bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Treatment Outcomes and Prognosis After Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer
Authors: Peng Qing-he , Chen Kai , Li Jun-yun , Chen Li , Ye Wei-jun
Published: July 2022

The aims of this study were to investigate the short-term and long-term efficacies and chronic radiotoxicity of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) combined with image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) and identify prognostic factors in this patient population. The clinical data of 204 patients with cervical cancer who completed CCRT and subsequent brachytherapy in our hospital between February 2015 and March 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Short-term and long-term outcomes, chronic radiotoxicity, and prognostic factors were assessed. The median follow-up was 61.1 months. The short-term objective response (OR) rate was 85%. Lymph node metastasis before treatment was an independent predictor of OR (HR = 6.290, 95% CI: 2.211-17.897, p = 0.001). Fifty-two patients developed recurrence, with a median recurrence-free survival of 9.9 months (range, 2.4-52.2 months) and a post-recurrence survival of 12.1 months (range, 2.9-58.1 months). At 3 years, the cumulative incidence of overall recurrence was 26% (95% CI: 17-36). Multivariate analysis showed that Stage IIIB (HR = 2.332, 95% CI: 1.195-4.551, p = 0.013; reference, Stage IIB) and lymph node metastasis (HR = 4.462, 95% CI: 2.365-8.419, p < 0.001) were significant independent predictors of recurrence. Fifty-three patients developed chronic radiation proctitis (CRP). The incidence of severe CRP was approximately 5%, and the average rectal D2cm3 accumulation in patients with severe CRP was 73.4 Gy which is 3.9 Gy higher than that in patients without CRP (p = 0.013). At 4 years, the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival rates were 65% and 62%, respectively, and lymph node metastasis before treatment was an independent prognostic risk factor for OS. The short-term and long-term efficacies of CCRT combined with IGABT for the treatment of LACC patients were relatively satisfactory. However, the short-term and long-term efficacies of patients with lymph node metastasis before treatment were poor. For patients with lymph node metastasis before treatment, more active individualized treatment strategies should be adopted. When designing a radiotherapy plan, it is necessary to strictly limit the rectal D2cm3 accumulation to prevent serious CRP.
Looking Beyond the Glioblastoma Mask: Is Genomics the Right Path?
Authors: Montella Liliana , Del Gaudio Nunzio , Bove Guglielmo , Cuomo Mariella , Buonaiuto Michela , Costabile Davide , Visconti Roberta , Facchini Gaetano , Altucci Lucia , Chiariotti Lorenzo , Della Monica Rosa
Published: July 2022

Glioblastomas are the most frequent and malignant brain tumor hallmarked by an invariably poor prognosis. They have been classically differentiated into primary isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 or 2 (IDH1 -2) wild-type (wt) glioblastoma (GBM) and secondary IDH mutant GBM, with IDH wt GBMs being commonly associated with older age and poor prognosis. Recently, genetic analyses have been integrated with epigenetic investigations, strongly implementing typing and subtyping of brain tumors, including GBMs, and leading to the new WHO 2021 classification. GBM genomic and epigenomic profile influences evolution, resistance, and therapeutic responses. However, differently from other tumors, there is a wide gap between the refined GBM profiling and the limited therapeutic opportunities. In addition, the different oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes involved in glial cell transformation, the heterogeneous nature of cancer, and the restricted access of drugs due to the blood–brain barrier have limited clinical advancements. This review will summarize the more relevant genetic alterations found in GBMs and highlight their potential role as potential therapeutic targets.
Research Progress of Photothermal Nanomaterials in Multimodal Tumor Therapy
Authors: Shi Xiaolu , Tian Ye , Liu Yang , Xiong Zhengrong , Zhai Shaobo , Chu Shunli , Gao Fengxiang
Published: July 2022

The aggressive growth of cancer cells brings extreme challenges to cancer therapy while triggering the exploration of the application of multimodal therapy methods. Multimodal tumor therapy based on photothermal nanomaterials is a new technology to realize tumor cell thermal ablation through near-infrared light irradiation with a specific wavelength, which has the advantages of high efficiency, less adverse reactions, and effective inhibition of tumor metastasis compared with traditional treatment methods such as surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Photothermal nanomaterials have gained increasing interest due to their potential applications, remarkable properties, and advantages for tumor therapy. In this review, recent advances and the common applications of photothermal nanomaterials in multimodal tumor therapy are summarized, with a focus on the different types of photothermal nanomaterials and their application in multimodal tumor therapy. Moreover, the challenges and future applications have also been speculated.
Case Report: Challenging Perioperative Decision-Making in a Neonate With Transposition of Great Arteries and Novel Coronary Anatomy
Authors: Chegondi Madhuradhar , Ricci Marco , Ashwath Ravi C.
Published: July 2022

Transposition of great arteries (d-TGA) is often associated with various coronary artery (CA) patterns. These anomalous patterns can cause variable clinical symptoms of coronary ischemia including sudden death. CA pattern is one of the major determinants of outcome in TGA postoperatively. An advanced cardiac imaging and a multidisciplinary care approach are essential for a favorable outcome. Here, we describe a novel CA origin pattern in a neonate with d-TGA, who developed myocardial ischemia and required a coronary unroofing procedure for a full recovery.
Case Report: Pathological Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Alectinib in a Patient With Resectable ALK-Positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hu Yan , Ren Siying , Wang Ruoyao , Han Wei , Xiao Peng , Wang Li , Yu Fenglei , Liu Wenliang
Published: July 2022

Background: Alectinib, a highly selective inhibitor of ALK, is currently used in the first-line setting of untreated advanced ALK-positive NSCLC and in the second-line setting of crizotinib-resistant ALK-positive NSCLC. Despite promising efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of advanced ALK-positive NSCLC, the activity of alectinib as neoadjuvant therapy in resectable ALK-positive NSCLC remains to be investigated.

Case presentation: Herein, we report a case of a 58-year-old female patient presented to our hospital with hemoptysis for 1 month. Contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CT) of the chest showed an approximately 4.2 × 3.4 cm mass in the right hilum with localized obstructive pneumonia in the right lower lobe and multiple enlarged lymph nodes in the right hilum and mediastinum. Serum oncological markers results showed elevated levels of CA19-9, CEA, CA125, and CA242. Bronchoscopic biopsy of the mass showed poorly differentiated pulmonary adenocarcinoma and immunohistochemical testing results confirmed ALK positivity. Neoadjuvant alectinib was given at a dosage of 600 mg twice per day for two cycles (56 days), achieving a partial response of the disease with 90% shrinkage of the mass at the subsequent whole-body positron emission tomography. Repeat serum oncological markers results showed that only CA125 was elevated, but lower than before therapy. A bilobectomy of the right middle and lower lobes and systemic lymphadectomy under video-assisted thoracoscopic approach was successfully performed 7 days after the last dose of alectinib. Postoperative pathology showed pathological complete response (pCR). The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative course and continued to receive alectinib and did not report any specific discomfort at her 8-month follow-up. Thoracoabdominal CT at 8 months postoperatively showed no recurrence and repeated examination of serum oncological markers were negative.

Conclusion: We report a case of resectable ALK-positive NSCLC treated with neoadjuvant aletinib achieving pCR. Our case highlights the feasibility of alectinib as neoadjuvant therapy for the treatment of resectable ALK-positive NSCLC. Undoubtedly, the safety and efficacy of this novel treatment modality needs to be explored in future large clinical trials.
Progress in Research on Antitumor Drugs and Dynamic Changes in Skeletal Muscles
Authors: Xu Ting , Li Zhen-Hao , Liu Ting , Jiang Cai-Hong , Zhang Ya-Juan , Li Hui , Jiang Ying , Zhao Juan , Guo Wen-Jing , Guo Jia-Yuan , Wang Lu , Li Jia-Xuan , Shen Jing , Jin Gao-Wa , Zhang Ze-Wei , Li Quan-Fu
Published: July 2022

Objective: To review the research progress of reltionship between antitumor drugs and the dynamic changes of the skeletal muscles during treatment phase.

Background: Sarcopenia is a common disease in patients with tumors, and it has been agreed that patients with tumors and sarcopenia experience more serious adverse reactions and have a shorter long-term survival after antitumor therapy than patients without sarcopenia. Antitumor drugs whilst beneficial for tumor regression, interferes and synergizes with cancer-induced muscle wasting/sarcopenia, induced myodemia or intramuscular fat and the two conditions often overlap making it difficult to drive conclusions. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the dynamic changes in skeletal muscles during antitumor drug therapy. Dynamic changes refer not only measurement skeletal muscle quantity at baseline level, but give more emphasis on the increasing or decreasing level during or end of the whole treatment course.

Methods: We retrievaled published English-language original research articles via pubmed, those studies mainly focused on repeated measurements of skeletal muscle index using computed tomography (CT) in cancer patients who received antitumor drug treatment but not received interventions that produced muscle mass change (such as exercise and nutritional interventions).

Conclusion: This article will summarize the research progress to date. Most of antineoplastic drug cause skeletal muscle loss during the treatment course, loss of L3 skeletal muscle index is always associated with poor clinical outcomes.
Vaccine Safety Surveillance Using Routinely Collected Healthcare Data—An Empirical Evaluation of Epidemiological Designs
Authors: Schuemie Martijn J. , Arshad Faaizah , Pratt Nicole , Nyberg Fredrik , Alshammari Thamir M , Hripcsak George , Ryan Patrick , Prieto-Alhambra Daniel , Lai Lana Y. H. , Li Xintong , Fortin Stephen , Minty Evan , Suchard Marc A.
Published: July 2022

Background: Routinely collected healthcare data such as administrative claims and electronic health records (EHR) can complement clinical trials and spontaneous reports to detect previously unknown risks of vaccines, but uncertainty remains about the behavior of alternative epidemiologic designs to detect and declare a true risk early.

Methods: Using three claims and one EHR database, we evaluate several variants of the case-control, comparative cohort, historical comparator, and self-controlled designs against historical vaccinations using real negative control outcomes (outcomes with no evidence to suggest that they could be caused by the vaccines) and simulated positive control outcomes.

Results: Most methods show large type 1 error, often identifying false positive signals. The cohort method appears either positively or negatively biased, depending on the choice of comparator index date. Empirical calibration using effect-size estimates for negative control outcomes can bring type 1 error closer to nominal, often at the cost of increasing type 2 error. After calibration, the self-controlled case series (SCCS) design most rapidly detects small true effect sizes, while the historical comparator performs well for strong effects.

Conclusion: When applying any method for vaccine safety surveillance we recommend considering the potential for systematic error, especially due to confounding, which for many designs appears to be substantial. Adjusting for age and sex alone is likely not sufficient to address differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated, and for the cohort method the choice of index date is important for the comparability of the groups. Analysis of negative control outcomes allows both quantification of the systematic error and, if desired, subsequent empirical calibration to restore type 1 error to its nominal value. In order to detect weaker signals, one may have to accept a higher type 1 error.
Novel Gemcitabine-Re(I) Bisquinolinyl Complex Combinations and Formulations With Liquid Crystalline Nanoparticles for Pancreatic Cancer Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liew Hui Shan , Mai Chun-Wai , Zulkefeli Mohd , Madheswaran Thiagarajan , Kiew Lik Voon , Pua Lesley Jia Wei , Hii Ling Wei , Lim Wei Meng , Low May Lee
Published: July 2022

With less than 10% of 5-year survival rate, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is known to be one of the most lethal types of cancer. Current literature supports that gemcitabine is the first-line treatment of PDAC. However, poor cellular penetration of gemcitabine along with the acquired and intrinsic chemoresistance of tumor against it often reduced its efficacy and hence necessitates the administration of high gemcitabine dose during chemotherapy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), a more selective and minimally invasive treatment, may be used synergistically with gemcitabine to reduce the doses utilized and dose-related side effects. This study reports the synergistic use of Re(I) bisquinolinyl complex, a transition metal complex photosensitizer with gemcitabine against PDAC. Re(I) bisquinolinyl complex was found to act synergistically with gemcitabine against PDAC in vitro at various ratios. With the aim to enhance cellular uptake and therapeutic efficiency, the Re(I) bisquinolinyl complex and gemcitabine were encapsulated into liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LCNPs) system. The formulations were found to produce homogeneous drug-loaded LCNPs (average size: 159–173 nm, zeta potential +1.06 to −10 mV). Around 70% of gemcitabine and 90% of the Re(I) bisquinolinyl complex were found to be entrapped efficiently in the formulated LCNPs. The release rate of gemcitabine or/and the Re(I) bisquinolinyl complex loaded into LCNPs was evaluated in vitro, and the hydrophilic gemcitabine was released at a faster rate than the lipophilic Re(I) complex. LCNPs loaded with gemcitabine and Re(I) bisquinolinyl complex in a 1:1 ratio illustrated the best anti-cancer activity among the LCNP formulations (IC50 of BxPC3: 0.15 μM; IC50 of SW 1990: 0.76 μM) through apoptosis. The current findings suggest the potential use of transition metal-based photosensitizer as an adjunctive agent for gemcitabine-based chemotherapy against PDAC and the importance of nano-formulation in such application.
Stretched Horizon as a Quantum Gravity Beam Splitter
Authors: Crowell Lawrence
Published: July 2022

The disentanglement of a black hole with its Hawking radiation is a form of CNOT operation that demolishes entanglements. This mechanism is due to boundary condition set up on the stretched horizon in holography. This is reconsidered here as an entanglement swap with the transfer of entanglement, where aged Hawking radiation is not entangled with the black hole (BH), but rather with gravitons or BMS charges at I+.
Infinite-Dimensional Algebras as Extensions of Kinematic Algebras
Authors: Gomis Joaquim , Kleinschmidt Axel
Published: July 2022

Kinematic algebras can be realised on geometric spaces and constrain the physical models that can live on these spaces. Different types of kinematic algebras exist and we consider the interplay of these algebras for non-relativistic limits of a relativistic system, including both the Galilei and the Carroll limit. We develop a framework that captures systematically the corrections to the strict non-relativistic limit by introducing new infinite-dimensional algebras, with emphasis on the Carroll case. One of our results is to highlight a new type of duality between Galilei and Carroll limits that extends to corrections as well. We realise these algebras in terms of particle models. Other applications include curvature corrections and particles in a background electro-magnetic field.
Mueller Matrix Imaging Optimized by Uniform Illumination
Authors: Guo Wei , Song Jiawei , Zeng Nan , Ma Hui
Published: July 2022

In this study, we present a flat-field Mueller matrix imaging system to reduce the reconstruction error caused by critical illumination. This study demonstrates that the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the reconstructed images is improved by about eight times by adding a beam shaping module made up of microlens arrays to a traditional Mueller system. The scalar diffraction theory and polarization numerical simulation show the ability of the new device in minimizing the adverse effects of light source noise on polarization reconstruction results. Finally, the experiment results on standard resolution board, porous anodic alumina, and real pathological slices further confirm the superiority of the flat-field Mueller system in precisely identifying sample structure and quantitative differences between various polarization parameters (depolarization ratio Δ, linear retardance δ, and birefringence orientation θ), demonstrating the potential of flat-field polarization imaging in pathological diagnosis and tissue characteristic extraction.
Beneficial Role of Blood Flow Restriction Exercise in Heart Disease and Heart Failure Using the Muscle Hypothesis of Chronic Heart Failure and a Growing Literature
Authors: Cahalin Lawrence P. , Formiga Magno F. , Owens Johnny , Anderson Brady , Hughes Luke
Published: July 2022

Background: Blood flow restriction exercise (BFRE) has become a common method to increase skeletal muscle strength and hypertrophy for individuals with a variety of conditions. A substantial literature of BFRE in older adults exists in which significant gains in strength and functional performance have been observed without report of adverse events. Research examining the effects of BFRE in heart disease (HD) and heart failure (HF) appears to be increasing for which reason the Muscle Hypothesis of Chronic Heart Failure (MHCHF) will be used to fully elucidate the effects BFRE may have in patients with HD and HF highlighted in the MHCHF.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed in PubMed and the Cochrane library through February 2022. Inclusion criteria were: 1) the study was original research conducted in human subjects older than 18 years of age and diagnosed with either HD or HF, 2) study participants performed BFRE, and 3) post-intervention outcome measures of cardiovascular function, physical performance, skeletal muscle function and structure, and/or systemic biomarkers were provided. Exclusion criteria included review articles and articles on viewpoints and opinions of BFRE, book chapters, theses, dissertations, and case study articles.

Results: Seven BFRE studies in HD and two BFRE studies in HF were found of which four of the HD and the two HF studies examined a variety of measures reflected within the MHCHF over a period of 8–24 weeks. No adverse events were reported in any of the studies and significant improvements in skeletal muscle strength, endurance, and work as well as cardiorespiratory performance, mitochondrial function, exercise tolerance, functional performance, immune humoral function, and possibly cardiac performance were observed in one or more of the reviewed studies.

Conclusion: In view of the above systematic review, BFRE has been performed safely with no report of adverse event in patients with a variety of different types of HD and in patients with HF. The components of the MHCHF that can be potentially improved with BFRE include left ventricular dysfunction, inflammatory markers, inactivity, a catabolic state, skeletal and possibly respiratory muscle myopathy, dyspnea and fatigue, ANS activity, and peripheral blood flow. Furthermore, investigation of feasibility, acceptability, adherence, adverse effects, and symptoms during and after BFRE is needed since very few studies have examined these important issues comprehensively in patients with HD and HF.
Insight Into the Metabolic Adaptations of Electrically Pulse-Stimulated Human Myotubes Using Global Analysis of the Transcriptome and Proteome
Authors: Mengeste Abel M. , Nikolić Nataša , Dalmao Fernandez Andrea , Feng Yuan Z. , Nyman Tuula A. , Kersten Sander , Haugen Fred , Kase Eili Tranheim , Aas Vigdis , Rustan Arild C. , Thoresen G. Hege
Published: July 2022

Electrical pulse stimulation (EPS) has proven to be a useful tool to interrogate cell-specific responses to muscle contraction. In the present study, we aimed to uncover networks of signaling pathways and regulatory molecules responsible for the metabolic effects of exercise in human skeletal muscle cells exposed to chronic EPS. Differentiated myotubes from young male subjects were exposed to EPS protocol 1 (i.e. 2 ms, 10 V, and 0.1 Hz for 24 h), whereas myotubes from middle-aged women and men were exposed to protocol 2 (i.e. 2 ms, 30 V, and 1 Hz for 48 h). Fuel handling as well as the transcriptome, cellular proteome, and secreted proteins of EPS-treated myotubes from young male subjects were analyzed using a combination of high-throughput RNA sequencing, high-resolution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, oxidation assay, and immunoblotting. The data showed that oxidative metabolism was enhanced in EPS-exposed myotubes from young male subjects. Moreover, a total of 81 differentially regulated proteins and 952 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were observed in these cells after EPS protocol 1. We also found 61 overlapping genes while comparing the DEGs to mRNA expression in myotubes from the middle-aged group exposed to protocol 2, assessed by microarray. Gene ontology (GO) analysis indicated that significantly regulated proteins and genes were enriched in biological processes related to glycolytic pathways, positive regulation of fatty acid oxidation, and oxidative phosphorylation, as well as muscle contraction, autophagy/mitophagy, and oxidative stress. Additionally, proteomic identification of secreted proteins revealed extracellular levels of 137 proteins were changed in myotubes from young male subjects exposed to EPS protocol 1. Selected putative myokines were measured using ELISA or multiplex assay to validate the results. Collectively, our data provides new insight into the transcriptome, proteome and secreted proteins alterations following in vitro exercise and is a valuable resource for understanding the molecular mechanisms and regulatory molecules mediating the beneficial metabolic effects of exercise.
The Molecular Effects of BDNF Synthesis on Skeletal Muscle: A Mini-Review
Authors: Rentería I. , García-Suárez P. C. , Fry A. C. , Moncada-Jiménez J. , Machado-Parra J. P. , Antunes B. M. , Jiménez-Maldonado A.
Published: July 2022

The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the nerve growth factor family which is generated mainly by the brain. Its main role involve synaptic modulation, neurogenesis, neuron survival, immune regulation, myocardial contraction, and angiogenesis in the brain. Together with the encephalon, some peripheral tissues synthesize BDNF like skeletal muscle. On this tissue, this neurotrophin participates on cellular mechanisms related to muscle function maintenance and plasticity as reported on recent scientific works. Moreover, during exercise stimuli the BDNF contributes directly to strengthening neuromuscular junctions, muscle regeneration, insulin-regulated glucose uptake and β-oxidation processes in muscle tissue. Given its vital relevance on many physiological mechanisms, the current mini-review focuses on discussing up-to-date knowledge about BDNF production in skeletal muscle and how this neurotrophin impacts skeletal muscle biology.
Combining Old and New Tricks: The Study of Genes, Neurons, and Behavior in Crayfish
Authors: Stein Wolfgang , DeMaegd Margaret L. , Benson Abigail M. , Roy Rajit S. , Vidal-Gadea Andrés G.
Published: July 2022

For over a century the nervous system of decapod crustaceans has been a workhorse for the neurobiology community. Many fundamental discoveries including the identification of electrical and inhibitory synapses, lateral and pre-synaptic inhibition, and the Na+/K+-pump were made using lobsters, crabs, or crayfish. Key among many advantages of crustaceans for neurobiological research is the unique access to large, accessible, and identifiable neurons, and the many distinct and complex behaviors that can be observed in lab settings. Despite these advantages, recent decades have seen work on crustaceans hindered by the lack of molecular and genetic tools required for unveiling the cellular processes contributing to neurophysiology and behavior. In this perspective paper, we argue that the recently sequenced marbled crayfish, Procambarus virginalis, is suited to become a genetic model system for crustacean neuroscience. P. virginalis are parthenogenetic and produce genetically identical offspring, suggesting that germline transformation creates transgenic animal strains that are easy to maintain across generations. Like other decapod crustaceans, marbled crayfish possess large neurons in well-studied circuits such as the giant tail flip neurons and central pattern generating neurons in the stomatogastric ganglion. We provide initial data demonstrating that marbled crayfish neurons are accessible through standard physiological and molecular techniques, including single-cell electrophysiology, gene expression measurements, and RNA-interference. We discuss progress in CRISPR-mediated manipulations of the germline to knock-out target genes using the ‘Receptor-mediated ovary transduction of cargo’ (ReMOT) method. Finally, we consider the impact these approaches will have for neurophysiology research in decapod crustaceans and more broadly across invertebrates.
Software Choice and Sequencing Coverage Can Impact Plastid Genome Assembly–A Case Study in the Narrow Endemic Calligonum bakuense
Authors: Giorgashvili Eka , Reichel Katja , Caswara Calvinna , Kerimov Vuqar , Borsch Thomas , Gruenstaeudl Michael
Published: July 2022

Most plastid genome sequences are assembled from short-read whole-genome sequencing data, yet the impact that sequencing coverage and the choice of assembly software can have on the accuracy of the resulting assemblies is poorly understood. In this study, we test the impact of both factors on plastid genome assembly in the threatened and rare endemic shrub Calligonum bakuense. We aim to characterize the differences across plastid genome assemblies generated by different assembly software tools and levels of sequencing coverage and to determine if these differences are large enough to affect the phylogenetic position inferred for C. bakuense compared to congeners. Four assembly software tools (FastPlast, GetOrganelle, IOGA, and NOVOPlasty) and seven levels of sequencing coverage across the plastid genome (original sequencing depth, 2,000x, 1,000x, 500x, 250x, 100x, and 50x) are compared in our analyses. The resulting assemblies are evaluated with regard to reproducibility, contig number, gene complement, inverted repeat length, and computation time; the impact of sequence differences on phylogenetic reconstruction is assessed. Our results show that software choice can have a considerable impact on the accuracy and reproducibility of plastid genome assembly and that GetOrganelle produces the most consistent assemblies for C. bakuense. Moreover, we demonstrate that a sequencing coverage between 500x and 100x can reduce both the sequence variability across assembly contigs and computation time. When comparing the most reliable plastid genome assemblies of C. bakuense, a sequence difference in only three nucleotide positions is detected, which is less than the difference potentially introduced through software choice.
Structure and Methylation of 35S rDNA in Allopolyploids Anemone multifida (2n = 4x = 32, BBDD) and Anemone baldensis (2n = 6x = 48, AABBDD) and Their Parental Species Show Evidence of Nucleolar Dominance
Authors: Mlinarec Jelena , Boštjančić Ljudevit Luka , Malenica Nenad , Jurković Adela , Boland Todd , Yakovlev Sonja Siljak , Besendorfer Višnja
Published: July 2022

Transcriptional silencing of 35S rDNA loci inherited from one parental species is occurring relatively frequently in allopolyploids. However, molecular mechanisms by which it is selected for transcriptional silencing remain unclear. We applied NGS, silver staining and bisulfite sequencing to study the structure, expression and methylation landscape of 35S rDNA in two allopolyploids of common origin, allotetraploid Anemone multifida (2n = 4x = 32, genome composition BBDD) and allohexaploid A. baldensis (2n = 6x = 48, AABBDD), and their genome donors, A. sylvestris (2n = 16, AA), A. cylindrica (2n = 16, BB) and A. parviflora (2n = 16, DD). The size of the recovered 35S rDNA units varied from 10,489 bp in A. cylindrica to 12,084 bp in A. sylvestris. Anemone showed an organization typical of most ribosomal 35S rDNA composed of NTS, ETS, rRNA genes, TTS and TIS with structural features of plant IGS sequences and all functional elements needed for rRNA gene activity. The NTS was more variable than the ETS and consisted of SRs which are highly variable among Anemone. Five to six CpG-rich islands were found within the ETS. CpG island located adjacent to the transcription initiation site (TIS) was highly variable regarding the sequence size and methylation level and exhibited in most of the species lower levels of methylation than CpG islands located adjacent to the 18S rRNA gene. Our results uncover hypomethylation of A. sylvestris- and A. parviflora-derived 35S rDNA units in allopolyploids A. multifida and A. baldensis. Hypomethylation of A. parviflora-derived 35S rDNA was more prominent in A. baldensis than in A. multifida. We showed that A. baldensis underwent coupled A. sylvestris-derived 35S rDNA array expansion and A. parviflora-derived 35S rDNA copy number decrease that was accompanied by lower methylation level of A. sylvestris-derived 35S rDNA units in comparison to A. parviflora-derived 35S rDNA units. These observations suggest that in A. baldensis nucleolar dominance is directed toward A. sylvestris-derived chromosomes. This work broadens our current knowledge of the 35S rDNA organization in Anemone and provides evidence of the progenitor-specific 35S rDNA methylation in nucleolar dominance.
Constitutive Defense Mechanisms Have a Major Role in the Resistance of Woodland Strawberry Leaves Against Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Zhao Yijie , Vlasselaer Liese , Ribeiro Bianca , Terzoudis Konstantinos , Van den Ende Wim , Hertog Maarten , Nicolaï Bart , De Coninck Barbara
Published: July 2022

The necrotrophic fungus Botrytis cinerea is a major threat to strawberry cultivation worldwide. By screening different Fragaria vesca genotypes for susceptibility to B. cinerea, we identified two genotypes with different resistance levels, a susceptible genotype F. vesca ssp. vesca Tenno 3 (T3) and a moderately resistant genotype F. vesca ssp. vesca Kreuzkogel 1 (K1). These two genotypes were used to identify the molecular basis for the increased resistance of K1 compared to T3. Fungal DNA quantification and microscopic observation of fungal growth in woodland strawberry leaves confirmed that the growth of B. cinerea was restricted during early stages of infection in K1 compared to T3. Gene expression analysis in both genotypes upon B. cinerea inoculation suggested that the restricted growth of B. cinerea was rather due to the constitutive resistance mechanisms of K1 instead of the induction of defense responses. Furthermore, we observed that the amount of total phenolics, total flavonoids, glucose, galactose, citric acid and ascorbic acid correlated positively with higher resistance, while H2O2 and sucrose correlated negatively. Therefore, we propose that K1 leaves are more resistant against B. cinerea compared to T3 leaves, prior to B. cinerea inoculation, due to a lower amount of innate H2O2, which is attributed to a higher level of antioxidants and antioxidant enzymes in K1. To conclude, this study provides important insights into the resistance mechanisms against B. cinerea, which highly depend on the innate antioxidative profile and specialized metabolites of woodland strawberry leaves.
Rising Shallow Groundwater Level May Facilitate Seed Persistence in the Supratidal Wetlands of the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Feng Lu , Peng Ling , Cui Qian , Yang Hong-Jun , Ma Jin-Zhao , Liu Jing-Tao
Published: July 2022

The saline groundwater level of many supratidal wetlands is rising, which is expected to continue into the future because of sea level rise by the changing climate. Plant persistence strategies are increasingly important in the face of changing climate. However, the response of seed persistence to increasing groundwater level and salinity conditions is poorly understood despite its importance for the continuous regeneration of plant populations. Here, we determined the initial seed germinability and viability of seven species from supratidal wetlands in the Yellow River Delta and then stored the seeds for 90 days. The storage treatments consisted of two factors: groundwater level (to maintain moist and saturated conditions) and groundwater salinity (0, 10, 20, and 30 g/L). After retrieval from experimental storage, seed persistence was assessed. We verified that the annuals showed greater seed persistence than the perennials in the supratidal wetlands. Overall, seed persistence was greater after storage in saturated conditions than moist conditions. Salinity positively affected seed persistence under moist conditions. Surprisingly, we also found that higher groundwater salinity was associated with faster germination speed after storage. These results indicate that, once dispersed into habitats with high groundwater levels and high groundwater salinity in supratidal wetlands, many species of seeds may not germinate but maintain viability for some amount of time to respond to climate change.
Contextual and Individual Variables as Predictors of Energy-Dense Meals in Food Choices
Authors: Borbón-Mendívil Daniela , Tapia-Fonllem Cesar , Fraijo-Sing Blanca
Published: July 2022

Diets based on meals that provide a large amount of energy and consumed frequently often increase the rate of growth of the body mass index (overweight or obesity) and, in turn, the risk of suffering from non-communicable diseases. In order to make a food choice, it is necessary to search for foods in the environment, taking into account physical and social variables (contextual variables) which, together with individual variables, delimit the situation of food selection. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of social facilitation, portion size, salience of food, and food preference or rejection on the selection of energy-dense foods by young college students. To do so, we performed a factorial experiment in which unaccompanied and accompanied participants (levels of social facilitation) as they went through the process of choosing from different options of main dishes, beverages, and desserts then noted the reasons for their selection (preference or rejection of the food). Results showed significant differences between the group of accompanied participants and salience of food in the selection of the energy-dense main dishes and desserts (pizza, spaghetti, and chocolate cake). A significant relationship was also identified between accompanied participants, hedonistic/sensory reasons (food preference or rejection category), and salience of food in the selection of the energy-dense main dishes. In conclusion, key findings of the variables that constitute the situation that predicts the selection of energy-dense foods have emerged from this study, when participants and the given level of social facilitation (in this case, being accompanied) were faced with the conditions of the food salience of the meals of their preference regarding its taste and appearance.
The Relations of Attention to and Clarity of Feelings With Facial Affect Perception
Authors: Suslow Thomas , Kersting Anette
Published: July 2022

Attention to emotions and emotional clarity are core dimensions of individual differences in emotion awareness. Findings from prior research based on self-report indicate that attention to and recognition of one’s own emotions are related to attention to and recognition of other people’s emotions. In the present experimental study, we examined the relations of attention to and clarity of emotions with the efficiency of facial affect perception. Moreover, it was explored whether attention to and clarity of emotions are linked to negative interpretations of facial expressions. A perception of facial expressions (PFE) task based on schematic faces with neutral, ambiguous, or unambiguous emotional expressions and a gender decision task were administered to healthy individuals along with measures of emotion awareness, state and trait anxiety, depression, and verbal intelligence. Participants had to decide how much the faces express six basic affects. Evaluative ratings and decision latencies were analyzed. Attention to feelings was negatively correlated with evaluative decision latency, whereas clarity of feelings was not related to decision latency in the PFE task. Attention to feelings was positively correlated with the perception of negative affects in ambiguous faces. Attention to feelings and emotional clarity were not related to gender decision latency. According to our results, dispositional attention to feelings goes along with an enhanced efficiency of facial affect perception. Habitually paying attention to one’s own emotions may facilitate processing of external emotional information. Preliminary evidence was obtained suggesting a relationship of dispositional attention to feelings with negative interpretations of facial expressions.
The Impact of Big Data Management Capabilities on the Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Asian Economy During COVID-19: The Mediating Role of Organizational Agility and Moderating Role of Information Technology Capability
Authors: Zhang Junling , Li Hualong
Published: July 2022

The main purpose of this study is to examine the impact of the big data management capabilities on the performance of manufacturing firms in the Asian Economy during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In addition to this, this study is also planned to examine the mediating role of organizational agility in the relationship between the big data management capabilities and the performance of Chinese manufacturing firms during COVID-19. Last, this study has examined the moderating role of information technology capability in the relationship between the big data management capabilities and performance of Chinese manufacturing firms during COVID-19. This study adopted the quantitative method of research with a cross-sectional technique. This study employed a questionnaire to gather the data as a research instrument. This study has used the purposive sampling method by keeping in mind the context of this study. Employees of the Chinese SMEs that were at least 10 years old were the population of this study. The research model was being analyzed by employing the “partial least squares” technique through statistical software the Smart PLS version 3. The results are in line with the proposed hypothesis. This study contributed to the literature by suggesting characteristics that promote or prevent the organization from successfully implementing big data and pointed out that showing resistance in information management system implementation may have different effects on the organization. Besides, the study also discussed the relationship between such information systems and the organization. Findings of these two factors provide insights for the practitioners and researchers in assessing the success or failure of organizations for using big data.
Understanding Chinese Consumers’ Livestreaming Impulsive Buying: An Stimulus-Organism-Response Perspective and the Mediating Role of Emotions and Zhong Yong Tendency
Authors: Gao Hongli , Chen Xinzhi , Gao Hongling , Yu Bin
Published: July 2022

We built a livestreaming impulsive buying model based on stimulus-organism-response (SOR) theory, and we explored the impact of atmospheric cues (ACELS) and sales promotion (SPELS) on impulsive buying (IBI) based on emotions (EOC) and Zhong Yong tendency (ZYT) of online consumers. Combined with holistic orientation, perspective integration, and harmony maintenance, ZYT is a cognitive process involving individual events. We gathered 478 samples using a questionnaire to test the proposed research model. The empirical findings show that as the stimuli in the livestreaming environment, ACELS and SPELS during livestreaming greatly boost EOC while significantly constraining consumers’ ZYT. Among online consumers, positive EOC promotes IBI, whereas ZYT dampens it. In addition, EOC and ZYT mediate the relationship between stimulus factors and response factors in parallel, resulting in four model mediation paths. By incorporating the SOR model, this study provides theoretical underpinnings for the role of cognitive processing in impulsive purchases, as well as useful guidance for e-commerce platforms and streamers to effectively understand Chinese consumers’ purchase behavior, which benefits the development of effective promotion strategies and the creation of powerful marketing tools.
Using Digital Concept Maps in Conflict Resolution Studies: Implications for Students’ Argumentative Skills, Domain-Specific Knowledge, and Academic Efficacy
Authors: Kapshuk Yoav , Alt Dorit
Published: July 2022

While argumentation emerges as one of the major learning skills in the twenty-first century, a somewhat opaque landscape is revealed in terms of identifying its potential in enhancing higher-education students’ domain-specific knowledge. In this study, argumentation-for-learning activity with digital concept mapping (CM) was designed and compared with a traditional teacher-centered activity to determine the former’s effectiveness in promoting students’ domain-specific factual, conceptual, and procedural knowledge. This study also examines how the proposed activity may contribute to students’ academic efficacy and thus promote meaningful learning. A quasi-experimental design was employed by using convenience samples. Two identical courses were selected for this research: the first course with a total of 59 students (the research group), and the second course including a total of 63 students (the control group). Both groups’ domain-specific knowledge was assessed before and after the activity. The designed activity was found to be less effective in fostering factual knowledge and more effective in developing the conceptual and procedural knowledge domains. Another finding demonstrated the benefits of argumentation for learning with CM in facilitating students’ academic efficacy. It can be concluded that engaging students in a deep argumentation learning process may in turn deepen predominantly conceptual and procedural domain-specific knowledge. Limitations and implications are discussed.
Interest in Co-located Reproductive and Sexual Health Services Among Women and Men Receiving Medication for Opioid Use Disorder in an Outpatient Treatment Clinic
Authors: Stoltman Jonathan J. K. , Lander Laura R. , Patrick Julie H. , Terplan Mishka , Jones Hendrée E.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Reproductive and sexual health (RSH) are core components of comprehensive care, yet often omitted in addiction treatment. We characterize knowledge of and interest in RSH services and contraceptive method awareness and use in a rural, Appalachian outpatient clinic.

Materials and Methods

Between September 2016 and April 2018, a convenience sample of 225 patients receiving treatment for opioid use disorder at an outpatient buprenorphine/naloxone clinic was collected. Participants completed a cross-sectional RSH survey that included demographics, interest in RSH service integration, contraceptive use, and contraceptive knowledge.

Results

A total of 212 people (126 non-pregnant women, 29 pregnant women, and 57 men) completed the survey of whom 45.8% indicated interest in adding RSH services. Services of interest include regular physical exams (44.8%), STI/STD testing (41.0%), and contraception education and administration (38.2%). There were no significant differences between interest in co-located services between women and men (P = 0.327). Current contraceptive use was low (17.9–30.9%) among women and men. Contraceptive method awareness was 43.3% for high efficacy methods and 50.0% for medium efficacy methods. Women and currently pregnant women knew more total, high, and medium efficacy contraceptive method than men (P = 0.029).

Discussion

Both women and men in this sample are interested in co-located RSH services. Current contraceptive use was low among participants. Contraceptive knowledge was lower among men compared to women, and generally low. Providing co-located RSH services may facilitate RSH education, contraceptive method uptake, and promote engagement across various RSH domains.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Associations Between BDNF, CRP, IL-6 and Clinical Symptoms, Cognitive and Personal Performance in Patients With Paranoid Schizophrenia
Authors: Chumakov Egor , Dorofeikova Mariia , Tsyrenova Kristina , Petrova Nataliia
Published: July 2022

Background

Cognitive impairment is among the core dimensions in schizophrenia and is a significant predictor of everyday functioning in people with schizophrenia. Given the enormous burden of schizophrenia, the search for its clinically relevant biomarkers is essential. Researchers have been trying to elucidate factors of cognitive impairment as well as personal performance, but the search is still ongoing. The aim of the study was to search for associations between BDNF, CRP, IL-6 and clinical symptoms, cognitive and personal performance in patients with paranoid schizophrenia.

Methods

A total of 86 patients (53.5% women, mean age 31.1 ± 6.5) with paranoid schizophrenia (F20.0; ICD-10) in remission were examined. Clinical and neuropsychological examination included the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Personal and Social Performance Scale, Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia and the Brief Assessment of Cognitive Function in Schizophrenia. IL-6, BDNF, CRP levels were determined in the patients' blood serum.

Results

Cognitive impairment was revealed in 79.1% of patients and was more profound in patients with higher number of hospitalizations (p = 0.006). The average BDNF levels were 13.38 ± 15.84 ng/ml, CRP concentration was 2.09 ± 2.54 mg/l, and IL-6 levels were 12.14 ± 5.88 pg/ml. There were no differences in biomarker levels or BACS results in patients that had different antipsychotic therapy or differed in the presence of anticholinergic therapy. CRP levels were higher in patients with longer disease duration, lower age of onset, more impaired personal social performance and processing speed. IL-6 was higher in individuals with lower working memory scores. PANSS negative subscale score negatively correlated and PSP score positively correlated with most cognitive domains. A linear regression established that the first episode vs. multiple episodes of schizophrenia could statistically significantly predict personal and social performance and cognition, including speech fluency and planning, as well as CRP levels.

Conclusions

This study continues the search for biomarkers of schizophrenia and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia to improve the reliability of diagnosing the disorder and find new treatment approaches. The role of the number of psychoses experienced (first episode vs. multiple episodes of schizophrenia) in cognition, personal and social performance and inflammation is shown.