bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Students’ Acceptance of the COVID-19 Impact on Shifting Higher Education to Distance Learning in Poland
Authors: Rizun Mariia , Strzelecki Artur
Published: September 2020

This paper is dedicated to the higher education institutions shifting towards distance learning processes due to the global pandemic situation caused by COVID-19 in 2020. The paper covers the pandemic situation in Poland generally, analyzing governmental ordinances and tracking the gradual extension of restrictions for educational institutions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of Experience, Enjoyment, Computer Anxiety, and Self-Efficacy on students’ acceptance of shifting education to distance learning. The study tested and used the adapted General Extended Technology Acceptance Model for E-Learning (GETAMEL) in the context of coronavirus pandemic. The partial least squares method of structural equation modeling was employed to test the proposed research model. The study utilizes an online survey to obtain data from 1692 Polish undergraduate and graduate students in both full- and part-time study. The dataset was analyzed using SmartPLS 3 software. Results showed that the best predictor of student’s acceptance of shifting education to distance learning is Enjoyment, followed by Self-Efficacy. Both Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness predict student’s Attitude Towards Using and Intention to Use the distance learning. The findings improve understanding regarding the acceptance of distance learning and this work is therefore of particular interest to teachers and practitioners of education.
Application of AULA Risk Assessment Tool by Comparison with Other Ergonomic Risk Assessment Tools
Authors: Choi Kyeong-Hee , Kim Dae-Min , Cho Min-Uk , Park Chae-Won , Kim Seoung-Yeon , Kim Min-Jung , Kong Yong-Ku
Published: September 2020

Agricultural upper limb assessment (AULA), which was developed for evaluating upper limb body postures, was compared with the existing assessment tools such as rapid upper limb assessment (RULA), rapid entire body assessment (REBA), and ovako working posture analysis system (OWAS) based on the results of experts’ assessments of 196 farm tasks in this study. The expert group consisted of ergonomists, industrial medicine experts, and agricultural experts. As a result of the hit rate analysis, the hit rate (average: 48.6%) of AULA was significantly higher than those of the other assessment tools (RULA: 33.3%, REBA: 30.1%, and OWAS: 34.4%). The quadratic weighted kappa analysis also showed that the kappa value (0.718) of AULA was significantly higher than those of the other assessment tools (0.599, 0.578, and 0.538 for RULA, REBA, and OWAS, respectively). Based on the results, AULA showed a better agreement with expert evaluation results than other evaluation tools. In general, other assessment tools tended to underestimate the risk of upper limb posture in this study. AULA would be an appropriate evaluation tool to assess the risk of various upper limb postures.
Transitions in the Careers of Competitive Swimmers: To Continue or Finish with Elite Sport?
Authors: Siekanska Malgorzata , Blecharz Jan
Published: September 2020

An athletic career is a succession of stages and transitions (normative and non-normative), which may have decisive effects on either maintaining a satisfactory and/or successful course or deciding about premature career termination. The main purpose of this study was to identify differences between swimmers (Mage = 21.32, SD = 2.62) who after undergoing the transition from junior to senior level either: (a) continued their career hoping to improve their performance regardless of low success at the elite level—Group I; or (b) decided on premature athletic career termination—Group II. The criteria for inclusion included having undergone the transition from junior to senior level and having competed at elite level for at least a year (M = 4.14 years, SD = 1.74). The participants were administered a demographic survey and a structured interview. The results revealed differences in developmental stages. The exploration phase was longer (MGroup I = 5.8 yrs, SD = 2.04, MGroup II = 4.6 yrs, SD = 2.4; Z = −1.902, p = 0.057); the commitment phase was shorter (MGroup I = 3.6 yrs, SD = 1.3; MGroup II = 4.6 yrs, SD = 1.7; Z = −1.735, p = 0.083); the number of hours of structured practice were (MGroup I = 5975, SD = 2474; MGroup II = 7623, SD = 2660, Z = −1.928, p = 0.054); the number of perceived costs were (Group I = 22, Group II = 34; Z = −2.209, p = 0.0027); and the most often pointed benefits of a sporting career were (Group I—94% health & physical fitness; Group II—88% personal growth & life skills). Furthermore, essential inhibitors and facilitators of athletes’ development were identified. The findings of the study have practical applications for athletes, coaches, parents and sport psychology professionals. For instance, appropriate social support can help to prevent elite athletes’ premature career termination from professional sport during and after their normative transition from junior to senior level.
Detection of Enteric Viruses and Bacterial Indicators in a Sewage Treatment Center and Shallow Water Bay
Authors: Janahi Essam M. , Mustafa Sakina , Parkar Saba F. D. , Naser Humood A. , Eisa Zaki M.
Published: September 2020

The incidence of enteric viruses in treated wastewater and their potential release into the environment or use for agriculture are very critical matters in public health. In our study, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) analysis of enteric viruses was performed on 59 samples of influents and effluents collected from Tubli wastewater treatment plant (Water Pollution Control Center (WPCC)) and Tubli Bay, where the effluents were discharged, in Kingdom of Bahrain during two sampling periods. Four clinically essential waterborne enteric viruses were examined: enterovirus (EV), hepatitis A virus (HAV), astroviruses (AV), and rotaviruses (RV) and compared to standard bacterial and bacteriophages indicators of fecal pollution. Detection rates of EV, AV, HAV, and RV in the influent samples were 100%, 75%, 12.5%, and 12.5%, respectively, while 50% of the effluent samples from Tubli WPCC contained only EV RNA. None of the tested enteric viruses could be detected in any of the samples collected directly from Tubli Bay. Effluent samples from Tubli plant did not show significant seasonal differences. Since detection of enteric viruses genome does not necessarily indicate infectivity, the infectivity of these viruses was evaluated through isolation and growth of indictor bacteria and bacteriophages. High concentration of fecal bacteriological indicators was detected in all effluents samples (100%): 3.20 × 103 cfu/mL for E. coli, 1.32 × 103 cfu/mL for Salmonella spp., and 1.92 × 103 cfu/mL for Shigella spp. E. coli and Salmonella specific bacteriophages were also detected in the effluent samples in high titers. The combined results of PCR and bacterial enumeration point to a probable public health risk via the use of these wastewaters in agriculture or their discharge into the sea. Continuous surveillance of viral and bacterial prevalence and their resistance to sewage disinfection procedures could contribute to a better control of risks associated with the recycling of effluent wastewater and its release into the environment.
The Severity of Traumatic Stress Associated with COVID-19 Pandemic, Perception of Support, Sense of Security, and Sense of Meaning in Life among Nurses: Research Protocol and Preliminary Results from Poland
Authors: Nowicki Grzegorz Józef , Ślusarska Barbara , Tucholska Kinga , Naylor Katarzyna , Chrzan-Rodak Agnieszka , Niedorys Barbara
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic can not only affect physical health, but also mental health, resulting in sleep problems, depression, and traumatic stress. Our research investigates the level of posttraumatic stress, perceived social support, opinions on positive and negative consequences of the pandemic, sense of security and sense of meaning among nurses in the face of this new and not fully understood global epidemiological phenomenon. For this purpose, computer-assisted web interviews were conducted between May 1 and May 15, 2020. Participating nurses completed the following research tools: The Impact Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), The Changes in Outlook Questionnaire (CIOQ), The Safety Experience Questionnaire (SEQ) and The Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ). Three hundred and twenty-five nurses of an average age of 39.18 ± 11.16 years and working throughout Poland joined the study. The average overall IES-R score in the study group was 1.78 ± 0.65. Among the dimensions of traumatic stress, the highest score was obtained in the “avoidance” dimension was 1.86 ± 0.73. Amongst participating nurses, the highest support rates were provided by significant others (22.58 ± 5.22). Higher average scores were noted among participants in the subscale measuring positive psychological changes (18.56 ± 4.04). The mean MLQ score was 5.33 ± 0.87. A slightly higher result was observed in the subscale “presence” (5.35 ± 1.14). The results of the research implemented during the period of severe psychological pressure associated with the COVID-19 pandemic provided information on symptoms of traumatic stress in the examined group of nurses. Their sense of security has been lowered and accompanied by an intensified reflection on issues concerning security. However, their current sense of meaning in life remains higher than the tendency to searching for it. The surveyed nurses received individual support mostly from significant others (i.e., other than family and friends). They see positive changes resulting from painful experiences related to the COVID-19 pandemic, which can be characterized by adaptation in the form of post-traumatic growth.
Physical Activity, Health-Related Quality of Life, and Stress among the Chinese Adult Population during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Qi Meiling , Li Ping , Moyle Wendy , Weeks Benjamin , Jones Cindy
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic poses a threat to global public health due to home confinement policies impacting on physical activity engagement and overall health. This study aimed to explore physical activity participation, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and levels of perceived stress among Chinese adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey was conducted between 25 February and 15 March 2020. A total of 645 surveys were completed. Participants reported increased sedentary time from pre-COVID-19 period to the COVID-19 pandemic period (p < 0.05). Over 80% of the sample engaged in either low or moderate intensity physical activity. Participants’ average physical component summary score (PCS) and mental component summary score (MCS) for HRQoL were 75.3 (SD = 16.6) and 66.6 (SD = 19.3), respectively. More than half of participants (53.0%) reported moderate levels of stress. Significant correlations between physical activity participation, HRQoL, and levels of perceived stress were observed (p < 0.05). Prolonged sitting time was also found to have a negative effect on HRQoL (p < 0.05). During such periods of home confinement, public health strategies aimed at educating Chinese adults to enhance home-based physical activity may be necessary to maintain health on a population level.
“No Papers. No Doctor”: A Qualitative Study of Access to Maternity Care Services for Undocumented Immigrant Women in Denmark
Authors: Funge Julia Kadin , Boye Mathilde Christine , Johnsen Helle , Nørredam Marie
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study is to explore undocumented immigrant women’s experiences of, as well as their access to, maternity care services during pregnancy in Denmark. Recruiting through the two branches of a non-governmental organization (NGO)-driven health clinic in Denmark, we conducted 21 semi-structured interviews with undocumented immigrant women in Denmark from January 2018 to January 2019. The undocumented immigrant women experienced barriers such as fear of deportation, concerns about payment for services, and uncertainties about rules for access. Many of them described depending on NGO-driven initiatives to access maternity care services and found these as providing a safe environment for care. Our findings contribute insights towards understanding the health behavior of undocumented immigrant women and highlight the need for inclusive care to safeguard the health of the women and their children.
Media Reporting on Air Pollution: Health Risk and Precautionary Measures in National and Regional Newspapers
Authors: Ramondt Steven , Ramírez A. Susana
Published: September 2020

Exposure to air pollution is one of the primary global health risk factors, yet individuals lack the knowledge to engage in individual risk mitigation and the skills to mobilize for the change necessary to reduce such risks. News media is an important tool for influencing individual actions and support for public policies to reduce environmental threats; thus, a lack of news coverage of such issues may exacerbate knowledge deficits. This study examines the reporting of health risks and precautionary measures regarding air pollution in national and regional print news. We conducted a content analysis of two national and two local newspapers covering the USA’s most polluted region during a 5-year period. Coders identified information on threat, self-efficacy, protective measures and information sources. Nearly 40% of air pollution news articles mentioned human health risks. Fewer than 10% of news stories about air pollution provided information on the precautionary measures necessary for individuals to take action to mitigate their risk. Local newspapers did not report more threat (Χ2 = 1.931, p = 0.165) and efficacy (Χ2 = 1.118, p = 0.209) information. Although air pollution levels are high and continue to rise at alarming rates, our findings suggest that news media reporting is not conducive to raising environmental health literacy.
Robust Optimization-Based Commodity Portfolio Performance
Authors: Adhikari Ramesh , Putnam Kyle J. , Panta Humnath
Published: September 2020

This paper examines the performance of a naïve equally weighted buy-and-hold portfolio and optimization-based commodity futures portfolios for various lookback and holding periods using data from January 1986 to December 2018. The application of Monte Carlo simulation-based mean-variance and conditional value-at-risk optimization techniques are used to construct the robust commodity futures portfolios. This paper documents the benefits of applying a sophisticated, robust optimization technique to construct commodity futures portfolios. We find that a 12-month lookback period contains the most useful information in constructing optimization-based portfolios, and a 1-month holding period yields the highest returns among all the holding periods examined in the paper. We also find that an optimized conditional value-at-risk portfolio using a 12-month lookback period outperforms an optimized mean-variance portfolio using the same lookback period. Our findings highlight the advantages of using robust optimization for portfolio formation in the presence of return uncertainty in the commodity futures markets. The results also highlight the practical importance of choosing the appropriate lookback and holding period when using robust optimization in the commodity portfolio formation process.
G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor Mediates Cell Proliferation through the cAMP/PKA/CREB Pathway in Murine Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Chuang Shu-Chun , Chen Chung-Hwan , Chou Ya-Shuan , Ho Mei-Ling , Chang Je-Ken
Published: September 2020

Estrogen is an important hormone to regulate skeletal physiology via estrogen receptors. The traditional estrogen receptors are ascribed to two nuclear estrogen receptors (ERs), ERα and ERβ. Moreover, G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 (GPER-1) was reported as a membrane receptor for estrogen in recent years. However, whether GPER-1 regulated osteogenic cell biology on skeletal system is still unclear. GPER-1 is expressed in growth plate abundantly before puberty but decreased abruptly since the very late stage of puberty in humans. It indicates GPER-1 might play an important role in skeletal growth regulation. GPER-1 expression has been confirmed in osteoblasts, osteocytes and chondrocytes, but its expression in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has not been confirmed. In this study, we hypothesized that GPER-1 is expressed in bone MSCs (BMSC) and enhances BMSC proliferation. The cultured tibiae of neonatal rat and murine BMSCs were tested in our study. GPER-1-specific agonist (G-1) and antagonist (G-15), and GPER-1 siRNA (siGPER-1) were used to evaluate the downstream signaling pathway and cell proliferation. Our results revealed BrdU-positive cell counts were higher in cultured tibiae in the G-1 group. The G-1 also enhanced the cell viability and proliferation, whereas G-15 and siGPER-1 reduced these activities. The cAMP and phosphorylation of CREB were enhanced by G-1 but inhibited by G-15. We further demonstrated that GPER-1 mediates BMSC proliferation via the cAMP/PKA/p-CREB pathway and subsequently upregulates cell cycle regulators, cyclin D1/cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 6 and cyclin E1/CDK2 complex. The present study is the first to report that GPER-1 mediates BMSC proliferation. This finding indicates that GPER-1 mediated signaling positively regulates BMSC proliferation and may provide novel insights into addressing estrogen-mediated bone development.
Definition of a Novel Plasmid-Based Gene Transfection Protocol of Mammalian Skeletal Muscles by Means of In Vivo Electroporation
Authors: Spugnini Enrico P. , Scimeca Manuel , Amadio Bruno , Cortese Giancarlo , Fanciulli Maurizio , Vincenzi Bruno , De Luca Antonio , Baldi Alfonso
Published: September 2020

We describe an original electroporation protocol for in vivo plasmid DNA transfection. The right hind limbs of C57 mice are exposed to a specifically designed train of permeabilizing electric pulses by transcutaneous application of tailored needle electrodes, immediately after the injection of pEGFP-C1 plasmid encoding GFP (Green Fluorescente Protein). The electroporated rodents show a greater GFP expression than the controls at three different time points (4, 10, and 15 days). The electroporated muscles display only mild interstitial myositis, with a significant increase in inflammatory cell infiltrates. Finally, mild gait abnormalities are registered in electroporated mice only in the first 48 h after the treatment. This protocol has proven to be highly efficient in terms of expression levels of the construct, is easy to apply since it does not require surgical exposure of the muscle and is well tolerated by the animals because it does not cause evident morphological and functional damage to the electroporated muscle.
Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem (iPS) Cells Suppress or Activate T Cells via Costimulatory Signals
Authors: Sugita Sunao , Futatsugi Yoko , Ishida Masaaki , Edo Ayaka , Takahashi Masayo
Published: September 2020

Human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells derived from induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have immunosuppressive properties. However, RPE cells are also known as immunogenic cells, and they have major histocompatibility complex expression and produce inflammatory proteins, and thus experience immune rejection after transplantation. In this study, to confirm the immunological properties of IPS-RPE cells, we examined whether human RPE cells derived from iPS cells could suppress or stimulate inflammatory T cells from uveitis patients via costimulatory signals. We established T cells from patients with active uveitis as target cells and used iPS-RPE cells as effector cells. As a result, cultured iPS-RPE cells inhibited cell proliferation and the production of IFN-γ by activated uveitis CD4+ T cells, especially Th1-type T cells. In contrast, iPS-RPE cells stimulated T cells of uveitis patients. The iPS-RPE cells constitutively expressed B7-H1/CD274 and B7-DC/CD273, and suppressed the activation of T cells via the PD-1 receptor. iPS-RPE expressed these negative costimulatory molecules, especially when RPE cells were pretreated with recombinant IFN-γ. In addition, iPS-RPE cells also expressed B7-H3/CD276 costimulatory molecules and activated uveitis T cells through the B7-H3-TLT-2 receptor. Thus, cultured iPS-derived retinal cells can suppress or activate inflammatory T cells in vitro through costimulatory interactions.
Altered Phosphorylation of Cytoskeleton Proteins in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Characterizes Chronic Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Rocchetti Maria Teresa , Rascio Federica , Castellano Giuseppe , Fiorentino Marco , Netti Giuseppe Stefano , Spadaccino Federica , Ranieri Elena , Gallone Anna , Gesualdo Loreto , Stallone Giovanni , Pontrelli Paola , Grandaliano Giuseppe
Published: September 2020

Chronic antibody-mediated rejection (CAMR) is the major cause of kidney transplant failure. The molecular mechanisms underlying this event are still poorly defined and this lack of knowledge deeply influences the potential therapeutic strategies. The aim of our study was to analyze the phosphoproteome of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), to identify cellular signaling networks differentially activated in CAMR. Phosphoproteins isolated from PBMCs of biopsy proven CAMR, kidney transplant recipients with normal graft function and histology and healthy immunocompetent individuals, have been investigated by proteomic analysis. Phosphoproteomic results were confirmed by Western blot and PBMCs’ confocal microscopy analyses. Overall, 38 PBMCs samples were analyzed. A differential analysis of PBMCs’ phosphoproteomes revealed an increase of lactotransferrin, actin-related protein 2 (ARPC2) and calgranulin-B in antibody-mediated rejection patients, compared to controls. Increased expression of phosphorylated ARPC2 and its correlation to F-actin filaments were confirmed in CAMR patients. Our results are the first evidence of altered cytoskeleton organization in circulating immune cells of CAMR patients. The increased expression of phosphorylated ARPC2 found in the PBMCs of our patients, and its association with derangement of F-actin filaments, might suggest that proteins regulating actin dynamics in immune cells could be involved in the mechanism of CAMR of kidney grafts.
Temporal Alterations in Mitochondrial β-Oxidation and Oxidative Stress Aggravate Chronic Kidney Disease Development in 5/6 Nephrectomy Induced Renal Damage
Authors: Aparicio-Trejo Omar Emiliano , Rojas-Morales Pedro , Avila-Rojas Sabino Hazael , León-Contreras Juan Carlos , Hernández-Pando Rogelio , Jiménez-Uribe Alexis Paulina , Prieto-Carrasco Rodrigo , Sánchez-Lozada Laura Gabriela , Pedraza-Chaverri José , Tapia Edilia
Published: September 2020

Five-sixths nephrectomy (5/6Nx) model is widely used for studying the mechanisms involved in chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression, a kidney pathology that has increased dramatically in recent years. Mitochondrial impairment is a key mechanism that aggravates CKD progression; however, the information on mitochondrial bioenergetics and redox alterations along a time course in a 5/6Nx model is still limited and in some cases contradictory. Therefore, we performed for the first time a time-course study of mitochondrial alterations by high-resolution respirometry in the 5/6Nx model. Our results show a decrease in mitochondrial β-oxidation at early times, as well as a permanent impairment in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in CI-linked respiration, a permanent oxidative state in mitochondria and decoupling of these organelles. These pathological alterations are linked to the early decrease in complex I and ATP synthase activities and to the further decrease in complex III activity. Therefore, our results may suggest that mitochondrial bioenergetics impairment is an early event in renal damage, whose persistence in time aggravates CKD development in the 5/6Nx model.
Updated Understanding of Cancer as a Metabolic and Telomere-Driven Disease, and Proposal for Complex Personalized Treatment, a Hypothesis
Authors: Muresanu Cristian , Somasundaram Siva G. , Vissarionov Sergey V. , Torres Solis Luis Fernando , Solís Herrera Arturo , Kirkland Cecil E. , Aliev Gjumrakch
Published: September 2020

In this review, we propose a holistic approach to understanding cancer as a metabolic disease. Our search for relevant studies in medical databases concludes that cancer cells do not evolve directly from normal healthy cells. We hypothesize that aberrant DNA damage accumulates over time—avoiding the natural DNA controls that otherwise repair or replace the rapidly replicating cells. DNA damage starts to accumulate in non-replicating cells, leading to senescence and aging. DNA damage is linked with genetic and epigenetic factors, but the development of cancer is favored by telomerase activity. Evidence indicates that telomere length is affected by chronic inflammations, alterations of mitochondrial DNA, and various environmental factors. Emotional stress also influences telomere length. Chronic inflammation can cause oxidative DNA damage. Oxidative stress, in turn, can trigger mitochondrial changes, which ultimately alter nuclear gene expression. This vicious cycle has led several scientists to view cancer as a metabolic disease. We have proposed complex personalized treatments that seek to correct multiple changes simultaneously using a psychological approach to reduce chronic stress, immune checkpoint therapy with reduced doses of chemo and radiotherapy, minimal surgical intervention, if any, and mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming protocols supplemented by intermittent fasting and personalized dietary plans without interfering with the other therapies.
Usefulness of Brain Positron Emission Tomography with Different Tracers in the Evaluation of Patients with Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalous
Authors: Mattoli Maria Vittoria , Treglia Giorgio , Calcagni Maria Lucia , Mangiola Annunziato , Anile Carmelo , Trevisi Gianluca
Published: September 2020

Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is the only form of dementia that can be cured by surgery. Its diagnosis relies on clinical and radiological criteria. Identifying patients who can benefit from surgery is challenging, as other neurological diseases can be concomitant or mimic iNPH. We performed a systematic review on the role of positron emission tomography (PET) in iNPH. We retrieved 35 papers evaluating four main functional aspects with different PET radiotracers: (1) PET with amyloid tracers, revealing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology in 20–57% of suspected iNPH patients, could be useful in predictions of surgical outcome. (2) PET with radiolabeled water as perfusion tracer showed a global decreased cerebral blood flow (CBF) and regional reduction of CBF in basal ganglia in iNPH; preoperative perfusion parameters could predict surgical outcome. (3) PET with 2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoroglucose ([18F]FDG ) showed a global reduction of glucose metabolism without a specific cortical pattern and a hypometabolism in basal ganglia; [18F]FDG PET may identify a coexisting neurodegenerative disease, helping in patient selection for surgery; postsurgery increase in glucose metabolism was associated with clinical improvement. (4) Dopaminergic PET imaging showed a postsynaptic D2 receptor reduction and striatal upregulation of D2 receptor after treatment, associated with clinical improvement. Overall, PET imaging could be a useful tool in iNPH diagnoses and treatment response.
Electroacupuncture Modulates Spinal BDNF/TrκB Signaling Pathway and Ameliorates the Sensitization of Dorsal Horn WDR Neurons in Spared Nerve Injury Rats
Authors: Xue Meng , Sun Ya-Lan , Xia Yang-Yang , Huang Zhi-Hua , Huang Cheng , Xing Guo-Gang
Published: September 2020

Neuropathic pain is more complex and severely affects the quality of patients’ life. However, the therapeutic strategy for neuropathic pain in the clinic is still limited. Previously we have reported that electroacupuncture (EA) has an attenuating effect on neuropathic pain induced by spared nerve injury (SNI), but its potential mechanisms remain to be further elucidated. In this study, we designed to determine whether BDNF/TrκB signaling cascade in the spinal cord is involved in the inhibitory effect of 2 Hz EA on neuropathic pain in SNI rats. The paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) of rats was used to detect SNI-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. The expression of BDNF/TrκB cascade in the spinal cord was evaluated by qRT-PCR and Western blot assay. The C-fiber-evoked discharges of wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons in spinal dorsal horn were applied to indicate the noxious response of WDR neurons. The results showed that 2 Hz EA significantly down-regulated the levels of BDNF and TrκB mRNA and protein expression in the spinal cord of SNI rats, along with ameliorating mechanical hypersensitivity. In addition, intrathecal injection of 100 ng BDNF, not only inhibited the analgesic effect of 2 Hz EA on pain hypersensitivity, but also reversed the decrease of BDNF and TrκB expression induced by 2 Hz EA. Moreover, 2 Hz EA obviously reduced the increase of C-fiber-evoked discharges of dorsal horn WDR neurons by SNI, but exogenous BDNF (100 ng) effectively reversed the inhibitory effect of 2 Hz EA on SNI rats, resulting in a remarkable improvement of excitability of dorsal horn WDR neurons in SNI rats. Taken together, these data suggested that 2 Hz EA alleviates mechanical hypersensitivity by blocking the spinal BDNF/TrκB signaling pathway-mediated central sensitization in SNI rats. Therefore, targeting BDNF/TrκB cascade in the spinal cord may be a potential mechanism of EA against neuropathic pain.
Regulation of Functional Protein Aggregation by Multiple Factors: Implications for the Amyloidogenic Behavior of the CAP Superfamily Proteins
Authors: Sheng Jie , Olrichs Nick K. , Gadella Bart M. , Kaloyanova Dora V. , Helms J. Bernd
Published: September 2020

The idea that amyloid fibrils and other types of protein aggregates are toxic for cells has been challenged by the discovery of a variety of functional aggregates. However, an identification of crucial differences between pathological and functional aggregation remains to be explored. Functional protein aggregation is often reversible by nature in order to respond properly to changing physiological conditions of the cell. In addition, increasing evidence indicates that fast fibril growth is a feature of functional amyloids, providing protection against the long-term existence of potentially toxic oligomeric intermediates. It is becoming clear that functional protein aggregation is a complexly organized process that can be mediated by a multitude of biomolecular factors. In this overview, we discuss the roles of diverse biomolecules, such as lipids/membranes, glycosaminoglycans, nucleic acids and metal ions, in regulating functional protein aggregation. Our studies on the protein GAPR-1 revealed that several of these factors influence the amyloidogenic properties of this protein. These observations suggest that GAPR-1, as well as the cysteine-rich secretory proteins, antigen 5 and pathogenesis-related proteins group 1 (CAP) superfamily of proteins that it belongs to, require the assembly into an amyloid state to exert several of their functions. A better understanding of functional aggregate formation may also help in the prevention and treatment of amyloid-related diseases.
Anthocyanins in Floral Colors: Biosynthesis and Regulation in Chrysanthemum Flowers
Authors: Mekapogu Manjulatha , Vasamsetti Bala Murali Krishna , Kwon Oh-Keun , Ahn Myung-Suk , Lim Sun-Hyung , Jung Jae-A
Published: September 2020

Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is an economically important ornamental crop across the globe. As floral color is the major factor determining customer selection, manipulation of floral color has been a major objective for breeders. Anthocyanins are one of the main pigments contributing to a broad variety of colors in the ray florets of chrysanthemum. Manipulating petal pigments has resulted in the development of a vast range of floral colors. Although the candidate genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis have been well studied, the genetic and transcriptional control of floral color remains unclear. Despite advances in multi-omics technology, these methods remain in their infancy in chrysanthemum, owing to its large complex genome and hexaploidy. Hence, there is a need to further elucidate and better understand the genetic and molecular regulatory mechanisms in chrysanthemum, which can provide a basis for future advances in breeding for novel and diverse floral colors in this commercially beneficial crop. Therefore, this review describes the significance of anthocyanins in chrysanthemum flowers, and the mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthesis under genetic and environmental factors, providing insight into the development of novel colored ray florets. Genetic and molecular regulatory mechanisms that control anthocyanin biosynthesis and the various breeding efforts to modify floral color in chrysanthemum are detailed.
Plant Natural Sources of the Endocannabinoid (E)-β-Caryophyllene: A Systematic Quantitative Analysis of Published Literature
Authors: Maffei Massimo E.
Published: September 2020

(E)-β-caryophyllene (BCP) is a natural sesquiterpene hydrocarbon present in hundreds of plant species. BCP possesses several important pharmacological activities, ranging from pain treatment to neurological and metabolic disorders. These are mainly due to its ability to interact with the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) and the complete lack of interaction with the brain CB1. A systematic analysis of plant species with essential oils containing a BCP percentage > 10% provided almost 300 entries with species belonging to 51 families. The essential oils were found to be extracted from 13 plant parts and samples originated from 56 countries worldwide. Statistical analyses included the evaluation of variability in BCP% and yield% as well as the statistical linkage between families, plant parts and countries of origin by cluster analysis. Identified species were also grouped according to their presence in the Belfrit list. The survey evidences the importance of essential oil yield evaluation in support of the chemical analysis. The results provide a comprehensive picture of the species with the highest BCP and yield percentages.
Large Extracellular Vesicles—A New Frontier of Liquid Biopsy in Oncology
Authors: Pezzicoli Gaetano , Tucci Marco , Lovero Domenica , Silvestris Franco , Porta Camillo , Mannavola Francesco
Published: September 2020

Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) are emerging as pivotal elements in cancer. Many studies have focused on the role of Small- (S)-EVs but in recent years Large-(L)-EVs have progressively gained increasing interest due to their peculiar content and functions. Tumor-derived L-EVs carry a lot of oncogenic proteins, nucleic acids and lipids to recipient cells and are involved in the reshaping of the tumor microenvironment as well as in the metabolic rewiring and the promotion of the pro-metastatic attitude of cancer cells. Several techniques have been developed for the isolation of L-EVs and commercial kits are also available for efficient and easy recovery of these vesicles. Also, the improvement in DNA sequencing and “omics sciences” profoundly changed the way to analyze and explore the molecular content of L-EVs, thus providing novel and potentially useful cancer biomarkers. Herein, we review the most recent findings concerning the role of L-EVs in cancer and discuss their possible use in oncology as “liquid biopsy” tools as compared to the other classes of EVs.
Pseudoaneurysm Development after Free Wall Rupture Post Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Douedi Steven , Alfraji Nasam , Upadhyaya Vandan D. , Odak Mihir , Meleka Matthew , Raza Muhammad R.
Published: September 2020

Background: According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death globally, claiming millions of lives each year with an increasing prevalence. Myocardial infarction (MI) makes up a large sum of these deaths each year. While MI in itself is lethal, there are several complications that can increase the morbidity and mortality of an MI, such as left ventricular wall rupture and aneurysms. Case Presentation: We present a case of an elderly male with an extensive cardiac history who presented with a non-ST segment myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) managed with percutaneous coronary intervention. Hours after, he became hemodynamically unable and was found to have a pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle. Despite aggressive efforts, his pseudoaneurysm ruptured and he ultimately succumbed to his condition. Conclusions: Left ventricular pseudoaneurysm is usually seen after myocardial infarctions with a rupture rate of up to 45% leading to a mortality rate of about 50%. While cardiac catheterization with left ventriculography is the gold standard for diagnosis, echocardiography can also be used as an alternative. Treatment is emergent cardiac surgery but still holds a high operative risk. Therefore, patients may be medically stabilized and managed prior to ultimate surgical intervention.
Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction
Authors: Vancheri Federico , Longo Giovanni , Vancheri Sergio , Henein Michael
Published: September 2020

Many patients with chest pain undergoing coronary angiography do not show significant obstructive coronary lesions. A substantial proportion of these patients have abnormalities in the function and structure of coronary microcirculation due to endothelial and smooth muscle cell dysfunction. The coronary microcirculation has a fundamental role in the regulation of coronary blood flow in response to cardiac oxygen requirements. Impairment of this mechanism, defined as coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD), carries an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular clinical outcomes. Coronary endothelial dysfunction accounts for approximately two-thirds of clinical conditions presenting with symptoms and signs of myocardial ischemia without obstructive coronary disease, termed “ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease” (INOCA) and for a small proportion of “myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary artery disease” (MINOCA). More frequently, the clinical presentation of INOCA is microvascular angina due to CMD, while some patients present vasospastic angina due to epicardial spasm, and mixed epicardial and microvascular forms. CMD may be associated with focal and diffuse epicardial coronary atherosclerosis, which may reinforce each other. Both INOCA and MINOCA are more common in females. Clinical classification of CMD includes the association with conditions in which atherosclerosis has limited relevance, with non-obstructive atherosclerosis, and with obstructive atherosclerosis. Several studies already exist which support the evidence that CMD is part of systemic microvascular disease involving multiple organs, such as brain and kidney. Moreover, CMD is strongly associated with the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), diabetes, hypertensive heart disease, and also chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Since coronary microcirculation is not visible on invasive angiography or computed tomographic coronary angiography (CTCA), the diagnosis of CMD is usually based on functional assessment of microcirculation, which can be performed by both invasive and non-invasive methods, including the assessment of delayed flow of contrast during angiography, measurement of coronary flow reserve (CFR) and index of microvascular resistance (IMR), evaluation of angina induced by intracoronary acetylcholine infusion, and assessment of myocardial perfusion by positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance (CMR).
Capturing Expert Knowledge to Inform Decision Support Technology for Marine Operations
Authors: Smith Jennifer , Yazdanpanah Fatemeh , Thistle Rebecca , Musharraf Mashrura , Veitch Brian
Published: September 2020

The digital transformation of the offshore and maritime industries will present new safety challenges due to the rapid change in technology and underlying gaps in domain knowledge, substantially affecting maritime operations. To help anticipate and address issues that may arise in the move to autonomous maritime operations, this research applies a human-centered approach to developing decision support technology, specifically in the context of ice management operations. New technologies, such as training simulators and onboard decision support systems, present opportunities to close the gaps in competence and proficiency. Training simulators, for example, are useful platforms as human behaviour laboratories to capture expert knowledge and test training interventions. The information gathered from simulators can be integrated into a decision support system to provide seafarers with onboard guidance in real time. The purpose of this research is two-fold: (1) to capture knowledge held by expert seafarers, and (2) transform this expert knowledge into a database for the development of a decision support technology. This paper demonstrates the use of semi-structured interviews and bridge simulator exercises as a means to capture seafarer experience and best operating practices for offshore ice management. A case-based reasoning (CBR) model is used to translate the results of the knowledge capture exercises into an early-stage ice management decision support system. This paper will describe the methods used and insights gained from translating the interview data and expert performance from the bridge simulator into a case base that can be referenced by the CBR model.
Disseminated Histoplasmosis in HIV-Infected Patients: A Description of 34 Years of Clinical and Therapeutic Practice
Authors: Nacher Mathieu , Valdes Audrey , Adenis Antoine , Blaizot Romain , Abboud Philippe , Demar Magalie , Djossou Félix , Epelboin Loïc , Misslin Caroline , Ntab Balthazar , Drak Alsibai Kinan , Couppié Pierre
Published: September 2020

Disseminated histoplasmosis is the main AIDS-defining infection of French Guiana. We aim to describe our therapeutic experience for 349 patients with disseminated histoplasmosis between 1 January 1981 and 10 January 2014 in French Guiana. Survival, delays for treatment initiation, duration of induction therapy, and associated initial treatments are described. The death rate was 14.9 per 100 person-years, with an early drop in survival. Among those who died, >1/3 died within a year of HIV diagnosis, and ¾ of all patients with histoplasmosis had been diagnosed for HIV within a year. As induction treatment, 29% received liposomal amphotericin B, 12.9% received deoxycholate amphotericin B, 54% received itraconazole alone, and 21.8% received liposomal amphotericin B and itraconazole. The median delay between symptoms-onset and hospitalization was 19.5 days (IQR = 5–105). Liposomal amphotericin B or itraconazole was initiated shortly after admission. Treatment initiation was often presumptive for liposomal amphotericin B (27%) and itraconazole (20%). The median duration of liposomal amphotericin B treatment was 7 days (IQR = 5–11 days). The present study shows that ¾ of the patients were profoundly immunocompromised and had been diagnosed for HIV within the past year. Antifungal treatment was often initiated presumptively on admission. Over time there was a significant gradual decline in early death.
Fabrication of UV Laser-Induced Porous Graphene Patterns with Nanospheres and Their Optical and Electrical Characteristics
Authors: Lee Jun-Uk , Ma Yong-Won , Jeong Sung-Yeob , Shin Bo-Sung
Published: September 2020

Many studies have been conducted to fabricate unique structures on flexible substrates and to apply such structures to a variety of fields. However, it is difficult to produce unique structures such as multilayer, nanospheres and porous patterns on a flexible substrate. We present a facile method of nanospheres based on laser-induced porous graphene (LIPG), by using laser-induced plasma (LIP). We fabricated these patterns from commercial polyimide (PI) film, with a 355 nm pulsed laser. For a simple one-step process, we used laser direct writing (LDW), under ambient conditions. We irradiated the PI film at a defocused plane −4 mm away from the focal plane, for high pulse overlap rate. The effect of the laser scanning speed was investigated by FE-SEM, to observe morphological characterization. Moreover, we confirmed the pattern characteristics by optical microscope, Raman spectroscopy and electrical experiments. The results suggested that we could modulate the conductivity and structural color by controlling the laser scanning speed. In this work, when the speed of the laser is 20 mm/s and the fluence is 5.28 mJ/cm2, the structural color is most outstanding. Furthermore, we applied these unique characteristics to various colorful patterns by controlling focal plane.
pH-Responsive and Biodegradable ZnO-Capped Mesoporous Silica Composite Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Chen Minmin , Hu Jinxia , Bian Cancan , Zhu Chenghao , Chen Chen , Guo Zhijun , Zhang Zhimin , Agyekum Godfred Amfo , Zhang Zhuoqi , Cao Xichuan
Published: September 2020

As a drug delivery system (DDS), traditional mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) suffer from bioaccumulation in vivo and premature drug release in systemic circulation due to low degradation rate and lack of protective gatekeeper. Herein, we developed a safe and intelligent DDS with characteristics of pH-responsive biodegradation and controlled drug release based on mesoporous silica composite nanoparticles (MSCNs) capped with ZnO quantum dots (ZnO QDs). Acidic degradable MSCNs were successfully synthesized by doping Ca2+ and PO43− into the MSNs’ framework. The in vitro doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) release was inhibited at neutral pH 7.4 but triggered significantly at pH 5.0 due to the dissociation of ZnO caps. The internalization behavior and cytotoxicity of 4T1 cells indicated MSCNs-ZnO could efficiently deliver DOX into the cells with significant antitumor activity. Such a DDS with pH-responsive biodegradation and controlled drug release has promising potential for cancer therapy.
Preparation and Characterization of Electrospun Collagen Based Composites for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Drobota Mioara , Gradinaru Luiza Madalina , Vlad Stelian , Bargan Alexandra , Butnaru Maria , Angheloiu Marian , Aflori Magdalena
Published: September 2020

Electrospinning is a widely used technology for obtaining nanofibers from synthetic and natural polymers. In this study, electrospun mats from collagen (C), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and a blend of the two (C-PET) were prepared and stabilized through a cross-linking process. The aim of this research was to prepare and characterize the nanofiber structure by Fourier-transform infrared with attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) in close correlation with dynamic vapor sorption (DVS). The studies indicated that C-PET nanofibrous mats shows improved mechanical properties compared to collagen samples. A correlation between morphological, structural and cytotoxic proprieties of the studied samples were emphasized and the results suggest that the prepared nanofiber mats could be a promising candidate for tissue-engineering applications, especially dermal applications.