bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congruent aero-tactile stimuli bias perception of voicing continua
Authors: Goldenberg Dolly , Tiede Mark K. , Bennett Ryan T. , Whalen D. H.
Published: July 2022

Multimodal integration is the formation of a coherent percept from different sensory inputs such as vision, audition, and somatosensation. Most research on multimodal integration in speech perception has focused on audio-visual integration. In recent years, audio-tactile integration has also been investigated, and it has been established that puffs of air applied to the skin and timed with listening tasks shift the perception of voicing by naive listeners. The current study has replicated and extended these findings by testing the effect of air puffs on gradations of voice onset time along a continuum rather than the voiced and voiceless endpoints of the original work. Three continua were tested: bilabial (“pa/ba”), velar (“ka/ga”), and a vowel continuum (“head/hid”) used as a control. The presence of air puffs was found to significantly increase the likelihood of choosing voiceless responses for the two VOT continua but had no effect on choices for the vowel continuum. Analysis of response times revealed that the presence of air puffs lengthened responses for intermediate (ambiguous) stimuli and shortened them for endpoint (non-ambiguous) stimuli. The slowest response times were observed for the intermediate steps for all three continua, but for the bilabial continuum this effect interacted with the presence of air puffs: responses were slower in the presence of air puffs, and faster in their absence. This suggests that during integration auditory and aero-tactile inputs are weighted differently by the perceptual system, with the latter exerting greater influence in those cases where the auditory cues for voicing are ambiguous.
Supplementation of Regular Diet With Medium-Chain Triglycerides for Procognitive Effects: A Narrative Review
Authors: Shcherbakova Ksenia , Schwarz Alexander , Apryatin Sergey , Karpenko Marina , Trofimov Alexander
Published: July 2022

It is now widely accepted that ketosis (a physiological state characterized by elevated plasma ketone body levels) possesses a wide range of neuroprotective effects. There is a growing interest in the use of ketogenic supplements, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), to achieve intermittent ketosis without adhering to a strict ketogenic diet. MCT supplementation is an inexpensive and simple ketogenic intervention, proven to benefit both individuals with normal cognition and those suffering from mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and other cognitive disorders. The commonly accepted paradigm underlying MCT supplementation trials is that the benefits stem from ketogenesis and that MCT supplementation is safe. However, medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) may also exert effects in the brain directly. Moreover, MCFAs, long-chain fatty acids, and glucose participate in mutually intertwined metabolic pathways. Therefore, the metabolic effects must be considered if the desired procognitive effects require administering MCT in doses larger than 1 g/kg. This review summarizes currently available research on the procognitive effects of using MCTs as a supplement to regular feed/diet without concomitant reduction of carbohydrate intake and focuses on the revealed mechanisms linked to particular MCT metabolites (ketone bodies, MCFAs), highlighting open questions and potential considerations.
Effects of Netarsudil-Family Rho Kinase Inhibitors on Human Trabecular Meshwork Cell Contractility and Actin Remodeling Using a Bioengineered ECM Hydrogel
Authors: Bagué Tyler , Singh Ayushi , Ghosh Rajanya , Yoo Hannah , Kelly Curtis , deLong Mitchell A. , Kopczynski Casey C. , Herberg Samuel
Published: July 2022

Interactions between trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and their extracellular matrix (ECM) are critical for normal outflow function in the healthy eye. Multifactorial dysregulation of the TM is the principal cause of elevated intraocular pressure that is strongly associated with glaucomatous vision loss. Key characteristics of the diseased TM are pathologic contraction and actin stress fiber assembly, contributing to overall tissue stiffening. Among first-line glaucoma medications, the Rho-associated kinase inhibitor (ROCKi) netarsudil is known to directly target the stiffened TM to improve outflow function via tissue relaxation involving focal adhesion and actin stress fiber disassembly. Yet, no in vitro studies have explored the effect of netarsudil on human TM (HTM) cell contractility and actin remodeling in a 3D ECM environment. Here, we use our bioengineered HTM cell-encapsulated ECM hydrogel to investigate the efficacy of different netarsudil-family ROCKi compounds on reversing pathologic contraction and actin stress fibers. Netarsudil and all related experimental ROCKi compounds exhibited significant ROCK1/2 inhibitory and focal adhesion disruption activities. Furthermore, all ROCKi compounds displayed potent contraction-reversing effects on HTM hydrogels upon glaucomatous induction in a dose-dependent manner, relatively consistent with their biochemical/cellular inhibitory activities. At their tailored EC50 levels, netarsudil-family ROCKi compounds exhibited distinct effect signatures of reversing pathologic HTM hydrogel contraction and actin stress fibers, independent of the cell strain used. Netarsudil outperformed the experimental ROCKi compounds in support of its clinical status. In contrast, at uniform EC50-levels using netarsudil as reference, all ROCKi compounds performed similarly. Collectively, our data suggest that netarsudil exhibits high potency to rescue HTM cell pathobiology in a tissue-mimetic 3D ECM microenvironment, solidifying the utility of our bioengineered hydrogel model as a viable screening platform to further our understanding of TM pathophysiology in glaucoma.
Metformin Alleviates LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Regulating the SIRT1/NF-κB/NLRP3 Pathway and Inhibiting Endothelial Cell Pyroptosis
Authors: Zhang Yunqian , Zhang Hui , Li Siyuan , Huang Kai , Jiang Lai , Wang Yan
Published: July 2022

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a devastating complication of numerous conditions, is often associated with high mortality. It is well known that endothelial cell (EC) damage and inflammation are vital processes in the pathogenesis of ARDS. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of EC damage are largely unknown. In the present study, we investigated the role of pyroptosis in the initiation of ARDS and demonstrated that endothelial pyroptosis might play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of ARDS. Metformin, an antidiabetic drug, exhibited a protective effect in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury, and we hypothesized that metformin alleviated LPS-induced lung injury via inhibiting ECs pyroptosis. In vivo, male ICR mice were intratracheally injected with LPS, and metformin was previously administered intraperitoneally. Morphological properties of lung tissues were detected. We showed that metformin inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation and NLRP3-stimulated pyroptosis induction, as shown by decreased levels of cleaved caspase-1, N-terminal fragment of GSDMD, and protein contents of IL-1β in lung tissues of mice exposed to LPS. LPS-induced expression of vascular adhesion molecules was also reduced after the treatment with metformin. In vitro, exposure of pulmonary ECs to LPS resulted in increased expression of NLRP3 and pyroptosis-associated indicators. By inhibiting the expression of NLRP3 with NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950, pyroptosis-related markers and vascular adhesion molecules were ameliorated. Moreover, metformin treatment significantly inhibited the NF-κB signaling pathway and increased the expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) both in LPS-stimulated lung tissues and pulmonary ECs. Administration of the selective SIRT1 inhibitor nicotinamide significantly reversed the protective effect of metformin against endothelial pyroptosis and lung injury in LPS-treated ECs and LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Thus, these findings demonstrated that metformin alleviated LPS-induced ALI by inhibiting NF-κB-NLRP3–mediated ECs pyroptosis, possibly by upregulating the expression of SIRT1.
Rhizoma Gastrodiae Water Extract Modulates the Gut Microbiota and Pathological Changes of P-TauThr231 to Protect Against Cognitive Impairment in Mice
Authors: Zhao Wenbin , Wang Jianhui , Latta Maria , Wang Chenyu , Liu Yuheng , Ma Wantong , Zhou Zhongkun , Hu Shujian , Chen Peng , Liu Yingqian
Published: July 2022

Gastrodiae Rhizoma and its active constituents are known to exhibit neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the effect of Rhizoma Gastrodiae water extract (WERG) on AD and the detailed mechanism of action remain unclear. In this study, the mechanism of action of WERG was investigated by the microbiome–gut–brain axis using a D-galactose (D-gal)/AlCl3-induced AD mouse model. WERG improved the cognitive impairment of D-gal/AlCl3-induced mice. The expression level of p-Tauthr231 in the WERG-H treatment group was decreased, and p-Tauthr231 was found negative in hippocampal DG, CA1, and CA3 regions. Here, the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota were analyzed by 16sRNA sequencing. WERG-H treatment had a positive correlation with Firmicutes, Bacilli, Lactobacillus johnsonii, Lactobacillus murinus, and Lactobacillus reuteri. Interestingly, the Rikenellaceae-RC9 gut group in the gut increased in D-gal/AlCl3-induced mice, but the increased L. johnsonii, L. murinus, and L. reuteri reversed this process. This may be a potential mechanistic link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and P-TauThr231 levels in AD progression. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that WERG improved the cognitive impairment of the AD mouse model by enriching gut probiotics and reducing P-TauThr231 levels.
Cisplatin-Induced Anorexia and Pica Behavior in Rats Enhanced by Chronic Stress Pretreatment
Authors: Guo Zhijun , Duan Jingjing , Chen Yitian , Cai Weijia , Yang Chenghua , Yang Zhen , Liu Xiufeng , Xu Feng
Published: July 2022

Background: Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting severely impairs the treatment and prognosis of cancer patients. Depressive mood disorder might aggravate nausea and vomiting in cancer patients; however, the role of neurotransmitters and receptors involved in the mediation of emesis and nausea is still not well elaborated.

Methods: The study was carried out based on the chronic unpredictable mild stress–induced depression-like phenotype rat model and cisplatin-induced pica rat model establishment. Forty male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized into the non-treated control group and the chronic stress group, which were exposed to 8 weeks of stress. Each group was then sub-divided into vehicle subgroups (n = 10) and cisplatin subgroups (n = 10) which were given cisplatin to induce pica behavior. Kaolin and food intake were recorded after administration. The medulla oblongata and ileum tissues were obtained. Neurotransmitters involved in the mediation of emesis and nausea (5-HT, DA, SP, and AEA) were detected using an ELISA kit. Vomit-related receptors (5-HT3R, DA2R, NK1R, and CB1R) in tissues were assayed for mRNA and protein expression by RT-qPCR and Western blotting.

Results: Behavioral test and sucrose preference validated that depression-like phenotype rat models were established successfully. The kaolin consumption test confirmed that chronic stress pretreatment aggravated anorexia and pica behavior. Vomiting-related molecules’ data showed that chronic stress exposure increased 5-HT and SP levels in the medulla oblongata. Vomiting-related receptor expression data showed that chronic stress pretreatment upregulated 5-HT3R, DA2R, and NK1R expressions and downregulated the CB1R expression in the medulla oblongata. However, chronic stress pretreatment downregulated 5-HT3R, DA2R, and NK1R expressions and upregulated the CB1R expression in the ileum.

Conclusion: Chronic stress pretreatment aggravates anorexia and vomiting progress, which might be via altering neurotransmitters and receptors involved in the mediation of emesis and the nausea level and expression in the central nervous system.
The Role and Mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Airway Inflammation and Remodeling in Asthma: Overview and Progress
Authors: Zhou Bo-wen , Liu Hua-man , Jia Xin-hua
Published: July 2022

Asthma as an individual disease has blighted human health for thousands of years and is still a vital global health challenge at present. Though getting much progress in the utilization of antibiotics, mucolytics, and especially the combination of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting β-agonists (LABA), we are confused about the management of asthmatic airway inflammation and remodeling, which directly threatens the quality of life for chronic patients. The blind addition of ICS will not benefit the remission of cough, wheeze, or sputum, but to increase the risk of side effects. Thus, it is necessary to explore an effective therapy to modulate asthmatic inflammation and airway remodeling. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has justified its anti-asthma effect in clinical practice but its underlying mechanism and specific role in asthma are still unknown. Some animal studies demonstrated that the classic formula, direct exacts, and natural compounds isolated from TCM could significantly alleviate airway structural alterations and exhibit the anti-inflammatory effects. By investigating these findings and data, we will discuss the possible pathomechanism underlined airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma and the unique role of TCM in the treatment of asthma through regulating different signaling pathways.
Altered Serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) Receptor Signaling Underlies Mild TBI-Elicited Deficits in Social Dominance
Authors: Collins Sean M. , O’Connell Christopher J. , Reeder Evan L. , Norman Sophia V. , Lungani Kainat , Gopalan Poornima , Gudelsky Gary A. , Robson Matthew J.
Published: July 2022

Various forms of traumatic brain injury (TBI) are a leading cause of disability in the United States, with the generation of neuropsychiatric complications such as depression, anxiety, social dysfunction, and suicidality being common comorbidities. Serotonin (5-HT) signaling is linked to psychiatric disorders; however, the effects of neurotrauma on normal, homeostatic 5-HT signaling within the central nervous system (CNS) have not been well characterized. We hypothesize that TBI alters specific components of 5-HT signaling within the CNS and that the elucidation of specific TBI-induced alterations in 5-HT signaling may identify novel targets for pharmacotherapies that ameliorate the neuropsychiatric complications of TBI. Herein, we provide evidence that closed-head blast-induced mild TBI (mTBI) results in selective alterations in cortical 5-HT2A receptor signaling. We find that mTBI increases in vivo cortical 5-HT2A receptor sensitivity and ex vivo radioligand binding at time points corresponding with mTBI-induced deficits in social behavior. In contrast, in vivo characterizations of 5-HT1A receptor function revealed no effect of mTBI. Notably, we find that repeated pharmacologic activation of 5-HT2A receptors post-injury reverses deficits in social dominance resulting from mTBI. Cumulatively, these studies provide evidence that mTBI drives alterations in cortical 5-HT2A receptor function and that selective targeting of TBI-elicited alterations in 5-HT2A receptor signaling may represent a promising avenue for the development of pharmacotherapies for TBI-induced generation of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Argininosuccinate synthase 1, arginine deprivation therapy and cancer management
Authors: Sun Naihui , Zhao Xing
Published: July 2022

Metabolic reprogramming is an emerging hallmark of tumor cells. In order to survive in the nutrient-deprived environment, tumor cells rewire their metabolic phenotype to provide sufficient energy and build biomass to sustain their transformed state and promote malignant behaviors. Amino acids are the main compositions of protein, which provide key intermediate substrates for the activation of signaling pathways. Considering that cells can synthesize arginine via argininosuccinate synthase 1 (ASS1), arginine is regarded as a non-essential amino acid, making arginine depletion as a promising therapeutic strategy for ASS1-silencing tumors. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of expression pattern of ASS1 and related signaling pathways in cancer and its potential role as a novel therapeutic target in cancer. Besides, we outline how ASS1 affects metabolic regulation and tumor progression and further discuss the role of ASS1 in arginine deprivation therapy. Finally, we review approaches to target ASS1 for cancer therapies.
Elevated plasma syndecan-1 as glycocalyx injury marker predicts unfavorable outcomes after rt-PA intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Zhao Fangfang , Wang Rongliang , Huang Yuyou , Li Lingzhi , Zhong Liyuan , Hu Yue , Han Ziping , Fan Junfen , Liu Ping , Zheng Yangmin , Luo Yumin
Published: July 2022

Purpose: We aimed to examine the prognostic value of syndecan-1 as a marker of glycocalyx injury in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) receiving rt-PA intravenous thrombolysis.

Methods: The study included 108 patients with AIS treated with rt-PA intravenous thrombolysis and 47 healthy controls. Patients were divided into unfavorable and favorable prognosis groups based on modified Rankin Scale scores. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine risk factors affecting prognosis. Risk prediction models presented as nomograms. The predictive accuracy and clinical value of the new model were also evaluated.

Results: Plasma levels of syndecan-1 were significantly higher in patients with AIS than in controls (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis indicated that higher levels of syndecan-1 were more frequent in patients with poor prognosis than in those with good prognosis (t = −4.273, p < 0.001). Syndecan-1 alone and in combination with other factors predicted patient outcomes. After adjusting for confounding factors, syndecan-1 levels remained associated with poor prognosis [odds ratio, 1.024; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.010–1.038]. The risk model exhibited a good fit, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.935 (95% CI, 0.888–0.981). The categorical net reclassification index (NRI) and continuous NRI values were >0. The integrated discrimination improvement value was 0.111 (95% CI, 0.049–0.174, p < 0.001). Decision curve analysis indicated that the model incorporating syndecan-1 levels was more clinically valuable than the conventional model.

Conclusion: Plasma syndecan-1 levels represent a potential marker of prognosis of AIS following intravenous thrombolysis. Adding syndecan-1 to the conventional model may improve risk stratification.
Propagation properties and radiation forces of partially coherent self-shifting cosine-Gaussian beams
Authors: Peng Xi , He Shangling , He Yingji , Deng Dongmei , Zhao Daomu
Published: July 2022

In the ABCD optical system, the propagation properties and the radiation forces are obtained by studying the cross spectral density of partially coherent self-shifting cosine-Gaussian beams. A self-shifting phenomenon occurs when the beams propagate in the strongly nonlocal nonlinear medium. The shifting parameters could influence the bend characteristics of the propagation trajectory and the beam center, while the power ratio affects the periods of the parabolic trajectory. Furthermore, the radiation forces on a Rayleigh particle in the focusing optical system are studied, and the obtained force distributions depend on the refractive index, the shifting parameters, and the coherence widths. What we report here has potential applications in optical communication and optical tweezing.
Characterization of the Induced Magnetic Field on Third-Grade Micropolar Fluid Flow Across an Exponentially Stretched Sheet
Authors: Awan Aziz Ullah , Akbar Asia Ali , Hamam Haneen , Gamaoun Fehmi , Tag-ElDin ElSyed M. , Abdulrahman Amal
Published: July 2022

The current research article discusses the two-dimensional, laminar, steady, and incompressible third-grade viscoelastic micropolar fluid flow along with thermal radiation caused by an exponentially stretched sheet. The primary goal of this extensive study is to improve thermal transportation. Thermophoresis and Brownian motion are two key causes of nanoparticle migration in nanofluids, and their impacts on the thermophysical properties of nanofluids are significant. Micropolar fluids are investigated due to their micro-motions that are significant in convective thermal and mass transport polymer formation, nanotechnology, and electronics. The consequences of third-grade fluid parameters, thermophoresis and Brownian motion, induced magnetic field, micro-polarity, and micro-inertia density on the stream of an electrically conductive fluid are analyzed. A homogeneous magnetic field is supplied perpendicularly to the surface, and the liquid is believed to be electrically conducting. As the flow has a significant magnetic Reynolds number, the contribution of the evoked magnetic field is properly accounted in the governing equations. A mathematical model in the form of partial differential equations (PDEs) is built under certain assumptions. By invoking the suitable similarity transformation, the non-linear PDEs are modified into dimensionless coupled ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The MATLAB numerical technique bvp4c is employed to settle the subsequent ODEs together with the boundary constraints. The consequences of numerous physical parameters on the non-dimensional concentration, temperature, micropolar, velocity, and induced magnetic field profiles are portrayed in graphs. It is found that the concentration boundary layer, thermal boundary layer, and micropolar boundary layer thickness decelerate with the increment in the micro-polarity of the fluid.
Muscle Deoxygenation Rates and Reoxygenation Modeling During a Sprint Interval Training Exercise Performed Under Different Hypoxic Conditions
Authors: Solsona Robert , Deriaz Roméo , Borrani Fabio , Sanchez Anthony M. J.
Published: July 2022

This study compared the kinetics of muscle deoxygenation and reoxygenation during a sprint interval protocol performed under four modalities: blood flow restriction at 60% of the resting femoral artery occlusive pressure (BFR), gravity-induced BFR (G-BFR), simulated hypoxia (FiO2≈13%, HYP) and normoxia (NOR). Thirteen healthy men performed each session composed of five all-out 30-s efforts interspaced with 4 min of passive recovery. Total work during the exercises was 17 ± 3.4, 15.8 ± 2.9, 16.7 ± 3.4, and 18.0 ± 3.0 kJ for BFR, G-BFR, HYP and NOR, respectively. Muscle oxygenation was continuously measured with near-infrared spectroscopy. Tissue saturation index (TSI) was modelled with a linear function at the beginning of the sprint and reoxygenation during recovery with an exponential function. Results showed that both models were adjusted to the TSI (R2 = 0.98 and 0.95, respectively). Greater deoxygenation rates were observed in NOR compared to BFR (p = 0.028). No difference was found between the conditions for the deoxygenation rates relative to sprint total work (p > 0.05). Concerning reoxygenation, the amplitude of the exponential was not different among conditions (p > 0.05). The time delay of reoxygenation was longer in BFR compared to the other conditions (p < 0.05). A longer time constant was found for G-BFR compared to the other conditions (p < 0.05), and mean response time was longer for BFR and G-BFR. Finally, sprint performance was correlated with faster reoxygenation. Hence, deoxygenation rates were not different between the conditions when expressed relatively to total sprint work. Furthermore, BFR conditions impair reoxygenation: BFR delays and G-BFR slows down reoxygenation.
Cutaneous TRPV4 Channels Activate Warmth-Defense Responses in Young and Adult Birds
Authors: Cristina-Silva Caroline , Amaral-Silva Lara , Santos Kassia Moreira , Correa Gabriela Monteiro , da Silva Welex Candido , Fernandes Marcia H. M. R. , da Silva Glauber S. F. , Gargaglioni Luciane H. , Almeida Maria C. , Bicego Kenia C.
Published: July 2022

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channels are sensitive to warm ambient temperatures (Tas), triggering heat loss responses in adult rats in a Tas range of ∼26–30°C. In birds, however, the thermoregulatory role of TRPV4 has never been shown. Here, we hypothesized that stimulation of TRPV4 induces thermolytic responses for body temperature (Tb) maintenance in birds, and that this function is already present in early life, when the Ta range for TRPV4 activation does not represent a warm condition for these animals. We first demonstrated the presence of TRPV4 in the dorsal and ventral skin of chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) by immunohistochemistry. Then, we evaluated the effects of the TRPV4 agonist, RN1747, and the TRPV4 antagonists, HC067047 and GSK2193874, on Tb and thermoeffectors at different Tas in 5-day-old chicks and 60-day-old adult chickens. For the chicks, RN1747 transiently reduced Tb both in thermoneutrality (31°C) and in a cold Ta for this phase (26°C), which relied on huddling behavior inhibition. The TRPV4 antagonists alone did not affect Tb or thermoeffectors but blocked the Tb decrease and huddling inhibition promoted by RN1747. For the adults, TRPV4 antagonism increased Tb when animals were exposed to 28°C (suprathermoneutral condition for adults), but not to 19°C. In contrast, RN1747 decreased Tb by reducing metabolic rate and activating thermal tachypnea at 19°C, a Ta below the activation range of TRPV4. Our results indicate that peripheral TRPV4 receptors are functional in early life, but may be inhibited at that time when the range of activation (∼26–30°C) represents cold Ta for chicks, and become physiologically relevant for Tb maintenance when the activation Ta range for TRPV4 becomes suprathermoneutral for adult chickens.
Resistance characteristics of broad-leaf crop canopy in air-assisted spray field and their effects on droplet deposition
Authors: Wu Shuo , Liu Jizhan , Zhen Junquan , Lei Xiaojie , Chen Yao
Published: July 2022

Air-assisted spray technology is widely applied in high-efficiency pesticide applications. The resistance characteristics of the crop canopy reflect its energy dissipation effect on the assisted airflow, connecting the structure of the crop canopy, assisted airflow velocity, and droplet deposition effect. Using a common broad-leaf crop canopy as the research object, the resistance characteristics of the crop canopy in the air-assisted field were investigated in this study by performing theoretical analysis and wind tunnel tests. Further, the feasibility of using the resistance characteristics of the crop canopy was assessed to evaluate its droplet deposition effect. The results showed that under the conditions of different number of leaf layers and initial leaf azimuth angles, the canopy pressure drop experiences a non-linear increasing trend with increasing assisted airflow velocity and that its regression function conforms to the Darcy–Forchheimer function. Moreover, when the initial azimuth angles of single- and multi-layer leaves were 90°–270°, the change rate of the canopy pressure drop with airflow velocity was 7–9 m/s, and there was a critical wind speed. However, with an increasing number of leaf layers in the crop canopy and changes in the initial leaf azimuth angle, the corresponding changes between the maximum canopy pressure drop and resistance coefficient were non-linear. Thus, it is proposed that the resistance characteristics of multi-layer leaves cannot be quantified as the results of the linear superposition of the resistance characteristics of several single-layer leaves—that is, it should be regarded as a whole research object. Combined with the analysis of the influence of the crop canopy resistance on droplet deposition, it is considered that when the crop canopy has multiple leaf layers in the airflow direction, the existing air-assisted spray technology cannot guarantee droplet deposition and canopy penetration simultaneously.
SlCESTA Is a Brassinosteroid-Regulated bHLH Transcription Factor of Tomato That Promotes Chilling Tolerance and Fruit Growth When Over-Expressed
Authors: Shuai Haiwei , Chen Tingting , Wlk Tanja , Rozhon Wilfried , Pimenta Lange Maria J. , Sieberer Tobias , Lange Theo , Poppenberger Brigitte
Published: July 2022

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are required for various aspects of plant growth and development, but also participate in stress responses. The hormones convey their activity through transcriptional regulation and posttranslational modification of transcription factors and one class are basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins of the BR Enhanced Expression (BEE) subfamily, which in Arabidopsis thaliana include BEE1-3 and CESTA (CES). CES and the BEEs promote the expression of different BR-responsive genes, including genes encoding gibberellin (GA) biosynthetic and catabolizing enzymes, as well as cold-responsive genes. Interestingly, in terms of an application, CES could promote both fruit growth and cold stress tolerance when over-expressed in A. thaliana and here it was investigated, if this function is conserved in the fruit crop Solanum lycopersicum (cultivated tomato). Based on amino acid sequence similarity and the presence of regulatory motifs, a CES orthologue of S. lycopersicum, SlCES, was identified and the effects of its over-expression were analysed in tomato. This showed that SlCES, like AtCES, was re-localized to nuclear bodies in response to BR signaling activation and that it effected GA homeostasis, with related phenotypes, when over-expressed. In addition, over-expression lines showed an increased chilling tolerance and had altered fruit characteristics. The possibilities and potential limitations of a gain of SlCES function as a breeding strategy for tomato are discussed.
Viability of Wildflower Seeds After Mesophilic Anaerobic Digestion in Lab-Scale Biogas Reactors
Authors: Hahn Juliane , Westerman Paula R. , de Mol Friederike , Heiermann Monika , Gerowitt Bärbel
Published: July 2022

The use of wildflower species as biogas feedstock carries the risk that their seeds survive anaerobic digestion (AD) and cause weed problems if spread with the digestate. Risk factors for seed survival in AD include low temperature, short exposure and hardseededness (HS). However, it is not possible to predict how AD will affect seed viability of previously unstudied species. In laboratory-scale reactors, we exposed seeds of eight species from a mixture of flowering wild plants intended as biogas feedstock and three reference species to AD at two mesophilic temperatures. Half of the species were HS, the other was non-HS (NHS). Viability was determined using a combination of tetrazolium and germination tests. Viability and germinability were modeled as functions of exposure time using a dose-response approach. Responses to AD varied considerably among species, and none of the considered influencing factors (time, temperature, HS) had a consistent effect. Seed lots of a species differed in inactivation times and seed-killing efficacy. The HS species Melilotus officinalis, Melilotus albus, and Malva sylvestris were particularly AD-resistant. They were the only ones that exhibited biphasic viability curves and tended to survive and germinate more at 42°C than at 35°C. Viability of the remaining species declined in a sigmoidal curve. Most NHS species were inactivated within a few days (Cichorium intybus, Daucus carota, Echium vulgare, and Verbascum thapsus), while HS species survived longer (Malva alcea). AD stimulated germination in the HS species A. theophrasti and its AD-resistance overlapped with that of the most resistant NHS species, C. album and tomato. In all seed lots, germinability was lost faster than viability, implying that mainly dormant seeds survived. After the maximum exposure time of 36 days, seeds of HS species and Chenopodium album were still viable. We concluded that viability responses to mesophilic AD were determined by the interplay of AD-conditions and species- and seed-lot-specific traits, of which HS was an important but only one factor. For the use of wildflowers as biogas feedstock, we recommended long retention times and special care with regard to HS species.
The novel ZmTCP7 transcription factor targets AGPase-encoding gene ZmBt2 to regulate storage starch accumulation in maize
Authors: Ajayo Babatope Samuel , Li Yangping , Wang Yayun , Dai Chengdong , Gao Lei , Liu Hanmei , Yu Guowu , Zhang Junjie , Huang Yubi , Hu Yufeng
Published: July 2022

The process of starch biosynthesis is a major developmental event that affects the final grain yield and quality in maize (Zea mays L.), and transcriptional regulation plays a key role in modulating the expression of the main players in the pathway. ZmBt2, which encodes the small subunits of AGPase, is a rate-controlling gene of the pathway; however, much remains unknown about its transcriptional regulation. Our earlier study identifies a short functional fragment of ZmBt2 promoter (394-bp), and further shows it contains multiple putative cis-acting regulatory elements, demonstrating that several transcription factors may govern ZmBt2 expression. Here, we identified a novel TCP transcription factor (TF), ZmTCP7, that interacted with the functional fragment of the ZmBt2 promoter in a yeast one hybrid screening system. We further showed that ZmTCP7 is a non-autonomous TF targeted to the nucleus and predominantly expressed in maize endosperm. Using promoter deletion analyzes by transient expression in maize endosperm protoplasts combined with electrophoretic mobility shift assays, we found that ZmTCP7 bound to GAACCCCAC elements on the ZmBt2 promoter to suppress its expression. Transgenic overexpression of ZmTCP7 in maize caused a significant repression of ZmBt2 transcription by ~77.58%, resulting in a 21.51% decrease in AGPase activity and a 9.58% reduction in the endosperm starch content of transgenic maize. Moreover, the expressions of ZmBt1, ZmSSI, ZmSSIIa, and ZmSSIIIa were increased, while those of ZmSh2 and ZmSSIV reduced significantly in the endosperm of the transgenic maize. Overall, this study shows that ZmTCP7 functions as a transcriptional repressor of ZmBt2 and a negative regulator of endosperm starch accumulation, providing new insights into the regulatory networks that govern ZmBt2 expression and starch biosynthesis pathway in maize.
A short-term cooling of root-zone temperature increases bioactive compounds in baby leaf Amaranthus tricolor L.
Authors: Wittayathanarattana Takon , Wanichananan Praderm , Supaibulwatana Kanyaratt , Goto Eiji
Published: July 2022

Leafy vegetables that are offered as seedling leaves with petioles are referred to as baby leaf vegetables. One of the most nutritious baby leaves, amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.), contains several bioactive compounds and nutrients. Here, we investigated the growth and quality of baby leaf amaranth using a variety of short-term cooling root-zone temperatures (RZT; 5, 10, 15, and 20°C), periods (1, 3, 5, and 7 days), and combinations thereof. We observed that exposing amaranth seedlings to RZT treatments at 5 and 10°C for 1–3 days increased the antioxidant capacity and the concentrations of bioactive compounds, such as betalain, anthocyanin, phenolic, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid; however, extending the treatment period to 7 days decreased them and adversely affected growth. For RZT treatments at 20°C, leaf photosynthetic pigments, bioactive compounds, nutrients, and antioxidant capacity increased gradually as the treatment period was extended to 7 days. The integration of RZTs at 5 and 10°C for one day preceded or followed by an RZT treatment at 20°C for 2 days had varied effects on the growth and quality of amaranth leaves. After one day of RZT treatment at 5°C followed by 2 days of RZT treatment at 20°C, the highest concentrations of bioactive compounds, nutrients, and antioxidant capacity were 1.4–3.0, 1.7, and 1.7 times higher, respectively, than those of the control, and growth was not impaired. The short-term cooling RZT treatments under controlled environments were demonstrated to be adequate conditions for the improvement of target bioactive compounds in amaranth baby leaf without causing leaf abnormality or growth impairment.
Thirty Years of Mungbean Genome Research: Where Do We Stand and What Have We Learned?
Authors: Somta Prakit , Laosatit Kularb , Yuan Xingxing , Chen Xin
Published: July 2022

Mungbean is a socioeconomically important legume crop in Asia that is currently in high demand by consumers and industries both as dried beans and in plant-based protein foods. Marker-assisted and genomics-assisted breeding are promising approaches to efficiently and rapidly develop new cultivars with improved yield, quality, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Although mungbean was at the forefront of research at the dawn of the plant genomics era 30 years ago, the crop is a “slow runner” in genome research due to limited genomic resources, especially DNA markers. Significant progress in mungbean genome research was achieved only within the last 10 years, notably after the release of the VC1973A draft reference genome constructed using next-generation sequencing technology, which enabled fast and efficient DNA marker development, gene mapping, and identification of candidate genes for complex traits. Resistance to biotic stresses has dominated mungbean genome research to date; however, research is on the rise. In this study, we provide an overview of the past progress and current status of mungbean genomics research. We also discuss and evaluate some research results to provide a better understanding of mungbean genomics.
Advances on Self-Regulation Models: A New Research Agenda Through the SR vs ER Behavior Theory in Different Psychology Contexts
Authors: de la Fuente Jesús , Martínez-Vicente José Manuel , Santos Flavia H. , Sander Paul , Fadda Salvatore , Karagiannopoulou Evangelia , Boruchovitch Evely , Kauffman Douglas F.
Published: July 2022

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate how Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory (1986) influenced the development of several complementary models of the construct of Self-Regulation. Building on the foundation of Self-Determination Theory, SDT (2000), and Zimmerman's Self-Regulation Theory, SR (2001), with their assumptions, contributions, goddesses, and limitations, we come to the Self- vs. External Regulatory Theory, SR-ER (2021). Finally, we integrate recent evidence demonstrating the explanatory adequacy of the SR vs. ER model for different psychological constructions in different settings related to education, health, clinical practice and social work. Complementary, a new theoretical and empirical research agenda is presented, to continue testing the adequacy of SR vs. ER assumptions, and to better understand the behavioral variability of the different constructs studied.
Uptake of and Motivational Responses to Mental Health-Promoting Practices: Comparing Relaxation and Mindfulness Interventions
Authors: Beattie Marguerite M. , Hankonen Nelli E. , Konttinen Hanna M. , Volanen Salla-Maarit
Published: July 2022

Background

Comparative analyses of alternative interventions within the same trial enable acceptability and fidelity of each to be investigated more critically. In addition, whereas so far studies have focused on efficacy evaluations, more understanding is needed on motivational factors influencing the uptake of mental health-promoting practices rather than solely their effects.

Purpose

This study investigates whether the motivational responses to a mindfulness intervention are different from a relaxation intervention. We compare social cognitions outlined by the reasoned action approach and their roles in practice uptake, self-reported reasons for non-practice, and experienced benefits.

Methods

In a cluster-randomized trial (ISRCTN18642659; N = 3134), 12–15-year-old participants were given a 9-week intervention and followed up to 52 weeks. Main statistical analyses included t-tests, mixed ANOVAs, path models, and chi-square tests.

Results

Social cognitions in the mindfulness arm were slightly more positive immediately post-intervention, but recipients mostly responded similarly to the two interventions in the longer term. While attitudes, norms, intention, and self-efficacy were relatively high post-intervention, most of them slightly decreased by 26 weeks. Main reasons for non-practice in both arms included not finding the exercises helpful, no felt need, boringness of exercises and forgetting. The most common benefits experienced by practicing respondents were stress management and concentration ability. Better sleep was a more frequently reported benefit in the relaxation arm, but no other major differences emerged.

Conclusion

This study offers an example of comparing motivational responses to experimental and active control arm interventions, a potentially helpful approach in improving intervention adherence.
Vocabulary Learning in Chinese as a Second Language: Exploring the Role of Self-Regulation in Facilitating Vocabulary Knowledge of Second Language Learners
Authors: Zhu Sida , Wang Cong
Published: July 2022

Vocabulary knowledge comprises depth and breadth, which are regarded as important indicators of second language (L2) learning capability. Self-regulation is a key factor in promoting vocabulary knowledge. However, the role and contribution of depth and breadth in and to L2 learning, as well as the predictive role of different factors of self-regulation in depth and breadth, remain unclear. Therefore, this study aims to identify the relationship between vocabulary knowledge and self-regulation by establishing a structural equation model based on exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using self-regulation and vocabulary knowledge (depth and breadth) questionnaires. A total of 215 Vietnamese university students participated in the research. The results show that Vietnamese university students generally obtain high scores in breadth, but their scores vary in depth, which indicates although most of them can accurately understand some aspects of Chinese word meaning, they are not able to command the form and usage of words. In addition, there is a negative correlation between self-regulation and vocabulary breadth, which demonstrates that high self-regulation, especially emotional control, can affect Vietnamese university students’ vocabulary learning. This study also proposes some suggestions for Chinese vocabulary teaching.
Therapeutic Suggestions During General Anesthesia Reduce Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in High-Risk Patients – A Post hoc Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nowak Hartmuth , Wolf Alexander , Rahmel Tim , Oprea Guenther , Grause Lisa , Moeller Manuela , Gyarmati Katharina , Mittler Corinna , Zagler Alexandra , Lutz Katrin , Loeser Johannes , Saller Thomas , Tryba Michael , Adamzik Michael , Hansen Ernil , Zech Nina
Published: July 2022

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are one of the most adverse events after general anesthesia, a distressing experience, and pose a risk to the patient. Despite advances in drug prophylaxis and PONV treatment, the incidence remains high and additional non-pharmacological treatments are needed. In this post hoc analysis of a recently published double-blind multicenter randomized controlled trial on the efficacy of intraoperative therapeutic suggestions on postoperative opioid dosage, we analyzed the effects of intraoperative therapeutic suggestions on PONV. We focus on patients with a high risk of PONV (Apfel risk score of 3–4) and distinguished early (first two postoperative hours) and delayed PONV (2–24 h). A total of 385 patients with a moderate or high risk for PONV were included. The incidence of early and delayed PONV was reduced (22.7–18.3 and 29.9–24.1%, respectively), without statistical significance, whereas in high-risk patients (n = 180) their incidence was nearly halved, 17.2 vs. 31.2% (p = 0.030) and 20.7 vs. 34.4% (p = 0.040), corresponding to a number needed to treat of 7 to avoid PONV. In addition, there was a significant reduction in PONV severity. In a multivariate logistic regression model, assignment to the control group (OR 2.2; 95% CI: 1.1–4.8) was identified as an independent predictor of the occurrence of early PONV. Our results indicate that intraoperative therapeutic suggestions can significantly reduce the incidence of PONV in high-risk patients. This encourages the expansion of therapeutic suggestions under general anesthesia, which are inexpensive and virtually free of side effects.

Clinical Trial Registration: German Clinical Trials Register, https://drks.de, registration number: DRKS00013800.
Characteristics in Initial Sandplay of Optimal and Non-optimal Family Functioning Among High School Students
Authors: Qiu-qiang Zheng , Guang-zhi Zhuo , Qi-zhe Zhang
Published: July 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study is to explore the characteristics of the initial sandplay of high school students with poor family function, by studying the initial sandplay of high school students with different levels of family function, so as to provide the basics for the psychological assessment and intervention of high school students.

Significance

To provide data support for high school students' mental health education and sandplay therapy, and to apply sandplay as an intervention method to play a healing role in high school mental health work.

Methods

High school students (N = 345) were divided into 11 groups and participated in a sandplay experiment for 8 weeks from February to March 2021. Each group completed the Chinese version of the Epstein et al. Family Assessment Device. Samples with scores of one standard deviation below and above the sample mean were placed in the low family functioning group (n = 30; 15 girls) or high family functioning group (n = 30; 15 girls), respectively. The initial sandplay was evaluated on multiple dimensions using an established coding system.

Results

Samples with low family functioning used fewer animal figurines in their sandplay (t = 2.176, p < 0.05); had more family scenes (χ2 = 4.356, p < 0.05); fewer rural scenes (χ2 = 4.344, p < 0.05); and fewer healing themes (t = −2.336, p < 0.05). In particular, there were fewer examples of connected healing themes (χ2 = 7.500, p < 0.05); in-depth healing themes (χ2 = 5.455, p < 0.05); and more hindered trauma themes (χ2 = 4.812, p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis was conducted using the sandplay characteristics as predictors of group membership. Using forward stepwise selection, themes of hindered trauma (B = −2.030) and connected healing (B=1.765) were shown to be significant predictors of group membership (F = 17.784, P < 0.01, ΔR2 = 0.214).

Conclusion

Students who reported high and low family functioning showed significant differences in their sandplay characteristics. We propose sandplay characteristics can help identify low family functioning of adolescents during psychological evaluations.