bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Hydrolysis Probe-Based qPCR Assays for Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius for Detection of Adulteration in Ginseng Herbal Products
Authors: Kesanakurti Prasad , Ragupathy Subramanyam , Faller Adam C. , Shanmughanandhan Dhivya , Buongiorno Francesco , Della Noce Isabella , Lu Zhengfei , Zhang Yanjun , Newmaster Steven G.
Published: November 2021

Authentication of Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius products is important to be able to mitigate instances of adulteration and substitution that exist within the international supply chain of ginseng. To address this issue, species-specific hydrolysis probe qPCR assays were developed and validated for both P. ginseng and P. quinquefolius herbal dietary supplements. Performance of the probe-based assays was evaluated using analytical validation criteria, which included evaluation of: (1) specificity, in selectively identifying the target species; (2) sensitivity, in detecting the lowest amount of the target material; and (3) repeatability and reproducibility of the method in detecting the target species in raw materials on a real-time PCR platform (reliability). The species-specific probes were developed and successfully passed the validation criteria with 100% specificity, 80–120% efficiency and 100% reliability. The methods developed in this study are fit for purpose, rapid, and easy to implement in quality assurance programs; authentication of ginseng herbal supplements is possible, even with extracts where DNA is fragmented and of low quality and quantity.
Finite-Approximate Controllability of Riemann–Liouville Fractional Evolution Systems via Resolvent-Like Operators
Authors: Mahmudov Nazim I.
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a variational method for studying approximate controllability and infinite-dimensional exact controllability (finite-approximate controllability) for Riemann–Liouville fractional linear/semilinear evolution equations in Hilbert spaces. A useful criterion for finite-approximate controllability of Riemann–Liouville fractional linear evolution equations is formulated in terms of resolvent-like operators. We also find that such a control provides finite-dimensional exact controllability in addition to the approximate controllability requirement. Assuming the finite-approximate controllability of the corresponding linearized RL fractional evolution equation, we obtain sufficient conditions for finite-approximate controllability of the semilinear RL fractional evolution equation under natural conditions. The results are a generalization and continuation of recent results on this subject. Applications to fractional heat equations are considered.
Electrospun Fibers Derived from Peptide Coupled Amphiphilic Copolymers for Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Outgrowth
Authors: Qiang Na , Lin Wensheng , Zhou Xingwu , Liu Zhu , Lu Ming , Qiu Si , Tang Shuo , Zhu Jixiang
Published: November 2021

Developing scaffolds with appropriate mechanical/structural features as well as tunable bioactivities are indispensable in the field of tissue engineering. This study focused on one such attempt to electrospin the copolymer of L-lactic acid (L-LA) and functional monomer (3(S)- [(benzyloxycarbony)methyl]-1,4-dioxane-2,5-dione, BMD) with small peptide modifications for the purpose of neural tissue engineering. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs showed fabricated electrospun copolymer as porous and uniform nanofibrous materials with diameter in the range of 800–1000 nm. In addition, the modified scaffolds displayed a lower contact angle than poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) indicating higher hydrophilicity. To further incorporate the bioactive functions, the nanofibers were chemically coupled with small peptide (isoleucine-lysine-valine-alanine-valine, IKVAV). The incorporation of IKVAV onto the electrospun fiber was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and such incorporation did not affect the surface morphology or fiber diameters. To demonstrate the potential of applying the designed scaffolds for nerve regeneration, dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were cultured on the nanofibers to examine the impact on neurite outgrowth of DRGs. The results indicated that the fabricated nanofibrous matrix with small peptide might be a potential candidate for neural tissue engineering.
Simple and Rapid Assembly of TALE Modules Based on the Degeneracy of the Codons and Trimer Repeats
Authors: Cheng Lingyin , Zhou Xiaoqing , Zheng Yuling , Tang Chengcheng , Liu Yu , Zheng Shuwen , Liu Yang , Zhou Jizeng , Li Chuan , Chen Min , Lai Liangxue , Zou Qingjian
Published: November 2021

Transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) have been effectively used for targeted genome editing, transcriptional regulation, epigenetic modification, and locus-specific DNA imaging. However, with the advent of the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/Cas9 system, an easy-to-use tool with the same function as TALEs, TALEs have recently been abandoned because of their complexity, time consumption, and difficult handling in common labs. Here, we described a degenerated codon-based TALE assembly system for simple, rapid, and efficient TALE assembly. TALE trimers with nonrepetitive DNA sequences were amplified by PCR and sequentially assembled via Gibson assembly. Our method is cost-effective, requires only commonly used basic molecular biology reagents, and takes only 2 h from target sequence analysis to completion. This simple, rapid, and lab-friendly TALE assembly method will restore the value of TALEs in DNA targeting.
Paleostress Analysis from Calcite Twins at the Longshan Dome (Central Hunan, South China): Mesozoic Mega-Fold Superimposition in the Reworked Continent
Authors: Zheng Jian , Shan Yehua , Hu Simin
Published: November 2021

It is generally accepted that during the Mesozoic NE−NNE-trending folds overprinted E−W-trending folds to form the Longshan dome in the central South China continent, although the interference map does not tell the relative ages of the fold sets. In an effort to deepen our understanding of the process of reworking the continent, paleostress analysis using calcite twins was carried out in this study to verify or falsify this model. Ten limestone samples were collected from Upper-Paleozoic limestones on the flanks of the dome and were measured using the universal stage for calcite e-twins. E-twins in the samples are divisible into two kinds, thick (≥1 μm) and thin (<1 μm), indicative of relatively higher and lower deformation temperatures, respectively. Stress estimates obtained using the improved version of Shan et al.’s (2019) method were grouped into two layer-parallel shortening (LPS) subsets and three non-LPS subsets. These subsets comprise four tectonic regimes: NWW−SEE compression (LPS1 and non-LPS1), NNE−SSW compression (LPS2 and non-LPS2), NW−SE extension (non-LPS3a) and NNE−SSW extension (non-LPS3b). They were further arranged in a temperature-decreasing order to establish a complex deformation sequence of the study area. In the sequence NE−NNE-trending folds have an older age than E−W-trending folds, something different from the model. The approximately N−S regional compression responsible for the former folds should have a profound effect on the intensely deformed continent, something ignored in earlier work.
Feasibility, Acceptability and Limitations of Speech and Language Telerehabilitation during COVID-19 Lockdown: A Qualitative Research Study on Clinicians’ Perspectives
Authors: Cacciante Luisa , Cieślik Błażej , Rutkowski Sebastian , Rutkowska Anna , Kacperak Katarzyna , Kuligowski Tomasz , Kiper Pawel
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic brought out the need to deliver health care services at a distance in the form of telerehabilitation (TR). This study aimed to analyse the Italian speech and language therapists’ (SLTs) opinions on the feasibility of the TR in the field of speech-language therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic. We developed an anonymous survey to determine the SLTs’ opinions on feasibility of TR during lockdown caused by COVID-19. We analysed the survey’s answers provided by 136 SLTs. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient showed good reliability of the survey. The SLTs working previously with TR showed better judgements regarding this method. The comparison analysis between TR and face-to-face treatment delivery showed statistically significant differences as follows: “importance” (4.35 vs. 3.32, p = 0.001), “feasibility” (3.37 vs. 2.11, p < 0.001), “alternative form” (3.64 vs. 2.58, p = 0.001) and “comparison” (2.24 vs. 1.69, p < 0.001), but not with “familiarity” (p = 0.81). The survey showed that most of the Italian SLTs were not satisfied with TR systems. SLTs who used TR previously had a better opinion on this treatment modality. Experience and familiarity with TR systems were key factors for the use of this new rehabilitation modality.
Comparison of Medical Comorbidity between Patients with Normal-Tension Glaucoma and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Population-Based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Lu Wei-Yang , Luo Ci-Wen , Chen Shyan-Tarng , Kuan Yu-Hsiang , Yang Shun-Fa , Sun Han-Yin
Published: November 2021

The objective was to investigate different comorbidities developed in normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients. This was a case-control study, with 1489 people in the NTG group and 5120 people in the POAG group. Patient data were obtained from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2010 (LHID2010) of Taiwan for the 2008–2013 period. The chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables, such as gender, income and urbanisation level, between NTG and POAG patients, and the two-tailed t test was used to compare continuity between the two groups. We use a multivariate logic regression model to assess the risk of each participant. The results are expressed in terms of odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Patients with NTG had significantly higher proportions of hypotension (adjusted OR, 1.984; 95% CI, 1.128–3.490), sleep disturbances (adjusted OR, 1.323; 95% CI, 1.146–1.528), peptic ulcers (adjusted OR, 1.383; 95% CI, 1.188–1.609) and allergic rhinitis (adjusted OR, 1.484; 95% CI, 1.290–1.707) than those with POAG. Conversely, arterial hypertension (adjusted OR, 0.767; 95% CI, 0.660–0.893), diabetes (adjusted OR, 0.850; 95% CI, 0.728–0.993) and atopic dermatitis (adjusted OR, 0.869; 95% CI, 0.763–0.990) had a lower risk in the NTG group than in the POAG group. We found that comorbidities such a hypotension, sleep disturbances and peptic ulcer and allergic rhinitis are more highly associated to NTG than POAG.
Online Team-Based Learning Teaching Strategy for Developing Caring Competencies in Nursing Students under COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions
Authors: Yeh Tzu-Pei , Chang Shan-Mei , Ho Ya-Fang , Ma Wei-Fen
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted education systems globally, and numerous strategies were used to transform education into online learning. Caring is recognized as a core competency in nursing; this competency is difficult to cultivate and measure. This study aimed to explore the effect of online team-based learning (TBL) on cultivating nursing students’ caring competency. (2) Method: A mix-methods study design with convenience sampling was used for this study. The intervention was online TBL with field observation. Quantitative data were collected by the modified Peer Caring Measurement (PCM) and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data were collected by dialog in social media and analyzed by content analysis. (3) Result: Both the quantitative and qualitative data showed a significant increase in caring competency. A paired t-test of modified PCM showed significant improvement (p < 0.001), and female students had greater learning performances compared with male students in academic and affective dimensions. Three themes emerged, including that online TBL possesses remarkable benefits, students felt in charge of their learning, and changes in the students’ caring competency were revealed. (4) Conclusion: This online TBL strategy works well in teaching and fostering caring in an online environment among nursing students, which is necessary under COVID-19 restrictions.
Effects of Sling-Based Thoracic Active Exercise on Pain and Function and Quality of Life in Female Patients with Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Park Gun-Woo , An Jungae , Kim Sang-Woo , Lee Byoung-Hee
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of sling-based thoracic active exercise on pain, function, and quality of life in female patients with neck pain. A total of 27 female patients with neck pain were divided into the sling-based thoracic active exercise group (n = 14) and the control group (n = 13). The study group performed a sling-based thoracic active exercise with cervical manual therapy for 50 min a day, twice a week for 4 weeks, whereas the control group performed a placebo exercise with cervical manual therapy in the same manner as the study group. Evaluation of the degree of pain before and after treatment was based on the pressure pain threshold and numeric pain rating scale scores. The craniovertebral angle and neck disability index (NDI) were used to evaluate neck function, and quality of life was measured using the Short Form-36. Afterwards, the patients’ pressure pain thresholds were significantly increased, and the numeric pain rating scale score was significantly decreased in both groups (p < 0.05). In terms of function, the craniovertebral angle was significantly increased in both groups (p < 0.05), and neck dysfunction significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The quality of life significantly increased in both groups (p < 0.05). The pressure pain threshold, craniovertebral angle, neck dysfunction index, and quality of life scores (p < 0.05) were significantly different between groups, except the numeric pain scale score. Our results showed that sling-based thoracic active exercise is effective in reducing pain and improving function and quality of life in female patients with neck pain, thus emphasizing the need for thoracic treatment for such patients.
Jazz Colors: Pigment Identification in the Gouaches Used by Henri Matisse
Authors: Martins Ana , Prud’hom Anne Catherine , Duranton Maroussia , Haddad Abed , Daher Celine , Genachte-Le Bail Anne , Tang Tiffany
Published: November 2021

Jazz, the illustrated book by Henri Matisse, is a testament to the vitality of the artist in the last decade of his career. The book consists of twenty illustrations reproduced in 370 copies using a stencil-based printing technique and the same Linel gouaches the artist had used for the original maquettes. This study reports on the comprehensive analysis carried out to identify the pigments in the gouaches used in Jazz by transmitted and reflectance infrared, Raman, SERS, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopies, and describes the lightfastness of these gouaches as evaluated by microfaedometry. This study also highlights the necessity of a multi-analytical approach for comprehensive identification of artist materials and investigates the suitability of portable and non-invasive techniques. The results were consistent across the three copies investigated: a portfolio in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York and two books in the collection of the Musée National d’Art Moderne in Paris. In total, 39 distinct colors were characterized, with the magenta, pinks, and blues being the most fugitive.
Comparative Water Qualities and Blending in the Ogallala and Dockum Aquifers in Texas
Authors: Howell Nathan
Published: November 2021

Within the US Southern High Plains, it is known that the Ogallala Aquifer (OA) has been over pumped since large-scale agriculture began making use of the water in the 1950s. One option to address the decline is to find new water sources. The last 10–15 years have seen an increase in drilling large capacity, deeper wells in the co-located Dockum Aquifer in the Texas Panhandle. This lower aquifer is separated from the OA by low hydraulic conductivity sediment and is thus generally considered independent from the OA. We examined the suitability of the Dockum to supplement OA water by comparing recent water chemistries where the aquifers coexist. We also examined historical information on well yield, well development, and water quality. We found that water quality is equivalent to the Ogallala in some places but in others it is saltier, softer, and more sodic. Use of PCA and hydrochemical facies revealed that even in this small area Dockum water quality is highly variable. We used USGS-PHREEQC to model water blending at ratios of 0–>100% Ogallala. We show that there is irrigation water quality risk no matter the blend, that risks differ according to location, and that the most frequent risks are salinity, sodicity, and nitrate. We conclude that growers can manage these risks if they use blending to choose the risks they feel most apt to mitigate.
Human Toxocariasis in Portugal—An Overview of a Neglected Zoonosis over the Last Decade (2010–2020)
Authors: Alho Ana Margarida , Ferreira Pedro Manuel , Clemente Isabel , Grácio Maria Amélia Afonso , Belo Silvana
Published: November 2021

Toxocariasis is one of the most widespread and important zoonotic parasitic diseases, although neglected. Data regarding human Toxocara infection in Portugal are almost absent. This article gives an overview of the situation of toxocariasis in Portugal over the last decade based on casuistic data. A total of 846 serum samples from individuals suspected of toxocariasis, collected from 2010 to 2020, were analyzed at the Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Sera were tested for IgG antibodies to Toxocara canis excreted–secreted larval antigens by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and counterimmunoelectrophoresis. Positivity was detected in 18.8% (159/846) [CI 95%: 16.3–21.6], with positives detected throughout continental Portugal. Overall, 59.7% of the positives were diagnosed in younger than 20 years (35.2% aged 0–9 years and 24.5% aged 10–19 years). Eosinophilia was the most frequent feature reported (27.7%). Pediatrics (41.5%) and Infectiology (25.8%) were the specialties with the highest number of positives. An average of 77 samples/year were received, recording a maximum positivity in 2012 (41.5%, n = 27/65) and a minimum in 2020 (6.4%, n = 3/47). These numbers may reflect the effectiveness of current preventive measures, highlighting the need to maintain public awareness to control this helminthozoonosis and promote a higher public health standard.
How Human Resources Index, Relational Justice, and Perceived Productivity Change after Reorganization at a Hospital in Sweden That Uses a Structured Support Model for Systematic Work Environment Management
Authors: Arakelian Erebouni , Paulsson Sofia , Molin Fredrik , Svartengren Magnus
Published: November 2021

To facilitate systematic work environment management, which should be a natural part of business development, a structured support model was developed. The Stamina model has previously been used in Swedish municipalities, showing positive results. The aim was to study how the Human Resources Index (HRI), relational justice, short-term recovery and perceived productivity changed in a recently reorganised perioperative setting in a hospital in Sweden that uses a structured support model for systematic work environment management. A longitudinal design that took measurements at four time points was used in a sample of 500 employees in a perioperative hospital department. The results for the overall sample indicated a positive trend in the HRI (Mt1 = 48.5, SDt1 = 22.5; Mt3 = 56.7, SDt1 = 21.2; p < 0.001). Perceived health-related production loss (Mdt1 = 2, IQR = 3; Mdt3 = 0, IQR = 3; p < 0.001) and perceived work environment-related production loss (Mdt1 = 2, IQR = 3; Mdt3 = 0, IQR = 4; p < 0.001) showed major improvements. Short-term recovery showed a minor improvement (Mt1 = 2.61, SDt1 = 1.33; Mt3 = 2.65, SDt3 = 1.22; p = 0.872). In conclusion, the implementation of the Stamina model, of which the HRI constitutes an important part, seems to be a helpful tool to follow-up on work environment processes, and minimise production losses due to health and work environment-related issues.
Relationships between Child Development at School Entry and Adolescent Health—A Participatory Systematic Review
Authors: Black Michelle , Barnes Amy , Strong Mark , Brook Anna , Ray Anna , Holden Ben , Foster Clare , Taylor-Robinson David
Published: November 2021

The relationship between child development and adolescent health, and how this may be modified by socio-economic conditions, is poorly understood. This limits cross-sector interventions to address adolescent health inequality. This review summarises evidence on the associations between child development at school starting age and subsequent health in adolescence and identifies factors affecting associations. We undertook a participatory systematic review, searching electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ASSIA and ERIC) for articles published between November 1990 and November 2020. Observational, intervention and review studies reporting a measure of child development and subsequent health outcomes, specifically weight and mental health, were included. Studies were individually and collectively assessed for quality using a comparative rating system of stronger, weaker, inconsistent or limited evidence. Associations between child development and adolescent health outcomes were assessed and reported by four domains of child development (socio-emotional, cognitive, language and communication, and physical development). A conceptual diagram, produced with stakeholders at the outset of the study, acted as a framework for narrative synthesis of factors that modify or mediate associations. Thirty-four studies were included. Analysis indicated stronger evidence of associations between measures of socio-emotional development and subsequent mental health and weight outcomes; in particular, positive associations between early externalising behaviours and later internalising and externalising, and negative associations between emotional wellbeing and later internalising and unhealthy weight. For all other domains of child development, although associations with subsequent health were positive, the evidence was either weaker, inconsistent or limited. There was limited evidence on factors that altered associations. Positive socio-emotional development at school starting age appears particularly important for subsequent mental health and weight in adolescence. More collaborative research across health and education is needed on other domains of development and on the mechanisms that link development and later health, and on how any relationship is modified by socio-economic context.
Music Therapy and Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review from 2015–2020
Authors: Machado Sotomayor Manuel Joaquín , Arufe-Giráldez Víctor , Ruíz-Rico Gerardo , Navarro-Patón Rubén
Published: November 2021

Parkinson’s disease can be approached from various points of view, one of which is music therapy—a complementary therapy to a pharmacological one. This work aims to compile the scientific evidence published in the last five years (2015–2020) on the effects of music therapy in patients with Parkinson’s disease. A systematic review has been performed using the Web of Science and Scopus databases with the descriptors “music therapy” and “Parkinson’s disease”. A total of 281 eligible articles were identified, which, after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were reduced to 58 papers. The results display a great diversity of evidence, confirming positive effects on various spheres. All mentioned patients with Parkinson’s disease had experienced different music therapy programs. Some studies focused on the motor component, which can be addressed through listening, body rhythm, and rhythmic auditory stimulation. Other studies confirm effects on communication, swallowing, breathing, and the emotional aspect through programs that focus on singing, either individually or in groups, in order to improve the quality of life of people with PD. It was concluded that music therapy programs can achieve improvements in various areas of patients with Parkinson’s.
Emerging Issues in Occupational Health Psychology
Authors: León-Pérez Jose M. , Shoss Mindy K. , Ferreira Aristides I. , Giorgi Gabriele
Published: November 2021

The world of work is changing dramatically due to continuous technological advancements and globalization (the so-called industry 4 [...]
The Usefulness of Evaluating Performance of Activities in Daily Living in the Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Disorders
Authors: De Vriendt Patricia , Cornelis Elise , Cools Wilfried , Gorus Ellen
Published: November 2021

The Assessment of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) is paramount to ensure the accurate early diagnosis of neurocognitive disorders. Unfortunately, the most common ADL tools are limited in their use in a diagnostic process. Hence, we set out to validate a tool to evaluate basic (b-), instrumental (i-), and advanced (a-) ADL called the Brussels Integrated Activities of Daily Living Inventory (BIA). At the geriatric day hospital of the University Hospital Brussels (Belgium) older persons (65+) labelled as Cognitively Healthy Persons (CHP) (n = 47), having a Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) (n = 39), and having Alzheimer’s disease (AD) (n = 44) underwent a diagnostic procedure for neurocognitive disorders. Additionally, the BIA was carried out. An exploration using both (cumulative) logistic regressions and conditional inference trees aimed to select the most informative scales to discriminate between the HCP, persons with MCI and AD. The distinction between CHP and MCI and between MCI and AD was moderately successful with the i-ADLs, in addition to age. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a multidomain assessment in which the i-ADL could serve as non-invasive and non-time-consuming screening, while the BIA might be useful for diagnostics and disease management.
Defining Environmental Health Literacy
Authors: Lindsey Marti , Chen Shaw-Ree , Ben Richmond , Manoogian Melissa , Spradlin Jordan
Published: November 2021

“Environmental Health Literacy” (EHL) is embraced as important for improving public health by preventing disability and disease from our environment. This study aimed to determine knowledge and skill items identified by Environmental Health (EH) professionals as being associated with EHL and to understand how these items rank by importance. Such a coordinated effort to tease out skills and knowledge needed for EHL had not previously been made. We utilized a mixed-methods approach of semi-structured interviews of 24 EH professionals and a quantitative survey with 275 EH professionals across the United States. Interviews identified 37 skill and 69 knowledge items, which were used to create the survey questions. Survey results indicate 32 knowledge items and six skill items considered essential by >50% of respondents where consensus was reached between professional groups (chi square test: p > 0.05). We further identified six knowledge items, which >70% of EH professionals agreed were essential for EHL. The identification of these knowledge and skill items sets the stage for further research that includes exploring agreement with more diverse stakeholders, developing comprehensive measures of EHL and evaluation of methods and materials designed to improve EHL.
Right Ventricular Endocardial Mapping and a Potential Arrhythmogenic Substrate in Cardiac Amyloidosis—Role of ICD
Authors: Liżewska-Springer Aleksandra , Królak Tomasz , Dorniak Karolina , Kempa Maciej , Dąbrowska-Kugacka Alicja , Sławiński Grzegorz , Lewicka Ewa
Published: November 2021

Patients with cardiac amyloidosis (CA) have an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. (SCD). However, the role of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator in the primary prevention of SCD in this group of patients is still controversial. We present a case with CA with recurrent syncope and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. In order to further stratify the risk of SCD, an electrophysiological study with endocardial electroanatomic voltage mapping was performed prior to the ICD placement.
Optimisation of Garbage Bin Layout in Rural Infrastructure for Promoting the Renovation of Rural Human Settlements: Case Study of Yuding Village in China
Authors: Shen Yue , Wang Cheng
Published: November 2021

Optimising the layout of garbage bins is a requirement for improving the utilisation efficiency of rural infrastructure and continuously promoting the renovation of rural human settlements in China. This study selects Yuding Village in Chongqing, China, as the study area. The present distribution of garbage bins and the existing problems are analysed on the basis of interview materials and the point on interest data of garbage bins obtained from an on-the-spot investigation. Actor network theory (ANT) is suitable for small-scale micro research, and thus, this study uses ANT to construct a research framework for garbage bin layout optimisation. Then, it designs an optimisation path for the layout of garbage bins in Yuding Village by identifying different actors and their common interests, classifying the transformation of roles amongst various actors and building a stable heterogeneous network that can be used as a guide for determining the optimal spatial layout of garbage bins. This study combines a sociological theory with geospatial phenomena, providing a new idea for studying the optimal layout of infrastructure.
The Impacts of Coordinated-Bilateral Ball Skills Intervention on Attention and Concentration, and Cardiorespiratory Fitness among Fourth-Grade Students
Authors: Chen Weiyun , Wang Xiaozan , Gu Xiangli , Chen Jun
Published: November 2021

Background: Both cognitive function and cardiorespiratory fitness are significant correlates of physical and mental health. The exploration of innovative school-based PA intervention strategies to improve cognitive function and cardiorespiratory fitness is of great interest for researchers and school educators. This study aimed at examining the effectiveness of the coordinated-bilateral ball skills (CBBS) intervention in improving cognitive function and cardiorespiratory fitness among 4th-grade students. Methods: This study used a two-arm, quasi-experimental research design. The students (n = 347) in the intervention group received 16-weeks of CBBS intervention lessons in basketball and soccer. The students (n = 348) in the comparison group received 16-weeks of regular basketball and soccer lessons. All participants were pre- and post-tested with the d2 Test of Attention and the Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) test before and after the 16-week CBBS intervention. The data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics and linear mixed models. Results: The linear mixed models yielded a marginal significant interaction effect of time with the group in their concentration (F(1, 680.130) = 3.272, p = 0.071) and a significant interaction effect of time with the group in their attention span (F(1, 785.108) = 4.836, p = 0.028) while controlling for age and the baseline concentration score. The linear mixed model also revealed a significant main effect of time in focused attention (F(1670.605) = 550.096, p = 0.000), attention accuracy (F(1, 663.124) = 61.542, p = 0.000), and cardiorespiratory fitness (F(1, 680.336) = 28.145, p = 0.000), but no significant interaction effect. Conclusions: The CBBS group demonstrated a significant improvement in concentration performance and attention span over time, compared to the comparison group. Both groups improved their focused attention and attention accuracy as well as cardiorespiratory fitness over time. This study suggests that teaching ball skills in team sports for extended periods is instrumental to developing cognitive functions and cardiorespiratory fitness, though the CBBS lessons resulted in greater improvement in concentration performance and attention span.
Application of the Unified Protocol for a Japanese Patient with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Multiple Comorbidities: A Single-Case Study
Authors: Kato Noriko , Ito Masaya , Matsuoka Yutaka J. , Horikoshi Masaru , Ono Yutaka
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: The efficacy of the Unified Protocol (UP), a transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioral therapy, with trauma-focused exposure has not been sufficiently demonstrated for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with multiple comorbidities. This study examined the effects of UP treatment with trauma-focused exposure on symptoms of PTSD and comorbidities in a client who was hesitant about exposure. (2) Methods: The client, who had comorbid dysthymia, social anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, and bulimia nervosa, participated in the UP for 20 sessions over 6 months. The principal diagnosis and symptoms of the comorbid disorders were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and at the 3-month follow-up. This treatment was conducted as part of a clinical study (UMIN000008322). (3) Results: The client showed improvement in the principal diagnosis and symptoms of the comorbid disorders post-intervention compared with baseline and no longer met the diagnostic criteria for any of the disorders. Considerable symptom improvement was observed with imaginal exposure to trauma memories. (4) Conclusions: The UP was an effective alternative treatment for PTSD and symptoms of comorbidities in this client who was hesitant about exposure to traumatic memories, and that the inclusion of trauma-focused exposure provided sufficient therapeutic effects. Further research is needed to examine the generalizability of our findings.
Mapping Inuinnaqtun: The Role of Digital Technology in the Revival of Traditional Inuit Knowledge Ecosystems
Authors: Griebel Brendan , Keith Darren
Published: November 2021

The term Inuinnaqtun is often used in reference to a dialect of Inuktut spoken by Inuinnait (Copper Inuit) of the Central Canadian Arctic. The broader meaning of Inuinnaqtun, however, is to speak, to create, to practice, to do, to think, to be, like an Inuinnaq (a human being). Inuinnaqtun was once its own robust ecosystem, with Inuinnait physically immersed in a landscape and way of life that nourished a fluent and full language, supported human relationships, and maintained a sophisticated body of cultural knowledge. The Inuinnait journey into the 21st century has challenged the practice of Inuinnaqtun, along with the connectivity of its ecosystem. How can an integrated Inuinnaqtun ecosystem be restored in contemporary Inuinnait society? In this paper, we outline the decade-long development of a digital mapping program to document traditional forms of engagement between Inuinnait people, language and land, and facilitate the continued circulation of knowledge that underlies these relationships. In reviewing its various successes and challenges, we critically question digital technology’s ability to digitally represent Inuinnaqtun ontology, in addition to the role that digital technologies can play in facilitating the local relocation of knowledge, objects and relationships dispersed into global contexts.
Genome-Wide Identification of ARF Gene Family Suggests a Functional Expression Pattern during Fruitlet Abscission in Prunus avium L.
Authors: Hou Qiandong , Qiu Zhilang , Wen Zhuang , Zhang Huimin , Li Zhengchun , Hong Yi , Qiao Guang , Wen Xiaopeng
Published: November 2021

Auxin response factors (ARFs) play a vital role in plant growth and development. In the current study, 16 ARF members have been identified in the sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) genome. These genes are all located in the nucleus. Sequence analysis showed that genes in the same subgroup have similar exon-intron structures. A phylogenetic tree has been divided into five groups. The promoter sequence includes six kinds of plant hormone-related elements, as well as abiotic stress response elements such as low temperature or drought. The expression patterns of PavARF in different tissues, fruitlet abscission, cold and drought treatment were comprehensively analyzed. PavARF10/13 was up-regulated and PavARF4/7/11/12/15 was down-regulated in fruitlet abscising. These genes may be involved in the regulation of fruit drop in sweet cherry fruits. This study comprehensively analyzed the bioinformatics and expression pattern of PavARF, which can lay the foundation for further understanding the PavARF family in plant growth development and fruit abscission.
Bioinformatics Applications to Reveal Molecular Mechanisms of Gene Expression Regulation in Model Organisms
Authors: Orlov Yuriy L. , Tatarinova Tatiana V. , Anashkina Anastasia A.
Published: November 2021

Gene expression regulation at the transcriptome, genome, cell, and tissue levels is a complex phenomenon demanding the development of bioinformatics tools [...]
A Potential New Role for Zinc in Age-Related Macular Degeneration through Regulation of Endothelial Fenestration
Authors: Cunningham Fiona , Cahyadi Sabrina , Lengyel Imre
Published: November 2021

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common blinding disease in the western world that is linked to the loss of fenestration in the choriocapillaris that sustains the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors in the back of the eye. Changes in ocular and systemic zinc concentrations have been associated with AMD; therefore, we hypothesized that these changes might be directly involved in fenestrae formation. To test this hypothesis, an endothelial cell (bEND.5) model for fenestrae formation was treated with different concentrations of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) solution for up to 20 h. Fenestrae were visualized by staining for Plasmalemmal Vesicle Associated Protein-1 (PV-1), the protein that forms the diaphragms of the fenestrated endothelium. Size and distribution were monitored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We found that zinc induced the redistribution of PV-1 into areas called sieve plates containing ~70-nm uniform size and typical morphology fenestrae. As AMD is associated with reduced zinc concentrations in the serum and in ocular tissues, and dietary zinc supplementation is recommended to slow disease progression, we propose here that the elevation of zinc concentration may restore choriocapillaris fenestration resulting in improved nutrient flow and clearance of waste material in the retina.
A Novel Method of Mouse RPE Explant Culture and Effective Introduction of Transgenes Using Adenoviral Transduction for In Vitro Studies in AMD
Authors: Shang Peng , Stepicheva Nadezda A. , Liu Haitao , Chowdhury Olivia , Franks Jonathan , Sun Ming , Hose Stacey , Ghosh Sayan , Yazdankhah Meysam , Strizhakova Anastasia , Stolz Donna Beer , Zigler J. Samuel , Sinha Debasish
Published: November 2021

Degeneration of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is one of the most critical phenotypic changes of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in the elderly. While cultured polarized RPE cells with original properties are valuable in in vitro models to study RPE biology and the consequences of genetic and/or pharmacological manipulations, the procedure to establish mouse primary PRE cell culture or pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE cells is time-consuming and yields a limited number of cells. Thus, establishing a mouse in situ RPE culture system is highly desirable. Here we describe a novel and efficient method for RPE explant culture that allows for obtaining biologically relevant RPE cells in situ. These RPE explants (herein referred to as RPE flatmounts) are viable in culture for at least 7 days, can be efficiently transduced with adenoviral constructs, and/or treated with a variety of drugs/chemicals followed by downstream analysis of the signaling pathways/biological processes of interest, such as assessment of the autophagy flux, inflammatory response, and receptor tyrosine kinases stimulation. This method of RPE explant culture is highly beneficial for pharmacological and mechanistic studies in the field of RPE biology and AMD research.
Photoactivation of Cell-Free Expressed Archaerhodopsin-3 in a Model Cell Membrane
Authors: Khangholi Navid , Finkler Marc , Seemann Ralf , Ott Albrecht , Fleury Jean-Baptiste
Published: November 2021

Transmembrane receptor proteins are located in the plasma membranes of biological cells where they exert important functions. Archaerhodopsin (Arch) proteins belong to a class of transmembrane receptor proteins called photoreceptors that react to light. Although the light sensitivity of proteins has been intensely investigated in recent decades, the electrophysiological properties of pore-forming Archaerhodopsin (Arch), as studied in vitro, have remained largely unknown. Here, we formed unsupported bilayers between two channels of a microfluidic chip which enabled the simultaneous optical and electrical assessment of the bilayer in real time. Using a cell-free expression system, we recombinantly produced a GFP (green fluorescent protein) labelled as a variant of Arch-3. The label enabled us to follow the synthesis of Arch-3 and its incorporation into the bilayer by fluorescence microscopy when excited by blue light. Applying a green laser for excitation, we studied the electrophysiological properties of Arch-3 in the bilayer. The current signal obtained during excitation revealed distinct steps upwards and downwards, which we interpreted as the opening or closing of Arch-3 pores. From these steps, we estimated the pore radius to be 0.3 nm. In the cell-free extract, proteins can be modified simply by changing the DNA. In the future, this will enable us to study the photoelectrical properties of modified transmembrane protein constructs with ease. Our work, thus, represents a first step in studying signaling cascades in conjunction with coupled receptor proteins.
Synergistic Interaction of CPP2 Coupled with Thiazole Derivates Combined with Clotrimazole and Antineoplastic Drugs in Prostate and Colon Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Duarte Diana , Vale Nuno
Published: November 2021

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are small peptide sequences used mainly as cellular delivery agents that are able to efficiently deliver cargo into cells. Some CPPs also demonstrate intrinsic anticancer properties. Previously, our group developed a new family of CPP2-thiazole conjugates that have been shown to effectively reduce the proliferation of different cancer cells. This work aimed to combine these CPP2-thiazole conjugates with paclitaxel (PTX) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in PC-3 prostate and HT-29 colon cancer cells, respectively, to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of these combinations. We also combined these CPP2-thiazole conjugates with clotrimazole (CLZ), an antifungal agent that has been shown to decrease cancer cell proliferation. Cell viability was evaluated using MTT and SRB assays. Drug interaction was quantified using the Chou–Talalay method. We determined that CPP2 did not have significant activity in these cells and demonstrate that N-terminal modification of this peptide enhanced its anticancer activity in both cell lines. Our results also showed an uneven response between cell lines to the proposed combinations. PC-3 cells were more responsive to the combination of CPP2-thiazole conjugates with CLZ than PTX and were more sensitive to these combinations than HT-29 cells. In addition, the interaction of drugs resulted in more synergism in PC-3 cells. These results suggest that N-terminal modification of CPP2 results in the enhanced anticancer activity of the peptide and demonstrates the potential of CPPs as adjuvants in cancer therapy. These results also validate that CLZ has significant anticancer activity both alone and in combination and support the strategy of drug repurposing coupled to drug combination for prostate cancer therapy.
MMP9 Differentially Regulates Proteins Involved in Actin Polymerization and Cell Migration during TGF-β-Induced EMT in the Lens
Authors: Liu Zi Zhen (Ginny) , Taiyab Aftab , West-Mays Judith A.
Published: November 2021

Fibrotic cataracts have been attributed to transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Using mouse knockout (KO) models, our laboratory has identified MMP9 as a crucial protein in the TGF-β-induced EMT process. In this study, we further revealed an absence of alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and filamentous-actin (F-actin) stress fibers in MMP9KO mouse lens epithelial cell explants (LECs). Expression analysis using NanoString revealed no marked differences in αSMA (ACTA2) and beta-actin (β-actin) (ACTB) mRNA between the lenses of TGF-β-overexpressing (TGF-βtg) mice and TGF-βtg mice on a MMP9KO background. We subsequently conducted a protein array that revealed differential regulation of proteins known to be involved in actin polymerization and cell migration in TGF-β-treated MMP9KO mouse LECs when compared to untreated controls. Immunofluorescence analyses using rat LECs and the novel MMP9-specific inhibitor, JNJ0966, revealed similar differential regulation of cortactin, FAK, LIMK1 and MLC2 as observed in the array. Finally, a reduction in the nuclear localization of MRTF-A, a master regulator of cytoskeletal remodeling during EMT, was observed in rat LECs co-treated with JNJ0966 and TGF-β. In conclusion, MMP9 deficiency results in differential regulation of proteins involved in actin polymerization and cell migration, and this in turn prevents TGF-β-induced EMT in the lens.
Bionanofactories for Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: Toward Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Jain Ashvi Sanjay , Pawar Pranita Subhash , Sarkar Aira , Junnuthula Vijayabhaskarreddy , Dyawanapelly Sathish
Published: November 2021

Among the various types of nanoparticles and their strategy for synthesis, the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles has gained much attention in the biomedical, cellular imaging, cosmetics, drug delivery, food, and agrochemical industries due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. The green synthesis strategies incorporate the use of plant extracts, living organisms, or biomolecules as bioreducing and biocapping agents, also known as bionanofactories for the synthesis of nanoparticles. The use of green chemistry is ecofriendly, biocompatible, nontoxic, and cost-effective. We shed light on the recent advances in green synthesis and physicochemical properties of green silver nanoparticles by considering the outcomes from recent studies applying SEM, TEM, AFM, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, and XRD techniques. Furthermore, we cover the antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic activities of silver nanoparticles.
Efficacy of Artificial Tears Based on an Extract of Artemia salina Containing Dinucleotides in a Rabbit Dry Eye Model
Authors: Carpena-Torres Carlos , Pintor Jesus , Huete-Toral Fernando , Martin-Gil Alba , Rodríguez-Pomar Candela , Martínez-Águila Alejandro , Carracedo Gonzalo
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: Artemia salina is a brine shrimp containing high concentrations of dinucleotides, molecules with properties for dry eye treatment. For this reason, the purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of the artificial tears based on an extract of Artemia salina in a rabbit dry eye model. (2) Methods: A prospective and randomized study was carried out. Twenty rabbits were divided into 4 groups (n = 5, each group): healthy rabbits, dry eye rabbits, dry eye rabbits treated with hypromellose (HPMC), and dry eye rabbits treated with Artemia salina. Dry eye was induced by the topical instillation of 0.2% benzalkonium chloride. The measurements were performed before and after the treatment for 5 consecutive days. (3) Results: The topical instillation of artificial tears containing Artemia salina showed beneficial effects on tear secretion, tear break-up time, corneal staining, the density of Goblet cells, heigh of mucin cloud secreted by these cells, and mRNA levels of IL-1β and MMP9 in conjunctival cells. Compared with the HPMC, there was a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) with the Artemia salina in all the variables under study, except for the conjunctival hyperemia, density of Goblet cells, and mRNA levels of IL-6. (4) Conclusions: The potential of artificial tears based on Artemia salina as a secretagogue agent for dry eye treatment was confirmed, opening the door for future clinical trials and studies to extrapolate the findings for dry eye patients.