bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated with Tooth Loss in Postmenopausal Women: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pan Mei-Yu , Hsieh Tsung-Cheng , Chen Po-Han , Chen Mei-Yen
Published: October 2019

Many studies have indicated that menopause affects periodontal health and tooth loss. The possible mechanism might due to several hormonal changes and low bone mineral density (BMD) during the transition period. However, few studies have explored the role of oral hygiene in the number of remaining teeth (NRT) in postmenopausal women (PMW). The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of and factors associated with NRT less than 20 in PMW. A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in coastal Yunlin County, Taiwan. NRT was calculated based on natural and filled teeth. BMD was detected by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at the collaborating hospital. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the factors associated with NRT in rural PMW. Six hundred and ten rural PMW with mean age 65.4 years enrolled in this study. The mean NRT was 17.6 (standard deviation [SD] = 10.4), with 43.9% having <20 and 13.9% edentulous. More than half (65.9%) reported that they seldom brushed their teeth after meals, 79.2% rarely used dental floss, and 80% did not regularly undergo tooth scaling by a dentist. The majority of women had low BMD, including 48.7% with osteopenia and 20.7% with osteoporosis. After adjusting for potentially confounding variables, NRT <20 was associated with infrequent tooth scaling (odds ratio [OR] = 2.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.70–4.56) and dental floss use (OR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.24–3.26), but not BMD. A high prevalence of NRT <20 was found among rural PMW, but poor oral hygiene rather than low BMD was the major contributing factor. It is an emerging issue for primary healthcare providers and clinicians to initiate oral hygiene promotion programs for these disadvantaged women.
Effect of Vigorous Physical Activity on Executive Control in Middle-School Students
Authors: Phillips David S. , Hannon James C. , Gregory Bradley B. , Burns Ryan D.
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the acute effect of vigorous physical activity on executive control in eighth grade students from the U.S. Participants were eighth grade students (N = 68; 26 girls, 42 boys) recruited from one middle school located in the Mountain West region of the U.S. Two groups of participants were assigned to receive either a vigorous physical activity or a sedentary condition within a counter-balanced cross-over design using a 2-week washout. Both groups were administered Trails Making Tests A (TMT-A) and B (TMT-B) at 20- and 25-min post-treatment, respectively. Mixed design ANOVA tests with repeated measures examined differences between treatments on TMT-A and TMT-B performance and the modifying effect of sex. Students who completed the physical activity condition displayed a faster time to completion on the TMT-B compared to students who completed the sedentary condition (Mean difference = −6.5 s, p = 0.026, d = 0.42). There were no differences between treatment groups on TMT-A and no sex × treatment interactions (p > 0.05). This pilot study suggests that vigorous physical activity may improve executive control in middle-school students and adds to the existent literature that continues to examine the emerging link between physical activity and cognition in school-based settings.
Environmental Exposure to Pesticides and Breast Cancer in a Region of Intensive Agribusiness Activity in Brazil: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Silva Ageo M. C. , Campos Paulo H. N. , Mattos Inês E. , Hajat Shakoor , Lacerda Eliana M. , Ferreira Marcelo J. M.
Published: October 2019

Background: Breast cancer is a serious public health problem and is the second most prevalent cancer type in the world. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the association between pesticide use and breast cancer in a region of intense agribusiness activity in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Methods: A case-control study was conducted on women living in the city of Rondonópolis, in the south of Mato Grosso state. There were 85 cases of women with confirmed breast cancer and 266 controls who were randomly selected from primary health care users. Bivariate and stratified analyses were performed. Multiple logistic regression was then performed, keeping in the final model the factors with a significance level lower than or equal to 0.05 or considered important according to apriori biological criteria. Results: In the final model, living near cropland with pesticides (OR: 2.37; CI: 95% 1.78–3.16) and women aged over 50 years who experienced early menarche (OR: 2.08; CI: 95% 1.06–4.12) had a higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to control subjects. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of exposure to pesticides as an environmental risk factor for the development of breast cancer among women.
Lived Experiences of Suicide Risk and Resilience among Alaska Native and American Indian People
Authors: Shaw Jennifer L. , Beans Julie A. , Comtois Katherine Anne , Hiratsuka Vanessa Y.
Published: October 2019

This study explored the lived experiences of suicidality and help-seeking for suicide prevention among Alaska Native and American Indian (AN/AI) people in a tribal health system. An interpretive phenomenological approach was used to analyze semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 15 individuals (ages 15–56) with self-reported histories of suicide ideation and/or attempt. Several factors were found to be central to acquiring resilience to suicide risk among AN/AI people across a wide age range: meaningful and consistent social connection, awareness about how one’s suicide would negatively effect loved ones, and knowledge and utilization of available health services. Findings highlight the mutable nature of suicide risk and resilience, as well as the importance of interpersonal factors in suicidality.
Effects of Reablement on the Independence of Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Mild Disability: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hattori Shinji , Yoshida Toshiyuki , Okumura Yasuyuki , Kondo Katsunori
Published: October 2019

We aimed to assess the efficacy of a reablement program in improving the independence from long-term care services of older adults with mild disability. This parallel, two-arm, randomized controlled, superiority trial was conducted in Neyagawa, a local government area in Osaka, Japan. Eligible participants were community-dwelling individuals aged ≥65 years certified as support-required level. They were assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either a community-based, multicomponent, multidisciplinary, individualized goal-directed, and time-limited intervention (the CoMMIT program) plus standard care or standard care alone. The primary outcome was independence, that is, the nonuse of long-term care services during the three-month follow-up period. The study was terminated early due to slow enrollment. A total of 375 participants were enrolled and randomized to either the intervention (n = 190) or control (n = 185) group. The proportions of independence were 11.1% and 3.8% in the intervention and control groups, respectively (absolute difference: 7.3; 95% confidence interval: 2.0–12.5). There was no difference in the risk of serious adverse events between the groups. The CoMMIT program plus standard care was found superior to standard care alone in enhancing the independence from long-term care services of older adults with mild disability.
Copper Analysis by Two Different Procedures of Sequential Extraction after Electrodialytic Remediation of Mine Tailings
Authors: Lazo Andrea , Lazo Pamela , Urtubia Alejandra , Lobos María Gabriela , Gutiérrez Claudia , Hansen Henrik K.
Published: October 2019

The analysis of Cu distribution in pre-treated mine tailings after electrodialytic remediation was carried out by using two methods of sequential extraction. The initial content of copper in the tailings was 1109 mg Cu/kg of dry tailing, where close to 40% of the sample in weight corresponded to a soluble fraction. The tailing was treated with a leaching solution for 24 h. Three different solutions were tested: H2SO4 + HNO3 with pH = 1.9; H2SO4 + HNO3 with pH = 4.2; and NH4Cl 0.8 mol/L with pH = 5.5. After that, electrodialytic remediation experiments were carried out using an electric field of 2.7 V/cm for 15 days. The best performance for the complete cell was obtained with H2SO4 + HNO3 solutions, with a copper removal efficiency in the range of 62% to 67% and a current efficiency between 6% and 9%. The results of the remaining copper concentration between anode and cathode, from both procedures of sequential extraction, showed similar trends. The differences were mainly attributed to the use of different extractant solutions and extraction times. Soluble and exchangeable fractions were easily removed, with efficiencies higher than 80%. The lowest copper removal efficiency was obtained with NH4Cl 0.8 mol/L.
The Effects of Different Space Forms in Residential Areas on Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Severe Cold Regions of China
Authors: Liu Zheming , Jin Yumeng , Jin Hong
Published: October 2019

In the context of global climate change and accelerated urbanization, the deterioration of the urban living environment has had a serious negative impact on the life of residents. However, studies on the effects of forms and configurations of outdoor spaces in residential areas on the outdoor thermal environment based on the particularity of climate in severe cold regions are very limited. Through field measurements of the thermal environment at the pedestrian level in the outdoor space of residential areas in three seasons (summer, the transition season and winter) in Harbin, China, this study explored the effects of forms and configurations of three typical outdoor spaces (the linear block, the enclosed block, and the square) on the thermal environment and thermal comfort using the Physiologically Equivalent Temperature (PET). The results show that the thermal environment of all outdoor space forms was relatively comfortable in the transition season but was uncomfortable in summer and winter. The full-enclosed block with a lower sky view factor (SVF) had a higher thermal comfort condition in summer and winter. The linear block with higher buildings and wider south–north spacing had a higher thermal comfort condition in summer and winter. When the buildings on the south side were lower and the south–north spacing was wider, the thermal environment of the square was more comfortable in winter.
Assessment of Socio-Demographic Factors, Mother and Child Health Status, Water, Sanitation, and Hygienic Conditions Existing in a Hilly Rural Village of Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Pratibha , Bak JeongEun , Lee Kang-Sung , Chon Yun , Bhattachan Anuj , Rimal Pradip , Shrestha Biswo Ram , Bhandari Binayak , Moon Jeong-Ook , Wu Namkyu , Chu Won-Shik , Song Chul-Ki , Lee Caroline S. , Mogasale Vittal , Ahn Sung-Hoon
Published: October 2019

In many low income developing countries, socioeconomic, environmental and demographic factors have been linked to around half of the disease related deaths that occur each year. The aim of this study is to investigate the sociodemographic factors, mother and child health status, water, sanitation, and hygienic conditions of a Nepalese community residing in a hilly rural village, and to identify factors associated with mother and child health status and the occurrence of diarrheal and febrile disease. A community-based cross-sectional survey was carried out and 315 households from the village of Narjamandap were included in this study. Factors associated with diarrhea, febrile disease, and full maternal and under-five immunizations were assessed using logistic regression. Results showed that higher education level (middle school versus primary education; Odds Ratio (OR): 0.55, p = 0.04; high school versus primary education; OR 0.21, p = 0.001) and having a toilet facility at home were significantly associated with a lower risk of developing diarrhea and febrile disease (OR 0.49, p = 0.01), while, interestingly, the use of improved water supply was associated with higher risk (OR 3.07, p = 0.005). In terms of maternal immunization, the odds of receiving a tetanus toxoid vaccination were higher in women who had regular antenatal checkups (OR 12.9, p < 0.001), and in those who developed complications during pregnancy (OR 4.54, p = 0.04); for under-five immunization, the odds of receiving full vaccination were higher among children from households that reported diarrhea (OR 2.76, p < 0.001). The findings of this study indicated that gaps still exist in the mother and child healthcare being provided, in terms of receiving antenatal checkups and basic immunizations, as evidenced by irregular antenatal checkups, incomplete and zero vaccination cases, and higher under-five deaths. Specific public health interventions to promote maternal health and the health of under-five children are suggested.
Clostridium perfringens Foodborne Outbreak during an Athletic Event in Northern Greece, June 2019
Authors: Mellou Kassiani , Kyritsi Maria , Chrysostomou Anthi , Sideroglou Theologia , Georgakopoulou Theano , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: October 2019

Background: Food safety is a major public health consideration during athletic events. On 27 June 2019, the Hellenic National Public Health Organization was notified of a cluster of gastroenteritis cases among athletes of four of the 47 teams participating at the Panhellenic Handball Championship for children. Methods: A retrospective cohort study among the members of the four teams was performed. The local public health authority visited the restaurants where common meals took place, amassed information on the preparation of meals, and collected samples of leftovers. Stool samples were tested for Salmonella spp. and Shigella spp. Results: Consumption of minced beef had a statistically significant association with disease occurrence [RR:8.29 (95%CI 1,31-52,7)]. Samples of meat were found positive for Clostridium perfringens. It was documented that the meat was not stored and re-heated as indicated. Stool samples were negative for Salmonella spp. and Shigella spp. and were not tested for the Clostridium perfringens toxin. Conclusion: Specific standards should be kept to prevent outbreaks during athletic events. This was the first time that a foodborne outbreak due to Clostridium perfringens was investigated in the country. Laboratory investigation for toxins should be enhanced, especially in foodborne outbreaks where clinical manifestations of cases are found to be compatible with infection caused by a toxin.
Analysis of Urban Drivable and Walkable Street Networks of the ASEAN Smart Cities Network
Authors: Zhao Pengjun , Yen Yat , Bailey Earl , Sohail Muhammad
Published: October 2019

Making transport systems sustainable is a topic that has attracted the attention of many researchers and urban planners. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Smart Cities Network (ASCN) was initiated to develop a sustainable transport system in the ASEAN countries. A comprehensive understanding of street networks (SNs) can contribute significantly to the achievement of this initiative. Therefore, this paper measured and compared characteristics of drivable street networks (DSNs) and walkable street networks (WSNs) of the 26 ASCN pilot cities by applying multiple network metrics. The OSMnx tool was used to download and analyse WSNs and DSNs from the OpenStreetMap. The findings present the topological and geometric characteristics of WSNs and DSNs that are diverse and characterized by different factors. The cities with orthogonal street grids, high street density, intersection density, and fewer cul-de-sacs have good accessibility to reach destinations. In contrast, some other cities have more curvilinear and circuitous SNs with many missing links to other streets, which in turn are prone to traffic disruption. The study highlights the important features of SNs that have significant implications for future designs of SNs in the ASCN whose goal is to make cities smart and liveable for ASEAN members.
Multiplexed Competitive Screening of One-Bead-One-Component Combinatorial Libraries Using a ClonePix 2 Colony Sorter
Authors: Lavoie R. Ashton , di Fazio Alice , Carbonell Ruben G. , Menegatti Stefano
Published: October 2019

Screening solid-phase combinatorial libraries of bioactive compounds against fluorescently labeled target biomolecules is an established technology in ligand and drug discovery. Rarely, however, do screening methods include comprehensive strategies—beyond mere library blocking and competitive screening—to ensure binding selectivity of selected leads. This work presents a method for multiplexed solid-phase peptide library screening using a ClonePix 2 Colony Picker that integrates (i) orthogonal fluorescent labeling for positive selection against a target protein and negative selection against competitor species with (ii) semi-quantitative tracking of target vs. competitor binding for every library bead. The ClonePix 2 technology enables global at-a-glance evaluation and customization of the parameters for bead selection to ensure high affinity and selectivity of the isolated leads. A case study is presented by screening a peptide library against green-labeled human immunoglobulin G (IgG) and red-labeled host cell proteins (HCPs) using ClonePix 2 to select HCP-binding ligands for flow-through chromatography applications. Using this approach, 79 peptide ligand candidates (6.6% of the total number of ligands screened) were identified as potential HCP-selective ligands, enabling a potential rate of >3,000 library beads screened per hour.
Integrated Analysis of Small RNA, Transcriptome and Degradome Sequencing Provides New Insights into Floral Development and Abscission in Yellow Lupine (Lupinus luteus L.)
Authors: Glazińska Paulina , Kulasek Milena , Glinkowski Wojciech , Wojciechowski Waldemar , Kosiński Jan
Published: October 2019

The floral development in an important legume crop yellow lupine (Lupinus luteus L., Taper cv.) is often affected by the abscission of flowers leading to significant economic losses. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), which have a proven effect on almost all developmental processes in other plants, might be of key players in a complex net of molecular interactions regulating flower development and abscission. This study represents the first comprehensive sncRNA identification and analysis of small RNA, transcriptome and degradome sequencing data in lupine flowers to elucidate their role in the regulation of lupine generative development. As shedding in lupine primarily concerns flowers formed at the upper part of the inflorescence, we analyzed samples from extreme parts of raceme separately and conducted an additional analysis of pedicels from abscising and non-abscising flowers where abscission zone forms. A total of 394 known and 28 novel miRNAs and 316 phased siRNAs were identified. In flowers at different stages of development 59 miRNAs displayed differential expression (DE) and 46 DE miRNAs were found while comparing the upper and lower flowers. Identified tasiR-ARFs were DE in developing flowers and were strongly expressed in flower pedicels. The DEmiR-targeted genes were preferentially enriched in the functional categories related to carbohydrate metabolism and plant hormone transduction pathways. This study not only contributes to the current understanding of how lupine flowers develop or undergo abscission but also holds potential for research aimed at crop improvement.
Multifunctional Coatings for Robotic Implanted Device
Authors: Cristallini Caterina , Danti Serena , Azimi Bahareh , Tempesti Veronika , Ricci Claudio , Ventrelli Letizia , Cinelli Patrizia , Barbani Niccoletta , Lazzeri Andrea
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was the preparation and physico-chemical, mechanical, biological, and functional characterization of a multifunctional coating for an innovative, fully implantable device. The multifunctional coating was designed to have three fundamental properties: adhesion to device, close mechanical resemblance to human soft tissues, and control of the inflammatory response and tissue repair process. This aim was fulfilled by preparing a multilayered coating based on three components: a hydrophilic primer to allow device adhesion, a poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel layer to provide good mechanical compliance with the human tissue, and a layer of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) fibers. The use of biopolymer fibers offered the potential for a long-term interface able to modulate the release of an anti-inflammatory drug (dexamethasone), thus contrasting acute and chronic inflammation response following device implantation. Two copolymers, poly(vinyl acetate-acrylic acid) and poly(vinyl alcohol-acrylic acid), were synthetized and characterized using thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR chemical imaging), in vitro cell viability, and an adhesion test. The resulting hydrogels were biocompatible, biostable, mechanically compatible with soft tissues, and able to incorporate and release the drug. Finally, the multifunctional coating showed a good adhesion to titanium substrate, no in vitro cytotoxicity, and a prolonged and controlled drug release.
miR-7 Knockdown by Peptide Nucleic Acids in the Ascidian Ciona intestinalis
Authors: Mercurio Silvia , Cauteruccio Silvia , Manenti Raoul , Candiani Simona , Scarì Giorgio , Licandro Emanuela , Pennati Roberta
Published: October 2019

Peptide Nucleic Acids (PNAs) are synthetic mimics of natural oligonucleotides, which bind complementary DNA/RNA strands with high sequence specificity. They display numerous advantages, but in vivo applications are still rare. One of the main drawbacks of PNAs application is the poor cellular uptake that could be overcome by using experimental models, in which microinjection techniques allow direct delivery of molecules into eggs. Thus, in this communication, we investigated PNAs efficiency in miR-7 downregulation and compared its effects with those obtained with the commercially available antisense molecule, Antagomir (Dharmacon) in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis. Ascidians are marine invertebrates closely related to vertebrates, in which PNA techniques have not been applied yet. Our results suggested that anti-miR-7 PNAs were able to reach their specific targets in the developing ascidian embryos with high efficiency, as the same effects were obtained with both PNA and Antagomir. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first evidence that unmodified PNAs can be applied in in vivo knockdown strategies when directly injected into eggs.
Exposure to High-Intensity Light Systemically Induces Micro-Transcriptomic Changes in Arabidopsis thaliana Roots
Authors: Anna Barczak-Brzyżek , Grzegorz Brzyżek , Marek Koter , Piotr Gawroński , Marcin Filipecki
Published: October 2019

In full sunlight, plants often experience a light intensity exceeding their photosynthetic capacity and causing the activation of a set of photoprotective mechanisms. Numerous reports have explained, on the molecular level, how plants cope with light stress locally in photosynthesizing leaves; however, the response of below-ground organs to above-ground perceived light stress is still largely unknown. Since small RNAs are potent integrators of multiple processes including stress responses, here, we focus on changes in the expression of root miRNAs upon high-intensity-light (HL) stress. To achieve this, we used Arabidopsis thaliana plants growing in hydroponic conditions. The expression of several genes that are known as markers of redox changes was examined over time, with the results showing that typical HL stress signals spread to the below-ground organs. Additionally, micro-transcriptomic analysis of systemically stressed roots revealed a relatively limited reaction, with only 17 up-regulated and five down-regulated miRNAs. The differential expression of candidates was confirmed by RT-qPCR. Interestingly, the detected differences in miRNA abundance disappeared when the roots were separated from the shoots before HL treatment. Thus, our results show that the light stress signal is induced in rosettes and travels through the plant to affect root miRNA levels. Although the mechanism of this regulation is unknown, the engagement of miRNA may create a regulatory platform orchestrating adaptive responses to various simultaneous stresses. Consequently, further research on systemically HL-regulated miRNAs and their respective targets has the potential to identify attractive sequences for engineering stress tolerance in plants.
Comparison of Theiler’s Murine Encephalomyelitis Virus Induced Spinal Cord and Peripheral Nerve Lesions Following Intracerebral and Intraspinal Infection
Authors: Jin Wen , Leitzen Eva , Goebbels Sandra , Nave Klaus-Armin , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Hansmann Florian
Published: October 2019

Hallmarks of Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV)-induced demyelinating disease (TMEV-IDD) include spinal cord (SC) inflammation, demyelination and axonal damage occurring approximately 5–8 weeks after classical intracerebral (i.c.) infection. The aim of this study was to elucidate the consequences of intraspinal (i.s.) TMEV infection and a direct comparison of classical i.c. and intraspinal infection. Swiss Jim Lambert (SJL)-mice were i.s. infected with the BeAn strain of TMEV. Clinical investigations including a scoring system and rotarod analysis were performed on a regular basis. Necropsies were performed at 3, 7, 14, 28 and 63 days post infection (dpi) following i.s. and at 4, 7, 14, 28, 56, 98, 147 and 196 dpi following i.c. infection. Serial sections of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded SC and peripheral nerves (PN) were investigated using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and immunohistochemistry. I.s. infected mice developed clinical signs and a deterioration of motor coordination approximately 12 weeks earlier than i.c. infected animals. SC inflammation, demyelination and axonal damage occurred approximately 6 weeks earlier in i.s. infected animals. Interestingly, i.s. infected mice developed PN lesions, characterized by vacuolation, inflammation, demyelination and axonal damage, which was not seen following i.c. infection. The i.s. infection model offers the advantage of a significantly earlier onset of clinical signs, inflammatory and demyelinating SC lesions and additionally enables the investigation of virus-mediated PN lesions.
MicroRNA and Oxidative Stress Interplay in the Context of Breast Cancer Pathogenesis
Authors: Cosentino Giulia , Plantamura Ilaria , Cataldo Alessandra , Iorio Marilena V.
Published: October 2019

Oxidative stress is a pathological condition determined by a disturbance in reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis. Depending on the entity of the perturbation, normal cells can either restore equilibrium or activate pathways of cell death. On the contrary, cancer cells exploit this phenomenon to sustain a proliferative and aggressive phenotype. In fact, ROS overproduction or their reduced disposal influence all hallmarks of cancer, from genome instability to cell metabolism, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. A persistent state of oxidative stress can even initiate tumorigenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non coding RNAs with regulatory functions, which expression has been extensively proven to be dysregulated in cancer. Intuitively, miRNA transcription and biogenesis are affected by the oxidative status of the cell and, in some instances, they participate in defining it. Indeed, it is widely reported the role of miRNAs in regulating numerous factors involved in the ROS signaling pathways. Given that miRNA function and modulation relies on cell type or tumor, in order to delineate a clearer and more exhaustive picture, in this review we present a comprehensive overview of the literature concerning how miRNAs and ROS signaling interplay affects breast cancer progression.
Overexpression of OsPIN2 Regulates Root Growth and Formation in Response to Phosphate Deficiency in Rice
Authors: Sun Huwei , Guo Xiaoli , Xu Fugui , Wu Daxia , Zhang Xuhong , Lou Manman , Luo Feifei , Xu Guohua , Zhang Yali
Published: October 2019

The response of root architecture to phosphate (P) deficiency is critical in plant growth and development. Auxin is a key regulator of plant root growth in response to P deficiency, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. In this study, phenotypic and genetic analyses were undertaken to explore the role of OsPIN2, an auxin efflux transporter, in regulating the growth and development of rice roots under normal nutrition condition (control) and low-phosphate condition (LP). Higher expression of OsPIN2 was observed in rice plants under LP compared to the control. Meanwhile, the auxin levels of roots were increased under LP relative to control condition in wild-type (WT) plants. Compared to WT plants, two overexpression (OE) lines had higher auxin levels in the roots under control and LP. LP led to increased seminal roots (SRs) length and the root hairs (RHs) density, but decreased lateral roots (LRs) density in WT plants. However, overexpression of OsPIN2 caused a loss of sensitivity in the root response to P deficiency. The OE lines had a shorter SR length, lower LR density, and greater RH density than WT plants under control. However, the LR and RH densities in the OE lines were similar to those in WT plants under LP. Compared to WT plants, overexpression of OsPIN2 had a shorter root length through decreased root cell elongation under control and LP. Surprisingly, overexpression of OsPIN2 might increase auxin distribution in epidermis of root, resulting in greater RH formation but less LR development in OE plants than in WT plants in the control condition but levels similar of these under LP. These results suggest that higher OsPIN2 expression regulates rice root growth and development maybe by changing auxin distribution in roots under LP condition.
A Cellularized Biphasic Implant Based on a Bioactive Silk Fibroin Promotes Integration and Tissue Organization during Osteochondral Defect Repair in a Porcine Model
Authors: Pérez-Silos Vanessa , Moncada-Saucedo Nidia K. , Peña-Martínez Víctor , Lara-Arias Jorge , Marino-Martínez Iván A. , Camacho Alberto , Romero-Díaz Víktor J. , Lara Banda María , García-Ruiz Alejandro , Soto-Dominguez Adolfo , Rodriguez-Rocha Humberto , López-Serna Norberto , Tuan Rocky S. , Lin Hang , Fuentes-Mera Lizeth
Published: October 2019

In cartilage tissue engineering, biphasic scaffolds (BSs) have been designed not only to influence the recapitulation of the osteochondral architecture but also to take advantage of the healing ability of bone, promoting the implant’s integration with the surrounding tissue and then bone restoration and cartilage regeneration. This study reports the development and characterization of a BS based on the assembly of a cartilage phase constituted by fibroin biofunctionalyzed with a bovine cartilage matrix, cellularized with differentiated autologous pre-chondrocytes and well attached to a bone phase (decellularized bovine bone) to promote cartilage regeneration in a model of joint damage in pigs. BSs were assembled by fibroin crystallization with methanol, and the mechanical features and histological architectures were evaluated. The scaffolds were cellularized and matured for 12 days, then implanted into an osteochondral defect in a porcine model (n = 4). Three treatments were applied per knee: Group I, monophasic cellular scaffold (single chondral phase); group II (BS), cellularized only in the chondral phase; and in order to study the influence of the cellularization of the bone phase, Group III was cellularized in chondral phases and a bone phase, with autologous osteoblasts being included. After 8 weeks of surgery, the integration and regeneration tissues were analyzed via a histology and immunohistochemistry evaluation. The mechanical assessment showed that the acellular BSs reached a Young’s modulus of 805.01 kPa, similar to native cartilage. In vitro biological studies revealed the chondroinductive ability of the BSs, evidenced by an increase in sulfated glycosaminoglycans and type II collagen, both secreted by the chondrocytes cultured on the scaffold during 28 days. No evidence of adverse or inflammatory reactions was observed in the in vivo trial; however, in Group I, the defects were not reconstructed. In Groups II and III, a good integration of the implant with the surrounding tissue was observed. Defects in group II were fulfilled via hyaline cartilage and normal bone. Group III defects showed fibrous repair tissue. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated the efficacy of a biphasic and bioactive scaffold based on silk fibroin and cellularized only in the chondral phase, which entwined chondroinductive features and a biomechanical capability with an appropriate integration with the surrounding tissue, representing a promising alternative for osteochondral tissue-engineering applications.
Caulis Spatholobi Ameliorates Obesity through Activating Brown Adipose Tissue and Modulating the Composition of Gut Microbiota
Authors: Zhang Chuanhai , Liu Junyu , He Xiaoyun , Sheng Yao , Yang Cui , Li Haoyu , Xu Jia , Xu Wentao , Huang Kunlun
Published: October 2019

Obesity is associated with disrupted energy homeostasis and intestinal dysbiosis. Caulis Spatholobi, traditional Chinese medicine for herbal therapy, contains a wide range of bioactive compounds and has a specific pharmacological function. However, its effects on obesity and related metabolic disorder have remained largely unexplored. In this study, we showed that the water extract of Caulis Spatholobi (WECS) has a significant effect in inhibiting body weight gain, decreasing adiposity, maintaining glucose homeostasis, reducing insulin resistance and improving hepatic steatosis in diet-introduced obesity (DIO) mice. Besides, the administration of WECS significantly increased the expression levels of genes involved in the brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation and thermogenesis in DIO mice. Also, the activation of BAT treated with WECS was also confirmed in BAT primary cells. Mechanisms, the improvement of glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance may be related to the upregulated MAPK and AMPK pathways in white adipose tissue (WAT) and BAT. Notably, WECS also improved the obesity-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, which induced an increase of anti-obesity and anti-diabetes related bacteria genus. In conclusion, Caulis Spatholobi can ameliorate obesity through activating brown adipose tissue and modulating the composition of gut microbiota. Our findings provide a novel perspective on Chinese medicine applications and provide a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders.
Determination of Ligand Profiles for Pseudomonas aeruginosa Solute Binding Proteins
Authors: Fernández Matilde , Rico-Jiménez Miriam , Ortega Álvaro , Daddaoua Abdelali , García García Ana Isabel , Martín-Mora David , Mesa Torres Noel , Tajuelo Ana , Matilla Miguel A. , Krell Tino
Published: October 2019

Solute binding proteins (SBPs) form a heterogeneous protein family that is found in all kingdoms of life. In bacteria, the ligand-loaded forms bind to transmembrane transporters providing the substrate. We present here the SBP repertoire of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 that is composed of 98 proteins. Bioinformatic predictions indicate that many of these proteins have a redundant ligand profile such as 27 SBPs for proteinogenic amino acids, 13 proteins for spermidine/putrescine, or 9 proteins for quaternary amines. To assess the precision of these bioinformatic predictions, we have purified 17 SBPs that were subsequently submitted to high-throughput ligand screening approaches followed by isothermal titration calorimetry studies, resulting in the identification of ligands for 15 of them. Experimentation revealed that PA0222 was specific for γ-aminobutyrate (GABA), DppA2 for tripeptides, DppA3 for dipeptides, CysP for thiosulphate, OpuCC for betaine, and AotJ for arginine. Furthermore, RbsB bound D-ribose and D-allose, ModA bound molybdate, tungstate, and chromate, whereas AatJ recognized aspartate and glutamate. The majority of experimentally identified ligands were found to be chemoattractants. Data show that the ligand class recognized by SPBs can be predicted with confidence using bioinformatic methods, but experimental work is necessary to identify the precise ligand profile.
Co-Stimulation of Purinergic P2X4 and Prostanoid EP3 Receptors Triggers Synergistic Degranulation in Murine Mast Cells
Authors: Yoshida Kazuki , Tajima Makoto , Nagano Tomoki , Obayashi Kosuke , Ito Masaaki , Yamamoto Kimiko , Matsuoka Isao
Published: October 2019

Mast cells (MCs) recognize antigens (Ag) via IgE-bound high affinity IgE receptors (FcεRI) and trigger type I allergic reactions. FcεRI-mediated MC activation is regulated by various G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) agonists. We recently reported that ionotropic P2X4 receptor (P2X4R) stimulation enhanced FcεRI-mediated degranulation. Since MCs are involved in Ag-independent hypersensitivity, we investigated whether co-stimulation with ATP and GPCR agonists in the absence of Ag affects MC degranulation. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) induced synergistic degranulation when bone marrow-derived MCs (BMMCs) were co-stimulated with ATP, while pharmacological analyses revealed that the effects of PGE2 and ATP were mediated by EP3 and P2X4R, respectively. Consistently, this response was absent in BMMCs prepared from P2X4R-deficient mice. The effects of ATP and PGE2 were reduced by PI3 kinase inhibitors but were insensitive to tyrosine kinase inhibitors which suppressed the enhanced degranulation induced by Ag and ATP. MC-dependent PGE2-triggered vascular hyperpermeability was abrogated in a P2X4R-deficient mouse ear edema model. Collectively, our results suggest that P2X4R signaling enhances EP3R-mediated MC activation via a different mechanism to that involved in enhancing Ag-induced responses. Moreover, the cooperative effects of the common inflammatory mediators ATP and PGE2 on MCs may be involved in Ag-independent hypersensitivity in vivo.
The Temperature Forecast of Ship Propulsion Devices from Sensor Data
Authors: Li Taoying , Hua Miao , Yin Qian
Published: October 2019

The big data from various sensors installed on-board for monitoring the status of ship devices is very critical for improving the efficiency and safety of ship operations and reducing the cost of operation and maintenance. However, how to utilize these data is a key issue. The temperature change of the ship propulsion devices can often reflect whether the devices are faulty or not. Therefore, this paper aims to forecast the temperature of the ship propulsion devices by data-driven methods, where potential faults can be further identified automatically. The proposed forecasting process is composed of preprocessing, feature selection, and prediction, including an autoregressive distributed lag time series model (ARDL), stepwise regression (SR) model, neural network (NN) model, and deep neural network (DNN) model. Finally, the proposed forecasting process is applied on a naval ship, and the results show that the ARDL model has higher accuracy than the three other models.
Virtual Reality and Its Applications in Education: Survey
Authors: Kamińska Dorota , Sapiński Tomasz , Wiak Sławomir , Tikk Toomas , Haamer Rain , Avots Egils , Helmi Ahmed , Ozcinar Cagri , Anbarjafari Gholamreza
Published: October 2019

In the education process, students face problems with understanding due to the complexity, necessity of abstract thinking and concepts. More and more educational centres around the world have started to introduce powerful new technology-based tools that help meet the needs of the diverse student population. Over the last several years, virtual reality (VR) has moved from being the purview of gaming to professional development. It plays an important role in teaching process, providing an interesting and engaging way of acquiring information. What follows is an overview of the big trend, opportunities and concerns associated with VR in education. We present new opportunities in VR and put together the most interesting, recent virtual reality applications used in education in relation to several education areas such as general, engineering and health-related education. Additionally, this survey contributes by presenting methods for creating scenarios and different approaches for testing and validation. Lastly, we conclude and discuss future directions of VR and its potential to improve the learning experience.
Erratum: Yuan, J. et al. Review of the D2D Trusted Cooperative Mechanism in Mobile Edge Computing. Information 2019, 10, 259
Authors: Yuan Jie , Li Erxia , Kang Chaoqun , Chang Fangyuan , Li Xiaoyong
Published: October 2019

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Cold Tolerance and Population Dynamics of Leptoglossus zonatus (Hemiptera: Coreidae)
Authors: Tollerup Kristen E.
Published: October 2019

In California’s San Joaquin Valley, feeding by the coreid pest, Leptoglossus zonatus, can cause considerable economic loss on almond and pistachio. This research was conducted to improve understanding of how winter temperatures affect mortality of overwintering adult L. zonatus and to develop a better understanding of the role pomegranate plays in the species’ life-history. We exposed 7410 field-collected adult L. zonatus to temperatures between −2 and −10 °C for a period of three, four, or six hours using insect incubators. At six hours of exposure, the, LD50 and LD95 occur at −5.8 and −9.7 °C, respectively. We classified L. zonatus as chill-intolerant. Temperatures cold enough to affect substantial mortality of overwintering L. zonatus rarely occur in the San Joaquin Valley. Whole aggregation destructive sampling from a pomegranate hedgerow in Fresno County was conducted to determine population dynamics. At late summer to early fall, aggregations consisted of >90% immature stages. By early to mid-winter, mean aggregation size decreased, consisting of only three to 12 late-instars and adults. During years one and two of the experiment, L. zonatus produced a generation on pomegranate, mostly between September and mid-November. Overwintering did not occur on pomegranate, rather the majority of adults emigrated to other overwintering locations by mid-winter.
ICSI versus Conventional IVF in Women Aged 40 Years or More and Unexplained Infertility: A Retrospective Evaluation of 685 Cycles with Propensity Score Model
Authors: Gennarelli Gianluca , Carosso Andrea , Canosa Stefano , Filippini Claudia , Cesarano Sara , Scarafia Carlotta , Brunod Nicole , Revelli Alberto , Benedetto Chiara
Published: October 2019

This study compared the cumulative live birth rates following Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) versus conventional in vitro fertilization (cIVF) in women aged 40 years or more and unexplained infertility. A cohort of 685 women undergoing either autologous conventional IVF or ICSI was retrospectively analyzed. The effects of conventional IVF or ICSI procedure on cumulative pregnancy and live birth rates were evaluated in univariate and in multivariable analysis. In order to reduce potential differences between women undergoing either IVF or ICSI and to obtain unbiased estimation of the treatment effect, propensity score was estimated. ICSI was performed in 307 couples (ICSI group), whereas cIVF was performed in 297 couples (cIVF group), resulting in 45 and 43 live deliveries, respectively. No differences were observed in morphological embryo quality, in the number of cleavage stage embryos, in the number of transferred embryos, and in the number of vitrified embryos. As for the clinical outcome, no differences were observed in pregnancy rate, cumulative pregnancy rate, live birth rate, cumulative live birth rate, and abortion rate. The present results suggest that ICSI is not associated with increased likelihood of a live birth for unexplained, non-male factor infertility, in women aged 40 years or more.
The Association of Glucocorticosteroid Treatment with WBC Count in Patients with COPD Exacerbation
Authors: Frenkel Amit , Kachko Eric , Novack Victor , Klein Moti , Brotfain Evgeni , Koyfman Leonid , Maimon Nimrod
Published: October 2019

Systematic glucocorticosteroids (GCS) are used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and can cause leukocytosis. Distinguishing the effect of GCS on leukocyte level from infection-induced leukocytosis is important. We sought to quantify the effect of chronic GCS treatment on leukocytosis level in patients with COPD exacerbation. We reviewed the records of patients with COPD exacerbation and fever hospitalized in a tertiary medical center in 2003–2014. Patients were classified according to the GCS treatment they received: chronic GCS treatment (CST), acute GCS treatment (AST), and no prior GCS treatment (NGCS). We used the eosinophil absolute count as a marker of compliance and efficacy of steroid treatment. The primary outcome was the maximal white blood cell (WBC) count within the first 24 h of admission. Of 834 patients, 161 were categorized as CST, 116 AST, and 557 NGCS. The overall maximal leukocyte count was higher and the eosinophil count lower in the two GCS therapy groups. In patients with COPD exacerbation and fever, acutely treated with GCS, the mean increase in the WBC count was more evident when the eosinophils were undetectable (absolute count of zero). This supports leukocytosis level as a marker of disease course in COPD and fever.
Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients with Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head Following Surgical Treatment of Brain Tumors
Authors: Lim Seung-Jae , Park Chan-Woo , Kim Dong-Uk , Han Kwangjoon , Seo Minkyu , Moon Young-Wan , Lee Jung-Il , Park Youn-Soo
Published: October 2019

Corticosteroids have been widely used in patients with brain tumors to reduce tumor-associated edema and neurological deficits. This study examined the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) following brain tumor surgery. We identified 34 THAs performed in 26 patients with steroid-induced ONFH among 9254 patients undergoing surgical treatment for primary brain tumors. After propensity score matching with demographics, 68 THAs (52 patients) in ONFH unrelated to brain tumors were selected as the control group. At the time of THA, 54% of brain tumor patients had neurological sequelae and 46% had adrenal insufficiency. After THA, patients with brain tumor required longer hospital stay, reported a lower functional score, and showed a higher rate of heterotopic ossification compared to the control group. However, hip pain score improved significantly after THA in the brain tumor group, and did not differ from that of the control group (P-value = 0.168). Major complication rates were similar (2.9% and 1.5% for the brain tumor and control groups, respectively; P-value = 1.000), and implant survivorships were not different at 7 years (100% and 98.1% for the brain tumor and control groups, respectively; P-value = 0.455). Our findings suggest that THA can be safely performed to reduce hip pain in patients with steroid-induced ONFH after surgical treatment of primary brain tumors.