bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineered Orange Ectopically Expressing the Arabidopsis β-Caryophyllene Synthase Is Not Attractive to Diaphorina citri, the Vector of the Bacterial Pathogen Associated to Huanglongbing
Authors: Alquézar Berta , Volpe Haroldo Xavier Linhares , Magnani Rodrigo Facchini , de Miranda Marcelo Pedreira , Santos Mateus Almeida , Marques Viviani Vieira , de Almeida Márcia Rodrigues , Wulff Nelson Arno , Ting Hieng-Ming , de Vries Michel , Schuurink Robert , Bouwmeester Harro , Peña Leandro
Published: March 2021

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a destructive disease, associated with psyllid-transmitted phloem-restricted pathogenic bacteria, which is seriously endangering citriculture worldwide. It affects all citrus species and cultivars regardless of the rootstock used, and despite intensive research in the last decades, there is no effective cure to control either the bacterial species (Candidatus Liberibacter spp.) or their insect vectors (Diaphorina citri and Trioza erytreae). Currently, the best attempts to manage HLB are based on three approaches: (i) reducing the psyllid population by intensive insecticide treatments; (ii) reducing inoculum sources by removing infected trees, and (iii) using nursery-certified healthy plants for replanting. The economic losses caused by HLB (decreased fruit quality, reduced yield, and tree destruction) and the huge environmental costs of disease management seriously threaten the sustainability of the citrus industry in affected regions. Here, we have generated genetically modified sweet orange lines to constitutively emit (E)-β-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene repellent to D. citri, the main HLB psyllid vector. We demonstrate that this alteration in volatile emission affects behavioral responses of the psyllid in olfactometric and no-choice assays, making them repellent/less attractant to the HLB vector, opening a new alternative for possible HLB control in the field.
The Relationship Among Trait Mindfulness, Attention, and Working Memory in Junior School Students Under Different Stressful Situations
Authors: Li Yuntao , Yang Ningxi , Zhang Yan , Xu Wei , Cai Li
Published: March 2021

Attention and working memory are important cognitive functions that affect junior school students’ learning ability and academic performance. This study aimed to explore the relationships among trait mindfulness, attention, and working memory and to explore differences in performance between a high trait mindfulness group and a low one in attention and working memory under different stressful situations. In study 1, 216 junior school students completed the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), and their attention and working memory were tested in a non-pressure situation. The results showed that attention had a partial mediating effect between mindfulness and working memory. In study 2, the high trait mindfulness group and the low one were tested for attention and working memory under situations with single and multiple pressures. One notable result was that the attention and working memory performances of the high mindfulness group were all significantly higher than those of the low mindfulness group in every stress situation (no stress, single stress, and multiple stresses). Other important results were that trait mindfulness moderates the relationship between stress and attention and between stress and working memory. These results suggest that trait mindfulness has a protective effect in the process by which various stresses affect attention and working memory. These findings indicate that trait mindfulness is an important psychological quality that affects the attention and working memory of junior school students, and it is also an important psychological resource for effectively coping with the impact of stress on attention and working memory. Therefore, it is possible that improving trait mindfulness may help to improve junior school students’ attention and working memory and enable them to cope better with stress, thereby helping to improve academic performance. This research is of great significance for understanding the association between key psychological qualities and cognitive functions in different stressful situations. These findings also provide insight for future studies in educational psychology.
The Arousal Effect of Exclusionary and Inclusionary Situations on Social Affiliation Motivation and Its Subsequent Influence on Prosocial Behavior
Authors: Cuadrado Esther , Tabernero Carmen , Hidalgo-Muñoz Antonio R. , Luque Bárbara , Castillo-Mayén Rosario
Published: March 2021

Given the negative costs of exclusion and the relevance of belongingness for humans, the experience of exclusion influences social affiliation motivation, which in turn is a relevant predictor of prosocial behavior. Skin conductance is a typical measure of the arousal elicited by emotions. Hence, we argued that both inclusion and exclusion will increase skin conductance level due to the increase of either positive affect or anger affects, respectively. Moreover, we argued that emotional arousal is also related to social affiliation motivation and prosocial behavior. A total of 48 students were randomly allocated to either an inclusionary or exclusionary condition and their skin conductance levels were recorded during an experiment in which they completed an online questionnaire and played the game “Cyberball.” Results indicated that (a) individuals who perceived high exclusion felt angrier than individuals perceiving high inclusion, who feel positive affect; (b) no differences were evidenced in terms of skin conductance between exclusion and inclusion situations; (c) over-aroused individuals were less motivated to affiliate; and (d) individuals with lower affiliation motivation behaved in a less prosocial way. The results were congruent to the argument that behaving prosocially may be a way to gain the desired affiliation.
Assessment of Quarantine Understanding and Adherence to Lockdown Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Palestine: Community Experience and Evidence for Action
Authors: Al Zabadi Hamzeh , Yaseen Noor , Alhroub Thair , Haj-Yahya Maryam
Published: March 2021

Background: Containment of the coronavirus pandemic relied extensively on the combination of early implementation of quarantine and massive behavioral changes to ensure effectiveness. Decision-makers need to constantly monitor the outbreak situation and the impact of the measures implemented. Yet little is known about the factors influencing adherence and understanding of lockdown measures among the Palestinian community. This study aimed to assess the impact and factors affecting these early public health interventions.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional web-based questionnaire was distributed throughout social media (Facebook and Instagram). We used a snowball recruiting technique to target Palestinian adult citizens during the coronavirus pandemic quarantine between 6 and 16 April 2020, which corresponded to almost the middle interval of the strict massive lockdown measures in Palestine that lasted from 22 March to 5 May 2020. Multivariate logistic regression models were developed for the outcome variables (staying home adherence, in-home precautions adherence, and quarantine understanding).

Results: Our questionnaire was completed by 2,819 participants. The mean (range) age was 29.47 (18–71) years. Of them, 1,144 (40.6%), 1,261 (44.7%), and 1,283 (45.5%) reported low levels of staying home adherence, in-home precautions adherence, and quarantine understanding, respectively. Females, city residents, those with higher educational levels, and those informed by official government sources were associated significantly with higher levels of both staying home adherence and quarantine understanding. Adequate food supply was associated with a higher level of staying home adherence. Higher levels of in-home precautions adherence were noticed in the elderly and those with a high-risk group living at home. Higher monthly income was inversely associated with higher levels of in-home precautions adherence and lower levels of quarantine understanding (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The socio-economic and financial status of the general population and coordination between the major information resources (official government), social media, and the press were the major factors affecting the community in regard to quarantine adherence. For maximum effectiveness and commitment levels amongst the people to decrease the spread of infection, policymakers need to address all those factors. In addition, clear communication between policymakers and the population is essential for reassuring the people and minimizing their fears regarding the unknown future.
Machine Vision Navigation in Spine Surgery
Authors: Kalfas Iain H.
Published: March 2021

The advancements in computing and digital localizer technologies has led to the evolving clinical application of image-guided technology for the surgical management of spinal disorders. Image-guided spinal navigation addresses the limitations of fluoroscopy and improves the accurate placement of fixation screws. Several navigation platforms are currently available, each having its own unique advantages and disadvantages. The most recent spinal navigation system developed utilizes machine vision structured light imaging which creates a precise and detailed three-dimensional image of the exposed surface anatomy and co-registers it to a pre-operatively or intra-operatively acquired image. This system improves upon the intraoperative workflow and efficiency of the navigation process. With the continued advancements in machine vision, there is a potential for clinical applications that extend beyond surgical navigation. These applications include reducing the potential for wrong level spine surgery and providing for real-time tracking of spinal deformity correction. As the adoption and clinical experience with navigation continues to expand and evolve, the technology that enables navigation also continues to evolve.
Canine Brucellosis: An Update
Authors: Santos Renato L. , Souza Tayse D. , Mol Juliana P. S. , Eckstein Camila , Paíxão Tatiane A.
Published: March 2021

Canine brucellosis is an infectious and zoonotic disease caused byBrucella canis, which has been reported worldwide, and is a major public health concern due to close contact between dogs and humans. In dogs, canine brucellosis manifests with abortion outbreaks, reproductive failure, enlargement of lymph nodes, and occasionally affects the osteoarticular system, although the occurrence of asymptomatic infections in dogs are not uncommon. In humans, the disease is associated with a febrile syndrome, commonly with non-specific symptoms including splenomegaly, fatigue, and weakness. Infection of dogs occurs mostly by the oronasal route when in contact with contaminated tissues such as aborted fetuses, semen, urine, and vaginal secretions. In humans, contact with contaminated fluids from infected dogs is an important source of infection, and it is an occupational risk for veterinarians, breeders, laboratory workers, among other professionals who deal with infected animals or biological samples. The diagnosis in dogs is largely based on serologic methods. However, serologic diagnosis of canine brucellosis remains very challenging due to the low accuracy of available tests. Molecular diagnostic methods have been increasingly used in the past few years. Treatment of infected dogs is associated with a high frequency of relapse, and should be employed only in selected cases. Currently there are no commercially available vaccines for prevention of canine brucellosis. Therefore, development of novel and improved diagnostic methods as well as the development of efficacious and safe vaccination protocols are needed for an effective control of canine brucellosis and its associated zoonotic risk.
Isolation and Characterization of a Porcine Transmissible Gastroenteritis Coronavirus in Northeast China
Authors: Yuan Dongwei , Yan Zihan , Li Mingyue , Wang Yi , Su Mingjun , Sun Dongbo
Published: March 2021

Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) is a coronavirus (CoV) that is a major pathogenity of viral enteritis and diarrhea in suckling piglets, causing high morbidity and mortality. In this study, a TGEV strain HQ2016 was isolated from northeast China and characterized its genome sequence and pathogenicity. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the TGEV HQ2016 strain was more similar to the TGEV Purdue cluster than to the Miller cluster. Both recombination and phylogenetic analysis based on each structural and non-structural gene revealed no recombination event in the HQ2016 strain. Experimental infection study using colostrum-deprived newborn piglets successfully showed that the HQ2016 can cause clinical symptoms including anorexia and yellow-to-whitish watery diarrhea, which are characteristics of TGE, in the inoculated piglets 48 h post-inoculation. These results provide valuable information about the evolution of the porcine CoVs.
An ARX Model-Based Predictive Control of a Semi-Active Vehicle Suspension to Improve Passenger Comfort and Road-Holding
Authors: Piñón Alejandro , Favela-Contreras Antonio , Félix-Herrán Luis C. , Beltran-Carbajal Francisco , Lozoya Camilo
Published: March 2021

Passenger comfort and vehicle stability are key aspects that must be guaranteed on ground vehicles, and semi-active suspensions have offered an outstanding solution to meet these opposite objectives. This contribution describes a novel autoregressive with exogenous input (ARX) model-based predictive control strategy handled by a driver block applied on a semi-active vehicle suspension to improve passenger comfort and road holding when compared against a passive vehicle suspension system and another more complex control designs reported in the literature. The ARX model employs a driver block to reduce the computational load of the closed-loop semi-active suspension. In addition, the controller’s formulation and the case study consider the actuator’s physical constraints to achieve more realistic results. This case-study includes a one-quarter semi-active suspension with two degrees-of-freedom, and the numerical data comes from a real magnetorheological damper characterization. The results, in frequency-domain and time-domain, are measured based on specific performance criteria. A substantial improvement against a passive suspension is quantified and discussed. For a broader perspective of the findings, the results are compared against another reported work. This research effort could be the basis of further studies to achieve more robust solutions such as adaptive/optimal predictive controllers to improve vehicle’s comfort and stability.
Canid Reproductive Biology: Norm and Unique Aspects in Strategies and Mechanisms
Authors: Nagashima Jennifer B. , Songsasen Nucharin
Published: March 2021

The reproductive physiology of canids is unique compared to other mammalian species. Specifically, the reproductive cycle of female canids is characterized by extended periods of proestrus and estrus followed by obligatory diestrus and protracted ovarian inactivity (anestrus). Although canid reproduction follows this general pattern, studies have shown variations in reproductive biology among species and geographic regions. Understanding of these differences is critical to the development of assisted reproductive technologies including estrus induction, gamete rescue, and embryo production techniques for canid conservation efforts. This review summarizes current knowledge of canid reproduction, including estrus cyclicity, seasonality, and seminal traits, with the emphasis on species diversity. The application of reproductive technologies in wild canid conservation will also be discussed.
Histochemical Characterisation and Gene Expression Analysis of Skeletal Muscles from Maremmana and Aubrac Steers Reared on Grazing and Feedlot Systems
Authors: Foggi Giulia , Ciucci Francesca , Conte Maria , Casarosa Laura , Serra Andrea , Giannessi Elisabetta , Lenzi Carla , Salvioli Stefano , Conte Giuseppe , Mele Marcello
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to characterise the fibre composition of Triceps brachii (TB) and Semimembranosus (SM) muscles from 20 Maremmana (MA) and 20 Aubrac (AU) steers, and the effect of grazing activity in comparison with feedlot system. The histochemical method was performed with the m-ATPase method with an acid pre-incubation, thus allowing to distinguish type I, IIA, and IIB fibres. Additionally, on total RNA extracted from SM muscle, the expressions of atp1a1, mt-atp6, and capn1 genes were evaluated, in order to find potential associations with muscle fibre histochemical characteristics. In SM muscle, the MA steers had the greater frequency of oxidative fibres (type I and IIA) and the higher atp1a1 expression, in comparison to AU steers. Conversely, AU steers had a greater frequency of type IIB fibres, and the higher capn1 expression. A similar histochemical pattern was observed in TB muscle. The grazing activity was probably insufficient to determine differences both for fibre proportion and size, and gene expressions, except for mt-atp6 expression that was surprisingly highest in feedlot MA in comparison to other steers. These findings further the knowledge of muscle properties belonging to these breeds, and the effect of voluntary physical activity since few studies were available in this regard.
X-Linked Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia in Crossbred Beef Cattle Due to a Large Deletion in EDA
Authors: O’Toole Donal , Häfliger Irene M. , Leuthard Fabienne , Schumaker Brant , Steadman Lynn , Murphy Brian , Drögemüller Cord , Leeb Tosso
Published: March 2021

X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia-1 (ECTD1) in people results in a spectrum of abnormalities, most importantly hypotrichosis, anodontia/oligodontia, and absent or defective ectodermally derived glands. Five Red Angus-Simmental calves born over a 6-year period demonstrated severe hypotrichosis and were diagnosed as affected with ECTD1-like syndrome. Two died of severe pneumonia within a week of birth. The skin of three affected calves revealed a predominance of histologically unremarkable small-caliber hair follicles. Larger follicles (>50 µm) containing medullated hairs (including guard and tactile hairs) were largely restricted to the muzzle, chin, tail, eyelids, tragus and distal portions of the limbs and tail. The mean histological density of hair follicles in flank skin of two affected calves was slightly greater than that in two unaffected calves. One affected calf was examined postmortem at 10 days of age to better characterize systemic lesions. Nasolabial, intranasal and tracheobronchial mucosal glands were absent, whereas olfactory glands were unaffected. Mandibular incisor teeth were absent. Premolar teeth were unerupted and widely spaced. Other than oligodontia, histological changes in teeth were modest, featuring multifocal disorganization of ameloblasts, new bone formation in dental alveoli, and small aggregates of osteodentin and cementum at the margins of the enamel organ. A 52,780 base pair deletion spanning six out of eight coding exons of EDA and all of AWAT2 was identified. Partial deletion of the EDA gene is the presumed basis for the reported X-chromosomal recessive inherited genodermatosis.
Determination of Efficacy of Single and Double 4.7 mg Deslorelin Acetate Implant on the Reproductive Activity of Female Pond Sliders (Trachemys scripta)
Authors: Bardi Edoardo , Manfredi Martina , Capitelli Raffaella , Lubian Emanuele , Vetere Alessandro , Montani Alessandro , Bertoni Tommaso , Talon Elisa , Ratti Gabriele , Romussi Stefano
Published: March 2021

The use of long-acting gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists to suppress fertility has been poorly investigated in reptiles, and the few available studies show inconsistent results. The efficacy of single and double intramuscular 4.7 mg deslorelin acetate implants in captive pond sliders (Trachemys scripta) was investigated, with 20 animals divided into three groups: a single-implant group (6 animals), a double-implant group (6 animals), and a control group (no implant). During one reproductive season (March to October), plasmatic concentration of sexual hormones (estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone) and ovarian morphometric activity via computed tomography were monitored about every 30 days. A significative decrease in the number of phase II ovarian follicles was detected in the double-implant group compared with the control group, but no significant difference was noted in the number of phase III and phase IV follicles, egg production, and plasmatic concentration of sexual hormones. Results show that neither a single nor a double deslorelin acetate implant can successfully inhibit reproduction in female pond sliders during the ongoing season, but the lower number of phase II follicles in the double-implant group can possibly be associated with reduced fertility in the following seasons.
Effects of Dietary Inclusion Level of Microwave-Dried and Press-Defatted Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Meal on Carcass Traits and Meat Quality in Broilers
Authors: Kim Byeonghyeon , Kim Hye Ran , Lee Seul , Baek Youl-Chang , Jeong Jin Young , Bang Han Tae , Ji Sang Yun , Park Seol Hwa
Published: March 2021

Limited information is available regarding the use of microwave-dried Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HILM) as a dietary protein source for broiler diets. Therefore, we investigated the effects of microwave-dried HILM on carcass traits, meat quality, fatty acid (FA) profiles of abdominal fat and meat, and heavy metal residues of the meat in broilers. A total of 126 male broilers were randomly assigned to three dietary treatment groups (6 replicates and 7 birds/pen): a control diet and two experimental diets in which soybean meal was replaced with 25 or 50% HILM. The broilers were slaughtered at 35 days; the carcasses were weighed, and breast and leg meats were excised from 12 birds per treatment (2 birds/pen) for meat analysis. The breast meat quality and proximate composition showed satisfactory results. For the higher HILM diet, the content of saturated FA in the abdominal fat was increased and that of polyunsaturated FA was decreased (p < 0.001); the FA profile of leg meat did not significantly differ between groups. The concentrations of undesirable heavy metals in the HILM and leg meat were below permissible levels. However, the carcass weight was decreased (p < 0.001) in the 50% HILM group. Microwave-dried HILM is a potential ingredient for broiler diets, with up to 25% substitution showing no detrimental effects on carcass traits, meat quality, FA profiles, and heavy metal residues in the meat.
Recent Advances in Fiber–Hydrogel Composites for Wound Healing and Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Teixeira Marta O. , Antunes Joana C. , Felgueiras Helena P.
Published: March 2021

In the last decades, much research has been done to fasten wound healing and target-direct drug delivery. Hydrogel-based scaffolds have been a recurrent solution in both cases, with some reaching already the market, even though their mechanical stability remains a challenge. To overcome this limitation, reinforcement of hydrogels with fibers has been explored. The structural resemblance of fiber–hydrogel composites to natural tissues has been a driving force for the optimization and exploration of these systems in biomedicine. Indeed, the combination of hydrogel-forming techniques and fiber spinning approaches has been crucial in the development of scaffolding systems with improved mechanical strength and medicinal properties. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the recently developed fiber–hydrogel composite strategies for wound healing and drug delivery is provided. The methodologies employed in fiber and hydrogel formation are also highlighted, together with the most compatible polymer combinations, as well as drug incorporation approaches creating stimuli-sensitive and triggered drug release towards an enhanced host response.
Fighting Oxidative Stress with Sulfur: Hydrogen Sulfide in the Renal and Cardiovascular Systems
Authors: Scammahorn Joshua J. , Nguyen Isabel T. N. , Bos Eelke M. , Van Goor Harry , Joles Jaap A.
Published: March 2021

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an essential gaseous signaling molecule. Research on its role in physiological and pathophysiological processes has greatly expanded. Endogenous enzymatic production through the transsulfuration and cysteine catabolism pathways can occur in the kidneys and blood vessels. Furthermore, non-enzymatic pathways are present throughout the body. In the renal and cardiovascular system, H2S plays an important role in maintaining the redox status at safe levels by promoting scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS). H2S also modifies cysteine residues on key signaling molecules such as keap1/Nrf2, NFκB, and HIF-1α, thereby promoting anti-oxidant mechanisms. Depletion of H2S is implicated in many age-related and cardiorenal diseases, all having oxidative stress as a major contributor. Current research suggests potential for H2S-based therapies, however, therapeutic interventions have been limited to studies in animal models. Beyond H2S use as direct treatment, it could improve procedures such as transplantation, stem cell therapy, and the safety and efficacy of drugs including NSAIDs and ACE inhibitors. All in all, H2S is a prime subject for further research with potential for clinical use.
A Protocol for the Use of a Combined Microvascular Free Flap with Custom-Made 3D-Printed Total Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Prosthesis for Mandible Reconstruction in Children
Authors: Dowgierd Krzysztof , Pokrowiecki Rafal , Borowiec Maciej , Kozakiewicz Marcin , Smyczek Dominika , Krakowczyk Łukasz
Published: March 2021

Extended postoperative mandibular reconstructions due to orofacial disease involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in immature patients remain a challenge as a result of ongoing growth, which is usually affected by the disease and treatment. Current reconstructive techniques based fully on alloplastic total joint replacement fail to meet fully the anatomical and functional requirements for the masticatory system and speech development. Fourteen children aged 12.6 ± 2.6 with tumors or congenital deformities affecting the mandible and TMJ were included in the study. Radical surgical treatment according to our own protocol was performed through microvascular anastomotic flap reconstruction of the soft tissues and bones, together with total TMJ custom replacements. Follow-up lasted 2–6 years. During the follow-up, increases in the mandible body (13% growth) and ramus (12% growth) were observed, both of which were related (p < 0.001). This is the first report concerning the immediate reconstruction of the mandible with ramus and total TMJ in children and adolescents that combines a free vascularized graft and total individual prosthesis of the TMJ. The presented technique enabled optimal function of the TMJ, growth of the mandible, and further rehabilitation of the patients. The technique was demonstrated to be safe, reliable, and provide good functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Maceral Types and Quality of Coal in the Tuli Coalfield: A Case Study of Coal in the Madzaringwe Formation in the Vele Colliery, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Denge Elelwani , Baiyegunhi Christopher
Published: March 2021

The Madzaringwe Formation in the Vele colliery is one of the coal-bearing Late Palaeozoic units of the Karoo Supergroup, consisting of shale with thin coal seams and sandstones. Maceral group analysis was conducted on seven representative coal samples collected from three existing boreholes—OV125149, OV125156, and OV125160—in the Vele colliery to determine the coal rank and other intrinsic characteristics of the coal. The petrographic characterization revealed that vitrinite is the dominant maceral group in the coals, representing up to 81–92 vol.% (mmf) of the total sample. Collotellinite is the dominant vitrinite maceral, with a total count varying between 52.4 vol.% (mmf) and 74.9 vol.% (mmf), followed by corpogelinite, collodetrinite, tellinite, and pseudovitrinite with a count ranging between 0.8 and 19.4 vol.% (mmf), 1.5 and 17.5 vol.% (mmf), 0.8 and 6.5 vol.% (mmf) and 0.3 and 5.9 vol.% (mmf), respectively. The dominance of collotellinite gives a clear indication that the coals are derived from the parenchymatous and woody tissues of roots, stems, and leaves. The mean random vitrinite reflectance values range between 0.75% and 0.76%, placing the coals in the medium rank category (also known as the high volatile bituminous coal) based on the Coal Classification of the Economic Commission for Europe (UN-ECE) coal classification scheme. The inertinite content is low, ranging between 4 and 16 vol.% (mmf), and it is dominated by fusinite with count of about 1–7 vol.% (mmf). The high amount of inertinite, especially fusinite, with empty cells and semi-fusinite in the coals will pose a threat to coal mining because it aids the formation of dust.
Combining Chemical Composition Data and Numerical Modelling for the Assessment of Air Quality in a Mediterranean Port City
Authors: Cesari Rita , Genga Alessandra , Buccolieri Riccardo , Di Sabatino Silvana , Siciliano Maria , Siciliano Tiziana , Dinoi Adelaide , Maurizi Alberto , Ielpo Pierina
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study is to characterize the air quality in a Mediterranean port city. The impact of ship emissions on both gaseous and particulate pollutants has been investigated through an integrated methodology which includes atmospheric flow and dispersion numerical modelling as well as chemical composition and statistical analyses. Specifically, chemical compositional data (ionic fraction, carbonaceous compounds, and metals) of PM2.5 were acquired during an experimental field campaign carried out in the port city of Brindisi (Apulia Region, Southern Italy). The sampling site was located on the roof of a building (ASI) within the port area. Given the complexity of the site in which both domestic buildings and a large industrial area are present, analyses were done by selecting different wind sectors to test different techniques to discriminate between sources. Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were applied to evaluate statistical differences in the composition of PM2.5 sampled within the area when the sampling site was downwind to the port or to the urban-industrial area. Only LDA allowed to discriminate the separation between urban-industrial and port macroareas. Those results were further confirmed in terms of PM2.5 concentrations directly associated to ship emissions using a coupled modelling approach. The mesoscale model BOLCHEM was used to investigate the contribution of ship emissions both on primary and secondary PM2.5 concentration in the area surrounding the port, as well as on PM10, NOX and O3 concentrations. Then, the model was coupled offline with the local dispersion model ADMS-Urban. The adopted approach was crucial to evaluate the spatial distribution of the impact of ship emissions. BOLCHEM results showed that in the cell of the port the average impact of ship emissions on NOX was 37.6%, and −11.7% on O3. The average impact on PM2.5 was 6.1%, distributed between primary (2.7%) and secondary fraction (3.4%). At local scale, the analysis of high-resolution modelling results obtained from ADMS-Urban highlighted that, at ASI position, the impact of ship emissions on PM2.5 was 6.8% when the sampling site was positioned downwind to the port area and reduced to lower than 3.0% at about 2 km from the sources.
High–Resolution Modeling of Airflows and Particle Deposition over Complex Terrain at Sakurajima Volcano
Authors: Takemi Tetsuya , Poulidis Alexandros P. , Iguchi Masato
Published: March 2021

The realistic representation of atmospheric pollutant dispersal over areas of complex topography presents a challenging application for meteorological models. Here, we present results from high–resolution atmospheric modeling in order to gain insight into local processes that can affect ash transport and deposition. The nested Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with the finest resolution of 50 m was used to simulate atmospheric flow over the complex topography of Sakurajima volcano, Japan, for two volcanic eruption cases. The simulated airflow results were shown to compare well against surface observations. As a preliminary application, idealized trajectory modeling for the two cases revealed that accounting for local circulations can significantly impact volcanic ash deposition leading to a total fall velocity up to 2–3 times the particle’s terminal velocity depending on the size. Such a modification of the estimated particle settling velocity over areas with complex topography can be used to parametrize the impact of orographic effects in dispersal models, in order to improve fidelity.
Increased Circulating H3 Histone in Response to Repeated Bouts of Exercise Does Not Associate with Parallel Alterations of Cell-Free DNA
Authors: Stawski Robert , Walczak Konrad , Perdas Ewelina , Prymont-Przymińska Anna , Zwolińska Anna , Kosielski Piotr , Budlewski Tomasz , Padula Gianluca , Jerczynska Hanna , Nowak Dariusz
Published: March 2021

Numerous studies have shown that cf nDNA significantly rises in stress caused by exercise. However, during nuclear decondensation, released DNA is followed by histones. Histones are also a common disease marker. After PAD4 mediated hypercitrullination extracellular H3Cit exhibits high toxicity contributing to tissue damage which, in cases of systemic inflammation, may lead to multiorgan failure and finally to death. We tested whether circulating histones rise in response to strenuous exercise. Eleven average-trained men performed three treadmill exercise tests to exhaustion at speed corresponding to 70% VO2max separated by 72 h of resting. Blood was collected before and just after each bout of exercise and plasma proteins were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, whereas platelet activity was estimated with Light Transmission Aggregometry. Both, circulating histones and PAD4 raised in response to exercise. Plasma citrullinated histones increased from 3.1 ng/mL to 5.96 ng/mL (p = 0.0059), from 3.65 ng/mL to 6.37 ng/mL (p = 0.02), and from 3.86 ng/mL to 4.75 ng/mL (p = 0.033) after the first, second, and third treadmill run, respectively. However despite the parallel increase, no significant correlation between citrullinated histone and aggregation or cell-free nDNA was found. Furthermore, positive correlations of cf nDNA with aggregation and PAD4, lactate with aggregation, and lactate with citrullinated histone have been observed.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid Inhibits KRAS Mutant Pancreatic Cancer Cell Growth by Suppressing Hepassocin Expression and STAT3 Phosphorylation
Authors: Chiu Ching-Feng , Hsu Ming-I , Yeh Hsiu-Yen , Park Ji Min , Shen Yu-Shiuan , Tung Te-Hsuan , Huang Jun-Jie , Wu Hung-Tsung , Huang Shih-Yi
Published: March 2021

Background: The oncogenic Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) mutation was reported to be the signature genetic event in most cases of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Hepassocin (HPS/FGL1) is involved in regulating lipid metabolism and the progression of several cancer types; however, the underlying mechanism of HPS/FGL1 in the KRAS mutant PDAC cells undergoing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) treatment remains unclear. Methods: We measured HPS/FGL1 protein expressions in a human pancreatic ductal epithelial (HPNE) normal pancreas cell line, a KRAS-wild-type PDAC cell line (BxPC-3), and KRAS-mutant PDAC cell lines (PANC-1, MIA PaCa-2, and SUIT-2) by Western blot methods. HEK293T cells were transiently transfected with corresponding KRAS-expressing plasmids to examine the level of HPS expression with KRAS activation. We knocked-down HPS/FGL1 using lentiviral vectors in SUIT-2 cells and measured the cell viability by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and clonogenicity assays. Furthermore, a lipidomic analysis was performed to profile changes in lipid metabolism after HPS/FGL1 knockdown. Results: We found that the HPS/FGL1 level was significantly upregulated in KRAS-mutated PDAC cells and was involved in KRAS/phosphorylated (p)-signal transduction and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling, and the knockdown of HPS/FGL1 in SUIT-2 cells decreased cell proliferation through increasing G2/M cell cycle arrest and cyclin B1 expression. In addition, the knockdown of HPS/FGL1 in SUIT-2 cells significantly increased omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and EPA production but not docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Moreover, EPA treatment in SUIT-2 cells reduced the expression of de novo lipogenic protein, acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC)-1, and decreased p-STAT3 and HPS/FGL1 expressions, resulting in the suppression of cell viability. Conclusions: Results of this study indicate that HPS is highly expressed by KRAS-mutated PDAC cells, and HPS/FGL1 plays a crucial role in altering lipid metabolism and increasing cell growth in pancreatic cancer. EPA supplements could potentially inhibit or reduce ACC-1-involved lipogenesis and HPS/FGL1-mediated cell survival in KRAS-mutated pancreatic cancer cells.
The Effect of Herbal Medicinal Products on Psoriasis-Like Keratinocytes
Authors: Gendrisch Fabian , Haarhaus Birgit , Krieger Nina , Quirin Karl-Werner , Schempp Christoph M. , Wölfle Ute
Published: March 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the epidermis. New biological drugs were developed for the systemic treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis. However, products for the topical treatment of mild psoriasis are still required. Here, we examined the effect of natural compounds on psoriasis-like keratinocytes in vitro and ex vivo. Psoriasis-like keratinocytes were generated by treating human primary keratinocytes with the psoriasis-associated cytokines IL-17A, TNF-α and IL-22. Initially, 10 botanical extracts from Ayurvedic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Northern American traditional medicine and Occidental Monastic Medicine were investigated using BrdU assays and IL-6 and IL-8 ELISAs. Curcuma amada, Humulus lupulus and Hypericum perforatum turned out to be the most effective plant extracts. In vitro, the plant extracts inhibited the expression of anti-microbial peptides (β-defensin 2), the hyperproliferation marker keratin 17, the glucose transporter 1 and downregulated the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and pSTAT3. In an ex vivo psoriasis model, Humulus lupulus displayed the most prominent anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effect. In conclusion, among the plant extracts investigated, Humulus lupulus showed the most promising anti-psoriatic effect. It is an interesting candidate for topical psoriasis treatment that should be further studied in clinical trials.
Skeletal Muscle in ALS: An Unappreciated Therapeutic Opportunity?
Authors: Scaricamazza Silvia , Salvatori Illari , Ferri Alberto , Valle Cristiana
Published: March 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the selective degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons and by the progressive weakness and paralysis of voluntary muscles. Despite intense research efforts and numerous clinical trials, it is still an incurable disease. ALS had long been considered a pure motor neuron disease; however, recent studies have shown that motor neuron protection is not sufficient to prevent the course of the disease since the dismantlement of neuromuscular junctions occurs before motor neuron degeneration. Skeletal muscle alterations have been described in the early stages of the disease, and they seem to be mainly involved in the “dying back” phenomenon of motor neurons and metabolic dysfunctions. In recent years, skeletal muscles have been considered crucial not only for the etiology of ALS but also for its treatment. Here, we review clinical and preclinical studies that targeted skeletal muscles and discuss the different approaches, including pharmacological interventions, supplements or diets, genetic modifications, and training programs.
Interleukin-1α Is a Critical Mediator of the Response of Human Bronchial Fibroblasts to Eosinophilic Inflammation
Authors: Bernau Ksenija , Leet Jonathan P. , Floerke Heather , Bruhn Ellen M. , Noll Andrea L. , McDermott Ivy S. , Esnault Stephane , Jarjour Nizar N. , Sandbo Nathan
Published: March 2021

Eosinophils contribute to allergic inflammation in asthma in part via elaboration of a complex milieu of soluble mediators. Human bronchial fibroblasts (HBF) respond to stimulation by these mediators by acquiring a pro-inflammatory profile including induction of interleukin 6 (IL6) and IL8. This study sought to determine key component(s) of eosinophil soluble factors that mediate IL6 and IL8 induction in HBF. HBF treated with eosinophil-derived soluble mediators were analyzed for gene expression, intracellular signaling, and IL6 and IL8 secretion following inhibition of inflammatory signaling. Segmental allergen bronchoprovocation (SBP-Ag) was performed in mild asthmatics and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was analyzed for eosinophils and cytokines. We found that signaling via the IL1α/IL1 receptor is an essential component of the response of HBF to eosinophil-derived soluble factors. IL1α-dependent activation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) signaling is required to induce IL6 secretion. However, NFκB signaling is dispensable for the induction of IL8, whereas Src is required. IL1α is associated with eosinophilic inflammation in human airways after SBP-Ag. Conclusions: IL1α appears to be a critical component of the soluble eosinophil-derived milieu that drives pro-inflammatory bronchial fibroblast responses and associates with eosinophilic inflammation following SBP-Ag. Disruption of IL1α-signaling could modify the downstream effects of eosinophilic inflammation on airway remodeling.
SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Targets RIG-I-Like Receptor Pathways to Inhibit the Induction of Interferon Response
Authors: Oh Soo Jin , Shin Ok Sarah
Published: March 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that has resulted in the current pandemic. The lack of highly efficacious antiviral drugs that can manage this ongoing global emergency gives urgency to establishing a comprehensive understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. We characterized the role of the nucleocapsid protein (N) of SARS-CoV-2 in modulating antiviral immunity. Overexpression of SARS-CoV-2 N resulted in the attenuation of retinoic acid inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptor-mediated interferon (IFN) production and IFN-induced gene expression. Similar to the SARS-CoV-1 N protein, SARS-CoV-2 N suppressed the interaction between tripartate motif protein 25 (TRIM25) and RIG-I. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 N inhibited polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)]-mediated IFN signaling at the level of Tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and interfered with the association between TBK1 and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), subsequently preventing the nuclear translocation of IRF3. We further found that both type I and III IFN production induced by either the influenza virus lacking the nonstructural protein 1 or the Zika virus were suppressed by the SARS-CoV-2 N protein. Our findings provide insights into the molecular function of the SARS-CoV-2 N protein with respect to counteracting the host antiviral immune response.
Deficiency of Biogenic Amines Modulates the Activity of Hypoglossal Nerve in the Reserpine Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Jampolska Monika , Andrzejewski Kryspin , Zaremba Małgorzata , Joniec-Maciejak Ilona , Kaczyńska Katarzyna
Published: March 2021

The underlying cause of respiratory impairments appearing in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is still far from being elucidated. To better understand the pathogenesis of respiratory disorders appearing in PD, we studied hypoglossal (HG) and phrenic (PHR) motoneuron dysfunction in a rat model evoked with reserpine administration. After reserpine, a decrease in the baseline amplitude and minute HG activity was noted, and no depressive phase of the hypoxic ventilatory response was observed. The pre-inspiratory time of HG activity along with the ratio of pre-inspiratory time to total respiratory cycle time and the ratio of pre-inspiratory to inspiratory amplitude were significantly reduced during normoxia, hypoxia, and recovery compared to sham rats. We suggest that the massive depletion of not only dopamine, but above all noradrenaline and serotonin in the brainstem observed in our study, has an impact on the pre-inspiratory activity of the HG. The shortening of the pre-inspiratory activity of the HG in the reserpine model may indicate a serious problem with maintaining the correct diameter of the upper airways in the preparation phase for inspiratory effort and explain the development of obstructive sleep apnea in some PD patients. Therapies involving the supplementation of amine depletion other than dopamine should be considered.
Highly Conductive Co-Doped Ga2O3:Si-In Grown by MOCVD
Authors: Lee Junhee , Kim Honghyuk , Gautam Lakshay , Razeghi Manijeh
Published: March 2021

We report a highly conductive gallium oxide doped with both silicon and indium grown on c-plane sapphire substrate by MOCVD. From a superlattice structure of indium oxide and gallium oxide doped with silicon, we obtained a highly conductive material with an electron hall mobility up to 150 cm2/V·s with the carrier concentration near 2 × 1017 cm−3. However, if not doped with silicon, both Ga2O3:In and Ga2O3 are highly resistive. Optical and structural characterization techniques such as X-ray, transmission electron microscope, and photoluminescence, reveal no significant incorporation of indium into the superlattice materials, which suggests the indium plays a role of a surfactant passivating electron trapping defect levels.
Computer-Assisted System in Stress Radiography for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury with Correspondent Evaluation of Relevant Diagnostic Factors
Authors: Wang Chien-Kuo , Lin Liang-Ching , Sun Yung-Nien , Lai Cheng-Shih , Chen Chia-Hui , Kao Cheng-Yi
Published: March 2021

We sought to design a computer-assisted system measuring the anterior tibial translation in stress radiography, evaluate its diagnostic performance for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, and assess factors affecting the diagnostic accuracy. Retrospective research for patients with both knee stress radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at our institution was performed. A complete ACL rupture was confirmed on an MRI. The anterior tibial translations with four different methods were measured in 249 patients by the designed algorithm. The diagnostic accuracy of each method in patients with all successful measurements was evaluated. Univariate logistic regression analysis for factors affecting diagnostic accuracy of method four was performed. In the inclusive 249 patients, 177 patients (129 with completely torn ACLs) were available for analysis. Mean anterior tibial translations were significantly increased in the patients with a completely torn ACL by all four methods, with diagnostic accuracies ranging from 66.7% to 75.1%. The diagnostic accuracy of method four was negatively associated with the time interval between stress radiography and MRI as well as force-joint distance on stress view, and not significantly associated with age, gender, flexion angle, intercondylar distance, and force-joint angle. A computer-assisted system measuring the anterior tibial translation in stress radiography showed acceptable diagnostic performance of complete ACL injury. A shorter time interval between stress radiography and MRI as well as shorter force-joint distance were associated with higher diagnostic accuracy.