bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Investigation on Proppant–Water Mixture Transport in Slot under High Reynolds Number Conditions
Authors: Zhang Tao , Yang Ruoyu , Guo Jianchun , Zeng Jie
Published: October 2020

Water hydraulic fracturing involves pumping low viscosity fluid and proppant mixture into the artificial fracture under a high pumping rate. In that high Reynolds number conditions (HRNCs, Re > 2000), the turbulence effect is one of the key factors affecting proppant transportation and placement. In this paper, a Eulerian multiphase model was used to simulate the proppant particle transport in a parallel slot under HRNCs. Turbulence effects in high pumping rates and frictional stress among the proppant particles were taken into consideration, and the Johnson-Jackson wall boundary conditions were used to describe the particle-wall interaction. The numerical simulation result was validated with laboratory-scale slot experiment results. The simulation results demonstrate that the pattern of the proppant bank is significantly affected by the vortex near the wellbore, and the whole proppant transport process can be divided into four stages under HRNCs. Furthermore, the proppant placement structure and the equilibrium height of proppant dune under HRNCs are comprehensively discussed by a parametrical study, including injection position, velocity, proppant density, concentration, and diameter. As the injection position changes from the lower one to the top one, the unpropped area near the entrance decrease by 7.1 times, and the equilibrium height for the primary dune increase by 5.3%. As the velocity of the slurry jet increases from 2 m/s to 5 m/s (Re = 2000–5000), the vortex becomes stronger, so the non-propped area near the inlet increase by 5.3 times, and the equilibrium height decrease by 5.2%. The change of proppant properties does not significantly change the vortex; however, the equilibrium height is affected by the high-speed flush. Thus, the conventional equilibrium height prediction correlation is not suitable for the HRNCs. Therefore, a modified bi-power law prediction correlation was proposed based on the simulation data, which can be used to accurately predict the equilibrium height of the proppant bank under HRNCs (mean deviation = 3.8%).
Eulerian and Lagrangian Comparison of Wind Jets in the Tokar Gap Region
Authors: Pratt Larry J. , Albright E. Jason , Rypina Irina , Jiang Houshuo
Published: October 2020

The Lagrangian and Eulerian structure and dynamics of a strong wind event in the Tokar Gap region are described using a Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model hindcast for 2008. Winds in the Tokar Gap reach 25 m s−1 and remain coherent as a jet far out over the Red Sea, whereas equally strong wind jets occurring in neighboring gaps are attenuated abruptly by jump-like hydraulic transitions that occur just offshore of the Sudan coast. The transition is made possible by the supercritical nature of the jets, which are fed by air that spills down from passes at relatively high elevation. By contrast, the spilling flow in the ravine-like Tokar Gap does not become substantially supercritical and therefore does not undergo a jump, and also carries more total horizontal momentum. The Tokar Wind Jet carries some air parcels across the Red Sea and into Saudi Arabia, whereas air parcel trajectories in the neighboring jets ascend as they cross through the jumps, then veer sharply to the southeast and do not cross the Red Sea. The mountain parameter Nh/U is estimated to lie in the range of 1.0–4.0 for the general region, a result roughly consistent with a gap jet having a long extension, and supercritical flows spilling down from higher elevation passes. The strong event is marked by the formation of a feature with a vertical cellular structure in the upstream entrance region of the Tokar Gap, a feature absent from the more moderate events that occur throughout the summer. The cell contains descending air parcels that are fed into the Tokar Gap and one of the neighboring gaps. An analysis of the Bernoulli function along air parcel trajectories reveals an approximate balance between the loss of potential energy and gain of internal energy and pressure, with surprisingly little contribution from kinetic energy, along the path of the descending flow. The winds in all gaps attain the critical wind speed nominally required to loft dust into the atmosphere, though only the Tokar Gap has a broad, silty delta region capable of supplying particulate matter for dust storms.
Glacier Changes in the Semi-Arid Huasco Valley, Chile, between 1986 and 2016
Authors: Hess Katharina , Schmidt Susanne , Nüsser Marcus , Zang Carina , Dame Juliane
Published: October 2020

In the semi-arid and arid regions of the Chilean Andes, meltwater from the cryosphere is a key resource for the local economy and population. In this setting, climate change and economic activities foster water scarcity and resource conflicts. The study presents a detailed glacier and rock glacier inventory for the Huasco valley (28–29° S) in northern Chile based on a multi-temporal remote sensing approach. The results indicate a glacier-covered area of 16.35 ± 3.06 km2 (n = 167) and, additionally, 50 rock glaciers covering an area of about 8.6 km2 in 2016. About 81% of the ice-bodies are smaller than 0.1 km2, and only four glaciers are larger than 1 km2. The change analysis reveals a more or less stable period between 1986 and 2000 and a drastic decline in the glacier-covered area by about 35% between 2000 and 2016. The detailed assessment of six subregions indicates a more pronounced glacier decrease in the vicinity of the Pascua Lama mining project.
Online University Counselling Services and Psychological Problems among Italian Students in Lockdown Due to Covid-19
Authors: Savarese Giulia , Curcio Luigi , D’Elia Daniela , Fasano Oreste , Pecoraro Nadia
Published: October 2020

Introduction: With the advent of Covid-19, Italian university students were overwhelmed by fear of the pandemic and the social restrictions of the lockdown phase, with all didactic activity provided online. These stress factors caused people to experience psychological problems and/or the aggravation of pre-existing mental symptomatology. Psychological support is, therefore, important for the university-student population. Aims: (1) Analyzing the psychological difficulties and mental problems relative to lockdown from Covid-19 of students who asked for help from the Center of Psychological Counseling of the University of Salerno. (2) Describing the online services of the university’s psychological counseling treatment. Participants: 266 university students, but only 49 were undergoing psychological treatment during the Covid-19 lockdown at the center. Methods: (1) Semistructured interview; (2) Questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic information and ad hoc questions; and (3) Scl-90-r test. Results and Conclusions: Aim 1: The main results highlight high levels of anxiety and stress, concentration disorders, and psychosomatization. In several cases, there was a reactivation of previous traumas and sleep was found qualitatively compromised. Aim 2: Counseling services included telephone listening activities, online psychological interviews, psychoeducational groups for interventions of anxiety management, and workshops on study methods conducted in small groups. The online counseling intervention, in times of emergency, increased the resilience and identified any psychological problems in order to implement timely management.
Optimal Subsidy Support for Market-Oriented Transformation of Elderly Care: Focus on the Gap between Supply and Demand in Aging Regions of China
Authors: Song Huan , Yu Sihang , Liu Feng , Sun Xuan , Sun Tao
Published: October 2020

Satisfying the growing care demands of the elderly has become a major policy issue under the trend of rapidly aging of the population, especially in developing countries. Although the market-oriented transformation on the supply side is a sustainable way to cope with the pressing demands of elderly care in the long term, the conflict between private and public interests seriously impedes the transformation process in its early stage. From the perspective of maximizing social welfare, this study took the specific situation of China as an example and applied a Stackelberg game model to explore the optimal transformation policy that can balance such conflict of interests. By comparing the effects of two forms of subsidy in China, the results first theoretically verified the importance of subsidy in stimulating the private supply of elderly care, and then emphasized that the size of the gap between supply and demand is the fulcrum of differentiated subsidy, which determines the optimal policy for the development of the elderly care market (ECM) in each aging region. Additionally, the study showed that in the process of market-oriented transformation, the government’s positive response to the demands and preferences of the public, the establishment of market supervision measures, and the increase in the elderly’s affordability all play important roles in improving social welfare. These findings not only have policy implications for the marketization of elderly care in China, but also provide meaningful references for other developing countries in the word that are experiencing or about to experience elderly care problems.
Emergency Healthcare Providers’ Perceptions of Preparedness and Willingness to Work during Disasters and Public Health Emergencies
Authors: Sultan Mohammed Ali Salem , Løwe Sørensen Jarle , Carlström Eric , Mortelmans Luc , Khorram-Manesh Amir
Published: October 2020

This study evaluates the perceptions of preparedness and willingness to work during disasters and public health emergencies among 213 healthcare workers at hospitals in the southern region of Saudi Arabia by using a quantitative survey (Fight or Flight). The results showed that participants’ willingness to work unconditionally during disasters and emergencies varied based on the type of condition: natural disasters (61.97%), seasonal influenza pandemic (52.58%), smallpox pandemic (47.89%), SARS/COVID-19 pandemic (43.56%), special flu pandemic (36.15%), mass shooting (37.56%), chemical incident and bombing threats (31.92%), biological events (28.17%), Ebola outbreaks (27.7%), and nuclear incident (24.88%). A lack of confidence and the absence of safety assurance for healthcare workers and their family members were the most important reasons cited. The co-variation between age and education versus risk and danger by Spearman’s rho confirmed a small negative correlation between education and danger at a 95% level of significance, meaning that educated healthcare workers have less fear to work under dangerous events. Although the causes of unsuccessful management of disasters and emergencies may vary, individuals’ characteristics, such as lack of confidence and emotional distractions because of uncertainty about the safety issues, may also play a significant role. Besides educational initiatives, other measures, which guarantee the safety of healthcare providers and their family members, should be established and implemented.
Toddlers’ Language Development: The Gradual Effect of Gestational Age, Attention Capacities, and Maternal Sensitivity
Authors: Snijders Vera E. , Bogicevic Lilly , Verhoeven Marjolein , van Baar Anneloes L.
Published: October 2020

Language development in toddlerhood forms the foundation for speech and language comprehension throughout childhood. Children born moderately preterm are at increased risk for problems in receptive and expressive language functioning, and they may need specific support or interventions. To understand the underlying mechanisms of language development, an integrated model of gestational age, attention capacities, and maternal sensitivity was examined in relation to receptive and expressive language functioning in toddlerhood. Our sample included 221 children (gestational age between 32–41 + 6 weeks; 54.7% born moderately preterm; 51.6% boys; 69.1% highly educated mothers). At 18 months (corrected age), attention capacities were measured using an eye-tracking procedure and maternal sensitivity was observed during mother-child interaction. Language was assessed at 24 months (corrected age). Results showed children with a higher gestational age scored higher on receptive language. This association was direct, as well as indirect through the child’s alerting attention. Expressive language was related to maternal sensitivity. Gestational age and alerting attention capacities specifically were related to language comprehension, whereas maternal sensitivity was related to speech. As language comprehension and speech in toddlerhood show different associations with biological, child, contextual, and regulation factors, they should be viewed as separate constructs in research and practice.
Using Structural Equations to Model the Relationships between Procedural Justice, Risky Lifestyles, and Violent Inmate Misconduct
Authors: Choi Jaeyong , Ishoy Glen A. , Lee Julak
Published: October 2020

Prior research has consistently shown that perceptions of procedural justice promote individuals’ compliance with the law. Several studies have also identified mechanisms that explain the association between perceptions of procedural justice and compliance (e.g., social identity). However, the potential role of risky behaviors as a mediator of the association between procedural justice and compliance remains unexplored. This study examined whether risky behaviors can mediate the relationship between procedural justice and violent inmate misconduct. Data for this study were derived from a sample of 986 incarcerated felons in South Korea. The present study employed structural equation modeling to test how risky lifestyles mediate the association between procedural justice and violent misconduct. The results showed that procedural justice reduced violent inmate misconduct. Additionally, the mediation hypothesis received partial support: the direct effect of procedural justice on violent misconduct was partially mediated by involvement in risky activities. Taken together, the results highlight the importance of the interrelationship between procedural justice, risky lifestyles, and violent misconduct in a prison setting.
Physical Activity Level during Pregnancy in South Africa: A Facility-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Okafor Uchenna Benedine , Goon Daniel Ter
Published: October 2020

Physical activity participation during pregnancy confers many maternal and foetal health benefits to the woman and her infant and is recommended by various health bodies and institutions. However, in South Africa, scant information exists about the physical activity status and its determinants among pregnant women. The aim of this study was to assess the physical activity level and associated factors among pregnant women. This cross-sectional study enrolled 1082 pregnant women attending public health facilities in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Information on socio-demographic and maternal characteristics were obtained, and the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess physical activity during pregnancy. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between physical activity and the predictor variables during pregnancy. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were applied to estimate factors associated with physical activity levels. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Only 278 of the women (25.7%) met recommendations for prenatal activity (≥150 min moderate intensity exercise per week). The average time spent in moderate–vigorous physical activity was 151.6 min (95% CI: 147.2–156.0). Most of the women participated in light exercises with a mean of 65.9% (95% CI: 64.8–67.0), and 47.6% (95% CI: 46.3–48.9) participated in household activities. The majority of the women did not receive physical activity advice during prenatal care sessions (64.7%). Factors negatively associated with prenatal physical activity were lower age (<19 years) (adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 0.3; CI: 0.16–0.76), semi-urban residence (AOR = 0.8; CI: 0.55–1.03), lower educational level (AOR = 0.5; CI: 0.20–0.71), unemployment (AOR = 0.5; CI: 0.29–0.77) and nulliparity (AOR = 0.6; CI: 0.28–1.31). However, prenatal physical activity was positively associated with starting physical activity in the first trimester (AOR = 1.9; CI: 1.06–3.31) compared to other trimesters. The findings of this study demonstrated low levels of physical activity during pregnancy in South Africa. The majority of women did not meet the recommendation of 150 min of moderate intensity activity per week. Light intensity and household activities were the most preferred form of activity. The factors affecting physical activity of women in this present study include lower age, semi-urban setting, low educational level, unemployment and nulliparity. In order to increase activity levels, future work should seek to improve knowledge, access and support for physical activity in pregnant women in South Africa. This should include education and advocacy regarding physical activity for professionals involved in maternal health provision.
Examining the Change of Human Mobility Adherent to Social Restriction Policies and Its Effect on COVID-19 Cases in Australia
Authors: Wang Siqin , Liu Yan , Hu Tao
Published: October 2020

The policy induced decline of human mobility has been recognised as effective in controlling the spread of COVID-19, especially in the initial stage of the outbreak, although the relationship among mobility, policy implementation, and virus spread remains contentious. Coupling the data of confirmed COVID-19 cases with the Google mobility data in Australia, we present a state-level empirical study to: (1) inspect the temporal variation of the COVID-19 spread and the change of human mobility adherent to social restriction policies; (2) examine the extent to which different types of mobility are associated with the COVID-19 spread in eight Australian states/territories; and (3) analyse the time lag effect of mobility restriction on the COVID-19 spread. We find that social restriction policies implemented in the early stage of the pandemic controlled the COVID-19 spread effectively; the restriction of human mobility has a time lag effect on the growth rates of COVID-19, and the strength of the mobility-spread correlation increases up to seven days after policy implementation but decreases afterwards. The association between human mobility and COVID-19 spread varies across space and time and is subject to the types of mobility. Thus, it is important for government to consider the degree to which lockdown conditions can be eased by accounting for this dynamic mobility-spread relationship.
Socio-Economic Factors Related to Drinking Water Source and Sanitation in Malaysia
Authors: Kong Yuke-Lin , Anis-Syakira Jailani , Fun Weng Hong , Balqis-Ali Nur Zahirah , Shakirah M. S. , Sararaks Sondi
Published: October 2020

Access to improved water and sanitation is essential. We describe these practices in Malaysia using data from a nationwide community survey and used logistic regression to assess the determinants. Of the 7978 living quarters (LQs), 58.3% were in urban areas. About 2.4%, 0.5% and 27.4% of LQs had non-improved water sources, non-improved toilet types and improper domestic waste disposal, respectively. Open burning was practiced by 26.1%. Water source was a problem for long houses (10.5%), squatters (8.5%) and shared houses (4.0%). Non-improved toilet types were 11.9% for squatters and 4.8% for shared houses. Improper domestic waste disposal practices were higher for occupants of village houses (64.2%), long houses (54.4%), single houses (45.8%) and squatters (35.6%). An increase in education or income level was associated with a decrease in improper domestic waste disposal methods. House type significantly affected water and sanitation after adjusting for the effects of other variables. Lower household income was associated with non-improved toilet types and improper domestic waste disposal. Lower education and rural location influenced domestic waste disposal. The water and toilet facilities in Malaysia were generally good, while domestic waste management practices could be improved. There remain pockets of communities with environmental challenges for the nation.
Identifying Food Deserts and People with Low Food Access, and Disparities in Dietary Habits and Health in Korea
Authors: Kim Sanghyo , Lee Kyei-Im , Heo Seong-Yoon , Noh Seung-Chul
Published: October 2020

This study aims to identify the regions and people with low food access (LFA) for Korea at the national level and to examine disparities in food consumption, dietary behavior, and health outcome for those regions and people. Based on the distance to the nearest grocery store from residence, the regions and people with LFA are identified through geographical information system (GIS) analysis. To examine disparities between the regions and people with LFA and without LFA, a consumer survey is conducted and data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and Community Health Survey are analyzed. This study found that there exists a serious access to food issue in Korea, especially for the aged. Moreover, there also exist significant disparities between the regions and people with and without LFA in the distance and one-way travel time to the grocery store that is mainly visited, frequency of offline/online grocery shopping, availability of various foods, dietary habits such as eating regularly, eating nutritionally balanced foods, and eating sufficient fruit/vegetable/whole grains, the acquisition and utilization of food-related information, and health outcomes. This study suggests that, to resolve such a serious food access problem, assistance policies, such as mobile grocery stores and lunch-box delivery, need to be activated in countries similar to Korea since this problem could potentially deteriorate the national medical finances as well as the regional and individual disparities.
“Don’t You Think It Is Violence Forcing Me to Have Sex While Not Happy?” Women’s Conceptualization of Enjoyable Sex and Sexual Intimate Partner Violence in Mwanza, Tanzania
Authors: Mchome Zaina , Mshana Gerry , Aloyce Diana , Peter Esther , Malibwa Donati , Dwarumpudi Annapoorna , Kapiga Saidi , Stöckl Heidi
Published: October 2020

Intimate partner violence is a recognized public health and development issue that is consistently and comparatively measured through women’s experience of physical and/or sexual acts by their partner. While physical intimate partner violence is covered by a wide range of behaviors, sexual intimate partner violence (SIPV) is often only measured through attempted or completed forced sex, ignoring less obvious forms of sexual intimate partner violence. We explored women’s conceptualizations of SIPV by conducting in-depth interviews with 18 Tanzanian women. Using a thematic approach, we identified key features of women’s sexual intimate relationships and their perceptions of them. The women clearly defined acts of positive sexual relationships that occurred with mutual consent and seduction and SIPV that included acts of forced sex and sex under the threat of violence. They also identified several acts that were crossing the line, whereby a discrepancy of views existed whether they constituted SIPV, such as having sex when out of the mood, sex being the duty of the wife, sex during the menses, requests for anal sex, having sex to not lose the husband, husband refusing sex and husband having other partners. Women in this study felt violated by a far wider range of sexual acts in their relationships. Future studies need to improve the measurement of sexual intimate partner violence to allow the collection of encompassing, yet comparable, data on this harmful phenomenon.
Flu Vaccinations in Pharmacies—A Review of Pharmacists Fighting Pandemics and Infectious Diseases
Authors: Czech Marcin , Balcerzak Marcin , Antczak Adam , Byliniak Michał , Piotrowska-Rutkowska Elżbieta , Drozd Mariola , Juszczyk Grzegorz , Religioni Urszula , Vaillancourt Regis , Merks Piotr
Published: October 2020

The phenomenon of population ageing observed over recent years involves growing healthcare needs and the limited staffing and financing of healthcare systems, and as such demands some functional changes in the healthcare model in many countries. This situation is particularly significant in the face of a pandemic, e.g., flu, and currently COVID-19.As well as social education, preventive vaccinations are the most effective method of fighting the infectious diseases posing a special threat to seniors. Despite this, the vaccination coverage level in most European countries is relatively low. This is largely due to patients having limited access to vaccinations. In some countries, implementing vaccinations in pharmacies and by authorized pharmacists has significantly improved vaccination coverage rates and herd immunity, while lowering the cost of treating infections and the resulting complications, as well as minimizing the phenomenon of inappropriate antibiotic therapies. This article presents the role of pharmacists in the prevention of infectious diseases, pointing out the measurable effects of engaging pharmacists in conducting preventive vaccinations, as well as analyzing the models of implementing and conducting vaccinations in pharmacies in selected countries, and depicting recommendations regarding vaccinations developed by international organizations. The presented data is used to suggest requirements for the implementation of preventive vaccinations in community pharmacies.
Hands-On Times, Adherence to Recommendations and Variance in Execution among Three Different CPR Algorithms: A Prospective Randomized Single-Blind Simulator-Based Trial
Authors: Rifai Sami , Sellmann Timur , Wetzchewald Dietmar , Schwager Heidrun , Tschan Franziska , Russo Sebastian G. , Marsch Stephan
Published: October 2020

Background: Alternative cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) algorithms, introduced to improve outcomes after cardiac arrest, have so far not been compared in randomized trials with established CPR guidelines. Methods: 286 physician teams were confronted with simulated cardiac arrests and randomly allocated to one of three versions of a CPR algorithm: (1) current International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) guidelines (“ILCOR”), (2) the cardiocerebral resuscitation (“CCR”) protocol (3 cycles of 200 uninterrupted chest compressions with no ventilation), or (3) a local interpretation of the current guidelines (“Arnsberg“, immediate insertion of a supraglottic airway and cycles of 200 uninterrupted chest compressions). The primary endpoint was percentage of hands-on time. Results: Median percentage of hands-on time was 88 (interquartile range (IQR) 6) in “ILCOR” teams, 90 (IQR 5) in “CCR” teams (p = 0.001 vs. “ILCOR”), and 89 (IQR 4) in “Arnsberg” teams (p = 0.032 vs. “ILCOR”; p = 0.10 vs. “CCR”). “ILCOR” teams delivered fewer chest compressions and deviated more from allocated targets than “CCR” and “Arnsberg” teams. “CCR” teams demonstrated the least within-team and between-team variance. Conclusions: Compared to current ILCOR guidelines, two alternative CPR algorithms advocating cycles of uninterrupted chest compressions resulted in very similar hands-on times, fewer deviations from targets, and less within-team and between-team variance in execution.
Development of the Digital Assessment of Precise Physical Activity (DAPPA) Tool for Older Adults
Authors: Essery Rosie , Denison-Day James , Grey Elisabeth , Priestley Emma , Bradbury Katherine , Mutrie Nanette , Western Max J.
Published: October 2020

Physical activity (PA) is central to maintaining health and wellbeing as we age. Valid, reliable measurement tools are vital for understanding, and evaluating PA. There are limited options for comprehensively, accurately and affordably measuring older adults’ PA at scale at present. We aimed to develop a digital PA measurement tool specifically for adults aged 65+ using a person-based approach. We collated evidence from target users, field experts and the relevant literature to learn how older adults comprehend PA and would accept a digital tool. Findings suggest that older adults’ PA is often integrated into their daily life activities and that commonly applied terminology (e.g., moderate and vigorous) can be difficult to interpret. We also found that there is increasing familiarity with digital platforms amongst older adults, and that technological simplicity is valued. These findings informed the development of a digital tool that asks users to report their activities across key PA domains and dimensions from the previous 7-days. Users found the tool easy to navigate and comprehensive in terms of activity reporting. However, real-world usability testing revealed that users struggled with seven-day recall. Further work will address the identified issues, including creating a single-day reporting option, before commencing work to validate this new tool.
A Comparative Study on the Effect of Task Specific Training on Right Versus Left Chronic Stroke Patients
Authors: Alwhaibi Reem , Mahmoud Noha , Zakaria Hoda , Badawy Wanees , Elzanaty Mahmoud , Ragab Walaa , Benjadid Maher , Al Awaji Nisreen , Elserougy Hager
Published: October 2020

Functional impairment of the upper limb (UL) after stroke is a great problem. Finding methods that can improve UL function after stroke is a major concern to all medical service providers. This study was intended to compare the effect of upper limb task specific training (TST) on brain excitability of the affected hemisphere and motor function improvements in patients with left and right stroke. Forty male patients with mild impairment of UL functions were divided into two equal groups; G1 consisted of patients with left hemisphere affection (right side stroke) while G2 consisted of patients with right hemisphere affection (left side stroke). All patients received TST for the affected UL for one hour, three sessions per week for six consecutive weeks. Evaluation was performed twice, pre-, and post-treatment. Outcome measures used were Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and Box and Block Test (BBT) as measures of UL motor function and Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG) of motor and sensory areas of the affected hemisphere as a measure of brain reorganization post-stroke. Both groups showed improvement in motor function of the affected UL measured by WMFT and BBT with reported significant difference between them. G1 showed greater improvement in motor function of the affected UL post-treatment compared to G2. Additionally, there was a significant increase in peak frequency of motor and sensory areas with higher and significant excitability in G1 only. These findings imply that brain reorganization in the left hemisphere responded more to TST compared to the right hemisphere. Based on findings of the current study, we can recommend adding TST to the physical therapy program in stroke patients with left hemisphere lesions.
Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2) Mediates Glucolipotoxicity-Induced Apoptosis in β-Cells
Authors: Dahlby Tina , Simon Christian , Backe Marie Balslev , Dahllöf Mattias Salling , Holson Edward , Wagner Bridget K. , Böni-Schnetzler Marianne , Marzec Michal Tomasz , Lundh Morten , Mandrup-Poulsen Thomas
Published: October 2020

Selective inhibition of histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) prevents glucolipotoxicity-induced β-cell dysfunction and apoptosis by alleviation of proapoptotic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-signaling, but the precise molecular mechanisms of alleviation are unexplored. By unbiased microarray analysis of the β-cell gene expression profile of insulin-producing cells exposed to glucolipotoxicity in the presence or absence of a selective HDAC3 inhibitor, we identified Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) as the sole target candidate. β-Cells were protected against glucolipotoxicity-induced ER stress and apoptosis by EZH2 attenuation. Small molecule inhibitors of EZH2 histone methyltransferase activity rescued human islets from glucolipotoxicity-induced apoptosis. Moreover, EZH2 knockdown cells were protected against glucolipotoxicity-induced downregulation of the protective non-canonical Nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells (NFκB) pathway. We conclude that EZH2 deficiency protects from glucolipotoxicity-induced ER stress, apoptosis and downregulation of the non-canonical NFκB pathway, but not from insulin secretory dysfunction. The mechanism likely involves transcriptional regulation via EZH2 functioning as a methyltransferase and/or as a methylation-dependent transcription factor.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields Stimulate HIF-1α-Independent VEGF Release in 1321N1 Human Astrocytes Protecting Neuron-like SH-SY5Y Cells from Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation
Authors: Vincenzi Fabrizio , Pasquini Silvia , Setti Stefania , Salati Simona , Cadossi Ruggero , Borea Pier Andrea , Varani Katia
Published: October 2020

Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) are emerging as an innovative, non-invasive therapeutic option in different pathological conditions of the central nervous system, including cerebral ischemia. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of PEMFs in an in vitro model of human astrocytes, which play a key role in the events that occur following ischemia. 1321N1 cells were exposed to PEMFs or hypoxic conditions and the release of relevant neurotrophic and angiogenic factors, such as VEGF, EPO, and TGF-β1, was evaluated by means of ELISA or AlphaLISA assays. The involvement of the transcription factor HIF-1α was studied by using the specific inhibitor chetomin and its expression was measured by flow cytometry. PEMF exposure induced a time-dependent, HIF-1α-independent release of VEGF from 1321N1 cells. Astrocyte conditioned medium derived from PEMF-exposed astrocytes significantly reduced the oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced cell proliferation and viability decrease in the neuron-like cells SH-SY5Y. These findings contribute to our understanding of PEMFs action in neuropathological conditions and further corroborate their therapeutic potential in cerebral ischemia.
Nonanal Stimulates Growth Factors via Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate (cAMP) Signaling in Human Hair Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells
Authors: Park Soyoon , Kang Wesuk , Choi Dabin , Son Bomin , Park Taesun
Published: October 2020

Human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (DPCs) are a specialized population of cells located in the hair follicles and regulate hair growth and development, particularly by releasing numerous growth factors in response to various physiological conditions. In the present study, we aimed to test whether nonanal, a scent compound from plants, stimulated growth factors in DPCs and to delineate the underlying mechanisms involved. We found that nonanal promoted DPC proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, it also increased the intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels and the expression of various growth factor genes such as vascular endothelial growth factor, keratinocyte growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor 1. Furthermore, nonanal treatment stimulated DPC migration. Notably, the benefits of nonanal use were abrogated by cAMP inhibition. Our results reveal the potential of nonanal in preventing hair loss and suggest that its effects are cAMP-mediated in DPCs.
7-HYB, a Phenolic Compound Isolated from Myristica fragrans Houtt Increases Cell Migration, Osteoblast Differentiation, and Mineralization through BMP2 and β-catenin Signaling
Authors: Park Kyung-Ran , Kwon Yoon-Ju , Park Ji-Eun , Yun Hyung-Mun
Published: October 2020

The seeds (nutmegs) of Myristica fragrans Houtt have been used as popular spices and traditional medicine to treat a variety of diseases. A phenolic compound, ((7S)-8′-(benzo[3′,4′]dioxol-1′-yl)-7-hydroxypropyl)benzene-2,4-diol (7-HYB) was isolated from the seeds of M. fragrans. This study aimed to investigate the anabolic effects of 7-HYB in osteogenesis and bone mineralization. In the present study, 7-HYB promotes the early and late differentiation of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts. 7-HYB also elevated cell migration rate during differentiation of the preosteoblasts with the increased phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) including ERK1/2, p38, and JNK. In addition, 7-HYB induced the protein level of BMP2, the phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8, and the expression of RUNX2. 7-HYB also inhibited GSK3β and subsequently increased the level of β-catenin. However, in bone marrow macrophages (BMMs), 7-HYB has no biological effects in cell viability, TRAP-positive multinuclear osteoclasts, and gene expression (c-Fos and NF-ATc1) in receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis. Our findings suggest that 7-HYB plays an important role in osteoblast differentiation through the BMP2 and β-catenin signaling pathway. It also indicates that 7-HYB might have a therapeutic effect for the treatment of bone diseases such as osteoporosis and periodontitis.
Stem Cell-Based Therapies for Parkinson Disease
Authors: Liu Zhaohui , Cheung Hoi-Hung
Published: October 2020

Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurological movement disorder resulting primarily from damage to and degeneration of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway. The pathway consists of neural populations in the substantia nigra that project to the striatum of the brain where they release dopamine. Diagnosis of PD is based on the presence of impaired motor features such as asymmetric or unilateral resting tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity. Nonmotor features including cognitive impairment, sleep disorders, and autonomic dysfunction are also present. No cure for PD has been discovered, and treatment strategies focus on symptomatic management through restoration of dopaminergic activity. However, proposed cell replacement therapies are promising because midbrain dopaminergic neurons have been shown to restore dopaminergic neurotransmission and functionally rescue the dopamine-depleted striatum. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of neurodegeneration in PD and discuss the development of new therapeutic strategies that have led to the initiation of exploratory clinical trials. We focus on the applications of stem cells for the treatment of PD and discuss how stem cell research has contributed to an understanding of PD, predicted the efficacy of novel neuroprotective therapeutics, and highlighted what we believe to be the critical areas for future research.
Putative Origins of Cell-Free DNA in Humans: A Review of Active and Passive Nucleic Acid Release Mechanisms
Authors: Grabuschnig Stefan , Bronkhorst Abel Jacobus , Holdenrieder Stefan , Rosales Rodriguez Ingund , Schliep Klaus Peter , Schwendenwein Daniel , Ungerer Vida , Sensen Christoph Wilhelm
Published: October 2020

Through various pathways of cell death, degradation, and regulated extrusion, partial or complete genomes of various origins (e.g., host cells, fetal cells, and infiltrating viruses and microbes) are continuously shed into human body fluids in the form of segmented cell-free DNA (cfDNA) molecules. While the genetic complexity of total cfDNA is vast, the development of progressively efficient extraction, high-throughput sequencing, characterization via bioinformatics procedures, and detection have resulted in increasingly accurate partitioning and profiling of cfDNA subtypes. Not surprisingly, cfDNA analysis is emerging as a powerful clinical tool in many branches of medicine. In addition, the low invasiveness of longitudinal cfDNA sampling provides unprecedented access to study temporal genomic changes in a variety of contexts. However, the genetic diversity of cfDNA is also a great source of ambiguity and poses significant experimental and analytical challenges. For example, the cfDNA population in the bloodstream is heterogeneous and also fluctuates dynamically, differs between individuals, and exhibits numerous overlapping features despite often originating from different sources and processes. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the determining variables that impact the properties of cfDNA is crucial, however, thus far, is largely lacking. In this work we review recent and historical research on active vs. passive release mechanisms and estimate the significance and extent of their contribution to the composition of cfDNA.
An Earliest Endosymbiont, Wolbachia massiliensis sp. nov., Strain PL13 from the Bed Bug (Cimex hemipterus), Type Strain of a New Supergroup T
Authors: Laidoudi Younes , Levasseur Anthony , Medkour Hacène , Maaloum Mossaab , Ben Khedher Mariem , Sambou Masse , Bassene Hubert , Davoust Bernard , Fenollar Florence , Raoult Didier , Mediannikov Oleg
Published: October 2020

The symbiotic Wolbachia are the most sophisticated mutualistic bacterium among all insect-associated microbiota. Wolbachia-insect relationship fluctuates from the simple facultative/parasitic to an obligate nutritional-mutualistic association as it was the case of the bedbug-Wolbachia from Cimexlectularius. Understanding this association may help in the control of associated arthropods. Genomic data have proven to be reliable tools in resolving some aspects of these symbiotic associations. Although, Wolbachia appear to be fastidious or uncultivated bacteria which strongly limited their study. Here we proposed Drosophila S2 cell line for the isolation and culture model to study Wolbachia strains. We therefore isolated and characterized a novel Wolbachia strain associated with the bedbug Cimexhemipterus, designated as wChem strain PL13, and proposed Wolbachiamassiliensis sp. nov. strain wChem-PL13 a type strain of this new species from new supergroup T. Phylogenetically, T-supergroup was close to F and S-supergroups from insects and D-supergroup from filarial nematodes. We determined the 1,291,339-bp genome of wChem-PL13, which was the smallest insect-associated Wolbachia genomes. Overall, the wChem genome shared 50% of protein coding genes with the other insect-associated facultative Wolbachia strains. These findings highlight the diversity of Wolbachia genotypes as well as the Wolbachia-host relationship among Cimicinae subfamily. The wChem provides folate and riboflavin vitamins on which the host depends, while the bacteria had a limited translation mechanism suggesting its strong dependence to its hosts. However, the clear-cut distinction between mutualism and parasitism of the wChem in C. hemipterus cannot be yet ruled out.
Alpha-Carbonic Anhydrases from Hydrothermal Vent Sources as Potential Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Agents: In Silico Sequence, Structure and Dynamics Analyses
Authors: Manyumwa Colleen , Emameh Reza , Tastan Bishop Özlem
Published: October 2020

With the increase in CO2 emissions worldwide and its dire effects, there is a need to reduce CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere. Alpha-carbonic anhydrases (α-CAs) have been identified as suitable sequestration agents. This study reports the sequence and structural analysis of 15 α-CAs from bacteria, originating from hydrothermal vent systems. Structural analysis of the multimers enabled the identification of hotspot and interface residues. Molecular dynamics simulations of the homo-multimers were performed at 300 K, 363 K, 393 K and 423 K to unearth potentially thermostable α-CAs. Average betweenness centrality (BC) calculations confirmed the relevance of some hotspot and interface residues. The key residues responsible for dimer thermostability were identified by comparing fluctuating interfaces with stable ones, and were part of conserved motifs. Crucial long-lived hydrogen bond networks were observed around residues with high BC values. Dynamic cross correlation fortified the relevance of oligomerization of these proteins, thus the importance of simulating them in their multimeric forms. A consensus of the simulation analyses used in this study suggested high thermostability for the α-CA from Nitratiruptor tergarcus. Overall, our novel findings enhance the potential of biotechnology applications through the discovery of alternative thermostable CO2 sequestration agents and their potential protein design.
The Emerging and Diverse Roles of Bis(monoacylglycero) Phosphate Lipids in Cellular Physiology and Disease
Authors: Showalter Megan R. , Berg Anastasia L. , Nagourney Alexander , Heil Hailey , Carraway Kermit L. , Fiehn Oliver
Published: October 2020

Although understudied relative to many phospholipids, accumulating evidence suggests that bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate (BMP) is an important class of regulatory lipid that plays key roles in lysosomal integrity and function. BMPs are rare in most mammalian tissues, comprising only a few percent of total cellular lipid content, but are elevated in cell types such as macrophages that rely heavily on lysosomal function. BMPs are markedly enriched in endosomal and lysosomal vesicles compared to other organelles and membranous structures, and their unique sn-1:sn-1′ stereoconfiguration may confer stability within the hydrolytic lysosomal environment. BMP-enriched vesicles serve in endosomal-lysosomal trafficking and function as docking structures for the activation of lysosomal hydrolytic enzymes, notably those involved in the catabolic breakdown of sphingolipids. BMP levels are dysregulated in lysosomal storage disorders, phospholipidosis, metabolic diseases, liver and kidney diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. However, whether BMP alteration is a mediator or simply a marker of pathological states is unclear. Likewise, although BMP acyl chain composition may be altered with disease states, the functional significance of specific BMP species remains to be resolved. Newly developed tools for untargeted lipidomic analysis, together with a deeper understanding of enzymes mediating BMP synthesis and degradation, will help shed further light on the functional significance of BMPs in cellular physiology and pathology.
Intra-Individual Behavioural Variability: A Trait under Genetic Control
Authors: Henriksen Rie , Höglund Andrey , Fogelholm Jesper , Abbey-Lee Robin , Johnsson Martin , Dingemanse Niels J. , Wright Dominic
Published: October 2020

When individuals are measured more than once in the same context they do not behave in exactly the same way each time. The degree of predictability differs between individuals, with some individuals showing low levels of variation around their behavioural mean while others show high levels of variation. This intra-individual variability in behaviour has received much less attention than between-individual variability in behaviour, and very little is known about the underlying mechanisms that affect this potentially large but understudied component of behavioural variation. In this study, we combine standardized behavioural tests in a chicken intercross to estimate intra-individual behavioural variability with a large-scale genomics analysis to identify genes affecting intra-individual behavioural variability in an avian population. We used a variety of different anxiety-related behavioural phenotypes for this purpose. Our study shows that intra-individual variability in behaviour has a direct genetic basis that is largely unique compared to the genetic architecture for the standard behavioural measures they are based on (at least in the detected quantitative trait locus). We identify six suggestive candidate genes that may underpin differences in intra-individual behavioural variability, with several of these candidates having previously been linked to behaviour and mental health. These findings demonstrate that intra-individual variability in behaviour appears to be a heritable trait in and of itself on which evolution can act.