bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Replication Study Identified Seven SNPs Associated with Quantitative Traits of Type 2 Diabetes among Chinese Population in A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yuan Fan , Li Hui , Song Chao , Fang Hongyun , Wang Rui , Zhang Yan , Gong Weiyan , Liu Ailing
Published: April 2020

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified common variants for quantitative traits (insulin resistance and impaired insulin release) of type 2 diabetes (T2D) across different ethnics including China, but results were inconsistent. The study included 1654 subjects who were selected from the 2010–2012 China National Nutrition and Health Surveillance (CNNHS). Insulin resistance and impaired insulin release were assessed by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA). The study included 64 diabetes-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which were done using Mass ARRAY. A logistic regression model was employed to explore the associations of SNPs with insulin resistance and impaired insulin release by correcting for the confounders. The 5q11.2-rs4432842, RASGRP1-rs7403531, and SEC16B-rs574367 increased the risk of insulin resistance with OR = 1.23 (95% CI: 1.04–1.45, OR = 1.35 (95% CI: 1.13–1.62), OR = 1.34 (95% CI: 1.07–1.67), respectively, while MAEA-rs6815464 decreased the risk of insulin resistance (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.71–1.00). CENTD2-rs1552224, TSPAN8-rs7961581 and ANK1-rs516946 was associated with increased risk of impaired insulin release with OR = 1.47 (95% CI: 1.09–1.99), OR = 1.25 (95% CI: 1.03–1.51), OR = 1.39 (95% CI: 1.07–1.81), respectively. Our findings would provide insight into the pathogenesis of individual SNPs and T2D.
Models for Developing Community Organizations to Reinforce Health Management in Small Businesses
Authors: Choi Eun-Hi , Jung Hye-Sun
Published: April 2020

The incidence of occupational diseases in small businesses is higher than in big ones, and this fact puts the former in need of a healthcare management model they can administer. This study established a model based on community organizational development theory to reinforce worker empowerment for healthcare in small businesses, focusing on health centers for workers (HCFW). The researchers surveyed 408 workers at 39 small businesses in the B region of South Korea, according to the characteristics of business sites, general characteristics of workers, and elements of community organizational development theory, and analyzed their results with a structural equation. The research period was September, 2015. Five concepts were examined: empowerment in healthcare, community capacity, participation and relevance, critical consciousness, and issue selection. The results revealed that greater community capacity led to greater participation and relevance (γ = 0.39) and empowerment in healthcare (γ = 0.25), while greater participation and relevance led to greater empowerment in healthcare (γ = 0.76). In addition, greater critical consciousness led to greater participation and relevance (γ = 0.12). Finally, greater community capacity led to greater issues selection (γ = 0.56), which in turn led to greater participation and relevance (γ = 0.25). The study makes proposals for directions of health centers for workers and community networks. Confirmation of this model for worker empowerment suggests several directions to HCFW in relation to workers and community networks.
The Effect of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Attention, Self-Control, and Aggressiveness in Primary School Pupils
Authors: Suárez-García Zara , Álvarez-García David , García-Redondo Patricia , Rodríguez Celestino
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of Mindkeys Training, a mindfulness-based educational intervention, on attention, self-control, and aggressiveness in third-year primary school pupils. In order to achieve this aim, a switching replications design was used. Two groups of third year primary students (nGE1 = 40; nGE2 = 33), aged between 7 and 10 years old (M = 8.08; DT = 0.49), had the intervention at different time points, such that while one served as the experimental group, the other served as the control group. Longitudinal differences were examined in both groups, and cross-sectional differences were examined between the two groups at three time points; at the start of the study, and following the intervention with each group. To that end, measurements of problems of attention, deficits of self-control, and aggressiveness for students were obtained via a teacher rating scale. The intervention program demonstrated a positive effect on the reduction of pupils’ attention problems, deficits of self-control, and aggressiveness. The effects were greater on the cognitive variables that the intervention worked on directly (attention and self-control). Attention was the variable on which the intervention exhibited the longest term effects.
Is There a Need for Alcohol Policy to Mitigate Metal Contamination in Unrecorded Fruit Spirits?
Authors: Lachenmeier Dirk W.
Published: April 2020

Unrecorded alcohol comprises all types of alcohol that is not registered in the jurisdiction where it is consumed. In some countries in Central and Eastern Europe as well as the Balkans, the majority of unrecorded alcohol consumption may derive from the home production of fruit spirits. Some studies found a high prevalence of lead and cadmium in such spirits. This article provides a quantitative comparative risk assessment using the margin of exposure (MOE) methodology for lead and cadmium, compared to ethanol, for unrecorded fruit spirits. For average concentration levels, the lowest MOE (0.8) was calculated for ethanol (alcohol itself). For lead, the MOE was 13 for moderate daily drinking and 0.9 for the worst-case scenario. For cadmium, the MOE was 1982 for moderate daily drinking and 113 for the worst-case scenario. The results of this study are consistent with previous comparative risk assessments stating that ethanol itself comprises by far the highest risk of all compounds in alcoholic beverages. Regarding metal contaminants, the risk of cadmium appears negligible; however, lead may pose an additional health risk in heavy drinking circumstances. Strategies to avoid metal contamination in the artisanal home production of spirits need to be developed.
Investigation on Life Satisfaction of Rural-to-Urban Migrant Workers in China: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Liu Qian , Pan Haimin
Published: April 2020

Given the large number of internal migrant workers in China and their contribution to the development of the society and country, their life satisfaction somewhat signifies the success of their integration into the new environment. This study is to explore the influence of subjective relative deprivation on life satisfaction among rural-to-urban migrant workers in China. Additionally, linking social capital was used as a mediator and friendship network size as a moderator. This study was designed as cross-sectional and 2442 rural-urban migrants in both Xiamen (N = 1197) and Changsha (N = 1245) were recruited by using a multi-stage stratified probability proportional to size sampling method. The results showed a significantly negative mediating effect of linking social capital with a negative association between subjective relative deprivation and life satisfaction. Moreover, the number of friends moderated the effect of linking social capital on life satisfaction. This study confirmed a moderated mediation model and highlighted the importance of linking social capital and subjective relative deprivation in deciding life satisfaction of Chinese rural-to-urban migrant workers. Polities and purposeful action for enhancing social integration (i.e., interaction with community members and taking part in social and political activities) are advised to build a well-off society in China.
Impacts of Drought on Maize and Soybean Production in Northeast China During the Past Five Decades
Authors: Wang Chunyi , Linderholm Hans W. , Song Yanling , Wang Fang , Liu Yanju , Tian Jinfeng , Xu Jinxia , Song Yingbo , Ren Guoyu
Published: April 2020

Climate change has a distinct impact on agriculture in China, particularly in the northeast, a key agriculture area sensitive to extreme hydroclimate events. Using monthly climate and agriculture data, the influence of drought on maize and soybean yields—two of the main crops in the region—in northeast China since 1961 to 2017 were investigated. The results showed that the temperature in the growing season increased by 1.0 °C from the period 1998–2017 to the period 1961–1980, while the annual precipitation decreased slightly. However, precipitation trends varied throughout the growing season (May–September), increasing slightly in May and June, but decreasing in July, August and September, associated with the weakening of the East Asian summer monsoon. Consequently, the annual and growing season drought frequency increased by 15%, and 25%, respectively, in the period 1998–2017 relative to the period 1961–1980. The highest drought frequency (55%) was observed in September. At the same time, the drought intensity during the growing season increased by 7.8%. The increasing frequency and intensity of drought had negative influences on the two crops. During moderate drought years in the period 1961–2017, 3.2% and 10.4% of the provincial maize and soybean yields were lost, respectively. However, during more severe drought years, losses doubled for soybean (21.8%), but increased more than four-fold for maize (14.0%). Moreover, in comparison to the period 1961–1980, a higher proportion of the yields were lost in the period 1998–2017, particularly for maize, which increased by 15% (increase for soybean was 2.4%). This change largely depends on increasing droughts in August and September, when both crops are in their filling stages. The impact of drought on maize and soybean production was different during different growth stages, where a strong relationship was noted between drought and yield loss of soybean in its filling stage. Given the sensitivity of maize and soybean yields in northeast China to drought, and the observed production trends, climate change will likely have significant negative impacts on productivity in the future.
A Survey on Salt Content Labeling of the Processed Food Available in Malaysia
Authors: Haron Hasnah , Hiew Ivy , Shahar Suzana , Michael Viola , Ambak Rashidah
Published: April 2020

Salt content in processed foods is high, and it is usually used as preservatives, stabilizers, and color enhancers in the products. Increased consumption of processed foods in the modern world has contributed to a high salt intake and thus increased the prevalence of hypertension among Malaysian populations. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and compare salt content in processed food products available in supermarkets and determine the percentage of processed food products exceeding the reference value stated in International Product Criteria (2016). The percentage of processed food products without salt and sodium labeling was determined in this study, in which 76.5% of unlabeled processed food products were made in Malaysia, while 23.5% were imported products. The food group with the highest average salt content was gravy and sauce (3.97 g/100 g), followed by soup (2.95 g/100 g), cheese (2.14 g/100 g), meat (1.37 g/100 g), fish (1.25 g/100 g), chicken (1.20 g/100 g), vegetables (1.18 g/100 g), butter and margarine (1.13 g/100 g), breakfast cereal (0.94 g/100 g), savory snacks (0.90 g/100 g), flatbread (0.86 g/100 g), sweet snacks (0.30 g/100 g), and potato (0.29 g/100 g). In addition, 79.5% of butter and margarine products had an average salt content above the reference value stated in the International Product Criteria, followed by gravy and sauce (79.3%), vegetables (72%), soup (50%), fish (49.2%), breakfast cereal (41%), cheese (36.6%), potato (36%), savory and sweet snacks (29.1), meat (12.5%) and chicken products (2.3%). Most processed food products available in local supermarkets were high in salt content.
The Impact of the Direct Participation of Workers on the Rates of Absenteeism in the Spanish Labor Environment
Authors: Payá Castiblanque Raúl
Published: April 2020

The aim of this research was to study the relationship between the different levels of direct participation of workers (passive, consultative or active-delegated) in risk prevention management with the levels of absenteeism in Spain. To this end, a transversal study was carried out using microdata from the Second European Survey of Companies on New and Emerging Risks (ESENER-2-Spain, 2014) with a master population of 3162 work centres. A multinomial logistic regression model was carried out, with the dependent variable being the levels of absenteeism and the independent variables, the participation indicators and preventive management, calculating the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) between all the independent and control variables, with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% IC). The results obtained showed how the active-delegative participation of workers in the design and adoption of psychosocial risk prevention measures reported 2.33 less probabilities of having a very high or fairly high level of absenteeism (aOR = 0.43; 95%IC:0.27–0.69). However, having documented aspects of preventive management (plan, risk assessment, planning measures) did not have any impact on absenteeism levels, which shows that we can fall into an unrealistic institutional mirage of security with active policies of co-education or co-management being necessary to reduce absenteeism.
Occupational Hazards and Risks Associated with Phthalates among Slovakian Firefighters
Authors: Kolena Branislav , Petrovičová Ida , Šidlovská Miroslava , Hlisníková Henrieta , Bystričanová Lenka , Wimmerová Soňa , Trnovec Tomáš
Published: April 2020

Despite increasing attention to the occupational risk of firefighters, little is known about phthalate exposure. In our study, we detected mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n-buthyl phthalate (MnBP), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (5OH-MEHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (5cx-MECPP), and mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (5oxo-MEHP) in each urine sample. We detected positive association between MnBP, MiBP, mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), 5OH-MEHP, 5oxo-MEHP, 5cx-MECPP, mono-isononyl phthalate (MiNP), the sum of low (∑LMWP) and high molecular-weight phthalates (∑HMWP). and Tiffeneau–Pinelli index (the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1/ forced vital capacity; FEV1/FVC; p = 0.001−0.04) and the percent predicted value (%PV) of FEV1/FVC (p = 0.005−0.05) and negative association between MiNP and peak expiratory flow (PEF; r = −0.31; p = 0.084). We observed a positive association between phthalate metabolites (MnBP, 5OH-MEHP, 5oxo-MEHP, 5cx-MECPP, 2cx-MMHP, ∑LMWP, and ∑HMWP) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR; p = 0.003−0.09) and body shape index (ABSI; p = 0.039−0.09) and a negative association between MnBP, ∑LMWP, and hip circumference (p = 0.005−0.02). We detected association between concentrations of 5OH-MEHP, 5cx-MECPP, 5oxo-MEHP, and MnBP and consumption of food heating in plastic material in microwave (p = 0.02−0.04) and between probands who ate margarines and vegetable fat packed in plastic containers and concentration of MMP (p = 0.03). Results of multivariate regression indicated that exposure to phthalates could be linked with changing body structure, which subsequently affects values of pulmonary functions in firefighters.
Caffeine Consumption in Children: Innocuous or Deleterious? A Systematic Review
Authors: Torres-Ugalde Yeyetzi C. , Romero-Palencia Angélica , Román-Gutiérrez Alma D. , Ojeda-Ramírez Deyanira , Guzmán-Saldaña Rebeca M. E.
Published: April 2020

Caffeine is the most consumed psychostimulant worldwide. Its use among children is controversial. Although it produces an increase in brain activity, it could hamper growth and development in young consumers. Therefore, the aim of this review was to recognize changes produced by caffeine in children under 12 years of age and to identify the relevant alterations and the conditions of their occurrence. A systematic review of the literature was carried out using PRISMA. Initially, 5468 articles were found from the EBSCO, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Clarivate Analytics databases. In this review, were retained 24 published articles that met the inclusion criteria. The results obtained showed that caffeine consumption hampers children’s growth and development. In contrast, it supports the activation of the central nervous system and brain energy management.
Investigating the Strategies Adopted by Emergency Nurses to Address Uncertainty and Change in the Event of Emerging Infectious Diseases: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Lam Stanley K.K. , Kwong Enid W.Y. , Hung Maria S.Y. , Chien Wai-tong
Published: April 2020

Emergency nurses frequently encounter uncertainty and changes during the management of emerging infectious diseases, which challenge their capability to perform their duties in a well-planned and systematic manner. To date, little is known about the coping strategies adopted by emergency nurses in addressing uncertainty and changes during an epidemic event. The present study explored emergency nurses’ behaviours and strategies in handling uncertainty and practice changes during an epidemic event. A qualitative study based on the Straussian grounded theory approach was established. Semi-structured, face-to-face, individual interviews were conducted with 26 emergency nurses for data collection. Adapting protocol to the evolving context of practice was revealed as the core category. Four interplaying subcategories were identified: (1) Completing a comprehensive assessment, (2) continuing education for emerging infectious disease management, (3) incorporating guideline updates and (4) navigating new duties and competencies. The nurses demonstrated the prudence to orientate themselves to an ambiguous work situation and displayed the ability to adapt and embrace changes in their practice and duties. These findings offer insights into the need for education and training schemes that allow emergency nurses to acquire and develop the necessary decision-making and problem-solving skills to handle a public health emergency.
Targeted Integration of Inducible Caspase-9 in Human iPSCs Allows Efficient in vitro Clearance of iPSCs and iPSC-Macrophages
Authors: Lipus Alexandra , Janosz Ewa , Ackermann Mania , Hetzel Miriam , Dahlke Julia , Buchegger Theresa , Wunderlich Stephanie , Martin Ulrich , Cathomen Toni , Schambach Axel , Moritz Thomas , Lachmann Nico
Published: April 2020

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer great promise for the field of regenerative medicine, and iPSC-derived cells have already been applied in clinical practice. However, potential contamination of effector cells with residual pluripotent cells (e.g., teratoma-initiating cells) or effector cell-associated side effects may limit this approach. This also holds true for iPSC-derived hematopoietic cells. Given the therapeutic benefit of macrophages in different disease entities and the feasibility to derive macrophages from human iPSCs, we established human iPSCs harboring the inducible Caspase-9 (iCasp9) suicide safety switch utilizing transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN)-based designer nuclease technology. Mono- or bi-allelic integration of the iCasp9 gene cassette into the AAVS1 locus showed no effect on the pluripotency of human iPSCs and did not interfere with their differentiation towards macrophages. In both, iCasp9-mono and iCasp9-bi-allelic clones, concentrations of 0.1 nM AP20187 were sufficient to induce apoptosis in more than 98% of iPSCs and their progeny—macrophages. Thus, here we provide evidence that the introduction of the iCasp9 suicide gene into the AAVS1 locus enables the effective clearance of human iPSCs and thereof derived macrophages.
2-Aminopyridine Analogs Inhibit Both Enzymes of the Glyoxylate Shunt in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: McVey Alyssa C. , Bartlett Sean , Kajbaf Mahmud , Pellacani Annalisa , Gatta Viviana , Tammela Päivi , Spring David R. , Welch Martin
Published: April 2020

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen responsible for many hospital-acquired infections. P. aeruginosa can thrive in diverse infection scenarios by rewiring its central metabolism. An example of this is the production of biomass from C2 nutrient sources such as acetate via the glyoxylate shunt when glucose is not available. The glyoxylate shunt is comprised of two enzymes, isocitrate lyase (ICL) and malate synthase G (MS), and flux through the shunt is essential for the survival of the organism in mammalian systems. In this study, we characterized the mode of action and cytotoxicity of structural analogs of 2-aminopyridines, which have been identified by earlier work as being inhibitory to both shunt enzymes. Two of these analogs were able to inhibit ICL and MS in vitro and prevented growth of P. aeruginosa on acetate (indicating cell permeability). Moreover, the compounds exerted negligible cytotoxicity against three human cell lines and showed promising in vitro drug metabolism and safety profiles. Isothermal titration calorimetry was used to confirm binding of one of the analogs to ICL and MS, and the mode of enzyme inhibition was determined. Our data suggest that these 2-aminopyridine analogs have potential as anti-pseudomonal agents.
Comparative Study of Constipation Exacerbation by Potassium Binders Using a Loperamide-Induced Constipation Model
Authors: Narita Yuki , Fukumoto Koichi , Fukunaga Masaki , Kondo Yuki , Ishitsuka Yoichi , Jono Hirofumi , Irie Tetsumi , Saito Hideyuki , Kadowaki Daisuke , Hirata Sumio
Published: April 2020

Patients on dialysis are frequently administered high doses of potassium binders such as calcium polystyrene sulfonate (CPS) and sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS), which exacerbate constipation. Here, we compare the degree of constipation induced by CPS and SPS using a loperamide-induced constipation model to identify the safer potassium binder. Constipation model was created by twice-daily intraperitoneal administration (ip) of loperamide hydrochloride (Lop; 1 mg/kg body weight) in rats for 3 days. Rats were assigned to a control group, Lop group, Lop + CPS group or Lop + SPS group, and a crossover comparative study was performed. Defecation status (number of feces, feces wet weight, fecal water content and gastrointestinal transit time (GTT)) was evaluated. In the Lop + CPS group, GTT was significantly longer, and fecal water content was reduced. In the Lop + SPS group—although the fecal water content and GTT were unaffected—the number of fecal pellets and the fecal wet weight improved. Thus, SPS was less likely to cause constipation exacerbation than CPS. Considering the high frequency of constipation in dialysis patients with hyperkalemia, preferentially administering SPS over CPS may prevent constipation exacerbation.
Hydroxychloroquine Mitigates the Production of 8-Isoprostane and Improves Vascular Dysfunction: Implications for Treating Preeclampsia
Authors: Rahman Rahana Abd , Murthi Padma , Singh Harmeet , Gurungsinghe Seshini , Leaw Bryan , Mockler Joanne C. , Lim Rebecca , Wallace Euan M.
Published: April 2020

In preeclampsia, widespread maternal endothelial dysfunction is often secondary to excessive generation of placental-derived anti-angiogenic factors, including soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and soluble endoglin (sEng), along with proinflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and activin A, understanding of which offers potential opportunities for the development of novel therapies. The antimalarial hydroxychloroquine is an anti-inflammatory drug improving endothelial homeostasis in lupus. It has not been explored as to whether it can improve placental and endothelial function in preeclampsia. In this in vitro study, term placental explants were used to assess the effects of hydroxychloroquine on placental production of sFlt-1, sEng, TNF-α, activin A, and 8-isoprostane after exposure to hypoxic injury or oxidative stress. Similarly, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to assess the effects of hydroxychloroquine on in vitro markers of endothelial dysfunction. Hydroxychloroquine had no effect on the release of sFlt-1, sEng, TNF-α, activin A, or 8-isoprostane from placental explants exposed to hypoxic injury or oxidative stress. However, hydroxychloroquine mitigated TNF-α-induced HUVEC production of 8-isoprostane and Nicotinanamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase expression. Hydroxychloroquine also mitigated TNF-α and preeclamptic serum-induced HUVEC monolayer permeability and rescued the loss of zona occludens protein zona occludens 1 (ZO-1). Although hydroxychloroquine had no apparent effects on trophoblast function, it may be a useful endothelial protectant in women presenting with preeclampsia.
Modulation of Sensory Nerve Function by Insulin: Possible Relevance to Pain, Inflammation and Axon Growth
Authors: Lázár Bence András , Jancsó Gábor , Sántha Péter
Published: April 2020

Insulin, besides its pivotal role in energy metabolism, may also modulate neuronal processes through acting on insulin receptors (InsRs) expressed by neurons of both the central and the peripheral nervous system. Recently, the distribution and functional significance of InsRs localized on a subset of multifunctional primary sensory neurons (PSNs) have been revealed. Systematic investigations into the cellular electrophysiology, neurochemistry and morphological traits of InsR-expressing PSNs indicated complex functional interactions among specific ion channels, proteins and neuropeptides localized in these neurons. Quantitative immunohistochemical studies have revealed disparate localization of the InsRs in somatic and visceral PSNs with a dominance of InsR-positive neurons innervating visceral organs. These findings suggested that visceral spinal PSNs involved in nociceptive and inflammatory processes are more prone to the modulatory effects of insulin than somatic PSNs. Co-localization of the InsR and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptor with vasoactive neuropeptides calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P bears of crucial importance in the pathogenesis of inflammatory pathologies affecting visceral organs, such as the pancreas and the urinary bladder. Recent studies have also revealed significant novel aspects of the neurotrophic propensities of insulin with respect to axonal growth, development and regeneration.
Potential Molecular Pathways Related to Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm Development: Lessons to Learn from the Aorta
Authors: Nuche Jorge , Palomino-Doza Julián , Ynsaurriaga Fernando Arribas , Delgado Juan F. , Ibáñez Borja , Oliver Eduardo , Subías Pilar Escribano
Published: April 2020

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease caused by pulmonary vascular remodeling. Current vasodilator treatments have substantially improved patients’ survival. This improved survival has led to the appearance of complications related to conditions previously underdiagnosed or even ignored, such as pulmonary artery aneurysm (PAA). The presence of a dilated pulmonary artery has been shown to be related to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death among PAH patients. This increased risk could be associated to the development of left main coronary artery compression or pulmonary artery dissection. Nevertheless, very little is currently known about the molecular mechanisms related to PAA. Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a well-known condition with an increased risk of sudden death caused by acute aortic dissection. TAA may be secondary to chronic exposure to classic cardiovascular risk factors. In addition, a number of genetic variants have been shown to be related to a marked risk of TAA and dissection as part of multisystemic syndromes or isolated familial TAA. The molecular pathways implied in the development of TAA have been widely studied and described. Many of these molecular pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of PAH and could be involved in PAA. This review aims to describe all these common pathways to open new research lines that could help lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of PAH and PAA and their clinical implications.
The Role of Bcl-xL Protein Research in Veterinary Oncology
Authors: Pawlak Aleksandra , Henklewska Marta
Published: April 2020

Due to their significant impact on human and animal health, cancer diseases are an area of considerable concern for both human and veterinary medicine. Research on the cancer pathogenesis in companion animals, such as dogs, allows not only for improving canine cancer treatment, but also for translating the results into human oncology. Disruption of apoptosis in tumor-transformed cells is a well-known mechanism leading to the development of cancer. One of the main factors involved in this process are proteins belonging to the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family, and the imbalance between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic members of this family contributes to the development of cancer. Studies on the function of these proteins, including B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL), have also been intensively conducted in companion animals. The Bcl-xL gene was sequenced and found to share over 99% homology with the human protein. Research showed that the Bcl-2 family plays the same role in human and canine cells, and data from studies in dogs are fully translatable to other species, including humans. The role of this protein family in cancer development was also confirmed. The article presents the current state of knowledge on the importance of the Bcl-xL protein in veterinary oncology.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Kinetic Study of Fluoride Binding to V21C/V66C Myoglobin with a Cytoglobin-like Disulfide Bond
Authors: Yin Lu-Lu , Xu Jia-Kun , Wang Xiao-Juan , Gao Shu-Qin , Lin Ying-Wu
Published: April 2020

Protein design is able to create artificial proteins with advanced functions, and computer simulation plays a key role in guiding the rational design. In the absence of structural evidence for cytoglobin (Cgb) with an intramolecular disulfide bond, we recently designed a de novo disulfide bond in myoglobin (Mb) based on structural alignment (i.e., V21C/V66C Mb double mutant). To provide deep insight into the regulation role of the Cys21-Cys66 disulfide bond, we herein perform molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of the fluoride–protein complex by using a fluoride ion as a probe, which reveals detailed interactions of the fluoride ion in the heme distal pocket, involving both the distal His64 and water molecules. Moreover, we determined the kinetic parameters of fluoride binding to the double mutant. The results agree with the MD simulation and show that the formation of the Cys21-Cys66 disulfide bond facilitates both fluoride binding to and dissociating from the heme iron. Therefore, the combination of theoretical and experimental studies provides valuable information for understanding the structure and function of heme proteins, as regulated by a disulfide bond. This study is thus able to guide the rational design of artificial proteins with tunable functions in the future.
Imatinib Sets Pericyte Mosaic in the Retina
Authors: Kovács-Öller Tamás , Ivanova Elena , Szarka Gergely , Tengölics Ádám J. , Völgyi Béla , Sagdullaev Botir T.
Published: April 2020

The nervous system demands an adequate oxygen and metabolite exchange, making pericytes (PCs), the only vasoactive cells on the capillaries, essential to neural function. Loss of PCs is a hallmark of multiple diseases, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson’s. Platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRs) have been shown to be critical to PC function and survival. However, how PDGFR-mediated PC activity affects vascular homeostasis is not fully understood. Here, we tested the hypothesis that imatinib, a chemotherapeutic agent and a potent PDGFR inhibitor, alters PC distribution and thus induces vascular atrophy. We performed a morphometric analysis of the vascular elements in sham control and imatinib-treated NG2-DsRed mice. Vascular morphology and the integrity of the blood–retina barrier (BRB) were evaluated using blood albumin labeling. We found that imatinib decreased the number of PCs and blood vessel (BV) coverage in all retinal vascular layers; this was accompanied by a shrinkage of BV diameters. Surprisingly, the total length of capillaries was not altered, suggesting a preferential effect of imatinib on PCs. Furthermore, blood–retina barrier disruption was not evident. In conclusion, our data suggest that imatinib could help in treating neurovascular diseases and serve as a model for PC loss, without BRB disruption.
Metabolomic Studies of Lipid Storage Disorders, with Special Reference to Niemann-Pick Type C Disease: A Critical Review with Future Perspectives
Authors: Percival Benita Claire , Gibson Miles , Wilson Philippe B. , Platt Frances M. , Grootveld Martin
Published: April 2020

Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are predominantly very rare recessive autosomal neurodegenerative diseases.Sphingolipidoses, a sub-group of LSDs, result from defects in lysosomal enzymes involved in sphingolipid catabolism, and feature disrupted storage systems which trigger complex pathogenic cascades with other organelles collaterally affected. This process leads to cell dysfunction and death, particularly in the central nervous system. One valuable approach to gaining insights into the global impact of lysosomal dysfunction is through metabolomics, which represents a discovery tool for investigating disease-induced modifications in the patterns of large numbers of simultaneously-analysed metabolites, which also features the identification of biomarkers Here, the scope and applications of metabolomics strategies to the investigation of sphingolipidoses is explored in order to facilitate our understanding of the biomolecular basis of these conditions. This review therefore surveys the benefits of applying ’state-of-the-art’ metabolomics strategies, both univariate and multivariate, to sphingolipidoses, particularly Niemann-Pick type C disease. Relevant limitations of these techniques are also discussed, along with the latest advances and developments. We conclude that metabolomics strategies are highly valuable, distinctive bioanalytical techniques for probing LSDs, most especially for the detection and validation of potential biomarkers. They also show much promise for monitoring disease progression and the evaluation of therapeutic strategies and targets.
Insight into the Functional Diversification of Lipases in the Endoparasitoid Pteromalus puparum (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) by Genome-scale Annotation and Expression Analysis
Authors: Wang Jiale , Song Jiqiang , Fang Qi , Yao Hongwei , Wang Fang , Song Qisheng , Ye Gongyin
Published: April 2020

Lipases play essential roles in digestion, transport, and processing of dietary lipids in insects. For parasitoid wasps with a unique life cycle, lipase functions could be multitudinous in particular. Pteromalus puparum is a pupal endoparasitoid of butterflies. The female adult deposits eggs into its host, along with multifunctional venom, and the developing larvae consume host as its main nutrition source. Parasitoid lipases are known to participate in the food digestion process, but the mechanism remains unclear. P. puparum genome and transcriptome data were interrogated. Multiple alignments and phylogenetic trees were constructed. We annotated a total of 64 predicted lipase genes belonging to five lipase families and suggested that eight venom and four salivary lipases could determine host nutrition environment post-parasitization. Many putative venom lipases were found with incomplete catalytic triads, relatively long β9 loops, and short lids. Data analysis reveals the loss of catalytic activities and weak triacylglycerol (TAG) hydrolytic activities of lipases in venom. Phylogenetic trees indicate various predicted functions of lipases in P. puparum. Our information enriches the database of parasitoid lipases and the knowledge of their functional diversification, providing novel insight into how parasitoid wasps manipulate host lipid storage by using venom lipases.
Risk Prediction and Assessment: Duration, Infections, and Death Toll of the COVID-19 and Its Impact on China’s Economy
Authors: Yue Xiao-Guang , Shao Xue-Feng , Li Rita Yi Man , Crabbe M. James C. , Mi Lili , Hu Siyan , Baker Julien S , Liu Liting , Dong Kechen
Published: April 2020

This study first analyzes the national and global infection status of the Coronavirus Disease that emerged in 2019 (COVID-19). It then uses the trend comparison method to predict the inflection point and Key Point of the COVID-19 virus by comparison with the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) graphs, followed by using the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model, Autoregressive Moving Average model, Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving-Average with Exogenous Regressors, and Holt Winter’s Exponential Smoothing to predict infections, deaths, and GDP in China. Finally, it discusses and assesses the impact of these results. This study argues that even if the risks and impacts of the epidemic are significant, China’s economy will continue to maintain steady development.
European Bank’s Performance and Efficiency
Authors: Neves Maria Elisabete Duarte , Gouveia Maria Do Castelo , Proença Catarina Alexandra Neves
Published: April 2020

The research interest in bank profitability and efficiency is linked to the economic situation and an important issue for policymakers is to ensure economic stability. Nevertheless, managerial decisions and the environment could play a critical role in ensuring proper and efficient allocation of the resources. The purpose of this study is to understand which are the main factors that can influence the performance and efficiency of 94 commercial listed banks from Eurozone countries through a dynamic evaluation, in the period between 2011 and 2016. To achieve this aim, the generalized method of moments estimator technique is used to analyze the influence of some bank-specific characteristics, controlled by management, on the profitability as a measure of bank performance. After that, through the value-based data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology, those factors are considered in determining the efficient banks. The results show that banking efficiency depends on set bank-specific characteristics and that the effect of determinants on efficiency differs, considering the macroeconomic conditions.
Synthesis of Environmentally Friendly Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Resin with Low VOC
Authors: Fan Licheng , Wei Lijuan , Zhu Yongfei , Wang Yibo , Fei Jianmin , Li Yang
Published: April 2020

Most acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) resin is plagued by an unpleasant odor attributed to the high residual volatile organic compound (VOC) content. This paper primarily aimed to solve the odor issue of ABS resin by effectively reducing the VOC content. To that end, a synthesis of ABS resins was optimized through a supercritical extraction process while evaluating multiple novel chain transfer agents (linear dimer of α-methyl-styrene, methyl 3-mercaptopropionate, and dodecyl mercaptan). ABS resin obtained through a α-methyl-styrene chain transfer agent demonstrated the lowest odor. Moreover, it had the least amount of VOC content which was three times lower than when dodecyl mercaptan was employed. To improve the supercritical extraction process, an orthogonal test was designed to optimize four main process parameters: extrusion temperature, residence time, vacuum degree and extractant dosage. The most optimal conditions were found to be 250 °C extrusion temperature, one minute residence time, vacuum degree of minus 99 KPa, and 1.5% CO2 extractant dosage.
Effect of the Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) on Dental Implants Stability: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Nayak Bhukya P. , Dolkart Oleg , Satwalekar Parth , Kumar Yeramala P. , Chandrasekar Anam , Fromovich Ophir , Yakobson Elad , Barak Shlomo , Dayube Ulisses , Shibli Jamil A.
Published: April 2020

A pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) has been shown to contribute to heightening bone regeneration in a range of clinical areas, including dentistry. Due to the scarcity of studies using PEMF in oral implantology, the present experiment scrutinized the effect of PEMF can lead to improving the stability of the implant. A total of 19 subjects (40 implants in total) were selected to participate in the current study and were randomly allocated to either the PEMF group or control group. Subjects in the PEMF group received an activated miniaturized electromagnetic device (MED) while the control group received a sham healing cup. Implants stability was assessed by resonance frequency analyses (RFA) via implant stability quotient (ISQ) calculations. RFA were recorded as following: immediately after procedure, and then 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks later. Radiographic analysis was performed at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks after implant placement. Proinflammatory cytokines were evaluated in peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF). The PEMF group presented higher ISQ mean values when compared to the control group. The primary stability time frame (the first 2 weeks) MED group depicted an increase in stability of 6.8%, compared to a decrease of 7.6% in the control group related to the baseline. An overall stability increase of 13% was found in MED treated group (p = 0.02), in contrast, the overall stability in the control group decreased by 2% (p = 0.008). TNF-α concentration during first 4 weeks was lower in the MED treated group. The data strongly suggests that MED generated continuing a PEMF may be considered as a new way to stimulate the stability of the implants at the early healing period.
Shear Testing of the Interfacial Friction Between an HDPE Geomembrane and Solid Waste
Authors: Zhou Luming , Zhu Zhende , Yu Zhenpeng , Zhang Cong
Published: April 2020

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembrane is often used as an anti-seepage material in domestic and industrial solid waste landfills. To study the interfacial shear strength between the HDPE anti-seepage geomembrane and various solid wastes, we performed direct shear tests on the contact interface between nine types of industrial solid waste or soil (desulfurization gypsum, fly ash, red mud, mercury slag, lead-zinc slag, manganese slag, silica fume, clay and sand) and a geomembrane with a smooth or rough surface in Guizhou Province, China. Friction strength parameters like the interfacial friction angle and the apparent cohesion between the HDPE geomembrane and various solid wastes were measured to analyze the shear strength of the interface between a geomembrane with either a smooth or a rough surface and various solid wastes. The interfacial shear stress between the HDPE geomembrane and the industrial solid waste increased with shear displacement and the slope of the stress-displacement curve decreased gradually. When shear displacement increased to a certain range, the shear stress at the interface remained unchanged. The interfacial shear strength between the geomembrane with a rough surface and the solid waste was higher than for the geomembrane with a smooth surface. Consequentially, the interfacial friction angle for the geomembrane with a rough surface was larger. The geomembrane with a rough surface had a better shear resistance and the shear characteristics fully developed when it was in full contact with the solid waste.
Diatoms Biomass as a Joint Source of Biosilica and Carbon for Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Nowak Andrzej P. , Sprynskyy Myroslav , Wojtczak Izabela , Trzciński Konrad , Wysocka Joanna , Szkoda Mariusz , Buszewski Bogusław , Lisowska-Oleksiak Anna
Published: April 2020

The biomass of one type cultivated diatoms (Pseudostaurosira trainorii), being a source of 3D-stuctured biosilica and organic matter—the source of carbon, was thermally processed to become an electroactive material in a potential range adequate to become an anode in lithium ion batteries. Carbonized material was characterized by means of selected solid-state physics techniques (XRD, Raman, TGA). It was shown that the pyrolysis temperature (600 °C, 800 °C, 1000 °C) affected structural and electrochemical properties of the electrode material. Biomass carbonized at 600 °C exhibited the best electrochemical properties reaching a specific discharge capacity of 460 mAh g−1 for the 70th cycle. Such a value indicates the possibility of usage of biosilica as an electrode material in energy storage applications.
Development of Sustained-Release Ophthalmic Formulation Based on Tranilast Solid Nanoparticles
Authors: Minami Misa , Seiriki Ryotaro , Otake Hiroko , Nakazawa Yosuke , Kanai Kazutaka , Tanino Tadatoshi , Nagai Noriaki
Published: April 2020

Eye drops containing Tranilast (TL), N-(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl) anthramilic acid, are used as an anti-allergic conjunctivitis drug in the ophthalmic field. Traditional eye drops are very patient compliant, although the bioavailability (BA) of most eye drops is low since eye drops cannot be instilled beyond the capacity of the conjunctival sac due to its limited volume. Thus, traditional eye drops have low BA and a short duration of the drug on the ocular surface, so solutions to these problems are highly anticipated. In this study, we designed a sustained-release drug-delivery system (DDS) for TL nanoparticles. TL nanoparticles were prepared by bead mill treatment, and the gel formulations containing TL nanoparticles (TL-NPs-Gel, particle size 50 nm–100 nm) were provided by carboxypolymethylene. The crystal structure of TL with and without bead mill treatment is the same, but the TL solubility in formulations containing nanoparticles was 5.3-fold higher compared with gel formulations containing TL microparticles (TL-MPs-Gel). The photo and thermal stabilities of TL-NPs-Gel are also higher than those of dissolved TL. Moreover, when TL-NPs-Gel is applied to the upper eyelid skin (outside), the TL is released as nanoparticles, and delivered to the lacrimal fluid through the meibomian glands. In addition, the TL release profile for TL-NPs-Gel was sustained over 180 min after the treatment. These findings can be used to develop a sustained-release DDS in the ophthalmic field.
Capillary Uptake Monitoring in Lime-Hemp-Perlite Composite Using the Time Domain Reflectometry Sensing Technique for Moisture Detection in Building Composites
Authors: Brzyski Przemysław , Suchorab Zbigniew
Published: April 2020

The use of waste plants in the production of building materials is consistent with the principles of sustainable development. One of the ideas involves using hemp shives as an aggregate for the production of a composite used as a filling of the timber frame construction of the walls. The most important disadvantage of using the building materials based on organic components is their susceptibility to the water influence. The wall material is exposed to rising groundwater. The research part of the paper presented the preparation method and the investigation of the hemp-perlite-lime composites. Flexural and compressive strength, apparent density, total porosity, thermal conductivity, and mass absorptivity were examined. The main research part pertained to the analysis of capillary uptake occurrence in the composites, being the important phenomenon present in the external walls. The study on this phenomenon was carried out using the technique of indirect moisture evaluation—Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR). The indirect readouts were additionally verified with the traditional evaluation using the gravimetric method based on the PN-EN 1925 standard. The study proved that the tested composites were characterized by low apparent density, thermal conductivity, strength parameters, high total porosity, and mass absorptivity. The partial replacement of hemp shives by expanded perlite had a beneficial effect on the tested properties of composites.