bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional and Functional Advantages of the Use of Fermented Black Chickpea Flour for Semolina-Pasta Fortification
Authors: De Pasquale Ilaria , Verni Michela , Verardo Vito , Gómez-Caravaca Ana María , Rizzello Carlo Giuseppe
Published: January 2021

Pasta represents a dominant portion of the diet worldwide and its functionalization with high nutritional value ingredients, such as legumes, is the most ideal solution to shape consumers behavior towards healthier food choices. Aiming at improving the nutritional quality of semolina pasta, semi-liquid dough of a Mediterranean black chickpea flour, fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum T0A10, was used at a substitution level of 15% to manufacture fortified pasta. Fermentation with the selected starter enabled the release of 20% of bound phenolic compounds, and the conversion of free compounds into more active forms (dihydrocaffeic and phloretic acid) in the dough. Fermented dough also had higher resistant starch (up to 60% compared to the control) and total free amino acids (almost 3 g/kg) contents, whereas antinutritional factors (raffinose, condensed tannins, trypsin inhibitors and saponins) significantly decreased. The impact of black chickpea addition on pasta nutritional, technological and sensory features, was also assessed. Compared to traditional (semolina) pasta, fortified pasta had lower starch hydrolysis rate (ca. 18%) and higher in vitro protein digestibility (up to 38%). Moreover, fortified cooked pasta, showing scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS radicals and intense inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation, was appreciated for its peculiar organoleptic profile. Therefore, fermentation technology appears to be a promising tool to enhance the quality of pasta and promote the use of local chickpea cultivars while preventing their genetic erosion.
Potentialities of Rapid Analytical Strategies for the Identification of the Botanical Species of Several “Specialty” or “Gourmet” Oils
Authors: Turrini Federica , Zunin Paola , Boggia Raffaella
Published: January 2021

A comprehensive data collection of authentic “specialty” or “gourmet” oils, namely cold-pressed industrial virgin oils, was performed. Eight different botanical species, i.e., Almond, Apricot, Avocado, Hazelnut, Mosqueta rose, Rosehip, Sunflower, and Walnut oils were studied plus Olive oil as the gold standard of cold-pressed virgin oils. Two different analytical approaches are proposed to rapidly verify the botanical species of the oil-based raw material. The first approach is based on a multivariate statistical analysis of conventional analytical data, namely their fatty acid composition. These data have been re-elaborated in a multivariate way by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and classification methods. The second approach proposes a fast and non-destructive spectrophotometric analysis to determine the color of these oils to discriminate among different species. In this regard, the raw diffuse reflectance spectra (380–780 nm) obtained by a UV-Vis spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere was considered and elaborated by chemometrics. This information was compared with the results obtained by the most common approach based on the CIELab parameters. A data fusion of chromatographic and spectral data was also investigated. Either fatty acid composition or color of these oils demonstrated to be two promising markers of their botanical authenticity.
Phenolic and Carotenoid Profile of Lamb’s Lettuce and Improvement of the Bioactive Content by Preharvest Conditions
Authors: Hernández Virginia , Botella M. Ángeles , Hellín Pilar , Cava Juana , Fenoll Jose , Mestre Teresa , Martínez Vicente , Flores Pilar
Published: January 2021

This study characterizes the phenolic, carotenoid and chlorophyll profile of lamb’s lettuce, a vegetable whose consumption in salads and ready-to-eat products is constantly growing. The MS/MS analysis allowed the identification of thirty-five phenolic compounds including hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids, flavanones, flavanols and flavanones, many of which are reported here in lamb’s lettuce for the first time. Chlorogenic acid was the principal phenolic compound found (57.1% of the total phenolic concentration) followed by its isomer cis-5-caffeoylquinic. Other major phenolic compounds were also hydroxycinnamic acids (coumaroylquinic, dicaffeoylquinic and feruloylquinic acids) as well as the flavones luteolin-7-rutinoside, diosmetin-apiosylglucoside and diosmin. Regarding carotenoids, seven xanthophyll and four carotenes, among which β-carotene and lutein were the major compounds, were detected from their UV-Vis absorption spectrum. In addition, chlorophylls a and b, their isomers and derivatives (pheophytin) were identified. Preharvest factors such as reduced fertilization levels or salinity increased some secondary metabolites, highlighting the importance of these factors on the final nutritional value of plant foods. Lamb’s lettuce was seen to be a good potential source of bioactive compounds, and fertilization management might be considered a useful tool for increasing its nutritional interest.
Determination of Three Typical Metabolites of Pyrethroid Pesticides in Tea Using a Modified QuEChERS Sample Preparation by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chen Hongping , Wang Xinlu , Liu Pingxiang , Jia Qi , Han Haolei , Jiang Changling , Qiu Jing
Published: January 2021

Pyrethroid pesticides are widely used on tea plants, and their residues of high frequency and concentration have received great attention. Until recently, the residues of typical metabolites of pyrethroid pesticides in tea were unknown. Herein, a modified “quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe” (QuEChERS) method for the determination of three typical metabolites of pyrethroid pesticides in tea, using ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, was developed. The mixture of florisil, octadecylsilane, and graphite carbon black was employed as modified QuEChERS adsorbents. A Kinetex C18 column achieved good separation and chromatographic peaks of all analytes. The calibration curves of 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA) and 4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzoic acid (4-F-3-PBA) were linear in the range of 0.1–50 ng mL−1 (determination coefficient R2 higher than 0.999), and that of cis-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-en-1-yl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid (TFA) was in the range of 1–100 ng mL−1 (R2 higher than 0.998). The method was validated and recoveries ranged from 83.0% to 117.3%. Intra- and inter-day precisions were lower than or equal to 13.2%. The limits of quantification of 3-PBA, 4-F-3-PBA, and TFA were 5, 2, and 10 μg kg−1, respectively. A total of 22 tea samples were monitored using this method, and 3-PBA and TFA were found in two green tea samples.
Metabolomic Approach for Characterization of Polyphenolic Compounds in Laminaria japonica, Undaria pinnatifida, Sargassum fusiforme and Ascophyllum nodosum
Authors: Shen Ping , Gu Yue , Zhang Chunxu , Sun Chenghang , Qin Lei , Yu Chenxu , Qi Hang
Published: January 2021

Profiling of polyphenolics in four types of brown macroalgae, namely Laminaria japonica (L. japonica), Undaria pinnatifida (U. pinnatifida), Sargassum fusiforme (S. fusiforme), and Ascophyllum nodosum (A. nodosum), and their effect on oxidation resistance were investigated for the first time. Polyphenolic extracts from marine brown macroalgae were shown to effectively remove oxidants from cells and cellular systems. A. nodosum showed the highest antioxidant activity among evaluated brown macroalgae, showing a better scavenging effect on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical and alleviating oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide to human keratinocytes (HaCaT) cells. Through Q-Exactive HF-X mass spectrometry analysis, 12 polyphenolic compounds were preliminarily identified, including phlorotannins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. Significant differences in content and variety of polyphenolics were found in evaluated brown macroalgae, which could be related to differences in antioxidant activity in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, the antioxidant activity might be related to the total phenolic content and the types of polyphenolics, especially phlorotannins. The findings presented in this study indicate that A. nodosum could be used as an important substitute for functional ingredients in foods and pharmaceutical preparations, as well as a raw material for phlorotannins research.
Dietary Whey Protein Supplementation Increases Immunoglobulin G Production by Affecting Helper T Cell Populations after Antigen Exposure
Authors: Ha Dong Jin , Kim Jonggun , Kim Saehun , Go Gwang-Woong , Whang Kwang-Youn
Published: January 2021

Whey protein is a by-product of cheese and casein manufacturing processes. It contains highly bioactive molecules, such as epidermal growth factor, colony-stimulating factor, transforming growth factor-α and -β, insulin-like growth factor, and fibroblast growth factor. Effects of whey protein on immune responses after antigen (hemagglutinin peptide) injection were evaluated in rats. Experimental diets were formulated based on NIH-31M and supplemented with 1% amino acids mixture (CON) or 1% whey protein concentrate (WPC) to generate isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets. Rats were fed the experimental diets for two weeks and then exposed to antigen two times (Days 0 and 14). Blood was collected on Days 0, 7, 14, and 21 for hematological analysis. The WPC group showed decreased IgA and cytotoxic T cells before the antigen injection (Day 0) but increased IgG, IL-2, and IL-4 after antigen injection due to increased B cells and T cells. Helper T cells were increased at Days 14 and 21, but cytotoxic T cells were not affected by WPC. WPC may activate adaptive immunity (IgG) against antigen by modulating helper T cells. Bioactive molecules might contribute to the immune-enhancing effects of whey protein concentrate.
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and the Intestinal Epithelium—A Review
Authors: Durkin Luke A. , Childs Caroline E. , Calder Philip C.
Published: January 2021

Epithelial cells (enterocytes) form part of the intestinal barrier, the largest human interface between the internal and external environments, and responsible for maintaining regulated intestinal absorption and immunological control. Under inflammatory conditions, the intestinal barrier and its component enterocytes become inflamed, leading to changes in barrier histology, permeability, and chemical mediator production. Omega-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can influence the inflammatory state of a range of cell types, including endothelial cells, monocytes, and macrophages. This review aims to assess the current literature detailing the effects of ω-3 PUFAs on epithelial cells. Marine-derived ω-3 PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, as well as plant-derived alpha-linolenic acid, are incorporated into intestinal epithelial cell membranes, prevent changes to epithelial permeability, inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids and induce the production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids and docosanoids. Altered inflammatory markers have been attributed to changes in activity and/or expression of proteins involved in inflammatory signalling including nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) α and γ, G-protein coupled receptor (GPR) 120 and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2. Effective doses for each ω-3 PUFA are difficult to determine due to inconsistencies in dose and time of exposure between different in vitro models and between in vivo and in vitro models. Further research is needed to determine the anti-inflammatory potential of less-studied ω-3 PUFAs, including docosapentaenoic acid and stearidonic acid.
Dissecting the Polygenic Basis of Cold Adaptation Using Genome-Wide Association of Traits and Environmental Data in Douglas-fir
Authors: De La Torre Amanda R. , Wilhite Benjamin , Puiu Daniela , St. Clair John Bradley , Crepeau Marc W. , Salzberg Steven L. , Langley Charles H. , Allen Brian , Neale David B.
Published: January 2021

Understanding the genomic and environmental basis of cold adaptation is key to understand how plants survive and adapt to different environmental conditions across their natural range. Univariate and multivariate genome-wide association (GWAS) and genotype-environment association (GEA) analyses were used to test associations among genome-wide SNPs obtained from whole-genome resequencing, measures of growth, phenology, emergence, cold hardiness, and range-wide environmental variation in coastal Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Results suggest a complex genomic architecture of cold adaptation, in which traits are either highly polygenic or controlled by both large and small effect genes. Newly discovered associations for cold adaptation in Douglas-fir included 130 genes involved in many important biological functions such as primary and secondary metabolism, growth and reproductive development, transcription regulation, stress and signaling, and DNA processes. These genes were related to growth, phenology and cold hardiness and strongly depend on variation in environmental variables such degree days below 0c, precipitation, elevation and distance from the coast. This study is a step forward in our understanding of the complex interconnection between environment and genomics and their role in cold-associated trait variation in boreal tree species, providing a baseline for the species’ predictions under climate change.
Hereditary Optic Neuropathies: Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based 2D/3D Approaches
Authors: García-López Marta , Arenas Joaquín , Gallardo M. Esther
Published: January 2021

Inherited optic neuropathies share visual impairment due to the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) as the hallmark of the disease. This group of genetic disorders are caused by mutations in nuclear genes or in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). An impaired mitochondrial function is the underlying mechanism of these diseases. Currently, optic neuropathies lack an effective treatment, and the implementation of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology would entail a huge step forward. The generation of iPSC-derived RGCs would allow faithfully modeling these disorders, and these RGCs would represent an appealing platform for drug screening as well, paving the way for a proper therapy. Here, we review the ongoing two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) approaches based on iPSCs and their applications, taking into account the more innovative technologies, which include tissue engineering or microfluidics.
Merging Genomics and Transcriptomics for Predicting Fusarium Head Blight Resistance in Wheat
Authors: Michel Sebastian , Wagner Christian , Nosenko Tetyana , Steiner Barbara , Samad-Zamini Mina , Buerstmayr Maria , Mayer Klaus , Buerstmayr Hermann
Published: January 2021

Genomic selection with genome-wide distributed molecular markers has evolved into a well-implemented tool in many breeding programs during the last decade. The resistance against Fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat is probably one of the most thoroughly studied systems within this framework. Aside from the genome, other biological strata like the transcriptome have likewise shown some potential in predictive breeding strategies but have not yet been investigated for the FHB-wheat pathosystem. The aims of this study were thus to compare the potential of genomic with transcriptomic prediction, and to assess the merit of blending incomplete transcriptomic with complete genomic data by the single-step method. A substantial advantage of gene expression data over molecular markers has been observed for the prediction of FHB resistance in the studied diversity panel of breeding lines and released cultivars. An increase in prediction ability was likewise found for the single-step predictions, although this can mostly be attributed to an increased accuracy among the RNA-sequenced genotypes. The usage of transcriptomics can thus be seen as a complement to already established predictive breeding pipelines with pedigree and genomic data, particularly when more cost-efficient multiplexing techniques for RNA-sequencing will become more accessible in the future.
Sex Chromosome Turnover in Bent-Toed Geckos (Cyrtodactylus)
Authors: Keating Shannon E. , Blumer Madison , Grismer L. Lee , Lin Aung , Nielsen Stuart V. , Thura Myint Kyaw , Wood Perry L. , Quah Evan S. H. , Gamble Tony
Published: January 2021

Lizards and snakes (squamates) are known for their varied sex determining systems, and gecko lizards are especially diverse, having evolved sex chromosomes independently multiple times. While sex chromosomes frequently turnover among gecko genera, intrageneric turnovers are known only from Gekko and Hemidactylus. Here, we used RADseq to identify sex-specific markers in two species of Burmese bent-toed geckos. We uncovered XX/XY sex chromosomes in Cyrtodactylus chaunghanakwaensis and ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes in Cyrtodactylus pharbaungensis. This is the third instance of intrageneric turnover of sex chromosomes in geckos. Additionally, Cyrtodactylus are closely related to another genus with intrageneric turnover, Hemidactylus. Together, these data suggest that sex chromosome turnover may be common in this clade, setting them apart as exceptionally diverse in a group already known for diverse sex determination systems.
Weighted Single-Step GWAS Identified Candidate Genes Associated with Growth Traits in a Duroc Pig Population
Authors: Ruan Donglin , Zhuang Zhanwei , Ding Rongrong , Qiu Yibin , Zhou Shenping , Wu Jie , Xu Cineng , Hong Linjun , Huang Sixiu , Zheng Enqin , Cai Gengyuan , Wu Zhenfang , Yang Jie
Published: January 2021

Growth traits are important economic traits of pigs that are controlled by several major genes and multiple minor genes. To better understand the genetic architecture of growth traits, we performed a weighted single-step genome-wide association study (wssGWAS) to identify genomic regions and candidate genes that are associated with days to 100 kg (AGE), average daily gain (ADG), backfat thickness (BF) and lean meat percentage (LMP) in a Duroc pig population. In this study, 3945 individuals with phenotypic and genealogical information, of which 2084 pigs were genotyped with a 50 K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array, were used for association analyses. We found that the most significant regions explained 2.56–3.07% of genetic variance for four traits, and the detected significant regions (>1%) explained 17.07%, 18.59%, 23.87% and 21.94% for four traits. Finally, 21 genes that have been reported to be associated with metabolism, bone growth, and fat deposition were treated as candidate genes for growth traits in pigs. Moreover, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses implied that the identified genes took part in bone formation, the immune system, and digestion. In conclusion, such full use of phenotypic, genotypic, and genealogical information will accelerate the genetic improvement of growth traits in pigs.
Overexpression of Activated AMPK in the Anopheles stephensi Midgut Impacts Mosquito Metabolism, Reproduction and Plasmodium Resistance
Authors: Oringanje Chioma , Delacruz Lillian R. , Han Yunan , Luckhart Shirley , Riehle Michael A.
Published: January 2021

Mitochondrial integrity and homeostasis in the midgut are key factors controlling mosquito fitness and anti-pathogen resistance. Targeting genes that regulate mitochondrial dynamics represents a potential strategy for limiting mosquito-borne diseases. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key cellular energy sensor found in nearly all eukaryotic cells. When activated, AMPK inhibits anabolic pathways that consume ATP and activates catabolic processes that synthesize ATP. In this study, we overexpressed a truncated and constitutively active α-subunit of AMPK under the control of the midgut-specific carboxypeptidase promotor in the midgut of female Anopheles stephensi. As expected, AMPK overexpression in homozygous transgenic mosquitoes was associated with changes in nutrient storage and metabolism, decreasing glycogen levels at 24 h post-blood feeding when transgene expression was maximal, and concurrently increasing circulating trehalose at the same time point. When transgenic lines were challenged with Plasmodium falciparum, we observed a significant decrease in the prevalence and intensity of infection relative to wild type controls. Surprisingly, we did not observe a significant difference in the survival of adult mosquitoes fed either sugar only or both sugar and bloodmeals throughout adult life. This may be due to the limited period that the transgene was activated before homeostasis was restored. However, we did observe a significant decrease in egg production, suggesting that manipulation of AMPK activity in the mosquito midgut resulted in the re-allocation of resources away from egg production. In summary, this work identifies midgut AMPK activity as an important regulator of metabolism, reproduction, and innate immunity in An. stephensi, a highly invasive and important malaria vector species.
HEDGEHOG/GLI Modulates the PRR11-SKA2 Bidirectional Transcription Unit in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Sun Yiyun , Xu Dandan , Zhang Chundong , Wang Yitao , Zhang Lian , Qiao Deqian , Bu Youquan , Zhang Ying
Published: January 2021

We previously demonstrated that proline-rich protein 11 (PRR11) and spindle and kinetochore associated 2 (SKA2) constituted a head-to-head gene pair driven by a prototypical bidirectional promoter. This gene pair synergistically promoted the development of non-small cell lung cancer. However, the signaling pathways leading to the ectopic expression of this gene pair remains obscure. In the present study, we first analyzed the lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) relevant RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database using the correlation analysis of gene expression and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), which revealed that the PRR11-SKA2 correlated gene list highly resembled the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway activation-related gene set. Subsequently, GLI1/2 inhibitor GANT-61 or GLI1/2-siRNA inhibited the Hh pathway of LSCC cells, concomitantly decreasing the expression levels of PRR11 and SKA2. Furthermore, the mRNA expression profile of LSCC cells treated with GANT-61 was detected using RNA sequencing, displaying 397 differentially expressed genes (203 upregulated genes and 194 downregulated genes). Out of them, one gene set, including BIRC5, NCAPG, CCNB2, and BUB1, was involved in cell division and interacted with both PRR11 and SKA2. These genes were verified as the downregulated genes via RT-PCR and their high expression significantly correlated with the shorter overall survival of LSCC patients. Taken together, our results indicate that GLI1/2 mediates the expression of the PRR11-SKA2-centric gene set that serves as an unfavorable prognostic indicator for LSCC patients, potentializing new combinatorial diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in LSCC.
A Novel Carboxylesterase Derived from a Compost Metagenome Exhibiting High Stability and Activity towards High Salinity
Authors: Lu Mingji , Daniel Rolf
Published: January 2021

Halotolerant lipolytic enzymes have gained growing interest, due to potential applications under harsh conditions, such as hypersalinity and presence of organic solvents. In this study, a lipolytic gene, est56, encoding 287 amino acids was identified by functional screening of a compost metagenome. Subsequently, the gene was heterologously expressed, and the recombinant protein (Est56) was purified and characterized. Est56 is a mesophilic (Topt 50 °C) and moderate alkaliphilic (pHopt 8) enzyme, showing high thermostability at 30 and 40 °C. Strikingly, Est56 is halotolerant as it exhibited high activity and stability in the presence of up to 4 M NaCl or KCl. Est56 also displayed enhanced stability against high temperatures (50 and 60 °C) and urea (2, 4, and 6 M) in the presence of NaCl. In addition, the recently reported halotolerant lipolytic enzymes were summarized. Phylogenetic analysis grouped these enzymes into 13 lipolytic protein families. The majority (45%) including Est56 belonged to family IV. To explore the haloadaptation of halotolerant enzymes, the amino acid composition between halotolerant and halophilic enzymes was statistically compared. The most distinctive feature of halophilic from non-halophilic enzymes are the higher content of acidic residues (Asp and Glu), and a lower content of lysine, aliphatic hydrophobic (Leu, Met and Ile) and polar (Asn) residues. The amino acid composition and 3-D structure analysis suggested that the high content of acidic residues (Asp and Glu, 12.2%) and low content of lysine residues (0.7%), as well as the excess of surface-exposed acidic residues might be responsible for the haloadaptation of Est56.
Identification of Potential Risk Genes and the Immune Landscape of Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension via Microarray Gene Expression Dataset Reanalysis
Authors: Xu Jing , Yang Yicheng , Yang Yuejin , Xiong Changming
Published: January 2021

Gene dysfunction and immune cell infiltration play an essential role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). We aimed to investigate the immune landscape and novel differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of IPAH. In addition, potential druggable molecular targets for IPAH were also explored. In this study, the GSE117261 dataset was reanalyzed to explore the immune landscape and hub DEGs of IPAH. Lasso Cox regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed to detect the predictive value of IPAH. Additionally, the underlying drug targets for IPAH treatment were determined by drug–gene analysis. IPAH was significantly associated with the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway and Wnt signaling pathway as well as energetic metabolism dysfunction. We identified 31 upregulated and 39 downregulated DEGs in IPAH patients. Six hub genes, namely, SAA1, CCL5, CXCR1, CXCR2, CCR1, and ADORA3, were related to IPAH pathogenesis regardless of sex differences. Prediction model analysis showed that the area under the curve values of the hub DEGs except CXCR2 were all above 0.9 for distinguishing IPAH patients. In addition, the relative proportions of 5 subtypes of immune cells, namely, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ memory resting T cells, γ delta T cells, M1 macrophages, and resting mast cells, were significantly upregulated in the IPAH samples, while 6 subtypes of immune cells, namely, CD4+ naive T cells, resting NK cells, monocytes, M0 macrophages, activated mast cells, and neutrophils, were downregulated. Additionally, a total of 17 intersecting drugs targeting 5 genes, CCL5, CXCR1, CXCR2, CCR1, and ADORA3, were generated as potential druggable molecular targets for IPAH. Our study revealed the underlying correlations between genes and immune cells in IPAH and demonstrated for the first time that SAA1, CCL5, CXCR1, CCR1, and ADORA3 may be novel genetic targets for IPAH.
Using Residual Dynamic Structural Equation Modeling to Explore the Relationships among Employees’ Self-Reported Health, Daily Positive Mood, and Daily Emotional Exhaustion
Authors: Kung Ya-Tzu , Chi Shyh-Ching , Chen Yung-Chou , Chang Chia-Ming
Published: January 2021

This study examined the relationships among self-reported health, daily positive mood, and daily emotional exhaustion among employees in health and fitness clubs using residual dynamic structural equation modeling (RDSEM). A questionnaire was completed by 179 employees at recruitment and then a diary survey over 10 consecutive workdays. Results of RDSEM analyses revealed that daily positive mood was negatively associated with daily emotional exhaustion at both within-person and between-person levels. Self-reported health was positively related to the person’s mean of daily positive mood and negatively associated with the person’s mean of daily emotional exhaustion. Self-reported health moderated the relationship between daily positive mood and daily emotional exhaustion; employees with higher self-reported health levels tend to respond with larger changes in their daily emotional exhaustion when their daily positive mood changes. These findings provide important insights for organizations aiming at their employees’ health, happiness, and job burnout.
Perceptions of Romanian Physicians on Lockdowns for COVID-19 Prevention
Authors: Dima Alina , Balaban Daniel Vasile , Jurcut Ciprian , Berza Ioana , Jurcut Ruxandra , Jinga Mariana
Published: January 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) disease (COVID-19) was declared a pandemic in March 2020, triggering important changes for the entire society and healthcare systems, as well as significant lockdown measures aimed to limit the disease spread. We herein intended to catch the dynamic of Romanian physicians’ perceptions of COVID-19 impact. For this purpose, after a literature review, a 30-item questionnaire was designed. The questionnaire was twice distributed online, about 1 month apart, during which partial relaxation measures were decreed in Romania. The questionnaire was voluntarily filled in by Romanian physicians who were willing to participate in the study. A total of 214 physicians answered the questionnaire upon its first release, and 199 respondents were registered upon its second release, most of whom (94.9%) were involved in clinical work, with one-third working in units dedicated to COVID-19 patients. In parallel with the relaxation of lockdown measures, along with increased confidence in the efficiency of protective measures (46.7% vs. 31.3%), separation from household members decreased from 36.9% to 22.1%. Nevertheless, the feeling of rejection felt by doctors remained similar (22.4% vs. 24.6%). Furthermore, answers regarding the clinical picture, diagnostic approach, and treatment options are discussed. Most of therapeutic options considered for SARS-CoV-2 treatment (e.g., lopinavir/ritonavir, oseltamivir, hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, tocilizumab, and convalescent plasma) failed to confirm significant efficiency. On the contrary, vaccines for widescale use are already available despite the initial skepticism. In the beginning of the pandemic, 25.2% (18.2% vs. 32.2%) considered that there will not be an effective COVID-19 vaccine, while 41.6% (43.0% vs. 40.2%) thought that a vaccine would be available after at least 12 months. In conclusion, initially, following only a 1 month period, Romanian physicians’ intention to consider treatments such as hydroxychloroquine or lopinavir/ritonavir for COVID-19 decreased significantly. Moreover, confidence in the efficiency of available protective measures increased, and the rates of separation from household members decreased.
Adverse Effects of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids: A Literature Review
Authors: Albano Giuseppe Davide , Amico Francesco , Cocimano Giuseppe , Liberto Aldo , Maglietta Francesca , Esposito Massimiliano , Rosi Giuseppe Li , Di Nunno Nunzio , Salerno Monica , Montana Angelo
Published: January 2021

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) are a large group of molecules including endogenously produced androgens, such as testosterone, as well as synthetically manufactured derivatives. AAS use is widespread due to their ability to improve muscle growth for aesthetic purposes and athletes’ performance, minimizing androgenic effects. AAS use is very popular and 1–3% of US inhabitants have been estimated to be AAS users. However, AASs have side effects, involving all organs, tissues and body functions, especially long-term toxicity involving the cardiovascular system and the reproductive system, thereby, their abuse is considered a public health issue. The aim of the proposed review is to highlight the most recent evidence regarding the mechanisms of action of AASs and their unwanted effects on organs and lifestyle, as well as suggesting that AAS misuse and abuse lead to adverse effects in all body tissues and organs. Oxidative stress, apoptosis, and protein synthesis alteration are common mechanisms involved in AAS-related damage in the whole body. The cardiovascular system and the reproductive system are the most frequently involved apparatuses. Epidemiology as well as the molecular and pathological mechanisms involved in the neuropsychiatric side-effects of AAS abuse are still unclear, further research is needed in this field. In addition, diagnostically reliable tests for AAS abuse should be standardized. In this regard, to prevent the use of AASs, public health measures in all settings are crucial. These measures consist of improved knowledge among healthcare workers, proper doping screening tests, educational interventions, and updated legislation.
Cost Analysis of Selected Radiotherapeutic Modalities for Prostate Cancer Treatment—Czech Republic Case Study for the Purposes of Hospital Based HTA
Authors: Hospodková Petra , Husár Tomáš , Klíčová Barbora , Severová Lucie , Šrédl Karel , Svoboda Roman
Published: January 2021

This study aims to calculate the costs of prostate cancer radiotherapy in a regional hospital Department of Radiation Oncology equipped with Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT) and Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) Volumetric Arc Therapy (VMAT) radiation technology, using activity based costing (ABC), and to compare the costs of both methods at the level of component treatment process activities and with respect to insurance reimbursements. The costing was performed based on a sample of 273 IMRT VMAT patients and 312 3D-CRT patients in a regional hospital in the period from 2018 to 2019. The research has highlighted the necessity to place emphasis on factors that may skew the costing results. The resulting output has been supplemented by a sensitivity analysis, whereas the modeled parameter is represented by the time required for one patient fraction on a linear accelerator and the time the Radiology Assistant needs to prepare the complete radiation plan as part of radiotherapy planning. Moreover, the effects of the received grant, in the form of calculated write-offs, are also considered. The case study uses the example of radiotherapy to demonstrate the potential of ABC and suggests considering the application of this method as an effective management tool for cost and economic evaluation as part of comprehensive hospital assessment under the Hospital-Based Health Technology Assessment (HB-HTA) initiative.
The Reliability of Pelvic Floor Muscle Bioelectrical Activity (sEMG) Assessment Using a Multi-Activity Measurement Protocol in Young Women
Authors: Oleksy Łukasz , Mika Anna , Sulowska-Daszyk Iwona , Rosłoniec Ewelina , Kielnar Renata , Stolarczyk Artur
Published: January 2021

The aim of the study was to determine the between-trial and between-day reliability of the Glazer protocol and our multi-activity surface electromyography (sEMG) measurement protocol for pelvic floor muscle (PFM) evaluation. The bioelectrical activity of PFM was collected using an endovaginal electrode in 30 young, Caucasian, nulliparous women (age 22–27, 168.6 ± 5.1 cm, 57.1 ± 11.8 kg). The between-trial and between-day reliability of the original Glazer protocol and the new multi-activity sEMG protocol were assessed during the following phases: pre-baseline rest, phasic (flick) contractions, tonic contractions, endurance contraction, and post-baseline rest. The Glazer protocol was characterized by poor and moderate measurement reliability. The time-domain parameters for the rise and fall of the signal amplitude and median frequency showed poor between-trial and between-day reliability. The mean and peak amplitudes indicated mainly good between-trial and moderate between-days reliability. Our protocol showed moderate to excellent reliability of both time-domain and quantitative parameters of muscle recruitment. In our protocol, the frequency-domain parameters describing muscle fatigue demonstrated much higher reliability than in the case of the Glazer protocol. The most important information obtained in this study was the significant improvement of diagnostic validity in PFM bioelectrical activity evaluation. The higher reliability of our sEMG protocol compared to original Glazer protocol allowed us to suggest that protocol modifications and changes in sEMG signal processing methods were effective in the improvement of PFM assessment quality. The new parameters calculated from the sEMG signal proposed in our sEMG protocol allowed us to obtain additional clinically important information about PFM dysfunctions regarding specific deficits of muscle contraction such as decrease in muscle strength; endurance or coordination related to, e.g., stress urinary incontinence; or pelvic floor muscle imbalance after childbirth.
Systematic Review of Self-Assessment in Physical Education
Authors: Otero-Saborido Fernando M. , Torreblanca-Martínez Victor , González-Jurado José Antonio
Published: January 2021

Self-assessment is among the most impactful processes in student learning. Since no review of this process was found in the field of physical education (PE), the objective of this work was to perform a systematic review of the literature published over the last five years on the self-assessment of PE students in formal education contexts. The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to select the articles. A total of three researchers independently applied the above criteria and obtained a total of thirteen studies. After synthesising the results by category, we found that: a majority of the studies were conducted in Europe; all 13 studies covered the educational stages of either secondary or higher education; an even number of qualitative and quantitative approaches were distributed among the studies; some studies focused on specific sports or contents, while others were applicable to any subject; and, finally, depending on the research design adopted, the results described self-assessment strategy processes, improvements in learning, drew descriptive portraits of students regarding health, or reflected students’ positive perceptions of self-assessment. It is necessary to conduct further studies on PE students’ self-assessment, especially in primary education.
Microplastic Contamination in Snow from Western Italian Alps
Authors: Parolini Marco , Antonioli Diego , Borgogno Franco , Gibellino Maria Cristina , Fresta Jacopo , Albonico Carlo , De Felice Beatrice , Canuto Susanna , Concedi Donatella , Romani Alessandra , Rosio Emanuela , Gianotti Valentina , Laus Michele , Ambrosini Roberto , Cavallo Roberto
Published: January 2021

Recent studies have documented the presence of microplastics (MPs) in remote areas, including soils or sediments collected in mountain and glacier environments, but information on their presence in snow is scant. The present study aimed at exploring the presence of MPs in residual snow collected in four locations of the Aosta Valley (Western Italian Alps), with different accessibility and human presence. Overall, the µ-FTIR analyses confirmed the presence of 18 MPs in snow, 7 (39%) items were fibres, while 11 (61%) were fragments. Polyethylene (PE; 7 MPs) was the main polymer, followed by polyethylene terephthalate (PET; 3 MPs), high density PE (HDPE; 3 MPs), polyester (2 MPs), while only 1 MP made by low density PE, polypropylene and polyurethane were found. The mean (± SE) concentration of MPs in snow ranged between 0.39 ± 0.39 MPs/L and 4.91 ± 2.48 MPs/L, with a mean of 2.32 ± 0.96 MPs/L for the sampling locations. The concentration of MPs did not statistically differ among locations. Our results suggest that MPs presence in high-mountain ecosystems might depend on deposition through atmospheric precipitations or local sources due to human activities. For these reasons, policies aiming at reducing plastic use and dispersal in mountain areas may be effective in preventing local MP contamination.
COVID-19 Stress and Mental Health of Students in Locked-Down Colleges
Authors: Li Xueyan , Fu Ping , Fan Changyu , Zhu Miao , Li Min
Published: January 2021

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of students in locked-down colleges remains obscure. This study aimed to explore influencing factors for the psychological impact of COVID-19 on Wuhan college students, post-traumatic stress symptoms in particular, so as to inform evidence-based strategy development to ameliorate such adverse impacts. An online survey was conducted from 26 to 29 April 2020, and 4355 students enrolled in Wuhan universities and colleges participated. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder via the Impact of Event-Scale-Revised was assessed. COVID-19 disproportionately affected older male Master’s and doctoral students living in Wuhan. The overall prevalence of PTSD was 16.3%. The three-level socio-interpersonal model of PTSD was empirically validated, and college students faced individual level risks such as infection with COVID-19, close relationship level risks such as family support (infection suspicion of family members, the loss of loved ones, and the family income decrease) and online course difficulties (little interaction, disturbing learning environment, and difficulty in adaption), and distant level risks such as excessive collection of personal information, estrangement of family relatives, and harassment and insult from strangers. The findings suggest the severity of the psychological impact of COVID-19. Mental health services reducing PTSD should be provided. Students who have lost loved ones and suffered family financial loss should be given particular care.
The Activation of Gluteal, Thigh, and Lower Back Muscles in Different Squat Variations Performed by Competitive Bodybuilders: Implications for Resistance Training
Authors: Coratella Giuseppe , Tornatore Gianpaolo , Caccavale Francesca , Longo Stefano , Esposito Fabio , Cè Emiliano
Published: January 2021

The present study investigated the activation of gluteal, thigh, and lower back muscles in different squat variations. Ten male competitive bodybuilders perform back-squat at full (full-BS) or parallel (parallel-BS) depth, using large feet-stance (sumo-BS), and enhancing the feet external rotation (external-rotated-sumo-BS) and front-squat (FS) at 80% 1-RM. The normalized surface electromyographic root-mean-square (sEMG RMS) amplitude of gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, adductor longus, longissimus, and iliocostalis was recorded during both the ascending and descending phase of each exercise. During the descending phase, greater sEMG RMS amplitude of gluteus maximus and gluteus medius was found in FS vs. all other exercises (p < 0.05). Additionally, FS elicited iliocostalis more than all other exercises. During the ascending phase, both sumo-BS and external-rotated-sumo-BS showed greater vastus lateralis and adductor longus activation compared to all other exercises (p < 0.05). Moreover, rectus femoris activation was greater in FS compared to full-BS (p < 0.05). No between-exercise difference was found in vastus medialis and longissimus showed no between-exercise difference. FS needs more backward stabilization during the descending phase. Larger feet-stance increases thigh muscles activity, possibly because of their longer length. These findings show how bodybuilders uniquely recruit muscles when performing different squat variations.
Analysis of the Spread of COVID-19 in the USA with a Spatio-Temporal Multivariate Time Series Model
Authors: Rui Rongxiang , Tian Maozai , Tang Man-Lai , Ho George To-Sum , Wu Chun-Ho
Published: January 2021

With the rapid spread of the pandemic due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the virus has already led to considerable mortality and morbidity worldwide, as well as having a severe impact on economic development. In this article, we analyze the state-level correlation between COVID-19 risk and weather/climate factors in the USA. For this purpose, we consider a spatio-temporal multivariate time series model under a hierarchical framework, which is especially suitable for envisioning the virus transmission tendency across a geographic area over time. Briefly, our model decomposes the COVID-19 risk into: (i) an autoregressive component that describes the within-state COVID-19 risk effect; (ii) a spatiotemporal component that describes the across-state COVID-19 risk effect; (iii) an exogenous component that includes other factors (e.g., weather/climate) that could envision future epidemic development risk; and (iv) an endemic component that captures the function of time and other predictors mainly for individual states. Our results indicate that maximum temperature, minimum temperature, humidity, the percentage of cloud coverage, and the columnar density of total atmospheric ozone have a strong association with the COVID-19 pandemic in many states. In particular, the maximum temperature, minimum temperature, and the columnar density of total atmospheric ozone demonstrate statistically significant associations with the tendency of COVID-19 spreading in almost all states. Furthermore, our results from transmission tendency analysis suggest that the community-level transmission has been relatively mitigated in the USA, and the daily confirmed cases within a state are predominated by the earlier daily confirmed cases within that state compared to other factors, which implies that states such as Texas, California, and Florida with a large number of confirmed cases still need strategies like stay-at-home orders to prevent another outbreak.
Muscular Strength Spurts in Adolescent Male Basketball Players: The INEX Study
Authors: Guimarães Eduardo , Maia José A. R. , Williams Mark , Sousa Filipa , Santos Eduardo , Tavares Fernando , Janeira Manuel A. , Baxter-Jones Adam D. G.
Published: January 2021

Although successful performance in basketball requires high levels of muscular strength during adolescence, its development is confounded by the effects of normal growth. We examine the timing, intensity and sequence of muscular strength according to biological age (years from peak height velocity (PHV)) and hypothesize that young basketball players attain their peak muscular strength spurts around PHV. A total of 160 adolescent male basketballers, aged 11–15 years, were followed bi-annually over 3 consecutive years. The years from attainment of PHV and peak weight velocity (PWV) were estimated and five muscular strength measures (sit-ups, handgrip, seated medicine ball throw, squat jump and countermovement jump) were aligned to years from PHV in 3-month intervals. Strength velocities were estimated using a non-smooth mathematical model. The mean ages at-PHV and at-PWV were 13.90 ± 1.40 years and 13.90 ± 1.79 years, respectively. Maximal velocity in sit-ups was attained 6 months prior to attainment of PHV (intensity = 10.69 repetitions·year−1), whereas maximal velocity in squat jump occurred 6 months after-PHV (intensity = 3.93 cm·year−1). Handgrip strength, seated medicine ball throw and countermovement jump maximal velocity peaked at-PHV (intensity = 8.47 kgf·year−1, intensity = 0.75 m·year−1, intensity = 5.59 cm·year−1, respectively). In general, maximal velocity spurts did not differ in their timing, with the velocities reaching a peak concurrent with PHV and PWV or within 6 months of its attainment. Basketball coaches, as well as strength and conditioning trainers, should consider individual differences in strength development and be aware of rapid periods of growth in stature when planning and designing muscular strength training regimes.