bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of multiple variables on bipedal context in wild chimpanzees: implications for the evolution of bipedality in hominins
Authors: Sarringhaus Lauren , Srivastava Ryan , MacLatchy Laura
Published: March 2024

Investigations into the role of selection in the origin of human bipedalism using ape models have relied heavily on behavioral frequency data. However, analysis of video of wild apes has the advantage of capturing the details of the entirety of each rare, brief bipedal bout witnessed, not just the moment detected in observational studies. We used video to explore the behavioral context and effects of several variables on bipedalism across all ages in wild forest-dwelling chimpanzees from Ngogo, Uganda. We found, as in earlier studies, that adult chimpanzees used bipedalism in the context of foraging; however, unlike earlier studies, we found that while foraging was the predominant behavioral context during arboreal bipedalism, terrestrial bipedalism was more varied in contextual composition. We also found that these different behavioral contexts of bipedalism were associated with different variables. Specifically, foraging was associated with arboreality, hand assistance, and adulthood; antagonism was associated with adulthood, locomotion, and males; play was associated with terrestriality and subadulthood; and travel was associated with locomotion and females. Given that several variables influence bipedalism across multiple behavioral contexts in chimpanzees, it is likely that the early evolution of human bipedalism occurred under the influence of numerous factors. This exploratory study thus suggests that more comprehensive models should be used when reconstructing the transition to bipedalism from the Last Common Ancestor of humans and chimpanzees.
Five new species of Terebellides (Annelida, Polychaeta, Trichobranchidae) from Papua New Guinea (Bismarck and Solomon seas)
Authors: Lavesque Nicolas , Nogueira João M. M. , Daffe Guillemine , Hutchings Pat
Published: March 2024

Five new species of Terebellides are described from coastal and deep waters of Papua New Guinea, using both morphology and molecular tools (for four species). Terebellides elenae n. sp. is characterized by the absence of both a glandular lateral region on TC3 and papillae on margins of the branchial lamellae and by the presence of partially fused branchial lobes with conspicuous fifth lobe and dorsal rounded projections until TC6. Terebellides fauchaldi n. sp. has a very large glandular lateral region on the third thoracic chaetiger (TC3), a fifth branchial lobe and partially fused branchial lobes, and conspicuous dorsal rounded projections on TC2–6. Terebellides madeep n. sp. is characterized by a thin glandular region on TC3 and by four free branchial lobes. Terebellides oculata n. sp. is one of the only two species in the world to have eyespots. Finally, T. papillosa n. sp. has geniculate chaetae on TC6 and TC7 and bears a large number of papillae. A majority-rule consensus tree using the 16S gene and an identification key for all Terebellides species described from the Central Indo-Pacific region are provided.
Suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 expression and its regulation in relation to inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Tinè Mariaenrica , Balestro Elisabetta , Carpi Sara , Neri Tommaso , Biondini Davide , Conti Maria , Casara Alvise , Bernardinello Nicol , Cocconcelli Elisabetta , Turato Graziella , Baraldo Simonetta , Celi Alessandro , Spagnolo Paolo , Cosio Manuel G. , Saetta Marina , Bazzan Erica
Published: March 2024

Background

The family of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling (SOCS) acts as a controller of the duration and intensity of cytokine function by negatively regulating the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. SOCS’ role in inflammatory diseases in animal models is well demonstrated. However, its role in the development of human disease is still under investigation. SOCS3 plays an important role in tumor development where its downregulation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various solid tumors such as triple-negative breast cancer.

Aim

The aim of this work was to study (1) the expression of SOCS3 in smokers’ lungs and its relation to the degree of inflammation and (2) SOCS3 regulation by microRNA (miRNA) in alveolar-macrophage (AM)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL).

Methods

Group A: 35 smokers’ [19 with COPD (SC) and 16 without COPD (S)] and 9 nonsmokers (NS); SOCS3, TNFα in AM, and CD8+ T cells were quantified by immunohistochemistry, in lung tissue. Group B: additional 9 SC, 11 S, and 5 NS; AM-EVs expressing SOCS3 (CD14+SOCS3+) and SOCS3 suppressors miRNA-19a-3p and 221-3p in EVs were quantified by flow cytometry and PCR, in BAL.

Results

The percentage of SOCS3+ AM was higher in SC [68 (6.6–99)%] and S [48 (8–100)%] than in NS [9.6 (1.9–61)%; p = 0.002; p = 0.03] and correlated with % of TNFα+AM (r = 0.48; p = 0.0009) and CD8+ T cells (r = 0.44; p = 0.0029). In BAL, the CD14+SOCS3+ EVs/μL were increased in SC [33 (21–74)] compared to S [16 (8–37); p = 0.03] and NS [9 (7–21); p = 0.003]. Conversely, miRNA-19a-3p and miRNA-221-3p expression were increased in S when compared to SC [19 (2–53) vs. 3 (0.6–8); p = 0.03 and 3 (0.005–9.6) vs. 0.2 (0.08–0.7); p = 0.05].

Conclusions

The suppressor function of SOCS3 in COPD seems to be overridden by other factors and does not follow the animal-model paradigm. Expression of SOCS3 in BAL macrophage-derived EVs might be useful to assess the degree of inflammation and possible progression of COPD. Downregulation of SOCS3, by miRNA, in smokers without COPD might contribute to the risk of developing cancer in these patients.
Faecalibacterium duncaniae as a novel next generation probiotic against influenza
Authors: Chollet Loïc , Heumel Séverine , Deruyter Lucie , Bouilloux Fabrice , Delval Lou , Robert Véronique , Gevaert Marie-Hélène , Pichavant Muriel , Sencio Valentin , Robil Cyril , Wolowczuk Isabelle , Sokol Harry , Auger Sandrine , Douablin Alexandre , Langella Philippe , Chatel Jean-Marc , Grangette Corinne , Trottein François
Published: March 2024

The gut-lung axis is critical during viral respiratory infections such as influenza. Gut dysbiosis during infection translates into a massive drop of microbially produced short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Among them, butyrate is important during influenza suggesting that microbiome-based therapeutics targeting butyrate might hold promises. The butyrate-producing bacterium Faecalibacterium duncaniae (formerly referred to as F. prausnitzii) is an emerging probiotic with several health-promoting characteristics. To investigate the potential effects of F. duncaniae on influenza outcomes, mice were gavaged with live F. duncaniae (A2-165 or I-4574 strains) five days before infection. Supplementation of F. duncaniae was associated with less severe disease, a lower pulmonary viral load, and lower levels of lung inflammation. F. duncaniae supplementation impacted on gut dysbiosis induced by infection, as assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing. Interestingly, F. duncaniae administration was associated with a recovery in levels of SCFAs (including butyrate) in infected animals. The live form of F. duncaniae was more potent that the pasteurized form in improving influenza outcomes. Lastly, F. duncaniae partially protected against secondary (systemic) bacterial infection. We conclude that F. duncaniae might serve as a novel next generation probiotic against acute viral respiratory diseases.
Causality between allergic diseases and kidney diseases: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Peng Zhe , Dong Xinyu , Long Yingxin , Li Zunjiang , Wang Yueyao , Zhu Wei , Ding Banghan
Published: March 2024

Background

Evidence from observational studies and clinical trials suggests that the allergic diseases (ADs) are associated with kidney diseases (KDs). However, the causal association between them remains to be determined. We used bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to evaluate the potential causality between them.

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) was performed using publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary datasets. Inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger regression, simple mode, and weighted mode methods are used to evaluate the causality between ADs and KDs. Sensitivity and heterogeneity analyses were used to ensure the stability of the results.

Results

The MR results indicated that genetic susceptibility to ADs was associated with a higher risk of CKD [odds ratio (OR) = 1.124, 95% CI = 1.020–1.239, p = 0.019] and unspecified kidney failure (OR = 1.170, 95% CI = 1.004–1.363, p = 0.045) but not with kidney stone, ureter stone or bladder stone (OR = 1.001, 95% CI = 1.000–1.002, p = 0.216), other renal or kidney problem (OR = 1.000, 95% CI = 1.000–1.001, p = 0.339), urinary tract or kidney infection (OR = 1.000, 95% CI = 0.999–1.001, p = 0.604), kidney volume (OR = 0.996, 95% CI = 0.960–1.033, p = 0.812) and cyst of kidney (OR = 0.914, 95% CI = 0.756–1.105, p = 0.354). No causal evidence of KDs on ADs was found in present study.

Conclusion

Results from MR analysis indicate a causal association between ADs and CKD and unspecified kidney failure. These findings partly suggest that early monitoring of CKD risk in patients with ADs is intentional.
Biological characteristics of the bacteriophage LDT325 and its potential application against the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae
Authors: Liu Li , Wang Bing , Huang Anqi , Zhang Hua , Li Yubao , Wang Lei
Published: March 2024

Bud blight disease caused by Pseudomonas syringae is a major bacterial disease of tea plants in China. Concerns regarding the emergence of bacterial resistance to conventional copper controls have indicated the need to devise new methods of disease biocontrol. Phage-based biocontrol may be a sustainable approach to combat bacterial pathogens. In this study, a P. syringae phage was isolated from soil samples. Based on morphological characteristics, bacteriophage vB_PsS_LDT325 belongs to the Siphoviridae family; it has an icosahedral head with a diameter of 53 ± 1 nm and nonretractable tails measuring 110 ± 1 nm. The latent period and burst size of the phage were 10 min and 17 plaque-forming units (PFU)/cell, respectively. Furthermore, an analysis of the biological traits showed that the optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI) of the phage was 0.01. When the temperature exceeded 60°C, the phage titer began to decrease. The phage exhibited tolerance to a wide range of pH (3–11) and maintained relatively stable pH tolerance. It showed a high tolerance to chloroform, but was sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. The effects of phage LDT325 in treating P. syringae infections in vivo were evaluated using a tea plant. Plants were inoculated with 2 × 107 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL P. syringae using the needle-prick method and air-dried. Subsequently, plants were inoculated with 2 × 107 PFU/mL LDT325 phage. Compared with control plants, the bacterial count was reduced by 1 log10/0.5 g after 4 days in potted tea plants inoculated with the phage. These results underscore the phage as a potential antibacterial agent for controlling P. syringae.
Integrating transcriptomics and metabolomics to analyze the defense response of Morus notabilis to mulberry ring rot disease
Authors: Qian Qianqian , Deng Xinqi , Mureed Sumbul , Gan Yujie , Xu Danping , Wang Xie , Ali Habib
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The mulberry industry has thrived in China for millennia, offering significant ecological and economic benefits. However, the prevalence of mulberry ring rot disease poses a serious threat to the quality and yield of mulberry leaves.

Methods

In this study, we employed a combination of transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses to elucidate the changes occurring at the transcriptional and metabolic levels in Morus notabilis in response to this disease infestation. Key metabolites identified were further validated through in vitro inhibition experiments.

Results

The findings revealed significant enrichment in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, particularly those related to flavonoid biosynthesis. Notably, naringenin, kaempferol, and quercetin emerged as pivotal players in M. notabilis’ defense mechanism against this disease pathogen. The upregulation of synthase genes, including chalcone synthase, flavanone-3-hydroxylase, and flavonol synthase, suggested their crucial roles as structural genes in this process. In vitro inhibition experiments demonstrated that kaempferol and quercetin exhibited broad inhibitory properties, while salicylic acid and methyl jasmonate demonstrated efficient inhibitory effects.

Discussion

This study underscores the significance of the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway in M. notabilis’ defense response against mulberry ring rot disease, offering a theoretical foundation for disease control measures.
HiDeS: a higher-order-derivative-supervised neural ordinary differential equation for multi-robot systems and opinion dynamics
Authors: Li Meng , Bian Wenyu , Chen Liangxiong , Liu Mei
Published: March 2024

This paper addresses the limitations of current neural ordinary differential equations (NODEs) in modeling and predicting complex dynamics by introducing a novel framework called higher-order-derivative-supervised (HiDeS) NODE. This method extends traditional NODE frameworks by incorporating higher-order derivatives and their interactions into the modeling process, thereby enabling the capture of intricate system behaviors. In addition, the HiDeS NODE employs both the state vector and its higher-order derivatives as supervised signals, which is different from conventional NODEs that utilize only the state vector as a supervised signal. This approach is designed to enhance the predicting capability of NODEs. Through extensive experiments in the complex fields of multi-robot systems and opinion dynamics, the HiDeS NODE demonstrates improved modeling and predicting capabilities over existing models. This research not only proposes an expressive and predictive framework for dynamic systems but also marks the first application of NODEs to the fields of multi-robot systems and opinion dynamics, suggesting broad potential for future interdisciplinary work. The code is available at https://github.com/MengLi-Thea/HiDeS-A-Higher-Order-Derivative-Supervised-Neural-Ordinary-Differential-Equation.
Mnemonic utilization in stroke education: FAST and BEFAST adoption by certified comprehensive stroke centers
Authors: Hogge Christopher , Goldstein Larry B. , Aroor Sushanth R.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Symptom recognition and timely access to treatment are critical components of acute stroke care systems. Two mnemonics widely used in public educational campaigns for recognizing stroke symptoms include FAST (Face-Arm-Speech-Time) and BEFAST (Balance-Eyes-Face-Arm Speech-Time). The FAST mnemonic can miss up to 14% of strokes. BEFAST includes common posterior circulation stroke symptoms and has been implemented by several Comprehensive Stroke Centers (CSCs).

Methods

We sought to analyze the pattern of public educational materials available on the websites of US CSCs. The Joint Commission (JC) quality check website compiles a list containing the names and locations of the country’s 217 JC-certified CSCs, which was downloaded in August, 2022. Each CSC’s website was searched for educational material containing FAST and BEFAST mnemonics for stroke symptom recognition.

Results

The FAST mnemonic was listed by 35% of CSCs, the BEFAST by 58%, with 7% listing no specific mnemonic. The highest portion of CSCs using BEFAST was in western (65%) and southeastern (63%) states. The highest percentage of CSCs with no listed mnemonic were in the northeastern (14%) and southeastern (13%) states.

Conclusion

Consistency is critical in shaping public health education related to stroke symptoms recognition. Our study suggests further effort is needed to unify the public messaging on stroke recognition.
A study on EEG differences between active counting and focused breathing tasks for more sensitive detection of consciousness
Authors: You Yimeng , Li Yahui , Yu Baobao , Ying Ankai , Zhou Huilin , Zuo Guokun , Xu Jialin
Published: March 2024

Introduction

In studies on consciousness detection for patients with disorders of consciousness, difference comparison of EEG responses based on active and passive task modes is difficult to sensitively detect patients’ consciousness, while a single potential analysis of EEG responses cannot comprehensively and accurately determine patients’ consciousness status. Therefore, in this paper, we designed a new consciousness detection paradigm based on a multi-stage cognitive task that could induce a series of event-related potentials and ERD/ERS phenomena reflecting different consciousness contents. A simple and direct task of paying attention to breathing was designed, and a comprehensive evaluation of consciousness level was conducted using multi-feature joint analysis.

Methods

We recorded the EEG responses of 20 healthy subjects in three modes and reported the consciousness-related mean event-related potential amplitude, ERD/ERS phenomena, and the classification accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the EEG responses under different conditions.

Results

The results showed that the EEG responses of the subjects under different conditions were significantly different in the time domain and time-frequency domain. Compared with the passive mode, the amplitudes of the event-related potentials in the breathing mode were further reduced, and the theta-ERS and alpha-ERD phenomena in the frontal region were further weakened. The breathing mode showed greater distinguishability from the active mode in machine learning-based classification.

Discussion

By analyzing multiple features of EEG responses in different modes and stimuli, it is expected to achieve more sensitive and accurate consciousness detection. This study can provide a new idea for the design of consciousness detection methods.
Sex differences in waist circumference obesity and eating speed: a cross-sectional study of Japanese people with normal body mass index
Authors: Yaguchi Yuri , Konta Tsuneo , Imaeda Nahomi , Goto Chiho , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Kayama Takamasa
Published: March 2024

Background

Fast eating has been positively associated with visceral fat accumulation in normal-weight individuals according to body mass index (BMI). However, previous studies have not examined energy and nutrients, or adjusted for food intake. We examined the relationship between eating speed and visceral fat accumulation, using waist circumference as an index, in middle-aged participants who were considered to be of standard weight according to BMI, with nutrient intake added as an adjustment factor.

Methods

We included 6,548 Japanese participants (3,875 men and 2,673 women) aged 40–74 years with BMI 18.5–25.0 kg/m2 who were enrolled in the Yamagata Cohort Study. Participants were divided into “fast,” “normal,” and “slow” eaters according to self-reported eating speed. Nutrient and food intake were evaluated using a food frequency questionnaire, and the difference in intake by eating speed and sex was compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between waist circumference obesity (men ≥85 cm, women ≥90 cm, according to Japanese criteria) and eating speed, adjusted for nutrient intake and other lifestyle habits.

Results

In men, slow eaters had greater intakes of dietary protein, fat, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), omega-3 PUFA, total dietary fiber, soluble dietary fiber, insoluble dietary fiber, soybean products, fish, green and yellow vegetables, other vegetables, mushrooms, and seaweed in comparison with normal-speed eaters. In men, waist circumference obesity was significantly lower among slow eaters than in the group with normal eating speed. In women, waist circumference obesity was not significantly associated with eating speed and was not also associated with nutrient/food consumption except omega-6 PUFA.

Conclusion

Eating slowly was associated with healthy dietary habits. Our results could help prevent waist circumference obesity in men with a BMI between 18.5 and 25.0 kg/m2. However, similar findings were not observed in women, suggesting a sex difference.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis during treatment of intracranial multifocal germinoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Guo Ting , Liu Zichun , Chen Yixin , Cheng Yangyang , He Kaitong , Lin Xin , Wang Mingzhu , Sun Yihua
Published: March 2024

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), also known as hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS), is a benign histiocytosis with hyperreactive proliferation of the mononuclear phagocyte system caused by immune function abnormalities, which often occurs under the background of genetic mutations, inflammation, infection or tumors. Because the research on malignancy-associated HLH (M-HLH) is focused on hematological malignancies, reports on HLH secondary to solid tumors are rare. In this case, we report a 14-year-old girl who developed HLH during treatment for intracranial multifocal germinoma, and the disease was controlled after hormone combined with etoposide(VP-16) and other related treatments. To our knowledge, there have been no documented cases of HLH caused by intracranial multifocal germinoma.
Meta-analysis of dynamic contrast enhancement and diffusion-weighted MRI for differentiation of benign from malignant non-mass enhancement breast lesions
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Longchao , Zhang Li , Zhe Xia , Tang Min , Lei Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiaoling
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis comparing the diagnostic efficacy of models based on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)-MRI, dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE)-MRI, and combination models (DCE and DWI) in distinguishing benign from malignant non-mass enhancement (NME) breast lesions.

Materials and methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched, from inception to January 30, 2023, for studies that used DCE or DWI-MRI for the prediction of NME breast cancer patients. A bivariate random-effects model was used to calculate the meta-analytic sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) of the DCE, DWI, and combination models. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis were performed to find the source of heterogeneity.

Results

Of the 838 articles screened, 18 were eligible for analysis (13 on DCE, five on DWI, and four studies reporting the diagnostic accuracy of both DCE and DWI). The funnel plot showed no publication bias (p > 0.5). The pooled sensitivity and specificity and the AUC of the DCE, DWI, and combination models were 0.58, 0.72, and 0.70, respectively; 0.84, 0.69, and 0.84, respectively; and 0.88, 0.79, 0.90, respectively. The meta-analysis found no evidence of a threshold effect and significant heterogeneity among trials in terms of DCE sensitivity and specificity, as well as DWI specificity alone (I2 > 75%). The meta-regression revealed that different diagnostic criteria contributed to the DCE study’s heterogeneity (p < 0.05). Different reference criteria significantly influenced the heterogeneity of the DWI model (p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed that clustered ring enhancement (CRE) had the highest pooled specificity (0.92) among other DCE features. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) with a mean threshold <1.3 × 10−3 mm2/s had a slightly higher sensitivity of 0.86 compared to 0.82 with an ADC of ≥1.3 × 10−3 mm2/s.

Conclusion

The combination model (DCE and DWI) outperformed DCE or DWI alone in identifying benign and malignant NME lesions. The DCE-CRE feature was the most specific test for ruling in NME cancers.
Korean red ginseng extract prevents bone loss in an oral model of glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis in mice
Authors: Chargo Nicholas J. , Kang Ho Jun , Das Subhashari , Jin Yining , Rockwell Cheryl , Cho Jae Youl , McCabe Laura R. , Parameswaran Narayanan
Published: March 2024

The gut microbiota and barrier function play important roles in bone health. We previously demonstrated that chronic glucocorticoid (GC)-induced bone loss in mice is associated with significant shifts in gut microbiota composition and impaired gut barrier function. Korean Red Ginseng (KRG, Panax Ginseng Meyer, Araliaceae) extract has been shown to prevent glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) in a subcutaneous pellet model in mice, but its effect on gut microbiota and barrier function in this context is not known. The overall goal of this study was to test the effect of KRG extract in a clinically relevant, oral model of GIO and further investigate its role in modulating the gut-bone axis. Growing male mice (CD-1, 8 weeks) were treated with 75 μg/mL corticosterone (∼9 mg/kg/day) or 0.4% ethanol vehicle in the drinking water for 4 weeks. During this 4-week period, mice were treated daily with 500 mg/kg/day KRG extract dissolved in sterile water or an equal amount of sterile water via oral gastric gavage. After 4 weeks of treatment, we assessed bone volume, microbiota composition, gut barrier integrity, and immune cells in the bone marrow (BM) and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs). 4 weeks of oral GC treatment caused significant distal femur trabecular bone loss, and this was associated with changes in gut microbiota composition, impaired gut barrier function and altered immune cell composition. Importantly, KRG extract prevented distal femur trabecular bone loss and caused significant alterations in gut microbiota composition but had only modest effects on gut barrier function and immune cell populations. Taken together, these results demonstrate that KRG extract significantly modulates the gut microbiota-bone axis and prevents glucocorticoid-induced bone loss in mice.
Naodesheng decoction regulating vascular function via G-protein-coupled receptors: network analysis and experimental investigations
Authors: Chen Shuhan , Niu Ziran , Shen Yanjia , Lu Wendan , Zhao Jiaying , Yang Huilin , Guo Minmin , Zhang Li , Zheng Ruifang , Du Guanhua , Li Li
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Ischemic stroke (IS) is a detrimental neurological disease with limited treatment options. Recanalization of blocked blood vessels and restoring blood supply to ischemic brain tissue are crucial for post-stroke rehabilitation. The decoction Naodesheng (NDS) composed of five Chinese botanical drugs, including Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen, Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort., Carthamus tinctorius L., Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi, and Crataegus pinnatifida Bge., is a blood-activating and stasis-removing herbal medicine commonly used for the clinical treatment of cerebrovascular diseases in China. However, the material basis of NDS on the effects of blood circulation improvement and vascular tone regulation remains unclear.

Methods: A database comprising 777 chemical metabolites of NDS was constructed. Then, the interactions between various herbal metabolites of NDS and five vascular tone modulation G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including 5-HT1AR, 5-HT1BR, β2-AR, AT1R, and ETBR, were assessed by molecular docking. Using network analysis and vasomotor experiment of the cerebral basilar artery, the potential material basis underlying the vascular regulatory effects of NDS was further explored.

Results: The Naodesheng Effective Component Group (NECG) was found to induce relaxation of rat basilar artery rings precontracted using Endothelin-1 (ET-1) and KCl in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. Several metabolites of NDS, including C. tinctorius, C. pinnatifida, and P. notoginseng, were found to be the main plant resources of metabolites with high docking scores. Furthermore, several metabolites in NDS, including formononetin-7-glucoside, hydroxybenzoyl-coumaric anhydride, methoxymecambridine, puerarol, and pyrethrin II, were found to target multiple vascular GPCRs. Metabolites with moderate-to-high binding energy were verified to have good rat basilar artery-relaxing effects, and the maximum artery relaxation effects of all three metabolites, namely, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, and daidzein, were found to exceed 90%. Moreover, metabolites of NDS were found to exert a synergistic effect by interacting with vascular GPCR targets, and these metabolites may contribute to the cerebrovascular regulatory function of NDS.

Discussion: The study reports that various metabolites of NDS contribute to its vascular tone regulating effects and demonstrates the multi-component and multi-target characteristics of NDS. Among them, metabolites with moderate-to-high binding scores in NDS may play an important role in regulating vascular function.
Dimensionality reduction and machine learning based model of software cost estimation
Authors: Zhang Wei , Cheng Haixin , Zhan Siyu , Luo Ming , Wang Feng , Huang Zhan
Published: March 2024

Software Cost Estimation (SCE) is one of the research priorities and challenges in the construction of cyber-physical-social systems (CPSSs). In CPSS, it is urge to process environmental and social information accurately and use it to guide social practice. Thus, in response to the problems of low prediction accuracy, poor robustness, and poor interpretability in SCE, this paper proposes a SCE model based on Autoencoder and Random Forest. First, preprocess the project data, remove outliers, and build regression trees to fill in missing attributes in the data. Second, construct a Autoencoder to reduce the dimensionality of factors that affect software cost. Subsequently, the performance of the model was trained and validated using the XGBoost framework on three datasets: COCOMO81, Albrecht, and Desharnais, and compared with common cost prediction models. The experimental results show that the MMRE, MdMRE, and PRED (0.25) values of the proposed model on the COCOMO81 dataset reached 0.21, 0.16, and 0.71, respectively. Compared with other models, the proposed model achieved significant improvements in accuracy and robustness.
Artificial shading of teinturier grape Kolor clusters reveals light-responsive biomarkers: focus on flavonoid profiles and metabolism
Authors: Li Huiqing , Gao Xiaotong , Wang Yu , Lu Haocheng , Tian Mengbo , Duan Changqing , Wang Jun
Published: March 2024

Kolor is a teinturier grape cultivar, that accumulates flavonoids in the skin and pulp. However, the concentrations and proportions of flavonoids in Kolor skin and pulp differ, suggesting tissue specificity in teinturier grapes. Light conditions significantly influence the evolution of flavonoids. Moreover, studies on the mechanisms governing flavonoid accumulation in light response sensitivity of teinturier grapes are limited. In the three consecutive years of study, the exposure of Kolor clusters was altered by bagging from pre-veraison to harvest. QqQ/MS and RT‒qPCR wereused to determine the individual anthocyanin contents and the relative gene expression. There was a significant decrease in the total anthocyanins and flavonols in the Kolor berries, with flavonols showing greater sensitivity to bagging. Bagging did not exert a consistent impact on the flavan-3-ols in Kolor berries. The sensitivities of anthocyanins in Kolor skin and pulp differed under light exclusion conditions. The concentration of trihydroxy-substituted anthocyanins in the skin decreased, while the proportion of dihydroxy-substituted anthocyanins in the pulp significantly increased, but the anthocyanin concentration in the pulp did not change significantly after bagging. The contents of malvidins and quercetins in the skin, and myricetins and quercetins in the pulp, were significantly reduced after bagging. The expression of flavonoid synthesis genes in Kolor skin and pulp was tissue-specific. After bagging, UFGT expression increased in the pulp and decreased in the skin. In addition, LDOX, FLS-1, CHI-1, CHI-2, F3H-1, F3H-2, and MYB4a exhibited sensitive light responses in both the skin and pulp. This study offers new insights into the regulation of flavonoids in Kolor grapes under light exclusion conditions.
Glutathione-the “master” antioxidant in the regulation of resistant and susceptible host-plant virus-interaction
Authors: Kozieł Edmund , Otulak-Kozieł Katarzyna , Rusin Piotr
Published: March 2024

The interaction between plant hosts and plant viruses is a very unique and complex process, relying on dynamically modulated intercellular redox states and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Plants strive to precisely control this state during biotic stress, as optimal redox levels enable proper induction of defense mechanisms against plant viruses. One of the crucial elements of ROS regulation and redox state is the production of metabolites, such as glutathione, or the activation of glutathione-associated enzymes. Both of these elements play a role in limiting the degree of potential oxidative damage in plant cells. While the role of glutathione and specific enzymes is well understood in other types of abiotic and biotic stresses, particularly those associated with bacteria or fungi, recent advances in research have highlighted the significance of glutathione modulation and mutations in genes encoding glutathione-associated enzymes in triggering immunity or susceptibility against plant viruses. Apparently, glutathione-associated genes are involved in precisely controlling and protecting host cells from damage caused by ROS during viral infections, playing a crucial role in the host’s response. In this review, we aim to outline the significant improvements made in research on plant viruses and glutathione, specifically in the context of their involvement in susceptible and resistant responses, as well as changes in the localization of glutathione. Analyses of essential glutathione-associated enzymes in susceptible and resistant responses have demonstrated that the levels of enzymatic activity or the absence of specific enzymes can impact the spread of the virus and activate host-induced defense mechanisms. This contributes to the complex network of the plant immune system. Although investigations of glutathione during the plant-virus interplay remain a challenge, the use of novel tools and approaches to explore its role will significantly contribute to our knowledge in the field.
H2O2 drives the transition from conchocelis to conchosporangia in the red alga Pyropia haitanensis with promotion facilitated by 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid
Authors: Niu Tingting , Qian Haike , Chen Haimin , Luo Qijun , Chen Juanjuan , Yang Rui , Zhang Peng , Wang Tiegan
Published: March 2024

The Bangiales represent an ancient lineage within red algae that are characterized by a life history featuring a special transitional stage from diploid to haploid known as the conchosporangia stage. However, the regulatory mechanisms governing the initiation of this stage by changes in environmental conditions are not well understood. This study analyzed the changes in phytohormones and H2O2 content during the development of conchosporangia. It also compared the gene expression changes in the early development of conchosporangia through transcriptome analysis. The findings revealed that H2O2 was shown to be the key signal initiating the transition from conchocelis to conchosporangia in Pyropia haitanensis. Phytohormone analysis showed a significant increase in 1-aminocylopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) levels during conchosporangia maturation, while changes in environmental conditions were found to promote the rapid release of H2O2. H2O2 induction led to conchosporangia development, and ACC enhanced both H2O2 production and conchosporangia development. This promotive effect was inhibited by the NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenylene iodonium and the H2O2 scavenger N, N’-dimethylthiourea. The balance of oxidative–antioxidative mechanisms was maintained by regulating the activities and transcriptional levels of enzymes involved in H2O2 production and scavenging. Transcriptome analysis in conjunction with evaluation of enzyme and transcription level changes revealed upregulation of protein and sugar synthesis along with modulation of energy supply under the conditions that induced maturation, and exogenous ACC was found to enhance the entire process. Overall, this study demonstrates that ACC enhances H2O2 promotion of the life cycle switch responsible for the transition from a vegetative conchocelis to a meiosis-preceding conchosporangia stage in Bangiales species.
Digital manipulation and mass mobilization over the long run: evidence from Latin America
Authors: Alcántara-Lizárraga José Ángel , Jima-González Alexandra
Published: March 2024

False information flows through social media are a worldwide phenomenon, affecting Latin America in particular, where more than 70% of internet users report growing concern regarding the circulation of fake news, especially through social media platforms. Although the academic literature has studied how governments may be incentivized to disseminate false information, it has concentrated in the electoral context mostly. In this sense, the impact of disinformation on mass mobilization patterns has been less explored, although it is relevant: manipulation through social media can reduce citizens' inclination to protest by directly influencing their preferences or beliefs about the government, acting as a preventive digital repression tool. In fact, governments have efficiently used it in the short run; however, it has not been established if this strategy could work in the long run. Hence, this article explores the long-term relationship between manipulation by the government through social media and the occurrence of mass mobilization to determine whether they are cointegrated. Drawing on the most recent literature on digital repression, manipulation, and mass mobilization and by applying a panel cointegration methodology in nine countries in Latin America (2000–2021), we find that the variables are cointegrated. In addition, we explore the causal (Granger) effect and find a unidirectional link that goes from social media manipulation to mass mobilization.
Promoting mental health in children and adolescents through digital technology: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Tianjiao , Ou Jingyi , Li Gege , Luo Heng
Published: March 2024

Background

The increasing prevalence of mental health issues among children and adolescents has prompted a growing number of researchers and practitioners to explore digital technology interventions, which offer convenience, diversity, and proven effectiveness in addressing such problems. However, the existing literature reveals a significant gap in comprehensive reviews that consolidate findings and discuss the potential of digital technologies in enhancing mental health.

Methods

To clarify the latest research progress on digital technology to promote mental health in the past decade (2013–2023), we conducted two studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The systematic review is based on 59 empirical studies identified from three screening phases, with basic information, types of technologies, types of mental health issues as key points of analysis for synthesis and comparison. The meta-analysis is conducted with 10 qualified experimental studies to determine the overall effect size of digital technology interventions and possible moderating factors.

Results

The results revealed that (1) there is an upward trend in relevant research, comprising mostly experimental and quasi-experimental designs; (2) the common mental health issues include depression, anxiety, bullying, lack of social emotional competence, and mental issues related to COVID-19; (3) among the various technological interventions, mobile applications (apps) have been used most frequently in the diagnosis and treatment of mental issues, followed by virtual reality, serious games, and telemedicine services; and (4) the meta-analysis results indicated that digital technology interventions have a moderate and significant effect size (g = 0.43) for promoting mental health.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, this study provides guidance for future practice and research on the promotion of adolescent mental health through digital technology.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2023-12-0004/, doi: 10.37766/inplasy2023.12.0004.
Effects of golf instructors’ professional certification levels on amateur golfers’ perception of instructor expertise, instructor credibility, and lesson participation intention: testing placebo and nocebo effects
Authors: Yang Hye Jin , Yang Ji-Hye , Jung Si Cheol , Choi Chulhwan , Bum Chul-Ho
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the differences in amateur golfers’ perceptions of instructor expertise, instructor credibility, and lesson participation intention depending on the golf instructor’s certification level to investigate whether placebo and nocebo effects exist depending on the certification level. Accordingly, the study analyzed 153 amateur golfers with at least 1 year of playing experience, and the results were as follows: First, there was a difference in the perception of instructor expertise among amateur golfers depending on the golf instructor’s certification level. Specifically, there were significant differences in perceived performance and teaching skills but no differences in personality and emphasis on basic principles. Second, the participants reported significant differences in their perceptions of instructor credibility depending on the instructor’s certification level. Instructor credibility of the tournament professional group was the highest, whereas that of the amateur group was the lowest. Third, the results showed differences in lesson participation intention among amateur golfers depending on the instructor’s certification level. Lesson participation intention was higher for semi-professional and tournament professional instructors than for amateur instructors. These results verified the presence of psychological biases, such as placebo/nocebo effects, that result in differences in the perception of instructor expertise, instructor credibility, and lesson participation intention depending on the certification level of instructors. Additionally, based on the data obtained from this study, further research is required to improve the performance of golf instructors and create an efficient teaching environment.
Associations between hypertension and cognitive, mood, and behavioral parameters in very old adults: results from the IlSIRENTE study
Authors: Coelho-Junior Helio José , Calvani Riccardo , Tosato Matteo , Russo Andrea , Landi Francesco , Picca Anna , Marzetti Emanuele
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Studies on the associations between hypertension-related parameters and cognitive function, mood, and behavioral symptoms in older adults have produced mixed findings. A possible explanation for these divergent results is that investigations have not adequately adjusted their analyses according to the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). Therefore, the present study examined the cross-sectional associations between hypertension-related parameters, ACEI use, and cognitive function, mood, and behavioral symptoms in very old adults.

Methods

This study was conducted by analyzing the IlSIRENTE database, a prospective cohort study that collected data on all individuals aged 80 years and older residing in the Sirente geographic area (n = 364). Blood pressure (BP) was assessed after 20 to 40 min of rest, while participants sat in an upright position. Drugs were coded according to the Anatomical Therapeutic and Chemical codes. Cognitive function, mood, and behavioral symptoms were recorded using the Minimum Data Set Home Care instrument. Blood inflammatory markers were measured.

Results

Hypertension-related parameters were significantly associated with many cognitive, mood, and behavioral parameters after adjustment for covariates. However, only the inverse association between hypertension and lesser problems with short-term memory remained significant. Participants with hypertension had lower blood concentrations of inflammatory markers in comparison to their normotensive peers.

Conclusion

Findings from the present study indicate that high BP values are associated with fewer complaints about memory problems in very old adults. Furthermore, a lower concentration of inflammatory markers was found in hypertensive participants. ACEI use might affect this scenario.
The challenges of mental health in Chilean university students
Authors: Beroíza-Valenzuela Francisca
Published: March 2024

Mental health is a crucial issue in Chile and worldwide, gaining even more relevance following social events in Chile in 2019, including the sociopolitical crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. In Chile, over 20% of adolescents experience mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and stress, with many going untreated due to limited access or the stigma associated with these issues. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this situation, with a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression. The university population is particularly vulnerable to mental health challenges due to the unique pressures of the academic environment, including increased academic demands and the acquisition of university-related behaviors that can negatively impact physical and mental health, with notable gender differences. Effectively addressing these issues is essential for ensuring the emotional and psychological well-being of university students. Specific policies and programs are needed to address the mental health needs of university adolescents and ensure that they have access to mental health services required to navigate the challenges of daily life. A methodology reflective of the essayistic approach guides this exploration, which is characterized by critical reflection and structured argumentation.
Delayed effects of radiation exposure in a C57L/J mouse model of partial body irradiation with ~2.5% bone marrow shielding
Authors: Beach Tyler , Bakke James , McDonald J. Tyson , Riccio Edward , Javitz Harold S. , Nishita Denise , Kapur Shweta , Bunin Deborah I. , Chang Polly Y.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Mouse models of radiation injury are critical to the development of medical countermeasures (MCMs) against radiation. Now that MCMs against hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome (H-ARS) have achieved regulatory approval, attention is shifting to develop MCMs against the adverse effects of gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS) and delayed effects of acute radiation exposure (DEARE). The C57L/J mouse model of partial body irradiation (PBI) with 2.5% bone marrow shielding (BM2.5) is being leveraged to examine both GI-ARS and DEARE effects. Within days of PBI, mice may develop H- and GI-ARS followed several months later by DEARE as a multi-organ injury, which typically involves the lung and kidney (L- and K-DEARE, respectively). The objective of this manuscript is to describe the dose response relationship and progression of radiation injury in the C57L/J mouse and to evaluate its suitability for use in DEARE MCM testing.

Materials and methods

In two separate studies conducted over 2 years, male and female C57L/J mice were exposed to PBI BM2.5 with one hindlimb shielded from radiation, representing ~2.5% bone marrow shielding/sparing. Mice were X-ray irradiated at doses ranging from 9 to 13 Gy at 10 to 12 weeks of age for the purposes of assessing ARS survival at 30 days and DEARE survival at 182 days post-irradiation. Clinical indicators of ARS and DEARE were determined by clinical observations, body weights, hematology, clinical chemistry, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of lung, and histopathology of selected tissues.

Results

C57L/J mice developed canonical ARS responses of hematopoietic atrophy and gastrointestinal injury resulting in dose dependent mortality at doses ≥11 Gy between 1- and 15-days post-irradiation. In animals that survived ARS, DEARE associated mortality occurred in dose dependent fashion at ≥9 Gy for both sexes between 60- and 159-days post-irradiation with histopathology examinations indicating lung injury as the primary cause of death in moribund animals.

Conclusion

The PBI BM2.5 C57L/J mouse model reliably produced known H- and GI-ARS effects at doses greater than those resulting in DEARE effects. Because of this, the C57L/J mouse can be used to test MCMs against L-DEARE injury, while avoiding ARS associated mortality.