Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

Τρίτη 2 Απριλίου 2019

Environmental Science

No Sustainable Development in the Lack of Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice, Ahead of Print.
Environmental Justice - Table of Contents
Sat Mar 30, 2019 09:00
Geocide, Ecocide, and Genocidal Type Outcomes from Large-Scale Open Pit Mountaintop Gold Mining in the Outskirts of Paracatu, Brazil
Environmental Justice, Ahead of Print.
Environmental Justice - Table of Contents
Wed Mar 27, 2019 09:00
Energy, Environment, and Equity in South Africa
Environmental Justice, Ahead of Print.
Environmental Justice - Table of Contents
Fri Mar 22, 2019 09:00
Park Access and Equity in a Segregated, Southern U.S. City: A Case Study of Tallahassee, FL
Environmental Justice, Ahead of Print.
Environmental Justice - Table of Contents
Fri Mar 22, 2019 09:00
[ASAP] Impacts of Alternative Fuels on Morphological and Nanostructural Characteristics of Soot Emissions from an Aviation Piston Engine
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b01059
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] New Method for Improving Spatial Allocation Accuracy of Industrial Energy Consumption and Implications for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Emissions in China
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b06915
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Review of Decontamination Techniques for the Inactivation of <italic toggle="yes">Bacillus anthracis</italic> and Other Spore-Forming Bacteria Associated with Building or Outdoor Materials
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b05274
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Undiscovered Mechanism for Pyrogenic Carbonaceous Matter-Mediated Abiotic Transformation of Azo Dyes by Sulfide
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b06692
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Fish and Seabird Gut Conditions Enhance Desorption of Estrogenic Chemicals from Commonly-Ingested Plastic Items
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b07140
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Predicting the Contribution of Chloramines to Contaminant Decay during Ultraviolet/Hydrogen Peroxide Advanced Oxidation Process Treatment for Potable Reuse
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b06894
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Evidence, Determination, and Implications of Membrane-Independent Limiting Flux in Forward Osmosis Systems
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b05925
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Beyond Selenium: Coal Combustion Residuals Lead to Multielement Enrichment in Receiving Lake Food Webs
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b00324
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Outstanding Performance of Recyclable Amorphous MoS<sub>3</sub> Supported on TiO<sub>2</sub> for Capturing High Concentrations of Gaseous Elemental Mercury: Mechanism, Kinetics, and Application
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b00464
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Modeling Spatial and Temporal Variation in Natural Background Specific Conductivity
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b06777
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Induction of Inflammatory Responses in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells by Pb<sup>2+</sup>-Containing Model PM<sub>2.5</sub> Particles via Downregulation of a Novel Long Noncoding RNA <italic toggle="yes">lnc-PCK1-2:1</italic>
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b06916
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Microplastic Ingestion by Gelatinous Zooplankton May Lower Efficiency of the Biological Pump
Environmental Science & TechnologyDOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b07174
Environmental Science & Technology: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Synthesis and Acaricidal- and Insecticidal-Activity Evaluation of Novel Oxazolines Containing Sulfiliminyl Moieties and Their Derivatives
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b00657
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Assessment of Multiorigin Humin Components Evolution and Influencing Factors During Composting
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b07007
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Isolation and Characterization of the Pymetrozine-Degrading Strain <italic toggle="yes">Pseudomonas</italic> sp. BYT-1
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b06155
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Transcriptomic Mechanism of the Phytohormone 6-Benzylaminopurine (6-BAP) Stimulating Lipid and DHA Synthesis in <italic toggle="yes">Aurantiochytrium</italic> sp.
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b07117
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Citrus Flavanones Enhance ß-Carotene Uptake in Vitro Experiment Using Caco-2 Cell: Structure–Activity Relationship and Molecular Mechanisms
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b01376
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Degradation Kinetics and Transformation Products of Levonorgestrel and Quinestrol in Soils
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b04788
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Antidepressant-like Effect of <italic toggle="yes">Citrus sinensis</italic> (L.) Osbeck Essential Oil and Its Main Component Limonene on Mice
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b00650
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Taste Modulating Peptides from Overfermented Cocoa Beans
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b00905
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Characterization of the Flavor Properties of Dark Chocolates Produced by a Novel Technological Approach and Comparison with Traditionally Produced Dark Chocolates
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b06800
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Preventive Efficiency of Green Tea and Its Components on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b05032
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Covalent Interaction between Rice Protein Hydrolysates and Chlorogenic Acid: Improving the Stability of Oil-in-Water Emulsions
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b06898
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Stable Carbon and Nitrogen Isotope Ratios of Red Bell Pepper Samples from Germany, The Netherlands, and Spain
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b01631
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Tetracycline Generated Red Luminescence Based on a Novel Lanthanide Functionalized Layered Double Hydroxide Nanoplatform
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b00164
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Review of Recent DNA-Based Methods for Main Food-Authentication Topics
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b07016
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Development and Validation of a QuEChERS-LC-MS/MS Method for the Analysis of Phenolic Compounds in Rapeseed Oil
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b00029
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Increased Cadmium Excretion Due to Oral Administration of <italic toggle="yes">Lactobacillus plantarum</italic> Strains by Regulating Enterohepatic Circulation in Mice
Journal of Agricultural and Food ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b01004
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Vitamin D and Its Synthetic Analogs
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00208
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Discovery and Mechanistic Study of Tailor-Made Quinoline Derivatives as Topoisomerase 1 Poison with Potent Anticancer Activity
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01938
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Allosteric Protein Disulfide Isomerase Inhibitors
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01951
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Development of a Highly Potent Analogue and a Long-Acting Analogue of Oxytocin for the Treatment of Social Impairment-Like Behaviors
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01691
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Design, Synthesis, and Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Phosphate and Amino Acid Ester Prodrugs for Improving the Oral Bioavailability of the HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor Atazanavir
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00002
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Tue Apr 02, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Fragment Hits: What do They Look Like and How do They Bind?
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01855
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Discovery of Novel Spiroindoline Derivatives as Selective Tankyrase Inhibitors
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01888
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00
[ASAP] Dopamine D<sub>4</sub> Receptor-Selective Compounds Reveal Structure–Activity Relationships that Engender Agonist Efficacy
Journal of Medicinal ChemistryDOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00231
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: Latest Articles (ACS Publications)
Mon Apr 01, 2019 07:00

Microbiology

Effect of organic carbon sources and environmental factors on cell growth and lipid content of Pavlova lutheri

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of organic carbon sources, cultivation methods, and environmental factors on growth and lipid content of Pavlova lutheri for biodiesel production. In the 250-mL flask bioreactors, P. lutheri was cultivated in the modified artificial seawater (ASW) medium containing glucose, glycerol, sodium acetate, or sucrose as an organic carbon substrate. The effects of different growth conditions (phototrophic, mixotrophic, and heterotrophic) and environmental factors such as photoperiod, light intensity, and salinity were evaluated. Growth of P. lutheri was inhibited under heterotrophy but was enhanced in mixotrophy as compared to phototrophy. Biomass and lipid content of P. lutheri were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by changing photoperiod, light intensity, and salinity. Higher biomass concentration and lipid content were observed at a light intensity of 100 ± 2 μmol photons m−2 s−1, 18 h photoperiod, and 30% salinity, in a modified ASW medium supplemented with 10 mmol sucrose. An increase in biomass concentration from 320 ± 25.53 to 1106 ± 18.52 mg L−1 and high lipid content of 31.11 ± 1.65% (w/w) were observed with the optimized culture conditions, demonstrating a significant (p < 0.05) enhancement in biomass and lipid content due to the improved culture conditions. The present study emphasizes the possible use of sucrose for biomass and lipid production with P. lutheri under the optimized culture conditions. Using low-cost and relatively easy accessible feedstock such as sucrose would be a valuable alternative for growing microalgae with enhanced lipid content.



Demonstrating the potential of abiotic stress-tolerant Jeotgalicoccus huakuii NBRI 13E for plant growth promotion and salt stress amelioration

Abstract

The present study aimed to demonstrate the potential of abiotic stress-tolerant Jeotgalicoccus huakuii NBRI 13E for plant growth promotion and salt stress amelioration. NBRI 13E was characterized for abiotic stress tolerance and plant growth-promoting (PGP) attributes under normal and salt stress conditions. Phylogenetic comparison of NBRI 13E was carried out with known species of the same genera based on 16S rRNA gene. Plant growth promotion and rhizosphere colonization studies were determined under greenhouse conditions using maize, tomato, and okra. Field experiment was also performed to assess the ability of NBRI 13E inoculation for improving growth and yield of maize crop in alkaline soil. NBRI 13E demonstrated abiotic stress tolerance and different PGP attributes under in vitro conditions. Phylogenetic and differential physiological analysis revealed considerable differences in NBRI 13E as compared with the reported species for Jeotgalicoccus genus. NBRI 13E colonizes in the rhizosphere of the tested crops, enhances plant growth, and ameliorates salt stress in a greenhouse experiment. Modulation in defense enzymes, chlorophyll, proline, and soluble sugar content in NBRI 13E-inoculated plants leads to mitigate the deleterious effect of salt stress. Furthermore, field evaluation of NBRI 13E inoculation using maize was carried out with recommended 50 and 100% chemical fertilizer controls, which resulted in significant enhancement of all vegetative parameters and total yield as compared to respective controls. Jeotgalicoccus huakuii NBRI 13E is reported for the first time for its ability to develop a bioinoculant formulation for stress amelioration and improved crop productivity.



Characterization and comparisons of microbiota in different intestinal segments between adult Chinese Shanxi Black Pigs and Large White Pigs

Abstract

The carcass weight of Chinese Shanxi Black Pigs is relatively lower in comparison with that of the counterparts, i.e., Large White Pigs, although the former are resistant to harsh conditions. Since gut microflora has been recognized to play a key role in pork production, it is of interest to explore the microbial communities in different intestinal segments of pigs and its potential relatedness with host features. In this study, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, accompanied by the inter- and intra-group comparisons, was implemented to investigate the structure composition and potential functions of microbial communities of four distinct intestinal segments [duodenum (D), jejunum (J), ileum (I), and cecum (C)] between adult Chinese Shanxi Black Pigs and Large White Pigs. Comparative survey revealed that the dominant phylum in both breeds was Firmicutes, followed by Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. At the genus level, Lactobacillus was predominant in all samples, and Prevotella was specifically prevalent in the cecum. Further inspection showed the differences of dominant species in the same segments between these two groups. Notably, unique taxa in C and D segments were more than that in I and J segments. Additionally, each segment was characterized by specifically enriched genera, and distinctive pathways were predicted in certain intestinal segments. In short, the findings presented a coherent picture of structure composition and predicted functionalities of gut microbiota in diverse intestinal segments of adult Chinese Shanxi Black Pigs and Large White Pigs, and extend the understanding of potential link between intestinal microbiota and their hosts.



Increased methane concentration alters soil prokaryotic community structure along an artificial pH gradient

Abstract

Global climate change may have a large impact on increased emission rates of carbon dioxide and methane to total greenhouse gas emissions from terrestrial wetlands. Methane consumption by soil microbiota in alpine wet meadows serves as a biofilter for the methane produced in the waterlogged soil below. Altered pH regimes change microbial community composition and structure by exerting selection pressure on soil microorganisms with different ecological strategies and thus affect greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the metabolic activity of soil microorganisms. However, responses of prokaryotic communities to artificial pH shift under elevated methane concentration remain unclear. In this study, we assessed diversity and relative abundance of soil prokaryotes in an alpine meadow under elevated methane concentration along an artificial pH gradient using laboratory incubation experiments. We established an incubation experiment treated with artificial pH gradient (pH 4.5–8.5). After 3 months of incubation, 300 ml of methane at a concentration of 20,000 ppm was added to stimulate potential methanothrophs in topsoil. Sequencing of 16S rRNA gene indicated increasing of relative abundances of Crenarchaeota, Chloroflexi, Bacteroidetes, and Planctomycetes in soil after addition of methane, while the relative abundances of Actinobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes did not significant change before and after methane treatment. Results of phylogenetic relatedness of soil prokaryotes showed that microbial community is mostly shaped by deterministic factors. Species indicator analysis revealed distinct OTUs among various pH and methane treatments. Network analysis revealed distinct co-occurrence patterns of soil prokaryotic community before and after methane addition, and different correlation patterns among various prokaryotic taxa. Linear regression model revealed significant decrease of methane oxidation along elevated pH gradient. Soil pH constituted a strong environmental filter in species assembly of soil prokaryotic community. Methane oxidation rates decreased significantly with elevated pH. The interactive effects of elevated methane concentration and pH are therefore promising topic for future research.



Chitinolytic actinobacteria isolated from an Algerian semi-arid soil: development of an antifungal chitinase-dependent assay and GH18 chitinase gene identification

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the microbial potential of a semi-arid sandy soil from south-central Algeria in order to isolate new chitinolytic actinobacteria. This soil is subjected to high temperatures (up to 43 °C) and has low nutrient content. Strains were isolated by plating soil suspensions on Bennett and Colloidal Chitin (CCM) medium. An initial clustering of isolates was made through BOX-PCR genetic profiling. Next, a 16S rRNA gene sequencing of representative isolates was realized. We also identified optimum physicochemical conditions for chitinolytic activity. A rapid in vitro assay based on glucose catabolic repression was developed to select isolates having a chitinase-dependent antifungal activity against two phytopathogenic fungi. Gene identification of glycosyl hydrolase family 18 (GH18) permitted us to assess the divergence of chitinase genes. Forty isolates were obtained from the semi-arid sandy soil. The molecular identification permitted us to assign them to Streptomyces or Micromonospora genera with seven possibly new bacterial species. For chitinolytic activity, 100% of isolates were able to grow and degrade colloidal chitin at pH 7 and at a temperature ranging from 30 to 40 °C. We also observed that Micromonospora strains had atypical activity patterns, with a strong chitinase activity maintained at high temperature. Finally, three strains presented an interesting chitinolytic potential to reduce fungal growth with new GH18 sequences. This study presents a new rapid method to detect antifungal chitinase-dependent activity that allowed to identify potentially new species of actinobacteria and new GH18 gene sequences.



Exopolysaccharides produced by Lactobacillus plantarum : technological properties, biological activity, and potential application in the food industry

Abstract

Some lactic acid bacteria are capable of producing capsular or extracellular polysaccharides, with desirable technological properties and biological activities. Such polysaccharides produced by lactic acid bacteria are called exopolysaccharides and can be used to alter rheological properties, acting in processes involving viscosity, emulsification, and flocculation, among others. They may also be involved in prebiotic, probiotic, and biological activities, as well as having potential application in the food industry. In this mini-review, the objectives were to present some beneficial properties of exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Lactobacillus plantarum that have not been commercially explored. For that, the article focused to summarize revision of current publications within the following topics: (1) rheological properties, (2) prebiotic properties, (3) biological activities, and (4) potential application in the food industry. EPS produced by Lb. plantarum can be used as gelling agent, emulsifier, or stabilizer for food products. The glucan nature of the produced EPS enhances probiotic properties of this LAB species. Lactobacillus plantarum EPS has antioxidant, antibiofilm, and antitumor activities. Finally, there is an improvement in texture of fermented food products where Lb. plantarum is used as starter culture which is related to EPS production in situ. Therefore, EPS produced by Lb. plantarum have important and desirable properties to be explored for several applications, including health and food areas.



Probiotic properties of Lactobacillus strains with high cinnamoyl esterase activity isolated from jeot-gal, a high-salt fermented seafood

Abstract

Cinnamoyl esterases (CEs) improve the bioavailability of caffeic acid, a potent antioxidant with beneficial health effects. This study aimed to characterize the probiotic properties of 14 strains of CE-producing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from jeot-gal, a high-salt fermented seafood. We evaluated properties of the probiotic LAB with high CE activity, including tolerance to low pH and bile salts, antimicrobial activity, surface hydrophobicity, adhesion, and immunomodulatory effects, in vitro. All LAB tested tolerated pH 2.0 and 3% Oxgall, i.e., conditions comparable with those in the gastrointestinal environment. Three isolates, Lactobacillus paracasei JBCC10650, Lactobacillus pentosus JBCC10659, and Lactobacillus plantarum JBCC10543, showed stronger adherence to epithelial cells (12.3, 9.6, and 9.4%) than a commercial probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (9.1%; p < 0.05), and exhibited broad antibacterial activity against putative pathogens. Most of the 14 LAB strains were able to regulate mRNA expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in macrophages, indicating their potential immunomodulatory effects. Our findings suggest that the newly isolated CE-producing probiotics may show beneficial health effects by supporting the host immune system.



Inhibition of TOR signalling in lea1 mutant induces apoptosis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Abstract

The target of rapamycin, TOR, maintains cell growth and proliferation under vivid environmental conditions by orchestrating wide array of growth-related process. In addition to environmental conditions, e.g., nutrient and stress, TOR also governs cellular response to varied intracellular cues including perturbed intracellular mRNA levels which may arise due to altered regulation of mRNA processing at splicing or turnover levels. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of TOR signalling in growth of cells with accumulated unprocessed RNA. Growth analysis of lea1∆ (splicing deficient) was carried out under varied conditions leading to nitrogen starvation. The expression of TORC1 and TORC2 marker genes was examined in this delete strain. Sensitivity of the lea1∆ towards oxidative agents was observed. Apoptosis was analyzed in caffeine-treated lea1∆ cells. The hypersensitivity of lea1∆ cells towards caffeine is outcome of highly perturbed TOR signalling. The growth defect is independent of PKC pathway. Cells with accumulated unprocessed RNA experience high oxidative stress that induces apoptosis. An inadequate TOR signalling in lea1∆ cells substantiates the effect of oxidative stress induced by accumulated RNA to the extent of inducing cell death via apoptosis.



Hypocholesterolaemic action of Lactobacillus plantarum VJC38 in rats fed a cholesterol-enriched diet

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate hypocholesterolaemic activity of probiotic strains Lactobacillus plantarum VJC38 and VJI21 in Wistar albino rats fed a cholesterol-enriched diet. The experimental animals were divided into five groups (n = 6) viz., normal diet control group (NDC), hypercholesterolaemic diet (HD) control group (HDC), HD supplemented with 3 × 108 CFU/ml of L. plantarum VJC38 group (HD-C38), HD supplemented with 3 × 108 CFU/ml of L. plantarum VJI21 group (HD-I21), and HD supplemented with 3 × 108 CFU/ml of L. rhamnosus GG group (HD-GG) as positive control. Animals were administered bacterial culture by oral gavage once daily for 45 days. After trial, animals were sacrificed and blood samples were collected. Serum total cholesterol (T-CHO), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, glucose, glutamyl pyruvate transaminase (GPT), and glutamyl oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) levels were determined. Serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were estimated using the Friedewald's equation. Liver and fecal lipid contents and fecal cholic acids were measured. Serum T-CHO levels were significantly decreased by 15.6 and 17.4% in the HD-GG and HD-C38 groups, respectively, but not in the HD-I21 group compared with HDC group (P < 0.05). HD-GG and HD-C38 groups showed 26.3 and 27.2% reduction in serum LDL cholesterol, respectively when compared with HDC group (P < 0.05). Serum LDL cholesterol levels in HD-I21 group were not significantly different from HDC group. Serum TG levels in the HD-GG and HD-C38 were decreased by 14.2 and 22.8%, respectively compared with HDC group (P < 0.05). Liver T-CHO and TG levels in the HD-GG, HD-C38, and HD-I21 were reduced significantly compared with the HDC group (P < 0.05). Atherogenic coefficient values of HD-GG, HD-C38, and HD-21 were significantly decreased compared with HDC group (P < 0.05). Serum GPT levels in the HD-GG, HD-C38, and HD-I21 were decreased by 20.6, 10.9, and 20.6%, respectively, vs. the HDC group. Serum GOT levels were not significantly different among the groups. Serum glucose levels were significantly low in HD-GG, HD-C38, and HD-I21 compared with HDC group (P < 0.05). Fecal cholesterol and cholic acid levels were significantly higher in the HD-C38 and HD-GG groups than other groups (P < 0.05). This study suggests that L. plantarum VJC38 exhibits hypocholesterolaemic effect through hydrolysis of conjugated bile acids in the small intestine and excretion of cholesterol in feces. Lactobacillus plantarum VJC38 could be used as a potential cholesterol-lowering probiotic after validation of the hypocholesterolaemic activity in placebo-controlled human clinical trials.



Macrophomina phaseolina : microbased biorefinery for gold nanoparticle production

Abstract

Biofabrication of nanoparticles via the principles of green nanotechnology is a key issue addressed in nanobiotechnology research. There is a growing need for development of a synthesis method for producing biocompatible stable nanoparticles in order to avoid adverse effects in medical applications. We report the use of simple and rapid biosynthesis method for the preparation of gold nanoparticles using Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid, a soil-borne pathogen. The effect of pH and temperature on the synthesis of gold nanoparticles by M. phaseolina was also assessed. Different techniques like UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and EDX were used to characterize the gold nanoparticles. The movement of these gold nanoparticles inside Escherichia coli (ATCC11103) along with effect on growth and viability was evaluated. The biogenic gold nanoparticle was synthesized at 37 °C temperature and neutral pH. UV-Visible Spectroscopy, TEM, EDX, and DLS measurements confirm the formation of 14 to 16 nm biogenic gold nanoparticles. FTIR substantiates the presence of protein capping on Macrophomina phaseolina-mediated gold nanoparticles. The non-toxicity of gold nanoparticles was confirmed by the growth and viability assay while the TEM images validated the entry of gold nanoparticles without disrupting the structural integrity of E. coli. Biogenic method for the synthesis of nanoparticles using fungi is novel, efficient, without toxic chemicals. These biogenic gold nanoparticles themselves are nontoxic to the microbial cells and offer a better substitute for drug delivery system.



Transgenic Research

Compositional equivalence of event IND-ØØ412-7 to non-transgenic wheat

Abstract

Wheat is the most widely grown cereal grain, occupying a significant portion of the total cultivated land. As drought is the major environmental stressor affecting crop production, yield maintenance under water deficit conditions appears as a highly desirable phenotype for crop improvement. The HaHB4 (Helianthus annuus homeobox 4) gene from sunflower encodes for a transcription factor involved in tolerance to environmental stress. The introduction of HaHB4 in wheat led to the development of event IND-ØØ412-7 (HB4® wheat), which displayed higher yield in production environments of low productivity potential. Compositional analysis of IND-ØØ412-7 wheat, including 41 nutrients and 2 anti-nutrients for grain and 10 nutrients in forage, was performed. Results of these studies indicated that IND-ØØ412-7 is compositionally equivalent to non-transgenic wheat.



Evaluation of lettuce chloroplast and soybean cotyledon as platforms for production of functional bone morphogenetic protein 2

Abstract

The bone morphogenetic protein BMP2 plays a crucial role in the formation and regeneration of bone and cartilage, which is critical for maintaining skeletal integrity and bone fracture repair. Because of its important role in osteogenic properties it has been commercially produced for clinical use. Here we report attempts to express human BMP2 using two plant systems (lettuce chloroplast and soybean seeds). The rhBMP2 gene (coding for the 13 kDa active polypeptide) was introduced in two regions of the lettuce chloroplast genome. Two homoplasmic events were achieved and RT-PCR demonstrated that the BMP2 gene was transcribed. However, it was not possible to detect accumulation of rhBMP2 in leaves. Two soybean events were achieved to express a full-length hBMP2 gene (coding for the 45 kDa pro-BMP2) fused with the α-coixin signal peptide, under control of the β-conglycinin promoter. Pro-BMP2 was expressed in the transgenic seeds at levels of up to 9.28% of the total soluble seed protein as determined by ELISA. It was demonstrated that this recombinant form was biologically active upon administration to C2C12 cell cultures, because it was able to induce an osteogenic cascade, as observed by the enhanced expression of SP7 (osterix) and ALPI (alkaline phosphatase) genes. Collectively, these results corroborated our previous observation that soybean seeds provide an effective strategy for achieving stable accumulation of functional therapeutic proteins, such as BMP2.



Introduction of the harpin Xooc -encoding gene hrf2 in soybean enhances resistance against the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora sojae

Abstract

Phytophthora root and stem rot (PRR) caused by an oomycete pathogen Phytophthora sojae is one of the most devastating and widespread diseases throughout soybean-producing regions worldwide. The diversity and variability of P. sojae races make effective control of the pathogen challenging. Here, we introduced an elicitor of plant defense response, the harpinXooc-encoding hrf2 gene from the rice bacterial pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola into soybean and evaluated resistance to P. sojae infection. Molecular analysis confirmed the integration and expression of hrf2 in the transgenic soybean. After inoculation with P. sojae, non-transformed control (NC) plants exhibited typical PRR symptoms, including necrotic and wilting leaves, and plant death, whereas most of the transgenic plants showed slightly chlorotic leaves and developed normally. Through T3 to T5 generations, the transgenic events displayed milder disease symptoms and had higher survival rates compared to NC plants, indicating enhanced and stable resistance to P. sojae infection, whereas without P. sojae inoculation, no significant differences in agronomic traits were observed between the transgenic and non-transformed plants. Moreover, after inoculation with P. sojae, significant upregulation of a set of plant defense-related genes, including salicylic acid- and jasmonic acid-dependent and hypersensitive response-related genes was observed in the transgenic plants. Our results indicate that hrf2 expression in transgenic soybean significantly enhanced resistance to P. sojae by eliciting multiple defense responses mediated by different signaling pathways. The potential functional role of the hrf2 gene in plant defense against P. sojae and other pathogens makes it a promising tool for broadening disease resistance in soybean.



Resistance status of Helicoverpa armigera against Bt cotton in Pakistan

Abstract

Transgenic cotton expressing the toxin Cry1Ac from Bacillus thuringiensis L. (Bt) is widely cultivated in Pakistan after its formal approval in 2010. The exposure of the local target pests to the Cry1Ac endotoxin for this duration might have changed the baseline susceptibility. To probe the status of resistance in one of the main target pests, Helicoverpa armigera, field-collected larvae were reared in the lab for conducting leaf fed bioassays. Twenty-six cotton accessions collected from farmers, including 25 Bt-cotton and one non-Bt, were tested to quantify the level of Cry1Ac, an insecticidal crystalline protein (ICP), in leaves of lower, middle and upper canopies of plants. The concentration of ICP was tested through Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay and found significantly variable (P < 0.01) between and within accessions. The highest mean expression was observed in Accession-2 and Accession-4, while the lowest in Accession-21 and Accession-19. Among fresh leaf tissues from different parts of the plant, the highest mean expression was recorded at 60 days after sowing in upper canopy leaves of cotton accessions, which decreased in lower parts of the plant with the lowest mean expression in lower canopy leaves. Laboratory bioassays, to calculate lethal dose, for H. armigera showed that LD50and LD95 were 0.62 μg/g and 1.59 μg/g of fresh tissue weight, respectively. A strong positive correlation also exists between the levels of Cry1Ac protein and insect mortality (r = 0.84). These findings suggested the future risk of cultivation of Bt cotton, carrying single Cry1Ac gene, in Pakistan, as resistance surging in H. armigera against Cry protein. These results may also have significant implications for the resistance management in Btcrops, especially cotton, in future.



β-Glucanase specific expression in the intestine of transgenic pigs

Abstract

Producing heterologous enzymes in the animal digestive tract to improve feed utilization rate is a new research strategy by transgenic technology. In this study, transgenic pigs specifically expressing β-glucanase gene in the intestine were successfully produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer technology in order to improve digestibility of dietary β-glucan and absorption of nutrients. The β-glucanase activity in the intestinal juice of 4 transgenic pigs was found to be 8.59 ± 2.49 U/mL. The feeding trial results showed that the crude protein digestion of 4 transgenic pigs was significantly increased compared with that of the non-transgenic pigs. In order to investigate the inheritance of the transgene, 7 G1 transgenic pigs were successfully obtained. The β-glucanase activity in the intestinal juice of 7 G1 transgenic pigs was found to be 2.35 ± 0.72 U/mL. The feeding trial results showed the crude protein digestion and crude fat digestion were significantly higher in 7 G1 transgenic pigs than in non-transgenic pigs. Taken together, our study demonstrated that the foreign β-glucanase expressing in the intestine of the transgenic pigs could reduce the anti-nutritional effect of β-glucans in feed. In addition, β-glucanase gene could be inherited to the offsprings and maintain its physiological function. It is a promising approach to improve feed utilization by producing transgenic animals.



Expression of the high molecular weight glutenin 1Ay gene from Triticum urartu in barley

Abstract

In this study, we successfully expressed the active 1Ay subunit of Triticum urartu in barley by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation with a transformation efficiency of 19.9%. The results of SDS–PAGE revealed that the expressed proteins of 1Ay subunit were present at some grains of each of 46 original T0 plants, showing identical mobility to those of positive standards of T. urartu grain protein and bacteria expressional proteins. In the T2generation, three homozygous lines, 2–28, 3–11, and 5–6, were identified. The results of scanning electron microscopy showed an increased amount of protein bodies in these transgenic lines. The main effects in the expression of the 1Ay subunits was a considerable increase in the glutenin content, but a decrease in the contents of gliadins while there were no effects in the contents of albumin, globulin and the total protein. We found that the gluten could not be washed out from the flour obtained from transgenic barley lines when using a Gluten index analyzer and a Farinograph indicating that the transgenic barley lines could not form dough. The lack of x-type HMW-GS and the reduction in number of subunit were inferred as the possible reasons for the inability to form gluten polymer.



Transgenic pigs expressing β-xylanase in the parotid gland improve nutrient utilization

Abstract

Xylan is one of the main anti-nutritional factors in pig's feed. Although supplementation of β-xylanase in diet can improve the utilization of nutrients in animals, it is limited by feed cost, manufacturing process and storage stability. To determine whether the expression of endogenous β-xylanase gene xynB in vivo can improve digestibility of dietary xylan and absorption of nutrients, we produced transgenic pigs which express the xynB from Aspergillus Niger CGMCC1067 in the parotid gland via nuclear transfer. In four live transgenic founders, β-xylanase activities in the saliva were 0.74, 0.59, 0.37 and 0.24 U/mL, respectively. Compared with non-transgenic pigs, the content of crude protein (CP) in feces reduced by 15.5% (P < 0.05). Furthermore, in 100 of the 271 F1 pigs the xynB gene was detectable. The digestibility of gross energy and CP in F1 transgenic pigs were increased by 5% and 22%, respectively, with the CP content in feces decreased by 6.4%. Taken together, our study showed that the transgenic pigs producing β-xylanase from parotid gland can reduce the anti-nutritional effect in animal diet and improve the utilization of nutrients.



Production of functional recombinant cyclic citrullinated peptide monoclonal antibody in transgenic rice cell suspension culture

Abstract

Cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody has been shown recently to be a promising marker for early detection and diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In order to exploit newly developed therapies for RA, early intervention is crucial in preventing irreversible joint damage. Here, we describe use of a plant expression system to produce a CCP antibody that could be used in the early diagnosis of RA. Heavy and light chain gene sequences of a CCP monoclonal antibody (CCP mAb) were cloned from the hybridoma cell (12G1) and introduced into two separate plant expression vectors under the control of the rice α-amylase 3D (RAmy3D) promoter system. The vectors were introduced into rice calli (Oryza sativa L. cv. Dongjin) using Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated transformation. Integration of the CCP mAb genes into rice chromosomes was confirmed by a genomic DNA polymerase chain reaction and expression was verified by northern blot analysis of mRNA. The in vivo assembly and secretion of CCP mAb occurred in transgenic rice cell suspension culture under the RAmy3D expression system; accumulated CCP mAbs in the medium were purified by protein G affinity chromatography. Immunoblot assays and ELISA showed these plant-produced CCP mAbs successfully bound to a synthetic CCP antigen. Taken together, our results suggest that CCP mAb produced in a transgenic rice suspension culture were easily purified and biologically active against their antigen in the RA, and thus may be used a specific serological marker, which is present very early in the RA.



Benefits of genome-edited crops: expert opinion

Abstract

Innovation in agriculture is pervasive. However, in spite of the success stories of twentieth century plant breeding, the twenty-first century has ushered in a set of challenges that solutions from the past century are unlikely to address. However, sustained research and the amalgamation of a number of disciplines has resulted in new breeding techniques (NBTs), such as genome editing, which offer the promise of new opportunities to resolve some of the issues. Here we present the results of an expert survey on the added potential benefits of genome-edited crops compared to those developed through genetic modification (GM) and conventional breeding. Overall, survey results reveal a consensus among experts on the enhanced agronomic performance and product quality of genome-edited crops over alternatives. The majority of experts indicated that the regulations for health and safety, followed by export markets, consumers, and the media play a major role in determining where and how NBTs, including genome editing, will be developed and used in agriculture. Further research is needed to gauge expert opinion after the Court of Justice of the European Union ruling establishing that site-specific mutagenic breeding technologies are to be regulated in the same fashion as GM crops, regardless of whether foreign DNA is present in the final variety.



Are current EU policies on GMOs justified?

Abstract

The European Court of Justice's recent ruling that the new techniques for crop development are to be considered as genetically modified organisms under the European Union's regulations exacerbates the need for a critical evaluation of those regulations. The paper analyzes the regulation from the perspective of moral and political philosophy. It considers whether influential arguments for restrictions of genetically modified organisms provide cogent justifications for the policies that are in place, in particular a pre-release authorization requirement, mandatory labelling, and de facto bans (in the form of withholding or opting out of authorizations). It is argued that arguments pertaining to risk can justify some form of pre-release authorization scheme, although not necessarily the current one, but that neither de facto bans nor mandatory labelling can be justified by reference to common arguments concerning naturalness, agricultural policy (in particular the promotion of organic farming), socio-economic effects, or consumers' right to choose.



Behavioral Medicine

Correction to: Caregiver Burden and Work Productivity Among Japanese Working Family Caregivers of People with Dementia

The authors have noted that the number of participants in the final sample should be 377, rather than 379. In this correction, the two mistaken cases were removed and analyses were repeated with 377 cases.



Complex Patterns Across the Migration Process and Associated HIV Testing and Risk Behaviors among Latino Immigrants

Abstract

Background

Migrants are at elevated risk for adverse HIV-related outcomes. Yet, there is limited understanding about the complexity of the migration process and the different migration experiences that may influence HIV testing and risk behaviors. This study examined whether patterns in immigrants' migration experience were associated with HIV risk and preventive behaviors.

Methods

Surveys were conducted with Latino immigrant adults (n = 306) in New York City during the spring of 2017. Informed by formative interviews, variables were developed to assess the migration process and document information about Latino immigrants' experiences during six particular stages of migration (pre-departure, travel, destination, interception, return, and settlement). We conducted a Latent Class Analysis (LCA) to detect patterns in the migration experience among participants and examined the associations between the latent classes and HIV testing and risk behaviors.

Results

LCA clustered participants into three migration experience classes: positive experience (50.3%), neutral experience (36.3%), and negative experience (13.4%). The migration classes were significantly associated with sociodemographic variables, including sex, age, and income. Different experiences during the migration process did not influence immigrants' past or current HIV testing or risk behaviors. However, the migration classes were associated with immigrants' future intentions to test for HIV with the positive migration experience class reporting greater intentions to test for HIV in the next 12 months than the negative experience class (aOR, 2.95; 95% CI, 1.21–7.17; p < .05).

Conclusion

Results suggest the applicability of a migration experience framework for understanding future HIV risk and preventive behaviors among immigrants.



Commonalities and Differences in Psychological Adjustment to Chronic Illnesses Among Older Adults: a Comparative Study Based on the Stress and Coping Paradigm

Abstract

Background

This study aimed to validate the role of the stress and coping paradigm in the context of psychological adjustment to chronic illnesses among older adults by using the structural equation modeling technique, as well as investigating the differences in structural weights between older adults with arthritis and older adults with hypertension.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 325 older adults with chronic illnesses (149 hypertension, 176 arthritis), aged 60–88 years, who completed questions on perceived social support, psychological resources, threat appraisal, self-efficacy, coping strategy, depressive symptoms, and anxiety.

Results

The results revealed that older adults with arthritis experienced significantly higher anxiety (t = 2.91, p < 0.01) than those with hypertension, whereas no significant difference in their depressive symptoms was observed (t = 1.61, p > 0.05). Social support, psychological resources, threat appraisal, and self-efficacy had a significant direct relationship with psychological distress (β = − 0.15, β = − 0.38, β = 0.19, β = − 0.23, respectively). Multi-group analyses showed significant differences in structural weights between older adults with hypertension and those with arthritis (Δχ2 = 41.336, Δdf = 18, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The stress and coping paradigm appears to be applicable for adjustment to chronic illnesses by allowing direct paths from social support, psychological resources, threat appraisal, and self-efficacy to psychological distress. The differences in structural weights may offer an intervening angle for clinical practitioners to design targeted interventions for older adults with different types of chronic illnesses.



Caregiver Burden and Work Productivity Among Japanese Working Family Caregivers of People with Dementia

Abstract

Background

We examined the association between caregiver burden and work productivity (i.e., absenteeism, presenteeism, and overall work impairment) among working family caregivers of people with dementia and whether job characteristics (i.e., job demands, job control, supervisor and coworker support) moderate this association.

Methods

A cross-sectional correlational study design using a web-based questionnaire survey was conducted among 379 Japanese working family caregivers of people with dementia (105 female, age range 20–77) in May 2016, which measured caregiver burden, work productivity, care situation, job characteristics, and demographics. Caregiver burden was designated as an independent variable and each aspect of work productivity as a dependent variable in a hierarchical multiple regression analysis, adjusting for demographics. Interaction terms between caregiver burden and each job characteristic were also included in the model.

Results

Caregiver burden was significantly and positively associated with presenteeism (β = 0.219, p < 0.001) and overall work impairment (β = 0.181, p < 0.001), while the association of caregiver burden with absenteeism was not significant (β = − 0.003, p = 0.953). Interaction effects of caregiver burden × coworker support on presenteeism (β = − 0.189, p = 0.023) and overall work impairment (β = − 0.172, p = 0.034) were significant. According to simple slope analyses, caregiver burden was greater at lower levels of coworker support compared to higher levels of coworker support for both presenteeism and overall work impairment.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that higher caregiver burden is associated with a decrease in work productivity. Additionally, coworker support appears to buffer the association of caregiver burden with presenteeism and overall work impairment among working family caregivers of people with dementia.



Acculturation Moderates the Effects of Expressive Writing on Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms Among Chinese American Breast Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Background

Previous research indicated that the benefits of expressive writing on cancer patients' physical and psychological well-being may vary across cultures. However, it remains unknown whether the within-ethnicity cultural orientation would also moderate the efficacy of expressive writing. Immigrants are a special population who differ widely in extent of endorsing the home culture and the host culture. We examined the role of acculturation in moderating the effect of expressive writing among Chinese American breast cancer survivors in reducing different post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom clusters: re-experiencing, avoidance, and arousal.

Method

Ninety-six Chinese American breast cancer survivors were randomly assigned to three groups to write about cancer-related topics: a self-regulation group to write about deepest feelings, stress coping, and finding benefits; an emotional disclosure group to write about deepest feelings; and a cancer-fact group to write about cancer experience objectively. The only examined moderator, acculturation, was assessed at baseline. PTSD symptoms were assessed at baseline and 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-ups.

Results

Acculturation moderated the effect of expressive writing at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Among participants with low acculturation, PTSD symptoms were less severe in the self-regulation and cancer-fact groups compared with the emotional disclosure group; in contrast, no group differences in PTSD were found among highly acculturated participants.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the important role of sub-ethnic cultural orientation in the efficacy of psychosocial interventions targeting immigrant populations.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03546673



Associations of Pain Intensity and Frequency With Loneliness, Hostility, and Social Functioning: Cross-Sectional, Longitudinal, and Within-Person Relationships

Abstract

Background

The current studies investigated associations between pain intensity and pain frequency with loneliness, hostility, and social functioning using cross-sectional, longitudinal, and within-person data from community-dwelling adults with varying levels of pain.

Method

Secondary analysis of preexisting data was conducted. Study 1 investigated cross-sectional (baseline data: n = 741) and longitudinal (follow-up data: n = 549, observed range between baseline and follow-up: 6–53 months) associations. Study 2 tested within-person associations using daily diaries across 30 days from a subset of the participants in Study 1 (n = 69).

Results

Cross-sectionally, pain intensity and frequency were associated with higher loneliness (βintensity = 0.16, βfrequency = 0.17) and worse social functioning (βintensity = − 0.40, βfrequency = − 0.34). Intensity was also associated with higher hostility (β = 0.11). Longitudinally, pain intensity at baseline predicted hostility (β = 0.19) and social functioning (β = − 0.20) at follow-up, whereas pain frequency only predicted social functioning (β = − 0.21). Within people, participants reported higher hostility (γ = 0.002) and worse social functioning (γ = − 0.013) on days with higher pain, and a significant average pain by daily pain interaction was found for loneliness. Pain intensity did not predict social well-being variables on the following day.

Conclusion

Pain intensity and frequency were associated with social well-being, although the effects were dependent on the social well-being outcome and the time course being examined.



Coding Client Language in Motivational Interviewing for HIV Medication Adherence Using Self-Determination Theory

Abstract

Background

Both motivational interviewing (MI) and self-determination theory (SDT) emphasise the importance of an individual's autonomy. SDT proposes that motivation is on a continuum with autonomous motivation (AM) at the self-determined end of the spectrum. Whether client speech reflects AM is not coded in MI process studies, however, as it is subsumed under the broader category of change talk (CT). We aimed to code naturalistic speech within MI sessions for HIV medication (antiretroviral) adherence according to whether expressed motivation was autonomous or controlled. We then assessed relationships between adherence and both autonomous/controlled motivational speech (AM/CM) and CT.

Methods

We developed a new coding tool (the SDT coding system: SDTCS) to measure naturally occurring AM speech and CM speech expressed during an MI session targeting antiretroviral (ART) adherence with 62 adults living with HIV (16 female; mean age 40 years). We coded the same sessions using the motivational interviewing skills code (MISC) 2.5 and then examined relationships with on-time ART adherence.

Results

The SDTCS was developed using a combined inductive and deductive approach. Adequate reliability estimates were achieved and the measure possessed good content validity. Naturally occurring AM speech had a stronger relationship to ART adherence in the week after the MI session than CM speech. There was also some evidence that the relationship between AM speech and adherence was stronger than between CT and adherence.

Conclusion

Future refinement and extension of the SDTCS could allow for a more nuanced understanding of client motivational speech that is currently provided by existing coding tools.



Mapping a Syndemic of Psychosocial Risks During Pregnancy Using Network Analysis

Abstract

Background

Psychosocial risks during pregnancy impact maternal health in resource-limited settings, and HIV-positive women often bear a heavy burden of these factors. This study sought to use network modeling to characterize co-occurring psychosocial risks to maternal and child health among at-risk pregnant women.

Methods

Two hundred pregnant HIV-positive women attending antenatal care in South Africa were enrolled. Measured risk factors included younger age, low income, low education, unemployment, unintended pregnancy, distress about pregnancy, antenatal depression, internalized HIV stigma, violence exposure, and lack of social support. Network analysis between risk factors was conducted in R using mixed graphical modeling. Centrality statistics were examined for each risk node in the network.

Results

In the resulting network, unintended pregnancy was strongly tied to distress about pregnancy. Distress about pregnancy was most central in the network and was connected to antenatal depression and HIV stigma. Unintended pregnancy was also associated with lack of social support, which was itself linked to antenatal depression, HIV stigma, and low income. Finally, antenatal depression was connected to violence exposure.

Conclusions

Our results characterize a network of psychosocial risks among pregnant HIV-positive women. Distress about pregnancy emerged as central to this network, suggesting that unintended pregnancy is particularly distressing in this population and may contribute to further risks to maternal health, such as depression. Prevention of unintended pregnancies and interventions for coping with unplanned pregnancies may be particularly useful where multiple risks intersect. Efforts addressing single risk factors should consider an integrated, multilevel approach to support women during pregnancy.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03069417



What Determines Support for Donor Registration Systems? The Influence of Sociopolitical Viewpoint, Attitudes Toward Organ Donation, and Patients' Need

Abstract

Background

In forming opinions about donor registration systems such as opt-in versus opt-out, the sociopolitical implications of these systems may be confounded with attitudes toward organ donation itself, causing people to talk at cross purposes. The goal of the present research was to examine the interactive effects of sociopolitical viewpoint, attitude toward donation (as evidenced by current registration status in study 1 and registration intention of unregistered individuals in study 2), and patients' need for organs on people's support for a particular system.

Method

In study 1, we randomly assigned registered donors, registered nondonors, and nonregistered individuals to one of three sociopolitically inspired solutions to reducing the organ shortage, distinguishing between solutions based on autonomy, coercion by the state, and reciprocity, respectively. In study 2, we concentrated specifically on young and unregistered people in order to examine how prior donation intentions or indecision with respect to donor registration affect responses to the three different sociopolitical viewpoints. In both studies, we also manipulated salience of patients' need.

Results

Registered donors in study 1 and unregistered individuals with donation intention in study 2 (high in sympathy, low in anxiety) were highly and equally supportive of a solution based on autonomy and coercion. In contrast, registered nondonors in study 1 and unregistered and undecided individuals in study 2 (lower in sympathy, higher in anxiety) were less supportive of a solution based on coercion than autonomy. Study 2 also found that, for undecided individuals, a more salient need state was associated with a drop in anxiety and stronger support for coercion. Results for a system based on reciprocity were more difficult to interpret.

Conclusion

Individuals most concerned with the need of patients waiting for an organ are relatively indifferent with respect to the sociopolitical implications of a registration system, while those strongly objecting to a coercive role for the state express reservations against organ donation itself. In order to help people to form balanced opinions about organ donation systems, we recommend to make the prosocial and sociopolitical aspects equally salient and deserving of debate.



Perceptions of Health Behaviors and Mobile Health Applications in an Academically Elite College Population to Inform a Targeted Health Promotion Program

Abstract

Background

College is a critical developmental time when many emerging adults engage in unhealthy behaviors (i.e., lack of exercise, poor diet, smoking) and consequently experience an increased risk for a decline in cardiovascular health. Understanding the beliefs and opinions of the target population is important to develop effective health promotion interventions. The goal of this study was to understand opinions regarding health and health-related mobile technology of college students at an academically elite Midwestern university in order to inform a mobile health promotion intervention following the integrated behavioral model framework.

Method

Eighteen college students between the ages of 18 and 22 participated in one of four focus groups, where they discussed perceptions of health behaviors, technology use, and their college environment. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis as well as consensus and conformity analysis.

Results

Students reported prioritizing academic success over health and believed in a cultural norm within the university that unhealthy behavioral practices lead to increased academic success. Other identified barriers to achieving good health were (a) low self-efficacy for engaging in healthy behaviors when presented with conflicting academic opportunities and (b) low estimation of the importance of engaging in health behaviors. Regarding mobile health applications (apps), students reported preferring apps that were visually attractive, personalized to each user, and that did not involve competing against other users.

Conclusion

These results have implications for the development of mobile health promotion interventions for college students, as they highlight facilitators and barriers to health behavior change in an academically elite student body.



Taylor & Francis


 
 
 
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