bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improves Spatial Working Memory in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Sun Jin-Bo , Cheng Chen , Tian Qian-Qian , Yuan Hang , Yang Xue-Juan , Deng Hui , Guo Xiao-Yu , Cui Ya-Peng , Zhang Meng-Kai , Yin Zi-Xin , Wang Cong , Qin Wei
Published: December 2021

Working memory (WM) is one of the core components of higher cognitive functions. There exists debate regarding the extent to which current techniques can enhance human WM capacity. Here, we examined the WM modulation effects of a previously less studied technique, transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). In experiment 1, a within-subject study, we aimed to investigate whether and which stimulation protocols of taVNS can modulate spatial WM performance in healthy adults. Forty-eight participants performed baseline spatial n-back tasks (1, 3-back) and then received online taVNS, offline taVNS, or sham stimulation before or during (online group) the posttest of spatial n-back tasks in random order. Results showed that offline taVNS could significantly increase hits in spatial 3-back task, whereas no effect was found in online taVNS or sham group. No significant taVNS effects were found on correct rejections or reaction time of accurate trials (aRT) in both online and offline protocols. To replicate the results found in experiment 1 and further investigate the generalization effect of offline taVNS, we carried out experiment 2. Sixty participants were recruited and received offline taVNS or offline earlobe stimulation in random order between baseline and posttests of behavioral tests (spatial/digit 3-back tasks). Results replicated the findings; offline taVNS could improve hits but not correct rejections or aRT in spatial WM performance, which were found in experiment 1. However, there were no significant stimulation effects on digit 3-back task. Overall, the findings suggest that offline taVNS has potential on modulating WM performance.
Chewing and Cognitive Improvement: The Side Matters
Authors: Tramonti Fantozzi Maria Paola , De Cicco Vincenzo , De Cicco Davide , d’Ascanio Paola , Cataldo Enrico , Bruschini Luca , Faraguna Ugo , Manzoni Diego
Published: December 2021

Chewing improves cognitive performance, which is impaired in subjects showing an asymmetry in electromyographic (EMG) masseter activity during clenching. In these subjects, the simultaneous presence of an asymmetry in pupil size (anisocoria) at rest indicates an imbalance in Ascending Reticular Activating System (ARAS) influencing arousal and pupil size. The aim of the present study was to verify whether a trigeminal EMG asymmetry may bias the stimulating effect of chewing on cognition. Cognitive performance and pupil size at rest were recorded before and after 1 min of unilateral chewing in 20 subjects with anisocoria, showing an EMG asymmetry during clenching. Unilateral chewing stimulated performance mainly when it occurred on the side of lower EMG activity (and smaller pupil size). Following chewing on the hypotonic side, changes in cognitive performance were negatively and positively correlated with those in anisocoria and pupil size, respectively. We propose that, following chewing on the hypotonic side, the arousing effects of trigeminal stimulation on performance are enhanced by a rebalancing of ARAS structures. At variance, following chewing on the hypertonic side, the arousing effect of trigeminal stimulation could be partially or completely prevented by the simultaneous increase in ARAS imbalance.
Lysozyme Improves the Inhibitory Effects of Panax notoginseng Saponins on Phenotype Transformation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells by Binding to Ginsenoside Re
Authors: Huang Yun , Cui Lijian , Yang Hongchao , Chen Ning , Guo Huishan , Gan Xiaoruo , Wang Rong , Shi Weiye , Wu Yu , Zhang Yan , Lv Pin
Published: December 2021

Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) have been used to treat cardiovascular diseases for hundreds of years in China. Lysozyme can bind to exogenous compounds and promote their activity. Nevertheless, knowledge of whether there is a synergistic role between lysozyme and PNS is far from sufficient. In this study, we show that the mixture of PNS and lysozyme synergistically inhibited platelet derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB)-induced vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) viability, and in the five main components of PNS, GS-Re, but not GS-Rb1, NG-R1, GS-Rg1, or GS-Rd, reduced VSMC viability by combined application with lysozyme. Next, the supramolecular complexes formed by GS-Re and lysozyme were detected by mass spectrometry, and the binding ability increased with the concentration ratio of GS-Re to lysozyme from 4:1 to 12:1. In the supramolecular complexes, the relative contents of α-helix of lysozyme were increased, which was beneficial for stabilizing the structure of lysozyme. The 12:1 mixture of GS-Re and lysozyme (12.8 μmol/L GS-Re+1.067 μmol/L lysozyme) repressed PDGF-BB-induced VSMC viability, proliferation, and migration, which were associated with the upregulated differentiated markers and downregulated dedifferentiated markers. Finally, in CaCl2-induced rodent abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) models, we found that the 12:1 mixture of GS-Re and lysozyme slowed down AAA progression and reversed phenotype transformation of VSMCs. Thus, Gs-Re combined with a small amount of lysozyme may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for vascular remodeling-associated cardiovascular diseases.
MiR-526b-3p Attenuates Breast Cancer Stem Cell Properties and Chemoresistance by Targeting HIF-2α/Notch Signaling
Authors: Liu Jing-Hua , Li Wen-Ting , Yang Yue , Qi Yan-Bo , Cheng Yu , Wu Jia-Hui
Published: December 2021

Chemoresistance is a severe clinical challenge in breast cancer. Hypoxia and cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to the paclitaxel (PTX) resistance, but the molecular mechanisms are still elusive. MicorRNAs (miRNA) have been considered a promising therapeutic strategy in various cancers. Here, we identified the crucial function of miR-526b-3p in regulating PTX resistance and CSC properties. Our data demonstrated that miR-526b-3p mimic repressed the cell viability of breast cancer cells. The counts of Edu-positive cells were reduced by miR-526b-3p in breast cancer cells. Meanwhile, the apoptosis of breast cancer cells was induced by miR-526b-3p. Tumorigenicity analysis in the nude mice confirmed that miR-526b-3p attenuated the breast cancer cell growth in vivo. Significantly, hypoxia could enhance IC50 value of PTX in breast cancer cells. IC50 value of PTX was induced in breast cancer mammospheres. The hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α) expression was enhanced, but miR-526b-3p expression was repressed under hypoxia in breast cancer cells. Also, breast cancer mammospheres presented high HIF-2α expression and low miR-526b-3p expression. The inhibition of miR-526b-3p enhanced the IC50 value of PTX in breast cancer cells. MiR-526b-3p inhibitor enhanced the colony formation counts of PTX-treated breast cancer cells. The treatment of miR-526b-3p mimic suppressed the sphere formation counts of breast cancer cells and inhibited ALDH1 and Nanog expression. MiR-526b-3p was able to target HIF-2α in the cells. The overexpression enhanced but miR-526b-3p reduced the IC50 value of PTX in breast cancer cells, in which the overexpression of HIF-2α could rescue the miR-526b-3p-inhibited IC50 value of PTX. Overexpression of HIF-2α reversed miR-526b-3p-regulated apoptosis, colony formation ability, and ALDH1 and Nanog expression in the cells. Interestingly, the overexpression of HIF-2α induced but miR-526b-3p repressed the expression of HIF-2α, Hey2, and Notch in PTX-treated breast cancer cells, while HIF-2α could reverse the effect of miR-526b-3p. In conclusion, miR-526b-3p attenuated breast cancer stem cell properties and chemoresistance by targeting HIF-2α/Notch signaling. MiR-526b-3p may be utilized in the relieving chemoresistance in breast cancer.
Ultrasound-Guided Lauromacrogol Injection for the Treatment of Active Bleeding After Renal Biopsy
Authors: Liu Weizong , Jin Chunchun , Lian Qingshu , Xu Lifeng , Lin Zhanye , Lu Jianghao , Gong Xuehao
Published: December 2021

Background: This study aimed to describe the technique and outcomes of hemostasis for ultrasound-guided lauromacrogol injection for active bleeding after renal biopsy.

Methods: Data from patients with active bleeding after renal biopsy between January 2018 and December 2020 were retrospectively collected. Patients who still had active bleeding after 30 min of compression were then injected with lauromacrogol under ultrasound guidance. The patient’s symptoms before and after operation were collected to assess whether they had severe complications. Changes in hemoglobin and serum creatinine values were collected.

Results: Data from a total of 15 patients with active bleeding after renal biopsy were collected, including data of 6 men and 9 women. After the operation, there were 11 cases of mild back pain; 1 case of chills, cold sweats, and back pain; 1 case of cold sweats and blood pressure reduction, and 2 cases with no obvious symptoms. No severe complications occurred in this study, and active bleeding was stopped in all patients. After the operation, compared with before the operation, there was no statistically significant difference in the hemoglobin value and serum creatinine value (p = 0.10 > 0.05, p = 0.78 > 0.05).

Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided lauromacrogol injection is a relatively simple, safe and feasible method, which could be helpful in treating active bleeding in the immediate post-procedure period after renal biopsy.
A Risk-Based Approach for Managing Aquaculture Used Oxytetracycline-Induced TetR in Surface Water Across Taiwan Regions
Authors: Lu Tien-Hsuan , Chen Chi-Yun , Wang Wei-Min , Liao Chung-Min
Published: December 2021

Oxytetracycline (OTC), one of the most important antibiotics in aquaculture industry, has been linked to emergence of antibiotic resistant genes in the aquatic environment. Given rapid growth of the aquaculture industry and unregulated use of antibiotics, it is necessary to implement measures to mitigate the impact of antibiotic resistance risk on environmental and human health. However, there is a lack of quantitative models to properly assess risk of antibiotic resistance associated with environmentally relevant antibiotic residues. To address this issue, here we developed a computational framework to assess antibiotic resistance risk posed by low-concentration OTC in aquaculture ponds and rivers across Taiwan regions. To this end, estimated amount of aquaculture used OTC as a crucial input parameter was incorporated into a multimedia fugacity model to predict environmental concentrations of OTC in surface water/sediment. A pharmacodynamic-based dose–response model was used to characterize the OTC concentration–antibiotic resistance relationships. The risk of antibiotic resistance selection in an aquatic environment could be assessed based on a probabilistic risk model. We also established a control measure model to manage the risks of substantial OTC-induced antibiotic resistance impacts. We found that OTC residues were likely to pose a high risk of tetracycline resistance (tetR) genes selection in aquaculture ponds among all the study basins, whereas risk of tetR genes selection in rivers experienced a variably changing fashion. We also showed that it was extremely difficult to moderate the tetR genes selection rates to less than 10% increase in aquaculture ponds situated at northeastern river basins in that the minimum reductions on OTC emission rates during spring, summer, and autumn were greater than 90%. On the other hand, water concentrations of OTC during spring and summer in southwestern rivers should be prioritized to be severely limited by reducing 67 and 25% of OTC emission rate, respectively. Overall, incorporating a computational fugacity model into a risk assessment framework can identify relative higher risk regions to provide the risk-based control strategies for public health decision-making and development of robust quantitative methods to zero-in on environment with high risk of tetR genes selection in relation to aquaculture-used pharmaceutical residues.
Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate Binding to Amphiphysin-II Modulates T-Tubule Remodeling: Implications for Heart Failure
Authors: Zhou Junlan , Singh Neha , Monnier Chloe , Marszalec William , Gao Li , Jin Jing , Frisk Michael , Louch William E. , Verma Suresh , Krishnamurthy Prasanna , Nico Elsa , Mulla Maaz , Aistrup Gary L. , Kishore Raj , Wasserstrom J. Andrew
Published: December 2021

BIN1 (amphyphysin-II) is a structural protein involved in T-tubule (TT) formation and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) is responsible for localization of BIN1 to sarcolemma. The goal of this study was to determine if PIP2-mediated targeting of BIN1 to sarcolemma is compromised during the development of heart failure (HF) and is responsible for TT remodeling. Immunohistochemistry showed co-localization of BIN1, Cav1.2, PIP2, and phospholipase-Cβ1 (PLCβ1) in TTs in normal rat and human ventricular myocytes. PIP2 levels were reduced in spontaneously hypertensive rats during HF progression compared to age-matched controls. A PIP Strip assay of two native mouse cardiac-specific isoforms of BIN1 including the longest (cardiac BIN1 #4) and shortest (cardiac BIN1 #1) isoforms as well human skeletal BIN1 showed that all bound PIP2. In addition, overexpression of all three BIN1 isoforms caused tubule formation in HL-1 cells. A triple-lysine motif in a short loop segment between two helices was mutated and replaced by negative charges which abolished tubule formation, suggesting a possible location for PIP2 interaction aside from known consensus binding sites. Pharmacological PIP2 depletion in rat ventricular myocytes caused TT loss and was associated with changes in Ca2+ release typically found in myocytes during HF, including a higher variability in release along the cell length and a slowing in rise time, time to peak, and decay time in treated myocytes. These results demonstrate that depletion of PIP2 can lead to TT disruption and suggest that PIP2 interaction with cardiac BIN1 is required for TT maintenance and function.
Physiological Mechanisms Regulating Lens Transport
Authors: Giannone Adrienne A. , Li Leping , Sellitto Caterina , White Thomas W.
Published: December 2021

The transparency and refractive properties of the lens are maintained by the cellular physiology provided by an internal microcirculation system that utilizes spatial differences in ion channels, transporters and gap junctions to establish standing electrochemical and hydrostatic pressure gradients that drive the transport of ions, water and nutrients through this avascular tissue. Aging has negative effects on lens transport, degrading ion and water homeostasis, and producing changes in lens water content. This alters the properties of the lens, causing changes in optical quality and accommodative amplitude that initially result in presbyopia in middle age and ultimately manifest as cataract in the elderly. Recent advances have highlighted that the lens hydrostatic pressure gradient responds to tension transmitted to the lens through the Zonules of Zinn through a mechanism utilizing mechanosensitive channels, multiple sodium transporters respond to changes in hydrostatic pressure to restore equilibrium, and that connexin hemichannels and diverse intracellular signaling cascades play a critical role in these responses. The mechanistic insight gained from these studies has advanced our understanding of lens transport and how it responds and adapts to different inputs both from within the lens, and from surrounding ocular structures.
Transient Nutrient Deficiencies in Pea: Consequences on Nutrient Uptake, Remobilization, and Seed Quality
Authors: Jacques Cécile , Forest Marion , Durey Vincent , Salon Christophe , Ourry Alain , Prudent Marion
Published: December 2021

Legume plants, such as peas, are of significant nutritional interest for both humans and animals. However, plant nutrition and thus, seed composition, depends on soil mineral nutrient availability. Understanding the impact of their deprivation on the plant mineral nutrient content, net uptake, and remobilization is of key importance but remains complex as the elements of the plant ionome are linked in intricate networks, one element deprivation impacting uptake and remobilization of other nutrients. To get a better insight into pea mineral nutrition, the transitory deprivations of 13 mineral nutrients were imposed during the vegetative growth phase. Thereafter, plants were grown under optimal mineral conditions until physiological maturity. Plant nutritional status and seed quality impacts caused by the deprivations were characterized using measurement of mineral nutrient concentration and plant biomass allocation. Our results highlight: (i) the preferential allocation of dry weight and elements to shoots at the expense of the roots under non-limiting conditions, and more particularly to the tendrils in comparison to the other shoot organs, (ii) the positive and/or negative impact of one mineral nutrient deprivation on other elements of the ionome, (iii) four different remobilization strategies for eight mineral nutrients, and (iv) possible strategies to improve seed quality via fine control of fertilization during a period of mineral nutrient deficiency.
Functional Characterization of the Pheophytinase Gene, ZjPPH, From Zoysia japonica in Regulating Chlorophyll Degradation and Photosynthesis
Authors: Teng Ke , Yue Yuesen , Zhang Hui , Li Hui , Xu Lixin , Han Chao , Fan Xifeng , Wu Juying
Published: December 2021

Pheophytinase (PPH), the phytol hydrolase, plays important roles in chlorophyll degradation. Nevertheless, little attention has been paid to the PPHs in warm-season grass species; neither its detailed function in photosynthesis has been systematically explored to date. In this study, we isolated ZjPPH from Zoysia japonica, an excellent warm-season turfgrass species. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis and promoter activity characterization revealed that the expression of ZjPPH could be induced by senescence, ABA, and dark induction. Subcellular localization observation proved that ZjPPH was localized in the chloroplasts. Overexpression of ZjPPH accelerated the chlorophyll degradation and rescued the stay-green phenotype of the Arabidopsis pph mutant. Moreover, ZjPPH promoted senescence with the accumulation of ABA and soluble sugar contents, as well as the increased transcriptional level of SAG12 and SAG14. Transmission electron microscopy investigation revealed that ZjPPH caused the decomposition of chloroplasts ultrastructure in stable transformed Arabidopsis. Furthermore, chlorophyll a fluorescence transient measurement analysis suggested that ZjPPH suppressed photosynthesis efficiency by mainly suppressing both photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem I (PSI). In conclusion, ZjPPH plays an important role in chlorophyll degradation and senescence. It could be a valuable target for genetic editing to cultivate new germplasms with stay-green performance and improved photosynthetic efficiency.
Rice Glycosyltransferase Gene UGT85E1 Is Involved in Drought Stress Tolerance Through Enhancing Abscisic Acid Response
Authors: Liu Qian , Dong Guang-rui , Ma Yu-qing , Zhao Shu-man , Liu Xi , Li Xing-kun , Li Yan-jie , Hou Bing-kai
Published: December 2021

Drought is one of the most important environmental constraints affecting plant growth and development and ultimately leads to yield loss. Uridine diphosphate (UDP)-dependent glycosyltransferases (UGTs) are believed to play key roles in coping with environmental stresses. In rice, it is estimated that there are more than 200 UGT genes. However, most of them have not been identified as their physiological significance. In this study, we reported the characterization of a putative glycosyltransferase gene UGT85E1 in rice. UGT85E1 gene is significantly upregulated by drought stress and abscisic acid (ABA) treatment. The overexpression of UGT85E1 led to an enhanced tolerance in transgenic rice plants to drought stress, while the ugt85e1 mutants of rice showed a more sensitive phenotype to drought stress. Further studies indicated that UGT85E1 overexpression induced ABA accumulation, stomatal closure, enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capacity, increased proline and sugar contents, and upregulated expression of stress-related genes under drought stress conditions. Moreover, when UGT85E1 was ectopically overexpressed in Arabidopsis, the transgenic plants showed increased tolerance to drought as well as in rice. Our findings suggest that UGT85E1 plays an important role in mediating plant response to drought and oxidative stresses. This work may provide a promising candidate gene for cultivating drought-tolerant crops both in dicots and monocots.
Silencing of a Wheat Ortholog of Glucan Synthase-Like Gene Reduced Resistance to Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici
Authors: Cheng Peng , Wang Zihao , Ren Yanyan , Jin Pengfei , Ma Kangjie , Li Qiang , Wang Baotong
Published: December 2021

Wheat powdery mildew, caused by the obligate biotrophic ascomycete fungal pathogen Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt), is a major threat to wheat production worldwide. It is known that Arabidopsis thaliana glucan synthase-like 5 (AtGSL5) improves the resistance of wheat to powdery mildew by increasing its anti-penetration abilities. However, the function of glucan synthase-like (GSL) orthologs in crop species remains largely unknown. In this study, TaGSL22, a novel functional ortholog of AtGSL5, was isolated as the only Bgt-induced GSL gene in wheat. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that TaGSL22 was conserved within the group of Gramineae and showed a closer relationship to GSL orthologs from monocots than to those from dicots. The TaGSL22 transcript was highest in the wheat leaves, followed by stems then roots. TaGSL22 was localized in the cell membrane and cytoplasm of wheat protoplasts, as predicted by transmembrane structure analysis. In addition, expression of TaGSL22 was induced by the plant hormones ethylene (ETH) and salicylic acid (SA), but down-regulated by jasmonate (JA) and abscisic acid (ABA). The transcript level of TaGSL22 was up-regulated in the incompatible interaction between Bgt and wheat, whereas it remained relatively unchanged in the compatible interaction. Knocking down of TaGSL22 by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) induced a higher infection type in the wheat–Bgt interaction. The TaGSL22-silenced plants exhibited reduced resistance to Bgt, accompanied by decreased callose accumulation. Our study shows a conserved function of GSL genes in plant immunity associated with penetration resistance, and it indicates that TaGSL22 can be used to improve papilla composition and enhance resistance to wheat powdery mildew.
Magnesium Limitation Leads to Transcriptional Down-Tuning of Auxin Synthesis, Transport, and Signaling in the Tomato Root
Authors: Ishfaq Muhammad , Zhong Yanting , Wang Yongqi , Li Xuexian
Published: December 2021

Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is becoming a widespread limiting factor for crop production. How crops adapt to Mg limitation remains largely unclear at the molecular level. Using hydroponic-cultured tomato seedlings, we found that total Mg2+ content significantly decreased by ∼80% under Mg limitation while K+ and Ca2+ concentrations increased. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that Mg transporters (MRS2/MGTs) constitute a previously uncharacterized 3-clade tree in planta with two rounds of asymmetric duplications, providing evolutionary evidence for further molecular investigation. In adaptation to internal Mg deficiency, the expression of six representative MGTs (two in the shoot and four in the root) was up-regulated in Mg-deficient plants. Contradictory to the transcriptional elevation of most of MGTs, Mg limitation resulted in the ∼50% smaller root system. Auxin concentrations particularly decreased by ∼23% in the Mg-deficient root, despite the enhanced accumulation of gibberellin, cytokinin, and ABA. In accordance with such auxin reduction was overall transcriptional down-regulation of thirteen genes controlling auxin biosynthesis (TAR/YUCs), transport (LAXs, PINs), and signaling (IAAs, ARFs). Together, systemic down-tuning of gene expression in the auxin signaling pathway under Mg limitation preconditions a smaller tomato root system, expectedly stimulating MGT transcription for Mg uptake or translocation.
AaCycTL Regulates Cuticle and Trichome Development in Arabidopsis and Artemisia annua L.
Authors: Dong Boran , Wang Xingxing , Jiang Rui , Fang Shiyuan , Li Jinxing , Li Qing , Lv Zong you , Chen Wan sheng
Published: December 2021

Artemisinin is an important drug for resistance against malaria. Artemisinin is derived from the glandular trichome of leaves, stems, or buds of the Chinese traditional herb Artemisia annua. Increasing the trichome density may enhance the artemisinin content of A. annua. It has been proven that cyclins are involved in the development of trichomes in tomato, Arabidopsis, and tobacco, but it is unclear whether the cyclins in A. annua influence trichome development. In this study, we showed that AaCycTL may regulate trichome development and affect the content of artemisinin. We cloned AaCycTL and found that it has the same expression files as the artemisinin biosynthesis pathway gene. We overexpressed AaCycTL in Arabidopsis, and the results indicated that AaCycTL changed the wax coverage on the surface of Arabidopsis leaves. The trichome density decreased as well. Using yeast two-hybrid and BiFC assays, we show that AaCycTL can interact with AaTAR1. Moreover, we overexpressed AaCycTL in A. annua and found that the expression of AaCycTL was increased to 82–195%. Changes in wax coverage on the surface of transgenic A. annua leaves or stems were found as well. We identified the expression of the artemisinin biosynthesis pathway genes ADS, CYP71AV1, and ALDH1 has decreased to 88–98%, 76–97%, and 82–97% in the AaCycTL-overexpressing A. annua lines, respectively. Furthermore, we found reduced the content of artemisinin. In agreement, overexpression of AaCycTL in A. annua or Arabidopsis may alter waxy loading, change the initiation of trichomes and downregulate trichome density. Altogether, AaCycTL mediates trichome development in A. annua and thus may serve to regulate trichome density and be used for artemisinin biosynthesis.
The Effects of the Flash Technique Compared to Those of an Abbreviated Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy Protocol on the Emotionality and Vividness of Aversive Memories
Authors: Brouwers Thomas C. , de Jongh Ad , Matthijssen Suzy J. M. A.
Published: December 2021

Introduction: The Flash technique is a novel intervention aimed at rapidly decreasing the subjective disturbance of an aversive memory, thereby serving as a potential way of treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The protocol is used to stimulate clients to engage in positive imagery while being discouraged to actively recollect the targeted disturbing memory. Previous research into the Flash technique’s efficacy shows promising results, yet controlled studies are lacking.

Objectives: To test the efficacy of the Flash technique, it was compared to an abbreviated eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy protocol in a controlled experimental setting. We hypothesized that the Flash technique would lead to a larger decrease in the emotionality and vividness of an aversive autobiographical memory when compared to EMDR therapy. Our second hypothesis was that the procedure of the Flash technique would be evaluated more pleasant by its receiver.

Method: The sample consisted of 60 non-clinical participants (mean age = 25.28 years; 73.33% female) who were able to recall an aversive autobiographical memory. They were randomized to either the Flash technique or the EMDR therapy condition. Measurements consisted of emotionality and vividness-ratings pre and post intervention, and at 1-week follow-up.

Results: Bayesian analyses showed no differences between Flash and EMDR to the extent to which the emotionality and vividness of their memory was reduced. Afterward, the Flash technique was rated more pleasant than EMDR.

Conclusion: The results support the claim that the Flash technique might be used as a brief and efficacious intervention for individuals suffering from disturbing memories. Although the results suggest that its efficacy does not differ from EMDR, the Flash technique seems to yield similar outcomes in a more pleasant way. Further research into its working mechanisms and in a clinical sample is required.
The Effect of English as a Foreign Language Teachers’ Optimism and Affectivity on Their Psychological Well-Being
Authors: Zhang Xuena
Published: December 2021

Psychological well-being is considered a key component for the mental and physical health of individuals that is influenced by various attributive factors. Some of the important attributes that have a constructive and encouraging effect on the improvement and progress of good habits, positive thinking, behavior, and well-being of individuals like teachers are emotions. Educators’ emotions and emotive features have essential roles in educational circumstances as they affect nearly all facets of their occupation. Moreover, optimism as a new concept is changing from the inspection on positive psychology, social principle, and communal school possessions in education. The present review surveyed the role that affectivity and optimism have regarding the psychological well-being of EFL teachers. In brief, the implications for educators, school managers, teacher-trainers, and forthcoming researchers are provided.
Development of a Screening Tool for Common Mental Disorders Among General Hospital Inpatients in China
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Shen Yizhong , Liu Jingwen , Chen Zilin , Zheng Lijiao , Chen Lihao , Chen Hanwei , Feng Huiqiang , He Hongbo
Published: December 2021

Background: Depression and anxiety disorders are common conditions among general hospital inpatients, but are believed to be under-recognized in China.

Methods: A short, practical questionnaire termed the happiness index scale (HIS) was developed for screening co-morbid mental disorders in non-psychiatric clinical settings. The HIS was completed by 1,005 non-psychiatric inpatients in a general hospital in China. The reliability and validity of the HIS were then assessed.

Results: The HIS comprised eight items which loaded onto four dimensions: (a) sleep quality; (b) suicidal tendency; (c) depression; and (d) anxiety. These dimensions explained 84.2% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis showed reasonably good fit of the four-factor model (χ2/df = 1.27, p < 0.001, goodness-of-fit index = 0.95, comparative fit index = 0.99, root-mean-square error of approximation = 0.008). The correlation coefficients between each item and the corresponding factor were all > 0.5. Cronbach's α of the entire scale was 0.83, indicating good internal consistency. The area under the ROC curve was 0.95 compared with the original 31-item scale. Using the optimal cut-off score of HIS (mild happiness), the sensitivity and specificity were 0.933 and 0.882, respectively.

Conclusions: The new HIS scale is a practical screening tool composed of eight items covering the four most common and important dimensions of mental disorder. The HIS exhibited good reliability and specificity. The HIS is potentially suitable for large-scale screening in busy non-psychiatric clinical settings in China. Further verification using larger samples is warranted.
A Fresh Evidence of Income Inequality and Health Outcomes Asymmetric Linkages in Emerging Asian Economies
Authors: Chang Shuangshuang , Gao Bin
Published: December 2021

During the last few decades, income inequality in emerging Asian economies has been increased dramatically. It is widely recognized that income inequality has severely impacted population health. This study attempts to estimate the impact of income inequality on health outcomes in emerging Asian economies for a time horizon ranging from 1991 to 2019. Our empirical analysis shows that income inequality has a negative effect on life expectancy in the long run. We also find that positive changes in income inequality decrease life expectancy, but a negative change in income inequality increases life expectancy in the long run in emerging Asian economies. The symmetric and asymmetric results are robust to different measures of econometric methods. Thus, governments should pay more attention to the consequences of their economic policies on income inequality to improve health outcomes.
INDY—From Flies to Worms, Mice, Rats, Non-Human Primates, and Humans
Authors: Mishra Dushyant , Kannan Kavitha , Meadows Kali , Macro Jacob , Li Michael , Frankel Stewart , Rogina Blanka
Published: December 2021

I’m Not Dead Yet (Indy) is a fly homologue of the mammalian SLC13A5 (mSLC13A5) plasma membrane citrate transporter, a key metabolic regulator and energy sensor involved in health, longevity, and disease. Reduction of Indy gene activity in flies, and its homologs in worms, modulates metabolism and extends longevity. The metabolic changes are similar to what is obtained with caloric restriction (dietary restriction). Similar effects on metabolism have been observed in mice and rats. As a citrate transporter, INDY regulates cytoplasmic citrate levels. Indy flies heterozygous for a P-element insertion have increased spontaneous physical activity, increased fecundity, reduced insulin signaling, increased mitochondrial biogenesis, preserved intestinal stem cell homeostasis, lower lipid levels, and increased stress resistance. Mammalian Indy knockout (mIndy-KO) mice have higher sensitivity to insulin signaling, lower blood pressure and heart rate, preserved memory and are protected from the negative effects of a high-fat diet and some of the negative effects of aging. Reducing mIndy expression in human hepatocarcinoma cells has recently been shown to inhibit cell proliferation. Reduced Indy expression in the fly intestine affects intestinal stem cell proliferation, and has recently been shown to also inhibit germ cell proliferation in males with delayed sperm maturation and decreased spermatocyte numbers. These results highlight a new connection between energy metabolism and cell proliferation. The overrall picture in a variety of species points to a conserved role of INDY for metabolism and health. This is illustrated by an association of high mIndy gene expression with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in obese humans. mIndy (mSLC13A5) coding region mutations (e.g., loss-of-function) are also associated with adverse effects in humans, such as autosomal recessive early infantile epileptic encephalopathy and Kohlschütter−Tönz syndrome. The recent findings illustrate the importance of mIndy gene for human health and disease. Furthermore, recent work on small-molecule regulators of INDY highlights the promise of INDY-based treatments for ameliorating disease and promoting healthy aging.
Are They Ready? Trials, Tribulations, and Professional Skills Vital for New Veterinary Graduate Success
Authors: Reinhard Addie R. , Hains Kristina D. , Hains Bryan J. , Strand Elizabeth B.
Published: December 2021

Stress and burnout levels are high among young veterinarians with the transition to practice being particularly challenging. This qualitative study aimed to capture and document the new graduate veterinary experience within the United States and which professional skills are most important for success during the transition to practice. The researchers sought to better understand this challenging transition period and provide insight for veterinary educators who are tasked with preparing new veterinary graduates for day 1 practice readiness. To gain a deeper understanding of the new graduate experience, a focus group was conducted with six veterinarians who recently graduated from four different U.S. veterinary colleges. Several themes arose regarding their experiences in the transition to practice including setbacks and adaptations, self-sufficiency and self-doubt, changing clientele and ethical dilemmas, leadership and conflict, and good vs. bad mentorship. Self-care, conflict management, and client communication were perceived as the most important professional skills for success in the transition to practice. New graduate veterinarians reported that they were least prepared for working with clients with financial constraints and managing conflict. Drawing from this qualitative data, the researchers propose several topics that could be incorporated into professional skills curriculum to further enhance day 1 preparedness of new veterinary graduates to promote well-being in the transition to practice.
Structural Batteries for Aeronautic Applications—State of the Art, Research Gaps and Technology Development Needs
Authors: Kühnelt Helmut , Beutl Alexander , Mastropierro Francesco , Laurin Frederic , Willrodt Sebastian , Bismarck Alexander , Guida Michele , Romano Fulvio
Published: December 2021

Radical innovations for all aircraft systems and subsystems are needed for realizing future carbon-neutral aircraft, with hybrid-electric aircraft due to be delivered after 2035, initially in the regional aircraft segment of the industry. Electrical energy storage is one key element here, demanding safe, energy-dense, lightweight technologies. Combining load-bearing with energy storage capabilities to create multifunctional structural batteries is a promising way to minimize the detrimental impact of battery weight on the aircraft. However, despite the various concepts developed in recent years, their viability has been demonstrated mostly at the material or coupon level, leaving many open questions concerning their applicability to structural elements of a relevant size for implementation into the airframe. This review aims at providing an overview of recent approaches for structural batteries, assessing their multifunctional performance, and identifying gaps in technology development toward their introduction for commercial aeronautic applications. The main areas where substantial progress needs to be achieved are materials, for better energy storage capabilities; structural integration and aircraft design, for optimizing the mechanical-electrical performance and lifetime; aeronautically compatible manufacturing techniques; and the testing and monitoring of multifunctional structures. Finally, structural batteries will introduce novel aspects to the certification framework.
Transcriptome Integrated with Metabolome Reveals the Molecular Mechanism of Phytoplasma Cherry Phyllody Disease on Stiff Fruit in Chinese Cherry (Cerasus pseudocerasus L.)
Authors: Li Jihan , Chen Silei , Wang Weixing , Li Chunyan
Published: December 2021

Phytoplasma-infected Chinese cherry (Cerasus pseudocerasus L.) exhibits symptoms of phyllody and stiff fruit. To reveal the molecular mechanism of stiff fruit, the current study integrated transcriptome with metabolome. Results showed that the differentially expressed genes and the differentially accumulated metabolites were related to a high proportion of two aspects: pathogen resistance and signaling or regulatory functions, and the molecular mechanism of stiff fruit that were majorly induced by plant biotic stress response via phytohormones signal transduction, especially signal pathways of salicylic acid, auxin, and abscisic acid. Notably, there was a large overlap between phytoplasma stress response and drought stress response genes. Phytohormone content displayed significant difference that abscisic acid and salicylic acid content of phytoplasma-infected fruit were higher than that of healthy fruit, whereas zeatin, jasmonic acid, and IAA showed the opposite results. In addition, the expression of key candidate genes, including IAA4, IAA9, IAA14, IAA31, ARF5, ARF9, GH3.1, GH3.17, SAUR20, SAUR32, SAUR40, PR1a, PRB1, TGA10, SnRK2.3, and AHK2, was responsible for cherry stiff fruit. In conclusion, the current study contributed a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanism of cherry phyllody disease on stiff fruit, a better understanding of fruit development, and found the potential candidate genes involved in cherry stiff fruit, which could be used for further research in associated fields.
Compost Based on Pulp and Paper Mill Sludge, Fruit-Vegetable Waste, Mushroom Spent Substrate and Rye Straw Improves Yield and Nutritional Value of Tomato
Authors: Zawadzińska Agnieszka , Salachna Piotr , Nowak Jacek S. , Kowalczyk Waldemar , Piechocki Rafał , Łopusiewicz Łukasz , Pietrak Anna
Published: December 2021

Plant biomass in the form of waste materials and by-products from various industries can be a valuable material for the production of composts and growing media for urban gardening. In this study, pulp and paper mill sludge, fruit-vegetable waste, mushroom spent substrate and rye straw were used to produce compost that was further used as a medium component in container cultivation of tomato. The plants were grown in containers with a capacity of 3 dm3 filled with three types of compost-based growing media supplemented with high peat, fen peat, pine bark and wood fiber. The tomato plants grown in 100% peat substrate served as controls. The plants grown in the compost-enriched media had a higher leaf greening index and percentage of ripe fruit, and exhibited an increased content of total polyphenols and flavonoids, potassium, calcium, magnesium and copper in fruit as compared with the control. The tomatoes grown in a medium consisting of 25% compost, 30% high peat, 15% low peat, 20% pine bark and 10% wood fiber reached the highest fresh fruit weight, total polyphenol content and L-ascorbic acid levels. This study demonstrated that the compost produced from natural materials from various sources was a valuable potting medium supplement with positive effects on tomato yield and nutritional value.
Climate-Based Modeling and Prediction of Rice Gall Midge Populations Using Count Time Series and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Rathod Santosha , Yerram Sridhar , Arya Prawin , Katti Gururaj , Rani Jhansi , Padmakumari Ayyagari Phani , Somasekhar Nethi , Padmavathi Chintalapati , Ondrasek Gabrijel , Amudan Srinivasan , Malathi Seetalam , Rao Nalla Mallikarjuna , Karthikeyan Kolandhaivelu , Mandawi Nemichand , Muthuraman Pitchiahpillai , Sundaram Raman Meenakshi
Published: December 2021

The Asian rice gall midge (Orseolia oryzae (Wood-Mason)) is a major insect pest in rice cultivation. Therefore, development of a reliable system for the timely prediction of this insect would be a valuable tool in pest management. In this study, occurring between the period from 2013–2018: (i) gall midge populations were recorded using a light trap with an incandescent bulb, and (ii) climatological parameters (air temperature, air relative humidity, rainfall and insulations) were measured at four intensive rice cropping agroecosystems that are endemic for gall midge incidence in India. In addition, weekly cumulative trapped gall midge populations and weekly averages of climatological data were subjected to count time series (Integer-valued Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic—INGARCH) and machine learning (Artificial Neural Network—ANN, and Support Vector Regression—SVR) models. The empirical results revealed that the ANN with exogenous variable (ANNX) model outperformed INGRACH with exogenous variable (INGRCHX) and SVR with exogenous variable (SVRX) models in the prediction of gall midge populations in both training and testing data sets. Moreover, the Diebold–Mariano (DM) test confirmed the significant superiority of the ANNX model over INGARCHX and SVRX models in modeling and predicting rice gall midge populations. Utilizing the presented efficient early warning system based on a robust statistical model to predict the build-up of gall midge population could greatly contribute to the design and implementation of both proactive and more sustainable site-specific pest management strategies to avoid significant rice yield losses.
Saliva and Blood Cortisol Measurement in Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus): Methodology, Application, and Limitations
Authors: Rickert Daniela , Simon Ralph , von Fersen Lorenzo , Baumgartner Katrin , Bertsch Thomas , Kirschbaum Clemens , Erhard Michael
Published: December 2021

A central task of zoos and aquaria is the frequent and accurate assessment of their animals’ welfare. Recently, important steps have been made, such as the introduction of animal welfare evaluation tools and welfare decision trees. To determine animal welfare, it is not only important to collect life history data, such as longevity and reproductive success, but also for experienced observers or caretakers to conduct behavioral observations on a regular basis to assess animals’ emotional state. To physiologically validate welfare observations, glucocorticoid levels are usually assessed, as they are a common indicator of stress. While, for many animals, these levels can be easily determined via fecal or hair samples, for cetaceans, the levels are usually determined via blood samples. As blood samples cannot be taken very frequently and the process may cause stress to the animals (if the samples are not taken following medical training), other techniques, such as the measurement of health biomarkers (especially cortisol, which can be measured in saliva), have become the focus of cetacean stress research. However, there are two problems associated with saliva measurements in cetaceans: saliva might either be diluted with pool water or be contaminated by fodder fish, as frozen fish usually contains high levels of cortisol. In our study, we investigated how saliva cortisol levels are connected to blood cortisol levels and how saliva cortisol can be influenced by fodder fish. We examined saliva and blood samples in eleven bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) kept in an outdoor and indoor facility in Germany. Furthermore, we assessed the cortisol levels of different kinds of fodder fish. Our data show that, although saliva cortisol values are elevated under stress and arousal, they seem not to be correlated with blood cortisol values. We also show that, after feeding, saliva cortisol values are increased up to 100-fold. Our results suggest that saliva cortisol measurements in dolphins have to be conducted and considered with care, as they can easily be contaminated. Moreover, it is important to use the right laboratory method in order to specifically detect cortisol; in our study, we conducted reliable tests, using LC-MS/MS.
miR-27a Regulates Sheep Adipocyte Differentiation by Targeting CPT1B Gene
Authors: Li Bo , Huang Xiaoyu , Yang Chen , Ge Ting , Zhao Leiyun , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Tian Lintao , Zhang Enping
Published: December 2021

MiRNAs are vital regulators and play a major role in cell differentiation, biological development, and disease occurrence. In recent years, many studies have found that miRNAs are involved in the proliferation and differentiation of adipocytes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of miR-27a and its target gene CPT1B on ovine preadipocytes differentiation in Small-tailed Han sheep (Ovis aries). Down-regulation of miR-27a significantly promoted the production of lipid droplets, while overexpression of miR-27a led to a reduction in lipid droplet production. In addition, inhibition of miR-27a led to a significant increase in the expression of genes involved in lipid synthesis, including PPAR γ, SCD, LPL, and FABP4. Target Scan software predicted that CPT1B is a new potential target gene of miR-27a. Further experiments revealed that CPT1B gene expression and protein levels were negatively correlated with miR-27a expression. Overexpression of miR-27a led to a significant decrease in CPT1B mRNA levels and inhibited the accumulation of lipid droplets and vice versa. Moreover, overexpression of CPT1B promoted the synthesis of lipid droplets in ovine preadipocytes. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assays confirmed CPT1B to be a miR-27a direct target gene. This study confirmed that miR-27a increases the expression of genes related to lipid synthesis in ovine preadipocytes by targeting CPT1B, thereby promoting the synthesis of lipid droplets. The results of this study can be used to be exploited in devising novel approaches for improving the IMF content of sheep.