bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low Expression of SLC7A11 Confers Drug Resistance and Worse Survival in Ovarian Cancer via Inhibition of Cell Autophagy as a Competing Endogenous RNA
Authors: Ke Yao , Chen Xiaoying , Su Yuting , Chen Cuilan , Lei Shunmei , Xia Lianping , Wei Dan , Zhang Han , Dong Caihua , Liu Xia , Yin Fuqiang
Published: November 2021

Drug resistance is the main cause of chemotherapy failure in ovarian cancer (OC), and identifying potential druggable targets of autophagy is a novel and promising approach to overcoming drug resistance. In this study, 131 genes associated with autophagy were identified from three autophagy-related databases, and of these, 14 were differentially expressed in 90 drug-resistant OC tissues versus 197 sensitive tissues according to the Cancer Genome Atlas ovarian cancer cohort. Among these 14 genes, SLC7A11 was significantly decreased in two paclitaxel-resistant OC cells (HeyA8-R and SKOV3-R) and in 90 drug-resistant tissues compared with their controls. In vitro overexpression of SLC7A11 significantly increased the sensitivity of HeyA8-R cells to paclitaxel, inhibited colony formation, induced apoptosis, and arrested cell cycle. Further, low SLC7A11 expression was correlated with poor overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and post-progression survival (PPS) in 1815 OC patients. Mechanistically, SLC7A11 strongly regulated cell autophagy as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) based on pan-cancer analyses of 32 tumor types. Specifically, as a ceRNA for autophagy genes STX17, RAB33B, and UVRAG, SLC7A11 was strongly and positively co-expressed with these three genes in 20, 12, and 12 different tumors, respectively, in 379 OC tissues and in 90 drug-resistant OC tissues, and the former two were significantly upregulated in SLC7A11-overexpressed HeyA8-R cells. Further, SLC7A11 induced the protein expression of other autophagy genes, such as LC3, Atg16L1, and Atg7, and the expression of the respective proteins was further increased when the cells were treated with paclitaxel. The results strongly suggest that SLC7A11 regulates autophagy via ceRNA interactions with the three abovementioned genes in pan-cancer and in drug-resistant OC. Moreover, low expression of STX17 and UVRAG also significantly predicted low OS, PFS, and PPS. The combination of SLC7A11 with STX17 was more predictive of OS and PFS than either individually, and the combination of SLC7A11 with UVRAG was highly predictive of OS and PPS. The above results indicated that decreased SLC7A11 resulted in drug resistance and effected low rates of survival in OC patients, probably via ceRNA interactions with autophagy genes, and thus the gene could serve as a therapeutic target and potential biomarker in OC.
Anti-Tumor Activity of AZD4547 Against NTRK1 Fusion Positive Cancer Cells Through Inhibition of NTRKs
Authors: Cho Hanna , Kim Namkyoung , Murakami Takashi , Sim Taebo
Published: November 2021

Inhibitors of tropomyosin-related kinases (TRKs) display remarkable outcomes in the regression of cancers harboring the Neurotrophin Receptors Tyrosine Kinase (NTRK) fusion gene. As a result, TRKs have become attractive targets in anti-cancer drug discovery programs. Here, we demonstrate that AZD4547, a highly potent and selective inhibitor of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), displays anti-tumor activity against KM12(Luc) harboring the TPM3-NTRK1 fusion gene associated with its direct inhibition of TRKs. The results of profiling, using a 64-member in-house cancer cell panel, show that AZD4547 displays anti-proliferation activity against KM12(Luc) with a GI50 of 100 nM. In vitro biochemical assays reveal that AZD4547 has IC50 values of 18.7, 22.6 and 2.9 nM against TRKA, B and C, respectively. In a cellular context, AZD4547 blocks auto-phosphorylation of TRKs and phosphorylation of its downstream molecules including PLC-gamma and AKT in a dose dependent manner. Also, AZD4547 at 0.1 μM concentration downregulates expression of MAPK target genes (DUSP6, CCND1 and ETV1) as well as the E2F pathway. Furthermore, AZD4547 induces G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis, and suppresses anchorage independent growth of KM12(Luc). Oral administration of 40 mpk AZD4547 dramatically delays tumor growth in a KM12(Luc) implemented xenograft model, without promoting body weight changes. The capability of AZD4547 to inhibit TRKA, TRKB and clinically relevant mutants (TRKA G595R, G667S, G667C and G667A) was also evaluated using Ba/F3 cells harboring the ETV6-NTRKs fusion gene. The combined observations demonstrate the potential application of AZD4547 for treatment of NTRK fusion driven cancers.
Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy-Candidiasis-Ectodermal Dystrophy
Authors: Ferré Elise M. N. , Schmitt Monica M. , Lionakis Michail S.
Published: November 2021

Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED), also known as autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type-1 (APS-1), is a rare monogenic autoimmune disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene. AIRE deficiency impairs immune tolerance in the thymus and results in the peripheral escape of self-reactive T lymphocytes and the generation of several cytokine- and tissue antigen-targeted autoantibodies. APECED features a classic triad of characteristic clinical manifestations consisting of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC), hypoparathyroidism, and primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease). In addition, APECED patients develop several non-endocrine autoimmune manifestations with variable frequencies, whose recognition by pediatricians should facilitate an earlier diagnosis and allow for the prompt implementation of targeted screening, preventive, and therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes our current understanding of the genetic, immunological, clinical, diagnostic, and treatment features of APECED.
Biological Bases of Immune-Related Adverse Events and Potential Crosslinks With Immunogenic Effects of Radiation
Authors: Bardoscia Lilia , Pasinetti Nadia , Triggiani Luca , Cozzi Salvatore , Sardaro Angela
Published: November 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have gained an established role in the treatment of different tumors. Indeed, their use has dramatically changed the landscape of cancer care, especially for tumor types traditionally known to have poor outcomes. However, stimulating anticancer immune responses may also elicit an unusual pattern of immune-related adverse events (irAEs), different from those of conventional chemotherapy, likely due to a self-tolerance impairment featuring the production of autoreactive lymphocytes and autoantibodies, or a non-specific autoinflammatory reaction. Ionizing radiation has proven to promote both positive pro-inflammatory and immunostimolatory activities, and negative anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive mechanisms, as a result of cross-linked interactions among radiation dose, the tumor microenvironment and the host genetic predisposition. Several publications argue in favor of combining immunotherapy and a broad range of radiation schedules, based on the recent evidence of superior treatment responses and patient survival. The synergistic modulation of the immune response by radiation therapy and immunotherapeutics, particularly those manipulating T-cell activation, may also affect the type and severity of irAEs, suggesting a relationship between the positive antitumor and adverse autoimmune effects of these agents. As yet, information on factors that may help to predict immune toxicity is still lacking. The aim of our work is to provide an overview of the biological mechanisms underlying irAEs and possible crosslinks with radiation-induced anticancer immune responses. We believe such an overview may support the optimization of immunotherapy and radiotherapy as essential components of multimodal anticancer therapeutic approaches. Challenges in translating these to clinical practice are discussed.
Pharmacokinetics and Monte Carlo Simulation of Meropenem in Critically Ill Adult Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Lee Jae Ha , Lee Dong-Hwan , Kim Jin Soo , Jung Won-Beom , Heo Woon , Kim Yong Kyun , Kim Se Hun , No Tae-Hoon , Jo Kyeong Min , Ko Junghae , Lee Ho Young , Jun Kyung Ran , Choi Hye Sook , Jang Ji Hoon , Jang Hang-Jea
Published: November 2021

Objectives: There have been few clinical studies of ECMO-related alterations of the PK of meropenem and conflicting results were reported. This study investigated the pharmacokinetics (PK) of meropenem in critically ill adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and used Monte Carlo simulations to determine appropriate dosage regimens.

Methods: After a single 0.5 or 1 g dose of meropenem, 7 blood samples were drawn. A population PK model was developed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. The probability of target attainment was evaluated using Monte Carlo simulation. The following treatment targets were evaluated: the cumulative percentage of time during which the free drug concentration exceeds the minimum inhibitory concentration of at least 40% (40% fT>MIC), 100% fT>MIC, and 100% fT>4xMIC.

Results: Meropenem PK were adequately described by a two-compartment model, in which creatinine clearance and ECMO flow rate were significant covariates of total clearance and central volume of distribution, respectively. The Monte Carlo simulation predicted appropriate meropenem dosage regimens. For a patient with a creatinine clearance of 50–130 ml/min, standard regimen of 1 g q8h by i. v. infusion over 0.5 h was optimal when a MIC was 4 mg/L and a target was 40% fT>MIC. However, the standard regimen did not attain more aggressive target of 100% fT>MIC or 100% fT>4xMIC.

Conclusion: The population PK model of meropenem for patients on ECMO was successfully developed with a two-compartment model. ECMO patients exhibit similar PK with patients without ECMO. If more aggressive targets than 40% fT>MIC are adopted, dose increase may be needed.
BCI Suppresses RANKL-Mediated Osteoclastogenesis and Alleviates Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss
Authors: Cai Chenhui , Hu Wenhui , Zhang Ying , Hu Xu , Yang Sizhen , Qiu Hao , Wang Rujie , Ma Min , Qiu Yiyun , Chu Tongwei
Published: November 2021

Osteoporosis is a common aging-related metabolic disease that mainly occurs in older adults and postmenopausal women. Despite advances in anti-osteoporosis treatment, outcomes remain unsatisfactory due to detrimental side effects. BCI hydrochloride (BCI), a selective dual-specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) inhibitor, is associated with multiple cellular functions, including inhibiting tumor growth and macrophage inflammation; however, its role in regulating osteoclast differentiation remains unknown. Here, we revealed that treatment with BCI attenuated RANKL-mediated osteoclast differentiation in vitro and alleviated ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis without obvious toxicity. Specifically, BCI disrupted F-actin ring formation and bone-resorption activity and decreased osteoclast-specific gene and protein levels in a dose-dependent manner. KEGG pathway analysis, GSEA based on transcriptome sequencing, and western blot results suggested that BCI inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis by restraining STAT3 and NF-κB signaling and attenuating NF-κB/p65 interaction with NFATc1. These results revealed that BCI treatment prevented postmenopausal osteoporosis and might represent an effective approach for treating osteoporosis.
Production of Feminized Seeds of High CBD Cannabis sativa L. by Manipulation of Sex Expression and Its Application to Breeding
Authors: Flajšman Marko , Slapnik Miha , Murovec Jana
Published: November 2021

The use of the cannabis plant as a source of therapeutic compounds is gaining great importance since restrictions on its growth and use are gradually reduced throughout the world. Intensification of medical (drug type) cannabis production stimulated breeding activities aimed at developing new, improved cultivars with precisely defined, and stable cannabinoid profiles. The effects of several exogenous substances, known to be involved in sex expressions, such as silver thiosulfate (STS), gibberellic acid (GA), and colloidal silver, were analyzed in this study. Various concentrations were tested within 23 different treatments on two high cannabidiol (CBD) breeding populations. Our results showed that spraying whole plants with STS once is more efficient than the application of STS on shoot tips while spraying plants with 0.01% GA and intensive cutting is ineffective in stimulating the production of male flowers. Additionally, spraying whole plants with colloidal silver was also shown to be effective in the induction of male flowers on female plants, since it produced up to 379 male flowers per plant. The viability and fertility of the induced male flowers were confirmed by fluorescein diacetate (FDA) staining of pollen grains,in vitroandin vivogermination tests of pollen, counting the number of seeds developed after hybridization, and evaluating germination rates of developed seeds. Finally, one established protocol was implemented for crossing selected female plants. The cannabinoid profile of the progeny was compared with the profile of the parental population and an improvement in the biochemical profile of the breeding population was confirmed. The progeny had a higher and more uniform total CBD (tCBD) to total tetrahydrocannabinol (tTHC) ratio (up to 29.6; average 21.33 ± 0.39) compared with the original population (up to 18.8; average 7.83 ± 1.03). This is the first comprehensive report on the induction of fertile male flowers on female plants from dioecious medical cannabis (Cannabis sativaL.).
Harnessing the Potential of Roots of Traditional Power Plant: Ocimum
Authors: Pandey Vibha , Swami Ravi Kant , Narula Alka
Published: November 2021

Genus Ocimum of Labiatae is well known in all traditional medicinal systems like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The pharmaceutical activities of different species of Ocimum attributed to all plant parts. Roots are the most significant vital organ of the plant, as they absorb water and nutrients from soil and transport to aerial parts of the plants. Roots of Ocimum were found helpful with free-radical scavenging activity to improve physical and mental strength as well as to treat diabetes, malaria, and liver problems. Antibacterial activity of Ocimum roots and its main component, rosmarinic acid, is very beneficial to protect against several human pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. Being so important in every way, roots of Ocimum need healthy rhizosphere. Bacteria, fungi, nematodes, types of soil, fungicide, pesticides, salt, radioactive elements, as well as heavy metal contaminations, affect roots and overall growth of Ocimum in positive or negative ways. Each component of rhizosphere (natural, treatment or contamination) affects the roots, which highlights current ecological scenario to discover biosafe and more productive approaches. For such prestigious organ of Ocimum, development of in vitro root cultures and hairy root cultures assists to reduce the efforts and timing of the traditional cultivation process along with elimination of negative factors in rhizosphere. Different strains of Agrobacterium rhizogenes, various media compositions, as well as discrete treatments, like elicitors, on nonidentical species or cultivars of Ocimum boost the root induction, biomass, and accumulation of phytoceuticals differently. Hairy roots and in vitro roots of Ocimum accumulate higher quantity of therapeutic metabolites. These metabolites include several phenolics (like rosmarinic acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, m-coumaric acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, vanillic acid, chicoric acid, and lithospermic acid), triterpenes (such as betulinic acid, 3-epimaslinic acid, alphitolic acid, euscaphic acids, oleanolic acid, and ursolic acid) as well as flavonoids (flavones, flavonols, and dihydroflavonols). This review highlights pharmaceutical applications of Ocimum roots, a great deal of rhizosphere components and in vitro culturing techniques to enhance biomass as well as chief phytoceuticals.
Prompting Socially Shared Regulation of Learning and Creativity in Solving STEM Problems
Authors: Michalsky Tova , Cohen Avigail
Published: November 2021

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a widely recommended method in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through which students develop their scientific knowledge by collaboratively solving real-world problems. PBL benefits from both the activation of creative thinking and from socially shared regulation of learning (SSRL)-a group-level phenomenon whereby students collectively share common perceptions of their collaborative learning process and co-construction of knowledge. The current study examines the influence of three types of support (question prompts designed to promote SSRL, creative thinking, or a combination of both) on the participation of individuals in SSRL processes and on their knowledge acquisition, using a sample of 104 seventh-graders in accelerated science classes. Individuals' participation through the different stages of SSRL (forethought, performance, and reflection) was assessed using video recordings, and their scientific knowledge was measured through pre-and post-intervention knowledge tests. While all groups improved their scientific knowledge, individuals receiving only SSRL support improved their participation in most stages of SSRL compared with those receiving creativity or combined support, and a control group which received no support. The findings strengthen the case for SSRL-directed question prompts as a means to enhance student engagement in problem-solving tasks.
Factors Associated With Hypertension Awareness, Treatment, and Control Among Adults in Kerala, India
Authors: Cao Yingting , Sathish Thirunavukkarasu , Haregu Tilahun , Wen Yu , Mello Gabrielli Thais de , Kapoor Nitin , Oldenburg Brian
Published: November 2021

Background: Hypertension, the most significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is an increasing contributor to global health burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as India. While the rates of hypertension awareness, treatment, and control in India have been reported in several studies, the factors associated with these rates are less well-understood. Existing studies are predominantly cross-sectional, and the factors examined are limited. Understanding the predictors associated with these rates, using more rigorous study designs, is crucial for the development of strategies to improve hypertension management.

Aims: To examine a range of factors associated with hypertension awareness, treatment, and control using both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses.

Methods: Data was derived from a population-based sample of 1,710 participants from Kerala, aged 30–60 years. We examined a comprehensive range of factors, including demographic, behavioral factors, anthropometric, clinical measures, psychosocial factors and healthcare utilization. Multilevel mixed effects logistic regression was used for both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses (repeated measures for all variables across 2 years) to determine the factors associated with awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension.

Results: A total of 467 (27.3%) participants had hypertension at baseline. Among those, the rates of awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension were 54.4, 25.5, and 36.4%, respectively. Being male (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.14–0.53) and consumption of alcohol (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.31–0.80) were significant predictors of poorly controlled hypertension (longitudinal analysis). Depression (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.15–3.61) and fair-to-poor self-perceived health status (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.15–3.04) were associated with increased hypertension awareness, whereas anxiety (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.04–3.71) was associated with increased hypertension treatment (cross-sectional analysis). Seeking outpatient service in the past 4 weeks was associated with higher awareness (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.27–2.87), treatment (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.20–2.50) and control (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.37–2.80) (longitudinal analysis).

Conclusion: Our findings suggest the importance of considering psychosocial factors and better engagement with health services in hypertension management, as well as giving more attention to body fat control and largely male-related behaviors such as alcohol consumption, taking into account of some Indian specific attributes.
Effects of Social Capital and Leisure Participation on Self-Rated Health of Urban Residents in Southwest China
Authors: Hu XiaoYan , Hu MingWen
Published: November 2021

Background: Leisure provides opportunities for urban and rural residents to relax, recover their vitality, and improve their personal growth, development, and well-being. However, the impact of the leisure participation process, types, obstacles, participation motivation, and satisfaction on health is not very clear, especially the impact of leisure behavior on health, and is worthy of in-depth discussion.

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the impact of social capital and leisure participation on the self-rated health of urban residents in China so as to provide an important reference for national health promotion activities.

Methods: the questionnaire on the relationship between social capital, leisure behavior, and self-rated health was compiled by ourselves. The residents participating in leisure and fitness in 25 residential fitness centers in Chengdu were investigated in the morning and evening, and the obtained data were processed by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis.

Results: (1) Social capital had no direct influence on leisure hindrance; leisure motivation and leisure participation had no direct influence on self-rated health. (2) Leisure satisfaction has a direct positive impact on self-rated health, while leisure hindrance has a significant negative impact on self-rated health. (3) Social capital has a direct positive impact on leisure satisfaction, and social capital has a direct positive impact on self-rated health. Leisure satisfaction plays an intermediary role in the path of social capital affecting self-rated health, and the intermediary force exceeds the direct impact of social capital on self-rated health.

Conclusion: The effect of leisure satisfaction on self-rated health is higher than that of social capital, and it plays an intermediary role in the impact path of social capital on self-rated health. Therefore, how to make urban community residents with different backgrounds obtain leisure satisfaction through leisure activities is an important topic of national health promotion.
Evidence for an Association Between Endometriosis and Allergic and Non-allergic Food Hypersensitivity Is Lacking
Authors: O'Malley Jocelyn , Iacovou Marina , Holdsworth-Carson Sarah J.
Published: November 2021

Endometriosis effects up to 1 in 9 women, and can be a severe and debilitating disease. It is suggested that there is a link between endometriosis and allergic hypersensitivities, including allergic and non-allergic food hypersensitivity. Best practice for managing endometriosis symptoms is holistic and includes broad multi-disciplinary care. Therefore, improving our understanding of common endometriosis comorbidities, including allergic and non-allergic food hypersensitivity, will assist in improving patient quality of life. This mini-review with systematic approach aims to explore the literature for evidence surrounding an association between endometriosis and allergic and/or non-allergic food hypersensitivity from the last 20 years. Of the 849 publications identified, five fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Only one publication reported a statistically significant increased risk for non-allergic food hypersensitivity in patients with endometriosis (P = 0.009), however, the endometriosis group was not uniform in diagnostic criteria and included individuals without laparoscopically visualized disease. No studies elucidated a statistically significant link between allergic food hypersensitivity alone and endometriosis. Therefore, based on a small number of studies with limited research quality, evidence does not support the existence of a link between endometriosis and allergic or non-allergic food hypersensitivity. Sufficiently powered evidence-based research is required, including information which better characterizes the patient's endometriosis symptoms, importantly the gastrointestinal sequalae, as well as specific allergic and non-allergic food hypersensitivities and method of diagnoses. Unequivocally confirming a link between endometriosis and food hypersensitivities is an essential step forward in dispelling the many myths surrounding endometriosis and improving management of disease.
How the Earth Recycles
Authors: Newville Christine , Whitney Donna L. , Kang Patricia , Raia Natalie H. , Fornash Katherine F.
Published: November 2021

Recycling is not just for plastic. Did you know that the Earth recycles? Recycling happens because the outer part of the planet is made up of large moving pieces of rock. Some of these pieces, called tectonic plates, sink deep down into the Earth. The deeper they go, the more heat and pressure they experience. This causes chemical reactions, including melting of the minerals that make up the rocks. Elements and water trapped inside the melting minerals are released and erupt from volcanoes, returning to the surface. The Earth has recycled! In this article, we present new research on a mineral called lawsonite. Lawsonite only forms in plates that dive into the Earth. Lawsonite has returned to the Earth’s surface in a few rare places where we can collect and analyze it. The composition of elements inside the lawsonite mineral help us understand the deep part of the Earth recycling system.
Minimal Erythema Dose Determination in Holstein Friesian Cattle
Authors: Hodnik Jaka Jakob , Jankovec Marko , Ježek Jožica , Krušič Žiga , Mitterhofer Stefan , Starič Jože
Published: November 2021

Cattle on pasture are continuously exposed to solar UV radiation, which has been associated with biological effects such as sunburn, photosensitization, squamous cell carcinoma, and cutaneous vitamin D3 production. The minimal erythema dose (MED) required to produce first-degree sunburn (erythema) is poorly researched in cattle. Since cattle are naturally covered with dense hair coats, the MED is influenced by the UV protection offered by the hair. The objective of this study was to determine the MED on intact-hair-covered (MED-H) and shaved white skin (MED-S) of Holstein Friesian cattle. Twenty-one Holstein Friesian cows and heifers were MED tested using a narrowband UV-B LED light (peak irradiance at 292 nm) on eight hair-covered and eight shaved areas over white skin previously unexposed to direct sunlight. Erythema was visually assessed after 24 h. The mean MED-H and MED-S were 5,595 and 329 J/m2, respectively. Heifers had a higher MED-H compared to cows, 7,600 and 4,969 J/m2, respectively. The mean UV transmittance of white cattle hair was 6.7%. MED-H was correlated with hair length (Spearman's rho = 0.76). A linear regression model showed that each millimeter of hair coat length increased the MED-H by 316 J/m2. In conclusion, this study provides a MED testing protocol for cattle and reports standardized values of MED for cattle on intact-hair-covered and shaved areas.
Tratamiento Cognitivo del Trastorno Obsesivo Compulsivo en Formato Online: un Caso Clínico
Authors: Gemar Fernández Elisabet Ana , López Alberca Cristina Romero
Published: November 2021

Se presenta el caso de una estudiante que acude al Servicio de Atención Psicológica de la Universidad de Cádiz con diagnóstico de trastorno obsesivo compulsivo. Los contenidos de las obsesiones están relacionados principalmente con la duda. Las compulsiones más frecuentes son de limpieza, comprobación y orden. Las metas principales del tratamiento fueron reducir la aparición de obsesiones y compulsiones, modificando las creencias disfuncionales que las mantienen y disminuir el malestar asociado. La sintomatología obsesivo compulsiva se evalúa con los instrumentos Y-BOCS-Gravedad, OCI-R, ICO-R, INPIOS. Se planifica y se aplica una intervención de terapia cognitiva basada en el protocolo propuesto por Belloch, Cabedo y Carrió (2011) para el TOC de cuestionamiento de las creencias disfuncionales que mantienen las obsesiones de la paciente y las estrategias que utiliza para afrontarlas. Se han llevado a cabo18 sesiones semanales en formato online de 1 hora de duración. Para modificar las creencias obsesivas se utilizaron técnicas cognitivas (análisis de evidencias a favor y en contra, ventajas y desventajas, flecha descendente o estimación de probabilidades) y experimentos conductuales orientados al cuestionamiento de creencias. Se ha producido una disminución en la intensidad de las creencias disfuncionales así como de la sintomatología obsesiva y del malestar.
Regulación Emocional en Adolescentes Institucionalizados de la Ciudad de México: un Estudio Piloto
Authors: Arias Martínez Ariadna , Tena Suck Antonio , Fernández de Juan Teresa , Mancillas Celia
Published: November 2021

Se desarrolló un estudio piloto cuasiexperimental, con un diseño pretest-postest de un grupo mixto de 13 adolescentes institucionalizados en una casa hogar mexicana, con el objetivo de analizar los cambios en los procesos de regulación emocional a partir de una intervención con psicoterapia psicodramática. Se aplicaron instrumentos cuantitativos y cualitativos. Con la prueba de Wilcoxon se evaluaron las diferencias de la regulación emocional, ansiedad social y depresión. Luego de la intervención, la ansiedad social disminuyó en mayor grado que la regulación emocional, aunque en ambas fue significativo el cambio. Existieron contradicciones al medir la depresión, pues no se encontraron valores relevantes con el inventario de Beck, mientras que los instrumentos cualitativos sí reflejaron la existencia de la misma. Nuestros análisis sugieren que el psicodrama resulta una alternativa psicoterapéutica efectiva para contribuir a una mayor regulación emocional en adolescentes institucionalizados, aunque sugerimos ajustes para su aplicación en este tipo de población.
Variation Trends of Fractal Dimension in Epileptic EEG Signals
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Li Jun , Xia Yousheng , Feng Pingfa , Feng Feng
Published: November 2021

Epileptic diseases take EEG as an important basis for clinical judgment, and fractal algorithms were often used to analyze electroencephalography (EEG) signals. However, the variation trends of fractal dimension (D) were opposite in the literature, i.e., both D decreasing and increasing were reported in previous studies during seizure status relative to the normal status, undermining the feasibility of fractal algorithms for EEG analysis to detect epileptic seizures. In this study, two algorithms with high accuracy in the D calculation, Higuchi and roughness scaling extraction (RSE), were used to study D variation of EEG signals with seizures. It was found that the denoising operation had an important influence on D variation trend. Moreover, the D variation obtained by RSE algorithm was larger than that by Higuchi algorithm, because the non-fractal nature of EEG signals during normal status could be detected and quantified by RSE algorithm. The above findings in this study could be promising to make more understandings of the nonlinear nature and scaling behaviors of EEG signals.
Development of a Wireless System to Control a Trombe Wall for Poultry Brooding
Authors: Mota Afonso , Briga-Sá Ana , Valente António
Published: November 2021

The Internet of Things asserts that several applications, such as smart cities or intelligent agriculture, can be based on various embedded systems programmed to do different tasks, by transferring data over a network from sensors to a server, where the information is stored and treated, supporting the decision-making process. In this context, LoRaWAN is an accurate network topology based on a wireless technology called LoRa that is capable of transmitting small data rates at a long range, using low-powered devices, making it ideal for the acquisition of climate variables, such as temperature and relative humidity. Applying this architecture to agriculture buildings can be very useful to guarantee indoor thermal comfort conditions. In this study, this technology is applied to a passive solar system composed by a high thermal inertia wall, defined as Trombe wall, with air vents provided in the massive wall to improve heat transfer by air convection, and an external shading device to avoid overheating during summer and heat losses during winter. It is intended to analyze the possibility to control the interiortemperature of a poultry brooding house given that, in the early stages of life, chickens need accurate climate conditions in order to enhance their growth and reduce their mortality rate. In brief, temperature values acquired by different sensors placed on the Trombe wall travel through a LoRaWAN wireless network and are received by an application that controls the actuators, in this case, the opening and closing of the Trombe wall air vents, while the external shading device is controlled locally.
The Effect of Rhizophagus irregularis, Bacillus subtilis and Water Regime on the Plant–Microbial Soil System: The Case of Lactuca sativa
Authors: Nikolaidou Charitini , Monokrousos Nikolaos , Kapagianni Pantelitsa D. , Orfanoudakis Michael , Dermitzoglou Triantafyllia , Papatheodorou Efimia M.
Published: November 2021

Inoculation with beneficial microbes represents a promising solution for sustainable agricultural production; however, knowledge on the effects of inoculants on the indigenous microbial communities remains limited. Here, we evaluated the impact of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizophagus irregularis and the promoting rhizobacterium Bacillus subtilis on the growth of Lactuca sativa. The biomass, the composition, and the enzyme activity (urease, acid phosphatase, and β-glycosidase) of the rhizosphere microbial community at two soil moisture levels (5 and 10% soil water content) were evaluated. Fungal colonization was lower in co-inoculated plants than those only inoculated with R. irregularis. Plant growth was enhanced in co-inoculated and B. subtilis inoculated soils. Bacterial biomass and the composition of the microbial communities responded to the joint effect of inoculant type × water regime while the biomass of the other microbial groups (fungi, actinomycetes, microeukaryotes) was only affected by inoculant type. Co-inoculation enhanced the activity of acid phosphatase, indicating a synergistic effect of the two inoculants. Co-inoculation positively impacted the index reflecting plant–microbial soil functions under both water regimes. We concluded that the interactions between the two inocula as well as between them and the resident rhizosphere microbial community were mainly negative. However, the negative interactions between R. irregularis and B. subtilis were not reflected in plant biomass. The knowledge of the plant and rhizosphere microbial responses to single and co-inoculation and their dependency on abiotic conditions is valuable for the construction of synthetic microbial communities that could be used as efficient inocula.
De novo QTL-seq Identifies Loci Linked to Blanchability in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) and Refines Previously Identified QTL with Low Coverage Sequence
Authors: Korani Walid , O’Connor Dan , Chu Ye , Chavarro Carolina , Ballen Carolina , Guo Baozhu , Ozias-Akins Peggy , Wright Graeme , Clevenger Josh
Published: November 2021

Blanchability is an often overlooked, but important trait for peanut breeding. The process of blanching, removing the skin, is an important step in the processing of raw nuts for manufacturing. Under strong genetic control and requiring considerable effort to phenotype, blanchability is conducive for marker-assisted selection. We used QTL sequencing (QTL-seq) to identify two QTLs related to blanchability using previously phenotyped breeding populations. To validate the QTLs, we show that two markers can select for significantly increased blanchability in an independent recombinant inbred line (RIL) population. Two wild introgressions from Arachis cardenasii conferring strong disease resistance were segregated in the population and were found to negatively impact blanchability. Finally, we show that by utilizing highly accurate sequence analysis pipelines, low coverage sequencing can be used to genotype whole populations with increased power and precision. This study highlights the potential to mine breeding data to identify and develop useful markers for genetic improvement programs, and provide powerful tools for breeding for processing and quality traits.
Effect of Sinapis alba L. as an Insectary Plant on the Occurrence of Aphis fabae Scop., Coccinellidae and Syrphidae in Broad Bean
Authors: Gospodarek Janina
Published: November 2021

Introducing insectary plants along with principal crops is an effective way to increase the biological diversity of beneficial insects and improve the stability of ecological equilibrium in agrocenoses and could be an alternative to chemical plant protection, particularly in organic farming. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of white mustard as a companion plant in broad bean cultivation on the occurrence of Aphis fabae Scop., Syrphidae, and Coccinellidae. The study also aimed at finding the optimum row separation of broad bean plants. It also evaluated the effectiveness of the thinning of mustard in a specific time to eliminate excessive competition with the main crop. The results showed that white mustard contributed to visible suppression of A. fabae abundance on broad bean (to the level similar as with the use of chemical protection). S. alba contributed to an increased abundance of hoverflies and lady beetles on broad bean despite the relatively low abundance of their prey, i.e., aphids. Mustard thinning positively affected abundance of larvae and adults of lady beetles as well as improved predator-prey ratio for hoverfly larvae and adult lady beetles. The most appropriate distance between broad bean rows when white mustard was introduced was 65 cm, with the concomitant conduct of mustard thinning when the broad bean plants reached flower bud formation. White mustard can be recommended as an element increasing the role of natural enemies of aphids in mixed crops, however, its strong growth should be taken into account and the plant density should be properly adjusted to avoid excessive competition with main plant.
Impact of Subsurface Application of Compound Mineral Fertilizer on Soil Enzymatic Activity under Reduced Tillage
Authors: Futa Barbara , Kraska Piotr , Andruszczak Sylwia , Gierasimiuk Paweł , Jaroszuk-Sierocińska Monika
Published: November 2021

Soil biochemical properties shaping soil fertility and agro-ecosystem productivity depend on the reduced tillage system and the dose and method of application of fertilizer; therefore, the research hypothesis put forward proposes that under reduced tillage system conditions, the subsurface application of a multi-component mineral fertilizer would increase soil enzymatic activity, thus favourably influencing the biodiversity of the soil environment. The objective of the three-year study was to evaluate the impact of subsurface application of varying mineral fertilizer rates on soil enzymatic activity under reduced tillage system conditions in soybean, winter wheat and maize rotations. The field experiment was set up as a split-plot design in four replicates. The first experimental factor included two methods of mineral fertilization application: fertilizer broadcast over the soil surface (S); fertilizer applied deep (subsurface placed) using a specially designed cultivator (Sub-S). The other factor was the rates of the mineral fertilizer (NPKS): 85 kg∙ha−1 (F85) and 170 kg∙ha−1 (F170). The method of application and rate of mineral fertilizer did not have a significant effect on the organic carbon and total nitrogen content in the soil of the plots with all rotational crops. Subsurface application of fertilizer significantly increased available phosphorus content in soil under soybean and winter wheat crops; however, it significantly decreased soil pHKCl values within sites with all crops in the rotation compared to surface application. At the same time, deep application of mineral fertilizer significantly stimulated dehydrogenase activity in the soil under the winter wheat crops and acid phosphatase activity in the soil under all rotation crops. The higher level of mineral fertilization contributed to reduction of soil pHKCl under winter wheat and maize, and promoted an increase in the soil P content. Additionally, significant increases of dehydrogenases and urease activity in the soil under winter wheat and maize crops, alkaline phosphatase activity in the soil under all the studied crops, and acid phosphatase activity in the soil under the soybean crops were found, compared to mineral fertilizer in the amount of 85 kg NPKS∙ha−1. The results of the present study have demonstrated a positive effect of subsurface application of compound mineral fertilizer on the soil biochemical parameters in reduced tillage. This may be a recommendation for the subsurface use of multicomponent mineral fertilizers in sustainable agriculture. However, a full objective characterization of the soil environment processes induced by in-depth application of mineral fertilizer in reduced tillage requires long-term monitoring.
Allonursing in Wild and Farm Animals: Biological and Physiological Foundations and Explanatory Hypotheses
Authors: Mota-Rojas Daniel , Marcet-Rius Míriam , Freitas-de-Melo Aline , Muns Ramon , Mora-Medina Patricia , Domínguez-Oliva Adriana , Orihuela Agustín
Published: November 2021

The dams of gregarious animals must develop a close bond with their newborns to provide them with maternal care, including protection against predators, immunological transference, and nutrition. Even though lactation demands high energy expenditures, behaviors known as allonursing (the nursing of non-descendant infants) and allosuckling (suckling from any female other than the mother) have been reported in various species of wild or domestic, and terrestrial or aquatic animals. These behaviors seem to be elements of a multifactorial strategy, since reports suggest that they depend on the following: species, living conditions, social stability, and kinship relations, among other group factors. Despite their potential benefits, allonursing and allosuckling can place the health and welfare of both non-filial dams and alien offspring at risk, as it augments the probability of pathogen transmission. This review aims to analyze the biological and physiological foundations and bioenergetic costs of these behaviors, analyzing the individual and collective advantages and disadvantages for the dams’ own offspring(s) and alien neonate(s). We also include information on the animal species in which these behaviors occur and their implications on animal welfare.
Effects of Wash Protocol and Contamination Level on Concentrations of Cortisol and Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in Swine Hair
Authors: Pollock Darian S. , Janz David M. , Moya Diego , Seddon Yolande M.
Published: November 2021

The effect of washing procedure and contamination level on the concentrations of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in swine hair was explored over two studies. Hair shaved from finisher pigs (n = 8) and sows (n = 8, cortisol study 1 only) was split into two treatments (two hair samples/pig) to receive either three isopropanol or methanol washes, and two paired subsamples of hair were contaminated with feces and urine, mildly or severely. Samples were further subdivided and received one, three, or five methanol washes. Hormone concentrations were quantified from the hair and wash solvent, and the ratio of hormones in the solvent to that in the hair calculated. When grouping sow and grower hair together for analysis, hair cortisol concentrations were 13% greater after three isopropanol washes compared to methanol (22.84 ± 3.12 vs. 19.77 ± 2.64 pg/mg, respectively). When analyzing sow and grower hair separately, sow hair cortisol concentrations were 20% higher following three isopropanol washes compared to methanol washes (22.06 ± 5.21 vs. 27.72 ± 5.65 pg/mg), with no differences in grower pig hair concentrations. The solvent cortisol concentrations did not differ with wash solvent. No differences were seen for DHEA. Contamination level did not influence hormone concentrations. Hair cortisol concentrations were 24% higher after one wash compared to five washes (11.98 ± 1.47 vs. 9.05 ± 0.92 pg/mg), whereas the solvent cortisol concentrations were 80% and 84% higher after one wash compared to three and five washes, respectively (21.09 ± 4.04 vs. 4.21 ± 1.62 vs. 3.36 ± 1.32 pg/mg). The solvent–hair cortisol ratio was 65% and 73% higher following one wash compared to three and five washes (1.36 ± 0.80 vs. 0.47 ± 0.12 vs. 0.37 ± 0.14). Hair DHEA concentrations were 39% higher after one wash compared to five washes (42.39 ± 6.87 vs. 26.02 ± 5.69 pg/mg). The solvent DHEA concentrations, and the solvent–hair ratio for DHEA were 94% and 98% and 92% and 98% higher going from one wash to three and five washes, respectively (solvent: 5.07 ± 0.26 vs. 0.28 ± 0.12 vs. 0.12 ± 0.09 pg/mg and solvent–hair ratio: 0.13 ± 0.006 vs. 0.010 ± 0.004 vs. 0.003 ± 0.002). Following three methanol washes, the non-contaminated hair had 46% and 48% higher hair (17.47 ± 1.12 vs. 9.35 ± 0.80 vs. 9.05 ± 1.06 pg/mg) and a 76% and 72% higher solvent (16.31 ± 8.07 vs. 3.92 ± 0.50 vs. 4.50 ± 2.31 pg/mg) cortisol concentration compared to mild and severely contaminated hair, respectively. Wash solvent influences cortisol concentrations in swine hair, but not DHEA. Contaminated swine hair should be avoided in analyses when possible.