bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resistance and Representation in a Wildland–Urban Interface Fuels Treatment Conflict: The Case of the Forsythe II Project in the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest
Authors: Brenkert-Smith Hannah , Jahn Jody L. S. , Vance Eric A. , Ahumada Juan
Published: December 2019

Land treatments in wildland–urban interface (WUI) areas are highly visible and subject to public scrutiny and possible opposition. This study examines a contested vegetation treatment—Forsythe II—in a WUI area of the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest in Colorado. An initial phase of the research found vocal opposition to Forsythe II. The purpose of the present study was to understand how well the resistance narrative represented the broader community in the WUI area affected by the Forsythe II treatments. More than one third (36%) of households responded to a census survey focused on Forsythe II, demographics, wildfire risk perceptions, and variables associated with generic land management activities and place attachment. Overall, while public opposition to Forsythe II has resulted in a nearly 25% reduction in the project’s size, the survey data demonstrate that just over a quarter of respondents (27%) opposed or strongly opposed the Forsythe II project, and the majority of survey respondents reported broad support for forest management approaches similar to those detailed in the project plans. Notably, a similar portion (28%) did not report an opinion on the project. Results include a systematic comparison of opinion/no opinion respondents.
Identification of Appropriate Reference Genes for Normalizing miRNA Expression in Citrus Infected by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri
Authors: Lyu Shiheng , Yu Ying , Xu Shirong , Cai Weiwei , Chen Guixin , Chen Jianjun , Pan Dongming , She Wenqin
Published: December 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) is one of the most common methods used for quantification of miRNA expression, and the levels of expression are normalized by comparing with reference genes. Thus, the selection of reference genes is critically important for accurate quantification. The present study was intended to identify appropriate miRNA reference genes for normalizing the level of miRNA expression in Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck and Citrus reticulata Blanco infected by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri, which caused citrus canker disease. Five algorithms (Delta Ct, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and RefFinder) were used for screening reference genes, and two quantification approaches, poly(A) extension RT-qPCR and stem-loop RT-qPCR, were used to determine the most appropriate method for detecting expression patterns of miRNA. An overall comprehensive ranking output derived from the multi-algorithms showed that poly(A)-tailed miR162-3p/miR472 were the best reference gene combination for miRNA RT-qPCR normalization in citrus canker research. Candidate reference gene expression profiles determined by poly(A) RT-qPCR were more consistent in the two citrus species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic comparison of two miRNA quantification methods for evaluating reference genes. These results highlight the importance of rigorously assessing candidate reference genes and clarify some contradictory results in miRNA research on citrus.
Vulpinic Acid Controls Stem Cell Fate toward Osteogenesis and Adipogenesis
Authors: Yi Sang Ah , Nam Ki Hong , Kim Sil , So Hae Min , Ryoo Rhim , Han Jeung-Whan , Kim Ki Hyun , Lee Jaecheol
Published: December 2019

Vulpinic acid, a naturally occurring methyl ester of pulvinic acid, has been reported to exert anti-fungal, anti-cancer, and anti-oxidative effects. However, its metabolic action has not been implicated yet. Here, we show that vulpinic acid derived from a mushroom, Pulveroboletus ravenelii controls the cell fate of mesenchymal stem cells and preadipocytes by inducing the acetylation of histone H3 and α-tubulin, respectively. The treatment of 10T1/2 mesenchymal stem cells with vulpinic acid increased the expression of Wnt6, Wnt10a, and Wnt10b, which led to osteogenesis inhibiting the adipogenic lineage commitment, through the upregulation of H3 acetylation. By contrast, treatment with vulpinic acid promoted the terminal differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes into mature adipocytes. In this process, the increase in acetylated tubulin was accompanied, while acetylated H3 was not altered. As excessive generation of adipocytes occurs, the accumulation of lipid drops was not concentrated, but dispersed into a number of adipocytes. Consistently, the expressions of lipolytic genes were upregulated and inflammatory factors were downregulated in adipocytes exposed to vulpinic acid during adipogenesis. These findings reveal the multiple actions of vulpinic acid in two stages of differentiation, promoting the osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells and decreasing hypertrophic adipocytes, which can provide experimental evidence for the novel metabolic advantages of vulpinic acid.
Gene Profiling in the Adipose Fin of Salmonid Fishes Supports Its Function as a Flow Sensor
Authors: Koll Raphael , Martorell Ribera Joan , Brunner Ronald M. , Rebl Alexander , Goldammer Tom
Published: December 2019

In stock enhancement and sea-ranching procedures, the adipose fin of hundreds of millions of salmonids is removed for marking purposes annually. However, recent studies proved the significance of the adipose fin as a flow sensor and attraction feature. In the present study, we profiled the specific expression of 20 neuron- and glial cell-marker genes in the adipose fin and seven other tissues (including dorsal and pectoral fin, brain, skin, muscle, head kidney, and liver) of the salmonid species rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss and maraena whitefish Coregonus maraena. Moreover, we measured the transcript abundance of genes coding for 15 mechanoreceptive channel proteins from a variety of mechanoreceptors known in vertebrates. The overall expression patterns indicate the presence of the entire repertoire of neurons, glial cells and receptor proteins on the RNA level. This quantification suggests that the adipose fin contains considerable amounts of small nerve fibers with unmyelinated or slightly myelinated axons and most likely mechanoreceptive potential. The findings are consistent for both rainbow trout and maraena whitefish and support a previous hypothesis about the innervation and potential flow sensory function of the adipose fin. Moreover, our data suggest that the resection of the adipose fin has a stronger impact on the welfare of salmonid fish than previously assumed.
Pathogenicity Reclassification of RPE65 Missense Variants Related to Leber Congenital Amaurosis and Early-Onset Retinal Dystrophy
Authors: Motta Fabiana , Martin Renan , Porto Fernanda , Wohler Elizabeth , Resende Rosane , Gomes Caio , Pesquero João , Sallum Juliana
Published: December 2019

A challenge in molecular diagnosis and genetic counseling is the interpretation of variants of uncertain significance. Proper pathogenicity classification of new variants is important for the conclusion of molecular diagnosis and the medical management of patient treatments. The purpose of this study was to reclassify two RPE65 missense variants, c.247T>C (p.Phe83Leu) and c.560G>A (p.Gly187Glu), found in Brazilian families. To achieve this aim, we reviewed the sequencing data of a 224-gene retinopathy panel from 556 patients (513 families) with inherited retinal dystrophies. Five patients with p.Phe83Leu and seven with p.Gly187Glu were selected and their families investigated. To comprehend the pathogenicity of these variants, we evaluated them based on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology (ACMG/AMP) classification guidelines. Initially, these RPE65 variants met only three pathogenic criteria: (i) absence or low frequency in the population, (ii) several missense pathogenic RPE65 variants, and (iii) 15 out of 16 lines of computational evidence supporting them as damaging, which together allowed the variants to be classified as uncertain significance. Two other pieces of evidence were accepted after further analysis of these Brazilian families: (i) p.Phe83Leu and p.Gly187Glu segregate with childhood retinal dystrophy within families, and (ii) their prevalence in Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA)/early-onset retinal dystrophy (EORD) patients can be considered higher than in other inherited retinal dystrophy patients. Therefore, these variants can now be classified as likely pathogenic according to ACMG/AMP classification guidelines.
Effects of Substrate-Binding Site Residues on the Biochemical Properties of a Tau Class Glutathione S-Transferase from Oryza sativa
Authors: Yang Xue , Wei Jinchi , Wu Zhihai , Gao Jie
Published: December 2019

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs)—an especially plant-specific tau class of GSTs—are key enzymes involved in biotic and abiotic stress responses. To improve the stress resistance of crops via the genetic modification of GSTs, we predicted the amino acids present in the GSH binding site (G-site) and hydrophobic substrate-binding site (H-site) of OsGSTU17, a tau class GST in rice. We then examined the enzyme activity, substrate specificity, enzyme kinetics and thermodynamic stability of the mutant enzymes. Our results showed that the hydrogen bonds between Lys42, Val56, Glu68, and Ser69 of the G-site and glutathione were essential for enzyme activity and thermal stability. The hydrophobic side chains of amino acids of the H-site contributed to enzyme activity toward 4-nitrobenzyl chloride but had an inhibitory effect on enzyme activity toward 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene and cumene hydroperoxide. Different amino acids of the H-site had different effects on enzyme activity toward a different substrate, 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole. Moreover, Leu112 and Phe162 were found to inhibit the catalytic efficiency of OsGSTU17 to 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole, while Pro16, Leu112, and Trp165 contributed to structural stability. The results of this research enhance the understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of tau class GSTs to improve the abiotic stress resistance of crops.
Orkney Ecologies
Authors: Ford Rebecca
Published: December 2019

Inspired by Felix Guattari’s Three Ecologies ([1989] 2000), this article explores recent Orkney literature with an environmental focus (Working the Map—ed. J & F Cumming and M. MacInnes; Ebban an’ Flowan—Finlay, A., Watts, L. and Peebles, A.; The Outrun—A. Liptrot; Swimming With Seals—V. Whitworth) in terms of Orkney ecologies—which are always personal, environmental and cultural. Informed by fieldwork carried out in Orkney, looking at discourse around the development of marine renewable energy in the islands, it argues for the use of ecological dialogism, an approach to language and communication which recognises meaning-making as embodied and emergent within a meshwork (Ingold 2011) of lived experience. It explores the texts as part of an ecology of meaning-making within the naturalcultural (Haraway 2007) world, in which environment, social relations and human subjectivity are inextricably entangled. In this view, literary texts can be approached, not as isolated examples of individual creative expression, but as moments of emergent meaning-making in the dialogue between individual, cultural and environmental ecologies, reaching beyond the page into a living meshwork, where we can think in terms of ‘Ecology as Text, Text as Ecology’ (Morton 2010). These Orkney ecologies entangle the natural, personal, cultural and technological, through and as, stories, emphasising interdependence and care for both human and more-than-human relationships. Such moments of connection offer hope of new narrative possibilities with which to face the uncertainty of an Anthropocene future.
Lake Volume Data Analyses: A Deep Look into the Shrinking and Expansion Patterns of Lakes Azuei and Enriquillo, Hispaniola
Authors: Moknatian Mahrokh , Piasecki Michael
Published: December 2019

This paper presents the development of an evenly spaced volume time series for Lakes Azuei and Enriquillo both located on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. The time series is derived from an unevenly spaced Landsat imagery data set which is then exposed to several imputation methods to construct the gap filled uniformly-spaced time series so it can be subjected to statistical analyses methods. The volume time series features both gradual and sudden changes the latter of which is attributed to North Atlantic cyclone activity. Relevant cyclone activity is defined as an event passing within 80 km and having regional monthly rainfall averages higher than a threshold value of 87 mm causing discontinuities in the lake responses. Discontinuities are accounted for in the imputation algorithm by dividing the time series into two sub-sections: Before/after the event. Using leave-p-out cross-validation and computing the NRMSE index the Stineman interpolation proves to be the best algorithm among 15 different imputation alternatives that were tested. The final time series features 16-day intervals which is subsequently resampled into one with monthly time steps. Data analyses of the monthly volume change time series show Lake Enriquillo’s seasonal periodicity in its behavior and also its sensitivity due to the occurrence of storm events. Response times feature a growth pattern lasting for one to two years after an extreme event, followed by a shrinking pattern lasting 5–7 years returning the lake to its original state. While both lakes show a remarkable long term increase in size starting in 2005, Lake Azuei is different in that it is much less sensitive to storm events and instead shows a stronger response to just changing seasonal rainfall patterns.
Maternal Depression: Relationship to Food Insecurity and Preschooler Fruit/Vegetable Consumption
Authors: Ward Wendy L. , Swindle Taren M. , Kyzer Angela L. , Edge Nicola , Sumrall Jasmin , Whiteside-Mansell Leanne
Published: December 2019

Background: Maternal Depression (MD) has been implicated in the etiology of obesity. The present study investigated MD and both child fruit/vegetable consumption (FVC) and household food insecurity (FI) in an early childhood population. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Arkansas, United States, in 26 Head Start centers. Teachers obtained the Family Map (FM), an interview assessment tool used by Head Start staff to identify potential risk factors that affect child learning and development. The FM contains a two-item screener of parent depression—the Patient Health Questionaire-2, two questions about family FI, and two questions about FVC. The FM was completed in 693 households. Chi square analyses and logistic regressions utilizing adjusted and unadjusted odds ratios were utilized to compare differences in risk for children of mothers with no symptoms compared to mothers with low- or high-level depressive symptoms. Results: Children whose mothers had high MD were 2.90 (CI: 1.21–7.00) and 7.81 (CI: 3.71–16.45) times more likely to be at risk for low FVC and FI, respectively, compared to children of mothers with no MD. Similar findings but at lower magnitude were found for mothers with low symptoms of MD in comparison with mothers with no MD—both for Low FVC (1.57 times more likely; CI: 1.01–2.45) and FI (2.14 times more likely; CI: 1.28–3.58). The results presented are Odds Ratios from the multivariable adjusted models. Conclusions: Implications for the etiology of obesity, prevention/intervention efforts, and future research are offered, including recommended addition of maternal depression and household FI screening in early childhood programs.
Tuberculosis-Related Hospitalizations in a Low-Incidence Country: A Retrospective Analysis in Two Italian Infectious Diseases Wards
Authors: Campogiani Laura , Compagno Mirko , Coppola Luigi , Malagnino Vincenzo , Maffongelli Gaetano , Saraca Lavinia Maria , Francisci Daniela , Baldelli Franco , Fontana Carla , Grelli Sandro , Andreoni Massimo , Sotgiu Giovanni , Saderi Laura , Sarmati Loredana
Published: December 2019

In recent years, a decrease in the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) has been recorded worldwide. However, an increase in TB cases has been reported in foreign people living in low-incidence countries, with an increase in extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) in the western region of the world. In the present work, a retrospective study was conducted in two Italian infectious diseases wards to evaluate the clinical characteristics of TB admission in the time period 2013–2017. A significant increase in TB was shown in the study period: 166 (71% males) patients with TB were enrolled, with ~70% coming from outside Italy (30% from Africa, 25% from Europe, and 13% from Asia and South America). Compared to foreign people, Italians were significantly older (71.5 (interquartile range, IQR: 44.5–80.0) vs. 30 (IQR: 24–40) years; p < 0.0001) more immunocompromised (48% vs. 17%; p < 0.0001), and affected by comorbidities (44% vs. 14%; p < 0.0001). EPTB represented 37% of all forms of the disease, and it was more incident in subjects coming from Africa than in those coming from Europe (39.3% vs. 20%, respectively). In logistic regression analysis, being European was protective (odd ratio, OR (95% CI): 0.2 (0.1–0.6); p = 0.004) against the development of EPTB forms. In conclusion, an increase in the rate of TB diagnosis was documented in two Italian reference centers in the period 2013–2017, with 39% of EPTB diagnosed in patients from outside Europe.
Effects of a Nicotine Fact Sheet on Perceived Risk of Nicotine and E-Cigarettes and Intentions to Seek Information About and Use E-Cigarettes
Authors: Yang Bo , Owusu Daniel , Popova Lucy
Published: December 2019

We examined how a nicotine fact sheet influenced smokers’ beliefs about nicotine and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), a potentially less harmful alternative to conventional cigarettes. In an exploratory online experiment, 756 US adult current and recent former smokers (quit in the past 2 years) were randomized to view a nicotine fact sheet or control messages (bottled water ads). Effects of the nicotine fact sheet on perceived nicotine addictiveness, nicotine risk, comparative risk of e-cigarettes, and dual use intentions were analyzed using log-Poisson regression with robust error. Linear regression analyzed effects on perceived absolute risk and switching and information seeking intentions about e-cigarettes. Compared to control, the nicotine fact sheet doubled the probability of disagreeing that nicotine is the main cause of smoking-related disease (26.2% vs. 12.7%, RR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.51, 2.82, p < 0.001). However, nearly three quarters of participants viewing the nicotine fact sheet still thought that nicotine is the main cause of smoking-related disease. The nicotine fact sheet increased smokers’ intentions to seek information about e-cigarettes (b = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.15, 0.74, p = 0.003). We did not find evidence suggesting unintended consequences of the nicotine fact sheet on smokers’ e-cigarettes risk perceptions or use intentions (e.g., increased dual use intentions or reduced absolute e-cigarette risk perception).
Cadmium Induces Acute Liver Injury by Inhibiting Nrf2 and the Role of NF-κB, NLRP3, and MAPKs Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhu Yaohui , Lu Zhenxiang , Guo Weina , Tumen Bayaer , He Yalan , Chen Chao , Hu Shanshan , Xu Kangzhi , Wang Yan , Li Lei , Li Shenghe
Published: December 2019

Acute Cadmium (Cd) exposure usually induces hepatotoxicity. It is well known that oxidative stress and inflammation causes Cd-induced liver injury. However, the effect of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in Cd-induced liver injury is not completely understood. In this study, we observed Cd-induced liver damage and the potential contribution of Nrf2, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), Nod-like receptor 3 (NLRP3), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways. Changes in serum transaminases and proinflammatory cytokines expression showed that Cd could induce acute hepatotoxicity. Moreover, Nrf2 and its downstream heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) were inhibited by Cd exposure, and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), the inhibitory protein of Nrf2, was increased. Furthermore, NF-κB, NLRP3, and MAPKs signaling pathways were all activated by Cd intoxication. In conclusion, the inhibition of Nrf2, HO-1, and the activation of NF-κB, NLRP3, and MAPKs all contribute to Cd-induced liver injury.
Patient–Physician Interaction and Trust in Online Health Community: The Role of Perceived Usefulness of Health Information and Services
Authors: Peng Yuxin , Yin Pingping , Deng Zhaohua , Wang Ruoxi
Published: December 2019

Background: In recent years, China has witnessed a surge in medical disputes, including many widely reported violent riots, attacks, and protests in hospitals. Asymmetric information between patient and physicians is one of the most critical enablers in this phenomenon, but the Web has become the primary resource for Chinese Internet applications to learn about health information and could potentially play a role in this pathway to patient–physician interaction and patient–physician trust. While considerable attention has been paid in some countries, there are few researches about China’s situation for this issue. The purpose of this quantitative study was to examine the influence of online health information and the online guidance of doctors in patient health information literacy on patient–physician interaction and patient–physician trust in China. Methods: A web-based survey was conducted to collect data from online applications with health problems. A structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data to test the hypotheses. A total of 446 participants from the Tongji Hospital in Wuhan and Huazhong University of Science and Technology hospital participated in the study. Results: Our analysis shows that the usefulness of online health information and the online guidance of doctors both significantly influence the trust of the patient toward physicians and interaction with physicians. Furthermore, the patient–physician interaction also has a significant impact on the patient–physician trust. Conclusions: There are many studies on the influence of online health information on the doctor–patient relationship, whereas a little research has examined this relationship between health information online support from doctors and patient–physician interaction by quantitative empirical analysis. This study also explores the online guidance role of doctors and whether doctor–patient communication will affect the trust of doctors and patients. The practical implications of this study include an improved understanding of the function of online health information and potential impacts regarding the interaction with physicians and trust toward physicians that can be used to resolve conflicts between doctors and patients.
Is Post-Reprocessing Microbiological Surveillance of Duodenoscopes Effective in Reducing the Potential Risk in Transmitting Pathogens?
Authors: Cristina Maria Luisa , Sartini Marina , Schinca Elisa , Ottria Gianluca , Dupont Chiara , Bova Palmira , Coccia Gianni , Casini Beatrice , Spagnolo Anna Maria
Published: December 2019

Background: The use of a contaminated endoscope may lead to infections due to the transmission of potential pathogens from patient to patient. Methods: Post-reprocessing microbiological surveillance of four duodenoscopes was carried out over a three-year period in the Digestive Endoscopy Unit of an Italian hospital. Sampling of duodenoscopes was performed after the devices have been reprocessed. The initial phase of surveillance involved the contemporary evaluation of the four duodenoscopes; afterwards, microbiological surveillance proceeded at monthly intervals. Results: The initial phase of surveillance revealed that three duodenoscopes presented a high level of contamination with “high-concern” micro-organisms, some of which were multi-drug-resistant. The highest values of contamination regarded the species P. aeruginosa (2500 CFU/duodenoscope), K. pneumoniae (2580 CFU/duodenoscope), and A. baumannii (2600 CFU/duodenoscope). Since the cultures were repeatedly positive on three successive occasions, the contaminated devices were sent to the manufacturer for evaluation. Audits were carried out with the personnel responsible for reprocessing, which was aimed to optimize the procedures used, and subsequently, only one case of non-conformity was found. Conclusions: Our study highlighted both the potential risk of transmitting pathogens through the use of duodenoscopes and the importance of implementing a well-structured system of microbiological surveillance and training programs, in order to reduce the risk of spreading retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-associated infections.
Impact of Recreational Sports Activities on Metabolic Syndrome Components in Adolescents
Authors: Faria Fernanda , Howe Cheryl , Faria Ricardo , Andaki Alynne , Marins João Carlos , Amorim Paulo Roberto
Published: December 2019

We investigated the impact of a sports activities program on metabolic syndrome (MetS) components and pre-MetS among adolescents. Blood samples, blood pressure, weight, height, body mass index, waist circumference, body fat percentage, frequency of food consumption, daily time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sedentary behavior (SB) of 92 male adolescents aged 14–18 years (16.07 ± 0.93) were evaluated. From this initial sample, 36 participants (39.1%) were diagnosed with pre-MetS or MetS and were invited to participate in the intervention program. Twelve individuals diagnosed with pre-MetS or MetS agreed to participate in a recreational sports activities program lasting 14 weeks. The pre- and post-sport program comparison showed a reduction in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and non-high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and an increase in HDL and MVPA time in the intervention group. Sports activities accounted for 42% of the MVPA daily recommendation, and at the end of the intervention period, only seven subjects maintained a positive diagnosis for pre-MetS or MetS. This study showed that recreational sports activities had a significant impact on the lipid profile.
Consumer Preferences for Traceable Food with Different Functions of Safety Information Attributes: Evidence from a Menu-Based Choice Experiment in China
Authors: Hou Bo , Hou Jing , Wu Linhai
Published: December 2019

It is of great value to study consumer demand for safe foods in promoting the development of a safe food market system and the reduction of food safety risks, as well as foodborne diseases in China. This paper takes traceable pork as an example and constructs food safety information attributes with ex ante quality verification and ex post traceability. Interactions between safety information attributes and the consumer’s response to cost-driven price changes were investigated for 345 consumers in Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, China, using a menu-based choice (MBC) experiment and multivariate probit (MVP) model as analysis tools. The results suggest that food safety information attributes are important to consumers, as the consumers preferred pork quality inspection attributes to pre-incident quality assurance functions. Therefore, it is beneficial to include pork quality inspection attributes in the traceable pork attribute systems during the initial construction of traceable pork markets in China. Attribute price was an important factor that affected consumers’ choice of information attributes. When customization cannot be achieved, a profile composed of elastic pork quality inspection attribute and supply chain–internal traceability attribute would be the most preferred traceable pork product in the market based on the need of building a fully functional traceable food system and reducing food safety risks. In addition, there was a strong substitution relationship between different information attributes, and there was heterogeneity in consumers’ choice of information attributes. Therefore, the government should support manufacturers in producing multi-level safe food to meet diverse consumer demand.
Stress Recovery of Campus Street Trees as Visual Stimuli on Graduate Students in Autumn
Authors: Guo Li-Na , Zhao Ren-Lin , Ren Ai-Hua , Niu Li-Xin , Zhang Yan-Long
Published: December 2019

Human stress recovery response to landscapes is under discussion in Chinese settings. The present study aimed to clarify the stress recovery effects of campus street trees on graduate students in autumn. A total of 150 participants (23.75 ± 1.01 years old) completed the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and were then randomly assigned to view one of five virtual environments, including the street trees Sophora japonica, Ginkgo biloba, Platanus acerifolia, Koelreuteria paniculata, and the indoor environment (control). Physiological responses were measured by R-R interval and electroencephalography (EEG). Psychological responses were examined through the state version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) and the Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS). Results showed that R-R intervals significantly increased while viewing all street trees. Both alpha and beta brainwave activities while viewing S. japonica and G. biloba were remarkably higher than those while viewing P. acerifolia and K. paniculata. The STAI-S scores significantly decreased, and the positive PRS scores were registered after viewing street trees. We concluded that a brief virtual visual experience of campus street trees in autumn has stress recovery effects on graduate students, and the different levels of stress recovery are associated with different types of street trees.
Assessment of Nutritional Status and Dietary Pattern of a Rural Adult Population in Dry Zone, Sri Lanka
Authors: Abeywickrama Hansani Madushika , Wimalasiri K. M. Swarna , Koyama Yu , Uchiyama Mieko , Shimizu Utako , Chandrajith Rohana , Nanayakkara Nishantha
Published: December 2019

The objective of this work was to describe average dietary intake, physical activity (PA) and nutritional status of the adult population of Girandurukotte, Sri Lanka. A cross-sectional survey, including one 24-h dietary recall, international physical activity questionnaire and anthropometric measurements was conducted in a representative sample of 120 adults. Mean (SD) for body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist to hip ratio (WHR) and waist to height ratio (WHtR) were 23.06(4.20) kg/m2, 85.6(9.5) cm, 0.95(0.05) and 0.55(0.07), respectively. Significant differences were observed in height, body fat %, body muscle %, hip circumference, WHR, WHtR, fat mass index and hand grip strength between men and women (p < 0.05). Among the study group, 35.8% were overweight, 13.3% were obese and 11.7% were underweight. Central obesity was observed in 59.2%, 97.5% and 74.2% of adults by WC, WHR and WHtR, respectively. Mean (SD) dietary diversity score and dietary diversity score with portions were 4.77(1.28) and 4.09(1.32), respectively. Mean daily intake of protein, fruits, vegetables and dairy were well below the national recommendations. Despite the higher PA level, nearly half the population was overweight and obese and the majority was centrally obese. None of the dietary diversity scores met the optimal levels, suggesting poor quality and quantity of the diet.
Important Considerations for the Treatment of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and Heart Failure from a Diabetologist’s Perspective: Lessons Learned from Cardiovascular Outcome Trials
Authors: Koliaki Chrysi , Katsilambros Nicholas
Published: December 2019

Heart failure (HF) represents an important cardiovascular complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) associated with substantial morbidity and mortality, and is emphasized in recent cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) as a critical outcome for patients with T2DM. Treatment of T2DM in patients with HF can be challenging, considering that these patients are usually elderly, frail and have extensive comorbidities, most importantly chronic kidney disease. The complexity of medical regimens, the high risk clinical characteristics of patients and the potential of HF therapies to interfere with glucose metabolism, and conversely the emerging potential of some antidiabetic agents to modulate HF outcomes, are only some of the challenges that need to be addressed in the framework of a team-based personalized approach. The presence of established HF or the high risk of developing HF in the future has influenced recent guideline recommendations and can guide therapeutic decision making. Metformin remains first-line treatment for overweight T2DM patients at moderate cardiovascular risk. Although not contraindicated, metformin is no longer considered as first-line therapy for patients with established HF or at risk for HF, since there is robust scientific evidence that treatment with other glucose-lowering agents such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) should be prioritized in this population due to their strong and remarkably consistent beneficial effects on HF outcomes.
Effect of Exergame Training and Detraining on Lower-Body Strength, Agility, and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Women with Fibromyalgia: Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Villafaina Santos , Borrega-Mouquinho Yolanda , Fuentes-García Juan Pedro , Collado-Mateo Daniel , Gusi Narcis
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of a 24 week exergame intervention and 24 weeks of detraining on lower-limb strength, agility, and cardiorespiratory fitness in women with fibromyalgia (FM). It was performed as a single-blinded randomized controlled trial of 55 women with FM. University facilities were used. The 24 week exergame intervention was focused on mobility, postural control, upper- and lower-limb coordination, aerobic fitness, and strength. Participants performed 120 min of exergaming per week, which was divided into two sessions. Twenty-four weeks after the end of the intervention, participants were re-evaluated. A chair–stand test, 10 step stair test, and six-minute walk test were conducted to assess lower-body strength, agility, and cardiorespiratory fitness, respectively. The exergame intervention significantly improved lower-limb strength and cardiorespiratory fitness. However, no significant effects on agility were observed. After the detraining period, lower-limb strength and agility returned to their baseline level, but improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness were sustained over time. Exergaming was therefore shown to be beneficial for physical fitness in people with FM. However, exergames had to be played regularly to maintain the benefits. This long-term intervention (24 weeks) may have changed the lifestyle of women with FM, which could explain why cardiorespiratory fitness improvements remained after the detraining period. Future research should focus on lifestyle changes after long-term interventions.
Immunohistochemical Analysis Revealed a Correlation between Musashi-2 and Cyclin-D1 Expression in Patients with Oral Squamous Cells Carcinoma
Authors: Troiano Giuseppe , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Botti Gerardo , Aquino Gabriella , Losito Nunzia Simona , Pedicillo Maria Carmela , Zhurakivska Khrystyna , Arena Claudia , Ciavarella Domenico , Mastrangelo Filiberto , Lo Russo Lucio , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Pannone Giuseppe
Published: December 2019

Aim: Musashi 2 (MSI2), which is an RNA-binding protein, plays a fundamental role in the oncogenesis of several cancers. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression of MSI2 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) and evaluate its correlation to clinic-pathological variables and prognosis. Materials and Methods: A bioinformatic analysis was performed on data downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The MSI2 expression data were analysed for their correlation with clinic-pathological and prognostic features. In addition, an immmunohistochemical evaluation of MSI2 expression on 108 OSCC samples included in a tissue microarray and 13 healthy mucosae samples was performed. Results: 241 patients’ data from TCGA were included in the final analysis. No DNA mutations were detected for the MSI2 gene, but a hyper methylated condition of the gene emerged. MSI2 mRNA expression correlated with Grading (p = 0.009) and overall survival (p = 0.045), but not with disease free survival (p = 0.549). Males presented a higher MSI2 mRNA expression than females. The immunohistochemical evaluation revealed a weak expression of MSI2 in both OSCC samples and in healthy oral mucosae. In addition, MSI2 expression directly correlated with Cyclin-D1 expression (p = 0.022). However, no correlation has been detected with prognostic outcomes (overall and disease free survival). Conclusions: The role of MSI2 expression in OSCC seems to be not so closely correlated with prognosis, as in other human neoplasms. The correlation with Cyclin-D1 expression suggests an indirect role that MSI2 might have in the proliferation of OSCC cells, but further studies are needed to confirm such results.
The Effect of Proline cis-trans Isomerization on the Folding of the C-Terminal SH2 Domain from p85
Authors: Troilo Francesca , Malagrinò Francesca , Visconti Lorenzo , Toto Angelo , Gianni Stefano
Published: December 2019

SH2 domains are protein domains that modulate protein–protein interactions through a specific interaction with sequences containing phosphorylated tyrosines. In this work, we analyze the folding pathway of the C-terminal SH2 domain of the p85 regulatory subunit of the protein PI3K, which presents a proline residue in a cis configuration in the loop between the βE and βF strands. By employing single and double jump folding and unfolding experiments, we demonstrate the presence of an on-pathway intermediate that transiently accumulates during (un)folding. By comparing the kinetics of folding of the wild-type protein to that of a site-directed variant of C-SH2 in which the proline was replaced with an alanine, we demonstrate that this intermediate is dictated by the peptidyl prolyl cis-trans isomerization. The results are discussed in the light of previous work on the effect of peptidyl prolyl cis-trans isomerization on folding events.
Promising New Inhibitors of Tyrosyl-DNA Phosphodiesterase I (Tdp 1) Combining 4-Arylcoumarin and Monoterpenoid Moieties as Components of Complex Antitumor Therapy
Authors: Khomenko Tatyana M. , Zakharenko Alexandra L. , Chepanova Arina A. , Ilina Ekaterina S. , Zakharova Olga D. , Kaledin Vasily I. , Nikolin Valeriy P. , Popova Nelly A. , Korchagina Dina V. , Reynisson Jóhannes , Chand Raina , Ayine-Tora Daniel M. , Patel Jinal , Leung Ivanhoe K. H. , Volcho Konstantin P. , Salakhutdinov Nariman F. , Lavrik Olga I.
Published: December 2019

Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (Tdp1) is an important DNA repair enzyme in humans, and a current and promising inhibition target for the development of new chemosensitizing agents due to its ability to remove DNA damage caused by topoisomerase 1 (Top1) poisons such as topotecan and irinotecan. Herein, we report our work on the synthesis and characterization of new Tdp1 inhibitors that combine the arylcoumarin (neoflavonoid) and monoterpenoid moieties. Our results showed that they are potent Tdp1 inhibitors with IC50 values in the submicromolar range. In vivo experiments with mice revealed that compound 3ba (IC50 0.62 µM) induced a significant increase in the antitumor effect of topotecan on the Krebs-2 ascites tumor model. Our results further strengthen the argument that Tdp1 is a druggable target with the potential to be developed into a clinically-potent adjunct therapy in conjunction with Top1 poisons.
Hadrontherapy Interactions in Molecular and Cellular Biology
Authors: Thariat Juliette , Valable Samuel , Laurent Carine , Haghdoost Siamak , Pérès Elodie A. , Bernaudin Myriam , Sichel François , Lesueur Paul , Césaire Mathieu , Petit Edwige , Ferré Aurélie E. , Saintigny Yannick , Skog Sven , Tudor Mihaela , Gérard Michael , Thureau Sebastien , Habrand Jean-Louis , Balosso Jacques , Chevalier François
Published: December 2019

The resistance of cancer cells to radiotherapy is a major issue in the curative treatment of cancer patients. This resistance can be intrinsic or acquired after irradiation and has various definitions, depending on the endpoint that is chosen in assessing the response to radiation. This phenomenon might be strengthened by the radiosensitivity of surrounding healthy tissues. Sensitive organs near the tumor that is to be treated can be affected by direct irradiation or experience nontargeted reactions, leading to early or late effects that disrupt the quality of life of patients. For several decades, new modalities of irradiation that involve accelerated particles have been available, such as proton therapy and carbon therapy, raising the possibility of specifically targeting the tumor volume. The goal of this review is to examine the up-to-date radiobiological and clinical aspects of hadrontherapy, a discipline that is maturing, with promising applications. We first describe the physical and biological advantages of particles and their application in cancer treatment. The contribution of the microenvironment and surrounding healthy tissues to tumor radioresistance is then discussed, in relation to imaging and accurate visualization of potentially resistant hypoxic areas using dedicated markers, to identify patients and tumors that could benefit from hadrontherapy over conventional irradiation. Finally, we consider combined treatment strategies to improve the particle therapy of radioresistant cancers.
The Number of Platelets in Patient’s Blood Influences the Mechanical and Morphological Properties of PRP-Clot and Lysophosphatidic Acid Quantity in PRP
Authors: Bosetti Michela , Boffano Paolo , Marchetti Alice , Leigheb Massimiliano , Colli Mattia , Brucoli Matteo
Published: December 2019

The objectives of this study were to compare platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from patients with different concentrations of platelets and to assess the influence of these PRP preparations on human osteoblast (hOB) activity. In the literature, growth factors released by activated platelets have been considered responsible for the active role of PRP on bone regeneration but no specific role has been attributed to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) as a possible effector of biological responses. In this study, patients were grouped into either group A (poor in platelets) or group B (rich in platelets). Clots from PRP fraction 2 (F2-clots), obtained with CaCl2 activation of PRP from the two groups, were compared macroscopically and microscopically and for their mechanical properties before testing their activity on the proliferation and migration of hOB. LPA was quantified before and after PRP fractioning and activation. The fibrin network of F2-clots from patients with a lower platelet concentration had an organized structure with large and distinct fibers while F2-clots from patients in group B revealed a similar structure to those in group A but with a slight increase in density. ELISA results showed a significantly higher plasma level of LPA in patients with a higher platelet concentration (group B) in comparison to those in group A (p < 0.05). This different concentration was evidenced in PRP but not in the clots. Depending on the number of platelets in patient’s blood, a PRP-clot with higher or lower mechanical properties can be obtained. The higher level of LPA in PRP from patients richer in platelets should be considered as responsible for the higher hOB activity in bone regeneration.
Flavescence Dorée Phytoplasma Has Multiple ftsH Genes that Are Differentially Expressed in Plants and Insects
Authors: Jollard Camille , Foissac Xavier , Desqué Delphine , Razan Frédérique , Garcion Christophe , Beven Laure , Eveillard Sandrine
Published: December 2019

Flavescence dorée (FD) is a severe epidemic disease of grapevines caused by FD phytoplasma (FDP) transmitted by the leafhopper vector Scaphoideus titanus. The recent sequencing of the 647-kbp FDP genome highlighted an unusual number of genes encoding ATP-dependent zinc proteases FtsH, which have been linked to variations in the virulence of “Candidatus Phytoplasma mali” strains. The aims of the present study were to predict the FtsH repertoire of FDP, to predict the functional domains and topologies of the encoded proteins in the phytoplasma membrane and to measure the expression profiles in different hosts. Eight complete ftsH genes have been identified in the FDP genome. In addition to ftsH6, which appeared to be the original bacterial ortholog, the other seven gene copies were clustered on a common distinct phylogenetic branch, suggesting intra-genome duplication of ftsH. The expression of these proteins, quantified in plants and insect vectors in natural and experimental pathosystems, appeared to be modulated in a host-dependent manner. Two of the eight FtsH C-tails were predicted by Phobius software to be extracellular and, therefore, in direct contact with the host cellular content. As phytoplasmas cannot synthesize amino acids, our data raised questions regarding the involvement of FtsH in the adaptation to hosts via potentially enhanced recycling of phytoplasma cellular proteins and host protein degradation.
Larval Migration Behaviour of Busseola fusca (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Bt and Non-Bt Maize under Semi-Field and Field Conditions
Authors: Visser Andri , Du Plessis Hannalene , Erasmus Annemie , van den Berg Johnnie
Published: December 2019

Busseola fusca (Fuller) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a destructive pest of maize throughout the African continent. Bt maize is an effective control measure for this pest, however, selection pressure for resistance evolution is high. This necessitates the implementation of insect resistance management (IRM) strategies such as the high-dose/refuge strategy. This IRM strategy relies on the validity of several assumptions about the behaviour of pests during insect-hostplant interactions. In this study, the migration behaviour of B. fusca larvae was evaluated in a semi-field (greenhouse) and field setting. The effect of factors such as different Cry proteins, plant growth stage at infestation, and plant density on the rate and distance of larval migration were investigated over four and five week periods. Migration of the larvae were recorded by using both a leaf feeding damage rating scale and destructive sampling at the end of the trials. Results indicated that B. fusca larval migration success was significantly affected by plant growth stage and plant density—while limited larval migration was recorded in plots inoculated with larvae at a late growth stage (V10), higher plant density facilitated increased interplant migration. The results also suggest that B. fusca larvae do not migrate extensively (rarely further than two plants from the natal plant) and that larval mortality is high. Implications for IRM strategies are discussed.