bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOCIALIZATION OF THE IMPACT OF VIOLENCE THROUGH MASS MEDIA ON AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR
Authors: HUTAGALUNG Inge
Published: November 2021

Society in the current era of reformation has actually been presented with the naked staging of what the French poststructuralist thinker Jean Baudrillard (1983) calls a 'theater of cruelty'. As theater, violence, cruelty and ruthlessness have become a kind of ritual that is staged into the public sphere. Violence has become a discourse in the public sphere. The social learning theory proposition states that humans imitate and identify by learning through observing the behavior of others around them, including through mass media. The purpose of community service activities (PkM) is to socialize the impact of violent broadcasts on aggressive behavior, given the role of the mass media as a double-edged knife, having both a function and a dysfunction. The function of the media to inform reality can ultimately have negative side effects. The method of implementation is done through Learning Methodology, a method that focuses on participant participation. The result of this PkM activity is an increase in public awareness of the impact of the mass media. Because if society is constantly being fed with the values of violence, over time there will be an assumption that violence is commonplace, and will make the community insensitive to violence. As a result, in a broad sense, there will be chaos in the social values and norms of society, where the good and true values are confused.
Chinese Undergraduates’ Performance in HOTS and LOTS EFL Reading Comprehension for Different Reading Materials According to Gender
Authors: Lingfeng Li , Nair Subadrah Madhawa
Published: November 2021

Many studies indicate that Chinese undergraduates face problems in their HOTS comprehension. The objective of this study is to investigate Chinese EFL undergraduates’ HOST and LOTS reading comprehension according to gender. A descriptive research design was employed in this quantitative study. The researchers used an English reading comprehension test involving 5 different materials (education, economy, entertainment, technology and natural disaster) as the research instrument. Each material consists of 3 LOTS questions and 2 HOTS questions. All the comprehension questions were multiple choice in nature. The sample of the study consists of 411 second year undergraduate students (261 females and 150 males) from a university in Hunan Province, China. SPSS Program for Windows version 25 was used to analyze the data (Independent samples t-test). The findings of this current study indicated that the female students performed significantly better than their male counterparts for both LOTS and HOTS comprehension questions. The female students also outperformed their male students in their overall score for comprehension. As such, these results clearly revealed that female undergraduates performed significantly better than the males in their EFL reading comprehension skills. However, this research only involves participants from one university; as a result, future research should include a larger sample from different provinces in China to get a better insight of students’ performance in EFL comprehension.
Strategi Promosi Kesehatan Dalam Program Kawasan Tanpa Rokok di Desa Bone-Bone Kabupaten Enrekang
Authors: Sari Indah , Fairus Prihatin Idris  , Yusriani
Published: November 2021

Merokok merupakan kebiasaan yang hampir ditemui disetiap kalangan masyarakat, jumlah perokok terus meningkat karena kurangnya pengetahuan,dan faktor lingkungan sekitar yang dapat mengancam keselamatan jiwa laki-laki. Merokok mengakibatkan kecanduan seperti perokok pasif yang menyebabkan penyakit kanker dan ISPA. Tujuan penelitian untuk mendapatkan informasi secara mendalam mengenai advokasi, binasuasana, dan pemberdayaan masyarakat mengenai strategi promosi kesehatan dalam program KTR diDesa Bone-Bone Kecamatan Baraka. Metode penelitian ini merupakan penelitian quasi kualitatif yang deskriptif mengambarkan,melukiskan fakta-fakta atau keadaan maupun situasi yang tampak dalam Desa, fokus utamanya mengali secara mendalam bagaimana terbentuknya KTR sampai saat ini. melalui wawancara mendalam(indepth interview),observasi dan dokumentasi secara terus menerus selama penelitian berlangsung. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Desa Bone-Bone pada tanggal 9  Maret  sampai dengan 16 Agustus 2020. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian quasi kualitatif dengan menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif. Informasi diperoleh melalui wawancara mendalam. Sumber data yaitu orang-orang yang diminta memberikan informasi, dan bersedia memberikan informasi yang disebut informan. Jumlah informan biasa sebanyak 4 orang, namun yang peneliti dalami 3 orang. Kesimpulan Advokasi mengenai KTR didesa Bone-Bone berjalan dengan sesuai yang diharapkan walaupun adanya masyarakat yang tidak setuju. Bina Suasana mengenai KTR didesa Bone-Bone dilakukan melaui proses yang panjang dan selalu melakukan sosialisasi,pemasangan spanduk larangan merokok, dan ceramah-ceramah mengenai rokok berbahaya, Pemberdayaan Masyarakat mengenai KTR didesa Bone-Bone melihat sejauh mana perkembangan program dan melibatkan para tokoh masyarakat agar program yang dijalankan lebih evisien.
Multicultural Little Italy: A Literary Comparison of Canadian and US Urban Enclaves
Authors: Sañudo Eva Pelayo
Published: November 2021

Drawing on Paul Moses’ An Unlikely Union: The Love-Hate Story of New York’s Irish and Italians (2015), this article explores the history and literary reflection of multicultural cities. Particularly, Louisa Ermelino’s novel The Sisters Mallone (2002) challenges accepted views of certain urban enclaves as ghettos. This assumption obscures cross-cultural relations and renders superficial the term multicultural as only a mosaic of discrete cultures living together. In this respect, a comparison to official multiculturalism in Canada discusses the complex nature of identity and belonging. A unique case study is Quebec, as is reflected in the position of the trilingual writer and the affiliation to world literature. This article is divided into two parts. Firstly, it analyzes a literary text that looks at US ethnic relations beyond conflict and segregation. The second part, using Italian/Canadian literary history, reflects on Canada as a multicultural country characterized by cultural diversity yet where cultural difference entails unequal power relationships such as regarding migrants and migrant literature.
Michelle Alfano on Her Memoir, The Unfinished Dollhouse
Authors: Cusmano Liana
Published: November 2021

Liana Cusmano’s interview with Toronto author Michelle Alfano offers reflections on gender identity and living through a child’s transitioning. The act of writing helped Alfano overcome the distress she felt during this difficult time. In her memoir The Unfinished Dollhouse, Michelle Alfano recounts the journey she underwent in accepting and embracing her son’s transgender identity. From tell-tale signs in early childhood and the mental and physical afflictions in the early teen years, to the reactions of family and friends and the final steps in a social and medical transition from female to male, Alfano explores the thoughts and feelings she experienced over the years as her son, River, fought to be his truest self.
Figure, usi, e paradossi della nostalgia
Authors: Teti Vito
Published: November 2021

I termini nostalgia e melanconia si sono affermati come categorie significative di svariate discipline (filosofia, antropologia, storia, psicanalisi ecc.) secondo le quali l'emigrazione può essere studiata sia come dispersione e perdita di presenza e identità culturali sia come occasione di rinnovato spirito creativo, come una rinascita, nel luogo di accoglienza, per una nuova comunità, seguendo un particolare percorso utopico. Ciascuna delle succitate categorie presenta comunque una duplice accezione: una conservativa, retroattiva, che porta all'indietro, l’altra “attiva”, propositiva, rigeneratrice, che guarda al futuro senza cancellare il passato. In questo saggio, a seguito di una rapida revisione di tali concetti, attraverso la letteratura antropologica, filosofica, demologica del mondo occidentale, si prende in esame la nostalgia degli emigrati nel nuovo mondo, analizzandone le diverse movenze e ambiguità nella lenta costruzione di nuove identità, e ricordando l’importanza di saper “ritornare” alle origini con coscienza critica, sempre attenta e mai retorica.
Nostos, Nostalgia and Italian Migration
Authors: Sturino Franc
Published: November 2021

The Italian immigrant experience in North America is discussed in relation to the concepts of nostos and nostalgia. The first term, normally referring to the return home from a sea voyage, is discussed comparing the foundational account of nostos, the Odyssey, with the early sojourn phase of Italian migration. By comparison, nostalgia, which can take the form either of homesickness or a longing for the past, is found in the permanent settlement phase, wherein the sense of homesickness predominates pre-World War II while that of longing for the past best defines the post-war period.
I movimenti del ritorno nell’esperienza dei migranti italiani in Canada
Authors: Floriani Sonia
Published: November 2021

Ai fini di un’interpretazione dei modi in cui la migrazione si trasforma nel tempo biografico, in questo saggio concentro l’attenzione sull'esperienza del nóstos. Infatti, analizzando sia i modi in cui cambiano la rappresentazione e la pratica del ritorno nella biografia del migrante, sia le forme in cui si dissolve e si ricostruisce il senso di dimora, propongo alcune ipotesi di lettura dell'esperienza della migrazione. La costruzione delle ipotesi si è avvalsa del ‘dialogo’ con alcune figure di straniero proposte dalla sociologia classica, in particolare da Alfred Schutz, Georg Simmel e Robert Park, e delle narrazioni biografiche raccolte nel corso di una ricerca sulla migrazione italiana del secondo dopoguerra in Canada.
Fuga e ritorno: Italian-Canadian Narratives
Authors: Pivato Joseph
Published: November 2021

Many Italian-Canadian authors have been stimulated to explore their dual identity after a return trip to Italy. They confront the myth of nostalgia as an emotional blind-spot to the harsh realities of past miseria and present-day conflicts in Italian society. Women writers such as Mary di Michele, Caterina Edwards, Licia Canton and Rina Cralli are particularly critical of the position of women in Italy and the whole nostalgia sentimentality promoted by Italian popular culture and music. Pasquale Verdicchio’s whole writing career has been a systematic rejection of the thematics of nostalgia.
EFFECTIVENESS OF PEDIATRIC PALLIATIVE CARE EDUCATION PROGRAM IN STRENGTHENING NURSING STUDENTS’ PALLIATIVE CARE PRACTICES AND ATTITUDES TOWARD CARE OF THE DYING
Authors: AKDENİZ KUDUBEŞ Aslı , AYAR Dıjle , BEKTAŞ İlknur , BEKTAŞ Murat
Published: November 2021

Objective: The present study used a quasi-experimental design to determine the effectiveness of palliative care education program in strengthening nursing students’ palliative care practices and attitudes toward care of the dying.

Methods: The study involved 39 nursing student of 4th year, including 17 students in the experimental group and 22 in the control group. A pediatric palliative care education program was applied to the intervention group through interactive learning methods. The data was evaluated using multidimensional variance analysis, the Bonferroni modified t measure, and regression analysis.

Results: A significant difference was found among the experimental and the control group for total mean scores of the all scale. A high level, positive, and highly significant relationship was found between the education program and all scale.

Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that the pediatric palliative care education program was an effective method that could be used in educating nursing students. The study provides effective results for including pediatric palliative care nursing course to the nursing undergraduate education curriculum.
Assessment of Oral Health in Elders with and without Alzheimer’s Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: CEBECİ Ilgın Asena , OZTURK Damla , DOGAN Basak , BEKİROĞLU Nural
Published: November 2021

Objective: Assessment and comparison of oral health status in elders with and without Alzheimer's disease.

Methods: This age and gender matched cross-sectional study included participants from an Alzheimer’s day care center, and a nursing home. Mental state, oral and periodontal health, Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI), unstimulated salivary flow rate (USFR), and other dry mouth conditions were examined. Group comparisons, and correlation analysis were performed.

Results: Thirty-six elders with AD and 37 elders without AD were included. Elders had similar GOHAI scores, USFR level (p>0.05). Elders with AD had lower probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL), and higher presence of no periodontitis than the elders without AD (p
Thiadiazoloquinoxaline-Based Semiconducting Polymer Nanoparticles for NIR-II Fluorescence Imaging-Guided Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Gu Xuxuan , Liao Keyue , Lu Xiaomei , Huang Wei , Fan Quli
Published: November 2021

Phototheranostics have gained more and more attention in the field of cancer diagnosis and therapy. Among a variety of fluorophores for phototheranostics, semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (SPNs), which are usually constructed by encapsulating hydrophobic semiconducting polymers (SPs) with amphiphilic copolymers, have shown great promise. As second near-infrared (NIR-II) fluorescence imaging has both higher imaging resolution and deeper tissue penetration compared with first near-infrared (NIR-I) fluorescence imaging, NIR-II fluorescent SPNs have been widely designed and prepared. Among numerous structural units for semiconducting polymers (SPs) synthesis, thiadiazoloquinoxaline (TQ) has been proved as an efficient electron acceptor unit for constructing NIR-II fluorescent SPs by reacting with proper electron donor units. Herein, we summarize recent advances in TQ-based SPNs for NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided cancer photothermal therapy. The preparation of TQ-based SPNs is first described. NIR-II fluorescence imaging-based and multimodal imaging-based phototheranostics are sequentially discussed. At last, the conclusion and future perspectives of this field are presented.
Combined Methodologies for Determining In Vitro Bioavailability of Drugs and Prediction of In Vivo Bioequivalence From Pharmaceutical Oral Formulations
Authors: De Simone A. , Davani L. , Montanari S. , Tumiatti V. , Avanessian S. , Testi F. , Andrisano V.
Published: November 2021

With the aim of developing an in vitro model for the bioavailability (BA) prediction of drugs, we focused on the study of levonorgestrel (LVN) released by 1.5 mg generic and brand-name tablets. The developed method consisted in combining a standard dissolution test with an optimized parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) to gain insights into both drug release and gastrointestinal absorption. Interestingly, the obtained results revealed that the tablet standard dissolution test, combined with an optimized PAMPA, highlighted a significant decrease in the release (15 ± 0.01 μg min−1 vs 30 ± 0.01 μg min−1) and absorption (19 ± 7 × 10–6 ± 7 cm/s Pe vs 41 ± 15 × 10–6 cm/s Pe) profiles of a generic LVN tablet when compared to the brand-name formulation, explaining unbalanced in vivo bioequivalence (BE). By using this new approach, we could determine the actual LVN drug concentration dissolved in the medium, which theoretically can permeate the gastrointestinal (GI) barrier. In fact, insoluble LVN/excipient aggregates were found in the dissolution media giving rise to non-superimposable dissolution profiles between generic and brand-name LVN tablets. Hence, the results obtained by combining the dissolution test and PAMPA method provided important insights confirming that the combined methods can be useful in revealing crucial issues in the prediction of in vivo BE of drugs.
Meroterpenoids From Ganoderma lucidum Mushrooms and Their Biological Roles in Insulin Resistance and Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Jiao-Jiao , Wang Dai-Wei , Cai Dan , Lu Qing , Cheng Yong-Xian
Published: November 2021

Ganoderma fungi as popular raw materials of numerous functional foods have been extensively investigated. In this study, five pairs of meroterpenoid enantiomers beyond well-known triterpenoids and polysaccharides, dayaolingzhiols I−M (1–5), were characterized from Ganoderma lucidum. Their structures were identified using spectroscopic and computational methods. Structurally, compound 1 features a novel dioxabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-3-one motif in the side chain. Ethnoknowledge-derived biological evaluation found that (+)-5 could activate Akt and AMPK phosphorylation in insulin-stimulated C2C12 cells, and (+)-5 could activate glucose uptake dose dependently in C2C12 cells. Furthermore, we found that (+)-1 (+)-4, and (–)-4 could significantly inhibit cell migration of the MDA-MB-231 cell line, of which (+)-4 showed significant inhibitory effects against cell migration of the MDA-MB-231 cell line in a dose-dependent manner. These findings revealed the meroterpenoidal composition of G. lucidum and its roles in the prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and triple-negative breast cancer.
Diagnostic Improvements of Deep Learning–Based Image Reconstruction for Assessing Calcification-Related Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Yi Yan , Xu Cheng , Xu Min , Yan Jing , Li Yan-Yu , Wang Jian , Yang Si-Jie , Guo Yu-Bo , Wang Yun , Li Yu-Mei , Jin Zheng-Yu , Wang Yi-Ning
Published: November 2021

Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore the diagnostic value of deep learning-based image reconstruction (DLR) and hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR) for calcification-related obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) evaluation by using coronary CT angiography (CCTA) images and subtraction CCTA images.

Methods: Forty-two consecutive patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease who underwent coronary CTA on a 320-row CT scanner and subsequent invasive coronary angiography (ICA), which was used as the reference standard, were enrolled. The DLR and HIR images were reconstructed as CTADLR and CTAHIR, and, based on which, the corresponding subtraction CCTA images were established as CTAsDLR and CTAsHIR, respectively. Qualitative images quality comparison was performed by using a Likert 4 stage score, and quantitative images quality parameters, including image noise, signal-to-noise ratio, and contrast-to-noise ratio were calculated. Diagnostic performance on the lesion level was assessed and compared among the four CCTA approaches (CTADLR, CTAHIR, CTAsDLR, and CTAsHIR).

Results: There were 166 lesions of 86 vessels in 42 patients (32 men and 10 women; 62.9 ± 9.3 years) finally enrolled for analysis. The qualitative and quantitative image qualities of CTAsDLR and CTADLR were superior to those of CTAsHIR and CTAHIR, respectively. The diagnostic accuracies of CTAsDLR, CTADLR, CTAsHIR, and CTAHIR to identify calcification-related obstructive diameter stenosis were 83.73%, 69.28%, 75.30%, and 65.66%, respectively. The false-positive rates of CTAsDLR, CTADLR, CTAsHIR, and CTAHIR for luminal diameter stenosis ≥50% were 15%, 31%, 24%, and 34%, respectively. The sensitivity and the specificity to identify ≥50% luminal diameter stenosis was 90.91% and 83.23% for CTAsDLR.

Conclusion: Our study showed that deep learning–based image reconstruction could improve the image quality of CCTA images and diagnostic performance for calcification-related obstructive CAD, especially when combined with subtraction technique.
Aromatic Clusters as Potential Hydrogen Storage Materials
Authors: Pal Ranita , Chattaraj Pratim Kumar
Published: November 2021

The scientific community is engrossed in the thought of a probable solution to the future energy crisis keeping in mind a better environment-friendly alternative. Although there are many such alternatives, the green hydrogen energy has occupied most of the brilliant minds due to its abundance and numerous production resources. For the advancement of hydrogen economy, Government agencies are funding pertinent research projects. There is an avalanche of molecular systems which are studied by several chemists for storing atomic and molecular hydrogens. The present review on molecular hydrogen storage focuses on all-metal and nonmetal aromatic clusters. In addition to the effect of aromaticity on hydrogen trapping potential of different molecular moieties, the importance of using the conceptual density functional theory based reactivity descriptors is also highlighted. Investigations from our group have been revealing the fact that several aromatic metal clusters, metal doped nonmetal clusters as well as pure nonmetal clusters can serve as potential molecular hydrogen trapping agents. Reported systems include N4Li2, N6Ca2 clusters, Mgn, and Can (n = 8–10) cage-like moieties, B12N12 clathrate, transition metal doped ethylene complexes, M3+ (M = Li, Na) ions, E3-M2 (E = Be, Mg, Al; M = Li, Na, K) clusters, Li3Al4− ions, Li decorated star-like molecules, BxLiy (x = 3–6; y = 1, 2), Li-doped annular forms, Li-doped borazine derivatives, C12N12 clusters (N4C3H)6Li6 and associated 3-D functional material, cucurbiturils, lithium–phosphorus double-helices. Ni bound C12N12 moieties are also reported recently.
Profiling Antibody Response Patterns in COVID-19: Spike S1-Reactive IgA Signature in the Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Siracusano Gabriel , Brombin Chiara , Pastori Claudia , Cugnata Federica , Noviello Maddalena , Tassi Elena , Princi Denise , Cantoni Diego , Malnati Mauro S. , Maugeri Norma , Bozzi Carla , Saretto Gianni , Clementi Nicola , Mancini Nicasio , Uberti-Foppa Caterina , Temperton Nigel , Bonini Chiara , Di Serio Clelia , Lopalco Lucia
Published: November 2021

This contribution explores in a new statistical perspective the antibody responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in 141 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients exhibiting a broad range of clinical manifestations. This cohort accurately reflects the characteristics of the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Italy. We determined the IgM, IgA, and IgG levels towards SARS-CoV-2 S1, S2, and NP antigens, evaluating their neutralizing activity and relationship with clinical signatures. Moreover, we longitudinally followed 72 patients up to 9 months postsymptoms onset to study the persistence of the levels of antibodies. Our results showed that the majority of COVID-19 patients developed an early virus-specific antibody response. The magnitude and the neutralizing properties of the response were heterogeneous regardless of the severity of the disease. Antibody levels dropped over time, even though spike reactive IgG and IgA were still detectable up to 9 months. Early baseline antibody levels were key drivers of the subsequent antibody production and the long-lasting protection against SARS-CoV-2. Importantly, we identified anti-S1 IgA as a good surrogate marker to predict the clinical course of COVID-19. Characterizing the antibody response after SARS-CoV-2 infection is relevant for the early clinical management of patients as soon as they are diagnosed and for implementing the current vaccination strategies.
Exogenous HMGB1 Promotes the Proliferation and Metastasis of Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhu Li , Ren Shuai , Daniels Marcus J. , Qiu Wenli , Song Lian , You Tao , Wang Dongqing , Wang Zhongqiu
Published: November 2021

Background: Exogenous HMGB1 plays a vital role in tumor recurrence, and HMGB1 is ubiquitous in the tumor microenvironment. However, the mechanism of action is still unclear. We investigated the role of exogenous HMGB1 in tumor proliferation and metastasis using human SW1990 and PANC-1 cells after radiotherapy and explored the possible molecular mechanism.

Materials and Methods: Residual PANC-1 cells and SW1990 cells were isolated after radiotherapy. The supernatant after radiotherapy was collected. The relative expression of HMGB1 was evaluated by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Electron microscope (EMS) was used to collect the images of pancreatic cancer cells pre and post radiotherapy treatment. The proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells which were treated with different radiation doses was measured by Carboxy Fluorescein Succinimidyl Ester (CFSE). The migration rates of pancreatic cancer cells were measured by wound healing assays. Subsequently, the expression of related proteins was detected by Western Blot. In vivo, the subcutaneous pancreatic tumor models of nude mice were established, and therapeutic capabilities were tested.

Results: HMGB1 was detected in the supernatant of pancreatic cancer cells after radiotherapy. The results of CFSE showed that exogenous HMGB1 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells. The western blot results showed activation of p-GSK 3β and up-regulation of N-CA, Bcl-2, and Ki67 in response to HMGB1 stimulation, while E-CA expression was down-regulated in pancreatic cancer cells in response to HMGB1 stimulation. In vivo, ethyl pyruvate (EP, HMGB1 inhibitor) inhibits the growth of tumors and HMGB1 promotes the proliferation of tumors after radiation.

Conclusion: Radiotherapy induces HMGB1 release into the extracellular space. Exogenous HMGB1 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of PANC-1 cells and SW1990 cells by activation of p-GSK 3β which is mediated by Wnt pathway.
Post-Transcriptional Regulation of RseA by Small RNAs RyhB and FnrS in Escherichia coli
Authors: London Laricca Y. , Aubee Joseph I , Nurse Jalisa , Thompson Karl M
Published: November 2021

RseA is the critical central regulator of the σE-dependent stress response in E. coli and other related bacteria. The synthesis of RseA is controlled at the transcriptional level by several promoters and transcriptional regulators, including σE itself at two σE-dependent promoters: rpoEP and rseAP3. The presence of these two independent polycistrons encoding rseA is potentially redundant. We hypothesized that post-transcriptional control of the rseAP3 transcript was necessary to overcome this redundancy. However, to date, nothing is known about the post-transcriptional control of the rseAP3 transcript. We executed a targeted genetic screen to identify small RNA regulators of the rseAP3 transcript and identified RyhB and FnrS as small RNA activators of the RseA P3 transcript. Through genetic analysis, we confirmed that a direct interaction occurs between RyhB and RseA. We also identified sequences within the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) of RseA that were inhibitory for RseA expression. Point mutations predicted to prevent an interaction between RyhB and RseA resulted in increased RseA expression. Taken together, this suggests that the 5’ UTR of the RseAP3 transcript prevents optimal expression of RseA, preventing redundancy due to RseA expression from the σE-dependent rpoEP, and this is overcome by the stimulatory activity of RyhB and FnrS.
Subjective Memory Complaints and Decision Making in Young and Older Adults: An Event-Related Potential Study
Authors: Garrido-Chaves Ruth , Perez Vanesa , Perez-Alarcón Mario , Crespo-Sanmiguel Isabel , Paiva Tiago O. , Hidalgo Vanesa , Pulopulos Matias M. , Salvador Alicia
Published: November 2021

Subjective memory complaints (SMCs) may affect decision-making processes. This study aimed to investigate the neuronal correlates of feedback processing during a decision-making task in young and older adults with and without SMCs. Event-related potentials and behavioral performance during the Iowa gambling task were recorded in a total of 136 participants (65 young adults, 71 older adults). The participants were divided into two groups according to their SMCs (with SMCs: n = 60, without SMCs: n = 76). Feedback-related negativity (FRN) and P3 were analyzed in the feedback stage of the decision-making process. Older adults with SMCs scored worse in the ambiguity phase than older adults without SMCs. The FRN latency was longer for losses in older people with SMCs than in older people without SMCs in the first block. No significant differences between young and older adults with and without SMCs were observed in the other ERP measures. Compared to young adults, older adults showed delayed latency in the FRN component and reduced amplitudes and delayed latency in the P3 component. In conclusion, older people with SMCs present deficits in the decision-making process. These deficits are observed at the behavioral level, but also in neural mechanisms of early feedback processing of negative outcomes.
Eculizumab Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics in Patients With Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Singh Pratap , Gao Xiang , Kleijn Huub Jan , Bellanti Francesco , Pelto Ryan
Published: November 2021

Objective: To investigate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the approved 900/1,200 mg dosing regimen for the terminal complement component 5 (C5) inhibitor eculizumab in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Methods: Data were analyzed from 95 patients with aquaporin-4-IgG-positive NMOSD who received eculizumab during the PREVENT study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01892345). Relationships were explored between eculizumab exposure and free complement C5 concentrations, terminal complement activity, and clinical outcomes.

Results: Pharmacokinetic data were well-described by a two-compartment model with first-order elimination, and time-variant body-weight and plasmapheresis/plasma exchange effects. Steady-state serum eculizumab concentrations were achieved by Week 4 and were sustained, with serum trough eculizumab concentrations maintained above the 116 μg/ml threshold for complete complement inhibition throughout 168 weeks of treatment in all post-baseline samples from 89% of patients. Complete inhibition of terminal complement was achieved at Day 1 peak and pre-dosing trough eculizumab concentration in nearly all post-baseline samples assessed (free C5 <0.5 μg/ml in all post-baseline samples from 96% of patients; in vitro hemolysis <20% in all post-baseline samples from 93% of patients). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis of time to first relapse showed separation of eculizumab-treated patients from those receiving placebo, but no separation based on eculizumab exposure quartile, indicating an optimized dose regimen with maximized efficacy.

Conclusions: The approved eculizumab dosing regimen (900/1,200 mg) for adults with aquaporin-4-IgG-positive NMOSD is confirmed by rigorous quantitative model-based analysis of exposure–response. The data demonstrate that eculizumab's mechanism of action translates into clinical effect by achieving rapid, complete, and sustained terminal complement inhibition.
Cross-Sectional Area Reference Values for Sonography of Peripheral Nerves in Taiwanese Adults
Authors: Hsieh Pei-Chen , Chang Kuo-Hsuan , Wu Yih-Ru , Ro Long-Sun , Chu Chun-Che , Lyu Rong-Kuo , Liao Ming-Feng , Kuo Hung-Chou
Published: November 2021

Background: Neuromuscular ultrasound is a complementary technology that aids in the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy. The interpretation of neuromuscular ultrasound results requires the use of accurate normative cross-sectional area (CSA) reference values. This study aims to provide CSA reference values specific to Taiwanese adults for Sonography of peripheral nerves in the upper and lower extremities.

Methods: The study cohort included 66 healthy subjects (36 women; 30 men). A linear probe was used to measure the CSA of the median, ulnar, radial, tibial, sural, and peroneal nerves at multiple sites. These data were analyzed to determine standard ranges for the CSA at each site (reference range = mean ± 2 × SD) and identify correlations between the CSA and patient characteristics.

Results: Normative CSA ranges were determined for all the assessed nerve sites, revealing that the nerve sizes in this Taiwanese population were smaller than Caucasian populations but comparable to those reported for other Asian cohorts. Men tended to have larger nerves than women, even after adjusting for height and weight. The size of ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel and the peroneal nerve in the popliteal fossa correlated negatively with increasing age. The nerve size correlated positively with increasing weight and BMI at several sites, correlation of median nerve in the forearm with weight and BMI was significant after multiple testing. Significant correlation was also found between size of ulnar nerve in cubital tunnel and decreasing height.

Conclusion: We provide reference ranges for neuromuscular ultrasound CSA values for the upper and lower extremities that are specific to the Taiwanese population. These reference values may be useful for evaluating peripheral neuropathy in Taiwanese subjects.
Cortical Thickness of Brain Areas Beyond Stroke Lesions and Sensory-Motor Recovery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cortese Anna Maria , Cacciante Luisa , Schuler Anna-Lisa , Turolla Andrea , Pellegrino Giovanni
Published: November 2021

Background: The clinical outcome of patients suffering from stroke is dependent on multiple factors. The features of the lesion itself play an important role but clinical recovery is remarkably influenced by the plasticity mechanisms triggered by the stroke and occurring at a distance from the lesion. The latter translate into functional and structural changes of which cortical thickness might be easy to quantify one of the main players. However, studies on the changes of cortical thickness in brain areas beyond stroke lesion and their relationship to sensory-motor recovery are sparse.

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of cerebral stroke on cortical thickness (CT) beyond the stroke lesion and its association with sensory-motor recovery.

Materials and Methods: Five electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus and the Cochrane Library) were searched. Methodological quality of the included studies was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for non-randomized controlled trials and the Risk of Bias Cochrane tool for randomized controlled trials.

Results: The search strategy retrieved 821 records, 12 studies were included and risk of bias assessed. In most of the included studies, cortical thinning was seen at the ipsilesional motor area (M1). Cortical thinning can occur beyond the stroke lesion, typically in regions anatomically connected because of anterograde degeneration. Nonetheless, studies also reported cortical thickening of regions of the unaffected hemisphere, likely related to compensatory plasticity. Some studies revealed a significant correlation between changes in cortical thickness of M1 or somatosensory (S1) cortical areas and motor function recovery.

Discussion and Conclusions: Following a stroke, changes in cortical thickness occur both in regions directly connected to the stroke lesion and in contralateral hemisphere areas as well as in the cerebellum. The underlying mechanisms leading to these changes in cortical thickness are still to be fully understood and further research in the field is needed.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42020200539; PROSPERO 2020, identifier: CRD42020200539.
Clinical Relevance and Prognostic Value of the Neuronal Protein Neuroligin 2 in Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Gang , Sun Yi , Wu Zheng-sheng , Huang Xing
Published: November 2021

Neuroligin 2 (NLGN2) is a well-recognized transmembrane scaffolding protein that functions in synapse development and neuronal signal transduction. It has recently been implicated in multiple diseases of peripheral ectodermal origin. However, the potential roles of NLGN2 in tumors remain ill-defined. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical relevance and prognostic value of NLGN2 in breast cancer. To this end, breast cancer datasets were extracted from TCGA and other public databases, and subjected to Kaplan-Meier potter for survival analysis, GEPIA2 for assessing the immunological relevance of NLGN2 and THPA for identifying its subcellular localization. The in-silico results were further validated by immunohistochemistry analysis of in-house tumor tissue specimens. NLGN2 was identified as a prognostic factor in breast cancer subtypes, and its high expression correlated to a favorable survival outcome. Moreover, NLGN2 overexpression in breast cancer was significantly associated with large tumor size, lymph node metastasis, late TNM stage, and high histological grade. Interestingly, there was a significant correlation between the expression level of NLGN2 and the immunomodulatory molecules, along with increased interstitial infiltration of lymphocytes. Furthermore, NLGN2 was predominantly localized in the mitochondria of breast cancer cells. In conclusion, NLGN2 has a prognostic role and immunoregulatory potential in breast cancer, and its functions likely have a mitochondrial basis. It is a promising therapeutic target in breast cancer and should be explored further.
Establishment of Tumor Treating Fields Combined With Mild Hyperthermia as Novel Supporting Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Bai Liping , Pfeifer Tobias , Gross Wolfgang , De La Torre Carolina , Zhao Shuyang , Liu Li , Schaefer Michael , Herr Ingrid
Published: November 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant tumor with poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Alternating electrical fields with low intensity called “Tumor Treating Fields” (TTFields) are a new, non-invasive approach with almost no side effects and phase 3 trials are ongoing in advanced PDAC. We evaluated TTFields in combination with mild hyperthermia. Three established human PDAC cell lines and an immortalized pancreatic duct cell line were treated with TTFields and hyperthermia at 38.5°C, followed by microscopy, assays for MTT, migration, colony and sphere formation, RT-qPCR, FACS, Western blot, microarray and bioinformatics, and in silico analysis using the online databases GSEA, KEGG, Cytoscape-String, and Kaplan-Meier Plotter. Whereas TTFields and hyperthermia alone had weak effects, their combination strongly inhibited the viability of malignant, but not those of nonmalignant cells. Progression features and the cell cycle were impaired, and autophagy was induced. The identified target genes were key players in autophagy, the cell cycle and DNA repair. The expression profiles of part of these target genes were significantly involved in the survival of PDAC patients. In conclusion, the combination of TTFields with mild hyperthermia results in greater efficacy without increased toxicity and could be easily clinically approved as supporting therapy.
The Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Anthropometric and Biochemical Indices in Patients With Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Rezaei Shahla , Tabrizi Reza , Nowrouzi-Sohrabi Peyman , Jalali Mohammad , Shabani-Borujeni Mojtaba , Modaresi Shayan , Gholamalizadeh Maryam , Doaei Saeid
Published: November 2021

Background: Vitamin D was reported to be associated with non−alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This systematic review and meta−analysis aimed to investigate the effects of the vitamin D supplementation on anthropometric and biochemical indices in patient with NAFLD.

Methods: PubMed, Web of science, Scopus, and Embase databases were explored to identify all randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigating the effects of vitamin D supplementation on anthropometric and biochemical indices in patients with NAFLD. A random−effects model was used to pool weighted mean difference (WMD) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The statistical heterogeneity among the studies was assessed using I2 statistic (high ≥ 50%, low < 50%) and Cochran’s Q−test.

Results: Sixteen RCTs were included in this meta−analysis. The results identified that high−density lipoprotein−cholesterol (HDL−C) level significantly increased following vitamin D supplementation (P = 0.008). Vitamin D reduced body weight (P = 0.007), body mass index (P = 0.002), waist circumstance (WC) (P = 0.02), serum alanine transaminase (ALT) (P = 0.01), fasting blood sugar (FBS) (P = 0.01), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA−IR) (P = 0.004), and calcium (P = 0.01). No significant changes were found on body fat, triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol, low−density lipoprotein−cholesterol (LDL−C), aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma−glutamyl transferase, and adiponectin following vitamin D supplementation.

Conclusion: Vitamin D had significant effects on anthropometric and biochemical indices including HDL−C, body weight, BMI, WC, serum ALT, serum FBS, HOMA−IR, and calcium. Vitamin D supplementation can be considered as an effective strategy in management of patients with NAFLD.

Systematic Review Registration: [website], identifier [registration number]
Genome-Wide Identification of Wheat ZIP Gene Family and Functional Characterization of the TaZIP13-B in Plants
Authors: Li Song , Liu Zihui , Guo Linlin , Li Hongjie , Nie Xiaojun , Chai Shoucheng , Zheng Weijun
Published: November 2021

The ZIP (Zn-regulated, iron-regulated transporter-like protein) transporter plays an important role in regulating the uptake, transport, and accumulation of microelements in plants. Although some studies have identified ZIP genes in wheat, the significance of this family is not well understood, particularly its involvement under Fe and Zn stresses. In this study, we comprehensively characterized the wheat ZIP family at the genomic level and performed functional verification of three TaZIP genes by yeast complementary analysis and of TaZIP13-B by transgenic Arabidopsis. Totally, 58 TaZIP genes were identified based on the genome-wide search against the latest wheat reference (IWGSC_V1.1). They were then classified into three groups, based on phylogenetic analysis, and the members within the same group shared the similar exon-intron structures and conserved motif compositions. Expression pattern analysis revealed that the most of TaZIP genes were highly expressed in the roots, and nine TaZIP genes displayed high expression at grain filling stage. When exposed to ZnSO4 and FeCl3 solutions, the TaZIP genes showed differential expression patterns. Additionally, six ZIP genes responded to zinc-iron deficiency. A total of 57 miRNA-TaZIP interactions were constructed based on the target relationship, and three miRNAs were downregulated when exposed to the ZnSO4 and FeCl3 stresses. Yeast complementation analysis proved that TaZIP14-B, TaZIP13-B, and TaIRT2-A could transport Zn and Fe. Finally, overexpression of TaZIP13-B in Arabidopsis showed that the transgenic plants displayed better tolerance to Fe/Zn stresses and could enrich more metallic elements in their seeds than wild-type Arabidopsis. This study systematically analyzed the genomic organization, gene structure, expression profiles, regulatory network, and the biological function of the ZIP family in wheat, providing better understanding of the regulatory roles of TaZIPs and contributing to improve nutrient quality in wheat crops.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Associated Factors 1 Year After the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Chinese Residents
Authors: Shen Xin , Yan Shijiao , Jiang Heng , Cao Hui , Dowling Rowan , Feng Jing , Lei Zihui , Li Crystal Jingru , Han Xiaotong , Lv Chuanzhu , Gan Yong
Published: November 2021

Background: By investigating the incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among residents during a period of low transmission, this study reflects the long-term impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and identify which categories of residents are more likely to develop PTSD due to an acute infectious disease crisis, facilitating the development of targeted strategies to protect mental health after outbreaks of similar acute infectious diseases in the future.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in China from 4 to 26 February 2021. A convenience sampling strategy was adopted to recruit participants. Participants were asked to complete the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). A multivariable linear stepwise regression analysis model was used to identify which factors were associated with PTSD in residents of China.

Results: A total of 2,361 Chinese residents completed the questionnaire. The mean PCL-5 score for the respondents was 13.65 (SD = 8.66), with 219 (9.28%) patients having probable PTSD symptoms. Respondents who were female (β = 0.038), had a relative or friend who had contracted COVID-19 (β = 0.041), and had poor health (β = 0.184) had higher PCL-5 scores, while the population aged over 60 years (β = −0.063), who agreed that COVID-19 information was released in a timely manner (β = −0.347), who had experienced a relatively limited impact of COVID-19 on their life (β = −0.069), and who agreed that the local prevention initiatives were sophisticated (β = −0.165) had lower PTSD scores.

Conclusions: Outbreaks of acute infectious diseases can have long-term psychological health effects in the general population. In addition, health policy makers need to be concerned about and implement measures to support the mental health of vulnerable groups.
Study on Livelihood Vulnerability and Adaptation Strategies of Farmers in Areas Threatened by Different Disaster Types under Climate Change
Authors: Yang Xue , Guo Shili , Deng Xin , Wang Wei , Xu Dingde
Published: November 2021

The intensification of global climate change leads to frequent mountain torrents, landslides, debris flows and other disasters, which seriously threaten the safety of residents’ lives and property. However, few studies have compared and analyzed the livelihood vulnerability and adaptation strategies of farmers in different disaster-threatened areas under the background of climate change. Based on survey data of 327 households in the areas threatened by mountain floods, landslides and debris flow in Sichuan Province, this study analyzed the characteristics of livelihood vulnerability and adaptation strategies of households in the areas threatened by different disaster types and constructed multinomial logistic regression models to explore their correlations. The findings show that: (1) The livelihood vulnerability indices of farmers in different hazard types showed different characteristics. Among them, the livelihood vulnerability index of farmers in landslide-threatened zones is the highest, followed by the livelihood vulnerability index of farmers in debris-flow-threatened zones, and finally the livelihood vulnerability index of farmers in flash flood threat zones. At the same time, all three natural hazards show a trend of higher vulnerability in the sensitivity dimension than in the exposure and livelihood resilience dimensions. (2) The nonfarming livelihood strategy is the main livelihood strategy for farmers in different disaster-type-threatened areas. At the same time, the vulnerability of farmers choosing the nonfarming livelihood strategy is much higher than that of farmers choosing the part-time livelihood strategy and pure farming livelihood strategy, and the vulnerability of sensitivity dimension is higher than that of the exposure dimension and livelihood resilience dimension. (3) For farmers in landslide- and debris-flow-threatened areas, livelihood resilience is an important factor affecting their livelihood strategy. There was a positive correlation between livelihood resilience and farmers’ choice of pure agricultural livelihood strategies in these two natural-disaster-threatened areas. This study deepens our understanding of the characteristics and relationships of farmers’ livelihood vulnerability and adaptation strategies under different disaster types in the context of climate change, and then provides the reference basis for the formulation of livelihood-adaptive capacity promotion-related policy.