bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Temporal Dynamics of EEG Microstate Reveals the Neuromodulation Effect of Acupuncture With Deqi
Authors: Si Xiaopeng , Han Shunli , Zhang Kuo , Zhang Ludan , Sun Yulin , Yu Jiayue , Ming Dong
Published: October 2021

The electroencephalography (EEG) microstate has recently emerged as a new whole-brain mapping tool for studying the temporal dynamics of the human brain. Meanwhile, the neuromodulation effect of external stimulation on the human brain is of increasing interest to neuroscientists. Acupuncture, which originated in ancient China, is recognized as an external neuromodulation method with therapeutic effects. Effective acupuncture could elicit the deqi effect, which is a combination of multiple sensations. However, whether the EEG microstate could be used to reveal the neuromodulation effect of acupuncture with deqi remains largely unclear. In this study, multichannel EEG data were recorded from 16 healthy subjects during acupuncture manipulation, as well as during pre- and post-manipulation tactile controls and pre- and post-acupuncture rest controls. As the basic acupuncture unit for regulating the central nervous system, the Hegu acupoint was used in this study, and each subject’s acupuncture deqi behavior scores were collected. To reveal the neuroimaging evidence of acupuncture with deqi, EEG microstate analysis was conducted to obtain the microstate maps and microstate parameters for different conditions. Furthermore, Pearson’s correlation was analyzed to investigate the correlation relationship between microstate parameters and deqi behavioral scores. Results showed that: (1) compared with tactile controls, acupuncture manipulation caused significantly increased deqi behavioral scores. (2) Acupuncture manipulation significantly increased the duration, occurrence, and contribution parameters of microstate C, whereas it decreased those parameters of microstate D. (3) Microstate C’s duration parameter showed a significantly positive correlation with acupuncture deqi behavior scores. (4) Acupuncture manipulation significantly increased the transition probabilities with microstate C as node, whereas it reduced the transition probabilities with microstate D as node. (5) Microstate B→C’s transition probability also showed a significantly positive correlation with acupuncture deqi behavior scores. Taken together, the temporal dynamic feature of EEG microstate could be used as objective neuroimaging evidence to reveal the neuromodulation effect of acupuncture with deqi.
A Novel ZNF304/miR-183-5p/FOXO4 Pathway Regulates Cell Proliferation in Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma
Authors: Ren Li-Xin , Zeng Bo-Wen , Zhu Meng , Zhao An-Ning , Shi Bei , Zhang Hong , Wang Dan-Dan , Gu Jun-Fei , Yang Zhan
Published: October 2021

Zinc-finger protein 304 (ZNF304) plays a critical role in silencing genes through transcription, regulating cell survival, proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation during development. However, the roles of transcription factor ZNF304 and its clinical significance in clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC) remain unclear. In this study, we found that the expression of ZNF304 was downregulated in ccRCC tissues. Lower levels of ZNF304 were correlated with poor survival. Downregulation of ZNF304 promoted ccRCC cell growth in vitro, whereas overexpression of ZNF304 inhibited growth. Our results indicated that miR-183-5p/FOXO4 mediated ZNF304 regulation of cell growth. Interestingly, we revealed that ZNF304 promoted FOXO4 expression in ccRCC cells. Mechanistically, ZNF304 binds to miR-183 promoter and inhibits miR-183-5p transcription. Furthermore, the expression of miR-183-5p wes increased in ccRCC tissues, and the upregulation of miR-183-5p was related to the poor prognosis of ccRCC patients. miR-183-5p upregulation repressed the expression of FOXO4 and promoted ccRCC progression. These results demonstrated that ZNF304/miR-183-5p/FOXO4 axis played essential role in promoting ccRCC progression, which suggests that disruption of this axis may be a potential therapeutic target in ccRCC.
CT Radiomics Model for Predicting the Ki-67 Index of Lung Cancer： An Exploratory Study
Authors: Fu Qing , Liu Shun li , Hao Da peng , Hu Ya bin , Liu Xue jun , Zhang Zaixian , Wang Wen hong , Tang Xiao yan , Zhang Chuan yu , Liu Shi he
Published: October 2021

Objective

To establish a radiomics signature and a nomogram model based on enhanced CT images to predict the Ki-67 index of lung cancer.

Methods

From January 2014 to December 2018, 282 patients with lung cancer who had undergone enhanced CT scans and Ki-67 examination within 2 weeks were retrospectively enrolled and analyzed. The clinical data of the patients were collected, such as age, sex, smoking history, maximum tumor diameter and serum tumor markers. Our primary cohort was randomly divided into a training group (n=197) and a validation group (n=85) at a 7:3 ratio. A Ki-67 index ≤ 40% indicated low expression, and a Ki-67 index > 40% indicated high expression. In total, 396 radiomics features were extracted using AK software. Feature reduction and selection were performed using the lasso regression model. Logistic regression analysis was used to establish a multivariate predictive model to identify high and low Ki-67 expression in lung cancer. A nomogram integrating the radiomics score was established based on multiple logistic regression analysis. Area under the curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the prediction efficiency of the radiomics signature and nomogram.

Results

The AUC,sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the radiomics signature in the training and validation groups were 0.88 (95% CI: 0.82~0.93),79.2%,84.3%,81.2% and 0.86 (95% CI: 0.78~0.94),74.6%,88.1%,79.8%, respectively. A nomogram combining radiomics features and clinical risk factors (smoking history and NSE) was developed. The AUC, sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 0.87 (95% CI: 0.80~0.95), 75.0%, 90.2% and 83.5% in the validation group, respectively.

Conclusion

The radiomics signature and nomogram based on enhanced CT images provide a way to predict the Ki-67 expression level in lung cancer.
Vascular Birthmarks as a Clue for Complex and Syndromic Vascular Anomalies
Authors: Diociaiuti Andrea , Paolantonio Guglielmo , Zama Mario , Alaggio Rita , Carnevale Claudia , Conforti Andrea , Cesario Claudia , Dentici Maria Lisa , Buonuomo Paola Sabrina , Rollo Massimo , El Hachem May
Published: October 2021

Vascular birthmarks are common in neonates (prevalence: 20–30%) and mostly incidental findings sometimes with spontaneous regression (salmon patch and nevus simplex). Capillary malformations are found in about 1% and infantile hemangiomas are found in 4% of mature newborns. Vascular malformations are classified according to their most prominent vessel type. The term “capillary malformation” (port wine stain) includes a wide range of vascular lesions with different characteristics; they may be isolated or part of specific syndromic conditions. Part of the infantile hemangiomas and of the vascular malformations may require treatment for functional or cosmetic reasons, and in rare cases, investigations are also necessary as they represent a clue for the diagnosis of complex vascular malformation or tumors associated with extracutaneous abnormalities. Complex vascular malformations are mostly mosaicism due to early somatic mutations. Genetic advances have led to identify the main pathogenic pathways involved in this disease group. Diffuse capillary malformation with overgrowth, Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome, CLAPO syndrome, CLOVES syndrome, and megalencephaly-capillary malformation belong to the PIK3CA-related overgrowth. Capillary malformation–arteriovenous malformation underlies a fast-flow vascular malformation, sometimes manifesting as Parkes–Weber syndrome. Recognition of these different types of capillary vascular stains is sometimes difficult; however, associated findings may orient the clinicians while genetic testing may confirm the diagnosis. Lymphatic malformation frequently manifests as large masses that compress and/or infiltrate the surrounding tissues, representing a neonatal emergency when airways are involved. Infantile hemangiomas may cause functional and/or permanent esthetical damage, depending on their localization (such as periorbital area, lip, nose); large (more than 5 cm) infantile hemangiomas with a segmental distribution can be associated with obstruction or malformations of the underneath organs with complications: PHACE syndrome, LUMBAR/SACRAL syndrome, and beard infantile hemangioma. In our review, we discuss controversies regarding the international classification and emerging concepts in the field of vascular anomalies. Finally, we discuss potential developments of new, non-invasive diagnostic techniques and repurposing of target therapies from oncology. Complex and/or life-threatening vascular tumors and malformations are extremely rare events and they represent a considerable therapeutic challenge. Early recognition of clinical signs suggestive for a specific disease may improve therapeutic outcomes and avoid severe complications.
From Toxicity to Selectivity: Coculture of the Fluorescent Tumor and Non-Tumor Lung Cells and High-Throughput Screening of Anticancer Compounds
Authors: Skvortsov D.A. , Kalinina M.A. , Zhirkina I.V. , Vasilyeva L.A. , Ivanenkov Y.A. , Sergiev P.V. , Dontsova O.A.
Published: October 2021

For the search of anticancer compounds in modern large chemical libraries, new approaches are of great importance. Cocultivation of the cells of tumor and non-tumor etiology may reveal specific action of chemicals on cancer cells and also take into account some effects of the tumor cell’s microenvironment. The fluorescent cell cocultivation test (FCCT) has been developed for screening of substances that are selectively cytotoxic on cancerous cells. It is based on the mixed culture of lung carcinoma cells A549’_EGFP and noncancerous fibroblasts of lung VA13_Kat, expressing different fluorescent proteins. Analysis of the cells was performed with the high-resolution scanner to increase the detection rate. The combination of cocultivation of cells with scanning of fluorescence reduces the experimental protocol to three steps: cells seeding, addition of the substance, and signal detection. The FCCT analysis does not disturb the cells and is compatible with other cell-targeted assays. The suggested method has been adapted for a high-throughput format and applied for screening of 2,491 compounds. Three compounds were revealed to be reproducibly selective in the FCCT although they were invisible in cytotoxicity tests in individual lines. Six structurally diverse indole, coumarin, sulfonylthiazol, and rifampicin derivatives were found and confirmed with an independent assay (MTT) to be selectively cytotoxic to cancer cells in the studied model.
Tnfaip6 Secreted by Bone Marrow–Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuates TNBS-Induced Colitis by Modulating Follicular Helper T Cells and Follicular Regulatory T Cells Balance in Mice
Authors: Gu Guangli , Lv Xiaodan , Liu Gengfeng , Zeng Ruizhi , Li Shiquan , Chen Lan , Liang Zhaoliang , Wang Huiqin , Lu Fei , Zhan Lingling , Lv Xiaoping
Published: October 2021

Objective: To investigate the immunological mechanism of bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods: Mice with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)–induced colitis were intraperitoneally injected with phosphate-buffered saline, BM-MSCs, BM-MSCs with tumor necrosis factor–induced protein 6 (Tnfaip6) knockdown mediated by RNA interference recombinant adenovirus, and BM-MSCs–infected with control adenovirus or recombinant mouse Tnfaip6. The disease activity index, weight loss, and histological scores were recorded. Serum levels of Tnfaip6 and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-21, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-10 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relative expression levels of these cytokines, B-cell lymphoma 6 (BCL-6) and fork-like transcription factor p3 (Foxp3) in the colon were determined by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). BCL-6 and Foxp3 are the master regulators of follicular helper T cells (Tfh) and follicular regulatory T cells (Tfr), respectively. The infiltration of Tfh and Tfr in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) and spleens was analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results: Compared to the normal control group, the expression levels of BCL-6 and IL-21 in the colon, Tfh infiltration, and ratios of Tfh/Tfr in the MLNs and spleen, and the serum concentrations of IL-21 and TNF-α increased significantly in the colitis model group (p < 0.05). Intraperitoneal injection of BM-MSCs or Tnfaip6 ameliorated weight loss and clinical and histological severity of colitis, downregulated the expression of BCL-6, IL-21, and TNF-α, upregulated the expression of Foxp3, IL-10, and Tnfaip6 (p < 0.05), increased Tfr and reduced the infiltration of Tfh in the MLNs and spleen, and downregulated the Tfh/Tfr ratio (p < 0.05). On the other hand, BM-MSCs lost the therapeutic effect and immune regulatory functions on Tfh and Tfr after Tnfaip6 knockdown.

Conclusion: Tfh increase in the inflamed colon, Tfh decrease and Tfr increase during the colitis remission phase, and the imbalance of the Tfh/Tfr ratio is closely related to the progression of IBD. Tnfaip6 secreted by BM-MSCs alleviates IBD by inhibiting Tfh differentiation, promoting Tfr differentiation, and improving the imbalance of Tfh/Tfr in mice.
Facilitating English Grammar Learning by a Personalized Mobile-Assisted System With a Self-Regulated Learning Mechanism
Authors: Wang Xiao , Chen Jing , Zhang Tingting
Published: October 2021

This study developed a personalized mobile-assisted system with a self-regulated learning (SRL) mechanism to facilitate English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) students’ learning of grammar. A quasi-experimental design, involving an experimental group (n = 278) and a control group (n = 320), was adopted to examine its effectiveness on students’ grammar learning. The experimental group, who had full access to the functions of the system (i.e., recommendations, feedback and an e-portfolio package), used the system to learn grammar, complete grammar exercise, and engage in for a semester, while the control group only use the system to submit weekly assignments. The results suggest that the experimental group obtained significantly higher scores in English grammar tests than the control group and the system benefited both genders with no significant differences. The findings provide empirical evidence in support of the effectiveness of this system in improving students’ grammar test scores, indicating its value as a supplementary tool to conventional classroom teaching of English grammar via supporting learners’ SRL development in a m-learning context. The pedagogical implications for applying this system in classrooms and beyond were discussed.
Music in Quarantine: Connections Between Changes in Lifestyle, Psychological States, and Musical Behaviors During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Terasawa Hiroko , Matsubara Masaki , Goudarzi Visda , Sadakata Makiko
Published: October 2021

Music is not only the art of organized sound but also a compound of social interaction among people, built upon social and environmental foundations. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, containment measures such as shelter-in-place, lockdown, social distancing, and self-quarantine have severely impacted the foundation of human society, resulting in a drastic change in our everyday experience. In this paper, the relationships between musical behavior, lifestyle, and psychological states during the shelter-in-place period of the COVID-19 pandemic are investigated. An online survey on musical experience, lifestyle changes, stress level, musical behaviors, media usage, and environmental sound perception was conducted. The survey was conducted in early June 2020. Responses from 620 people in 24 countries were collected, with the large proportion of the responses coming from the U.S. (55.5%) and India (21.4%). Structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis revealed causal relationships between lifestyle, stress, and music behaviors. Elements such as stress-level change, work risk, and staying home contribute to changes in musical experiences, such as moderating emotion with music, feeling emotional with music, and being more attentive to music. Stress-level change was correlated with work risk and income change, and people who started living with others due to the outbreak, especially with their children, indicated less change in stress level. People with more stress-level change tended to use music more purposefully for their mental well-being, such as to moderate emotions, to influence mood, and to relax. In addition, people with more stress-level change tend to be more annoyed by neighbors' noise. Housing type was not directly associated with annoyance; however, attention to environmental sounds decreased when the housing type was smaller. Attention to environmental and musical sounds and the emotional responses to them are highly inter-correlated. Multi-group SEM based on musicians showed that the causal relationship structure for professional musicians differs from that of less-experienced musicians. For professional musicians, staying at home was the only component that caused all musical behavior changes; stress did not cause musical behavior changes. Regarding Internet use, listening to music via YouTube and streaming was preferred over TV and radio, especially among less-experienced musicians, while participation in the online music community was preferred by more advanced musicians. This work suggests that social, environmental, and personal factors and limitations influence the changes in our musical behavior, perception of sonic experience, and emotional recognition, and that people actively accommodated the unusual pandemic situations using music and Internet technologies.
Life Skills Link to Mind Wandering Among University Students: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Kase Takayoshi , Kawagoe Toshikazu
Published: October 2021

The occurrence of mind wandering (MW) leads to lower performance on memory tasks related to lecture contents in educational settings, which has been recognized as problematic. To date, several dispositional factors have been reported as being associated with MW. This study investigated whether another psychological component—life skills—is linked to MW. Specifically, it clarified the relationship between life skills and two types of MW: state MW (occurs while performing a given task) and trait MW (occurs subjectively in daily life), using a sample of university students. From the perspective of cognitive and emotional control functions, life skills are thought to be related to the occurrence of MW. In addition to common questionnaire surveys, by recording and analyzing the participants' self-reports for MW occurrence during the experimental task, we clarified not only the quantitative associations among the variables but also the qualitative differences. Multiple regression analysis for the data from 53 students showed that decision-making and coping-with-emotion skills are negatively related to the occurrence of mind wandering. The qualitative data additionally revealed that participants with high decision-making skills are more likely than those with low decision-making skills to attempt to maintain their concentration on the task by thinking about task execution. These results suggest that life skills are associated with MW and that the ability to inhibit MW may be enhanced by improving life skills because they comprise acquired, learnable behaviors and attitudes. Life skills training may help in reducing students' MW in educational contexts.
Impact of Synchronous and Asynchronous Settings of Online Teaching and Learning in Higher Education on Students’ Learning Experience During COVID-19
Authors: Fabriz Sabine , Mendzheritskaya Julia , Stehle Sebastian
Published: October 2021

The sudden impact of the COVID-19 pandemic challenged universities to provide students with online teaching and learning settings that were both immediately applicable and supportive of quality learning. This resulted in a broad variety of synchronous and asynchronous online settings of teaching and learning. While some courses balanced both kinds, others offered either predominantly synchronous or asynchronous teaching and learning. In a survey study with students (N=3,056) and teachers (N=396) from a large German university, we explored whether a predominance of synchronous or asynchronous teaching and learning settings in higher education was associated with certain student experiences and outcomes. Additionally, we examined how well these two types of teaching and learning settings support students’ basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness proposed by self-determination theory (SDT). Data were collected after the first online semester due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The results imply that from the students’ perspective, the teaching methods involved in the two settings of teaching and learning differ with regard to their potential to support social interaction and to support basic psychological needs as proposed by SDT. Students who studied mostly in synchronous settings reported more peer-centered activities such as feedback in comparison to students in mostly asynchronous settings. In contrast, teachers perceived fewer differences between teaching methods in synchronous and asynchronous settings, especially regarding feedback activities. Further, students in mostly synchronous settings reported greater support of their basic psychological needs for competence support and relatedness as well as a greater overall satisfaction with the online term compared to students in mostly asynchronous settings. Across all students, greater fulfillment of psychological needs and higher technology acceptance coincided with outcomes that are more favorable. Implications for the post-pandemic classroom are drawn.
How Singing can Help People With Dementia and Their Family Care-Partners: A Mixed Studies Systematic Review With Narrative Synthesis, Thematic Synthesis, and Meta-Integration
Authors: Thompson Zara , Baker Felicity A. , Tamplin Jeanette , Clark Imogen N.
Published: October 2021

Background: Recent research on the efficacy of music-based interventions for people with dementia have focused on specific outcomes and methods, and singing has been noted as a particularly beneficial activity. However, due to heterogeneity of research methods, there is a need to synthesise the findings of both quantitative and qualitative research in order to better understand both the impact and potential mechanisms of singing for people in this population.

Method: This systematic review included quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies, and analysed these using a systematic mixed-studies synthesis (with a results-based convergent approach). Quantitative and qualitative data were initially synthesised using a narrative synthesis and thematic synthesis method, respectively, before a final meta-integration method was used to synthesise common themes across the two data forms.

Results: Electronic and hand search strategies revealed 1,815 relevant studies, 40 of which met the full eligibility criteria. Narrative synthesis of quantitative data revealed six key outcome areas (quality of life; psychological well-being; cognition; engagement; activities of daily living; care-partner well-being), and thematic synthesis of qualitative data generated seven themes relating to the impact and mechanisms of singing (pragmatic elements; social benefits; mood; identity; memory; flow-on effects; and relationships). Meta-integration identified four key areas relating to the impact and mechanisms of singing for people with dementia and care-partners: psychological well-being, quality of life, cognition, and care-partner well-being.

Conclusion: Results from the syntheses suggest that singing can positively impact the lives of people with dementia and their care-partners, although due to heterogeneity of study design and outcome measures, it is difficult to draw conclusions based on quantitative data alone. Qualitative data provides further context and insights from participant perspectives, and when integrated with quantitative data, contextual factors that may influence the benefits that participants experience from singing are revealed.
Procrastination, Perfectionism, and Other Work-Related Mental Problems: Prevalence, Types, Assessment, and Treatment—A Scoping Review
Authors: Steinert Christiane , Heim Nikolas , Leichsenring Falk
Published: October 2021

Work-related mental problems can be defined as behaviors, emotions and cognitions that impede the successful completion of a task in a given time frame, i. e., the difficulty or inability to achieve important work-related goals. They are highly prevalent but have been neglected in psychology in general and as a target of psychotherapy in particular. Although work-related problems do not represent a mental disorder per se, they are associated with severe distress and high psychosocial costs. In this article, the prevalence of work-related problems, associated burden, diagnostic assessment and treatment are reviewed. So far, research has primarily focused on procrastination, i.e., the act of postponing or delaying tasks until the last minute or past the deadline. However, procrastination represents just one type of work-related problems among several others. Further forms of work-related problems are presented (e.g., perfectionism, or work-related problems in the context of specific personality types). The relation of work-related problems to specific mental disorders is discussed. Psychosocial interventions are the treatment of choice for work-related mental problems. However, response rates for the treatment of procrastination are limited, which calls for further research into which treatments work for whom. No evidence-based treatments are currently available for other types of work-related problems, with the exception of perfectionism, a personality trait that is also linked to problems in the field of work. Thus, there is a need to further improve the treatment of work-related problems including procrastination. For other types of work-related problems, effective treatments need to be developed and validated. They may be based on existing manualized treatments and extended by specific aspects or modules focusing on work-related problems.
Correlation Between Body Mass Index and Anterolateral Thigh Flap Thickness: A Retrospective Study From a Single Center in China
Authors: Yin Jianxin , Wang Lei , Yang Gongxin , Qin Xingjun , Xiong Ping
Published: October 2021

Background: During repair of oral and maxillofacial soft tissue defects, organ function is largely related to the amount of thickness of the flap. However, there are few studies on the influencing factors of the thickness of the flap. In this retrospective study, we aim to explore the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap thickness by computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound and provide guidance for evaluating the ALT flap thickness before surgery.

Methods: We selected three points A, B, and C on ALT flap and two skilled clinicians measured the thickness of these points. Age and gender as covariates and evaluated by the Chi-square analysis. Inter-group differences between the two BMI groups were examined by the student t test. Intra-group differences within each BMI group were tested by ANOVA. Linear regression analysis was performed to examine the relationship between BMI and ALT flap thickness.

Results: One hundred sixty patients measured by CT were included in this study, and the ALT flap thickness measured by CT were 8.96 mm and 11.00 mm (P < 0.0001, t test) at point B in groups with BMI<24.0 and BMI≥24.0, respectively. The thicknesses at points A, B, and C were significantly correlated with the BMI (P < 0.001, correlation analysis, r = 0.462, 0.372, and 0.349 at the points A, B, and C, retrospectively, Pearson test).

Conclusion: There was a significant correlation between the ALT flap thickness and BMI. A higher BMI was correlated with a thicker ALT flap.
Characterization, Density and In Vitro Controlled Release Properties of Mimosa (Acacia mearnsii) Tannin Encapsulated in Palm and Sunflower Oils
Authors: Ibrahim Shehu Lurwanu , Hassen Abubeker
Published: October 2021

Tannin has gained wider acceptance as a dietary supplement in contemporary animal nutrition investigations because of its potential to reduce enteric methane emission. However, a major drawback to dietary tannin intake is the bitter taste and instability in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The utilization of fats as coating materials will ensure appropriate masking of the tannin’s aversive taste and its delivery to the target site. The aims of this study were to encapsulate mimosa tannin with palm oil or sunflower oil, and to assess the microcapsules in terms of encapsulation efficiency, morphology, density, and in vitro release of tannin in media simulating the rumen (pH 5.6), abomasum (pH 2.9) and small intestine (pH 7.4). The microencapsulation of mimosa tannin in palm or sunflower oils was accomplished using a double emulsion technique. The results revealed that encapsulated mimosa tannins in palm oil (EMTP) and sunflower oil (EMTS) had high yields (59% vs. 58%) and encapsulation efficiencies (70% vs. 68%), respectively. Compared to unencapsulated mimosa tannin (UMT), the morphology showed that the encapsulated tannins were smaller in size and spherical in shape. The UMT had (p < 0.01) higher particle density (1.44 g/cm3) compared to 1.22 g/cm3 and 1.21 g/cm3 for the EMTS and EMTP, respectively. The proportion of tannins released by the UMT after 24 h in the rumen (94%), abomasum (92%) and small intestine (96%) simulated buffers, reduced (p < 0.01) to 24%, 21% and 19% for the EMTS and 18%, 20% and 16% for the EMTP in similar media and timeframe. The release kinetics for the encapsulated tannins was slow and steady, thus, best fitted by the Higuchi model while the UMT dissolved quickly, hence, only fitted to a First order model. Sequential tannin release also indicated that the EMTS and EMTP were stable across the GIT. It was concluded that the microencapsulation of mimosa tannin in palm or sunflower oils stabilized tannins release in the GIT simulated buffers with the potential to modify rumen fermentation. Further studies should be conducted on the palm and sunflower oils microcapsules’ lipid stability, fatty acid transfer rate in the GIT and antioxidant properties of the encapsulated tannins.
Effect of Fentanyl Infusion on Heart Rate Variability and Anaesthetic Requirements in Isoflurane-Anaesthetized Horses
Authors: Dmitrović Petra , Vanaga Jana , Dupont Julien , Franck Thierry , Gougnard Alexandra , Detilleux Johann , Kovalcuka Liga , Salciccia Alexandra , Serteyn Didier , Sandersen Charlotte
Published: October 2021

Controversy continues to surround the use of opioids in equine anaesthesia, with variable effects reported. This blinded clinical study aimed to investigate the influence of a low-dose fentanyl continuous rate infusion (CRI) on isoflurane requirements, parasympathetic tone activity (PTA), and anaesthetic parameters in horses during general anaesthesia. All of the twenty-two horses included in the research underwent a standard anaesthetic protocol. Eleven horses in the fentanyl group (Group F) received a loading dose of fentanyl at 6 µg/kg, followed by a CRI of 0.1 µg/kg/min during anaesthesia. A further 11 horses in the control group (Group C) received equivalent volumes of normal saline. Anaesthetic parameters and PTA index were recorded during anaesthesia. The achieved mean fentanyl plasma concentration was 6.2 ± 0.83 ng/mL. No statistically significant differences between groups were found in isoflurane requirements, MAP values, and mean dobutamine requirements. However, horses in Group F required a significantly lower dose of additional ketamine to maintain a sufficient depth of anaesthesia. Significantly higher PTA values were found in the fentanyl group. Further research is warranted to determine the limitations of PTA monitoring, and the influence of various anaesthetics on its values.
Effect of Feed Supplementation with Clostridium butyricum, Alone or in Combination with Carob Meal or Citrus Pulp, on Digestive and Metabolic Status of Piglets
Authors: López Marina , Madrid Josefa , Hernández Fuensanta , Ros Martín Antonio , Segura Juan Carlos , López Miguel José , Pallarés Francisco José , Sánchez Cristian Jesús , Martínez-Miró Silvia
Published: October 2021

This work studied the effects of the inclusion of Clostridium butyricum on feed, alone or with carob meal or citrus pulp, on the digestive and metabolic status of weaned piglets. A total of 30 male piglets (weaned at 21 days) is used. There are five dietary treatments: negative without ZnO at high doses (C−), a positive control supplemented with ZnO at 2500 ppm of Zn (C+), supplemented with Clostridium butyricum as a probiotic (PRO), and supplemented with probiotic and 5% carob meal (PROC) or 5% citrus pulp (PROP). During the experiment (27 days), the piglets were periodically weighed and sampled for a serum biochemical, fecal microbiological, intestine histological, and digestive status analysis. The body weight, apparent ileal digestibility of dry matter (DM), and fecal microbiology were not affected by the treatments (p ≥ 0.05). However, the apparent fecal digestibility of DM was lower for the C− treatment than for C+ (p < 0.05), and the total concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in feces with C+ was lower than that for the PROC treatment (p < 0.05). The treatments with the probiotic had a higher molar proportion of butyric acid in feces than C+, and it was found that C− reached an intermediate value (p < 0.01). No general effects of diet were found on the histological measures performed on the jejunum and ileum, and in the serum biochemical analysis (p ≥ 0.05), only the concentration of interleukin-8 was lower for the PROC treatment compared to the C−, C+, and PRO treatments (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the intestinal wellness of piglets could be improved with the supplementation of Clostridium butyricum by increasing butyric acid, and this effect was not altered with the inclusion of carob meal or citrus pulp. More studies under commercial conditions are needed, as the effects might be different in more challenging environmental circumstances.
Effect of Natural Sorbents in the Diet of Fattening Pigs on Meat Quality and Suitability for Processing
Authors: Ossowski Mateusz , Wlazło Łukasz , Nowakowicz-Dębek Bożena , Florek Mariusz
Published: October 2021

The effect of three natural sorbents added to the diet of pigs on the composition and physicochemical properties of two skeletal muscles—the musculusLongissimuslumborum (MLL) and musculussemimembranosus (MSM) of crossbred pigs were evaluated. The experiment was carried out on a farm in two production cycles. The addition of biochar (trial 1) significantly influenced instrumental color parameters, shear force and energy, and the oxidative stability of the skeletal muscles, while the proximate composition, pH, texture, and water-holding capacity (WHC) parameters did not differ significantly between groups in either of the two muscles. Similarly, no statistical differences were noted in the proximate chemical composition, texture parameters, or WHC of the meat in trial 2. The addition of both sorbents was associated with a significantly (p ≤ 0.01) lower content of haem pigments in the MLL and MSM, which was accompanied by a significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher lightness (L*). Moreover, the MLL muscle of the pigs had higher oxidative stability, as well as lower drip loss (DL). In turn, the MSM of pigs had a significantly lower pH compared to the control group, however, the ultimate pH (48 h) in all groups was within the acceptable range (5.50–5.80). Summing up, the sorbents used are a safe ingredient in the diet of pigs, however, there is a need to continue and strengthen this line of research, including the relationships linking the future production goals of pig farming and processing potential in the meat industry with current climate policy.
Artificial Reproductive Technology (ART) Applied to Female Cervids Adapted from Domestic Ruminants
Authors: Korzekwa Anna J. , Kotlarczyk Angelika M.
Published: October 2021

There are about 150 Cervidae species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Only a small part is counted among farm animals, and most of them are free roaming. The universality and large numbers of representatives of cervids such as red deer (Cervus elaphus) and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) may predispose these species to be used as models for research on reintroduction or assisted reproduction of deer at risk of extinction. We outlined the historical fluctuation of cervids in Europe and the process of domestication, which led to breeding management. Consequently, the reproductive techniques used in domestic ruminants were adapted for use in female deer which we reviewed based on our results and other available results. We focused on stress susceptibility in cervids depending on habitat and antropopression and proposed copeptin as a novel diagnostic parameter suitable for stress determination. Some reproductive biotechniques have been adopted for female cervids with satisfactory results, e.g., in vitro fertilization, while others still require methodological refinement, e.g., cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos.
Impact of Soil Microbes and Oxygen Availability on Bacterial Community Structure of Decomposing Poultry Carcasses
Authors: Miguel Michelle A. , Kim Seon-Ho , Lee Sang-Suk , Cho Yong-Il
Published: October 2021

The impact of soil with an intact microbial community and oxygen availability on moisture content, soil pH, and bacterial communities during decomposition of poultry carcasses was investigated. Poultry carcasses were decomposed in soil with or without a microbial community, under aerobic or anaerobic conditions. The samples collected in each microcosm burial set-up were analyzed by targeted 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and Amplicon sequence variants (ASV) method. Our results showed that moisture was high in the burial set-ups under anaerobic conditions and pH was high in the burial set-ups under aerobic conditions. Meanwhile, the Chao1 and Shannon index significantly differed between the different burial set-ups and across different time points. In addition, bacterial taxa composition during the early period of decomposition differed from that of the late period. A total of 23 phyla, 901 genera, and 1992 species were identified. Firmicutes was the most dominant phyla in all burial set-ups throughout the decomposition. At day 60, Pseudogracilibacillus was dominant in the burial set-ups under aerobic conditions, while Lentibacillus dominated in the burial set-ups under anaerobic conditions. This study demonstrated that the soil microbial community and availability of oxygen significantly affected the changes in moisture content, pH, and bacterial composition during the decomposition process.
Design of a Dual-Band Compact Integrated Remote Sensing System for Visible Light and Long-Wave Infrared
Authors: Li Ruichang , Zou Gangyi , Feng Liangjie , Fan Xuewu
Published: October 2021

This paper presents a design of a dual-band integrated space telescope system for visible light and long-wave infrared. The system can simultaneously image the visible light band of 450–900 nm and the long-wave infrared band of 7700–10,500 nm. The dual-band integrated imaging system can freely switch the observation band to adapt to different scenes and environmental changes. The camera can also further expand its capabilities in the fields of multi-spectral observation and low-light observation by collocation with different detectors. This design is based on a coaxial reflection system, the two bands share the camera’s primary and secondary mirrors, and the separation of the two bands is achieved through a separate field of view design. After simulation, the average Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) value of the visible light band of the system at 50 lp/mm (line pairs per millimeter) reaches 0.45, and the average MTF value of the long-wave infrared band at 50 lp/mm reaches 0.36. In addition, tolerance analysis, ambient temperature analysis and transmittance analysis of the integrated system are carried out in this paper to further improve the integrated system scheme, and the feasibility of the system is further verified.
Effects of Linewidth Broadening Method on Recoil of Sodium Laser Guide Star
Authors: Liu Xiangyuan , Qian Xianmei , He Rui , Liu Dandan , Cui Chaolong , Fan Chuanyu , Yuan Hao
Published: October 2021

The linewidth broadening of the circular-polarized continuous wave laser mitigates the recoil effects of the sodium laser guide star very well. By choice of the optimal laser linewidth, the relations between the laser intensity and average spontaneous emission rates are obtained. The numerically simulated results show that the 1–100 MHz linewidth broadening effectively weakens recoil and enhances the average spontaneous emission rates. For laser powers from 10 W to 60 W, considering the intensity distribution with random at the mesospheric sodium layer, when the laser linewidth is broadened to be 1–100 MHz from 0 MHz, increments of the return photons go up to 110% from 50% and do not have an effect on the spot sizes of the sodium laser guide star. Several cases have proven that the linewidth broadening method is correct. Further calculations show that the linewidth broadening method similarly applies to the case of the multi-mode laser. Furthermore, the linewidth broadening of re-pumping should be taken into account.
Disappearance of Temporal Collinearity in Vertebrates and Its Eventual Reappearance
Authors: Papageorgiou Spyros
Published: October 2021

It was observed that a cluster of ordered genes (Hox1, Hox2, Hox3…) in the genome are activated in the ontogenetic units (1, 2, 3 …) of an embryo along the Anterior/Posterior axis following the same order of the Hox genes. This Spatial Collinearity (SC) is very strange since it correlates events of very different spatial dimensions. It was later observed in vertebrates, that, in the above ordering, first is Hox1expressed in ontogenetic unit 1, followed later by Hox2 in unit 2 and even later Hox3 in unit 3. This temporal collinearity (TC) is an enigma and even to-day is explored in depth. In 1999 T. Kondo and D. Duboule, after posterior upstream extended DNA excisions, concluded that the Hox cluster behaves ‘as if’ TC disappears. Here the consideration of TC really disappearing is taken face value and its repercussions are analyzed. Furthermore, an experiment is proposed to test TC disappearance. An outcome of this experiment could be the reappearance (partial or total) of TC.
Forgiveness in the Modulation of Responsibility in a Sample of Italian Adolescents with a Tendency towards Conduct or Obsessive–Compulsive Problems
Authors: Buonanno Carlo , Iuliano Enrico , Grossi Giuseppe , Mancini Francesco , Stendardo Emiliana , Tudisco Fabrizia , Pizzini Barbara
Published: October 2021

Although obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) and the conduct disorders (CD) express a contrasting symptomatology, they could represent different answers to a common matrix about morality. In the literature, some theoretical models describe people with OCD as individuals who experience high levels of responsibility and guilt. On the other hand, adolescents with a CD are described as if they do not feel guilty at all or consider anti-social purposes as more important than existing moral purposes. The aims of this study were to investigate the role of forgiveness in responsibility and guilt levels and to test whether this putative relation was influenced by tendencies towards obsessive–compulsive problems (OCP) or conduct problems (CP). In total, 231 adolescents aged between 16 and 18 years were self-assessed using a Youth Self-Report, Child Responsibility Attitudes Questionnaire, Heartland Forgiveness Scale, and Test Of Self-Conscious Affect. The results show that self-forgiveness predicted responsibility levels, while guilt was predicted by self-forgiveness and situation-forgiveness. Moreover, mediation analyses revealed that the effects of OCP on responsibility and guilt were mediated by self-forgiveness and situation-forgiveness. Regarding CP, no mediated effects were found. In conclusion, lower proneness to forgive increases responsibility and guilt, and this is particularly evident in subjects with higher levels of OCP.
Correction: Choi et al. Feasibility and Effect of Electroacupuncture on Cognitive Function Domains in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci. 2021, 11, 756
Authors: Choi Yujin , Jung In-Chul , Kim Ae-Ran , Park Hyo-Ju , Kwon Ojin , Lee Jun-Hwan , Kim Joo-Hee
Published: October 2021

The authors wish to make the following correction to [...]
A Core Transcription Regulatory Circuitry Defining Microglia Cell Identity Inferred from the Reanalysis of Multiple Human Microglia Differentiation Protocols
Authors: Aubert Antoine , Stüder François , Colombo Bruno Maria , Mendoza-Parra Marco Antonio
Published: October 2021

Microglia, the immune cells in the brain involved in both homeostasis and injury/infection control, play a predominant role in neurodegenerative diseases. In vivo studies on microglia are limited due to the requirement of surgical intervention, which can lead to the destruction of the tissues. Over the last few years, multiple protocols—presenting a variety of strategies—have described microglia differentiation issued from human pluripotent stem cells. Herein, we have reanalyzed the transcriptomes released on six different microglia differentiation protocols and revealed a consensus core of master transcription regulatory circuitry defining microglia identity. Furthermore, we have discussed the major divergencies among the studied protocols and have provided suggestions to further enhance microglia differentiation assays.
Fear Extinction-Based Inter-Individual and Sex Differences in Pain-Related Vocalizations and Anxiety-like Behaviors but Not Nocifensive Reflexes
Authors: Presto Peyton , Ji Guangchen , Junell Riley , Griffin Zach , Neugebauer Volker
Published: October 2021

Inter-individual and sex differences in pain responses are recognized but their mechanisms are not well understood. This study was intended to provide the behavioral framework for analyses of pain mechanisms using fear extinction learning as a predictor of phenotypic and sex differences in sensory (mechanical withdrawal thresholds) and emotional-affective aspects (open field tests for anxiety-like behaviors and audible and ultrasonic components of vocalizations) of acute and chronic pain. In acute arthritis and chronic neuropathic pain models, greater increases in vocalizations were found in females than males and in females with poor fear extinction abilities than females with strong fear extinction, particularly in the neuropathic pain model. Female rats showed higher anxiety-like behavior than males under baseline conditions but no inter-individual or sex differences were seen in the pain models. No inter-individual and sex differences in mechanosensitivity were observed. The data suggest that vocalizations are uniquely suited to detect inter-individual and sex differences in pain models, particularly in chronic neuropathic pain, whereas no such differences were found for mechanosensitivity, and baseline differences in anxiety-like behaviors disappeared in the pain models.