bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Mitochondria in Interplay between NGF/TRKA, miR-145 and Possible Therapeutic Strategies for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Vera Daniela B. , Fredes Allison N. , Garrido Maritza P. , Romero Carmen
Published: December 2021

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological neoplasm, and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) accounts for 90% of ovarian malignancies. The 5-year survival is less than 45%, and, unlike other types of cancer, the proportion of women who die from this disease has not improved in recent decades. Nerve growth factor (NGF) and tropomyosin kinase A (TRKA), its high-affinity receptor, play a crucial role in pathogenesis through cell proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration. NGF/TRKA increase their expression during the progression of EOC by upregulation of oncogenic proteins as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and c-Myc. Otherwise, the expression of most oncoproteins is regulated by microRNAs (miRs). Our laboratory group reported that the tumoral effect of NGF/TRKA depends on the regulation of miR-145 levels in EOC. Currently, mitochondria have been proposed as new therapeutic targets to activate the apoptotic pathway in the cancer cell. The mitochondria are involved in a myriad of functions as energy production, redox control, homeostasis of Ca+2, and cell death. We demonstrated that NGF stimulation produces an augment in the Bcl-2/BAX ratio, which supports the anti-apoptotic effects of NGF in EOC cells. The review aimed to discuss the role of mitochondria in the interplay between NGF/TRKA and miR-145 and possible therapeutic strategies that may decrease mortality due to EOC.
The Pulp Stones: Morphological Analysis in Scanning Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopic Chemical Quantification
Authors: Palatyńska-Ulatowska Aleksandra , Fernandes Marcos Cook , Pietrzycka Krystyna , Koprowicz Agata , Klimek Leszek , Souza Ronaldo Araújo , Pradebon Marieli , de Figueiredo José Antonio Poli
Published: December 2021

Background and objectives: Pulp stones are hard tissue structures formed in the pulp of permanent and deciduous teeth. Few studies have evaluated their morphology and chemical composition. However, their formation, composition, configuration and role played in overall health status are still unclear. Clinically, they may be symptomatic; technically, they impede access during endodontic therapy, increasing the risk of treatment errors. Thus, this study aimed to morphologically analyze pulp stones and present their chemical quantification, identifying their main chemical elements. It also correlates the results with their possible induction mechanisms. Materials and Methods: Seven pulp nodules were collected from molar teeth needing endodontic treatment. The morphology of the stones was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and their chemical composition was determined by X-ray dispersive energy spectroscopy (EDX). Results: These structures varied considerably in shape, size and topography. The site of the stones in the pulp cavity was the factor that most affected the morphology. The majority of the stones found in the pulp chambers presented nodular morphology, while those in the root canals presented a diffuse shape, resembling root canal anatomy. The topography of the nodules showed heterogeneous relief, revealing smooth and compact areas contrasting with the rugged and porous ones. The chemical composition varied depending on the location of the nodule in the pulp cavity and the relief of the analyzed area. Radicular stones presented considerably lower calcium and phosphorus content than coronary nodules. Conclusions: The high cellularity rate of the coronal pulp predisposes this region to nodular mineralizations around injured cells. The presence of larger caliber vascular bundles and higher collagen fiber content in radicular pulp determines a diffuse morphological pattern in this region. Understanding the morphology and chemical composition of the pulp stones allows future translational pathways towards the prevention or treatment of such conditions.
The Relationship between Cognitive Dysfunction and Postural Stability in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Redlicka Justyna , Zielińska-Nowak Ewa , Lipert Anna , Miller Elżbieta
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), most commonly characterized by balance dysfunction, fatigue syndrome and cognitive impairment. The goal of our study was to determine the association between cognitive functions and static posture control. Materials and Methods: The research group consisted of 76 randomized MS patients (ICDG 35.0) hospitalized at the Neurological Rehabilitation Clinic of the Medical University of Lodz. This group was divided into three subgroups according to the cognitive assessment based on the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) for patients over 65 years of age and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) under the age of 65. Fatigue syndrome was assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and postural stability using a stabilometric platform. Results: The men demonstrated poorer stabilometric platform measurements than the women. Statistically significant differences were observed between patients without dysfunction and severe cognitive impairment. The results of the stabilometric platform were found to correlate with body mass index in all three groups of patients (Spearman’s test). Conclusions: Body mass index and cognition have impact on postural stability in MS patients with moderate disability and fatigue syndrome.
Metabolic Influences Modulating Erythrocyte Deformability and Eryptosis
Authors: Brun Jean-Frédéric , Varlet-Marie Emmanuelle , Myzia Justine , Raynaud de Mauverger Eric , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: December 2021

Many factors in the surrounding environment have been reported to influence erythrocyte deformability. It is likely that some influences represent reversible changes in erythrocyte rigidity that may be involved in physiological regulation, while others represent the early stages of eryptosis, i.e., the red cell self-programmed death. For example, erythrocyte rigidification during exercise is probably a reversible physiological mechanism, while the alterations of red blood cells (RBCs) observed in pathological conditions (inflammation, type 2 diabetes, and sickle-cell disease) are more likely to lead to eryptosis. The splenic clearance of rigid erythrocytes is the major regulator of RBC deformability. The physicochemical characteristics of the surrounding environment (thermal injury, pH, osmolality, oxidative stress, and plasma protein profile) also play a major role. However, there are many other factors that influence RBC deformability and eryptosis. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the various elements and circulating molecules that might influence RBCs and modify their deformability: purinergic signaling, gasotransmitters such as nitric oxide (NO), divalent cations (magnesium, zinc, and Fe2+), lactate, ketone bodies, blood lipids, and several circulating hormones. Meal composition (caloric and carbohydrate intake) also modifies RBC deformability. Therefore, RBC deformability appears to be under the influence of many factors. This suggests that several homeostatic regulatory loops adapt the red cell rigidity to the physiological conditions in order to cope with the need for oxygen or fuel delivery to tissues. Furthermore, many conditions appear to irreversibly damage red cells, resulting in their destruction and removal from the blood. These two categories of modifications to erythrocyte deformability should thus be differentiated.
Drug-Induced Nephrotoxicity Assessment in 3D Cellular Models
Authors: Yu Pengfei , Duan Zhongping , Liu Shuang , Pachon Ivan , Ma Jianxing , Hemstreet George , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: December 2021

The kidneys are often involved in adverse effects and toxicity caused by exposure to foreign compounds, chemicals, and drugs. Early predictions of these influences are essential to facilitate new, safe drugs to enter the market. However, in current drug treatments, drug-induced nephrotoxicity accounts for 1/4 of reported serious adverse reactions, and 1/3 of them are attributable to antibiotics. Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is driven by multiple mechanisms, including altered glomerular hemodynamics, renal tubular cytotoxicity, inflammation, crystal nephropathy, and thrombotic microangiopathy. Although the functional proteins expressed by renal tubules that mediate drug sensitivity are well known, current in vitro 2D cell models do not faithfully replicate the morphology and intact renal tubule function, and therefore, they do not replicate in vivo nephrotoxicity. The kidney is delicate and complex, consisting of a filter unit and a tubular part, which together contain more than 20 different cell types. The tubular epithelium is highly polarized, and maintaining cellular polarity is essential for the optimal function and response to environmental signals. Cell polarity depends on the communication between cells, including paracrine and autocrine signals, as well as biomechanical and chemotaxis processes. These processes affect kidney cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. For drug disposal research, the microenvironment is essential for predicting toxic reactions. This article reviews the mechanism of drug-induced kidney injury, the types of nephrotoxicity models (in vivo and in vitro models), and the research progress related to drug-induced nephrotoxicity in three-dimensional (3D) cellular culture models.
Prediction of Static Characteristic Parameters of an Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Yao Qing , Guo Yufeng , Zhang Bo , Chen Jing , Zhang Jun , Zhang Maolin , Guo Xiaobo , Yao Jiafei , Tang Weihua , Liu Jianhua
Published: December 2021

Breakdown voltage (BV), on-state voltage (Von), static latch-up voltage (Vlu), static latch-up current density (Jlu), and threshold voltage (Vth), etc., are critical static characteristic parameters of an IGBT for researchers. Von and Vth can characterize the conduction capability of the device, while BV, Vlu, and Jlu can help designers analyze the safe operating area (SOA) of the device and its reliability. In this paper, we propose a multi-layer artificial neural network (ANN) framework to predict these characteristic parameters. The proposed scheme can accurately fit the relationship between structural parameters and static characteristic parameters. Given the structural parameters of the device, characteristic parameters can be generated accurately and efficiently. Compared with technology computer-aided design (TCAD) simulation, the average errors of our scheme for each characteristic parameter are within 8%, especially for BV and Vth, while the errors are controlled within 1%, and the evaluation speed is improved more than 107 times. In addition, since the prediction process is mathematically a matrix operation process, there is no convergence problem, which there is in a TCAD simulation.
Chemical, Microstructural and Morphological Characterisation of Dentine Caries Simulation by pH-Cycling
Authors: Zuluaga-Morales Juan Sebastián , Bolaños-Carmona María Victoria , Cifuentes-Jiménez Carolina Cecilia , Álvarez-Lloret Pedro
Published: December 2021

In vitro simulation of natural caries is of great importance in dental research for the development of more effective clinical treatments. The pH-cycling (pHc) procedure consists of a dynamic caries process with alternating de-remineralisation periods. The current research aims to evaluate the effects of the pHc procedure on mineral dentine properties in comparison with sound dentine and natural residual caries. For this purpose, dentine slices from human third molars were submitted to cycling periods of 14 and 28 days. The chemical composition, morphological and microstructural properties of the dentine samples were examined by infrared and Raman spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy techniques. In addition, the depth of the demineralisation front was evaluated by Masson’s trichrome (MT) staining. The results showed that the pHc procedure led to notable changes in the mineral composition and the crystalline characteristics with respect to sound dentine and some extent to natural caries. The MT results revealed that pHc 28 yields a deeper lesion than pHc 14, simulating potential progression of natural caries. The results of this study provide a better understanding of the mechanisms of demineralisation that could occur in an in vivo environment and provide a standardised substrate similar to natural residual caries.
Multi-Trajectories of Macronutrient Intake and Their Associations with Obesity among Chinese Adults from 1991 to 2018: A Prospective Study
Authors: Zhang Xiaofan , Zhang Jiguo , Du Wenwen , Su Chang , Ouyang Yifei , Huang Feifei , Jia Xiaofang , Li Li , Bai Jing , Zhang Bing , Wang Zhihong , Du Shufa , Wang Huijun
Published: December 2021

Studies on macronutrient intake and obesity have been inconclusive. This study examined the associations between multi-trajectories of macronutrients and the risk of obesity in China. We used data from 7914 adults who participated in the China Health and Nutrition Survey at least three times from 1991 to 2018. We collected detailed dietary data by conducting three 24 h dietary recalls and weighing foods and condiments in household inventories. We identified multi-trajectories using group-based multi-trajectory models and examined their associations with the risk of obesity with multiple Cox regression models. We found four multi-trajectories in rural areas: balanced macronutrient intake (BM), moderate protein, increasing low fat, and decreasing high carbohydrate (MP&ILF&DHC); decreasing moderate protein, decreasing high fat, and increasing moderate carbohydrate (DMP&DHF&IMC); increasing moderate protein, increasing high fat, and decreasing low carbohydrate (IMP&IHF&DLC)—35.1%, 21.3%, 20.1%, and 23.5% of our rural participant population, respectively. Compared with the BM trajectory, the hazard ratios of obesity in the DMP&DHF&IMC and the IMP&IHF&DLC groups were 0.50 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.27–0.95) and 0.48 (95% CI: 0.28–0.83), respectively, in rural participants. Relatively low carbohydrate and high fat intakes with complementary dynamic trends are associated with a lower risk of obesity in rural Chinese adults.
Reply to Lauro, A.; Ripoli, M.C. Comment on “Klek et al. Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) Protocol Is a Safe and Effective Approach in Patients with Gastrointestinal Fistulas Undergoing Reconstruction: Results from a Prospective Study. Nutrients 2021, 13, 1953”
Authors: Klek Stanislaw
Published: December 2021

We would like to thank you for the opportunity to respond to the issues raised in Dr Lauro’s and Ropoli’s letter, to clarify aspects of our methodology in relation to these concerns [...]
Exposure to Toxoplasma gondii in Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus indicus) in Thailand
Authors: Udonsom Ruenruetai , Nishikawa Yoshifumi , Fereig Ragab M. , Topisit Thitirat , Kulkaweewut Natchakorn , Chanamrung Supitcha , Jirapattharasate Charoonluk
Published: December 2021

Toxoplasma gondii is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis in humans and various animal species worldwide. In Thailand, seroprevalence studies on T. gondii have focused on domestic animals, and information on infections in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus indicus) is scarce. This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in archival sera collected from 268 elephants living in Thailand. The serum samples were analyzed for anti-T. gondii immunoglobulin G antibodies using the latex agglutination test (LAT) and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) based on T. gondii lysate antigen (TLA-iELISA) and recombinant T. gondii dense granular antigen 8 protein (TgGRA8-iELISA). The prevalence of antibodies against T. gondii was 45.1% (121/268), 40.7% (109/268), and 44.4% (119/268) using LAT, TLA-iELISA, and TgGRA8-iELISA, respectively. Young elephants had a higher seropositivity rate than elephants aged >40 years (odds ratio = 6.6; p < 0.001; 95% confidence interval: 2.9–15.4). When LAT was used as the reference, TLA-iELISA and TgGRA8-iELISA showed a substantial (κ = 0.69) and moderate (κ = 0.42) agreement, respectively. Although our findings suggest the widespread exposure of Asian elephants to T. gondii in Thailand, the source of infection was not investigated. Therefore, investigation of the predisposing factors associated with toxoplasmosis is necessary to identify the potential risk factors for infection.
Cortactin Promotes Effective AGS Cell Scattering by Helicobacter pylori CagA, but Not Cellular Vacuolization and Apoptosis Induced by the Vacuolating Cytotoxin VacA
Authors: Sharafutdinov Irshad , Knorr Jakob , Soltan Esmaeili Delara , Backert Steffen , Tegtmeyer Nicole
Published: December 2021

Cortactin is an actin-binding protein and actin-nucleation promoting factor regulating cytoskeletal rearrangements in eukaryotes. Helicobacter pylori is a gastric pathogen that exploits cortactin to its own benefit. During infection of gastric epithelial cells, H. pylori hijacks multiple cellular signaling pathways, leading to the disruption of key cell functions. Two bacterial virulence factors play important roles in this scenario, the vacuolating cytotoxin VacA and the translocated effector protein CagA of the cag type IV secretion system (T4SS). Specifically, by overruling the phosphorylation status of cortactin, H. pylori alternates the activity of molecular interaction partners of this important protein, thereby manipulating the performance of cytoskeletal rearrangements, endosomal trafficking and cell movement. Based on shRNA knockdown and other studies, it was previously reported that VacA utilizes cortactin for its cellular uptake, intracellular travel and induction of apoptosis by a mitochondria-dependent mechanism, while CagA induces cell scattering, motility and elongation. To investigate the role of cortactin in these phenotypes in more detail, we produced a complete knockout mutant of cortactin in the gastric adenocarcinoma cell line AGS by CRISPR-Cas9. These cells were infected with H. pylori wild-type or various isogenic mutant strains. Unexpectedly, cortactin deficiency did not prevent the uptake and formation of VacA-dependent vacuoles, nor the induction of apoptosis by internalized VacA, while the induction of T4SS- and CagA-dependent AGS cell movement and elongation were strongly reduced. Thus, we provide evidence that cortactin is required for the function of internalized CagA, but not VacA.
Genotyping for HLA Risk Alleles to Prevent Drug Hypersensitivity Reactions: Impact Analysis
Authors: Manson Lisanne E. N. , van den Hout Wilbert B. , Guchelaar Henk-Jan
Published: December 2021

Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) variants can be a risk factor for developing potentially fatal drug hypersensitivity reactions. Our aim was to estimate the potential impact of genotyping for the HLA risk alleles incorporated in the Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group (DPWG) guidelines in The Netherlands. We estimated the number of hypersensitivity reactions and associated deaths that can be avoided annually by genotyping for these HLA risk alleles. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness was estimated. Nationwide implementation of genotyping HLA risk alleles before initiating drugs with an actionable drug–gene interaction can potentially save the life of seven allopurinol initiators and two flucloxacillin initiators each year in The Netherlands. Besides these deaths, 28 cases of abacavir hypersensitivity, 24 cases of allopurinol induced SCARs, 6 cases of carbamazepine induced DRESS and 22 cases of flucloxacillin induced DILI can be prevented. Genotyping HLA-B*5701 in abacavir initiators has a number needed to genotype of 31 to prevent one case of abacavir hypersensitivity and is cost-saving. Genotyping HLA-B*5801 in allopurinol initiators has a number needed to genotype of 1149 to prevent one case of SCAR but is still cost-effective. Genotyping before initiating antiepileptic drugs or flucloxacillin is not cost-effective. Our results confirm the need for mandatory testing of HLA-B*5701 in abacavir initiators, as indicated in the drug label, and show genotyping of HLA-B*5801 in allopurinol initiators should be considered.
Co-Delivery of Letrozole and Cyclophosphamide via Folic Acid-Decorated Nanoniosomes for Breast Cancer Therapy: Synergic Effect, Augmentation of Cytotoxicity, and Apoptosis Gene Expression
Authors: Sahrayi Hamidreza , Hosseini Elham , Karimifard Sara , Khayam Nazanin , Meybodi Seyed Mohammadmahdi , Amiri Sahar , Bourbour Mahsa , Farasati Far Bahareh , Akbarzadeh Iman , Bhia Mohammed , Hoskins Clare , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat
Published: December 2021

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent causes of cancer mortality in women. In order to increase patient prognosis and survival rates, new technologies are urgently required to deliver therapeutics in a more effective and efficient manner. Niosome nanoparticles have been recently employed as therapeutic platforms capable of loading and carrying drugs within their core for both mono and combination therapy. Here, niosome-based nanoscale carriers were investigated as a targeted delivery system for breast cancer therapy. The platform developed consists of niosomes loaded with letrozole and cyclophosphamide (NLC) and surface-functionalized with a folic-acid-targeting moiety (NLCPFA). Drug release from the formulated particles exhibited pH-sensitive properties in which the niosome showed low and high release in physiological and cancerous conditions, respectively. The results revealed a synergic effect in cytotoxicity by co-loading letrozole and cyclophosphamide with an efficacy increment in NLCPFA use in comparison with NLC. The NLCPFA resulted in the greatest drug internalization compared to the non-targeted formulation and the free drug. Additionally, downregulation of cyclin-D, cyclin-E, MMP-2, and MMP-9 and upregulating the expression of caspase-3 and caspase-9 genes were observed more prominently in the nanoformulation (particularly for NLCPFA) compared to the free drug. This exciting data indicated that niosome-based nanocarriers containing letrozole and cyclophosphamide with controlled release could be a promising platform for drug delivery with potential in breast cancer therapy.
Electrosprayed Ethyl Cellulose Core-Shell Microcapsules for the Encapsulation of Probiotics
Authors: Moreno Jorge Sevilla , Dima Panagiota , Chronakis Ioannis S. , Mendes Ana C.
Published: December 2021

Electrosprayed ethyl cellulose core–shell microcapsules were produced for the encapsulation of probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (Bifido). Ethyl cellulose (ETC) was used as a shell material with different core compounds (concentrated Bifido, Bifido–maltodextrin and Bifido–glycerol). The core–shell microcapsules have an average diameter between 3 µm and 15 µm depending on the core compounds, with a distinct interface that separates the core and the shell structure. The ETC microcapsules displayed relatively low water activity (aw below 0.20) and relatively high values of viable cells (109–1011 CFU/g), as counted post-encapsulation. The effect of different core compounds on the stability of probiotics cells over time was also investigated. After four weeks at 30 °C and 40% RH the electrospray encapsulated samples containing Bifido–glycerol in the core showed a loss in viable cells of no more than 3 log loss CFU/g, while the non-encapsulated Bifido lost about 7.57 log CFU/g. Overall, these results suggest that the viability of the Bifido probiotics encapsulated within the core–shell ETC electrosprayed capsules can be extended, despite the fact that the shell matrix was prepared using solvents that typically substantially reduce their viability.
The Dynamics of NO3− and NH4+ Uptake in Duckweed Are Coordinated with the Expression of Major Nitrogen Assimilation Genes
Authors: Zhou Yuzhen , Kishchenko Olena , Stepanenko Anton , Chen Guimin , Wang Wei , Zhou Jie , Pan Chaozhi , Borisjuk Nikolai
Published: December 2021

Duckweed plants play important roles in aquatic ecosystems worldwide. They rapidly accumulate biomass and have potential uses in bioremediation of water polluted by fertilizer runoff or other chemicals. Here we studied the assimilation of two major sources of inorganic nitrogen, nitrate (NO3− ) and ammonium (NH4+), in six duckweed species: Spirodela polyrhiza, Landoltia punctata, Lemna aequinoctialis, Lemna turionifera, Lemna minor, and Wolffia globosa. All six duckweed species preferred NH4+ over NO3− and started using NO3− only when NH4+ was depleted. Using the available genome sequence, we analyzed the molecular structure and expression of eight key nitrogen assimilation genes in S. polyrhiza. The expression of genes encoding nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase increased about 10-fold when NO3− was supplied and decreased when NH4+ was supplied. NO3− and NH4+ induced the glutamine synthetase (GS) genes GS1;2 and the GS2 by 2- to 5-fold, respectively, but repressed GS1;1 and GS1;3. NH4+ and NO3− upregulated the genes encoding ferredoxin- and NADH-dependent glutamate synthases (Fd-GOGAT and NADH-GOGAT). A survey of nitrogen assimilation gene promoters suggested complex regulation, with major roles for NRE-like and GAATC/GATTC cis-elements, TATA-based enhancers, GA/CTn repeats, and G-quadruplex structures. These results will inform efforts to improve bioremediation and nitrogen use efficiency.
Biodegradation and Non-Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) (PLGA12/88 and PLGA6/94)
Authors: Wang Yue , Murcia Valderrama Maria A. , van Putten Robert-Jan , Davey Charlie J. E. , Tietema Albert , Parsons John R. , Wang Bing , Gruter Gert-Jan M.
Published: December 2021

The predicted growth in plastic demand and the targets for global CO2 emission reductions require a transition to replace fossil-based feedstock for polymers and a transition to close- loop recyclable, and in some cases to, biodegradable polymers. The global crisis in terms of plastic littering will furthermore force a transition towards materials that will not linger in nature but will degrade over time in case they inadvertently end up in nature. Efficient systems for studying polymer (bio)degradation are therefore required. In this research, the Respicond parallel respirometer was applied to polyester degradation studies. Two poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolyesters (PLGA12/88 and PLGA6/94) were tested and shown to mineralise faster than cellulose over 53 days at 25 °C in soil: 37% biodegradation for PLGA12/88, 53% for PLGA6/94, and 30% for cellulose. The corresponding monomers mineralised much faster than the polymers. The methodology presented in this article makes (bio)degradability studies as part of a materials development process economical and, at the same time, time-efficient and of high scientific quality. Additionally, PLGA12/88 and PLGA6/94 were shown to non-enzymatically hydrolyse in water at similar rates, which is relevant for both soil and marine (bio)degradability.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Bipolar Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatments, and Clinical Considerations: A Narrative Review
Authors: Edinoff Amber N. , Apgar Tucker L. , Rogers Jasmine J. , Harper Joshua D. , Cornett Elyse M. , Kaye Adam M. , Kaye Alan D.
Published: December 2021

Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is one of the most common childhood mental health disorders, affecting about 5.6% of the population worldwide. Several studies have specifically shown a high prevalence of comorbid mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder (BD), in those diagnosed with ADHD. Several common symptoms of ADHD are also found in BD, which are characterized by alternating periods of euthymia and mood disturbances. The inattention and impulsivity of ADHD can be seen in manic and hypomanic episodes of BD. Over the past decade, there has been an increased interest in research between the correlation of ADHD and pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD) in children. Some experts hypothesize that more children are comorbidly diagnosed with ADHD and PBD because of how many clinicians treat children with ADHD. Other factors, which may affect the dual diagnoses of ADHD and PBD, are overlapping diagnostic criteria for the two disorders, the inevitable biases seen when one disorder is diagnosed without the other, and related risk factors leading to prodromal relationships. By examining clinical trials, a better understanding of whether ADHD and PBD have a stepwise progression or if other factors influence these comorbidities, such as blurred lines of diagnostic criteria. Those with ADHD are also at an increased risk of impairment at work and in social settings. This manuscript explores both progression of this disease and its clinical connections to other disorders.
Who Criticizes the Clergy in Contemporary Lithuania? A Sociohistorical Analysis of Anticlericalism
Authors: Alisauskiene Milda , Zilys Apolonijus
Published: December 2021

This paper analyzes the phenomenon of anticlericalism in contemporary Lithuania, applying a sociohistorical approach. It starts with a discussion on the problem of criticism of religion and anticlericalism in contemporary societies, and particularly Lithuania. The empirical part of the paper provides a statistical data analysis of two surveys, conducted in 2012 and 2018. The secondary data analysis showed that age and place of residence of Roman Catholics in Lithuania were statistically meaningful factors for the formation of anticlerical stances. Younger respondents expressed more critical stances towards the clergy, while respondents living in large cities of the country had more relaxed stances towards clergy than those living in small towns and rural areas. Living in a proximity to a Roman Catholic church in rural areas determined the prevalent anticlerical attitudes among the Lithuanian population.
Border Regimes: Homophobia and LGBT Place Making in Six Ordinary Cities in Europe
Authors: Klett-Davies Martina
Published: December 2021

European nation states increasingly hail LGBT identities as part of modern values; LGBT recognitions have become a symbol of secular achievements. Discourses around gay rights and sexual diversity are increasingly pitted against presumably homophobic and intolerant ‘others’. An increased intolerant and repressive attitude towards migrants and racialised minorities is justified by their supposed threat to exactly these values. LGBT tolerance is used as a marker for modern values and this positions LGBT people as ‘border patrollers’ who can count as part of the modern liberal nation. This paper analyses 92 interviews with LGBT participants who live in six small and medium sized ordinary cities in Europe. It discusses how their fear of homophobia is evaluated according to perceived sexual norms and attitudes at the neighbourhood level. Neighbourhoods are considered either LGBT friendly or unfriendly according to their socio-demographic characteristics that focus on social class and/or migration and that intersects with race, ethnicity and religion. Based on the findings, neighbourhoods are both a geographical and a cultural terrain that can be understood, organised and contested through a sexuality discourse in the production of border regimes that discipline and produce the confines of the normative, the ‘modern’ and the ‘backward’. Not only are LGBT people positioned as border patrollers but they express their fear of homophobia also through bordering. The neighbourhood can then be understood, organised and contested through a sexuality discourse in the production of border regimes.
The Outline of Constitutional Regulations on the Freedom of Conscience and Religion in Poland
Authors: Bisztyga Andrzej , Kuczma Paweł
Published: December 2021

Freedom of conscience and religion is one of the fundamental freedoms of person. This freedom is a constitutionally registered freedom and its exercise, like its constitutional guarantees, is the foundation of the modern concept of a democratic state’s rule of law. At the same time, the concept of a democratic rule of law is a source of limitations for this freedom, implemented in the spirit of European standards. The regulation of the freedom of conscience and religion under the Constitution of the Republic of Poland is a relatively extensive regulation, showing its own specificity, rooted in the experiences of the past, undemocratic political reality. Freedom of conscience and religion cannot be considered solely in the sphere of the psyche and in the sphere of privacy. On the contrary, it has an important public-law dimension. The issue taken up is closely related to the freedom of worldview, which determines both the behavior of the individual towards himself and the behavior of the individual towards other people and towards the community. The author presents and analyzes the regulation in question against the background of the principles determining the position of churches and religious associations in the state and their relations with the state.
Relationships among the Fossil Fuel and Financial Markets during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from Bayesian DCC-MGARCH Models
Authors: Tang Chaofeng , Aruga Kentaka
Published: December 2021

This study examined how the relationships among the fossil fuel, clean energy stock, gold, and Bitcoin markets have changed since the COVID-19 pandemic took place for hedging the price change risks in the fossil fuel markets. We applied the Bayesian Dynamic Conditional Correlation-Multivariate GARCH (DCC-MGARCH) models using US daily data from 2 January 2019 to 26 February 2021. Our results suggest that the fossil fuel (WTI crude oil and natural gas) and financial markets (clean energy stock, gold, and Bitcoin) generally had negative relationships in 2019 before the pandemic prevailed, but they became positive for a while in mid-2020, alternating between positive (0.8) and negative values (−0.8). As it is known that negative relationships are required among assets to hedge the risk of price changes, this implies that stakeholders need to be cautious in hedging the risk across the fossil fuel and financial markets when a crisis like COVID-19 occurs. However, our study also revealed that such negative relationships only lasted for three to six months, suggesting that the effects of the pandemic were short term and that stakeholders in the fossil fuel markets could cross hedge with the financial markets in the long term.
Profitability of Gliricidia-Maize System in Selected Dryland Areas of Dodoma Region, Tanzania
Authors: Swamila Martha , Philip Damas , Akyoo Adam Meshack , Manda Julius , Mwinuka Lutengano , Smethurst Philip J. , Sieber Stefan , Kimaro Anthony Anderson
Published: December 2021

Declining soil fertility and climatic extremes are among major problems for agricultural production in most dryland agro-ecologies of sub-Saharan Africa. In response, the agroforestry technology intercropping of Gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.)) and Maize (Zea mays L.) was developed to complement conventional soil fertility management technologies. However, diversified information on the profitability of Gliricidia-Maize intercropping system in dryland areas is scanty. Using data from the Gliricidia and maize models of the Next Generation version of the Agriculture Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM), this study estimates the profitability of the Gliricidia-Maize system relative to an unfertilized sole maize system. Results show significant heterogeneity in profitability indicators both in absolute and relative economic terms. Aggregated over a 20-year cycle, Gliricidia-Maize intercropping exhibited a higher Net Present Value (NPV = Tsh 19,238,798.43) and Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR = 4.27) than the unfertilized sole maize system. The NPV and BCR of the latter were Tsh 10,934,669.90 and 3.59, respectively. Moreover, the returns to labour per person day in the Gliricidia-Maize system was 1.5 times those of the unfertilized sole maize system. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the profitability of the Gliricidia-Maize system is more negatively affected by the decrease in output prices than the increase in input prices. A 30% decrease in the former leads to a decrease in NPV and BCR by 38% and 30%, respectively. Despite the higher initial costs of the agroforestry establishment, the 30% increase in input prices affects more disproportionally unfertilized sole maize than the Gliricidia-Maize system in absolute economic terms, i.e., 11.1% versus 8.8% decrease in NPV. In relative economic terms, an equal magnitude of change in input prices exerts the same effect on the unfertilized sole maize and the Gliricidia-maize systems. This result implies that the monetary benefits accrued after the first year of agroforestry establishment offset the initial investment costs. The Gliricidia-Maize intercropping technology therefore is profitable with time, and it can contribute to increased household income and food security. Helping farmers to overcome initial investment costs and manage agroforestry technologies well to generate additional benefits is critical for the successful scaling of the Gliricidia-Maize intercropping technology in dryland areas of Dodoma, Tanzania.
The Effect of Leisure and Recreation on Sustainable Tourism: An Editorial Commentary
Authors: Lee Tsung-Hung , Jan Fen-Hauh
Published: December 2021

This article aims to introduce a Special Issue that contains five chosen articles on sustainability [...]
The Effects of Organic Certification on Shoppers’ Purchase Intention Formation in Taiwan: A Multi-Group Analysis of Structural Invariance
Authors: Liu Ming
Published: December 2021

Labeling products with organic certification logos is a means of indicating to consumers that those products are government certified. However, in Taiwan, organic certification is not required before a food product claims itself organic. Since previous research showed that the COVID-19 lockdown effected both Spanish and Romanian subjects’ intention to purchase more sustainable products, the aim of this study was to determine whether the perception of organic certification labeling makes a difference in how organic shoppers’ purchasing intentions toward organic produce were realized. Data from organic produce shoppers were used to identify organic certification labeling differences. One group of shoppers was asked about their purchase behaviors toward government-certified organic produce labeled with the certification logo (N = 468), while the other was asked about their purchase behaviors toward self-claimed organic produce without a government certification logo (N = 403). Multi-group structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques were employed as the main method of analysis in this study. The results indicated that the hypothesized model was validated. In addition, through this process, it was clarified that this government organic certification labeling significantly enhances the influence of organic produce shoppers’ behavioral beliefs regarding organic produce on their attitudes.
New Cosmological Solutions of a Nonlocal Gravity Model
Authors: Dimitrijevic Ivan , Dragovich Branko , Rakic Zoran , Stankovic Jelena
Published: December 2021

A nonlocal gravity model (2) was introduced and considered recently, and two exact cosmological solutions in flat space were presented. The first solution is related to some radiation effects generated by nonlocal dynamics on dark energy background, while the second one is a nonsingular time symmetric bounce. In the present paper, we investigate other possible exact cosmological solutions and find some the new ones in nonflat space. Used nonlocal gravity dynamics can change the background topology. To solve the corresponding equations of motion, we first look for a solution of the eigenvalue problem □(R−4Λ)=q(R−4Λ). We also discuss possible extension of this model with a nonlocal operator, symmetric under □⟷□−1, and its connection with another interesting nonlocal gravity model.
Production Mechanism of the Charmed Baryon Λc+
Authors: Wang Weiping , Zhou Xiaorong , Ferroli Rinaldo Baldini , Huang Guangshun
Published: December 2021

As the lightest charmed baryon, precision measurement of the pair production cross section of Λc+ provides unprecedented experimental information for the investigation of baryon production mechanism. In addition, the extraction of the polar angle distributions of the outgoing Λc+ in the annihilation of the electron–positron help to determine its electromagnetic form factors, which is currently the unique key to access the internal structure of the baryons. In this article, the measurement of e+e−→Λc+Λ¯c− process via the initial state radiation technique at Belle detector and direct electron–positron annihilation at BESIII with discrete center-of-mass energies near threshold are briefly reviewed. In addition, the electromagnetic form factor ratios of Λc+ measured by BESIII are also investigated. A few theoretical models that parameterize the center-of-mass energy dependence of the cross section and electromagnetic form factors of baryon are introduced and the contributions of Λc+ data to them are discussed.
Activity of Galidesivir in a Hamster Model of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Taylor Ray , Bowen Richard , Demarest James F. , DeSpirito Michael , Hartwig Airn , Bielefeldt-Ohmann Helle , Walling Dennis M. , Mathis Amanda , Babu Yarlagadda S.
Published: December 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has claimed the lives of millions of people worldwide since it first emerged. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public health and the global economy has highlighted the medical need for the development of broadly acting interventions against emerging viral threats. Galidesivir is a broad-spectrum antiviral compound with demonstrated in vitro and in vivo efficacy against several RNA viruses of public health concern, including those causing yellow fever, Ebola, Marburg, and Rift Valley fever. In vitro studies have shown that the antiviral activity of galidesivir also extends to coronaviruses. Herein, we describe the efficacy of galidesivir in the Syrian golden hamster model of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Treatment with galidesivir reduced lung pathology in infected animals compared with untreated controls when treatment was initiated 24 h prior to infection. These results add to the evidence of the applicability of galidesivir as a potential medical intervention for a range of acute viral illnesses, including coronaviruses.
Expression of Concern: Jiang, H.; Mei, Y.-F. SARS-CoV-2 Spike Impairs DNA Damage Repair and Inhibits V(D)J Recombination In Vitro. Viruses 2021, 13, 2056
Authors: Freed Eric O. , Schildgen Oliver
Published: December 2021

We are issuing this expression of concern in consultation with the publisher to fulfil their reporting obligation regarding the publication [...]
A Simple Example on Life Cycle Assessment of Wood Harvesting Technologies in Turkish Forestry to Mitigate Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: EKER Mehmet , ÇOBAN H. Oğuz
Published: December 2021

The forestry sector plays a key role in mitigating the negative effects of climate change. Wood supply chain (harvesting and transportation) have adverse impacts on forest environment. With respect to the interaction between forest and harvest operations, one of the key issue is the changes in carbon stock. The study on the emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from wood supply in Turkey was undertaken to exemplify the adverse impacts of the harvest operations on global warming potential and climate change. The subject of this study, was to evaluate the primary roundwood production activities in terms of environmental impacts. The environmental impacts metrics were generally based on global warming potential, measured in CO2-equivalent GHG. The system boundary for this study was restricted to supply chain operations associated with roundwood harvesting and transportation. The impacts of forest operations on climate change may be reduced by choosing the best technologies for general forest conditions. LCA (life cycle assessment)-based systematic comparative analysis of different modes of harvesting systems and technological options were considered for the quantification of adverse impacts. To evaluate and control the wood supply chain, life cycle analysis can be a powerful decision mechanism. Operational modifications can be needed to reach the target of GHG minimization.
Stream-crossing Approaches on Forest Roads Networks: A Critical Review on Practices in Türkiye
Authors: GÜMÜŞ Selçuk
Published: December 2021

Appropriate planning and construction of the stream-crossing structures projecting is very important in forest road networks in order to use the roads throughout the planned lifetime and ensure their desired services. Crossing structures in Turkish forestry are planned according to the cross-sectional area value calculated with the Talbot formula which is the general approach to the issue. However, localized precipitation values are not used in the Talbot formula; therefore, significant damages may occur in flood flows due to structural sizing errors. The aim of this study is to suggest a strategy that can be used in Turkish forestry in planning stream-crossing structures.
COMPARATIVO DE CUSTO DE LIGAÇÕES DE ÁGUA PELOS MÉTODOS DESTRUTIVO (MD) E NÃO DESTRUTIVO (MND): ESTUDO PARA A CIDADE DE PALMAS – TO
Authors: Parente Dênis Cardoso , Picanço Aurélio Pessoa , Lopes Mendonça Kenia Parente
Published: December 2021

Contribuir para a tomada de decisão quanto aos métodos de execução dos serviços de engenharia tem sido o pensamento preeminente dos profissionais do trabalho. As obras de saneamento, em especial as instalações de potenciais ligações de água tratada no município de Palmas - TO, são o objeto de estudo desta pesquisa. Os trabalhos foram desenvolvidos com base no monitoramento das obras e na elaboração de planilhas orçamentárias com custos relacionados ao método convencional (método destrutivo) já difundido e ao método não destrutivo de implantação de ramais de ligações de água na cidade. Buscou-se identificar, dentre as práticas adotadas para o sistema de ligações de água, os serviços demandados pelos métodos praticados pela concessionária de abastecimento local, os mais relevantes técnica e financeiramente, bem como as condições de execução e execução das obras. Percebe-se que os custos das ligações estão diretamente relacionados ao comprimento do ramal e às condições dos pavimentos e calçadas, conforme dados coletados no local e plantas das redes de abastecimento.
CONTENT CHARACTERISTICS OF DEFINITION THE “DIFFICULT TEENAGERS”
Authors: TARANENKO I. , ZAITSEVA Yu.
Published: December 2021

The problem of upbringing of difficult teenagers in pedagogical theory and practice has been and remains the subject of special attention of pedagogical scientists were found out during analyzed scientific works in this article. The difficult teenagers in educational terms – are just ordinary children who have a specific personality particularity, namely, they are difficulties to upbringing. The children who are the difficult to upbringing, they are characterized by developmental defects and violations of norms and rules of behavior. This is why the difficult teenagers need the formation of moral and volitional qualities, the formation of socially significant value orientations, the mobilization of personal resources and sustainable socialization extremely hard.The complex patterns of adolescence, negative socio-economic and political processes, the parental views on upbringing and their pedagogical methods, shortcomings in the work of educational institutions also were mentioned in this article. And the category of difficult teenagers arose as a result of these influences.The essence and content of the concept the «difficult teenagers» has been determined in this article.