bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Piwi Genes during the Regeneration of Lineus sanguineus (Nemertea, Pilidiophora, Heteronemertea)
Authors: Xu Cong-Mei , Sun Shi-Chun
Published: December 2020

The transposon silencer piwi genes play important roles in germline determination and maintenance, gametogenesis, and stem-cell self-renewal, and the expression of certain piwi genes is indispensable for regeneration. Knowledge about piwi genes is needed for phylum Nemertea, which contains members (e.g., Lineus sanguineus) with formidable regeneration capacity. By searching the L. sanguineus genome, we identified six Argonaute genes including three ago (Ls-Ago2, Ls-Ago2a, and Ls-Ago2b) and three piwi (Ls-piwi1, Ls-piwi2, and Ls-piwi3) genes. In situ hybridization revealed that, in intact females, Ls-piwi2 and Ls-piwi3 were not expressed, while Ls-piwi1 was expressed in ovaries. During regeneration, Ls-piwi1 and Ls-pcna (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) had strong and similar expressions. The expression of Ls-piwi1 became indetectable while Ls-pcna continued to be expressed when the differentiation of new organs was finished. During anterior regeneration, expression signals of Ls-piwi2 and Ls-piwi3 were weak and only detected in the blastema stage. During posterior regeneration, no expression was observed for Ls-piwi2. To date, no direct evidence has been found for the existence of congenital stem cells in adult L. sanguineus. The “pluripotent cells” in regenerating tissues are likely to be dedifferentiated from other type(s) of cells.
citSATdb: Genome-Wide Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) Marker Database of Citrus Species for Germplasm Characterization and Crop Improvement
Authors: Duhan Naveen , Meshram Manish , Loaiza Cristian D. , Kaundal Rakesh
Published: December 2020

Microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSRs) are popular co-dominant markers that play an important role in crop improvement. To enhance genomic resources in general horticulture, we identified SSRs in the genomes of eight citrus species and characterized their frequency and distribution in different genomic regions. Citrus is the world’s most widely cultivated fruit crop. We have implemented a microsatellite database, citSATdb, having the highest number (~1,296,500) of putative SSR markers from the genus Citrus, represented by eight species. The database is based on a three-tier approach using MySQL, PHP, and Apache. The markers can be searched using multiple search parameters including chromosome/scaffold number(s), motif types, repeat nucleotides (1–6), SSR length, patterns of repeat motifs and chromosome/scaffold location. The cross-species transferability of selected markers can be checked using e-PCR. Further, the markers can be visualized using the Jbrowse feature. These markers can be used for distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) tests of variety identification, marker-assisted selection (MAS), gene discovery, QTL mapping, and germplasm characterization. citSATdb represents a comprehensive source of markers for developing/implementing new approaches for molecular breeding, required to enhance Citrus productivity. The potential polymorphic SSR markers identified by cross-species transferability could be used for genetic diversity and population distinction in other species.
Global Trends in Child Obesity: Are Figures Converging?
Authors: González-Álvarez María A. , Lázaro-Alquézar Angelina , Simón-Fernández María Blanca
Published: December 2020

Childhood obesity has become one of the most serious global health challenges of our time. The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity has rapidly increased worldwide during the last two decades, especially in some developing countries where obesity is reaching levels on a par with some industrialized countries, or even higher. This fast growth has occurred especially in countries in the midst of rapid social-economic transitions. Most international comparisons focus on the adult population while analyses focusing on the child population are more limited. Using the methodology developed by Phillips and Sul, this paper studies the worldwide evolution of children’s body mass index (BMI), overweight and obesity prevalence for a large sample of countries during the period 1975–2016. Our results indicate that the figures for BMI or the prevalence of obesity in different countries do not converge, while the opposite is the case for overweight prevalence in children. Furthermore, there is a non-linear relationship between obesity and income or human capital, indicating that low and middle-income countries require a strong initiative for health policies targeting obesity prevention.
Rare Pathogenic Copy Number Variation in the 16p11.2 (BP4–BP5) Region Associated with Neurodevelopmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Oliva-Teles Natália , de Stefano Maria Chiara , Gallagher Louise , Rakic Severin , Jorge Paula , Cuturilo Goran , Markovska-Simoska Silvana , Borg Isabella , Wolstencroft Jeanne , Tümer Zeynep , Harwood Adrian J. , Kodra Yllka , Skuse David
Published: December 2020

Copy number variants (CNVs) play an important role in the genetic underpinnings of neuropsychiatric/neurodevelopmental disorders. The chromosomal region 16p11.2 (BP4–BP5) harbours both deletions and duplications that are associated in carriers with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions as well as several rare disorders including congenital malformation syndromes. The aim of this article is to provide a review of the current knowledge of the diverse neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) associated with 16p11.2 deletions and duplications reported in published cohorts. A literature review was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE electronic database limited to papers published in English between 1 January 2010 and 31 July 2020, describing 16p11.2 deletions and duplications carriers’ cohorts. Twelve articles meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed from the 75 articles identified by the search. Of these twelve papers, eight described both deletions and duplications, three described deletions only and one described duplications only. This study highlights the heterogeneity of NDD descriptions of the selected cohorts and inconsistencies concerning accuracy of data reporting.
Self-Reported Musculoskeletal Disorders and Quality of Life in Supermarket Cashiers
Authors: Algarni Fahad Saad , Alkhaldi Hatem Askar , Zafar Hamayun , Kachanathu Shaji John , Al-Shenqiti Abdullah M. , Altowaijri Abdulrahman Mohammed
Published: December 2020

Supermarket cashiers face a significant amount of stress, including time constraints, mental pressure, and physical demands that require repetitive movements. The job description of a supermarket cashier involves work-related risk factors that may lead to musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) symptoms. This study aimed to investigate supermarket cashiers to determine the prevalence of MSD symptoms and their quality of life. Data were collected from a convenience sample of supermarket cashiers working in Saudi Arabia. Information included direct questions on pain in the previous 12 months, demographic data, and health- or occupation-related factors. Moreover, data was collected based on the 36-item short form survey (SF-36), and descriptive statistics were computed. A total of 193 supermarket cashiers participated in this study. The sample included 140 men (72.5%) and 53 women (27.5%), with a mean age of 27.2 ± 6.4 years. The majority of the participants (90%) had MSD symptoms in at least one body region, with the neck (66.84%) and lower back (65.80%) constituting the most prominent regions. The mean SF-36 scores were higher in participants without pain compared to participants with pain in all domains, except for the physical functioning domain. The high prevalence of MSD symptoms among young cashiers suggest the need for additional investigations to determine the risk factors of these disorders. Additionally, this study recommends preventive procedures to reduce the prevalence of MSD symptoms among cashiers.
Spheroid-Like Cultures for Expanding Angiopoietin Receptor-1 (aka. Tie2) Positive Cells from the Human Intervertebral Disc
Authors: Zhang Xingshuo , Guerrero Julien , Croft Andreas S. , Albers Christoph E. , Häckel Sonja , Gantenbein Benjamin
Published: December 2020

Lower back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide. The recovery of nucleus pulposus (NP) progenitor cells (NPPCs) from the intervertebral disc (IVD) holds high promise for future cell therapy. NPPCs are positive for the angiopoietin-1 receptor (Tie2) and possess stemness capacity. However, the limited Tie2+ NPC yield has been a challenge for their use in cell-based therapy for regenerative medicine. In this study, we attempted to expand NPPCs from the whole NP cell population by spheroid-formation assay. Flow cytometry was used to quantify the percentage of NPPCs with Tie2-antibody in human primary NP cells (NPCs). Cell proliferation was assessed using the population doublings level (PDL) measurement. Synthesis and presence of extracellular matrix (ECM) from NPC spheroids were confirmed by quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR), immunostaining, and microscopy. Compared with monolayer, the spheroid-formation assay enriched the percentage of Tie2+ in NPCs’ population from ~10% to ~36%. Moreover, the spheroid-formation assay also inhibited the proliferation of the Tie2- NPCs with nearly no PDL. After one additional passage (P) using the spheroid-formation assay, NPC spheroids presented a Tie2+ percentage even further by ~10% in the NPC population. Our study concludes that the use of a spheroid culture system could be successfully applied to the culture and expansion of tissue-specific progenitors.
Impact of Hormonal Replacement Therapy on Bone Mineral Density in Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Patients
Authors: Podfigurna Agnieszka , Maciejewska-Jeske Marzena , Nadolna Malgorzata , Mikolajska-Ptas Paula , Szeliga Anna , Bilinski Przemyslaw , Napierala Paulina , Meczekalski Blazej
Published: December 2020

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a type of hypergonadotropic hypogonadism caused by impaired ovarian function before the age of 40. Due to the hypoestrogenism, women with POI experience a variety of health complications, including an increased risk of bone mineral density loss and developing osteopenia and osteoporosis, which poses an important problem for public health. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the values of bone mineral density (BMD), T-score and Z-score within the lumbar spine (L1-L4) using the dual energy X-ray absorptiometry method. The dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans described in this original prospective article were performed at the time of POI diagnosis and after treatment with sequential hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Materials and methods: This study included 132 patients with a mean age of 31.86 ± 7.75 years who had been diagnosed with idiopathic POI. The control group consisted of 17 healthy women with regular menstrual cycles, with a mean age of 23.21 ± 5.86 years. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-estradiol (E2), prolactin (PRL), testosterone (T), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), insulin, and fasting serum glucose were measured. Lumbar spine (L1-L4) BMD was assessed by means of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. DXA scans were performed at the time of diagnosis and following treatment with sequential hormone replacement therapy (HRT) comprised of daily oral 2 mg 17-β-estradiol and 10 mg dydrogesterone. The mean time of observation was 3 ± 2 years. Results: Patients in the POI group presented with characteristic hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. They had a significantly decreased mean lumbar spine BMD when compared to healthy controls (1.088 ± 0.14 g/cm2) vs. 1.150 ± 0.30 g/cm2) (p = 0.04) as well as a decreased T-score (0.75 ± 1.167 vs. −0.144 ± 0.82) (p = 003). There was a significant increase in BMD (1.088 ± 0.14 vs. 1.109 ± 0.14; p < 0.001), T-score (−0.75 ± 1.17 vs. −0.59 ± 1.22; p < 0.001), and Z-score (−0.75 ± 1.12 vs. −0.49 ± 1.11; p < 0.001) after the implementation of HRT when compared to pre-treatment results. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study has demonstrated that patients with POI often have decreased bone mineral density and that the implementation of HRT has a significant and positive influence on bone mass. The implementation of full-dose HRT and monitoring of bone status is particularly important in these patients.
Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting (MACS): A Useful Sperm-Selection Technique in Cases of High Levels of Sperm DNA Fragmentation
Authors: Pacheco Alberto , Blanco Arancha , Bronet Fernando , Cruz María , García-Fernández Jaime , García-Velasco Juan Antonio
Published: December 2020

Magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) can be used to separate apoptotic sperm with high proportions of fragmented DNA from the rest, thus improving the overall quality of the seminal sample. Therefore, the aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the efficiency of the MACS technique to increase reproductive outcomes in patients with high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm-injection (ICSI) cycles. In this study, we analyzed a total of 724 assisted-reproduction-technique (ART) cycles that were divided into two groups: the study group (n = 366) in which the MACS selection technique was performed after density-gradient centrifugation (DGC), and the control group (n = 358) in which only DGC was used for sperm selection. Reproductive outcomes were analyzed in both groups according to three different ART procedures: preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), and autologous and oocyte-donation cycles. The MACS group showed significantly lower miscarriage rates in autologous ICSI cycles, higher pregnancy rates in oocyte-donation cycles, and a significant increase in live-birth rates in both autologous and oocyte-donation cycles. Overall, these results suggested that the MACS technique can be effectively used to eliminate sperm with high SDF levels, and therefore may help to improve reproductive outcomes in couples undergoing ART.
Cannabinoids in Glaucoma Patients: The Never-Ending Story
Authors: Passani Andrea , Posarelli Chiara , Sframeli Angela Tindara , Perciballi Laura , Pellegrini Marco , Guidi Gianluca , Figus Michele
Published: December 2020

Glaucoma is one of the principal causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Yet, intraocular pressure (IOP) is the main modifiable risk factor for disease progression. In the never-ending challenge to develop new and effective drugs, several molecules have been tested as anti-glaucoma agents thanks to their pressure-lowering capabilities. Among these molecules, the cannabinoids have been investigated as possible anti-glaucoma drugs since the early 1970s. Cannabinoids are a large class of chemical compounds that exploit their effects by interaction with cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2. These receptors are widely expressed in the human retina where they may influence important functions such as photo-transduction, amacrine cell network maintenance, and IOP regulation. Therefore, in past years several studies have been conducted in order to assess the IOP lowering effects of cannabinoids. PRISMA guidelines have been used to perform a literature search on Pubmed and Scopus aiming to investigate the mechanism of IOP lowering effects and the potential benefits of orally administered, inhaled, topical, and intravenous cannabinoids in the treatment of glaucoma patients.
Influence of Preparation Design, Marginal Gingiva Location, and Tooth Morphology on the Accuracy of Digital Impressions for Full-Crown Restorations: An In Vitro Investigation
Authors: Bernauer Selina A. , Müller Johannes , Zitzmann Nicola U. , Joda Tim
Published: December 2020

(1) Background: Intraoral optical scanning (IOS) has gained increased importance in prosthodontics. The aim of this in vitro study was to analyze the IOS accuracy for treatment with full crowns, considering possible influencing factors. (2) Methods: Two tooth morphologies, each with four different finish-line designs for tooth preparation and epi- or supragingival locations, were digitally designed, 3D-printed, and post-processed for 16 sample abutment teeth. Specimens were digitized using a laboratory scanner to generate reference STLs (Standard Tessellation Language), and were secondary-scanned with two IOS systems five times each in a complete-arch model scenario (Trios 3 Pod, Primescan AC). For accuracy, a best-fit algorithm (Final Surface) was used to analyze deviations of the abutment teeth based on 160 IOS-STLs compared to the reference STLs (16 preparations × 2 IOS-systems × 5 scans per tooth). (3) Results: Analysis revealed homogenous findings with high accuracy for intra- and inter-group comparisons for both IOS systems, with mean values of 80% quantiles from 20 ± 2 μm to 50 ± 5 μm. Supragingival finishing lines demonstrated significantly higher accuracy than epigingival margins when comparing each preparation (p < 0.05), whereas tangential preparations exhibited similar results independent of the gingival location. Morphology of anterior versus posterior teeth showed slightly better results in favor of molars in combination with shoulder preparations only. (4) Conclusion: The clinical challenge for the treatment with full crowns following digital impressions is the location of the prospective restoration margin related to the distance to the gingiva. However, the overall accuracy for all abutment teeth was very high; thus, the factors tested are unlikely to have a strong clinical impact.
Stimuli Characteristics and Psychophysical Requirements for Visual Training in Amblyopia: A Narrative Review
Authors: Hernández-Rodríguez Carlos J. , Piñero David P. , Molina-Martín Ainhoa , Morales-Quezada León , de Fez Dolores , Leal-Vega Luis , Arenillas Juan F. , Coco-Martín María Begoña
Published: December 2020

Active vision therapy using perceptual learning and/or dichoptic or binocular environments has shown its potential effectiveness in amblyopia, but some doubts remain about the type of stimuli and the mode and sequence of presentation that should be used. A search was performed in PubMed, obtaining 143 articles with information related to the stimuli used in amblyopia rehabilitation, as well as to the neural mechanisms implied in such therapeutic process. Visual deficits in amblyopia and their neural mechanisms associated are revised, including visual acuity loss, contrast sensitivity reduction and stereopsis impairment. Likewise, the most appropriate stimuli according to the literature that should be used for an efficient rehabilitation of the amblyopic eye are described in detail, including optotypes, Gabor’s patches, random-dot stimuli and Vernier’s stimuli. Finally, the properties of these stimuli that can be modified during the visual training are discussed, as well as the psychophysical method of their presentation and the type of environment used (perceptual learning, dichoptic stimulation or virtual reality). Vision therapy using all these revised concepts can be an effective option for treating amblyopia or accelerating the treatment period when combining with patching. It is essential to adapt the stimuli to the patient’s individual features in both monocular and binocular training.
Advances and Trends in Pediatric Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Meinzer Andreas , Alkatout Ibrahim , Krebs Thomas Franz , Baastrup Jonas , Reischig Katja , Meiksans Roberts , Bergholz Robert
Published: December 2020

As many meta-analyses comparing pediatric minimally invasive to open surgery can be found in the literature, the aim of this review is to summarize the current state of minimally invasive pediatric surgery and specifically focus on the trends and developments which we expect in the upcoming years. Print and electronic databases were systematically searched for specific keywords, and cross-link searches with references found in the literature were added. Full-text articles were obtained, and eligibility criteria were applied independently. Pediatric minimally invasive surgery is a wide field, ranging from minimally invasive fetal surgery over microlaparoscopy in newborns to robotic surgery in adolescents. New techniques and devices, like natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), single-incision and endoscopic surgery, as well as the artificial uterus as a backup for surgery in preterm fetuses, all contribute to the development of less invasive procedures for children. In spite of all promising technical developments which will definitely change the way pediatric surgeons will perform minimally invasive procedures in the upcoming years, one must bear in mind that only hard data of prospective randomized controlled and double-blind trials can validate whether these techniques and devices really improve the surgical outcome of our patients.
Implementation of Website Marketing Strategies in Sports Tourism: Analysis of the Online Presence and E-Commerce of Golf Courses
Authors: Daries Natalia , Cristobal-Fransi Eduard , Ferrer-Rosell Berta
Published: December 2020

As a sports activity with immense tradition, current offerings and future prospects, golfing represents a first-rate tourist resource. In choosing golfing destinations, tourists rely upon information that is available online, just as consumers do in making decisions about any resource. Thus, in our study, we sought to profile the internet presence of golf courses in Catalonia, as well as the maturity of their e-commerce. To that end, we developed an integrated model for analysing the websites of golf courses: one based on web content analysis and structured with four dimensions (i.e., information, communication, e-commerce and additional functions) and the phases of the extended model of internet commerce adoption (eMICA). Applied to all golf courses in Catalonia that operate websites, the model revealed that, despite the sport’s great importance to the local economy and tourism, the golf courses do not have an adequate online presence or sufficient platforms for communication. The present work includes information on its theoretical contribution, implications for management, limitations and future lines of research.
The Potential of Switchgrass and Miscanthus to Enhance Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration—Predicted by DayCent Model
Authors: Jarecki Marek , Kariyapperuma Kumudinie , Deen Bill , Graham Jordan , Bazrgar Amir Behzad , Vijayakumar Sowthini , Thimmanagari Mahendra , Gordon Andrew , Voroney Paul , Thevathasan Naresh
Published: December 2020

Warm season perennial C4 grasses (WSGs), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) and miscanthus species (Miscanthus spp.), have been reported to positively influence short-term (15–20 years) soil organic carbon (SOC). In this study, the DayCent model was used to predict changes in long-term SOC stocks under WSGs for moderate (Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5) and high (RCP 8.5) warming climate change scenarios in southern Ontario, Canada, and to determine how long the enhanced SOC stock will last when WSGs are converted back to annual crop rotation. The model predicted that a consistent corn–corn–soybean–winter wheat (CCSW) rotation prevented SOC from depletion over the 21st century. Under WSGs, the model predicted high rates of SOC sequestration during the first 20–30 years which then tended to stabilize after 50–60 years. However, the rate of SOC sequestration over 90 years for RCP 4.5 was 0.26 and 0.94 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 for switchgrass and miscanthus, respectively. If 40-year stands of WSGs are converted back to CCSW, the model predicted SOC decline to the previous level in 40–50 years. DayCent predicted that under RCP 8.5 scenario in the second half of the 21st century and in the future, there will be a reduction in SOC stocks, especially under miscanthus stands.
Surface Properties of Halloysite-Carbon Nanocomposites and Their Application for Adsorption of Paracetamol
Authors: Szczepanik Beata , Banaś Dariusz , Kubala-Kukuś Aldona , Szary Karol , Słomkiewicz Piotr , Rędzia Nina , Frydel Laura
Published: December 2020

Analysis of surface properties of halloysite-carbon nanocomposites and non-modified halloysite was carried out with surface sensitive X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and inverse gas chromatography (IGC). The XPS spectra were measured in a wide range of the electron binding energy (survey spectra) and in the region of C 1s photoelectron peak (narrow scans). The IGC results show the changes of halloysite surface from basic for pure halloysite to acidic for carbon-halloysite nanocomposites. Halloysite-carbon nanocomposites were used as adsorbents of paracetamol from an aqueous solution. The adsorption mechanism was found to follow the pseudo-second-order and intra-particle diffusion models. The Langmuir multi-center adsorption model described well the obtained experimental data. The presence of carbon increased significantly the adsorption ability of halloysite-carbon nanocomposites for paracetamol in comparison to the non-modified halloysite.
Structural Connectivity-Based Parcellation of the Dopaminergic Midbrain in Healthy Subjects and Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Basile Gianpaolo Antonio , Bramanti Alessia , Bertino Salvatore , Cutroneo Giuseppina , Bruno Antonio , Tisano Adriana , Paladina Giuseppe , Milardi Demetrio , Anastasi Giuseppe
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives: Functional deregulation of dopaminergic midbrain regions is a core feature of schizophrenia pathophysiology. Anatomical research on primates suggests that these regions may be subdivided into distinct, topographically organized functional territories according to their connectivity to the striatum. The aim of the present work was the reconstruction of dopaminergic midbrain subregions in healthy subjects and schizophrenic patients and the evaluation of their structural connectivity profiles. Materials and Methods: A hypothesis-driven connectivity-based parcellation derived from diffusion tractography was applied on 24 healthy subjects and 30 schizophrenic patients to identify distinct territories within the human dopaminergic midbrain in vivo and non-invasively. Results: We identified a tripartite subdivision of dopaminergic midbrain, including limbic, prefrontal and sensorimotor territories. No significant differences in structural features or connectivity were found between subjects and patients. Conclusions: The parcellation scheme proposed herein may help to achieve detailed characterization of structural and functional anomalies of the dopaminergic midbrain in schizophrenic patients.
EEN Yesterday and Today … CDED Today and Tomorrow
Authors: Herrador-López Marta , Martín-Masot Rafael , Navas-López Víctor Manuel
Published: December 2020

The treatment of Pediatric Crohn’s Disease (CD) requires attention both to achieve mucosal healing and to optimize growth, while also maintaining proper bone health. Exclusive Enteral Nutrition (EEN) is recommended as first-line treatment in luminal CD. The therapeutic mechanisms of EEN are being discovered by advances in the study of the gut microbiota. Although the total exclusion of a normal diet during the time of EEN continues to be of high importance, new modalities of dietary treatment suggest a successful future for the nutritional management of CD. In this sense, Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED) is a long-term strategy, it apparently acts on the mechanisms that influence the appearance of inflammation (reducing dietary exposure to products negatively affecting the microbiota), but does so using specific available whole foods to achieve this goal, increases the time of clinical remission and promotes healthy lifestyle habits. The development of CDED, which partly minimizes the problems of EEN, has enabled a turnaround in the treatment of pediatric CD. This review highlights the role of enteral nutrition in the treatment of Crohn’s disease with special emphasis on newer dietary modalities such as CDED.
What Are the Core Competencies of a Mental Health Nurse? Protocol for a Concept Mapping Study
Authors: Moyo Nompilo , Jones Martin , Cardwell Rachel , Gray Richard
Published: December 2020

This study aims to identify and contrast key stakeholder perspectives about the core competencies of mental health nurses. Mental health nurses provide much of the direct care and treatment to patients with mental disorders. The perspectives of users of mental health services, mental health nurses, mental health nurse clinical leaders, psychiatrists, and mental health nurse academics regarding the core competencies of a mental health nurse are informative to improve the quality of care given to patients. We will use concept mapping to compare and contrast the views of different stakeholder groups (n = 50, 10 per group) about the core competencies (knowledge, skills, and attitudes) of mental health nurses. There are six stages in concept mapping: preparation, generation of statements, structuring of statements, representation of statements, interpretation of maps, and utilisation of maps. The Good Reporting of A Mixed Methods Study (GRAMMS) checklist will guide this study. The final output is a “concept map” that can be used and interpreted to understand core mental health nursing competencies. This study will provide insight into the perceived core competencies of mental health nurses from a variety of perspectives.
Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome Temporally Associated with SARS-CoV-2 Treated with Tocilizumab
Authors: Niño-Taravilla Carmen , Espinosa-Vielma Yazmín P. , Otaola-Arca Hugo , Poli-Harlowe Cecilia , Tapia Lorena I. , Ortiz-Fritz Paula
Published: December 2020

We describe a case of Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) in an 8-year-old child. The patient developed multiorgan dysfunction, including mixed shock, cardiac dysfunction with myocarditis, pneumonia, acute kidney failure, and gastrointestinal involvement characterized by inflammation of the wall of the bowel and pancreatitis. After treatment with Tocilizumab and corticoid therapy, he presented clinical improvement and normalization of inflammatory markers. PIMS-TS is a new disease developed in a small percentage of patients, so a high degree of suspicion is necessary to establish the diagnosis. Supportive care is of paramount importance. The use of Tocilizumab to control the inflammatory response is likely to be beneficial, but the best immunotherapeutic agent has not yet been established. Randomized clinical studies should be run to determine the best treatment.
A Bilayer Vaginal Tablet for the Localized Delivery of Disulfiram and 5-Fluorouracil to the Cervix
Authors: Abidin Ismin Zainol , Rezoagli Emanuele , Simonassi-Paiva Bianca , Fehrenbach Gustavo Waltzer , Masterson Kevin , Pogue Robert , Cao Zhi , Rowan Neil , Murphy Emma J. , Major Ian
Published: December 2020

This study was performed to develop an adjuvant therapy in the form of a self-administered vaginal tablet regimen for the localized delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs. This therapy will help to reduce relapse by eradicating cancerous cells in the margin of cervical tumors. The vaginal tablet is a very common formulation that is easy to manufacture, easy to place in the vagina, and has a low cost of manufacture, making them ideal for use in developing countries. A combination of disulfiram and 5-fluorouracil, which are both off-patent drugs and provide different modes of action, were evaluated. The tablets developed were evaluated for weight variation, thickness, hardness, friability, swelling index, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), particle morphology, in vitro drug release, and cytotoxicity on Ca-Ski cells. Both layers were designed to release both drugs concurrently for a synergistic effect. The polymer–polymer interaction between the layers was able to reduce the loss of formulation due to chitosan. While the bilayer tablet had satisfactory performance in the physicochemical tests, in vitro cell culture with Ca-Ski also showed a synergistic effect using a combination of drugs at a low dose. However, the formulation only had 24-h dose release before degradation. Further drug combinations should be evaluated in subsequent studies.
Hydrogels as Drug Delivery Systems: A Review of Current Characterization and Evaluation Techniques
Authors: Vigata Margaux , Meinert Christoph , Hutmacher Dietmar W. , Bock Nathalie
Published: December 2020

Owing to their tunable properties, controllable degradation, and ability to protect labile drugs, hydrogels are increasingly investigated as local drug delivery systems. However, a lack of standardized methodologies used to characterize and evaluate drug release poses significant difficulties when comparing findings from different investigations, preventing an accurate assessment of systems. Here, we review the commonly used analytical techniques for drug detection and quantification from hydrogel delivery systems. The experimental conditions of drug release in saline solutions and their impact are discussed, along with the main mathematical and statistical approaches to characterize drug release profiles. We also review methods to determine drug diffusion coefficients and in vitro and in vivo models used to assess drug release and efficacy with the goal to provide guidelines and harmonized practices when investigating novel hydrogel drug delivery systems.
A Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Model Network for the Prediction of CYP1A2 and CYP2C19 Drug–Drug–Gene Interactions with Fluvoxamine, Omeprazole, S-mephenytoin, Moclobemide, Tizanidine, Mexiletine, Ethinylestradiol, and Caffeine
Authors: Kanacher Tobias , Lindauer Andreas , Mezzalana Enrica , Michon Ingrid , Veau Celine , Mantilla Jose David Gómez , Nock Valerie , Fleury Angèle
Published: December 2020

Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling is a well-recognized method for quantitatively predicting the effect of intrinsic/extrinsic factors on drug exposure. However, there are only few verified, freely accessible, modifiable, and comprehensive drug–drug interaction (DDI) PBPK models. We developed a qualified whole-body PBPK DDI network for cytochrome P450 (CYP) CYP2C19 and CYP1A2 interactions. Template PBPK models were developed for interactions between fluvoxamine, S-mephenytoin, moclobemide, omeprazole, mexiletine, tizanidine, and ethinylestradiol as the perpetrators or victims. Predicted concentration–time profiles accurately described a validation dataset, including data from patients with genetic polymorphisms, demonstrating that the models characterized the CYP2C19 and CYP1A2 network over the whole range of DDI studies investigated. The models are provided on GitHub (GitHub Inc., San Francisco, CA, USA), expanding the library of publicly available qualified whole-body PBPK models for DDI predictions, and they are thereby available to support potential recommendations for dose adaptations, support labeling, inform the design of clinical DDI trials, and potentially waive those.
Scaffolds and Extracellular Vesicles as a Promising Approach for Cardiac Regeneration after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Riaud Melody , Martinez M. Carmen , Montero-Menei Claudia N.
Published: December 2020

Clinical studies have demonstrated the regenerative potential of stem cells for cardiac repair over the past decades, but their widespread use is limited by the poor tissue integration and survival obtained. Natural or synthetic hydrogels or microcarriers, used as cell carriers, contribute to resolving, in part, the problems encountered by providing mechanical support for the cells allowing cell retention, survival and tissue integration. Moreover, hydrogels alone also possess mechanical protective properties for the ischemic heart. The combined effect of growth factors with cells and an appropriate scaffold allow a therapeutic effect on myocardial repair. Despite this, the effects obtained with cell therapy remain limited and seem to be equivalent to the effects obtained with extracellular vesicles, key actors in intercellular communication. Extracellular vesicles have cardioprotective effects which, when combined proangiogenic properties with antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory actions, make it possible to act on all the damages caused by ischemia. The evolution of biomaterial engineering allows us to envisage their association with new major players in cardiac therapy, extracellular vesicles, in order to limit undesirable effects and to envisage a transfer to the clinic. This new therapeutic approach could be associated with the release of growth factors to potentialized the beneficial effect obtained.
Integrated Physiological and Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal a Regulatory Network of Anthocyanin Metabolism Contributing to the Ornamental Value in a Novel Hybrid Cultivar of Camellia japonica
Authors: Pan Liqin , Li Jiyuan , Yin Hengfu , Fan Zhengqi , Li Xinlei
Published: December 2020

Camellia japonica is a plant species with great ornamental and gardening values. A novel hybrid cultivar Chunjiang Hongxia (Camellia japonica cv. Chunjiang Hongxia, CH) possesses vivid red leaves from an early growth stage to a prolonged period and is, therefore, commercially valuable. The molecular mechanism underlying this red-leaf phenotype in C. japonica cv. CH is largely unknown. Here, we investigated the leaf coloration process, photosynthetic pigments contents, and different types of anthocyanin compounds in three growth stages of the hybrid cultivar CH and its parental cultivars. The gene co-expression network and differential expression analysis from the transcriptome data indicated that the changes of leaf color were strongly correlated to the anthocyanin metabolic processes in different leaf growth stages. Genes with expression patterns associated with leaf color changes were also discussed. Together, physiological and transcriptomic analyses uncovered the regulatory network of metabolism processes involved in the modulation of the ornamentally valuable red-leaf phenotype and provided the potential candidate genes for future molecular breeding of ornamental plants such as Camellia japonica.
Scion and Rootstock Differently Influence Growth, Yield and Quality Characteristics of Cherry Tomato
Authors: Mauro Rosario Paolo , Agnello Michele , Onofri Andrea , Leonardi Cherubino , Giuffrida Francesco
Published: December 2020

Grafting is a valuable tool for managing problems of tomato soil-borne pathogens and pests, but often generates unpredictable effects on crop yield and product quality. To observe these rootstocks-induced changes, experimental designs including many rootstock-scion combinations are required. To this end, a greenhouse experiment was conducted on 63 graft combinations, involving seven cherry tomato scions grouped in large, medium and small-fruited, and eight rootstocks with different genetic backgrounds (crosses between Solanum lycopersicum and S. habrochaites or S. peruvianum or S. pimpinellifolium, plus an intraspecific hybrid), using ungrafted controls. The response of the graft partners was firstly analyzed individually using the environmental variance (σ2E), then by grouping them by classes. When analyzed individually, the scion genotype influenced fruit L*, b*, shape index, total soluble solids (TSS) and its ratio with tritatable acidity (TSS/TA), whereas plant growth and yield were unpredictable. After clustering the graft partners, some of these responses were attributable to the imposed classes. The S. habrochaites-derived hybrids maximized plant biomass, unlike the S. pimpinellifolium ones. Both classes reduced fruit biomass in small- and medium-fruited scions (by 11 and 14%, respectively). The S. habrochaites and S. peruvianum hybrids reduced a* and TSS, whereas promoted TA. L-ascorbic acid was reduced by grafting (from −23 to −45%), in the S. pimpinellifolium group too, indicating, even in low vigor rootstocks, a dilution effect worsening this nutraceutical trait of tomatoes.
Facilitation Effects of Haloxylon salicornicum Shrubs on Associated Understory Annuals, and a Modified “Stress-Gradient” Hypothesis for Droughty Times
Authors: Gomaa Nasr H. , Hegazy Ahmad K. , Latef Arafat Abdel Hamed Abdel
Published: December 2020

Perennial shrub-annual plant interactions play key roles in desert regions influencing the structure and dynamics of plant communities there. In the present study, carried out in northwestern Saudi Arabia, we examined the effect of Haloxylon salicornicum shrubs on their associated understory annual species across four consecutive growing seasons, along with a record of the seasonal rainfall patterns. We measured density and species richness of all the annual species in permanent quadrats located beneath individual shrubs, as well as in the spaces between shrubs. During wet growing season H. salicornicum shrubs significantly enhanced the density and species richness of sub-canopy species, whereas in the relatively dry seasons they exerted negative effects on the associated species. In all growing seasons, the presence of shrubs was associated with enhanced soil properties, including increased organic carbon content, silt + clay, and levels of nutrients (N, P and K). Shrubs improved soil moisture content beneath their canopies in the wet growing season, while in the dry seasons they had negative effects on water availability. Differences in effects of H. salicornicum on understory plants between growing seasons seem due to the temporal changes in the impact of shrubs on water availability. Our results suggest the facilitative effects of shrubs on sub-canopy annuals in arid ecosystems may switch to negative effects with increasing drought stress. We discuss the study in light of recent refinements of the well-known “stress-gradient hypothesis”.
Opportunities for Increased Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Wheat for Forage Use
Authors: Sharma Nirmal , Schneider-Canny Raquel , Chekhovskiy Konstantin , Kwon Soonil , Saha Malay C.
Published: December 2020

Wheat is a major cool-season forage crop in the southern United States. The objective of this study is to understand the effect of nitrogen (N) fertilization on wheat biomass yield, quality, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), and nitrogen nutrition index (NNI). The experiments were conducted in a greenhouse and a hoop house in a split-plot design, with three replications. Twenty wheat cultivars/lines were evaluated at four N rates (0, 75, 150, and 300 mg N.kg−1 soil) in the greenhouse and (0, 50, 100, and 200 mg N.kg−1 soil) in the hoop house. In general, high-NUE lines had lower crude protein content than the low-NUE lines. None of the cultivars/lines reached a plateau for biomass production or crude protein at the highest N rate. The line × N rate interaction for NUE was not significant in the greenhouse (p = 0.854) but was highly significant in the hoop house (p < 0.001). NNI had a negative correlation with NUE and biomass. NUE had strong positive correlations with shoot biomass and total biomass but low to moderate correlations with root biomass. NUE also had a strong positive correlation with N uptake efficiency. Lines with high NUE can be used in breeding programs to enhance NUE in wheat for forage use.
In Vitro Symbiotic Germination: A Revitalized Heuristic Approach for Orchid Species Conservation
Authors: Pujasatria Galih Chersy , Miura Chihiro , Kaminaka Hironori
Published: December 2020

As one of the largest families of flowering plants, Orchidaceae is well-known for its high diversity and complex life cycles. Interestingly, such exquisite plants originate from minute seeds, going through challenges to germinate and establish in nature. Alternatively, orchid utilization as an economically important plant gradually decreases its natural population, therefore, driving the need for conservation. As with any conservation attempts, broad knowledge is required, including the species’ interaction with other organisms. All orchids establish mycorrhizal symbiosis with certain lineages of fungi to germinate naturally. Since the whole in situ study is considerably complex, in vitro symbiotic germination study is a promising alternative. It serves as a tool for extensive studies at morphophysiological and molecular levels. In addition, it provides insights before reintroduction into its natural habitat. Here we reviewed how mycorrhiza contributes to orchid lifecycles, methods to conduct in vitro study, and how it can be utilized for conservation needs.
Paecilomyces and Its Importance in the Biological Control of Agricultural Pests and Diseases
Authors: Moreno-Gavíra Alejandro , Huertas Victoria , Diánez Fernando , Sánchez-Montesinos Brenda , Santos Mila
Published: December 2020

Incorporating beneficial microorganisms in crop production is the most promising strategy for maintaining agricultural productivity and reducing the use of inorganic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. Numerous microorganisms have been described in the literature as biological control agents for pests and diseases, although some have not yet been commercialised due to their lack of viability or efficacy in different crops. Paecilomyces is a cosmopolitan fungus that is mainly known for its nematophagous capacity, but it has also been reported as an insect parasite and biological control agent of several fungi and phytopathogenic bacteria through different mechanisms of action. In addition, species of this genus have recently been described as biostimulants of plant growth and crop yield. This review includes all the information on the genus Paecilomyces as a biological control agent for pests and diseases. Its growth rate and high spore production rate in numerous substrates ensures the production of viable, affordable, and efficient commercial formulations for agricultural use.
Identification of Cis-Regulatory Sequences Controlling Pollen-Specific Expression of Hydroxyproline-Rich Glycoprotein Genes in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Yichao , Mullin Maxwell , Zhang Yingnan , Drews Frank , Welch Lonnie R. , Showalter Allan M.
Published: December 2020

Hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins (HRGPs) are a superfamily of plant cell wall structural proteins that function in various aspects of plant growth and development, including pollen tube growth. We have previously characterized protein sequence signatures for three family members in the HRGP superfamily: the hyperglycosylated arabinogalactan-proteins (AGPs), the moderately glycosylated extensins (EXTs), and the lightly glycosylated proline-rich proteins (PRPs). However, the mechanism of pollen-specific HRGP gene expression remains unexplored. To this end, we developed an integrative analysis pipeline combining RNA-seq gene expression and promoter sequences to identify cis-regulatory motifs responsible for pollen-specific expression of HRGP genes in Arabidopsis thaliana. Specifically, we mined the public RNA-seq datasets and identified 13 pollen-specific HRGP genes. Ensemble motif discovery identified 15 conserved promoter elements between A.thaliana and A. lyrata. Motif scanning revealed two pollen related transcription factors: GATA12 and brassinosteroid (BR) signaling pathway regulator BZR1. Finally, we performed a regression analysis and demonstrated that the 15 motifs provided a good model of HRGP gene expression in pollen (R = 0.61). In conclusion, we performed the first integrative analysis of cis-regulatory motifs in pollen-specific HRGP genes, revealing important insights into transcriptional regulation in pollen tissue.