bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic Analyses of Metaplastic or Sarcomatoid Carcinomas From Different Organs Revealed Frequent Mutations in KMT2D
Authors: Zheng Biqiang , Song Zhijian , Chen Yong , Yan Wangjun
Published: July 2021

Background: Metaplastic or sarcomatoid carcinomas (MSCs) are rare epithelial malignancies with heterologous histological differentiation that can occur in different organs. The objective of the current study was to identify novel somatically mutated genes in MSCs from different organs.

Methods: Whole-exome sequencing was performed in 16 paired MSCs originating from the breast (n = 10), esophagus (n = 3), lung (n = 2), and kidney (n = 1). In addition, we collected data on KMT2D mutations from eight independent cohorts (n = 195) diagnosed with MSCs derived from the breast (n = 83), liver (n = 8), esophagus (n = 15), lung (n = 10), and uterus or ovary (n = 79). The expression of KMT2D and its clinical significance were evaluated in our cohort.

Results: The most frequently mutated genes were TP53 (13/16, 81%) and KMT2D (5/16,31%). We identified seven somatic KMT2D mutations in the exploratory cohort (n = 16 tumors), including three nonsense mutations, two frameshift indels, one missense mutation, and one splice site mutation. Interestingly, two patients showed double hits on KMT2D with nonsense mutations and frameshift indels. In the eight validation cohorts (n = 195), the average mutation rates for TP53 and KMT2D were 78% (152/195) and 13% (25/195), respectively. Two or more hits on KMT2D were also present in three validation cohorts. Furthermore, KMT2D mutations were associated with low expression of KMT2D, large tumor size and unfavorable prognosis.

Conclusions: These findings provide clues for understanding the genetic basis of MSCs originating from different organs and implicate KMT2D alteration as a frequent pathogenic mutation, allowing provision of appropriate treatment for this rare malignant disease in the future.
Cerebral Hemodynamic Correlates of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Consciousness Restoration: An Open-Label Pilot Study
Authors: Yu Yutian , Yang Yi , Gan Shuoqiu , Guo Shengnan , Fang Jiliang , Wang Shouyan , Tang Chunzhi , Bai Lijun , He Jianghong , Rong Peijing
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to preliminarily illustrate the cerebral hemodynamic correlates of transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation (taVNS) in consciousness restoration. Arterial spin labeling (ASL) was adopted with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure cerebral blood flow (CBF) changes before and after taVNS in 10 qualified patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC). Before taVNS, five patients responded to auditory stimuli (RtAS), and five did not respond to auditory stimuli (nRtAS). The RtAS DOC patients obtained favorable prognoses after the 4-week taVNS treatment, whereas the nRtAS ones did not. Simultaneously, taVNS increased CBF of multiple brain regions in the RtAS DOC patients, but hardly in the nRtAS ones. In conclusion, the preserved auditory function might be the prior key factor of the taVNS responders in DOC patients, and taVNS might alleviate RtAS DOC by activating the salience network, the limbic system, and the interoceptive system.
Evaluation of Multilevel Surgeries in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy Based on Surface Electromyography
Authors: Li Sujiao , Luo Xueqin , Zhang Song , Tang Yuanmin , Sun Jiming , Meng Qingyun , Yu Hongliu , Sun Chengyan
Published: July 2021

The root mean square (RMS) of the surface electromyography (sEMG) signal can respond to neuromuscular function, which displays a positive correlation with muscle force and muscle tension under positive and passive conditions, respectively. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in muscle force and tension after multilevel surgical treatments, functional selective posterior rhizotomy (FSPR) and tibial anterior muscle transfer surgery, and evaluate their clinical effect in children with spastic cerebral palsy (SCP) during walking. Children with diplegia (n = 13) and hemiplegia (n = 3) with ages from 4 to 18 years participated in this study. They were requested to walk barefoot at a self-selected speed on a 15-m-long lane. The patient's joints' range of motion (ROM) and sEMG signal of six major muscles were assessed before and after the multilevel surgeries. The gait cycle was divided into seven phases, and muscle activation state can be divided into positive and passive conditions during gait cycle. For each phase, the RMS of the sEMG signal amplitude was calculated and also normalized by a linear envelope (10-ms running RMS window). The muscle tension of the gastrocnemius decreased significantly during the loading response, initial swing, and terminal swing (p < 0.05), which helped the knee joint to get the maximum extension when the heel is on the ground and made the heel land smoothly. The muscle force of the gastrocnemius increased significantly (p < 0.05) during the mid-stance, terminal stance, and pre-swing, which could generate the driving force for the human body to move forward. The muscle tension of the biceps femoris and semitendinosus decreased significantly (p < 0.05) during the terminal stance, pre-swing, and initial swing. The decreased muscle tension could relieve the burden of the knee flexion when the knee joint was passively flexed. At the terminal swing, the muscle force of the tibial anterior increased significantly (p < 0.05), which could improve the ankle dorsiflexion ability and prevent foot drop and push forward. Thus, the neuromuscular function of cerebral palsy during walking can be evaluated by the muscle activation state and the RMS of the sEMG signal, which showed that multilevel surgical treatments are feasible and effective to treat SCP.
Exogenous Ketone Salt Supplementation and Whole-Body Cooling Do Not Improve Short-Term Physical Performance
Authors: Clark Daniel , Munten Stephanie , Herzig Karl-Heinz , Gagnon Dominique D.
Published: July 2021

Exogenous ketone supplementation and whole-body cooling (WBC) have shown to independently influence exercise metabolism. Whether readily available ketone salts, with and without WBC, would provide similar metabolic benefits during steady-state aerobic and time-trial performances was investigated. Nine active males (VO2peak: 56.3 ± 2.2 mL·kg−1·min−1) completed three single-blind exercise sessions preceded by: (1) ingestion of placebo (CON), (2) ketone supplementation (0.3 g·kg−1 β-OHB) (KET), and (3) ketone supplementation with WBC (KETCO). Participants cycled in steady-state (SS, 60% Wmax) condition for 30-min, immediately followed by a 15-min time trial (TT). Skin and core temperature, cardio-metabolic, and respiratory measures were collected continuously, whereas venous blood samples were collected before and after supplementation, after SS and TT. Venous β-OHB was elevated, while blood glucose was lower, with supplementation vs. CON (p < 0.05). TT power output was not different between conditions (p = 0.112, CON: 190 ± 43.5 W, KET: 185 ± 40.4 W, KETCO: 211 ± 50.7 W). RER was higher during KETCO (0.97 ± 0.09) compared to both CON (0.88 ± 0.04, p = 0.012) and KET (0.88 ± 0.05, p = 0.014). Ketone salt supplementation and WBC prior to short-term exercise sufficiently increase blood β-OHB concentrations, but do not benefit metabolic shifts in fuel utilization or improve time trial performance.
The Current Treatment Paradigm for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Barriers to Therapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Principe Daniel R. , Underwood Patrick W. , Korc Murray , Trevino Jose G. , Munshi Hidayatullah G. , Rana Ajay
Published: July 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a dismal prognosis, with a median survival time of 10-12 months. Clinically, these poor outcomes are attributed to several factors, including late stage at the time of diagnosis impeding resectability, as well as multi-drug resistance. Despite the high prevalence of drug-resistant phenotypes, nearly all patients are offered chemotherapy leading to modest improvements in postoperative survival. However, chemotherapy is all too often associated with toxicity, and many patients elect for palliative care. In cases of inoperable disease, cytotoxic therapies are less efficacious but still carry the same risk of serious adverse effects, and clinical outcomes remain particularly poor. Here we discuss the current state of pancreatic cancer therapy, both surgical and medical, and emerging factors limiting the efficacy of both. Combined, this review highlights an unmet clinical need to improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the poor therapeutic responses seen in patients with PDAC, in hopes of increasing drug efficacy, extending patient survival, and improving quality of life.
STAT5a Confers Doxorubicin Resistance to Breast Cancer by Regulating ABCB1
Authors: Li Zhaoqing , Chen Cong , Chen Lini , Hu Dengdi , Yang Xiqian , Zhuo Wenying , Chen Yongxia , Yang Jingjing , Zhou Yulu , Mao Misha , Zhang Xun , Xu Ling , Ju Siwei , Shen Jun , Wang Qinchuan , Dong Minjun , Xie Shuduo , Wei Qun , Jia Yunlu , Zhou Jichun , Wang Linbo
Published: July 2021

Chemoresistance is a daunting challenge to the prognosis of patients with breast cancer. Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 5a plays vital roles in the development of various cancers, but its function in breast cancer is controversial, and its role in chemoresistance in breast cancer remains unexplored. Here we identified STAT5a as a chemoresistance inducer that regulates the expression of ABCB1 in breast cancer and can be targeted by pimozide, an FDA-approved psychotropic drug. First, we found that STAT5a and ABCB1 were expressed at higher levels in doxorubicin-resistant cell lines and chemoresistant patients, and their expression was positively correlated. Then, we confirmed the essential roles of STAT5a and ABCB1 in doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer cells and the regulation of ABCB1 transcription by STAT5a. Subsequently, the efficacy of pimozide in inhibiting STAT5a and sensitizing doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer cells was tested. Finally, we verified the role of STAT5a in doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer and the efficacy of pimozide in reversing this resistance in vivo. Our study demonstrated the vital role of STAT5a in doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer. Targeting STAT5a might be a promising strategy for treating doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer. Moreover, repurposing pimozide for doxorubicin resensitization is attractive due to the safety profile of pimozide.
METTL3 Promotes the Resistance of Glioma to Temozolomide via Increasing MGMT and ANPG in a m6A Dependent Manner
Authors: Shi Jia , Chen Gang , Dong Xuchen , Li Haoran , Li Suwen , Cheng Shan , Li Yongdong , Wang Liping , Yuan Jiaqi , Qian Zhiyuan , Dong Jun
Published: July 2021

Acquired chemoresistance is a major limiting factor in the clinical treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). However, the mechanism by which GBM acquires therapeutic resistance remains unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate whether METTL3-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification contributes to the temozolomide (TMZ) resistance in GBM. We demonstrated that METTL3 METTL3-mediated m6A modification were significantly elevated in TMZ-resistant GBM cells. Functionally, METTL3 overexpression impaired the TMZ-sensitivity of GBM cells. In contrast, METTL3 silencing or DAA-mediated total methylation inhibition improved the sensitivity of TMZ-resistant GBM cells to TMZ in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that two critical DNA repair genes (MGMT and APNG) were m6A-modified by METTL3, whereas inhibited by METTL3 silencing or DAA-mediated total methylation inhibition, which is crucial for METTL3-improved TMZ resistance in GBM cells. Collectively, METTL3 acts as a critical promoter of TMZ resistance in glioma and extends the current understanding of m6A related signaling, thereby providing new insights into the field of glioma treatment.
Potential Mechanisms of Action of Chinese Patent Medicines for COVID-19: A Review
Authors: Yang Zhi-Hua , Wang Bin , Ma Qian , Wang Lin , Lin Ya-Xin , Yan Hai-Feng , Fan Zi-Xuan , Chen Hao-Jia , Ge Zhao , Zhu Feng , Wang Hui-Jie , Zhang Bao-Nan , Sun Hai-Dong , Feng Li-Min
Published: July 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emergent infectious pneumonia caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is highly contagious and pathogenic. COVID-19 has rapidly swept across the world since it was first discovered in December 2019 and has drawn significant attention worldwide. During the early stages of the outbreak in China, traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) were involved in the whole treatment process. As an indispensable part of TCM, Chinese patent medicines (CPMs) played an irreplaceable role in the prevention and treatment of this epidemic. Their use has achieved remarkable therapeutic efficacy during the period of medical observation and clinical treatment of mild, moderate, severe, and critical cases and during convalescence. In order to better propagate and make full use of the benefits of TCM in the treatment of COVID-19, this review will summarize the potential target of SARS-CoV-2 as well as the theoretical basis and clinical efficacy of recommended 22 CPMs by the National Health Commission and the Administration of TCM and local provinces or cities in the treatment of COVID-19. Additionally, the study will further analyze the drug composition, potential active ingredients, potential targets, regulated signaling pathways, and possible mechanisms for COVID-19 through anti-inflammatory and immunoregulation, antiviral, improve lung injury, antipyretic and organ protection to provide meaningful information about the clinical application of CPMs.
Repeated Use of Prescription Drugs in Pediatrics: Comprehensive Overview Based on German Claims Data
Authors: Scholle Oliver , Neubert Antje , Riedel Oliver , Toni Irmgard , Haug Ulrike
Published: July 2021

Background: Investigating drug utilization in large and unselected samples of children and adolescents is an important component of public health monitoring. Most existing studies in this field focused on any drug use (i.e., ≥1 prescription of a certain drug) although chronic drug use may be more relevant. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of prevalence and types of prescription drugs used repeatedly in children and adolescents in Germany in 2016.

Methods: We used the German Pharmacoepidemiological Research Database (GePaRD)—a claims database covering ∼20% of the German population. We included children and adolescents aged 0–17 years and assessed repeated use of prescription drugs (≥3 prescriptions in 2016) on two levels: therapeutic subgroups (ATC 2nd level) and chemical substances (ATC 5th level). Analyses were stratified by sex and age groups (<2, 2–5, 6–12, and 13–17 years).

Results: Overall, 2.5 million children and adolescents were included. In the age groups below 13 years, the prevalence rates of repeated use of prescription drugs (ATC 2nd level) were higher in boys than in girls (113–152 vs. 83–130 per 1,000 person-years), whereas in the age group 13–17 years, they were twice as high in girls than in boys (236 vs. 118 per 1,000 person-years). In boys and girls aged below six years, systemic antibiotics, topical ocular antibiotics, and drugs for constipation were among the most common drugs used repeatedly. For higher ages, methylphenidate, levothyroxine, and combined hormonal contraceptives, were among the most common drugs used repeatedly.

Conclusions: Overall, about one in ten children in Germany repeatedly used prescription drugs. This proportion as well as the type of drugs used repeatedly markedly varied by sex and age. For certain drugs, our findings raise concerns regarding appropriateness of prescribing that should be addressed in future studies.
A Broadband High-Efficiency Hybrid Continuous Inverse Power Amplifier Based on Extended Admittance Space
Authors: Ni Chun , Wang Hui , Liu Jing , Chen Mingsheng , Zhang Zhongxiang , Zhang Liang , Zhu Jiabing , Wu Xianliang
Published: July 2021

A novel hybrid continuous inverse power amplifier (PA) that is constituted by a continuum of PA modes from the continuous inverse class-F to the continuous inverse class-B/J is proposed, and a detailed mathematical analysis is presented. The fundamental and second harmonic admittance spaces of the hybrid PA proposed in this article are analyzed mathematically. By introducing the phase shift parameter into the current waveform formula of the hybrid continuous inverse PA, the design space of the fundamental and second harmonic admittance is expanded, further increasing the operating bandwidth. The efficiency of the amplifier under different parameter conditions is calculated. In order to verify this method, a broadband high-efficiency PA is designed and fabricated. The drain voltage and current waveforms of the amplifier are extracted for analysis. The experimental measured results show a 60.7–71.5% drain efficiency across the frequency band of 0.5–2.5 GHz (133% bandwidth), and the designed PA can obtain an 11.8–13.9 dB gain in the interesting frequency range. The measured results are confirmed to be in good agreement with theory and simulations.
A Systematic Review of the Association Between Muscular Fitness and Telomere Length Across the Adult Lifespan
Authors: Marques Adilson , Peralta Miguel , Marconcin Priscila , Henriques-Neto Duarte , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio , Ferrari Gerson , Martins João , Sarmento Hugo , Ihle Andreas
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to systematically review the association between telomere length (TL) and muscular fitness. In October 2020, an articles search was applied to PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eligibility criteria included: cross-sectional, prospective, and experimental study design; outcomes included TL; results expressed the relationship between muscular fitness and TL; studies published in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. Nine studies were included in the review. Results from the four prospective studies are mixed. In one study, the changes in TL were associated with grip strength. Another study concluded that longer mid-life TL was associated with increased grip strength later in life. However, in the other two studies, the association between TL and sarcopenia was not strong. Nevertheless, longer TL was associated with a slower decline in grip strength in older people. From the four cross-sectional studies, three indicated that TL was associated with muscular fitness. On the other hand, in a study with powerlifters, TL remained within the range of values found in subjects with no history of regular strength training, supporting the notion that muscular fitness was not associated with TL. The cross-sectional and prospective studies showed that the relationship between TL and muscular fitness is not conclusive. It seems that there is a positive association between TL and muscular fitness in middle-aged and older adults. However, among younger adults, this relationship was not observed.
Deciphering the Taxonomic Delimitation of Ottelia acuminata (Hydrocharitaceae) Using Complete Plastomes as Super-Barcodes
Authors: Ji Yunheng , Yang Jin , Landis Jacob B. , Wang Shuying , Yang Zhenyan , Zhang Yonghong
Published: July 2021

Accurate species delimitation and identification, which is a challenging task in traditional morphology-based taxonomy, is crucial to species conservation. Ottelia acuminata (Hydrocharitaceae) is a severely threatened submerged macrophyte endemic to southwestern China. The taxonomy of O. acuminata, which has long been in dispute, remains unresolved, impeding effective conservation and management practices. Here, we aim to address the long-standing issues concerning species boundary and intraspecific subdivision of O. acuminata using complete plastome sequences as super-barcodes. The taxonomic delimitation of O. acuminata was explored using phylogenetic inference and two independent sequence-based species delimitation schemes: automatic barcode gap discovery (ABGD) and multi-rate Poisson tree processes (mPTP). The reciprocally reinforcing results support the reduction of the closely related congeneric species, O. balansae and O. guanyangensis, as two conspecific varieties of O. acuminata. Within the newly defined O. acuminata, accurate varietal identification can be achieved using plastome super-barcodes. These findings will help inform future decisions regarding conservation, management and restoration of O. acuminata. This case study suggests that the use of plastome super-barcodes can provide a solution for species delimitation and identification in taxonomically difficult plant taxa, thus providing great potential to lessen the challenges of inventorying biodiversity, as well as biologically monitoring and assessing threatened species.
Systemic Optimization of Legume Nodulation: A Shoot-Derived Regulator, miR2111
Authors: Okuma Nao , Kawaguchi Masayoshi
Published: July 2021

Long-distance signaling between the shoot and roots of land plants plays a crucial role in ensuring their growth and development in a fluctuating environment, such as with soil nutrient deficiencies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are considered to contribute to such environmental adaptation via long-distance signaling since several miRNAs are transported between the shoot and roots in response to various soil nutrient changes. Leguminous plants adopt a shoot-mediated long-distance signaling system to maintain their mutualism with symbiotic nitrogen-fixing rhizobia by optimizing the number of symbiotic organs and root nodules. Recently, the involvement and importance of shoot-derived miR2111 in regulating nodule numbers have become evident. Shoot-derived miR2111 can systemically enhance rhizobial infection, and its accumulation is quickly suppressed in response to rhizobial inoculation and high-concentration nitrate application. In this mini-review, we briefly summarize the recent progress on the systemic optimization of nodulation in response to external environments, with a focus on systemic regulation via miR2111.
Identification, Characterization, and Expression Profile Analysis of the mTERF Gene Family and Its Role in the Response to Abiotic Stress in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Li Tingting , Pan Wenqiu , Yuan Yiyuan , Liu Ying , Li Yihan , Wu Xiaoyu , Wang Fei , Cui Licao
Published: July 2021

Plant mitochondrial transcription termination factor (mTERF) family regulates organellar gene expression (OGE) and is functionally characterized in diverse species. However, limited data are available about its functions in the agriculturally important cereal barley (Hordeum vulgareL.). In this study, we identified 60mTERFs in the barley genome (HvmTERFs) through a comprehensive search against the most updated barley reference genome, Morex V2. Then, phylogenetic analysis categorized these genes into nine subfamilies, with approximately half of theHvmTERFs belonging to subfamily IX. Members within the same subfamily generally possessed conserved motif composition and exon-intron structure. Both segmental and tandem duplication contributed to the expansion ofHvmTERFs, and the duplicated gene pairs were subjected to strong purifying selection. Expression analysis suggested that manyHvmTERFs may play important roles in barley development (e.g., seedlings, leaves, and developing inflorescences) and abiotic stresses (e.g., cold, salt, and metal ion), andHvmTERF21andHvmTERF23were significant induced by various abiotic stresses and/or phytohormone treatment. Finally, the nucleotide diversity was decreased by only 4.5% forHvmTERFs during the process of barley domestication. Collectively, this is the first report to characterizeHvmTERFs, which will not only provide important insights into further evolutionary studies but also contribute to a better understanding of the potential functions ofHvmTERFs and ultimately will be useful in future gene functional studies.
Intrinsic Rewards and Employee's Performance With the Mediating Mechanism of Employee's Motivation
Authors: Manzoor Faiza , Wei Longbao , Asif Muhammad
Published: July 2021

The prime goal of this study is to analyze the impact of intrinsic rewards on the performance of an employee. It also focuses on the role of motivation of the employee as an intervening factor. To achieve this objective, data have been collected through the questionnaire method from small and medium enterprises of Pakistan. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed to the target population, and 300 were received. To test the hypotheses, the confirmatory factor analysis and the structural equation modeling have been used. The main results of the study have shown a positive and significant impact of intrinsic rewards on the performance of the employee. Specifically, the study reveals that the motivation of an employee significantly mediates the association between intrinsic rewards and the performance of the employee. In the light of the findings, implications are outlined.
CEO Empowering Leadership and Corporate Entrepreneurship: The Roles of TMT Information Elaboration and Environmental Dynamism
Authors: Li Zhengfei , Chen Huangen , Ma Qiuying , Li Haibo
Published: July 2021

In this paper we investigate the relationship between chief executive officer (CEO) empowering leadership and corporate entrepreneurship. In addition, the mediating role of information elaboration in top management teams (TMTs) and the moderating role of environmental dynamism are examined. Drawing on the information exchange/sharing perspective, we hypothesize that CEO empowering leadership has a positive effect on corporate entrepreneurship, and TMT information elaboration mediates the relationship above. Furthermore, we find that environmental dynamism positively moderates the relationship between empowering leadership and information elaboration, and negatively moderates the relationship between information elaboration and corporate entrepreneurship. Data from a sample of Chinese firms provide empirical evidence in support of these hypotheses.
Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Fear of Heights: Clinicians’ Attitudes Become More Positive After Trying VRET
Authors: Rimer Elise , Husby Lars Vågsholm , Solem Stian
Published: July 2021

Background

Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) has the potential to solve logistic challenges when treating specific phobias. However, VRET has yet to see a large-scale implementation in clinical settings despite positive findings in treatment trials. This may partly be due to attitudes and lack of experience among clinicians, but also because of expensive and stationary VR solutions.

Objective

This study tested whether modern, wireless, commercially available VR equipment with controller-free hand tracking could induce and reduce discomfort using scenarios designed for fear of heights. Also, the study tested if clinicians’ attitudes toward using VR in therapy changed after trying it themselves.

Method

Attitudes to using VR in therapy and discomfort ratings were assessed for 74 clinicians before and after completing two VR scenarios. In addition, 54 non-clinicians completed the same scenarios. Participants were not diagnosed with acrophobia.

Results

The VR scenarios induced discomfort comparable to participants’ reported fear of heights in real life. Repeated training reduced discomfort. Positive attitudes toward use of VR in therapy was predicted by previous experience with VR, as well as positive attitudes toward novel technology and exposure therapy. Clinicians’ attitudes became more favorable after trying VRET themselves. Clinicians reported a range of possible advantages and disadvantages of using VR in therapy.

Conclusion

VRET for fear of heights was able to induce and reduce discomfort in clinicians and non-clinicians, and clinicians’ attitudes toward using VRET become more positive after trying VRET for themselves. The latest generation of VR solutions has potential to improve clinical availability and treatment options. Future research should explore how VRET can be implemented in clinical settings.
Examining the Antecedent Role of Movement Proficiency in Child Development: Study Protocol
Authors: Capio Catherine M. , Lee Kerry , Jones Rachel A. , Masters Rich S. W.
Published: July 2021

Background:Decades of research, largely from associational studies, show that the relationships of movement proficiency with the cognitive and social aspects of development are particularly strong in early childhood. Children who move proficiently tend to have better cognitive skills and social behaviors. However, the mechanisms that underpin these relationships remain unclear and research that explores causation is necessary. This study will explore the antecedent role of movement proficiency in the cognitive and social domains of child development, by examining whether a targeted movement skills training program facilitates improvements in cognitive and social skills.

Methods:A group-randomized controlled trial will be conducted, implementing a fundamental movement skills training program in Hong Kong kindergartens. Participants will consist of children aged 3–5 years (N= 158) who will be randomly allocated by class to either a training or active control condition. The training program (10 weeks × 2 bouts) will be informed by an error-reduced approach to skills learning, which will involve careful design and manipulation of equipment and training environment to minimize practice errors. The active control condition will consist of typical movement activities implemented in the kindergartens in the context of the local curriculum guide. Outcomes will be measured using standardized tests of gross motor skills proficiency, executive functioning, and social skills. Measurements will occur at baseline, mid-training, post-training, and follow-up. Latent variable longitudinal modeling will be used to analyze changes in the outcomes, with covariates that include sex, body composition, fine motor skills, and physical activity.

Expected Results:The findings will subsequently be reported consistent with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement. Contributions to knowledge and understanding of child development are expected, through evidence of causal mechanisms surrounding the relationship of motor with cognitive and social development. The findings will also inform policy and practice related to early childhood development and education.
The Stroop Task Influences Product Evaluations
Authors: Damen Tom G. E.
Published: July 2021

Cognitive conflict is considered to represent a psychologically negative signal. Indeed, a recent publication showed that cognitive conflict emerging from the Stroop task influences evaluations for neutral shapes that had become associated with conflict and non-conflict, respectively. Building on these findings, the present research investigates the degree to which Stroop conflict influences evaluations of actual products. In an experimental study, participants performed a Stroop task in which they responded to conflict trials (e.g., the word red presented in a blue font) as well as non-conflict trials (e.g., the word red presented in a red font). Participants were also presented with two pictures featuring bottled water brands: One brand was consistently presented after non-conflict trials; the other brand was consistently presented after conflict trials. When participants evaluated the products, the results showed they rated the product associated with Stroop conflict less favorably than the product associated with non-conflict; however, this effect only emerged when participants were thirsty. When participants were not thirsty, no differences emerged. The present findings add to the literature on cognitive conflict and negativity, suggesting that Stroop conflict can influence product evaluations when those products are goal relevant.
Evaluating the Immediate Response of Country-Wide Health Systems to the Covid-19 Pandemic: Applying the Gray Incidence Analysis Model
Authors: Qazi Tehmina Fiaz , Shaukat Muhammad Zeeshan , Niazi Abdul Aziz Khan , Basit Abdul
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the study is to evaluate county-wide health systems using the data set of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The overall design of study comprises a literature review, secondary data, and a mathematical analysis. It is a cross-sectional quantitative study following a deductive approach. It uses the data of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic taken from the website of Worldometer as of April 8, 2020. The study uses a gray incidence analysis model (commonly known as Gray Relational Analysis, i.e., GRA) as its research methodology. On the basis of the results of GRA, a classification has been made under a predetermined scheme of ensigns: much better, better, somewhat better, fair, poor, somewhat worse, and worse health systems. There are a total 211 countries that have been divided into the seven aforementioned categories. Findings of the study show that Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) countries fall predominantly under the much better ensign, whereas Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Schengen Area (SA), and/or European Union (EU) countries fall under the worse ensign. Pakistan falls under the ensign of poor. It is an original attempt to evaluate the response of health systems based on real data using a scientific methodology. The study provides valuable information about the health systems of the countries for forming an informed opinion about the health systems herein. The study provides useful new information for stakeholders and a new framework for future research.
Biological Age Prediction From Wearable Device Movement Data Identifies Nutritional and Pharmacological Interventions for Healthy Aging
Authors: McIntyre Rebecca L. , Rahman Mizanur , Vanapalli Siva A. , Houtkooper Riekelt H. , Janssens Georges E.
Published: July 2021

Intervening in aging processes is hypothesized to extend healthy years of life and treat age-related disease, thereby providing great benefit to society. However, the ability to measure the biological aging process in individuals, which is necessary to test for efficacy of these interventions, remains largely inaccessible to the general public. Here we used NHANES physical activity accelerometer data from a wearable device and machine-learning algorithms to derive biological age predictions for individuals based on their movement patterns. We found that accelerated biological aging from our “MoveAge” predictor is associated with higher all-cause mortality. We further searched for nutritional or pharmacological compounds that associate with decelerated aging according to our model. A number of nutritional components peak in their association to decelerated aging later in life, including fiber, magnesium, and vitamin E. We additionally identified one FDA-approved drug associated with decelerated biological aging: the alpha-blocker doxazosin. We show that doxazosin extends healthspan and lifespan in C. elegans. Our work demonstrates how a biological aging score based on relative mobility can be accessible to the wider public and can potentially be used to identify and determine efficacy of geroprotective interventions.
Robot-Guided Evacuation as a Paradigm for Human-Robot Interaction Research
Authors: Wagner Alan R.
Published: July 2021

This paper conceptualizes the problem of emergency evacuation as a paradigm for investigating human-robot interaction. We argue that emergency evacuation offers unique and important perspectives on human-robot interaction while also demanding close attention to the ethical ramifications of the technologies developed. We present a series of approaches for developing emergency evacuation robots and detail several essential design considerations. This paper concludes with a discussion of the ethical implications of emergency evacuation robots and a roadmap for their development, implementation, and evaluation.
Cloud Detection Over Sunglint Regions With Observations From the Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera
Authors: Zhou Yaping , Yang Yuekui , Zhai Peng-Wang , Gao Meng
Published: July 2021

With the ability to observe the entire sunlit side of the Earth, EPIC data have become an important resource for studying cloud daily variability. Inaccurate cloud masking is a great source of uncertainty. One main region that is prone to error in cloud masking is the sunglint area over ocean surfaces. Cloud detection over these regions is challenging for the EPIC instrument because of its limited spectral channels. Clear sky ocean surface reflectance from visible channels over sunglint is much larger than that over the non-glint areas and can exceed reflectance from thin clouds. This paper presents an improved EPIC ocean cloud masking algorithm (Version 3). Over sunglint regions (glint angle ≤25°), the algorithm utilizes EPIC’s oxygen (O2) A-band ratio (764/780 nm) in addition to the 780 nm reflectance observations in masking tests. Outside the sunglint regions, a dynamic reflectance threshold for the Rayleigh corrected 780 nm reflectance is applied. The thresholds are derived as a function of glint angle. When compared with co-located data from the geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) and the low Earth orbit (LEO) observations, the consistency of the new ocean cloud mask algorithm has increased by 4∼10% and 4∼6% in the glint center and granule edges respectively. The false positive rate is reduced by 10∼17%. Overall global ocean cloud detection consistency increases by 2%. This algorithm, along with other improvements to the EPIC cloud masks, has been implemented in the EPIC cloud products Version 3. This algorithm will improve the cloud daily variability analysis by removing the artificial peak at local noon time in the glint center latitudes and reducing biases in the early morning and late afternoon cloud fraction over ocean surfaces.
Development of Cultural and Environmental Awareness Through Sámi Outdoor Life at Sámi/Indigenous Festivals
Authors: Skogvang Bente Ovedie
Published: July 2021

The indigenous people Sámi are an ethnic minority living in Finland, Norway, Russia, and Sweden. Throughout history, Sámis have been living close to nature. Working with reindeer husbandry, fishing-farming, hunting, herding, and harvesting for food supplies, has traditionally been an integral part of their lives. Currently, only 2,500 of the ~65,000 Sámis in Norway are operating reindeer husbandry (2019). Most Sámis today work in mainstream jobs, and the fishing-farming culture gradually become more like the mainstream societies where Sámis live. Fieldwork with participant observation and semi-structured interviews carried out at Riddu Riđđu Festivala in the period 2009–2018. In addition, the governing bodies of seven other Sámi festivals have been interviewed. All together 46 in-depth interviews and participant observations conducted, in addition to document analysis of the festivals. The aim was to study how physical and outdoor activities included in the festivals create indigenous people's identities and cultural understanding and how the activities at the festivals might develop climate and environmental awareness. Indigenous festivals and their governing bodies offer many different forms of physical and cultural activities from Sámis and different indigenous peoples to the youth and children taking part. Further, the study shows that important aims for the organizers are to spread the knowledge about Sámis (i.e., local coastal Sámis and regional reindeer/Inland Sámis) and other indigenous peoples, and making environment-friendly festivals. They are trying to educate the children and youth in the cultural practices of their forefathers and foremothers. The manifold of activities offered at the festivals seem to create sustainable ties between persons, which equip the participants with social and cultural capital in addition to networks across festivals organizations internationally. The participants further express that taking part in the festival activities create symbolic capital, due to that they might express their indigeneity at the festivals both for people living in the region and for a greater audience. According to the participants, the festivals have equipped the participants with cultural awareness, as well as the children and youth taught an appreciation of nature so they can enjoy and respect nature and develop climate and environmental awareness.
Ciencias cognitivas y psicoterapias cognitivas: una alianza problemática
Authors: Vázquez Carmelo
Published: July 2021

En este artículo se exploran las relaciones entre ciencias cognitivas y psicoterapias cognitivas desde la perspectiva de la investigación básica y aplicada en psicoterapia por lo que respecta a los códigos de representación cognitiva, la memoria y los sistemas de representación y la racionalidad y los sesgos positivos. Finalmente se aborda el problema de la efectividad.
Amor y dependencia en las relaciones de pareja
Authors: Villegas Besora Manuel
Published: July 2021

En este artículo se contempla el fenómeno de la dependencia emocional en el contexto de la relación de pareja. Las vicisitudes en la negociación de los parámetros sobre los que se constituye la relación de pareja, simetría y complementariedad, se consideran suficientes para explicar el fenómeno la dependencia emocional, independientemente de otros factores personales, sociales o culturales predisponentes.
“Los capítulos de mi vida tienen nombre de mujer”: un caso de dependencia a las relaciones
Authors: Betoret Jordina
Published: July 2021

La dependencia emocional no es una cuestión exclusiva de género, como demuestra el caso que se describe en este artículo. La necesidad narcisista de ser reconocido por los demás coloca a las personas en situación de depender emocional y afectivamente de las parejas, que son utilizadas a este fin.
A Comparative Analysis of Multi-Epoch Double-Differenced Pseudorange Observation and Other Dual-Satellite Lunar Global Navigation Systems
Authors: Tanaka Toshiki , Ebinuma Takuji , Nakasuka Shinichi , Malki Heidar
Published: July 2021

In this study, dual-satellite lunar global navigation systems that consist of a constellation of two navigation satellites providing geo-spatial positioning on the lunar surface were compared. In our previous work, we proposed a new dual-satellite relative-positioning navigation method called multi-epoch double-differenced pseudorange observation (MDPO). While the mathematical model of the MDPO and its behavior under specific conditions were studied, we did not compare its performance with other dual-satellite relative-positioning navigation systems. In this paper, we performed a comparative analysis between the MDPO and other two dual-satellite navigation methods. Based on the difference in their mathematical models, as well as numerical simulation results, we developed useful insights on the system design of dual-satellite lunar global navigation systems.
The Mechanistic Action of Biosynthesised Silver Nanoparticles and Its Application in Aquaculture and Livestock Industries
Authors: De Silva Catrenar , Nawawi Norazah Mohammad , Abd Karim Murni Marlina , Abd Gani Shafinaz , Masarudin Mas Jaffri , Gunasekaran Baskaran , Ahmad Siti Aqlima
Published: July 2021

Nanotechnology is a rapidly developing field due to the emergence of various resistant pathogens and the failure of commercial methods of treatment. AgNPs have emerged as one of the best nanotechnology metal nanoparticles due to their large surface-to-volume ratio and success and efficiency in combating various pathogens over the years, with the biological method of synthesis being the most effective and environmentally friendly method. The primary mode of action of AgNPs against pathogens are via their cytotoxicity, which is influenced by the size and shape of the nanoparticles. The cytotoxicity of the AgNPs gives rise to various theorized mechanisms of action of AgNPs against pathogens such as activation of reactive oxygen species, attachment to cellular membranes, intracellular damage and inducing the viable but non-culturable state (VBNC) of pathogens. This review will be centred on the various theorized mechanisms of actions and its application in the aquaculture, livestock and poultry industries. The application of AgNPs in aquaculture is focused around water treatment, disease control and aquatic nutrition, and in the livestock application it is focused on livestock and poultry.
Effects of Using Rosemary Residues as a Cereal Substitute in Concentrate on Vitamin E, Antioxidant Activity, Color, Lipid Oxidation, and Fatty Acid Profile of Barbarine Lamb Meat
Authors: Smeti Samir , Yagoubi Yathreb , Srihi Houssemeddine , Lobón Sandra , Bertolín Juan Ramón , Mahouachi Mokhtar , Joy Margalida , Atti Naziha
Published: July 2021

The shortage of some ingredients and, consequently, the continuous increase in the price of feed encourage the search for other alternatives to maintain animal production and enhance its products. In this line, the use of aromatic plant by-products in animal diet has been recently and widely considered, given their richness in bioactive compounds. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the inclusion of rosemary residues (RR) and protein sources on lamb meat quality. The experiment was carried out on 24 male Barbarine lambs (3 months old) with an average body weight (BW) of 17.8 ± 2.6 kg, which were divided into three homogeneous groups according to BW. The diet comprised 600 g of oat hay and 600 g of concentrate. Three types of concentrate were evaluated: commercial concentrate as the control group (C); rosemary residues (RR) plus soybean meal as the RRS group, and RR plus faba bean as the RRF group. After an experimental period of 65 days, lambs were slaughtered. The inclusion of RR in both concentrates increased the α-tocopherol and total polyphenol content in meat and protected meat against discoloration (high red index and chroma after 9 days of storage) but did not affect meat lipid oxidation, which was similar for all groups. The FA profile was affected by the inclusion of RR, with no effect from the source of protein (faba bean or soybean). The inclusion of RR in the concentrate increased the C18:2 n-6, C18:3 n-3, C20:4 n-6, C20:5 n-3, and C22:5 n-3 content (p < 0.05). Consequently, the inclusion of RR also increased the total polyunsaturated FA (p < 0.05) and the ratio of polyunsaturated FA to saturated FA (p < 0.05). The results of this study demonstrate that concentrate based on RR could be useful for lamb meat production by improving the nutritional quality of meat, especially the fatty acid profile. In addition, soybean meal can be replaced by faba bean in lamb concentrate without affecting meat quality.
Role of Infection and Immunity in Bovine Perinatal Mortality: Part 2. Fetomaternal Response to Infection and Novel Diagnostic Perspectives
Authors: Jawor Paulina , Mee John F. , Stefaniak Tadeusz
Published: July 2021

Bovine perinatal mortality due to infection may result either from the direct effects of intrauterine infection and/or the fetal response to such infection, leading to the fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS). Both intrauterine infection and FIRS, which causes multi-organ damage and involution of immune organs, compromise fetal survivability, sometimes fatally. Organ injury associated with FIRS may, in addition to causing fetal mortality, irreversibly compromise extrauterine adaptation of the neonate, a recognized problem in human fetuses. Diagnosis of intrauterine infection and of FIRS requires related, but independent analytical approaches. In addition to detection of pathogens, the immune and inflammatory responses of the bovine fetus may be utilized to diagnose intrauterine infection. This can be done by detection of specific changes in internal organs and the measurement of antibodies and/or elements of the acute phase reaction. Currently our ability to diagnose FIRS in bovine fetuses and neonates is limited to research studies. This review focuses on both the fetomaternal response to infection and diagnostic methods which rely on the response of the fetus to infection and inflammatory changes, as well other methods which may improve diagnosis of intrauterine infection in cases of bovine perinatal mortality.