bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indentification of novel MSTO1 compound heterozygous mutations in a Chinese family with recessive cerebellar atrophy and ataxia
Authors: Chen Jia , Xiao Junfang , Chen Ge , Xu Qiang , Wu Xingwu , Tian Lifeng , Huang Zhihui , Xin Cailin , Zhao Yan , Guo Zhen , Zou Yang , Wu Qiongfang
Published: November 2022

Misato mitochondrial distribution and morphology regulator 1 (MSTO1) is a nuclear-encoded cytoplasmic protein involved in mitochondrial fusion and distribution. Its disruption causes an extremely rare mitochondrial disorder characterized by early-onset myopathy and cerebellar ataxia. The genotype-phenotype correlation in the MSTO1 gene is rarely studied before 2017, and only 25 mutations have been described in the patients. Here, we reported two siblings with progressive cerebellar atrophy and ataxia in a Chinese family. Two compound heterozygous mutations in the MSTO1 gene, a novel missense mutation c.571C>T (p.Arg191Trp), and a reported frameshift mutation c.1259delG (p.Gly420ValfsTer2) were identified in the patients by whole exome sequencing. in vitro experiments found both of the mutations lead to reduced protein abundance and link to decreased mtDNA content. Except for ataxia and delayed motor, both of the siblings also have low birth weights, learning difficulties, and dysarthria. Our report enriched the genotype and phenotype spectrums of the MSTO1-related disorder and supported the recessive inheritance of the disease.
Optimal modes of mind-body exercise for treating chronic non-specific low back pain: Systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Shi Jian , Hu Zheng-Yu , Wen Yu-Rong , Wang Ya-Fei , Lin Yang-Yang , Zhao Hao-Zhi , Lin You-Tian , Wang Yu-Ling
Published: November 2022

Background

There were limited studies that directly compare the outcomes of various mind-body exercise (MBE) therapies on chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP).

Objectives

To compare the efficacy of the four most popular MBE modes [Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi (TC), and Qigong] in clinically CNLBP patients, we conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA).

Methods

We searched databases for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (from origin to July 2022). RCTs were eligible if they included adults with CNLBP, and implemented one or more MBE intervention arms using Pilates, yoga, TC, and qigong. In addition, pain intensity and physical function were evaluated using validated questionnaires.

Results

NMA was carried out on 36 eligible RCTs involving 3,050 participants. The effect of exercise therapy on pain was in the following rankings: Pilates [Surface under cumulative ranking (SUCRA) = 86.6%], TC (SUCRA = 77.2%), yoga (SUCRA = 67.6%), and qigong (SUCRA = 64.6%). The effect of exercise therapy on function: Pilates (SUCRA = 98.4%), qigong (SUCRA = 61.6%,), TC (SUCRA = 59.5%) and yoga (SUCRA = 59.0%).

Conclusion

Our NMA shows that Pilates might be the best MBE therapy for CNLBP in pain intensity and physical function. TC is second only to Pilates in improving pain in patients with CNLBP and has the value of promotion. In the future, we need more high-quality, long-term follow-up RCTs to confirm our findings.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=306905, identifier: CRD42022306905.
Effect of incorporation of wheat bran, rice bran and banana peel powder on the mesostructure and physicochemical characteristics of biscuits
Authors: Ayoub Wani Suhana , Zahoor Insha , Dar Aamir Hussain , Anjum Nadira , Pandiselvam R. , Farooq Salma , Rusu Alexandru Vasile , Rocha João Miguel , Trif Monica , Jeevarathinam G.
Published: November 2022

Various types of natural fiber-rich ingredients are added into bakery-based products to improve their fiber content for health promotional purposes. But the majority of these products usually include exotic dietary fiber components. The aim of this study was to develop biscuits incorporated with wheat bran, rice bran and banana peel powder and to evaluate the effects on physicochemical properties and sensory acceptability of these different biscuit samples. Wheat bran, rice bran and banana peel powder was used to substitute refined wheat flour in biscuit samples at different levels (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30%). The effect of wheat bran, rice bran and banana peel powder incorporation on proximate composition, physical characteristics, texture profile, color and sensory evaluation of biscuit samples were investigated. The moisture content of the product showed a significant (p ≤ 0.01) decreasing trend while as protein showed increasing trend with increasing level of incorporation of wheat bran, rice bran and banana peel powder. Also there was a considerable effect on L*(darkness to lightness), a*(greeness to redness), and b*(blueness to yellowness) values of biscuit samples. Among the physical parameters diameter and thickness decreased non-significantly (p ≤ 0.01) with the addition of different fibers whereas spread ratio and weight increases. Sensory attributes showed a significant (p ≤ 0.01) increasing trend with an increase in the level of incorporation of different fibers. Based on sensory evaluation biscuits prepared with 15% wheat bran, 15% rice bran, and 10% banana peel powder were rated best. The biscuits were packed in high density polyethylene (HDPE) boxes and were analyzed on different intervals viz. 0, 30, and 60th day. In samples of optimized biscuits, the ash content, protein, fat and color exhibited a non- significant tendency of declining over storage. It was discovered that the ash content dropped from0.86 to 0.67% in Wb4, 0.95 to 0.75% in Rb4, and 1.15to 0.92% in Bpp3. However there was a considerable increase in moisture content during storage.
Development and validation of a prognostic 9-gene signature for colorectal cancer
Authors: Cui Junpeng , Guo Fangyu , Yu Yifan , Ma Zihuan , Hong Yuting , Su Junyan , Ge Yang
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers globally with a high mortality rate. Predicting prognosis using disease progression and cancer pathologic stage is insufficient, and a prognostic factor that can accurately evaluate patient prognosis needs to be developed. In this study, we aimed to infer a prognostic gene signature to identify a functional signature associated with the prognosis of CRC patients.

Methods

First, we used univariate Cox regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (lasso) regression, and multivariate Cox regression analyses to screen genes significantly associated with CRC patient prognosis, from colorectal cancer RNA sequencing data in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. We then calculated the risk score (RS) for each patient based on the expression of the nine candidate genes and developed a prognostic signature.

Results

Based on the optimal cut-off on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, patients were separated into high- and low-risk groups, and the difference in overall survival between the two groups was examined. Patients in the low-risk group had a better overall survival rate than those in the high-risk group. The results were validated using the GSE72970, GSE39582, and GSE17536 Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets, and the same conclusions were reached. ROC curve test of the RS signature also indicated that it had excellent accuracy. The RS signature was then compared with traditional clinical factors as a prognostic indicator, and we discovered that the RS signature had superior predictive ability.

Conclusion

The RS signature developed in this study has excellent predictive power for the prognosis of patients with CRC and broad applicability as a prognostic indicator for patients.
Prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT radiomic model based on primary tumor in patients with non-small cell lung cancer: A large single-center cohort study
Authors: Li Jihui , Zhang Bin , Ge Shushan , Deng Shengming , Hu Chunhong , Sang Shibiao
Published: November 2022

Objectives

In the present study, we aimed to determine the prognostic value of the 18F-FDG PET/CT-based radiomics model when predicting progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

A total of 368 NSCLC patients who underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT before treatment were randomly assigned to the training (n = 257) and validation (n = 111) cohorts. Radiomics signatures from PET and CT images were obtained using LIFEx software, and then clinical and complex models were constructed and validated by selecting optimal parameters based on PFS and OS to construct radiomics signatures.

Results

In the training cohort, the C-index of the clinical model for predicting PFS and OS in NSCLC patients was 0.748 and 0.834, respectively, and the AUC values ​​were 0.758 and 0.846, respectively. The C-index of the complex model for predicting PFS and OS was 0.775 and 0.881, respectively, and the AUC values ​​were 0.780 and 0.891, respectively. The C-index of the clinical model for predicting PFS and OS in the validation group was 0.729 and 0.832, respectively, and the AUC values ​​were 0.776 and 0.850, respectively. The C-index of the complex model for predicting PFS and OS was 0.755 and 0.867, respectively, and the AUC values ​​were 0.791 and 0.874, respectively. Moreover, decision curve analysis showed that the complex model had a higher net benefit than the clinical model.

Conclusions

18F-FDG PET/CT radiomics before treatment could predict PFS and OS in NSCLC patients, and the predictive power was higher when combined with clinical factors.
Malignant pleural effusion: Updates in diagnosis, management and current challenges
Authors: Addala Dinesh Narayan , Kanellakis Nikolaos I. , Bedawi Eihab O. , Dong Tao , Rahman Najib M.
Published: November 2022

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common condition which often causes significant symptoms to patients and costs to healthcare systems. Over the past decade, the management of MPE has progressed enormously with large scale, randomised trials answering key questions regarding optimal diagnostic strategies and effective management strategies. Despite a number of management options, including talc pleurodesis, indwelling pleural catheters and combinations of the two, treatment for MPE remains symptom directed and centered around drainage strategy. The future goals for providing improved care for patients lies in changing the treatment paradigm from a generic pathway to personalised care, based on probability of malignancy type and survival. This article reviews the current evidence base, new discoveries and future directions in the diagnosis and management of MPE.
Glutamine metabolism and radiosensitivity: Beyond the Warburg effect
Authors: Alden Ryan S. , Kamran Mohammad Zahid , Bashjawish Bassel A. , Simone Brittany A.
Published: November 2022

Mounting data suggest that cancer cell metabolism can be utilized therapeutically to halt cell proliferation, metastasis and disease progression. Radiation therapy is a critical component of cancer treatment in curative and palliative settings. The use of metabolism-based therapeutics has become increasingly popular in combination with radiotherapy to overcome radioresistance. Over the past year, a focus on glutamine metabolism in the setting of cancer therapy has emerged. In this mini-review, we discuss several important ways (DNA damage repair, oxidative stress, epigenetic modification and immune modulation) glutamine metabolism drives cancer growth and progression, and present data that inhibition of glutamine utilization can lead to radiosensitization in preclinical models. Future research is needed in the clinical realm to determine whether glutamine antagonism is a feasible synergistic therapy that can be combined with radiotherapy.
Circulating tumor cell associated white blood cell cluster as a biomarker for metastasis and recurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Jing , Luo Yuhong , Xi Xiaoxue , Li Haixia , Li Shufen , Zheng Lei , Yang Dinghua , Cai Zhen
Published: November 2022

Background

Recently, an in vivo study demonstrated that circulating tumor cell-associated white blood cell (CTC-WBC) cluster possess much greater potential than single CTCs. We aim to explore the correlation between the CTC-WBC cluster and the clinicopathological characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients to seek novel biomarkers for HCC metastasis and recurrence.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 136 HCC patients from October 2014 to March 2020 who received CTC tests using the CanPatrol CTC enrichment technique. The correlation between the clinical features and total CTCs, EMT-CTCs, and CTC-WBC cluster were analyzed by a chi-square test. The ROC curves were simulated for evaluating the diagnostic performance of CTC parameters in HCC metastasis. Patients were followed up from February 2015 to November 2021, and the relapse-free survival (RFS) was analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier curve.

Results

A total of 93.4% (127/136) and 31.6% (43/136) of HCC patients had detectable CTCs and CTC-WBC clusters. Baseline CTC-WBC cluster was closely correlated with microvascular invasion, portal vein tumor thrombus, and extrahepatic metastasis in pre-treatment HCC patients (P <0.05). The simulated ROC curves presented an AUC of 0.821 for the CTC-WBC cluster (sensitivity of 90.0% and specificity of 93.7%) in discriminating metastasis from non-metastatic HCC, which was higher than that for total CTCs (0.718) and EMT-CTCs (0.716). Further follow-up analysis showed that compared to the CTC-WBC cluster negative group (<1/5 ml), patients in the CTC-WBC cluster positive group (≥1/5 ml) presented an increased relapse ratio (60.0% versus 17.9%) and shorter RFS (22.9 versus 53.8 months). Dynamic analysis of CTCs parameters showed that total CTC level, EMT-CTCs proportion, and CTC-WBC cluster were decreased after microwave ablation treatment, while CTC-WBC cluster increased on average 10 months in advance of imaging (MRI) diagnosed recurrence.

Conclusion

The CTC-WBC cluster is a promising biomarker for the metastasis diagnosis and prognosis of HCC metastasis. Dynamic monitoring of the CTC-WBC cluster is an effective method for early detection and intervention of HCC recurrence and metastasis.
Ultrasound to guided epicutaneo-caval catheter insertion in newborn infants
Authors: Ren Xiao-Ling , Wang Man , Wei Yu-Ru , Liu Jing
Published: November 2022

Objective

Recently, ultrasound (US) has been increasingly used for epicutaneo-caval catheter (ECC) tip positioning; however, the selection of blood vessels for ECC still depends on the operator’s subjective judgment. This study aimed to explore the value of US in decision-making regarding the great saphenous vein (GSV), tip navigation, and tip location of ECC.

Methods

Catheterization through the GSV of the lower extremity was selected. The running condition of the GSV was assessed by using US, and the angle between the GSV and the femoral vein was observed and measured. We selected the GSV with a smaller angle to the femoral vein for ECC catheterization.

Results

ECC catheterization under ultrasound guidance increased the success rate at the time of catheterization from 82.5% to 100% (increased by 17.5%) and shortened the catheterization time from 56.1 ± 5.30 min to 31.5 ± 2.58 min on average (shortened by 44%). The incidence rate of catheter-related complications decreased by 58.2% catheter days from 6.80/1,000 to 2.84/1,000.

Conclusion

ECC insertion under the guidance of US has numerous advantages, including significantly improving the success rate of one-time catheterization, shortening the time of catheterization, and reducing catheter-related complications.
Tailoring second-line or above therapy for patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer: A multicenter real-world study
Authors: Nie Caiyun , Xu Weifeng , Lv Huifang , Gao Xiaohui , Li Guofeng , Chen Beibei , Wang Jianzheng , Liu Yingjun , Zhao Jing , He Yunduan , Wang Saiqi , Chen Xiaobing
Published: November 2022

Background: There is currently still a lack of effective therapeutic manner after the failure of first-line therapy for patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of different treatment strategies as second-line or above therapy for patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer.

Methods: This was an observational multicenter real-world study. From January 2018 to December 2020, advanced or metastatic gastric cancer patients who have failed prior therapy were enrolled and treated with chemotherapy, anti-angiogenic TKIs (tyrosine kinase inhibitors) + chemotherapy or TKIs + ICIs (immune checkpoint inhibitors). In this study, progression free survival (PFS) was the primary end-point. Other evaluation indicators were objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS) and drug toxicities.

Results: 162 patients were enrolled, of which 61 patients received chemotherapy, 47 patients received TKIs plus chemotherapy, and 54 patients received TKIs + ICIs. No statistically significant difference existed in ORR among groups (16.4% vs. 19.1% vs. 18.5%, p = 0.924). Patients who received TKIs plus chemotherapy obtained better DCR compared with the chemotherapy group (78.7% vs. 54.1%, p = 0.008), and simultaneously, the median PFS (3.3 m vs. 2.8 m, p = 0.001) and OS (8.0 m vs. 5.8 m, p = 0.005) in TKIs plus chemotherapy group were superior to chemotherapy group. Consistent results were observed in subgroup analysis, including sex, age, ECOG, number of metastatic sites and treatment line. No statistically differences were found between TKIs + ICIs and the chemotherapy group concerning DCR (63.0% vs. 54.1%, p = 0.336), median PFS (3.0 m vs. 2.8 m, p = 0.051) and OS (5.2 m vs. 5.8 m, p = 0.260). Different treatment manner present a special spectrum of adverse events (AEs), and the incidence of Grade 3–4 AEs were 31.1%, 38.3% and 18.5%, respectively.

Conclusion: Compared with chemotherapy, anti-angiogenic TKIs plus chemotherapy demonstrated superior second-line or above therapeutic efficacy for advanced or metastatic gastric cancer with well tolerated toxicity. However, TKIs + ICIs failed to demonstrate a clinical advantage over chemotherapy.
Identification of SNPs associated with methotrexate treatment outcomes in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kolan Shrikant S. , Li Gaoyang , Grimolizzi Franco , Sexton Joe , Goll Guro , Kvien Tore K. , Sundlisæter Nina Paulshus , Zucknick Manuela , Lillegraven Siri , Haavardsholm Espen A. , Skålhegg Bjørn Steen
Published: November 2022

Methotrexate is one of the cornerstones of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy. Genetic factors or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are responsible for 15%–30% of the variation in drug response. Identification of clinically effective SNP biomarkers for predicting methotrexate (MTX) sensitivity has been a challenge. The aim of this study was to explore the association between the disease related outcome of MTX treatment and 23 SNPs in 8 genes of the MTX pathway, as well as one pro-inflammatory related gene in RA patients naïve to MTX. Categorical outcomes such as Disease Activity Score (DAS)-based European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) non-response at 4 months, The American College of Rheumatology and EULAR (ACR/EULAR) non-remission at 6 months, and failure to sustain MTX monotherapy from 12 to 24 months were assessed, together with continuous outcomes of disease activity, joint pain and fatigue. We found that the SNPs rs1801394 in the MTRR gene, rs408626 in DHFR gene, and rs2259571 in AIF-1 gene were significantly associated with disease activity relevant continuous outcomes. Additionally, SNP rs1801133 in the MTHFR gene was identified to be associated with improved fatigue. Moreover, associations with p values at uncorrected significance level were found in SNPs and different categorical outcomes: 1) rs1476413 in the MTHFR gene and rs3784864 in ABCC1 gene are associated with ACR/EULAR non-remission; 2) rs1801133 in the MTHFR gene is associated with EULAR response; 3) rs246240 in the ABCC1 gene, rs2259571 in the AIF-1 gene, rs2274808 in the SLC19A1 gene and rs1476413 in the MTHFR gene are associated with failure to MTX monotherapy after 12–24 months. The results suggest that SNPs in genes associated with MTX activity may be used to predict MTX relevant-clinical outcomes in patients with RA.
Case report: Personalized adapted motor activity in a COVID-19 patient complicated by critical illness polyneuropathy and myopathy
Authors: Crisafulli Oscar , Baroscelli Marta , Grattarola Luca , Tansini Giuseppe , Zampella Cristian , D’Antona Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Background: COVID-19 may require hospitalization in an intensive care unit (ICU) and is often associated with the onset of critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) and critical illness myopathy (CIM). Due to the spread of the disease around the world, the identification of new rehabilitation strategies for patients facing this sequence of events is of increasing importance.

Case presentation: We report the clinical presentation and the beneficial effects of a prolonged, supervised adapted motor activity (AMA) program in a highly deconditioned 61-year-old male COVID-19 patient discharged from the ICU and complicated by residual CIP and CIM. The program included aerobic, strength, gait, and balance training (1 h, 2 sessions per week).

Measures: Pulmonary (spirometry), metabolic (indirect calorimetry and bioimpedance), and neuromuscular functions (electromyography) were evaluated at baseline and after 1 year of training.

Results: Relative to baseline, an amelioration of several spirometric parameters such as vital capacity (VC, +40%), total lung capacity (TLC, +25%), and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1, +28%) was appreciable. Metabolic parameters such as body water (60%–46%), phase angle (3.6°–5.9°), and respiratory quotient (0.92–0.8) returned to the physiological range. Electromyographic parameters were substantially unchanged. The overall amelioration in clinical parameters resulted in a significant improvement of patient autonomy and the quality of life.

Conclusion: Our results highlight the importance of AMA for counteracting respiratory, metabolic, and functional but not neuromuscular impairments in COVID-19 patients with residual CIM and CIP.
Integrated physiological and weighted gene co-expression network analysis reveals the hub genes engaged in nitrate-regulated alleviation of ammonium toxicity at the seedling stage in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Li Liuyin , Zang Xiuzhi , Liu Jianbo , Ren Jinfeng , Wang Zhenlin , Yang Dongqing
Published: November 2022

Wheat has a specific preference for NO3- and shows toxicity symptoms under high NH4+ concentrations. Increasing the nitrate supply may alleviate ammonium stress. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying the nitrate regulation of wheat root growth to alleviate ammonium toxicity remain unclear. In this study, we integrated physiological and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify the hub genes involved in nitrate alleviation of ammonium toxicity at the wheat seedling stage. Five NH4+/NO3- ratio treatments, including 100/0 (Na), 75/25 (Nr1), 50/50 (Nr2), 25/75 (Nr3), and 0/100 (Nn) were tested in this study. The results showed that sole ammonium treatment (Na) increased the lateral root number but reduced root biomass. Increasing the nitrate supply significantly increased the root biomass. Increasing nitrate levels decreased abscisic acid (ABA) content and increased auxin (IAA) content. Furthermore, we identified two modules (blue and turquoise) using transcriptome data that were significantly related to root physiological growth indicators. TraesCS6A02G178000 and TraesCS2B02G056300 were identified as hub genes in the two modules which coded for plastidic ATP/ADP-transporter and WRKY62 transcription factors, respectively. Additionally, network analysis showed that in the blue module, TraesCS6A02G178000 interacts with downregulated genes that coded for indolin-2-one monooxygenase, SRG1, DETOXIFICATION, and wall-associated receptor kinase. In the turquoise module, TraesCS2B02G056300 was highly related to the genes that encoded ERD4, ERF109, CIGR2, and WD40 proteins, and transcription factors including WRKY24, WRKY22, MYB30, and JAMYB, which were all upregulated by increasing nitrate supply. These studies suggest that increasing the nitrate supply could improve root growth and alleviate ammonium toxicity through physiological and molecular regulation networks, including ROS, hormonal crosstalk, and transcription factors.
Pantranscriptome combined with phenotypic quantification reveals germplasm kinship and regulation network of bract color variation in Bougainvillea
Authors: Huang Huaxing , Ji Hongli , Ju Song , Lin Wei , Li Jing , Lv Xuanrui , Lin Lixian , Guo Lijin , Qiu Dongliang , Yan Jianyong , Ma Xiaokai
Published: November 2022

Bracts are the metamorphic non-flower organ in angiosperm plants. The variation of the color and shape of bracts was found to be neo-functionalized (i.e., similar to petals), garnering research interest as a pollinator attractor. Bougainvillea is known for its specialized, large, and colorful bracts, which contrast with its tiny colorless flowers. As a plant whose bracts vary greatly in terms of coloration, the molecular mechanisms for Bougainvillea bract coloration and polychroism are largely unknown. The lack of genomic information for Bougainvillea largely hinders studies into the evolution and genetic basis of bract color variation. In this study, a pan-transcriptome of bracts obtained from 18 Bougainvillea glabra accessions was employed to investigate the global population-level germplasm kinship and the gene regulation network for bract color variation. Our results showed that the bracts of B. glabra accessions have largely differentiated International Commission on Illumination (CIE) L-a-b values. Moreover, germplasm kinship detected using principal component analysis, phylogeny, and admixture analysis showed three optimal subgroups, two of them distinctly clustered, which were not directly correlated with bract color variation at the population level. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between accessions of high vs. low L-a-b values revealed several considerable upregulated genes related to bract color L-a-b variation. A weighted gene co-expression network was constructed, and eight co-expressed regulation modules were identified that were highly correlated with variation in bract CIE L-a-b color values. Several candidate DEGs and co-expressed hub genes (e.g., GERD, SGR, ABCA3, GST, CYP76AD1, CYP76C, and JAZ) that were tightly associated with bract color variation were eventually determined responsible for L-a-b colorations, which might be the core regulation factors contributing to the B. glabra bract color variation. This study provides valuable insights into the research on germplasm kinship, population-level pan-transcriptome expression profiles, and the molecular basis of color variation of key innovative bracts in horticultural Bougainvillea.
A non-destructive testing method for early detection of ginseng root diseases using machine learning technologies based on leaf hyperspectral reflectance
Authors: Zhao Guiping , Pei Yifei , Yang Ruoqi , Xiang Li , Fang Zihan , Wang Ye , Yin Dou , Wu Jie , Gao Dan , Yu Dade , Li Xiwen
Published: November 2022

Ginseng is an important medicinal plant benefiting human health for thousands of years. Root disease is the main cause of ginseng yield loss. It is difficult to detect ginseng root disease by manual observation on the changes of leaves, as it takes a long time until symptoms appear on leaves after the infection on roots. In order to detect root diseases at early stages and limit their further spread, an efficient and non-destructive testing (NDT) method is urgently needed. Hyperspectral remote sensing technology was performed in this study to discern whether ginseng roots were diseased. Hyperspectral reflectance of leaves at 325-1,075 nm were collected from the ginsengs with no symptoms on leaves at visual. These spectra were divided into healthy and diseased groups according to the symptoms on roots after harvest. The hyperspectral data were used to construct machine learning classification models including random forest, extreme random tree (ET), adaptive boosting and gradient boosting decision tree respectively to identify diseased ginsengs, while calculating the vegetation indices and analyzing the region of specific spectral bands. The precision rates of the ET model preprocessed by savitzky golay method for the identification of healthy and diseased ginsengs reached 99% and 98%, respectively. Combined with the preliminary analysis of band importance, vegetation indices and physiological characteristics, 690-726 nm was screened out as a specific band for early detection of ginseng root diseases. Therefore, underground root diseases can be effectively detected at an early stage by leaf hyperspectral reflectance. The NDT method for early detection of ginsengs root diseases is proposed in this study. The method is helpful in the prevention and control of root diseases of ginsengs to prevent the reduction of ginseng yield.
Occurrence of simple sequence repeats in cDNA sequences of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) reveals the importance of SSR-containing genes for cell biology and dynamic response to environmental cues
Authors: Ahmadi Ahmad Jawid , Ahmadikhah Assadollah
Published: November 2022

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) is a diploid crop plant belonging to the family Asteraceae and is well known as one of important oilseed crops due to edible oil containing unsaturated fatty acids. In recent years it is gaining increased attention for food, pharmaceutical and industrial uses, and hence the updating its breeding methods is necessary. Genic simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in addition of being desire molecular markers, are supposed to influence gene function and the respective phenotype. This study aimed to identify SSRs in cDNA sequences and further analysis of the functional features of the SSR-containing genes to elucidate their role in biological and cellular processes. We identified 1,841 SSR regions in 1,667 cDNA sequences. Among all types of repeats, trinucleotide repeats were the most abundant (35.7%), followed by hexanucleotide (29.6%) and dinucleotide repeats (22.0%). Thirty five SSR primer pairs were validated by PCR reaction, detected a high rate of polymorphism (>57%) among safflower accessions, physically mapped on safflower genome and could clearly discriminate the cultivated accessions from wild relatives. The cDNA-derived SSR markers are suitable for evaluation of genetic diversity, linkage and association mapping studies and genome-based breeding programmes. Occurrence of SSR repeats in biologically-important classes of proteins such as kinases, transferases and transcription factors was inferred from functional analyses, which along with variability of their repeat copies, can endow the cell and whole organism the flexibility of facing with continuously changing environment, and indicate a structure-based evolution mechanism of the genome which acts as an up-to-dating tool for the cell and whole origanism, which is realized in GO terms such as involvement of most SSR-containing genes in biological, cellular and metabolic processes, especially in response to stimulus, response to stress, interaction to other organisms and defense responses.
Disadvantages of red: The color congruence effect in comparative price advertising
Authors: Kim Heejin , Jang Jung Min
Published: November 2022

Based on the metaphorical association of color, the color red is often associated with a “hot deal” in a price promotion context, which has led to the popular use of red in promotions in the marketplace. In two studies, this research challenges the lay belief that the color red used in price advertising positively influences consumers’ perceptions of value. The findings from the two studies revealed a contrasting pattern of results depending on the depth of the discount. When the discount depth was high (consistent with consumers’ lay belief), the red color led to more favorable responses to a price promotion than other colors (white or blue in Study 1 and green in Study 2). In contrast, when the discount depth was unambiguously low, consumers who were exposed to a red colored price promotion advertisement reported a perception of a lower value compared to those who saw the same advertisement with other colors We attribute this effect to the degree of “processing fluency” that arises from the congruence between the color and promotion content. Our research adds to the existing psychology literature on color functioning by showing a match between the referential meaning of the color red (i.e., a hot deal) and consumers’ perceptions in marketing communication.
Relation between parent and child or peer alienation and life satisfaction: The mediation roles of mental resilience and self-concept clarity
Authors: Chen Na , Jing Yuanluo , Pang Yazhi
Published: November 2022

The research on life satisfaction originated in the 1960s and has not been completely studied yet. Life satisfaction is an index related to the state and quality of individual life. With the development of society, the relevant variables affecting life satisfaction have also changed with the times. The purpose of this study is to research the relationship between parent and child or peer alienation, mental resilience, self-concept clarity and life satisfaction, finding the mechanism of action among parent-child or peer alienation, mental resilience, self-concept clarity, and life satisfaction. This cross-sectional study recruites randomly 1,347 adolescents from six middle schools in Chongqing, China, participating in a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, the Inventor of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA), the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10), the Self-concept Clarity Scale (SCCS), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). The sample consists of 62.4% female participants (n = 841) and 37.6% male participants (n = 506) aged from 11 to 17 years old (Mean = 14.54, SD = 1.21). We use SPSS 26 to perform the statistical analysis. The study finds that mental resilience—self-concept clarity have mediating effect on the parent or peer alienation to life satisfaction, to the effect that, parent-child or peer alienation explain life satisfaction through the chain mediating effect of mental resilience—self-concept clarity. This study explores the negative multi-use of parent-child or peer alienation on life satisfaction and provides a new perspective for the improvement of life satisfaction of adolescents.
The relation between leadership styles in higher education institutions and academic staff’s job satisfaction: A meta-analysis study
Authors: Kasalak Gamze , Güneri Beysun , Ehtiyar Vesile Ruya , Apaydin Çiğdem , Türker Gulay Özaltın
Published: November 2022

In this study, it is aimed to examine the relationship between leadership in higher education institutions [HEIs] and academic staff’s job satisfaction, which is formed by combining different leadership styles in higher education institutions, using the meta-analysis method based on correlational research. For this purpose, it was investigated whether there was a significant difference between the effect sizes of the studies investigating the relationship between leadership in HEIs and academic staff’s job satisfaction between the years 2010–2022, according to the moderator variables (leadership styles, continent, culture, and Human Development Index [HDI]). A total of 57 research data, including sample size and Pearson correlation coefficient data, were evaluated within the scope of the research. Correlational studies were calculated according to the random effect model in terms of effect direction and overall effect size; The estimated effect size value was found to be 0.374. This value shows that the overall effect size of the relationship between leadership in HEIs and academic staff’s job satisfaction is positive and moderate. However, there is no significant difference between the effect sizes of the research examining the relationship between leadership styles in HEIs and academic staff’s job satisfaction, according to continent, culture and HDI moderator variables.
Regional culture: The role of the invisible hand in shaping local family firms’ top management team
Authors: Yu Xiaodong , Zhang Yuyin , Cheng Xirong , Li Huan , Chen Yujie , Zhou Weizhong
Published: November 2022

Research on family businesses has focused on the differences between family and non-family firms regarding the top management team (TMT), while this study further explores the difference within family firms from different regional culture based on the perspective of socio-emotional wealth (SEW) and evolutionary psychology. Using a sample comprised of all 625 family firms listed on the Small & Medium Enterprise Board and Growth Enterprise Board in Shenzhen Stock Exchange, this study finds that in regions of strong clan culture, family members are more willing to be involved in a family business and accept lower economic rewards. Particularly, when financial risk is high, these relationships mentioned above become more significant. Based on the results, this study proves that regional culture can affect the characteristics of top management teams in family firms, explains the heterogeneity of family firms’ decision-making from a culture-based perspective and extends existing research on family business from the level of “family firm vs. non-family firm” to that of “family firms affected by different regional cultures”.
Happiness connects: The impact of mood on self-other integration
Authors: Zhang Jing , Hommel Bernhard
Published: November 2022

Converging evidence suggests a considerable plasticity of self-representation and self-other boundaries. But what are the factors controlling this plasticity? Here we explored how changes in an individual’s affective state impact his/her self-other representation. Participants watched short videos to elicit happiness or sadness before rating unfamiliar faces with happy or sad expressions. After watching the happy video, participants showed more self-other integration of happy than sad faces, while watching the sad video reduced integration for both happy and sad faces equally. This finding suggests the interaction of two processes: Positive mood biases metacontrol toward flexibility, which fosters the processing of features in which self and other might overlap, and possible overlap increases self-other integration. Negative mood, in turn, biases metacontrol toward persistence, which focuses processing on strictly task-relevant feature dimensions, so that possible overlap is less likely to have an impact.
Compassionate reappraisal and rumination impact forgiveness, emotion, sleep, and prosocial accountability
Authors: Witvliet Charlotte V. O. , Blank Sabrina L. , Gall Andrew J.
Published: November 2022

Sufficient sleep quality and quantity are important for biopsychosocial well-being. Correlational research has linked trait forgiveness to better sleep. Prior experimental evidence also demonstrated contrasting effects of offense rumination versus compassionate reappraisal on forgiveness and psychophysiological responses, suggesting the value of testing effects on sleep. The present study assessed 180 participants (90 M, 90 F). First, we replicated an individual difference model of forgiveness, rumination, depressed and anxious affect, and sleep. Second, we conducted a quasi-experiment inducing offense rumination and compassionate reappraisal on two consecutive nights. Compassionate reappraisal (vs. rumination) replicated past research by prompting more empathic, forgiving, positive, and social responses, with less negative emotion including anger. New findings revealed that compassionate reappraisal (vs. rumination) was also associated with faster sleep onset, fewer sleep disturbances, and fewer sleep impairing offense intrusions. The morning after compassionate reappraisal, participants reported less rumination and intrusive impact of the offense, with more hedonic well-being and accountability to others. Compared to rumination, compassionate reappraisal was associated with more empathy and forgiveness, better sleep, well-being, and prosociality.
Are parents of intellectually gifted child(ren) at higher, lower or equal risk for parental burnout?
Authors: Saliez Zoé , Vandeuren Anthony , Roskam Isabelle , Mikolajczak Moïra
Published: November 2022

Being a parent can lead to exhaustion when risk factors offset protective factors. Recent research enabled the understanding of parental burnout antecedents among parents of typical and atypical children, but we know few about parental burnout (PB) among parents of intellectually gifted (IG) children. At the same time, several qualitative studies report particularities of being a parent of IG child(ren). In this quantitative study, we explore whether the risk of PB is different for parents of IG child(ren) than for the global population. We use two samples of 196 strictly matched parents: the first is composed of parents having at least one IG child, the second is constituted of demographically matched control parents (data collection took place from November 2019 to February 2020). We use Kruskal-Wallis analysis to compare groups. The results suggest that having an IG child does not significantly modify the risk of PB (Mean IG group = 32.45, SD = 28.21; Mean control group = 27.69, SD = 25.58; KW = 3.500, p = 0.06; Cohen's d = 0.18). Implications and future perspectives are discussed, including the relevance of taking into account other special features of the IG child and the intellectual giftedness of the parent in future researches.
A survey of drug liking and cravings in patients using sublingual or intranasal ketamine for treatment resistant depression: A preliminary evaluation of real world addictive potential
Authors: Chubbs Brittany , Wang Jay , Archer Shaina , Chrenek Carson , Khullar Atul , Wolowyk Michael , Swainson Jennifer
Published: November 2022

Ketamine has gained rapid popularity as a treatment option for treatment resistant depression (TRD). Though seen only in limited contexts, ketamine is a potential drug of abuse, addiction and diversion. Clinical ketamine studies to date have not systematically evaluated factors relevant to addiction risk in patients with TRD, but in treating patients with ketamine, risks of potential harms related to addiction must be considered. As clinical access to intravenous ketamine programs is limited in much of Canada, these considerations become even more important for clinicians who elect to offer patients less supervised, non-parenteral forms of ketamine treatment. This study explores factors relevant to addiction risk in a real-world sample of 33 patients with TRD currently or previously treated with sublingual (SL) or intranasal (IN) ketamine in the community. First, patients were surveyed using a Drug Liking and Craving Questionnaire (DLCQ) to assess their level of drug liking and craving for ketamine, and to screen for symptoms of a ketamine use disorder. Second, the pharmacy records of these patients were reviewed for red flags for addiction such as dose escalation or early refills. Third, surveys were administered to the treating psychiatrists of patients who had discontinued ketamine to determine if abuse concerns contributed to reason for discontinuation. Though limited to a small sample, results indicate that ketamine is not a universally liked or craved substance in patients with TRD. Prescribers of non-parenteral ketamine should monitor patients and prescribe cautiously. Factors related to addiction (as in the DLCQ) should be explored for clinicians to consider individual risk/benefit for judicious use of ketamine in patients with TRD.
Cluster analysis for symptomatic management of Neisseria gonorrhoea and Chlamydia trachomatis in sexually transmitted infections related clinics in China
Authors: Ning Ning , Weng Rongxing , Zhang Chunlai , Wen Lizhang , Wang Honglin , Ye Jianbin , Li Jing , Chen Xiangsheng , Cai Yumao
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to perform a cluster analysis of symptoms linked with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and to identify which cluster of symptoms was associated with a higher risk of NG and CT.

Study design

From 15 April to 16 May 2018, a cross-sectional study was conducted, and patients attending sexually transmitted infections (STI) related clinics were recruited from 22 medical institutions in six districts of Shenzhen city.

Methods

A structured questionnaire was used to collect social-demographic information as well as STI symptoms, and urine samples were collected for nucleic acid detection. Cluster analysis and logistic regression were applied.

Results

Among 8,207 participants, the prevalence of CT and NG infection was 9.04% (742/8,207) and 2.36% (194/8,207), respectively. Among male outpatients, four clusters with distinct symptomatic patterns were identified. Unmarried, having casual sexual partners in the past 6 months, cluster 2 (OR = 6.70, 95% CI = 3.36–13.35) and cluster 4 (OR = 24.53, 95% CI = 12.96–46.44) were risk factors associated with NG infection. Unmarried, cluster 2 (OR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.83–3.53) and cluster 4 (OR = 3.31, 95% CI = 2.37–4.61) were risk factors associated with CT infection. Among female outpatients, five clusters with distinct symptomatic patterns were identified. Aged 24 years or below and cluster 3 (OR = 3.68, 95% CI = 1.61–8.39) were risk factors associated with NG infection. Aged 24 years or below, unmarried, having a high school/secondary technical school education, and having junior high school or below education were risk factors associated with CT infection.

Conclusion

The cluster of symptoms integrated into risk assessment for CT and NG infections suggests a new strategy of symptomatic management. Healthcare providers in STI clinics and resource-limited places may use this strategy to identify more potential patients and deliver adequate, acceptable, and equitable STI care for outpatients with a high risk of STI.