AlCl3 and NOTA-NI at pH 3.5 and 100°C for 20 min, and the radiochemical purity and stability were evaluated. Biological behaviors of Al18F-NOTA-NI were analyzed by an uptake study in ECA109 normoxic and hypoxic cells, and a biodistribution study and microPET imaging in ECA109 xenografted mice.

Results

Al18F-NOTA-NI required a straightforward and efficient labeling procedure compared with 18F-MISO. The uptake values were distinctly higher in hypoxic tumor cells. Animal studies revealed that the imaging agent was principally excreted via the kidneys. Due to hydrophilicity, the radioactivities in blood and muscle were decreased, and we could clearly distinguish xenografted tumors from para-carcinoma tissue by PET imaging.

Conclusions

The nitroimidazole tracer Al18F-NOTA-NI steadily accumulated in hypoxic areas in tumors and was rapidly eliminated from normal tissue. It appears to be a promising candidate for hypoxia imaging with high sensitivity and resolution.
Case Report: Pseudoprogression With Nivolumab and Bevacizumab Followed by Recurrent Immune-Related Pneumonitis in Urothelial Carcinoma With Lung Metastasis
Authors: Yang Zizhong , Zhang Guoqing , Sun Qiong , Liu Minglu , Shao Jiakang , Jiao Shunchang
Published: February 2021

Background

Combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and antiangiogenic agents is generally effective and well tolerated and might be effective for metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC). However, ICI treatment is often associated with unique responses, such as pseudoprogression and ICI-related pneumonitis (CIP), which may influence clinical decision making and affect treatment. Although there have been many studies on the mechanism of pseudoprogression and CIP, the characteristics and relationship of these special events in a clinical setting remain rarely reported.

Case Presentation

Here, we present a patient with lung metastatic UC who underwent surgery and two lines of chemotherapy. The programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) inhibitor nivolumab and antiangiogenics agent bevacizumab were used as maintenance treatments. The patient experienced pseudoprogression after 2 PD-1 inhibitor cycles. The lesions in both lungs were enlarged on computed tomography (CT) imaging, and treatments were continued for another two cycles, after which the tumor size decreased to below baseline, followed by a durable response. However, after 4 months of pseudoprogression, the patient then developed CIP. The CIP was responsive to glucocorticoid therapy but recurred during ICI rechallenge, leading to the termination of immune therapy. Ultimately, the patient achieved durable, stable disease for over 18 months without further anticancer treatment.

Conclusions

Our case shows that pseudoprogression can occur in UC during immunotherapy even when combined with an effective antiangiogenic agent. In addition, pseudoprogression may be correlated with future adverse effects and a durable response. In the management of CIP, early rechallenge with ICIs may lead to CIP recurrence, which could be more severe and needs to be treated early and with appropriate drugs. Clinicians should be aware of atypical responses to ICIs and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and Cancer Risk
Authors: Scully Tiffany , Ettela Abora , LeRoith Derek , Gallagher Emily Jane
Published: February 2021

Obesity and type 2 diabetes have both been associated with increased cancer risk and are becoming increasingly prevalent. Metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia are associated with both obesity and type 2 diabetes and have been implicated in the obesity-cancer relationship. Multiple mechanisms have been proposed to link obesity and diabetes with cancer progression, including an increase in insulin/IGF-1 signaling, lipid and glucose uptake and metabolism, alterations in the profile of cytokines, chemokines, and adipokines, as well as changes in the adipose tissue directly adjacent to the cancer sites. This review aims to summarize and provide an update on the epidemiological and mechanistic evidence linking obesity and type 2 diabetes with cancer, focusing on the roles of insulin, lipids, and adipose tissue.
DNA N6-Methyladenine (6mA) Modification Regulates Drug Resistance in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Sheng Xianneng , Wang Jinqiu , Guo Yu , Zhang Jiabo , Luo Jin
Published: February 2021

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer with strong aggressiveness and poor clinical treatment effect, accounting for about 10–20% of breast cancer cases. N(6)-methyldeoxyadenosine (6mA) is the most conservative DNA modification in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. It is widely found in bacteria and has such functions as DNA mismatch repair, chromosome separation and virulence regulation. We determined that 6mA was modified in TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231 and the TNBC tissue. Meanwhile, compared with normal tissues, the expression level of 6mA and its methylase N6AMT1 was significantly decreased in TNBC tissue. MDA-MB-231cells were cultured with 8μM Olaparib for 2 months to construct drug-resistant cell line 231-RO. It was found that the level of 6mA also increased significantly, and the expression of N6AMT1 or ALKBH1 could effectively influence the drug resistance. Subsequently, we found that LINP1 was highly expressed in 231-RO, which was involved in DNA repair, and the expression of LINP1 could be positively regulated by 6mA modification. LINP1 expression level is directly related to TNBC drug resistance. The above results indicate that 6mA may be a new biological marker of TNBC. Meanwhile, 6mA modification may be involved in the regulation of Olaparib resistance.
Enhanced Healthspan in Caenorhabditis elegans Treated With Extracts From the Traditional Chinese Medicine Plants Cuscuta chinensis Lam. and Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.
Authors: Sayed Shimaa M. A. , Siems Karsten , Schmitz-Linneweber Christian , Luyten Walter , Saul Nadine
Published: February 2021

To uncover potential anti-aging capacities of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans was used to investigate the effects of Eucommia ulmoides and Cuscuta chinensis extracts, selected by screening seven TCM extracts, on different healthspan parameters. Nematodes exposed to E. ulmoides and C. chinensis extracts, starting at the young adult stage, exhibited prolonged lifespan and increased survival after heat stress as well as upon exposure to the pathogenic bacterium Photorhabdus luminescens, whereby the survival benefits were monitored after stress initiation at different adult stages. However, only C. chinensis had the ability to enhance physical fitness: the swimming behavior and the pharyngeal pumping rate of C. elegans were improved at day 7 and especially at day 12 of adulthood. Finally, monitoring the red fluorescence of aged worms revealed that only C. chinensis extracts caused suppression of intestinal autofluorescence, a known marker of aging. The results underline the different modes of action of the tested plants extracts. E. ulmoides improved specifically the physiological fitness by increasing the survival probability of C. elegans after stress, while C. chinensis seems to be an overall healthspan enhancer, reflected in the suppressed autofluorescence, with beneficial effects on physical as well as physiological fitness. The C. chinensis effects may be hormetic: this is supported by increased gene expression of hsp-16.1 and by trend, also of hsp-12.6.
Case Report: Investigation of the Time Evolution of Optical Breakdown Plasma During Irradiation of Aqueous Solutions of Fe Nanoparticles
Authors: Baimler Ilya V. , Chevokin Viktor K. , Podvyaznikov Vitaliy A. , Gudkov Sergey V.
Published: February 2021

The time sweeps of images of optical breakdown plasma flashes under irradiation of aqueous solutions of Fe nanoparticles with Nd: YAG laser radiation (λ = 1,064 nm, τ = 10 ns, ν = 10 kHz, ε = 2 mJ) are studied. It is shown that the sizes of plasma flares, the plasma glow intensity, and the time to reach the maximum intensity are concentrated around certain values. So, for example, the values of 30 μm are most typical for the maximum size of flares. The maximum luminescence is usually reached in 3–4 ns. It is found that at initial stage of optical breakdown process the water-vapor boundary moves at typical speed of 11 km/s and have maximum and minimum values at 15 and 4 km/s respectively. It is assumed in this work that such a distribution may be associated with the initiation of breakdown on nanoparticles located in different places of the laser radiation waist.
MiR-143-3p Inhibits Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Periodontal Ligament Cells by Targeting KLF5 and Inactivating the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Wangzhou Kaixin , Lai Zhiying , Lu Zishao , Fu Wanren , Liu Cheng , Liang Zhengeng , Tan Yi , Li Conghui , Hao Chunbo
Published: February 2021

Human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) play a vital role in cell regeneration and tissue repair with multi-directional differentiation potential. microRNAs (miRs) are implicated in the osteogenesis of hPDLCs. This study explored the mechanism of miR-143-3p in osteogenesis of hPDLCs. Osteogenic differentiation of isolated hPDLCs was induced. KLF5 expression during osteogenic differentiation of hPDLCs was detected and then silenced in hPDLCs. Binding relationship between KLF5 and miR-143-3p was predicted and verified. hPDLCs were treated with miR-143-3p mimic or overexpressing KLF5, and then osteogenic specific markers and mineralized nodules were measured. The key factors of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway during osteogenesis of hPDLCs were measured. KLF5 expression was upregulated during osteogenesis of hPDLCs. KLF5 silencing or miR-143-3p mimic reduced osteogenic specific markers and mineralized nodules. Overexpression of KLF5 could reverse the inhibitory effect of miR-143-3p on osteogenic differentiation. miR-143-3p mimic and KLF5 silencing inactivated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway reversed the repression effect of miR-143-3p mimic on osteogenesis of hPDLCs. In conclusion, miR-143-3p inhibited osteogenic differentiation of hPDLCs by targeting KLF5 and inactivating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Spatial Abilities for Architecture: Cross Sectional and Longitudinal Assessment With Novel and Existing Spatial Ability Tests
Authors: Berkowitz Michal , Gerber Andri , Thurn Christian M. , Emo Beatrix , Hoelscher Christoph , Stern Elsbeth
Published: February 2021

This study examined individual differences in spatial abilities of architecture students. Students at different educational levels were assessed on spatial ability tests that varied in their domain-specificity to architecture, with the hypothesis that larger differences between beginner and advanced students will emerge on more domain-specific tests. We also investigated gender differences in test performance and controlled for general reasoning ability across analyses. In a cross sectional study, master students (N= 91) outperformed beginners (N= 502) on two novel tests involving perspective taking and object composition, as well as on a standardized visualization of cross-sections test, but not on a standardized mental rotations test. Longitudinally (N= 117), spatial performance improved after the first bachelor year on visualization of cross-sections, object composition and mental rotation. Although both genders showed higher spatial test performance with increased experience, male students outperformed females across tests and levels of education. The results overall confirmed improvements in spatial performance during architecture studies, with partial support for the domain-specificity hypothesis. A gender gap among advanced students calls for further examining architecture-specific spatial thinking.
Manzuaat wa Musharadat, Uprooted and Scattered: Refugee Women Escape Journey and the Longing to Return to Syria
Authors: Rizkalla Niveen , Adi Suher , Mallat Nour Khaddaj , Soudi Laila , Arafa Rahma , Segal Steven P.
Published: February 2021

Objective

Violent conflict forced millions of Syrians to flee their homes to host countries. This study examines Syrian refugee women’s experiences from the war’s outset through their journey to Jordan. It addresses the toll this journey had on their lives.

Methods

Twenty-four in-depth interviews were completed with Syrian refugee women who currently reside in urban areas of Jordan. Researchers translated, transcribed, and analyzed the interviews using group narrative methodology.

Results

The Syrian women had unique nostalgic memories of times before the war. They experienced atrocities during the war that forced their decision to escape Syria. Their journey narratives testify of internal displacement, personal and collective traumatic journeys via legal and illegal routes. Almost all the women were placed in refugee camps during their transitions to host country residency. In Jordan, they faced diverse hurdles of displacement and extremely different realities compared to the ones they had in Syria. Despite how very different but difficult each of their journeys were, every single woman longed to return home to Syria.

Conclusions

This study presents a new understanding of the role and process of the journeys undertaken and highlights the concept of “return” as the defining element for Syrian refugee women. Regardless of the hardships women endured to escape their homeland to find safety, “return” marks an ending to their horror journey and the beginning of a new journey of hope for a better future.
Innovation in Isolation? COVID-19 Lockdown Stringency and Culture-Innovation Relationships
Authors: Kapoor Hansika , Ticku Arunima , Tagat Anirudh , Karandikar Sampada
Published: February 2021

In a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19 in 2020, several countries implemented lockdown procedures to varying degrees. This article sought to examine the extent to which country-level strictness, as measured by the Government Response Stringency Index (2020), moderated the relationship between certain cultural dimensions and estimates of national innovation. Data on 84 countries were collated for Hofstede’s cultural dimensions (2015), and from the Global Innovation Index (2020). Owing to the robust relationships between innovation and the dimensions of uncertainty avoidance, power distance, and individualism, these were used in moderation analyses. In general, power distance was inversely related to innovation, whereas individualism was directly related to it. Results indicated that collectivist and high power distance countries showed lower innovation, irrespective of levels of government stringency as a response to COVID-19. On the other hand, among individualistic and low power distance countries, lower innovation was associated with increased stringency (e.g., blanket restrictions on movement). Higher innovation was observed when such countries had a less severe government response. The dimension of uncertainty avoidance was not significantly associated with innovation at the country level. The implications of lockdowns on general innovation, its inputs, and outputs are discussed in the context of cultural dimensions and country-level policies.
Implementing an Action Over Inertia Group Program in Community Residential Rehabilitation Services: Group Participant and Facilitator Perspectives
Authors: Rees Erin F. , Ennals Priscilla , Fossey Ellie
Published: February 2021

Introduction:A time-use focused intervention, Action Over Inertia (AOI) designed to address restricted activity patterns and support recovery, was adapted for use in Australian community residential mental health services.

Method:Qualitative case study research explored the use of AOI groups across three Community Care Units from the perspectives of group participants with enduring mental illness and group facilitators. Fifteen interviews were conducted: five group participants were interviewed twice 4 weeks apart, and five group facilitators on completion of the group intervention. Interview data were analyzed thematically using constant comparative methods.

Findings:Two overarching themes, “Making Change” and “Facilitating Change” were identified. Efforts to make change in their lives were supported by participants recognising the value of personally meaningful activities for well-being and of activity experiences that fostered hope and recovery, whereas a sense of “stuckness,” time for activities and life events could disrupt “getting me going.” For the facilitators, facilitating change involved recognizing inertia as a challenge; getting people going; and looking at how AOI intervention works to impact inertia.

Conclusion:AOI in a group format supports participants to identify barriers to more active living; to appreciate how time-use and well-being interrelate; and to reframe and take steps to overcome inertia. Further research should evaluate AOI groups as a means of providing individualized support for activity re-engagement as part of recovery oriented mental health rehabilitation.
Deoxynivalenol Induces Inflammation in the Small Intestine of Weaned Rabbits by Activating Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling
Authors: Wang Pengwei , Huang Libo , Yang Wanying , Liu Quancheng , Li Fuchang , Wang Chunyang
Published: February 2021

Deoxynivalenol (DON) can activate related signaling pathways and induce gastrointestinal disorders. Based on the results of previous studies, this study tried to explore the relationship between DON-induced intestinal inflammation of weaned rabbits and the ERK-p38 signaling pathway. Forty-five weaned rabbits were divided into three treatments: control, LD and HD group. All rabbits were treated with diet containing a same nutrient content, but animals in the LD and HD groups were additionally administered DON via drinking water at 0.5 and 1.5 mg/kg b.w./d, respectively. The protocol consisted of a total feeding period of 31 days, including a pre-feeding period of 7 days. Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry were applied for analysis the expression of protein and mRNA of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38, double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR), and hematopoietic cell kinase (Hck) in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum of rabbits, as well as the distribution of positive reactants. The results proved that DON intake could enhance the levels of inflammatory factors in serum and damage the intestinal structure barrier of rabbits. Meanwhile, DON addition can stimulate the protein and mRNA expression for ERK, p38, PKR, and Hck in the intestine of rabbits, especially in the duodenum, as well as expand the distribution of positive reactants, in a dose-dependent manner.
Assessment of Guinea Grass Panicum maximum under Silvopastoral Systems in Combination with Two Management Systems in Orellana Province, Ecuador
Authors: González Marcillo Raúl Lorenzo , Castro Guamàn Walter Efraín , Guerrero Pincay Angela Edith , Vera Zambrano Plutarco Antonio , Ortiz Naveda Nelson René , Guamàn Rivera Santiago Alexander
Published: February 2021

Climate change has increased the interannual and seasonal variation in the average temperature and precipitation rate, which determine forage availability globally. Similar patterns of change have occurred in tropical regions, and Ecuador is no exception. This region includes other influencing factors, such as the conversion of tropical forests to extensive pastures. Therefore, this study was carried out to evaluate guinea grass (Panicum maximum) cultivated under silvopastoral systems with different management strategies in both of the seasons of the study region in Ecuador (rainy season and dry season). A randomized complete block design was used for the experiment, with three repetitions and three treatments. Agronomic measures, forage production, chemical composition, animal responses, and soil properties were evaluated. Data were analyzed with the Mixed model of SAS. Differences in all evaluated parameters were observed between treatments, and silvopastoral systems (SPSs) produced better results than conventional grass monoculture. Furthermore, there was a strong seasonal effect on forage production, chemical composition, and soil properties. Therefore, management of Panicum maximum with well-planned grazing can enhance animal responses and help to retain natural resources, lowering the pressure on forests.
Development and Characterization of Wheat-Agropyron cristatum Introgression Lines Induced by Gametocidal Genes and Wheat ph1b Mutant
Authors: Copete-Parada Alejandro , Palomino Carmen , Cabrera Adoración
Published: February 2021

The P genome of Agropyron cristatum Gaertn. contains many desirable genes that can be utilized as genetic resources to improve wheat. In this research, we used both the gametocidal chromosome 2Cc and the pairing homologous gene (Ph1b) mutant to induce structural aberrations and translocations between wheat and the 4P, 5P, and 6P genome chromosomes. By using the two approaches, a total of 19 wheat-A. cristatum translocations have been identified, in which 13 were induced by the Triticum aestivum cv. Chinese Spring (CS) ph1b mutant (CS ph1b) and six were induced by gametocidal chromosome 2Cc from Aegilops cylindrica Host. The wheat-4P, -5P and -6P A. cristatum translocations were characterized by in situ hybridization and by a set of conserved orthologous set (COS) molecular markers. The aberrations included centromeric translocations, terminal translocations, dicentric translocations, and deletions. The average induction frequency of chromosome structural aberrations was 10.9% using gametocidal 2Cc chromosome and 8.8% using ph1b mutant. The highest frequency obtained was for chromosome 4P using both approaches. All the wheat-A. cristatum translocation lines obtained were valuable for identifying A. cristatum chromosome 4P, 5P, and 6P related genes. In addition, these lines provided genetic resources and new germplasm accessions for the genetic improvement of wheat.
Integrating Plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) and Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) into New Zealand Grazing Dairy System: The Effect on Farm Productivity, Profitability, and Nitrogen Losses
Authors: Al-Marashdeh Omar , Cameron Keith , Hodge Simon , Gregorini Pablo , Edwards Grant
Published: February 2021

A two-year farm system study was conducted at Canterbury, New Zealand to evaluate the effects on farm productivity, profitability, and nitrogen (N) losses of integrating plantain (Plantago lanceolate L.) and Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) into a ryegrass and white clover (RGWC)-based dairy system. Three farm systems were compared: (1) a lower input RGWC-based system (LIRG) with stocking rate of 3.5 cow/ha, annual N fertiliser rate of 150 kg/ha, and imported feed level of <1.2 t DM/cow/year; (2) a lower input ryegrass + plantain-based system (LIRG + PL) with a stocking rate of 3.5 cow/ha, annual N fertiliser rate of 150 kg/ha, and imported feed level of <1.2 t DM/cow/year; and (3) a higher input RGWC-based system (HIRG) with a stocking rate of 5.0 cow/ha, annual N fertiliser rate of 300 kg/ha, and imported feed level of >1.2 t DM/cow/year. Cows in the LIRG + PL system grazed a diverse mix of Italian ryegrass, perennial ryegrass, white clover, and plantain (60% of farmlet area), and a mixed sward of plantain–white clover (40% of farmlet area). The average annual herbage harvested was similar between LIRG + PL and LIRG (11.7 t DM/ha), but greater in HIRG (12.7 t DM/ha) with the increased N fertiliser rate. During the calving to dry-off period, the average imported supplement feed per ha was higher in HIRG (8.0 t DM) compared with LIRG (3.2 t DM) and LIRG + PL (3.7 t DM). Average milk solid production (MS; fat + protein) was similar in LIRG + PL (1640 kg/ha) and LIRG (1622 kg/ha), but greater in HIRG (2130 kg/ha). Estimated profitability (NZD/ha) at milk price of NZD 6.5/kg MS was 10% greater for HIRG than LIRG + PL and LIRG, and similar (<1.5% numerical difference) between LIRG + PL and LIRG. The average estimated annual N leaching loss from the LIRG and LIRG + PL was 31% and 56% less than the loss from the HIRG. These large reductions in N leaching loss were achieved without a large decrease in profitability (i.e., LIRG and LIRG + PL compared to HIRG). In addition, the estimated reduction in N losses from the LIRG + PL system compared to LIRG suggests that an Italian ryegrass + plantain-based dairy system is a viable strategy to reduce the environmental footprint while maintaining farm profitability. However, the environmental benefits of plantain and Italian ryegrass estimated in this study require further confirmation through direct measurements at full farm level.