bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ceramide Synthase 6 Maximizes p53 Function to Prevent Progeny Formation from Polyploid Giant Cancer Cells
Authors: Lu Ping , White-Gilbertson Shai , Beeson Gyda , Beeson Craig , Ogretmen Besim , Norris James , Voelkel-Johnson Christina
Published: May 2021

Polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCC) constitute a transiently senescent subpopulation of cancer cells that arises in response to stress. PGCC are capable of generating progeny via a primitive, cleavage-like cell division that is dependent on the sphingolipid enzyme acid ceramidase (ASAH1). The goal of this study was to understand differences in sphingolipid metabolism between non-polyploid and polyploid cancer cells to gain an understanding of the ASAH1-dependence in the PGCC population. Steady-state and flux analysis of sphingolipids did not support our initial hypothesis that the ASAH1 product sphingosine is rapidly converted into the pro-survival lipid sphingosine-1-phosphate. Instead, our results suggest that ASAH1 activity is important for preventing the accumulation of long chain ceramides such as C16-ceramide. We therefore determined how modulation of C16-ceramide, either through CerS6 or p53, a known PGCC suppressor and enhancer of CerS6-derived C16-ceramide, affected PGCC progeny formation. Co-expression of the CerS6 and p53 abrogated the ability of PGCC to form offspring, suggesting that the two genes form a positive feedback loop. CerS6 enhanced the effect of p53 by significantly increasing protein half-life. Our results support the idea that sphingolipid metabolism is of functional importance in PGCC and that targeting this signaling pathway has potential for clinical intervention.
Vascular Calcification Progression Modulates the Risk Associated with Vascular Calcification Burden in Incident to Dialysis Patients
Authors: Bellasi Antonio , Di Lullo Luca , Russo Domenico , Ciarcia Roberto , Magnocavallo Michele , Lavalle Carlo , Ratti Carlo , Cozzolino Mario , Di Iorio Biagio Raffaele
Published: May 2021

Background: It is estimated that chronic kidney disease (CKD) accounts globally for 5 to 10 million deaths annually, mainly due to cardiovascular (CV) diseases. Traditional as well as non-traditional CV risk factors such as vascular calcification are believed to drive this disproportionate risk burden. We aimed to investigate the association of coronary artery calcification (CAC) progression with all-cause mortality in patients new to hemodialysis (HD). Methods: Post hoc analysis of the Independent study (NCT00710788). At study inception and after 12 months of follow-up, 414 patients underwent computed tomography imaging for quantification of CAC via the Agatston methods. The square root method was used to assess CAC progression (CACP), and survival analyses were used to test its association with mortality. Results: Over a median follow-up of 36 months, 106 patients died from all causes. Expired patients were older, more likely to be diabetic or to have experienced an atherosclerotic CV event, and exhibited a significantly greater CAC burden (p = 0.002). Survival analyses confirmed an independent association of CAC burden (hazard ratio: 1.29; 95% confidence interval: 1.17–1.44) and CACP (HR: 5.16; 2.61–10.21) with all-cause mortality. CACP mitigated the risk associated with CAC burden (p = 0.002), and adjustment for calcium-free phosphate binder attenuated the strength of the link between CACP and mortality. Conclusions: CAC burden and CACP predict mortality in incident to dialysis patients. However, CACP reduced the risk associated with baseline CAC, and calcium-free phosphate binders attenuated the association of CACP and outcomes, suggesting that CACP modulation may improve survival in this population. Future endeavors are needed to confirm whether drugs or kidney transplantation may attenuate CACP and improve survival in HD patients.
Mechanisms and Functions of Pexophagy in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Li Jing , Wang Wei
Published: May 2021

Peroxisomes play essential roles in diverse cellular metabolism functions, and their dynamic homeostasis is maintained through the coordination of peroxisome biogenesis and turnover. Pexophagy, selective autophagic degradation of peroxisomes, is a major mechanism for removing damaged and/or superfluous peroxisomes. Dysregulation of pexophagy impairs the physiological functions of peroxisomes and contributes to the progression of many human diseases. However, the mechanisms and functions of pexophagy in mammalian cells remain largely unknown compared to those in yeast. This review focuses on mammalian pexophagy and aims to advance the understanding of the roles of pexophagy in human health and diseases. Increasing evidence shows that ubiquitination can serve as a signal for pexophagy, and ubiquitin-binding receptors, substrates, and E3 ligases/deubiquitinases involved in pexophagy have been described. Alternatively, pexophagy can be achieved in a ubiquitin-independent manner. We discuss the mechanisms of these ubiquitin-dependent and ubiquitin-independent pexophagy pathways and summarize several inducible conditions currently used to study pexophagy. We highlight several roles of pexophagy in human health and how its dysregulation may contribute to diseases.
Pathophysiology and Treatment Options for Hepatic Fibrosis: Can It Be Completely Cured?
Authors: Khanam Arshi , Saleeb Paul G. , Kottilil Shyam
Published: May 2021

Hepatic fibrosis is a dynamic process that occurs as a wound healing response against liver injury. During fibrosis, crosstalk between parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells, activation of different immune cells and signaling pathways, as well as a release of several inflammatory mediators take place, resulting in inflammation. Excessive inflammation drives hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, which then encounters various morphological and functional changes before transforming into proliferative and extracellular matrix (ECM)-producing myofibroblasts. Finally, enormous ECM accumulation interferes with hepatic function and leads to liver failure. To overcome this condition, several therapeutic approaches have been developed to inhibit inflammatory responses, HSC proliferation and activation. Preclinical studies also suggest several targets for the development of anti-fibrotic therapies; however, very few advanced to clinical trials. The pathophysiology of hepatic fibrosis is extremely complex and requires comprehensive understanding to identify effective therapeutic targets; therefore, in this review, we focus on the various cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with the pathophysiology of hepatic fibrosis and discuss potential strategies to control or reverse the fibrosis.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Receptor-Binding Domain Total Antibodies Response in Seropositive and Seronegative Healthcare Workers Undergoing COVID-19 mRNA BNT162b2 Vaccination
Authors: Salvagno Gian Luca , Henry Brandon M. , di Piazza Giovanni , Pighi Laura , De Nitto Simone , Bragantini Damiano , Gianfilippi Gian Luca , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: May 2021

Background: This study monitored total anti-SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) RBD (receptor-binding domain) antibodies levels in a large population of healthcare workers undergoing mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. Methods. The study population consisted of employees of Pederzoli Hospital of Peschiera del Garda (Verona, Italy), who underwent voluntary vaccination with two doses of COVID-19 mRNA BNT162b2 (Comirnaty; Pfizer Inc). Venous blood was drawn immediately before the first vaccine dose, as well as 21 days (immediately before second vaccine dose) and 50 days afterwards. Humoral response was assessed with Roche Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S total antibodies, on Roche Cobas 6000 (Roche Diagnostics). Results: The final study population consisted of 925 subjects (mean age, 44 ± 13 years; 457 women), 206 (22.3%) anti-SARS-CoV-2 baseline seropositive. The increase of total anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibodies levels 21 days after the first vaccine dose was ~3 orders of magnitude higher in seropositive than in seronegative individuals (11782 vs. 42 U/mL; p < 0.001). Total anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibodies levels further increased by over 30-fold after the second vaccine dose in baseline seronegative subjects, while such increase was only ~1.3-fold in baseline seropositive subjects. In multivariate analysis, total anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibodies level was inversely associated with age after both vaccine doses and male sex after the second vaccine dose in baseline seronegative subjects, while baseline antibodies value significantly predicted immune response after both vaccine doses in baseline seropositive recipients. Conclusion: Significant difference exists in post-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine immune response in baseline seronegative and seropositive subjects, which seems dependent on age and sex in seronegative subjects, as well as on baseline anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies level in seropositive patients.
Instructional Planning Modifications to Meet Social Distancing Requirements: Secondary and Post-Secondary Options
Authors: Kilty Trina Johnson , Burrows Andrea C. , Christoffersen Dane , Kilty Kevin Thomas , Welsh Kate Muir , McBride Shawna , Bergmaier Philip , Bitzas Christian , Rainey Cierra
Published: May 2021

Secondary and post-secondary science and engineering educators share common class arrangements with both a laboratory and lecture component, coordinating both components so they build upon each other to create meaningful learning experiences. The COVID-19 pandemic forced educators to convert lectures and exams to online delivery. Doing so came with trade-off decisions about sacrificing laboratory experience goals of hands-on practice, problem-solving, and learning concepts at a deeper, tactile level. Due to rapidly changing conditions, educators faced course redesign to accommodate social distancing and virtual learning requirements. In this study, a team of undergraduate college students including one secondary science preservice teacher planned a set of lessons for STEM outreach to a K–12 audience. The team faced challenges in planning meaningful learning experiences in the face of COVID-19 uncertainty. Options for secondary and post-secondary educators to consider are provided in this article.
Using Padlet to Enable Online Collaborative Mediation and Scaffolding in a Statistics Course
Authors: Sætra Henrik Skaug
Published: May 2021

Students often perceive statistics as a difficult subject, and it is frequently named as one of the primary causes of high dropout rates in economics educations in Norway. In order to support the learning process in statistics courses, and in order to make the courses more flexible, the author experimented with the use of Padlet in two different student groups taking an introductory course in statistics for economists. The purpose was to overcome the difficulty of engendering social engagement and activity and fostering effective mediation, scaffolding and collaborative learning in large student groups scheduled for traditional lectures in large auditoriums. The author’s experiences and the students’ evaluations of the model is presented here, along with the theoretical justification of the use of Padlet and the context in which it was tested. The results show that computer-supported collaborative learning can be an effective supplement or alternative to traditional study groups for those that either prefer this or cannot take part in regular study groups. The students used Padlet actively, and a majority of the students reported that it was a significant or highly significant factor in their learning process.
A Systematic Mapping Study on Cyber Security Indicator Data
Authors: Meland Per , Tokas Shukun , Erdogan Gencer , Bernsmed Karin , Omerovic Aida
Published: May 2021

A security indicator is a sign that shows us what something is like or how a situation is changing and can aid us in making informed estimations on cyber risks. There are many different breeds of security indicators, but, unfortunately, they are not always easy to apply due to a lack of available or credible sources of data. This paper undertakes a systematic mapping study on the academic literature related to cyber security indicator data. We identified 117 primary studies from the past five years as relevant to answer our research questions. They were classified according to a set of categories related to research type, domain, data openness, usage, source, type and content. Our results show a linear growth of publications per year, where most indicators are based on free or internal technical data that are domain independent. While these indicators can give valuable information about the contemporary cyber risk, the increasing usage of unconventional data sources and threat intelligence feeds of more strategic and tactical nature represent a more forward-looking trend. In addition, there is a need to take methods and techniques developed by the research community from the conceptual plane and make them practical enough for real-world application.
Assessing Landsat Images Availability and Its Effects on Phenological Metrics
Authors: Mas Jean-François , Soares de Araújo Francisca
Published: May 2021

Landsat imagery offers the most extended continuous land surface observation at 30 m spatial resolution and is widely used in land change studies. On the other hand, the recent developments on big data, such as cloud computing, give new opportunities for carrying out satellite-based continuous land cover monitoring including land use/cover change and more subtle changes as forest degradation, agriculture intensification and vegetation phenological patterns alterations. However, in the range 0–10∘ south latitude, especially in the summer and autumn, there is a high rainfall and high clouds presence. We hypothesise that it will be challenging to characterise vegetation phenology in regions where the number of valid (cloud-free) remotely-sensed observation is low or when the observations are unevenly distributed over the year. This paper aims to evaluate whether there is sufficient availability of Landsat 7 and 8 images over Brazil to support the analysis of phenodynamics of vegetation. We used Google Earth Engine to assess Landsat data availability during the last decades over the Brazilian territory. The valid observations (excluding clouds and shadow areas) from Landsat 4/5/7/8 during the period 1984–2017 were determined at pixel level. The results show a lower intensity of Landsat observations in the northern and northeastern parts of Brazil compared to the southern region, mainly due to clouds’ presence. Taking advantage of the overlapping areas between satellite paths where the number of observations is larger, we modelled the loss of information caused by a lower number of valid (cloud free) observations. We showed that, in the deciduous woody formations of the Caatinga dominium, the scarcity of valid observations has an adverse effect on indices’ performance aimed at describing vegetation phenology. However, the combination of Landsat data with satellite constellation such as Sentinel will likely permit to overcome many of these limitations.
CHEESE and WHEY: The Outcome of Milk Curdling
Authors: Moatsou Golfo , Moschopoulou Ekaterini
Published: May 2021

The present Special Issue is dedicated to both products of the cheesemaking process, that is cheese and whey [...]
Influencing Factors of Depression among Adolescent Asians in North America: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zou Ping , Siu Annisa , Wang Xiyi , Shao Jing , Hallowell Sunny G. , Yang Lihua Lydia , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2021

Background: Asian American adolescents experience rates of depression comparable to or greater than those of other ethnic minorities. The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize psychosocial factors related to depressive symptoms of Asian American adolescents between the ages of 10 to 19. Methods: Various electronic databases were systematically searched to identify research articles published from 2000 to 2021, and the psychosocial factors influencing depression among Asian adolescents in North America were examined. Results: A total of 81 studies were included in this systematic review. Consistent findings on relationships between depressive symptoms and influencing factors included (a) acculturative stress, (b) religious or spiritual significance for females, (c) parent–child cohesion, (d) harsh parenting style, (e) responsive parenting style, (f) racial or ethnic discrimination, (g) being bullied, (h) positive mentor presence, and (i) exposure to community violence. Collectively, the majority of included studies suggest that depressive symptoms were more likely found among Asian American adolescents who (a) are older, (b) are female, (c) have immigrant status, (d) exhibit coping behaviours, (e) face academic challenges, (f) face a poor socioeconomic situation, (g) perceive parent–child conflict, (h) perceive maternal disconnectedness, and (i) perceive negative peer relations. A number of conflictive findings also existed. Discussion/Conclusions: This systematic review provides a summary of the various psychosocial factors on individual, familial, and social levels, which influenced the depressive symptoms of Asian American adolescents. Such findings offer a starting point to examine what factors should be necessarily included in related depression-preventive intervention design and evaluation. Culturally sensitive care, strengthened family–school–community collaboration, and targeted research efforts are needed to meet the needs of Asian adolescents experiencing a range of depressive symptoms.
Superior Line from Anther Culture of Dendrocalamus latiflorus Selected after Field Trial
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Yujun , Qiao Guirong , Fan Huijin , Jin Kangming , Huang Biyun , Qiu Wenmin , Zou Yueguo , Xie Jinzhong , Zhuo Renying
Published: May 2021

The selection of superior lines is extremely important to improve the utilization rate and economic value of bamboo. In this research, 120 anther-regenerated bamboo lines were planted in the field, and the survival rate reached 84.2% one year after planting. During five years of observations, we continuously measured and recorded the number of shoots and the size of the new bamboo of these regenerated lines. The results showed that there were considerable differences in culm size and growth rate among the different lines. After comprehensive evaluation, we found that one of the lines (P82) had obvious advantages in culm size and growth rate compared with the others. The chromosome ploidy of line P82 and the other three lines (P38, P84, and P34) was detected. It was found that P82 was hexaploid, while the other three lines were dodecaploid. Nutritional components of the P82 shoots were further detected. The results showed that the content of soluble sugar was 1.4%, the content of free amino acid was 3.5 g·kg−1 (FW, fresh weight), and the content of protein was 14.8 g·kg−1 (FW), and there were no significant differences compared with the local wild mature bamboo. Anatomical analysis showed that the vascular bundle size of the line P82 (hexaploid) was significantly larger than that of line P38 (dodecaploid), and the length of parenchyma cells in the culm wall of line P82 was similar to that of line P38, however, the cell width of line P82 was significantly wider than that of line P38. In this study, the breeding of superior lines of regenerated bamboo plants from an anther culture was realized, which provided an example for a new method for selecting superior lines from an anther culture, and also enriched the resources of superior lines of D. latiflorus.
Rootstock–Scion Hydraulic Balance Influenced Scion Vigor and Yield Efficiency of Malus domestica cv. Honeycrisp on Eight Rootstocks
Authors: Xu Hao , Ediger Danielle , Singh Amritpal , Pagliocchini Christopher
Published: May 2021

Rootstocks with internal hydraulic limitations can effectively restrict scion growth, influence crop load, and improve yield efficiency in apple production. The characteristics of xylem vessels in rootstock and scion play essential roles in determining the hydraulic properties of the grafted tree; however, much remains unknown for commonly available rootstocks. In this study, we extracted secondary xylem using an increment borer from living Honeycrisp scion (Malus domestica cv. ‘Honeycrisp’), and two Malling rootstocks, one Budagovsky rootstock, and five Geneva rootstocks. The size and density of xylem vessels in rootstocks and scions were analyzed in relation to trunk cross-section area (TCSA), tree–water relations, and fruit dry matter of 2019, as well as with cumulative yield efficiency during 2014–2019. Honeycrisp scion exceeded most of the rootstocks in cross-section size and density of vessel elements. Scion vigor and cumulative yield were positively correlated with TCSA and total vessel cross-section area (VCSA) of the rootstock, with G.202 being the highest, and B.9 being the lowest with small xylem vessels in high density. In the rootstocks with the highest cumulative yield efficiency, the rootstock/scion ratio in VCSA was equal to or slightly higher than 1. Lower scion vessel density in G.214 was associated with lower fruit dry matter weight, more restricted water relations, and worsened leaf chlorosis. G.935 with larger rootstock vessels led to both high yield and high yield efficiency. This suggested that higher scion vessel density and larger rootstock vessel size can be advantageous characteristics for early-stage evaluation.
Risk of Mortality and Readmission among Patients with Pelvic Fracture and Urinary Tract Infection: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Ying-Cheng , Chuang Cheng-Hsun , Hsieh Ming-Hong , Yeh Han-Wei , Yang Shun-Fa , Lin Chiao-Wen , Yeh Ying-Tung , Huang Jing-Yang , Liao Pei-Lun , Chan Chi-Ho , Yeh Chao-Bin
Published: May 2021

Patients with pelvic fractures could encounter various complications during or after treatments. This cohort study investigated the risk of mortality and readmissions in patients with pelvic fractures, with or without urinary tract infections (UTIs), within 30 days following the pelvic fractures. This retrospective cohort study examined claim records from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 (LHID2000). We selected patients hospitalized with pelvic fractures between 1997 and 2013 for study. Patients who had index data before 2000 or after 2010 (n = 963), who died before the index date (n = 64), who were aged <18 years (n = 94), or who had a pelvic injury (n = 31) were excluded. In total, the study cohort comprised 1623 adult patients; 115 had UTIs, and 1508 patients without UTIs were used as a comparison cohort. Multivariate analysis with a multiple Cox regression model and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis were performed to analyze the data. Our results showed that the 1-year mortality rate (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 2.32; 95% CI: 1.25–4.29) and readmission rate (adjusted HR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.26–3.34) of the UTI group were significantly higher than those of the non-UTI group. Moreover, the Kaplan–Meier curve for the 1-year follow-up indicated that the UTI group had a higher cumulative risk of both mortality and hospital readmission compared with the non-UTI group. In conclusion, among patients with pelvic fracture, patients with UTI were associated with increased risks of mortality and readmission. Physicians must pay more attention to such patients to prevent UTIs among patients with pelvic fractures during hospitalization and conduct a follow-up after discharge within at least 1 year.
Diagnostic Accuracy of 10/66 Dementia Protocol in Fijian-Indian Elders Living in New Zealand
Authors: Martinez-Ruiz Adrian , Krishnamurthi Rita , Dahiya Ekta Singh , Rai-Bala Reshmi , Naicker Sanjalin , Yates Susan , Rivera Rodriguez Claudia , Cheung Gary , Dudley Makarena , Kerse Ngaire , Cullum Sarah
Published: May 2021

The 10/66 dementia protocol was developed as a language and culture-fair instrument to estimate the prevalence of dementia in non-English speaking communities. The aim of this study was to validate the 10/66 dementia protocol in elders of Indian ethnicity born in the Fiji Islands (Fijian-Indian) living in New Zealand. To our knowledge, this is the first time a dementia diagnostic tool has been evaluated in the Fijian-Indian population in New Zealand. We translated and adapted the 10/66 dementia protocol for use in in Fijian-Indian people. Individuals (age ≥ 65) who self-identified as Fijian-Indian and had either been assessed for dementia at a local memory service (13 cases, eight controls) or had participated in a concurrent dementia prevalence feasibility study (eight controls) participated. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and Youden’s index were obtained by comparing the 10/66 diagnosis and its sub-components against the clinical diagnosis (reference standard). The 10/66 diagnosis had a sensitivity of 92.3% (95% CI 70.3–99.5), specificity of 93.8% (95% CI 75.3–99.6), positive predictive value of 92.3% (95% CI 70.3–99.5), and negative predictive value of 93.8% (95% CI 75.3–99.6). The study results show that the Fijian-Indian 10/66 dementia protocol has adequate discriminatory abilities to diagnose dementia in our sample. This instrument would be suitable for future dementia population-based studies in the Fijian-Indian population living in Aotearoa/New Zealand or the Fiji-Islands.
Persistence as a Robust Indicator of Medication Adherence-Related Quality and Performance
Authors: Menditto Enrica , Cahir Caitriona , Malo Sara , Aguilar-Palacio Isabel , Almada Marta , Costa Elisio , Giardini Anna , Gil Peinado María , Massot Mesquida Mireia , Mucherino Sara , Orlando Valentina , Parra-Calderón Carlos Luis , Pepiol Salom Enrique , Kardas Przemyslaw , Vrijens Bernard
Published: May 2021

Medication adherence is a priority for health systems worldwide and is widely recognised as a key component of quality of care for disease management. Adherence-related indicators were rarely explicitly included in national health policy agendas. One barrier is the lack of standardised adherence terminology and of routine measures of adherence in clinical practice. This paper discusses the possibility of developing adherence-related performance indicators highlighting the value of measuring persistence as a robust indicator of quality of care. To standardise adherence and persistence-related terminology allowing for benchmarking of adherence strategies, the European Ascertaining Barriers for Compliance (ABC) project proposed a Taxonomy of Adherence in 2012 consisting of three components: initiation, implementation, discontinuation. Persistence, which immediately precedes discontinuation, is a key element of taxonomy, which could capture adherence chronology allowing the examination of patterns of medication-taking behaviour. Advances in eHealth and Information Communication Technology (ICT) could play a major role in providing necessary structures to develop persistence indicators. We propose measuring persistence as an informative and pragmatic measure of medication-taking behaviour. Our view is to develop quality and performance indicators of persistence, which requires investing in ICT solutions enabling healthcare providers to review complete information on patients’ medication-taking patterns, as well as clinical and health outcomes.
An Educational Intervention for Improving the Snacks and Beverages Brought to Youth Sports in the USA
Authors: Spruance Lori Andersen , Bennion Natalie , Ghanadan Gabriel , Maddock Jay E.
Published: May 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to test a small-scale intervention and its ability to decrease total sugar intake and number of calories offered at youth sports games. Methods: This study was a pre/post-test quasi-experimental design. A flier was developed and distributed to parents. The flier aimed to decrease the sugar-sweetened beverages and increase the nutritional quality of food brought to games. Baseline data were collected in 2018 (n = 61). The flier was distributed prior to the start of the league, once during the league, and posted online in 2019. Postintervention data were collected in the intervention group (n = 122) and a comparison group (n = 74). Nutritional information was collected through direct observation. Results: The average amount of total sugar provided per game per child was 25.5 g at baseline when snacks/beverages were provided at games. After the intervention, the average amount of total sugar provided significantly decreased (16.7 g/game/child, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The intervention reduced total sugar offered and the number of sugar-sweetened beverages brought to games. It was low-cost and could be easily implemented by public health practitioners and/or parks and recreation administrators. Further, considerations could be made to implement policies relative to snacks and beverages at youth sports games.
Evaluation of Formal and Informal Spatial Coastal Area Planning Process in Baltic Sea Region
Authors: Pudzis Edgars , Geipele Sanda , Auzins Armands , Lazdins Andrejs , Butnicka Jevgenija , Krumina Krista , Ciuksa Indra , Kalinka Maris , Krutova Una , Grimitliht Mark , Prii-Pärn Marii , Björklund Charlotta , Vävare Susanne , Hagström Johanna , Granqvist Ingela , Hallor Malin Josefina
Published: May 2021

Many shared views of both scholars and practitioners reflect spatial planning as a place-creating process that must be understood from a multi-level perspective. Formal and informal planning modes have variations in planning practices in different countries. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the interaction of formal and informal spatial planning in the frame of the spatial planning system in the Baltic Sea region. We were searching to highlight the involvement possibilities of territorial communities in the spatial planning process around the Baltic Sea region, focusing on coastal areas and their specific features in Latvia, Estonia, the Åland Islands of Finland, and Sweden. Involved experts expressed views based on a pre-developed model to identify how institutionalized formal spatial planning relates with informal interventions. This allowed the development and proposal of a model for coastal area spatial planning and implementation. We concluded that in the spatial planning approach, the governance works differently in different countries, and coastal area spatial planning differs from regular spatial planning. The information base is sufficient to initiate spatial planning at the municipal level, but municipalities should be more active, involving territorial communities in the planning, implementation, and control of municipal spatial planning, as this ensures a greater interest in the use of planning outcome.
A Risk and Decision Analysis Framework to Evaluate Future PM2.5 Risk: A Case Study in Los Angeles-Long Beach Metro Area
Authors: He Bowen , Guan Qun
Published: May 2021

This study examines the L.A.-Long Beach Metro area concerning the future risk of the PM2.5 concentration increase. Population expansion, economic growth, and temperature increase are incorporated to estimate the probability of the magnitude of PM2.5 emission increase. Three possible sectors for the reduction of PM2.5 emissions are considered: ocean-going vessels, refineries, and electricity-generating units. The decision of how best to allocate emissions-reduction efforts among these three sectors is analyzed using a quantitative and qualitative decision-analysis framework. For quantitative analysis, Expected Monetary Value (EMV) and Expected Utility (EU) methods are used to select the optimal sector to invest in. Based on the EMV calculation, the refineries sector is 3.5 times and 6.4 times more worthy of investment compared to the electricity-generating units and the ocean-going vessels sector, respectively. For the qualitative analysis, three criteria (investment efficiency, implementation difficulty, time to become effective) are considered in the decision-making process and sensitivity analysis is conducted to inform the ocean-going vessel sector is the optimal alternative for all possible scenarios. The refineries sector is more preferred than the electricity-generating units sector when the implementation difficulty’s weight is smaller than 50%. This study provides a valuable risk and decision analysis framework for analyzing the air pollution problem associated with the future PM2.5 concentration increase caused by three risk factors: population growth, economic growth, and climate change.
Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Lay Beliefs about the Cause and Course of Mental Illness?
Authors: O’Connor Cliodhna
Published: May 2021

COVID-19 and its countermeasures have negatively impacted the mental health of populations worldwide. The current paper considers whether the rising incidence of psychiatric symptoms during the pandemic may affect lay beliefs about the cause and course of mental illness. Laypeople’s causal attributions and expectations regarding the trajectory of mental illness have important implications for societal stigma and therapeutic orientations. Two online experimental studies investigated whether reading about fictional cases of mental illness that were explicitly situated during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared with reading about the same cases without any pandemic-related contextualisation, affected attributions and expectations about Generalised Anxiety Disorder (Study 1) and Major Depressive Disorder (Study 2). Study 1 (n = 137) results showed that highlighting the onset of anxiety symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic weakened attributions to biological causes and reduced the anticipated duration of symptoms. However, Study 2 (n = 129) revealed no effects of COVID-19 contextualisation on beliefs about the cause or course of depression. The research provides preliminary evidence that the increased incidence of mental illness during the pandemic may reshape public beliefs about certain mental illnesses. Given the importance of public understandings for the lived experience of mentally unwell persons in society, further evidence of the range and extent of the pandemic’s effects on lay beliefs is important to inform clinical, public health and stigma-reduction initiatives.
Investigating Patients’ Preferences to Inform Drug Development Decisions: Novel Insights from a Discrete Choice Experiment in Migraine
Authors: Torbica Aleksandra , Rognoni Carla , Tarricone Rosanna
Published: May 2021

There is limited evidence on the scope and overall benefit of patient-centred drug development decisions. The present study assessed patients’ preferences for the characteristics of an ideal migraine treatment through a discrete choice experiment in order to inform decision-making and drug development processes. We investigated the preferences according to five treatment attributes identified from a systematic literature review and two focus group elicitations. The heterogeneity of preferences was also investigated. Overall, the respondents considered the presence of adverse events, duration of treatment effect, reduction of symptom intensity, speed of effect and cost born by the patient as the most relevant treatment features. As expected, the patients preferred treatments with lower levels of adverse events and costs and treatments with greater speed, duration of treatment effect and effectiveness in reducing symptom intensity. There was significant preference heterogeneity only for the presence of adverse events. Compared to men, women had significantly higher preferences for quicker treatment effect and limited adverse events and reported higher preferences for costly treatments. The results of our survey help address research and development strategies in the pharmaceutical industry and public policy regarding treatments that are clinically effective and responsive to the needs expressed by patients.
Spatial and Temporal Characteristics of Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Their Influencing Factors in Urumqi, China
Authors: Gao Yibo , Wang Hongwei , Yi Suyan , Wang Deping , Ma Chen , Tan Bo , Wei Yiming
Published: May 2021

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) remains a serious health threat to young children. Urumqi is one of the most severely affected cities in northwestern China. This study aims to identify the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of HFMD, and explore the relationships between driving factors and HFMD in Urumqi, Xinjiang. Methods: HFMD surveillance data from 2014 to 2018 were obtained from the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The center of gravity and geographical detector model were used to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of HFMD and identify the association between these characteristics and socioeconomic and meteorological factors. Results: A total of 10,725 HFMD cases were reported in Urumqi during the study period. Spatially, the morbidity number of HFMD differed regionally and the density was higher in urban districts than in rural districts. Overall, the development of HFMD in Urumqi expanded toward the southeast. Temporally, we observed that the risk of HFMD peaked from June to July. Furthermore, socioeconomic and meteorological factors, including population density, road density, GDP, temperature and precipitation were significantly associated with the occurrence of HFMD. Conclusions: HFMD cases occurred in spatiotemporal clusters. Our findings showed strong associations between HFMD and socioeconomic and meteorological factors. We comprehensively considered the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and influencing factors of HFMD, and proposed some intervention strategies that may assist in predicting the morbidity number of HFMD.
Distribution Levels of Particulate Matter Fractions (<2.5 µm, 2.5–10 µm and >10 µm) at Seven Primary Schools in a European Ceramic Cluster
Authors: Pallarés Susana , Gómez Eva Trinidad , Martínez-Poveda África , Jordán Manuel Miguel
Published: May 2021

This study addresses the concentration of particulate matter and their size using a statistical analysis of data obtained inside seven schools located in the towns of Castellón (S1, S2, and S3), Alcora (S4, S5, and S6) and Lucena (S7) in northeast Spain. Samples were taken for five to eight hours, depending on school hours, to obtain a monthly sample for each school. The main goal of this study is to assess the differences depending on the type of location and the sampling point to be able to design corrective measures that improve the habitability and safety of the teaching spaces analyzed. The lowest concentrations of fine particulate matter, less than 2.5 µm, were registered at the rural location. The values of these particles found in industrial and urban locations were not substantially different. In the case of particulate matter between 2.5 and 10 µm, significant differences were observed between the three types of locations. The lowest concentrations of particles larger than 10 µm were registered at the rural location, and the highest concentrations were found at the industrial locations. Among the urban stations, the particle concentration of this fraction in station S2 was significantly higher than that in stations S1 and S3, which had similar concentrations. These values are also similar to those registered at school S6, which is at an industrial location. The resuspension of particles from both indoor sources as well as those transported from the outside is an important factor in the concentrations of particles inside classrooms.
Depressive Symptomatology and Practice of Safety Measures among Undergraduate Students during COVID-19: Impact of Gender
Authors: Aldhmadi Badr K. , Kumar Rakesh , Itumalla Ramaiah , Perera Bilesha
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the personal and academic lives of undergraduates in Saudi Arabia. Although studies have suggested that COVID-19 increased the prevalence of psychological health problems among undergraduates, the associations between the risk of depression and safety practices and the influence of gender on these associations have not been studied in detail. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among preparatory-year undergraduates in a large public university in Saudi Arabia during the outbreak. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CES-D) Scale, and the practice of eight precautionary behaviors was also assessed. Data analysis was performed using the chi-square test, multiple linear regression and Spearman’s correlation coefficient. In total, 3044 undergraduates were surveyed. The mean age was 18.6 years (SD = 0.84), and 61.9% (n = 1883) of the participants were female. Overall, 47.7% of the participants reported having elevated depressive symptoms. Overall mean values of CES-D scores were higher among female undergraduates than that of male undergraduates (18.08 versus 15.56, p < 0.01). There were inverse and weak but significant relationships between the CES-D score and frequent cleaning of hands (male: r = −0.116, p < 0.01; female: r = −0.098, p < 0.01), wearing a mask when going out (male: r = −0.172, p < 0.01; female: r = −0.135, p < 0.01), keeping social distance (male: r = −0.117, p < 0.01; female: r = −0.147, p < 0.01), and covering the nose when sneezing (male: r = −0.202, p < 0.01; female: r = −0.115, p < 0.01). Regression analysis indicated that adherence to precautionary measures was a strong predictor of reduction of depressive symptoms in the target population. Male gender was also found to be an independent predictor of reduction of depressive symptoms. Depressive symptoms were highly prevalent in this target group, and female undergraduates seemed to be more vulnerable to developing such symptoms. Results also indicated that female undergraduates were more likely to implement the protective measures for COVID-19. The promotion of precautionary measures seems to be effective in reducing distress in this target population, but further research is needed to confirm our assertions.
Temporal and Spatial Evolution and Influencing Factors of Public Sentiment in Natural Disasters—A Case Study of Typhoon Haiyan
Authors: Zhang Ting , Cheng Changxiu
Published: May 2021

The public’s attitudes, emotions, and opinions reflect the state of society to a certain extent. Understanding the state and trends of public sentiment and effectively guiding the direction of sentiment are essential for maintaining social stability during disasters. Social media data have become the most effective resource for studying public sentiment. The TextBlob tool is used to calculate the sentiment value of tweets, and this research analyzed the public’s sentiment state during Typhoon Haiyan, used the biterm topic model (BTM) to classify topics, explored the changing process of public discussion topics at different stages during the disaster, and analyzed the differences in people’s discussion content under different sentiments. We also analyzed the spatial pattern of sentiment and quantitatively explored the influencing factors of the sentiment spatial differences. The results showed that the overall public sentiment during Typhoon Haiyan tended to be positive, that compared with positive tweets, negative tweets contained more serious disaster information and more urgent demand information, and that the number of tweets, population, and the proportion of the young and middle-aged populations were the dominant factors in the sentiment spatial differences.
Interaction between the Renin–Angiotensin System and Enteric Neurotransmission Contributes to Colonic Dysmotility in the TNBS-Induced Model of Colitis
Authors: Ferreira-Duarte Mariana , Rodrigues-Pinto Tiago , Sousa Teresa , Faria Miguel A. , Rocha Maria Sofia , Menezes-Pinto Daniela , Esteves-Monteiro Marisa , Magro Fernando , Dias-Pereira Patrícia , Duarte-Araújo Margarida , Morato Manuela
Published: May 2021

Angiotensin II (Ang II) regulates colon contraction, acting not only directly on smooth muscle but also indirectly, interfering with myenteric neuromodulation mediated by the activation of AT1 /AT2 receptors. In this article, we aimed to explore which mediators and cells were involved in Ang II-mediated colonic contraction in the TNBS-induced rat model of colitis. The contractile responses to Ang II were evaluated in distinct regions of the colon of control animals or animals with colitis in the absence and presence of different antagonists/inhibitors. Endogenous levels of Ang II in the colon were assessed by ELISA and the number of AT1/AT2 receptors by qPCR. Ang II caused AT1 receptor-mediated colonic contraction that was markedly decreased along the colons of TNBS-induced rats, consistent with reduced AT1 mRNA expression. However, the effect mediated by Ang II is much more intricate, involving (in addition to smooth muscle cells and nerve terminals) ICC and EGC, which communicate by releasing ACh and NO in a complex mechanism that changes colitis, unveiling new therapeutic targets.
B Cells and Microbiota in Autoimmunity
Authors: Botía-Sánchez María , Alarcón-Riquelme Marta E. , Galicia Georgina
Published: May 2021

Trillions of microorganisms inhabit the mucosal membranes maintaining a symbiotic relationship with the host’s immune system. B cells are key players in this relationship because activated and differentiated B cells produce secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), which binds commensals to preserve a healthy microbial ecosystem. Mounting evidence shows that changes in the function and composition of the gut microbiota are associated with several autoimmune diseases suggesting that an imbalanced or dysbiotic microbiota contributes to autoimmune inflammation. Bacteria within the gut mucosa may modulate autoimmune inflammation through different mechanisms from commensals ability to induce B-cell clones that cross-react with host antigens or through regulation of B-cell subsets’ capacity to produce cytokines. Commensal signals in the gut instigate the differentiation of IL-10 producing B cells and IL-10 producing IgA+ plasma cells that recirculate and exert regulatory functions. While the origin of the dysbiosis in autoimmunity is unclear, compelling evidence shows that specific species have a remarkable influence in shaping the inflammatory immune response. Further insight is necessary to dissect the complex interaction between microorganisms, genes, and the immune system. In this review, we will discuss the bidirectional interaction between commensals and B-cell responses in the context of autoimmune inflammation.
Molecular Basis of Multiple Mitochondrial Dysfunctions Syndrome 2 Caused by CYS59TYR BOLA3 Mutation
Authors: Saudino Giovanni , Suraci Dafne , Nasta Veronica , Ciofi-Baffoni Simone , Banci Lucia
Published: May 2021

Multiple mitochondrial dysfunctions syndrome (MMDS) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder associated with mutations in genes with a vital role in the biogenesis of mitochondrial [4Fe–4S] proteins. Mutations in one of these genes encoding for BOLA3 protein lead to MMDS type 2 (MMDS2). Recently, a novel phenotype for MMDS2 with complete clinical recovery was observed in a patient containing a novel variant (c.176G > A, p.Cys59Tyr) in compound heterozygosity. In this work, we aimed to rationalize this unique phenotype observed in MMDS2. To do so, we first investigated the structural impact of the Cys59Tyr mutation on BOLA3 by NMR, and then we analyzed how the mutation affects both the formation of a hetero-complex between BOLA3 and its protein partner GLRX5 and the iron–sulfur cluster-binding properties of the hetero-complex by various spectroscopic techniques and by experimentally driven molecular docking. We show that (1) the mutation structurally perturbed the iron–sulfur cluster-binding region of BOLA3, but without abolishing [2Fe–2S]2+ cluster-binding on the hetero-complex; (2) tyrosine 59 did not replace cysteine 59 as iron–sulfur cluster ligand; and (3) the mutation promoted the formation of an aberrant apo C59Y BOLA3–GLRX5 complex. All these aspects allowed us to rationalize the unique phenotype observed in MMDS2 caused by Cys59Tyr mutation.