bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Crucial Roles of Phospholipids in Aging and Lifespan Regulation
Authors: Dai Yucan , Tang Haiqing , Pang Shanshan
Published: November 2021

Phospholipids are major membrane lipids that consist of lipid bilayers. This basic cellular structure acts as a barrier to protect the cell against various environmental insults and more importantly, enables multiple cellular processes to occur in subcellular compartments. Numerous studies have linked the complexity of membrane lipids to signal transductions, organelle functions, as well as physiological processes, and human diseases. Recently, crucial roles for membrane lipids in the aging process are beginning to emerge. In this study, we summarized current advances in our understanding of the relationship between membrane lipids and aging with an emphasis on phospholipid species. We surveyed how major phospholipid species change with age in different organisms and tissues, and some common patterns of membrane lipid change during aging were proposed. Further, the functions of different phospholipid molecules in regulating healthspan and lifespan, as well as their potential mechanisms of action, were also discussed.
Exogenous Abscisic Acid Priming Modulates Water Relation Responses of Two Tomato Genotypes With Contrasting Endogenous Abscisic Acid Levels to Progressive Soil Drying Under Elevated CO2
Authors: Li Shenglan , Liu Fulai
Published: November 2021

Plants have evolved multiple strategies to survive and adapt when confronting the changing climate, including elevated CO2 concentration (e[CO2]) and intensified drought stress. To explore the role of abscisic acid (ABA) in modulating the response of plant water relation characteristics to progressive drought under ambient (a[CO2], 400 ppm) and e[CO2] (800 ppm) growth environments, two tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) genotypes, Ailsa Craig (AC) and its ABA-deficient mutant (flacca), were grown in pots, treated with or without exogenous ABA, and exposed to progressive soil drying until all plant available water in the pot was depleted. The results showed that exogenous ABA application improved leaf water potential, osmotic potential, and leaf turgor and increased leaf ABA concentrations ([ABA]leaf) in AC and flacca. In both genotypes, exogenous ABA application decreased stomatal pore aperture and stomatal conductance (gs), though these effects were less pronounced in e[CO2]-grown AC and gs of ABA-treated flacca was gradually increased until a soil water threshold after which gs started to decline. In addition, ABA-treated flacca showed a partly restored stomatal drought response even when the accumulation of [ABA]leaf was vanished, implying [ABA]leaf might be not directly responsible for the decreased gs. During soil drying, [ABA]leaf remained higher in e[CO2]-grown plants compared with those under a[CO2], and a high xylem sap ABA concentration was also noticed in the ABA-treated flacca especially under e[CO2], suggesting that e[CO2] might exert an effect on ABA degradation and/or redistribution. Collectively, a fine-tune ABA homeostasis under combined e[CO2] and drought stress allowed plants to optimize leaf gas exchange and plant water relations, yet more detailed research regarding ABA metabolism is still needed to fully explore the role of ABA in mediating plant physiological response to future drier and CO2-enriched climate.
Mitochondria-Targeted SmsHSP24.1 Overexpression Stimulates Early Seedling Vigor and Stress Tolerance by Multi-Pathway Transcriptome-Reprogramming
Authors: Khatun Muslima , Borphukan Bhabesh , Alam Iftekhar , Keya Chaman Ara , Panditi Varakumar , Khan Haseena , Huq Saaimatul , Reddy Malireddy K. , Salimullah Md.
Published: November 2021

Among the diverse array of heat shock proteins across the three domains of life, mitochondria-targeted small heat shock proteins (sHSPs) are evolved in the plant lineage. However, they remained mysterious and understudied. In this study, we reported a systematic study of a novel mitochondria-targeted nuclear sHSP from eggplant (Solanum melongena L.; SmsHSP24.1). Differential expression of SmsHSP24.1 indicated its positive role exerted during stress conditions. Escherichia coli-BL21 cell line overexpressing the SmsHSP24.1 showed excellent thermo-tolerance ability, tolerating up to 52°C. Spectrometry and electron microscopy revealed a multimeric structure of the protein which acted as a molecular chaperone at high temperatures. Overexpression of SmsHSP24.1 significantly enhanced resistance against heat, drought, and salt stresses and showed rapid germination in constitutively overexpressed eggplant lines. RNA-seq analysis reveals an apparent upregulation of a set of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging enzymes of the glutathione (GHS) pathway and mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC). Significant upregulation was also observed in auxin biosynthesis and cell-wall remodeling transcripts in overexpressed lines. qPCR, biochemical and physiological analysis further aligned with the finding of transcriptome analysis and suggested an essential role of SmsHSP24.1 under various stress responses and positive physiological influence on the growth of eggplants. Therefore, this gene has immense potential in engineering stress-resilient crop plants.
Physiological and Transcriptomic Responses to Nitrogen Deficiency in Neolamarckia cadamba
Authors: Lu Lu , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Lu , Yi Na , Liu Yi , Qaseem Mirza Faisal , Li Huiling , Wu Ai-Min
Published: November 2021

Nitrogen (N) is one of the abundant and essential elements for plant growth and development, and N deficiency (ND) affects plants at both physiological and transcriptomic levels. Neolamarckia cadamba is a fast-growing woody plant from the Rubiaceae family. However, the physiological and molecular impacts of ND on this species have not been well investigated. Here, we studied how N. cadamba responds to ND under hydroponic conditions. In a physiological aspect, ND led to a reduction in biomass, chlorophyll content, and photosynthetic capacity. ND also impaired the assimilation of N as the activities of glutamine synthetase (GS) and nitrate reductase (NR) were decreased in the root. Interestingly, the lignin content of stem increased progressively during the ND stress. The main transcription factors, the transcription factors that are important to N regulation has been found to be upregulated, including Nodule inception-like protein 7 (NLP7), TGACG motif-binding factor 1 (TGA1), basic helix-loop-helix protein 45 (BHLH45), NAM, ATAF1,2, CUC2 (NAC) transcription factor 43 (NAC43), and basic leucine zipper pattern 44 (bZIP44). The expression of N transporters, such as nitrate transporter 2.4 (NRT2.4), ammonium transporter 3 (AMT3), and amino acid transporter protein 3 (AAP3), was also upregulated. In addition, phosphorus- and calcium-related genes such as phosphate starvation response 2 (PHR2) and cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel 15 (CNGC15) were expressed more abundantly in response to ND stress. Our results reveal the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which woody plants respond to ND.
Integrated Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Analysis Reveal Key Metabolism Pathways Contributing to Cold Tolerance in Peanut
Authors: Wang Xin , Liu Yue , Han Zhongkui , Chen Yuning , Huai Dongxin , Kang Yanping , Wang Zhihui , Yan Liying , Jiang Huifang , Lei Yong , Liao Boshou
Published: November 2021

Low temperature (non-freezing) is one of the major limiting factors in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) growth, yield, and geographic distribution. Due to the complexity of cold-resistance trait in peanut, the molecular mechanism of cold tolerance and related gene networks were largely unknown. In this study, metabolomic analysis of two peanut cultivars subjected to chilling stress obtained a set of cold-responsive metabolites, including several carbohydrates and polyamines. These substances showed a higher accumulation pattern in cold-tolerant variety SLH than cold-susceptible variety ZH12 under cold stress, indicating their importance in protecting peanut from chilling injuries. In addition, 3,620 cold tolerance genes (CTGs) were identified by transcriptome sequencing, and the CTGs were most significantly enriched in the “phenylpropanoid biosynthesis” pathway. Two vital modules and several novel hub genes were obtained by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Several key genes involved in soluble sugar, polyamine, and G-lignin biosynthetic pathways were substantially higher and/or responded more quickly in SLH (cold tolerant) than ZH12 (cold susceptible) under low temperature, suggesting they might be crucial contributors during the adaptation of peanut to low temperature. These findings will not only provide valuable resources for study of cold resistance in peanut but also lay a foundation for genetic modification of cold regulators to enhance stress tolerance in crops.
The Mixed Addition of Biochar and Nitrogen Improves Soil Properties and Microbial Structure of Moderate–Severe Degraded Alpine Grassland in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Li Jinsheng , Zhao Yinquan , Shao Xinqing , Huang Ding , Shang Jianying , Li Hui , He Yixuan , Liu Kesi
Published: November 2021

The degradation of the grassland system has severely threatened the safety of the ecological environment and animal husbandry. The supplement of key substances lost due to degradation is widely used to accelerate the restoration of the degraded grassland ecosystem. In this study, we investigated the effects of biochar and nitrogen addition on soil properties and microorganisms of degraded alpine grassland. The experimental treatments consisted of the control without any addition, only nitrogen addition (10 gN/m2), only biochar addition (4.00 kg/m2 biochar), and the mixed addition of biochar and nitrogen (4.00 kg/m2 biochar and 10 gN/m2 nitrogen, respectively). Adding N alone did not significantly change the pH, total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), microbial biomass (MB), and the composition proportion of microbes of the soil, but increased the contents of soil water content (SWC), NH4+-N, NO3–-N, available phosphorus (AP), and the biomass of bacteria and fungi. The addition of biochar or the mixture of biochar and nitrogen increased the contents of pH, TOC, TN, MB, SWC, NH4+-N, NO3–-N, AP, bacteria, and fungi in the soil and changed the structure of the soil microbial community. The increasing intensity of AP, bacteria, and fungi under the addition of biochar or the mixture of biochar and nitrogen was significantly greater than that under N addition alone. These results indicated that the separated addition of nitrogen and biochar and the mixed addition of biochar and nitrogen all improved the soil condition of the moderate–severe degraded alpine grassland, but the mixed addition of biochar and nitrogen could be a better strategy to remediate the degraded alpine grassland.
Key Metabolite Differences Between Korean Pine (Pinus koraiensis) Seeds With Primary Physiological Dormancy and No-Dormancy
Authors: Song Yuan , Gao Xiaoye , Wu Yunjie
Published: November 2021

Pinus Koraiensis seeds have physiological dormancy. Cold stratification releases seed dormancy. The changes in metabolite profiles of dormant seeds and cold stratified seeds during shorter incubation time in a favorable condition for seed germination have been studied. However, a more-long-term detection of the changes in metabolites in dormant seeds can identify the real metabolic pathways responsible for dormancy. Metabolite composition was investigated in embryo and megagametophyte of primary physiological dormant seeds (DS) of P. Koraiensis collected at 0, 1, 2, 4, and 6 weeks of incubation and of non-primary physiological dormant seeds (NDS) sampled at 0 and 1 week of incubation, seed coat rupture stage, and radicle protrusion stage. Embryos contained higher levels of most metabolites than megagametophyte. Strong accumulation of most metabolites in DS occurred at 1 and 4 weeks of incubation. A larger reduction in the relative levels of most phosphorylated sugars and amino acids in NDS was found between 1-week-incubation and seed coat rupture stage. The relative levels of metabolites involved in carbohydrate metabolism, especially the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, were higher in the embryos of 4-week-incubated DS, but the relative contents of intermediate metabolites of most amino acid metabolism were lower compared to 1-week-incubated NDS. We suggested that the disturbed carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid metabolism in the embryos of DS after 4 weeks of incubation maybe related to primary dormancy. Our study provides information for a better understanding of the mechanism of seed dormancy.
The Economics Spectrum Drives Root Trait Strategies in Mediterranean Vegetation
Authors: de la Riva Enrique G. , Querejeta José Ignacio , Villar Rafael , Pérez-Ramos Ignacio M. , Marañón Teodoro , Galán Díaz Javier , de Tomás Marín Sergio , Prieto Iván
Published: November 2021

Extensive research efforts are devoted to understand fine root trait variation and to confirm the existence of a belowground root economics spectrum (RES) from acquisitive to conservative root strategies that is analogous to the leaf economics spectrum (LES). The economics spectrum implies a trade-off between maximizing resource acquisition and productivity or maximizing resource conservation and longevity; however, this theoretical framework still remains controversial for roots. We compiled a database of 320 Mediterranean woody and herbaceous species to critically assess if the classic economics spectrum theory can be broadly extended to roots. Fine roots displayed a wide diversity of forms and properties in Mediterranean vegetation, resulting in a multidimensional trait space. The main trend of variation in this multidimensional root space is analogous to the main axis of LES, while the second trend of variation is partially determined by an anatomical trade-off between tissue density and diameter. Specific root area (SRA) is the main trait explaining species distribution along the RES, regardless of the selected traits. We advocate for the need to unify and standardize the criteria and approaches used within the economics framework between leaves and roots, for the sake of theoretical consistency.
An Efficient Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-Associated Protein 9 Mutagenesis System for Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis)
Authors: Yeap Wan-Chin , Norkhairunnisa Che Mohd Khan  , Norfadzilah Jamalludin  , Muad Muhammad Rashdan , Appleton David Ross , Harikrishna Kulaveerasingam
Published: November 2021

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system has emerged as a powerful tool for the precise editing of plant genomes for crop improvement. Rapid in vitro methods for the determination of guide RNA (gRNA) cleavage efficiency and an efficient DNA delivery system is essential for gene editing. However, we lack an efficient gene-editing system for palm species. In this study, we described the development of a transient oil palm protoplast assay to rapidly evaluate the cleavage efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis and the generation of stable transformed oil palms using biolistic particle bombardment in immature embryos. Using the phytoene desaturase (EgPDS) gene, we found cleavage frequency of up to 25.49% in electro-transfected protoplast, which enables the production of transgenic oil palm shoots exhibiting chimeric albino phenotypes as a result of DNA insertions, deletions (InDels), and nucleotide substitutions, with a mutation efficiency of 62.5–83.33%. We further validated the mutagenesis efficiency and specificity of the CRISPR/Cas9 system in oil palm by targeting the brassinosteroid-insensitive 1 (EgBRI1) gene, which resulted in nucleotide substitutions in EgBRI1 with premature necrosis phenotype in oil palm transgenic shoots and stunted phenotype resulting from DNA InDels. Taken together, our results showed that effective and efficient editing of genes using the CRISPR/Cas9 system can be achieved in oil palm by optimizing the selection of efficient gRNA and DNA delivery methods. This newly designed strategy will enable new routes for the genetic improvement in oil palm and related species.
An F-Actin Mega-Cable Is Associated With the Migration of the Sperm Nucleus During the Fertilization of the Polarity-Inverted Central Cell of Agave inaequidens
Authors: González-Gutiérrez Alejandra G. , Gutiérrez-Mora Antonia , Verdín Jorge , Rodríguez-Garay Benjamín
Published: November 2021

Asparagaceae’s large embryo sacs display a central cell nucleus polarized toward the chalaza, which means the sperm nucleus that fuses with it during double fertilization migrates an atypical long distance before karyogamy. Because of the size and inverted polarity of the central cell in Asparagaceae, we hypothesize that the second fertilization process is supported by an F-actin machinery different from the short-range F-actin structures observed in Arabidopsis and other plant models. Here, we analyzed the F-actin dynamics of Agave inaequidens, a classical Asparagaceae, before, during, and after the central cell fertilization. Several parallel F-actin cables, spanning from the central cell nucleus to the micropylar pole, and enclosing the vacuole, were observed. As fertilization progressed, a thick F-actin mega-cable traversing the vacuole appeared, connecting the central cell nucleus with the micropylar pole near the egg cell. This mega-cable wrapped the sperm nucleus in transit to fuse with the central cell nucleus. Once karyogamy finished, and the endosperm started to develop, the mega-cable disassembled, but new F-actin structures formed. These observations suggest that Asparagaceae, and probably other plant species with similar embryo sacs, evolved an F-actin machinery specifically adapted to support the migration of the fertilizing sperm nucleus within a large-sized and polarity-inverted central cell.
Historical Dynamics of Semi-Humid Evergreen Forests in the Southeast Himalaya Biodiversity Hotspot: A Case Study of the Quercus franchetii Complex (Fagaceae)
Authors: Zheng Si-Si , Jiang Xiao-Long , Huang Qing-Jun , Deng Min
Published: November 2021

The Oligocene and Miocene are key periods in the formation of the modern topography and flora of East Asian and Indo-China. However, it is unclear how geological and climatic factors contributed to the high endemism and species richness of this region. TheQuercus franchetiicomplex is widespread in the southeast Himalaya fringe and northern Indo-China with a long evolutionary history. It provides a unique proxy for studying the diversity pattern of evergreen woody lineages in this region since the Oligocene. In this study, we combined chloroplast (cpDNA) sequences, nuclear microsatellite loci (nSSRs), and species distribution modeling (SDM) to investigate the impacts of geological events on genetic diversity of theQ. franchetiicomplex. The results showed that the initialcpDNA haplotype divergence was estimated to occur during the middle Oligocene (30.7 Ma), which might have been raised by the tectonic activity at this episode to the Miocene. The nSSR results revealed two major groups of populations, the central Yunnan-Guizhou plateau (YGP) group and the peripheral distribution group whenK= 2, in responding to the rapid YGP uplift during the late Miocene, which restricted gene flow between the populations in core and marginal areas. SDM analysis indicated that the distribution ranges of theQ. franchetiicomplex expanded northwards after the last glacial maximum, but the core distribution range in YGP was stable. Our results showed that the divergence ofQ. franchetiicomplex is rooted in the mid-Oligocene. The early geological events during the Oligocene, and the late Miocene may play key roles to restrict seed-mediated gene flow among regions, but the pollen-mediated gene flow was less impacted. The uplifts of the YGP and the climate since LGM subsequently boosted the divergence of the populations in core and marginal areas.
Social Adaptation in Context: The Differential Role of Religiosity and Self-Esteem in Vulnerable vs. Non-vulnerable Populations – A Registered Report Study
Authors: Neely-Prado Alejandra , van Elk Michiel , Navarrete Gorka , Hola Fernanda , Huepe David
Published: November 2021

There is evidence that religiosity and self-esteem are positively related, while self-esteem and religiosity in turn predict successful social adaptation. Moreover, self-esteem has been shown to be directly related to social adaptation in vulnerable contexts. In this registered report study, we tested the hypothesis that religiosity has a positive influence on social adaptation for people living in vulnerable contexts and that self-esteem is a mediator of this relationship. Evidence from this study indicates that neither there is any effect of religiosity on social adaptation nor on self-esteem, independent of whether people live in vulnerable contexts or not.
How to Expand and Fill the Self in Organizations: The Role of Interpersonal Processes in the Employee Organizational Identity Construction
Authors: Sun Junping , Song Yu , Yu Guangtao
Published: November 2021

In the era of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA), the fluidity of organizations and the variability of individual work gradually replace the traditional stability and continuity. The question of how to connect employees and organizations has long intrigued researchers and practitioners. Employee organizational identity is the stable force that binds employees to organizations. Drawing on social identity theory, we argue the role of interpersonal processes in the employee organizational identity construction. We suggest that an employee’s relationship-building behaviors can promote employee organizational identity through the connected self. The indirect effect is stronger for employees who make more social comparisons because they are more sensitive to social influence. We collected data through questionnaires of 333 employees using a two-wave research design in China. The results indicate that an employee’s relationship-building behaviors enhance employee organizational identity. The connected self fully mediates the positive relationship between relationship-building and employee organizational identity. The outcomes also show that the positive effect of relationship-building toward connected self is intensified, when an employee engages in more social comparisons. The findings imply that interpersonal processes play an important role in the employee organizational identity construction. Then, the theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Constructing a Teaching Presence Measurement Framework Based on the Community of Inquiry Theory
Authors: Wang Yang , Zhao Li , Shen Shusheng , Chen Wenli
Published: November 2021

Given that there is no consensus on a framework for measuring presence in online teaching, this paper focuses on the construction of a reliable measurement framework of teaching presence based on the Community of Inquiry theory. In this study, 408 questionnaires were collected from college students who had online learning experience. Item analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis were used to analyze the results, which showed that the five-factor framework is in good agreement with the data. The confirmatory factor analysis also demonstrated a good model fit of the correlated five-factor teaching presence framework. Therefore, the teaching presence measurement framework consisting of design and organization, discourse facilitation, direct instruction, assessment, and technological support, can serve as an effective tool to support teaching presence measurement and to provide guidance for instructors’ online teaching.
The Influence of Facial Asymmetry on Genuineness Judgment
Authors: Delor Bérénice , D’Hondt Fabien , Philippot Pierre
Published: November 2021

This study investigates how asymmetry, expressed emotion, and sex of the expresser impact the perception of emotional facial expressions (EFEs) in terms of perceived genuineness. Thirty-five undergraduate women completed a task using chimeric stimuli with artificial human faces. They were required to judge whether the expressed emotion was genuinely felt. The results revealed that (a) symmetrical faces are judged as more genuine than asymmetrical faces and (b) EFEs’ decoding is modulated by complex interplays between emotion and sex of the expresser.
Theory of Mind in Pre-school Aged Children: Influence of Maternal Depression and Infants’ Self-Comforting Behavior
Authors: Nonnenmacher Nora , Müller Mitho , Taczkowski Joana , Zietlow Anna-Lena , Sodian Beate , Reck Corinna
Published: November 2021

A milestone of child development is theory of mind (ToM): the ability to attribute mental states, especially beliefs and desires, to other persons and to understand that their behavior is guided by mental states. The learning process about the mental world also takes place in social communication and interaction, beginning in infancy. Infancy is assumed to be a sensitive period for the development of social skills through interaction. Due to limited self-regulatory skills, infants depend on sensitive behavior of their caregivers to regulate affective states and physiological arousal, and in turn, mutually regulated affects allow the infant to gradually acquire the capability to self-regulate negative affective states. Effective and adequate affect regulation is an important prerequisite for environmental interaction and thus for the development of socio-emotional skills. The present study investigated the relation of self-regulatory abilities in infancy and later ToM in pre-school aged children of clinically depressed mothers and healthy controls. The sample comprised of N = 55 mother–child dyads, n = 22 diagnosed with postpartum or lifetime depression according to DSM-IV and n = 33 healthy controls. Mother–infant-interaction was videotaped during the Face-to-Face Still-Face paradigm. At 3 and 42 months postpartum mothers were interviewed with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I) to evaluate maternal psychopathological status according to DSM-IV. At the age of M = 4.0 years, children’s ToM abilities were assessed using content-false-belief and location-false-belief tasks. The results of this study show that contrary to our hypotheses, maternal depression did not impair the development of children’s ToM-abilities per se. Rather, an interaction effect highlights the role of infant’s self-comforting behavior during mother–infant interaction in infancy (3 months postpartum) for ToM-development at pre-school age assessed with the Maxi-task; this association was distinct for female in comparison to male children. The results of this longitudinal study shed light on the discussion, how maternal depression influences child development and point in the direction that self-comforting behaviors in infancy can also be seen as a resource.
Youth in Residential Care: A Cross-Sectional Mediation Analysis of Youth’s Perceptions of Their Social Images, Self-Representations, and Adjustment Outcomes
Authors: Calheiros Maria Manuela , Silva Carla Sofia , Patrício Joana Nunes , Carvalho Helena
Published: November 2021

Individuals’ perceptions of their social images [i.e., meta-representations (MR)] and perceived stereotyping threat create involuntary stress responses that may affect important outcomes, such as self-esteem, academic achievement, and mental health. This study aimed to (1) analyze the indirect associations between residential care youth’s MR and their psychological adjustment (i.e., externalizing and internalizing problems) through their self-representations (SR) and (2) test the moderating role of youth’s age and residential unit size in those associations. A sample of 926 youth aged between 12 and 25years old filled out self-report questionnaires regarding their representations about how people in general perceive them (i.e., MR) and their SR. Residential care professionals filled in the socio-demographic questionnaires and the Child Behavior Checklist. Data were analyzed through multiple mediation models and moderated mediation models. Results showed that (1) youth’s behavioral MR were indirectly associated with higher internalizing and externalizing behavior through higher levels of behavioral SR and (2) youth’s emotional MR were associated with higher internalizing problems through higher emotional SR, but also with lower internalizing problems through lower levels of behavioral SR. These results emphasize the importance of stimulating positive SR, by showing that they can be a protective factor for youth in residential care.
Examining Psychedelic-Induced Changes in Social Functioning and Connectedness in a Naturalistic Online Sample Using the Five-Factor Model of Personality
Authors: Weiss Brandon , Nygart Victoria , Pommerencke Lis Marie , Carhart-Harris Robin L. , Erritzoe David
Published: November 2021

The present study examines prospective changes in personality traits relevant to social functioning as well as perceived social connectedness in relation to the naturalistic use of psychedelic compounds in an online volunteer sample. The study also examined the degree to which demographic characteristics, social setting, baseline personality, and acute subjective factors (e.g., emotional breakthrough experiences) influenced trajectories of personality and perceived social connectedness. Participants recruited online completed self-report measures of personality and social connectedness at three timepoints (baseline, 2weeks post-experience, 4weeks post-experience). Linear mixed models were used to examine changes in outcomes and the moderation of these outcomes by covariates. The most substantive changes were reductions in the personality domains Neuroticism, and increases in Agreeableness and social connectedness. Notably, reductions in Neuroticism and increases in Agreeableness covaried over time, which may be suggestive of common processes involving emotion regulation. Preliminary evidence was found for a specific effect on a component of Agreeableness involving a critical and quarrelsome interpersonal style. Although moderation by demographic characteristics, social setting, baseline personality, and acute factors generally found limited support, baseline standing on Neuroticism, perspective taking, and social connectedness showed tentative signs of amplifying adaptive effects on each trait, respectively. Our findings hold implications for the potential use of psychedelics for treating interpersonal elements of personality pathology as well as loneliness.
Numerical Feedback Roundness Affects the Choice of the Self vs. Others as a Reference Point
Authors: Shoham Meyrav , Munichor Nira
Published: November 2021

People can use social or personal information as a reference point against which they compare their performance. While previous research has shown that reference point choice can be affected by individual characteristics, situational factors, and goals, we suggest that properties of the performance feedback itself can also play a role in this choice. We focus on the effects of round vs. precise numerical feedback on reference point preferences. In three studies, we show that people are more likely to use themselves as a reference point to evaluate their performance following a feedback in the form of a round score (e.g., a score of 70 in a task) and to use others as a reference point following a precise score (e.g., a score of 71). Study 1 shows decreased interest in comparisons with others following round rather than precise feedback. Study 2 shows that round (vs. precise) feedback also increases actual choice of the self (vs. others) as a reference point. Study 3 demonstrates that the effect of the numerical feedback on reference point preferences extends to the choice of a benchmark for future comparisons. We discuss the implications of our results for the literature and practice, including how this can be used to encourage desirable behaviors.
The Emerging Paradigm of Leadership for Future: The Use of Authentic Leadership to Lead Innovation in VUCA Environment
Authors: Khan Muhammad Mumtaz , Ahmed Syed Saad , Khan Essa
Published: November 2021

This study explicated the mediating role of leader–member exchange (LMX) and identification with the leader linking authentic leadership and innovative work behavior. The data were collected from the three sectors of the service industry. The final sample size obtained was 347. The data were collected both through the Google form and pen-filled questionnaires. SPSS was used to compute demographic profiles and conduct a hierarchal regression, while Smart-PLS was used for evaluating the constructs for their psychometric properties and testing the structural relations as proposed in the model. This study found LMX and identification with the leader to mediate between authentic leadership and the innovative work behavior of the employees.
Positive Youth Development in the Context of Climate Change: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pereira Teresa , Freire Teresa
Published: November 2021

Climate change has been acknowledged as one of the most significant current threats for younger generations. However, few studies have focused on climate change impacts on youth and how they can be supported. The purpose of this systematic review is to emphasize that a developmental perspective is fundamental within the interdisciplinary studies concerning climate change. Specifically, we focus our research on how the Positive Youth Development framework may inform future approaches to promote adolescents' and young adults' well-being and engagement in the context of climate change. A systematic review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The search comprised two databases, and a total of 13 articles were finally considered eligible for review. Data were analyzed using a narrative method. The results show that the Positive Youth Development theory is not yet directly embedded in existing studies concerning adolescents and young adults in the context of climate change, but some of its principles were identified. Examples are provided of how Positive Youth Development characteristics and constructs can enhance future research, practice, and policies. We highlight this framework as an innovative and promising approach in the context of climate change.
Personalizing the BioPsychoSocial Approach: “Add-Ons” and “Add-Ins” in Generalist Practice
Authors: Ventres William B. , Frankel Richard M.
Published: November 2021

Generalist practitioners often find interacting with patients deeply satisfying and joyful; they also experience encounters that are challenging and complex. In both cases, they must be aware of the many issues that affect the processes and outcomes of patient care. Although using the BioPsychoSocial approach is an important, time-tested framework for cultivating one's awareness of patients' presenting concerns, recent developments suggest that additional frames of reference may enhance communication and relationships with patients. In this article, we describe several additions to the BioPsychoSocial approach, considerations we call “add-ons” and “add-ins”. We invite generalist practitioners and, indeed, all health care practitioners, to consider how they can improve their ongoing care of patients by personalizing these and other additions in their day-to-day work with patients.
A Review on P300 in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Raggi Alberto , Lanza Giuseppe , Ferri Raffaele
Published: November 2021

Neuropsychological studies indicate the presence of cognitive changes in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Indeed, OCD may be included among the dysfunctions of the frontal lobes and their connections with the limbic system, associative cortex, and basal ganglia. P300 is a positive component of the human event-related potential (ERP); it is associated with processes of encoding, identification, and categorization constituting, as a whole, the superior cortical function of information processing. Thus, P300 explores several areas that are implicated in OCD pathophysiology. Our aim is to review all relevant studies on the P300 component of the human ERP in order to recognize any significant central nervous system (CNS) correlate of cognitive dysfunction in OCD. A PubMed-based literature search resulted in 35 articles assessing P300 in OCD and reporting neurophysiological correlates of response inhibition, cortical hyperarousal, and over-focused attention. A decreased P300 amplitude was reported in both adult and pediatric patients, with a trend toward normalization after pharmacological treatment. Source localization studies disclosed an association between P300 abnormalities and the functioning of brain regions involved in the pathophysiology of OCD. Moreover, studies converge on the evidence of neurophysiological dysfunction in the frontal areas with impairment of the normal inhibitory processes in OCD. At least some of these electrophysiological correlates might reflect the obsessive thoughts and compulsions that characterize this disorder. These findings may also support cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches on over-focused attention and inflexibility of compulsive behaviors, which should be associated to pharmacological treatment in these patients.
Affective Neuroscience Contributions to the Treatment of Addiction: The Role of Social Instincts, Pleasure and SEEKING
Authors: Flores Mosri Daniela
Published: November 2021

Addiction is an illness prevalent in the worldwide population that entails multiple health risks. Because of the nature of addictive disorders, users of drugs seldom look for treatment and when they do, availability can be difficult to access. Permanence in treatment and its outcomes vary from case to case. Most models work from a multidisciplinary approach that tackles several dimensions of addictive disorders. However, the different etiological factors claim for a personalized treatment to enhance opportunities for better results. Problems in relationships with others play an important role in the etiology and the recovery process of addiction. This paper focuses on the social-environmental causes of addiction based on an affective neuroscience approach that attempts to integrate the interplay between social instincts, pleasure, and the SEEKING system in addiction. To advance toward better treatment strategies, it is pertinent to understand the limitations of the current multidisciplinary models. Acknowledging the social nature of the human brain may help to identify the quality of different types of traumatic early life experiences in drug users and how to address them in what may become a neuropsychoanalytic treatment of addiction.
Resilience, Cardiological Outcome, and Their Correlations With Anxious-Depressive Symptoms and Quality of Life in Patients With an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: Isella Celeste , Gasparini Alessandra , Lucca Giulia , Ielmini Marta , Caselli Ivano , Poloni Nicola , Dajelli Ermolli Carlo , Caravati Fabrizio , Castiglioni Battistina , De Ponti Roberto , Callegari Camilla
Published: November 2021

Background: Resilience is proven as a protective factor against the development of psychiatric disorders, and it has gained clinical relevance in the development and progression of cardiovascular pathology. The authors performed a longitudinal study on patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) with the primary aim to highlight the possible existence of a correlation between individual resilience capacity, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and quality of life in terms of outcomes. The secondary aim was to analyze the differences between patients with major cardiac events in the follow-up and patients without cardiac events with respect to the previous variables.

Materials and Methods: A total of 80 patients enrolled in the Cardiology Unit were evaluated at T0 and during the follow-up through the following scales: the 14-item Resilience Scale (RS-14), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief Version (WHOQOL-Bref).

Results: A significant linear correlation between resilience and all the areas of quality of life at T0, T1, and T2 emerged. A negative correlation between resilience and anxiety and depressive symptoms emerged, as well as between depression and anxiety and quality of life. Patients with cardiac events during the follow up have shown a worse quality of life and the onset of anxiety-depressive symptoms over time, without changes to the resilience scores. Patients without cardiac events showed an increasing trend in resilience scores.

Discussion: Given the speed and simplicity of use of the RS-14 scale, it seems promising to further investigate the real clinical usefulness of this instrument in the cardiology field.
Factors That Influence Adherence to Medication in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD)
Authors: Halling Tim , Akkermann Steffen , Löffler Friederike , Groh Adrian , Heitland Ivo , Haefeli Walter Emil , Bauersachs Johann , Kahl Kai G. , Westhoff-Bleck Mechthild
Published: November 2021

Objective:Innovative operative and interventional procedures have improved survival in congenital heart disease (CHD), and today more than 90% of these children reach adulthood. Consequently, adherence and psychosocial issues are becoming increasingly important because non-adherence to treatment recommendations worsens morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to identify factors modifying adherence to medication in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD).

Methods:This cross-sectional study included 451 outpatients (female 47.9%, average age ± SD: 37.9 ± 12 years) from the ACHD department, who completed a questionnaire assessing medication non-adherence and individual barriers to treatment. Further assessments included psychological well-being (Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale; HADS), childhood traumatization, sociodemographic, and clinical data. Binary logistic regression analysis calculated the impact of these factors on drug adherence.

Results:Of the 451 patients 162 participants (35.9%) reported to be non-adherent. In univariate analysis non-adherence to treatment was associated with smoking (P= < 0.001) and internet addiction (P= 0.005). Further factors negatively influencing adherence were the presence of depressive symptoms (P= 0.002), anxiety (P= 0.004), and childhood traumatization (p= 0.002). Factors positively associated with adherence were older age (P= 0.003) and more advanced heart disease as indicated by NYHA class (P= 0.01), elevated NT-proBNP (P= 0.02), device therapy (P= 0.002) and intermittent arrhythmias (P= 0.01). In multivariate analysis especially psychopathological factors such as depression (P= 0.009), anxiety (P= 0.032) and childhood traumatization (P= 0.006) predicted non-adherence.

Conclusion:Adherence is a critical issue in the long-term management of ACHD. Identifying modifiable factors that worsen adherence offers the opportunity for targeted interventions. Depressive symptoms, anxiety, and adverse childhood experiences are amenable to psychosocial interventions, as well as cigarette smoking. Our study suggests that a multimodal and interdisciplinary treatment concept for the long-term management of adults with congenital heart disease could be beneficial. Whether it will further improve morbidity and mortality, should be assessed in prospective interventions.
The Associations Between Access to Recreational Facilities and Adherence to the American Heart Association's Physical Activity Guidelines in US Adults
Authors: Andrade Larissa , Geffin Ryan , Maguire Mark , Rodriguez Pura , Castro Grettel , Alkhatib Ahmad , Barengo Noël C.
Published: November 2021

Physical activity decreases the risk of long-term health consequences including cardiac diseases. According to the American Health Association (AHA), adults should perform at least 75 min of vigorous physical activity (PA) or 150 min of moderate PA per week to impact long-term health. Results of previous studies are varied and have yet to integrate perceived access to facilities with AHA PA guidelines. We investigated whether access to free or low-cost recreational facilities was associated with meeting the AHA PA guidelines.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study utilized data extracted from the Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE) database collected in 2017 (n = 1,750). The main exposure variable was access to free or low-cost recreational facilities. The main outcome variable was meeting the AHA guidelines of 150 min moderate PA or 75 min vigorous PA per week. Covariates included age, sex, level of education, overall health, BMI, ethnicity, hours of work per week, income, and time living at current address. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression analysis were used to calculate measures of odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results: Of the 1,750 included participants, 61.7% (n = 1,079) reported to have access to recreational facilities. Of those with access to facilities, 69.9% met AHA PA guidelines while 30.4% did not. After adjusting for covariates, participants who reported access to recreational facilities were 42% more likely to meet AHA PA guidelines compared with participants who did not (adjusted OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.14–1.76). Secondary results suggest that healthier individuals were more likely to have met AHA PA guidelines.

Conclusions: Having access to free or low-cost recreational facilities such as parks, walking trails, bike paths and courts was associated with meeting the AHA PA guidelines. Increasing prevalence and awareness of neighborhood recreational facilities could assist in access to these facilities and increase the ability of individuals to meet AHA PA guidelines. Future research should determine which types of recreational facilities impact physical activity strongest and discover methods of increasing their awareness.
Determinants of Chronic Biological Stress, Measured as Hair Cortisol Concentration, in a General Population of Adolescents: From Individual and Household Characteristics to Neighborhood Urbanicity
Authors: Verheyen Veerle J. , Remy Sylvie , Govarts Eva , Colles Ann , Koppen Gudrun , Martin Laura Rodriguez , Nielsen Flemming , Bruckers Liesbeth , Bijnens Esmée M. , Vos Stijn , Morrens Bert , Coertjens Dries , Loots Ilse , De Decker Annelies , Franken Carmen , Den Hond Elly , Nelen Vera , De Henauw Stefaan , Covaci Adrian , Van Larebeke Nicolas , Teughels Caroline , Nawrot Tim S. , Schoeters Greet
Published: November 2021

Chronic biological stress may adversely affect adolescents' physical and mental health, but insight in the personal and environmental factors that determine chronic stress is limited. We measured 3-month cumulative hair cortisol concentration (HCC) in 419 adolescents, participating in the Flemish Environment and Health Study. Adolescents' health and lifestyle characteristics, household and neighborhood socio-economic status as well as neighborhood urbanicity were assessed as potential determinants of HCC, using multiple linear regression models. We additionally explored heterogeneity of our results by sex. HCC were significantly higher in boys from densely populated neighborhoods, the association was not significant in girls. Accordingly, boys living outside cities had significantly lower HCC than boys, living in cities. HCC was significantly lower in adolescents with an optimal vitality, a measure of a positive mental health status. In adolescent girls, menarcheal status (pre-/postmenarche) was a significant determinant of HCC. Our findings are the first to suggest that residential urbanicity may have an impact on chronic biological stress in a general population of adolescent boys.