bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro assessment of the probiotic properties of an industrial preparation containing Lacticaseibacillus paracasei in the context of athlete health
Authors: Brunelli Laura , De Vitis Valerio , Ferrari Roberto , Minuzzo Mario , Fiore Walter , Jäger Ralf , Taverniti Valentina , Guglielmetti Simone
Published: August 2022

Intense physical activity is often associated with undesirable physiological changes, including increased inflammation, transient immunodepression, increased susceptibility to infections, altered intestinal barrier integrity, and increased oxidative stress. Several trials suggested that probiotics supplementation may have beneficial effects on sport-associated gastro-intestinal and immune disorders. Recently, in a placebo-controlled human trial, the AminoAlta™ probiotic formulation (AApf) was demonstrated to increase the absorption of amino acids from pea protein, suggesting that the administration of AApf could overcome the compositional limitations of plant proteins. In this study, human cell line models were used to assess in vitro the potential capacity of AApf to protect from the physiological damages that an intense physical activity may cause. The obtained results revealed that the bacteria in the AApf have the ability to adhere to differentiated Caco-2 epithelial cell layer. In addition, the AApf was shown to reduce the activation of NF-κB in Caco-2 cells under inflammatory stimulation. Notably, this anti-inflammatory activity was enhanced in the presence of partially hydrolyzed plant proteins. The AApf also triggered the expression of cytokines by the THP-1 macrophage model in a dose-dependent manner. In particular, the expression of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α was higher than that of the regulatory cytokine IL-10, resembling a cytokine profile characteristic of M1 phenotype, which typically intervene in counteracting bacterial and viral infections. Finally, AApf was shown to reduce transepithelial permeability and increase superoxide dismutase activity in the Caco-2 cell model. In conclusion, this study suggests that the AApf may potentially provide a spectrum of benefits useful to dampen the gastro-intestinal and immune detrimental consequences of an intense physical activity.
Drug-drug interactions between antithrombotics and direct-acting antivirals in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients: A brief, updated report
Authors: Canonico Mario Enrico , Sanna Giuseppe Damiano , Siciliano Roberta , Scudiero Fernando , Esposito Giovanni , Parodi Guido
Published: August 2022

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease affecting over 71 million people worldwide. An increased incidence of atherothrombotic events [e.g. coronary artery disease (CAD), atrial fibrillation (AF)] has been observed in HCV seropositive patients. On the other hand, an increased bleeding risk is another clinical issue, particularly in subjects with liver cirrhosis, gastroesophageal varices, portal hypertension, thrombocytopenia and alcohol consumption. The introduction and progressively greater use of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) (instead of protease and polymerase inhibitors) during the last decade has enabled a sustained virological response to be achieved in a significant percentage of patients. However, due to the high cardiovascular risk profile in HCV-infected patients, the concomitant use of antithrombotic therapies is often required, bearing in mind the possible contraindications. For example, despite better pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties compared with vitamin K-antagonists, plasma level fluctuations of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) due to pathological conditions (e.g. chronic kidney diseases or hepatic cirrhosis) or drug-drug interactions (DDIs) may be of great importance as regards their safety profile and overall clinical benefit. We aimed to examine and briefly summarize the significant DDIs observed between antithrombotic and HCV antiviral drugs.
Cratoxylumxanthone C, a natural xanthone, inhibits lung cancer proliferation and metastasis by regulating STAT3 and FAK signal pathways
Authors: Li Yeling , Wang Huimei , Liu Wenhui , Hou Jiantong , Xu Jing , Guo Yuanqiang , Hu Ping
Published: August 2022

To discover phytochemicals as lead compounds for cancer treatment, cratoxylumxanthone C, a natural xanthone, was obtained from Cratoxylum cochinchinense (Lour.) Bl., for which there have been no reports on the biological effects against cancer. Our study revealed that cratoxylumxanthone C had significant anti-tumor activity by inducing apoptosis, augmenting cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and arresting cell circle. The mechanistic examination showed the inhibition of A549 cell proliferation and metastasis by cratoxylumxanthone C was coupled with the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling pathways. Furthermore, the zebrafish models confirmed its significant in vivo anti-tumor activity, in which cratoxylumxanthone C inhibited tumor proliferation and metastasis and suppressed the angiogenesis. Comprehensively, these cellular and zebrafish experiments implied that cratoxylumxanthone C may have the potential to become an anti-tumor agent for lung cancer, especially non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Pristimerin, a triterpene that inhibits monoacylglycerol lipase activity, prevents the development of paclitaxel-induced allodynia in mice
Authors: Al-Romaiyan Altaf , Masocha Willias
Published: August 2022

Background: Triterpenes such as euphol and pristimerin, which are plant secondary metabolites, were the first to be characterized as monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors. MAGL inhibitors alleviate chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CINP) in rodent models. Pristimerin has been shown to have additive anticancer activity with paclitaxel, a chemotherapeutic drug. However, the activity of pristimerin on CINP has not been evaluated.

Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate whether various triterpenes had activity against recombinant human MAGL and MAGL activity in mouse tissues, and whether pristimerin could prevent development of paclitaxel-induced mechanical allodynia.

Methods: The effects of four triterpenes betulinic acid, cucurbitacin B, euphol, and pristimerin on the activity human recombinant MAGL and MAGL activity of mice brain and paw skin tissues were evaluated using MAGL inhibitor screening and MAGL activity assay kits. The effects of treatment of female BALB/c mice with pristimerin intraperitoneally on the development of paclitaxel-induced mechanical allodynia were assessed using the dynamic plantar aesthesiometer and on nuclear factor-2 erythroid related factor-2 (Nrf2) gene expression in the paw skin were evaluated by real time polymerase chain reaction.

Results: Pristimerin inhibited the human recombinant MAGL activity in a concentration-dependent manner like JZL-195, a MAGL inhibitor. Betulinic acid, cucurbitacin B and euphol inhibited human recombinant MAGL activity but their effects were not concentration dependent and were less to that of pristimerin. Pristimerin inhibited both mouse brain and paw skin MAGL activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Paclitaxel induced mechanical allodynia and increase in MAGL activity in the paw skin. Treatment with pristimerin prevented the development of paclitaxel-induced mechanical allodynia and the paclitaxel-induced increase in MAGL activity. Pristimerin significantly upregulated mRNA expression of Nrf2, a regulator of endogenous antioxidant defense.

Conclusion: These results indicate that triterpenes inhibit human recombinant MAGL activity with varying degrees. Pristimerin inhibits both mouse brain and paw skin MAGL activity in a concentration-dependent manner, prevents both the development of paclitaxel-induced mechanical allodynia and the associated increase in MAGL activity in the paw skin, and might protect against paclitaxel-induced oxidative stress. Co-treatment with pristimerin and paclitaxel could be useful in the treatment of cancer and prevention of CINP.
Jiawei Runjing Decoction Improves Spermatogenesis of Cryptozoospermia With Varicocele by Regulating the Testicular Microenvironment: Two-Center Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Huang , Huang Zhongwang , Zheng Houbin , Zhu Zhiyong , Yang Hui , Liu Xingzhang , Pang Tao , He Liping , Lin Hai , Hu Lei , Zeng Qingqi , Han Lanying
Published: August 2022

Objective: The aim of the study was to explore the evidence of JWRJD in the treatment of cryptozoospermia.

Methods: A total of 162 cryptozoospermia patients with varicocele who refused to undergo surgery were included from January 2021 to December 2021. They were divided into the Jiawei Runjing Decoction group (group A), tamoxifen group (group B), and no treatment group (group C), and after the follow-up for 3 months, therapeutic effectiveness was compared. Network pharmacology was used to analyze and validate the effects and mechanisms of JWRJD.

Results: Fifty-eight patients were treated with JWRJD, 55 with tamoxifen, and 49 without any treatment. After treatment, five patients were lost: one in group A, one in group B, and three in group C. The sperm count and the decrease of FSH in group A were significantly higher, but the degree of decline in the testicular volume and the degree of vein expansion have decreased significantly, which were closely related to the testicular volume (TV) [especially changes in the left testicular volume (ΔL-TV)], citric acid (CC) and its changes (ΔCC), and the vein width (VW) [especially left spermatic vein width (L-VW) and mean vein width (M-VW) and their changes (ΔL-VW and ΔM-VW)], as well as the sperm count before the treatment (bSC), which were the significant indexes to predict the therapeutic effect, especially for patients >35 years old and with grade III varicoceles. Network pharmacological analysis verifies that it can be regulated by fluid shear stress and the atherosclerosis pathway to improve the testicular microenvironment for spermatogenesis.

Conclusion: JWRJD may promote spermatogenesis in cryptozoospermia patients with varicocele, which may be closely related to improving the testicular microenvironment, especially for >35 year olds and grade III varicocele patients.
Spectrum effect correlation of yangyin tongnao granules on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury rats
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Yu Li , Yang Jiehong , Ding Zhishan , He Yu , Wan Haitong
Published: August 2022

Yangyin Tongnao Granules (YYTNG), as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compound preparation, have a good curative effect on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the active components of YYTNG in the plasma and the inflammatory response in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury rats. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was conducted to determine the fingerprints at different time points of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats after the administration of YYTNG at different times points. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect the levels of interleukin-18 (IL-18) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the plasma of MCAO rats at different time points. The spectral-effect relationship between the YYTNG fingerprints and inflammatory indexes in vivo was established by combining three different mathematical models, grey correlation, multiple linear regression, and partial least-square method. The results revealed that each chromatographic peak in the HPLC of the plasma exhibited a certain correlation with the inflammatory index, in the following order: P2 >P6 >P5 >P1 >P3 >P4. Therefore, this study successfully established the spectrum-effect correlation of YYTNG on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury rats. The results provide a certain guiding ideology for the analyses of the relationship between fingerprints and the pharmacodynamics of TCM prescriptions.
Monolithic arrays of silicon sensors
Authors: Harding Ian , Chen Wei , Giacomini Gabriele , Kuczewski Anthony , Rumaiz Abdul K. , Siddons David Peter
Published: August 2022

Monolithic arrays of silicon p-n junctions are commonly used to deliver spatial information on impinging radiation, with the advantages of low-noise and fast signal generation. Additionally, array geometries also allow for a segmentation of a large area into individual channels that can be read out in parallel, so that a high-event rate can be managed. To optimize the noise performance, however, some key points must be addressed to control the silicon/silicon oxide interface. Replacing the p-n junctions with silicon drift sensors avoids noise related to the interface states, at the expense of a more complicated process and slower signals. In this paper, some of the aspects needing consideration when engineering a monolithic array of silicon sensors are reviewed.
On the onset of breathing mode in Hall thrusters and the role of electron mobility fluctuations
Authors: Leporini L. , Giannetti V. , Saravia M. M. , Califano F. , Camarri S. , Andreussi T.
Published: August 2022

Breathing mode is an ionization instability which is observed ubiquitously in the operation of Hall thrusters. It is recognized as a relatively low frequency (10–30 kHz) longitudinal oscillation of the discharge current and the plasma parameters. Although breathing instability is widely studied in the literature, the conditions for its origin are not fully understood. In this work we investigate the mechanisms responsible for the origin of the breathing mode in Hall thrusters by using a numerical model, allowing us to highlight the importance of electron mobility fluctuations for the onset and self-sustenance of the instability. Our one-dimensional, fully fluid model of the thruster channel is calibrated against the measured discharge current signal for a 5 kW-class Hall thruster operating in a condition where breathing mode is fully developed. The corresponding steady, unstable configuration (base state) is numerically computed by applying the Selective Frequency Damping (SFD) method. Then, a series of numerical tests is performed to show the existence of a feedback loop involving fluctuations around the base state of the neutral density, electron mobility, and electric field. We show that oscillations of the electron mobility are mainly caused by variations of the neutral density and are in phase with them; this, in turn, induces oscillations of the electric field, which are in phase opposition. The electric field acts simultaneously on the electron temperature and on the ion dynamics, promoting the depletion and replenishment of neutrals in the chamber.
Both caffeine and Capsicum annuum fruit powder lower blood glucose levels and increase brown adipose tissue temperature in healthy adult males
Authors: Van Schaik Lachlan , Kettle Christine , Green Rod , Wundersitz Daniel , Gordon Brett , Irving Helen R. , Rathner Joseph A.
Published: August 2022

Using a combination of respiratory gas exchange, infrared thermography, and blood glucose (BGL) analysis, we have investigated the impact of Capsicum annuum (C. annuum) fruit powder (475 mg) or caffeine (100 mg) on metabolic activity in a placebo controlled (lactose, 100 mg) double-blinded three-way cross-over-design experiment. Metabolic measurements were made on day 1 and day 7 of supplementation in eight adult male participants (22.2 ± 2 years of age, BMI 23 ± 2 kg/m2, x̅ ± SD). Participants arrived fasted overnight and were fed a high carbohydrate meal (90 g glucose), raising BGL from fasting baseline (4.4 ± 0.3 mmol/L) to peak BGL (8.5 ± 0.3 mmol/L) 45 min after the meal. Participants consumed the supplement 45 min after the meal, and both caffeine and C. annuum fruit powder restored BGL (F (8,178) = 2.2, p = 0.02) to near fasting levels within 15 min of supplementation compared to placebo (120 min). In parallel both supplements increased energy expenditure (F (2, 21) = 175.6, p < 0.001) over the 120-min test period (caffeine = 50.74 ± 2 kcal/kg/min, C. annuum fruit = 50.95 ± 1 kcal/kg/min, placebo = 29.34 ± 1 kcal/kg/min). Both caffeine and C. annuum fruit powder increased supraclavicular fossa temperature (F (2,42) = 32, p < 0.001) on both day 1 and day 7 of testing over the 120-min test period. No statistical difference in core temperature or reference point temperature, mean arterial pressure or heart rate was observed due to supplementation nor was any statistical difference seen between day 1 and day 7 of intervention. This is important for implementing dietary ingredients as potential metabolism increasing supplements. Together the results imply that through dietary supplements such as caffeine and C. annuum, mechanisms for increasing metabolism can be potentially targeted to improve metabolic homeostasis in people.
Global, regional, and national burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Ye Xiaojuan , Zhang Yafeng , Ling Shiliang
Published: August 2022

Background: We aimed to estimate the incidence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in 204 countries and territories. We examined the variations in these trends by country, gender, age group, and sociodemographic index (SDI).

Methods: We calculated the estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) to assess temporal trends in the age-standardized incidence rate, age-standardized mortality rate, and age-standardized DALYs of COPD from 1990 to 2019.

Results: From 1990 to 2019, the COPD incidence and COPD-associated deaths and DALYs increased worldwide by 86%, 30%, and 26%, respectively. From 1990 to 2019, the global age-standardized incidence rate (EAPC, −0.11; 95% confidence interval (CI), −0.25 to 0.04), age-standardized mortality rate (EAPC, −2.10; 95% CI, −2.19 to −2.00), and age-standardized DALYs (EAPC, −1.87; 95% CI, −1.94 to −1.81) of COPD decreased. The age-standardized incidence of COPD increased most in areas with high SDI (EAPC 0.56). The largest increases in the age-standardized incidence rate of COPD were recorded in High-income North America (EAPC, 1.41), Southern Latin America (EAPC, 0.29), and North Africa and the Middle East (EAPC, 0.09). The three countries that recorded the largest increases in COPD incidence from 1990 to 2019 were the United States of America (EAPC, 1.51), Saudi Arabia (EAPC, 1.17), and Oman (EAPC, 1.10).

Conclusion: Despite the decreased burden of COPD globally from 1990 to 2019, the age-standardized incidence rate of COPD increased in areas with high SDI, High-income North America, Southern Latin America, North Africa, and the Middle East.
PLXND1-mediated calcium dyshomeostasis impairs endocardial endothelial autophagy in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Sun Mengjia , Chen Zhen , Song Yuanbin , Zhang Bo , Yang Jie , Tan Hu
Published: August 2022

Left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus detachment resulting in intracranial embolism is a major complication of atrial fibrillation (AF). Endocardial endothelial cell (EEC) injury leads to thrombosis, whereas autophagy protects against EEC dysfunction. However, the role and underlying mechanisms of autophagy in EECs during AF have not been elucidated. In this study, we isolated EECs from AF model mice and observed reduced autophagic flux and intracellular calcium concentrations in EECs from AF mice. In addition, we detected an increased expression of the mechanosensitive protein PLXND1 in the cytomembranes of EECs. PLXND1 served as a scaffold protein to bind with ORAI1 and further decreased ORAI1-mediated calcium influx. The decrease in the calcium influx-mediated phosphorylation of CAMK2 is associated with the inhibition of autophagy, which results in EEC dysfunction in AF. Our study demonstrated that the change in PLXND1 expression contributes to intracellular calcium dyshomeostasis, which inhibits autophagy flux and results in EEC dysfunction in AF. This study provides a potential intervention target for EEC dysfunction to prevent and treat intracardiac thrombosis in AF and its complications.
Genetic architecture behind developmental and seasonal control of tree growth and wood properties in Norway spruce
Authors: Chen Zhi-Qiang , Zan Yanjun , Zhou Linghua , Karlsson Bo , Tuominen Hannele , García-Gil Maria Rosario , Wu Harry X.
Published: August 2022

Genetic control of tree growth and wood formation varies depending on the age of the tree and the time of the year. Single-locus, multi-locus, and multi-trait genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were conducted on 34 growth and wood property traits in 1,303 Norway spruce individuals using exome capture to cover ~130K single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). GWAS identified associations to the different wood traits in a total of 85 gene models, and several of these were validated in a progenitor population. A multi-locus GWAS model identified more SNPs associated with the studied traits than single-locus or multivariate models. Changes in tree age and annual season influenced the genetic architecture of growth and wood properties in unique ways, manifested by non-overlapping SNP loci. In addition to completely novel candidate genes, SNPs were located in genes previously associated with wood formation, such as cellulose synthases and a NAC transcription factor, but that have not been earlier linked to seasonal or age-dependent regulation of wood properties. Interestingly, SNPs associated with the width of the year rings were identified in homologs of Arabidopsis thaliana BARELY ANY MERISTEM 1 and rice BIG GRAIN 1, which have been previously shown to control cell division and biomass production. The results provide tools for future Norway spruce breeding and functional studies.
The apple GARP family gene MdHHO3 regulates the nitrate response and leaf senescence
Authors: Wen Binbin , Gong Xingyao , Deng Wenpeng , Chen Xiude , Li Dongmei , Fu Xiling , Li Ling , Tan Qiuping
Published: August 2022

The regulation of plant gene expression by nitrate is a complex regulatory process. Here, we identified 90 GARP family genes in apples by genome-wide analysis. As a member of the GARP gene family, the expression of MdHHO3 (Malus domestica HYPERSENSITIVITY TO LOW PHOSPHATE-ELICITED PRIMARY ROOT SHORTENING1 HOMOLOG 3) is upregulated under N (nitrogen) supply. The results of DNA-binding site analysis and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) showed that MdHHO3 binds to the motif-containing GAATC. Furthermore, MdHHO3 binds to its promoter sequence and inhibits its activity. In addition, the overexpression of MdHHO3 in apple calli resulted in less accumulation of nitrate in 35S:MdHHO3-GFP calli and downregulated the expression of the nitrate transport-related genes but upregulated the expression of the nitrate assimilation-related genes. Similarly, the expression of the nitrate transport-related genes was downregulated and the expression of the nitrate assimilation-related genes was upregulated in MdHHO3 overexpression Arabidopsis and tobacco plants. Interaction experiments showed that MdHHO3 could bind to the promoter MdNRT2.1 (NITRATE TRANSPORTER 2.1) and negatively regulate its expression. Moreover, the exposure of MdHHO3-overexpressing Arabidopsis and tobacco to nitrate deficiency resulted in an early senescence phenotype as compared to the WT plants. These results show that MdHHO3 can not only negatively regulate nitrate accumulation in response to nitrate but also promote early leaf senescence under nitrate deficiency. This information may be useful to further reveal the mechanism of the nitrate response and demonstrates that nitrate deficiency induces leaf senescence in apples.
Network pharmacology analysis and experimental verification reveal the mechanism of the traditional Chinese medicine YU-Pingfeng San alleviating allergic rhinitis inflammatory responses
Authors: Liu Zhen , Sun Qi , Liu Xinyue , Song Zheying , Song Fei , Lu Congxian , Zhang Yu , Song Xicheng , Yang Yujuan , Li Yumei
Published: August 2022

YU-Pingfeng San (YPFS) can regulate inflammatory response to alleviate the symptoms of nasal congestion and runny rose in allergic rhinitis (AR). However, the mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, 30 active ingredients of three effective herbs included in YPFS and 140 AR/YPFS-related genes were identified by database analysis. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that the targets were mainly enriched in immune inflammatory-related biological processes and pathways. Finally, three hub gene targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1), and protein kinase B1 (AKT1) related to YPFS and AR were identified by network pharmacology analysis. YPFS treatment decreased the expression of EGFR, MAPK1, and AKT1 in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR mice and impaired the production of inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13, thus alleviating immunoglobulin E (IgE) production and the symptoms of scratching nose in AR. Through molecular docking analysis, we found that the active ingredients decursin, anomalin, and wogonin of YPFS could bind to EGFR, MAPK1, and AKT1 proteins. Moreover, decursin treatment impaired the expression of IL-4 and IL-5 in human PBMCs. These results suggested that YPFS could alleviate the AR inflammatory responses by targeting EGFR, MAPK1, and AKT1, showing the mechanism of action of YPFS in AR treatment.
Identification of AP2/ERF transcription factors in Tetrastigma hemsleyanum revealed the specific roles of ERF46 under cold stress
Authors: Xie Zhuomi , Yang Chuyun , Liu Siyi , Li Mingjie , Gu Li , Peng Xin , Zhang Zhongyi
Published: August 2022

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (T. hemsleyanum) is a traditional medicinal plant that is widely used in China. Cultivated T. hemsleyanum usually encounters cold stress, limiting its growth and quality at key developmental stages. APETALA2 (AP2)/ethylene-responsive factor (ERF) transcription factors (TFs) comprise one of the largest gene superfamilies in plants and are widely involved in biotic and abiotic stresses. To reveal the roles of AP2/ERF TFs during T. hemsleyanum development, 70 AP2/ERF TFs were identified in T. hemsleyanum. Among them, 18 and 2 TFs were classified into the AP2 and RAV families, respectively. The other 50 TFs belonged to the ERF family and were further divided into the ERF and (dehydration reaction element binding factor) DREB subfamilies. The ERF subfamily contained 46 TFs, while the DREB subfamily contained 4 TFs. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that AP2/ERF TFs could be classified into five groups, in which 10 conserved motifs were confirmed. Several motifs were group- or subgroup-specific, implying that they were significant for the functions of the AP2/ERF TFs of these clades. In addition, 70 AP2/ERF TFs from the five groups were used for an expression pattern analysis under three low-temperature levels, namely, –4, 0, and 4°C. The majority of these AP2/ERF TFs exhibited a positive response to cold stress conditions. Specifically, ThERF5, ThERF31, ThERF46, and ThERF55 demonstrated a more sensitive response to cold stress. Moreover, AP2/ERF TFs exhibited specific expression patterns under cold stress. Transient overexpression and RNA interference indicated that ThERF46 has a specific tolerance to cold stress. These new insights provide the basis for further studies on the roles of AP2/ERF TFs in cold stress tolerance in T. hemsleyanum.
Climate change effects on bread wheat phenology and grain quality: A case study in the north of Italy
Authors: Poggi Giovanni Maria , Aloisi Iris , Corneti Simona , Esposito Erika , Naldi Marina , Fiori Jessica , Piana Stefano , Ventura Francesca
Published: August 2022

Increasing temperatures, heat waves, and reduction of annual precipitation are all the expressions of climate change (CC), strongly affecting bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain yield in Southern Europe. Being temperature the major driving force of plants’ phenological development, these variations also have effects on wheat phenology, with possible consequences on grain quality, and gluten protein accumulation. Here, through a case study in the Bolognese Plain (North of Italy), we assessed the effects of CC in the area, the impacts on bread wheat phenological development, and the consequences on grain gluten quality. The increasing trend in mean annual air temperature in the area since 1952 was significant, with a breakpoint identified in 1989, rising from 12.7 to 14.1°C, accompanied by the signals of increasing aridity, i.e., increase in water table depth. Bread wheat phenological development was compared in two 15-year periods before and after the breakpoint, i.e., 1952–1966 (past period), and 2006–2020 (present period), the latest characterized by aridity and increased temperatures. A significant shortening of the chronological time necessary to reach the main phenological phases was observed for the present period compared to the past period, finally shortening the whole life cycle. This reduction, as well as the higher temperature regime, affected gluten accumulation during the grain-filling process, as emerged analyzing gluten composition in grain samples of the same variety harvested in the area both before and after the breakpoint in temperature. In particular, the proportion of gluten polymers (i.e., gliadins, high and low molecular weight glutenins, and their ratio) showed a strong and significant correlation with cumulative growing degree days (CGDDs) accumulated during the grain filling. Higher CGDD values during the period, typical of CC in Southern Europe, accounting for higher temperature and faster grain filling, correlated with gliadins, high molecular weight glutenins, and their proportion with low molecular weight glutenins. In summary, herein reported, data might contribute to assessing the effects of CC on wheat phenology and quality, representing a tool for both predictive purposes and decision supporting systems for farmers, as well as can guide future breeding choices for varietal innovation.
Fast and precise detection of litchi fruits for yield estimation based on the improved YOLOv5 model
Authors: Wang Lele , Zhao Yingjie , Xiong Zhangjun , Wang Shizhou , Li Yuanhong , Lan Yubin
Published: August 2022

The fast and precise detection of dense litchi fruits and the determination of their maturity is of great practical significance for yield estimation in litchi orchards and robot harvesting. Factors such as complex growth environment, dense distribution, and random occlusion by leaves, branches, and other litchi fruits easily cause the predicted output based on computer vision deviate from the actual value. This study proposed a fast and precise litchi fruit detection method and application software based on an improved You Only Look Once version 5 (YOLOv5) model, which can be used for the detection and yield estimation of litchi in orchards. First, a dataset of litchi with different maturity levels was established. Second, the YOLOv5s model was chosen as a base version of the improved model. ShuffleNet v2 was used as the improved backbone network, and then the backbone network was fine-tuned to simplify the model structure. In the feature fusion stage, the CBAM module was introduced to further refine litchi’s effective feature information. Considering the characteristics of the small size of dense litchi fruits, the 1,280 × 1,280 was used as the improved model input size while we optimized the network structure. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, we performed ablation experiments and compared it with other models on the test set. The results showed that the improved model’s mean average precision (mAP) presented a 3.5% improvement and 62.77% compression in model size compared with the original model. The improved model size is 5.1 MB, and the frame per second (FPS) is 78.13 frames/s at a confidence of 0.5. The model performs well in precision and robustness in different scenarios. In addition, we developed an Android application for litchi counting and yield estimation based on the improved model. It is known from the experiment that the correlation coefficient R2 between the application test and the actual results was 0.9879. In summary, our improved method achieves high precision, lightweight, and fast detection performance at large scales. The method can provide technical means for portable yield estimation and visual recognition of litchi harvesting robots.
The benefits of learning movement sequences in social interactions
Authors: Nahardiya Guy , Markus Andrey , Bennet Rotem , Shamay-Tsoory Simone G.
Published: August 2022

Although we frequently acquire knowledge and skills through social interactions, the focus of most research on learning is on individual learning. Here we characterize Interaction Based Learning (IBL), which represents the acquisition of knowledge or skill through social interactions, and compare it to Observational Learning (OL)—learning by observation. To that end, we designed a movement synchronization paradigm whereby participants learned Tai-Chi inspired movement sequences from trained teachers in two separated sessions. We used a motion capture system to track the movement of 40 dyads comprised of a teacher and learner, who were randomly divided into OL or IBL groups, and calculated time-varying synchrony of three-dimensional movement velocity. While in the IBL group both the learner and the teacher could see each other through a transparent glass, in the OL group dyads interacted through a one-way mirror, such that the learners observed the teacher, but the teacher could not see the learners. Results show that although the number of movements recalled was not different between groups, we found improved movement smoothness in the IBL compared to the OL group, indicating movement acquisition was better in the IBL group. In addition, we found that motor synchronization levels in dyads improved over time, indicating that movement synchronization can be learned and retained. In the first session, the IBL group, but not the OL group, showed a significant improvement in synchronization. This suggests that dyadic interaction is important for learning movement sequences, and that bidirectional communication of signals and mutual feedback are essential for the consolidation of motor learning.
Coming back home to start up a business? A comparison between youth from rural and urban backgrounds in China
Authors: Yuan Chih-Hung , Wang Dajiang , Hong Lihua , Zou Yehui , Wen Jiayu
Published: August 2022

Youth entrepreneurship is regarded as an important part of rural revitalization. Against the backdrop of the rural revitalization strategy, the Chinese government has introduced many policies to encourage return-home entrepreneurship among young people. However, highly educated youth have a lower willingness to return home for entrepreneurship, and prefer urban entrepreneurship or getting a job in a city. Therefore, this study used a two-stage approach to explore the factors that influence young people’s contribution to the development of their homeland, the barriers they face, and the support mechanisms they need. The study found that many barriers affect young people’s intention to return home for entrepreneurship. In rural areas, young people consider lagging environmental development to be the biggest barrier. In urban areas, infrastructure, lack of entrepreneurial experience, and funding are the factors that concern young people the most. As they have limited entrepreneurial experience, young people in both rural and urban areas have a high demand for shared entrepreneurial experience, as well as entrepreneurship courses and mentoring. The government and universities should remove the barriers faced by young people, provide more assistance, improve the environment for young people engaging in return-home entrepreneurship, and form a good entrepreneurial ecology.
Dynamic development of syntactic complexity in second language writing: A longitudinal case study of a young Chinese EFL learner
Authors: Wang Zhihong
Published: August 2022

The present study analyzes the English diaries written by a young Chinese English as a foreign language (EFL) learner over a 1-year period in an attempt to determine the developmental process of Chinese EFL young learners’ written language in terms of syntactic complexity. This study aimed to use a wide range of metrics to explore densely collected data based on Dynamic Systems Theory. The longitudinal study data were analyzed through eight large-grained measures related to sentential, clausal, and phrasal features by using L2 Syntactic Complexity Analyzer, as well as fine-grained measures related to seven modifiers, an adjective placed before a noun, ordinal numerals are indicated (ADJA), cardinal numeral (CARD), predicative adjective, adverbial adjective (ADJP), adverbs (ADV), prepositional phrases (PREP), subordinate (SUB), and relative clause (REL), through manual annotations. The results show that, first, the developmental process was not linear but spiral in terms of large-grained measures. The sentential level varied, and the development process of the young learner is different from Chinese English learners studying in colleges. Second, the dynamic features of fine-grained measures are also prominent in the seven indicators. ADJA, PREP, and REL showed a steady increase, ADJP showed an obvious decline, while ADV and SUB first increased and then declined. Third, the correlation analysis revealed a competitive interaction within fine-grained measures and between large-grained and fine-grained measures.
Panda Unit, a Mother-Baby Unit Nested in a Neonatal Care Service
Authors: Vitte Lisa , Hauguel Cyriaque , Benoit Vincent , Genet Marie-Camille , Letot Jessica , Bruel Henri , Delaunay Florian , Le Roux Pascal , Gerardin Priscille , Devouche Emmanuel , Apter Gisèle
Published: August 2022

The PANDA unit is a full-time mother-baby hospitalization unit based on an original model of care for vulnerable dyads. It is located within a neonatal unit allowing tripartite care (perinatal psychiatry, neonatology and post-natal care). It thus differs from traditional mother-baby units in its close links with the other perinatal care actors, allowing comprehensive health and mental health care in the immediate post-partum period. Patients admitted to the Panda Unit may have been referred during the antenatal period or taken into care in an emergency if the mother's clinical condition requires it, in the aftermath of childbirth. During their stay, the dyads are evaluated daily by a perinatal psychiatrist. This includes assessment of maternal clinical state, the newborn's development and the quality of mother-infant interactions. During the first 6 months of use, 24 dyads have benefited from PANDA care. Three women among 5 were admitted during the antenatal period and almost one-third were aged under 21. The first primary diagnosis during the antepartum was major depressive disorder, two-fold that of personality disorder or bipolar disorder alone. At the end of PANDA stay, close to 3 women among 4 were back to their home with their child, and an out-of-home placement was mandated for 4 infants. PANDA unit is a step toward continuous and comprehensive integrative care. The mother and baby do not leave the maternity ward, and management of mother, baby, and their interactions can start immediately after birth. Considering the importance of the first months of life in the establishment of fundamental links and bonding, PANDA offers an innovative opportunity for what we hope will be both therapeutic and preventive for at-risk dyads. The detection, and ultimately prevention and management of risk of abuse and neglect is another major challenge that this unit hopes to address from the very beginning.
Analysis of students' positive emotions around the green space in the university campus during the COVID-19 pandemic in China
Authors: Liu Shaobo , Ji Yifeng , Li Jiang , Peng You , Li Zhitao , Lai Wenbo , Feng Tao
Published: August 2022

Green space around the university campus is of paramount importance for emotional and psychological restorations in students. Positive emotions in students can be aroused when immersed in green space and naturalness. However, to what extent can perceived naturalness influence students' positive emotion remains unclear, especially in the context of COVID-19 countermeasures. This study, therefore, attempts to investigate in-depth the nature and strength of the relationships between students' positive emotion and their perceived naturalness, place attachment, and landscape preference, which are potentially varying across universities in different social and environmental contexts and different restrictions policies regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. A course of questionnaire-based surveys was administered on two university campuses in Heilongjiang and Hunan Provinces, China, resulting in 474 effective samples. Structural equation modeling was used to explore the hypothetical conceptual framework of latent variables and the indicators. The findings indicate that the higher students' perceived naturalness results in greater positive emotion. Students' perceived naturalness in green spaces of campus has a positive effect on their place attachment and landscape preference. Moreover, the difference between mediate effects of place attachment and landscape preference were addressed, which verifies the contextual influences.
Policy choices for Shanghai responding to challenges of Omicron
Authors: Qian Ying , Cao Siqi , Zhao Laijun , Yan Yuge , Huang Jiaoling
Published: August 2022

Background

A new wave of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection driven by Omicron BA.2 subvariant hit Shanghai end of February 2020. With higher transmissibility and milder symptoms, the daily new confirmed cases have soared to more than 20 K within one and a half months. The greatest challenge of Omicron spreading is that the rapidly surging number of infected populations overwhelming the healthcare system. What policy is effective for huge cities to fight against fast-spreading COVID-19 new variant remains a question.

Methods

A system dynamics model of the Shanghai Omicron epidemic was developed as an extension of the traditional susceptible-exposed-infected-susceptible recovered (SEIR) model to incorporate the policies, such as contact tracing and quarantine, COVID-19 testing, isolation of areas concerned, and vaccination. Epidemic data from Shanghai Municipal Health Commission were collected for model validation.

Results

Three policies were tested with the model: COVID-19 testing, isolation of areas concerned, and vaccination. Maintaining a high level of COVID-19 testing and transfer rate of the infected population can prevent the number of daily new confirmed cases from recurring growth. In the scenario that 50% of the infected population could be transferred for quarantine on daily bases, the daily confirmed asymptomatic cases and symptomatic cases remained at a low level under 100. For isolation of areas concerned, in the scenario with most isolation scope, the peak of daily confirmed asymptomatic and symptomatic cases dropped 18 and 16%, respectively, compared with that in the scenario with least isolation. Regarding vaccination, increasing the vaccination rate from 75 to 95% only slightly reduced the peak of the confirmed cases, but it can reduce the severe cases and death by 170%.

Conclusions

The effective policies for Omicron include high level of testing capacity with a combination of RAT and PCR testing to identify and quarantine the infected cases, especially the asymptomatic cases. Immediate home-isolation and fast transfer to centralized quarantine location could help control the spread of the virus. Moreover, to promote the vaccination in vulnerable population could significantly reduce the severe cases and death. These policies could be applicable to all metropolises with huge population facing high transmissible low severity epidemic.
Benefits of active life in student experiences during COVID-19 pandemic time
Authors: Pišot Saša , Milovanović Ivana M. , Katović Darko , Bartoluci Sunčica , Radenović Sandra S.
Published: August 2022

The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to extreme global consequences. In this paper, changes in the basic segments of students' everyday life and their subjective perception are investigated. The research was conducted in Croatia, Serbia and Slovenia. The application of the mixed method was performed to provide breadth and depth of understanding of students' responses to lifestyle changes. The research was conducted in two phases: a quantitative, using an online survey (N = 1,053), from April 15th to April 28th 2020, and a qualitative, using semi-structured interviews (N = 30), from June 10th to July 27th 2020. Students showed similar responses to the measures, but it turned out that the response in that population was different when their gender and study program were taken into account. The results suggest that students of study programs that are not “health-related” were more sensitive to change in habits than students of “health-related” study programs, but generally changes are visible in sleep patterns (going to bed late and waking up 60 to 80 min earlier). At the same time, the time spent in front of screens increased, from M = 4.49 (SD = 2.72) hours to M= 8.27 (SD = 3.44) hours during Covid-19, not only due to the transition to e-learning, but also due to a “stay at home” measure. Furthermore, students were less physically active, there was a decrease in exercise by 20 min (SD = 86.52) and a decrease in walking (M = 54 min, SD = 103.62) per day, and what is positive is that they were able to maintain the recommended amount of physical activity. The research contributes to the understanding of social consequences of extraordinary measures in students as young, healthy and highly educated social actors, as well as deeper insight into everyday strategies they undertake to counter or adapt to the new situation.