bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prior viral infection primes cross-reactive CD8+ T cells that respond to mouse heart allografts
Authors: Khorki M. Eyad , Shi Tiffany , Cianciolo Eileen E. , Burg Ashley R. , Chukwuma P. Chukwunalu , Picarsic Jennifer L. , Morrice Mary K. , Woodle E. Steve , Maltzman Jonathan S. , Ferguson Autumn , Katz Jonathan D. , Baker Brian M. , Hildeman David A.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Significant evidence suggests a connection between transplant rejection and the presence of high levels of pre-existing memory T cells. Viral infection can elicit viral-specific memory T cells that cross-react with allo-MHC capable of driving allograft rejection in mice. Despite these advances, and despite their critical role in transplant rejection, a systematic study of allo-reactive memory T cells, their specificities, and the role of cross-reactivity with viral antigens has not been performed.

Methods

Here, we established a model to identify, isolate, and characterize cross-reactive T cells using Nur77 reporter mice (C57BL/6 background), which transiently express GFP exclusively upon TCR engagement. We infected Nur77 mice with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV-Armstrong) to generate a robust memory compartment, where quiescent LCMV-specific memory CD8+ T cells could be readily tracked with MHC tetramer staining. Then, we transplanted LCMV immune mice with allogeneic hearts and monitored expression of GFP within MHC-tetramer defined viral-specific T cells as an indicator of their ability to cross-react with alloantigens.

Results

Strikingly, prior LCMV infection significantly increased the kinetics and magnitude of rejection as well as CD8+ T cell recruitment into allogeneic, but not syngeneic, transplanted hearts, relative to non-infected controls. Interestingly, as early as day 1 after allogeneic heart transplant an average of ~8% of MHC-tetramer+ CD8+ T cells expressed GFP, in contrast to syngeneic heart transplants, where the frequency of viral-specific CD8+ T cells that were GFP+ was <1%. These data show that a significant percentage of viral-specific memory CD8+ T cells expressed T cell receptors that also recognized alloantigens in vivo. Notably, the frequency of cross-reactive CD8+ T cells differed depending upon the viral epitope. Further, TCR sequences derived from cross-reactive T cells harbored distinctive motifs that may provide insight into cross-reactivity and allo-specificity.

Discussion

In sum, we have established a mouse model to track viral-specific, allo-specific, and cross-reactive T cells; revealing that prior infection elicits substantial numbers of viral-specific T cells that cross-react to alloantigen, respond very early after transplant, and may promote rapid rejection.
Cellular and transcriptome signatures unveiled by single-cell RNA-Seq following ex vivo infection of murine splenocytes with Borrelia burgdorferi
Authors: Kumaresan Venkatesh , Ingle Taylor MacMackin , Kilgore Nathan , Zhang Guoquan , Hermann Brian P. , Seshu Janakiram
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne infectious disease in the US, is caused by a spirochetal pathogen Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb). Distinct host responses are observed in susceptible and resistant strains of inbred of mice following infection with Bb reflecting a subset of inflammatory responses observed in human Lyme disease. The advent of post-genomic methodologies and genomic data sets enables dissecting the host responses to advance therapeutic options for limiting the pathogen transmission and/or treatment of Lyme disease.

Methods

In this study, we used single-cell RNA-Seq analysis in conjunction with mouse genomics exploiting GFP-expressing Bb to sort GFP+ splenocytes and GFP− bystander cells to uncover novel molecular and cellular signatures that contribute to early stages of immune responses against Bb.

Results

These data decoded the heterogeneity of splenic neutrophils, macrophages, NK cells, B cells, and T cells in C3H/HeN mice in response to Bb infection. Increased mRNA abundance of apoptosis-related genes was observed in neutrophils and macrophages clustered from GFP+ splenocytes. Moreover, complement-mediated phagocytosis-related genes such as C1q and Ficolin were elevated in an inflammatory macrophage subset, suggesting upregulation of these genes during the interaction of macrophages with Bb-infected neutrophils. In addition, the role of DUSP1 in regulating the expression of Casp3 and pro-inflammatory cytokines Cxcl1, Cxcl2, Il1b, and Ccl5 in Bb-infected neutrophils were identified.

Discussion

These findings serve as a growing catalog of cell phenotypes/biomarkers among murine splenocytes that can be exploited for limiting spirochetal burden to limit the transmission of the agent of Lyme disease to humans via reservoir hosts.
Design of a novel multi-epitopes vaccine against Escherichia fergusonii: a pan-proteome based in- silico approach
Authors: Almanaa Taghreed N.
Published: December 2023

Escherichia fergusonii a gram-negative rod-shaped bacterium in the Enterobacteriaceae family, infect humans, causing serious illnesses such as urinary tract infection, cystitis, biliary tract infection, pneumonia, meningitis, hemolytic uremic syndrome, and death. Initially treatable with penicillin, antibiotic misuse led to evolving resistance, including resistance to colistin, a last-resort drug. With no licensed vaccine, the study aimed to design a multi-epitope vaccine against E. fergusonii. The study started with the retrieval of the complete proteome of all known strains and proceeded to filter the surface exposed virulent proteins. Seventeen virulent proteins (4 extracellular, 4 outer membranes, 9 periplasmic) with desirable physicochemical properties were identified from the complete proteome of known strains. Further, these proteins were processed for B-cell and T-cell epitope mapping. Obtained epitopes were evaluated for antigenicity, allergenicity, solubility, MHC-binding, and toxicity and the filtered epitopes were fused by specific linkers and an adjuvant into a vaccine construct. Structure of the vaccine candidate was predicted and refined resulting in 78.1% amino acids in allowed regions and VERIFY3D score of 81%. Vaccine construct was docked with TLR-4, MHC-I, and MHC-II, showing binding energies of -1040.8 kcal/mol, -871.4 kcal/mol, and -1154.6 kcal/mol and maximum interactions. Further, molecular dynamic simulation of the docked complexes was carried out resulting in a significant stable nature of the docked complexes (high B-factor and deformability values, lower Eigen and high variance values) in terms of intermolecular binding conformation and interactions. The vaccine was also reported to stimulate a variety of immunological pathways after administration. In short, the designed vaccine revealed promising predictions about its immune protective potential against E. fergusonii infections however experimental validation is needed to validate the results.
Variability in the effects of bilingualism on task switching of cognitively healthy and cognitively impaired older bilinguals
Authors: Chen Hui-Ching , Yow W. Quin
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The impact of bilingualism on executive function has been extensively discussed, but inconsistent evidence has been reported. These discrepancies may stem from the complexities of being bilingual and the various ways of measuring bilingual experiences. This study aims to clarify the debate by providing a systematic critique and analysis on how different measurements of bilingualism can lead to different results within the same group of bilinguals.

Methods

We tested 48 cognitively healthy (CH) and 43 cognitively impaired (CI) older adults (Mage = 73.25 and 79.72 years, respectively) using the color-shape switching task. We assessed bilingualism using six different methods based on dominant language usage: five categorical computations and one continuous measurement.

Results and discussion

The results varied depending on the method of measuring bilingualism and the participant group. For CH older adults, a significant effect of bilingualism on cognition performance was observed only when using the categorical variable based on a cutoff of 70% dominant language usage, but not with other categorical computations or the continuous approach. For CI older adults, no effect of bilingualism was found, regardless of the type of measurement used. In summary, our results demonstrated that different measurements of language use can yield different results within the same group of bilinguals using a single task. Our study yielded important implications for bilingual research: the findings challenge the current methodologies used to describe bilingual experiences and call for care and consideration of context and the complexity when examining the effects of bilingual experience on executive functions.
A comparative systematic review and meta-analysis on the diagnostic accuracy of non-invasive tests for Helicobacter pylori detection in elderly patients
Authors: Omar Mahmud , Abu-Salah Razi , Agbareia Reem , Sharif Yusra , Levin Roni , Lahat Adi , Sharif Kassem
Published: December 2023

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a type I carcinogen, affects approximately 50% of the global population, correlating with various gastric pathologies. Notably, diagnostic sensitivities of non-invasive methods, such as the stool antigen test (HpSA), Serology, and Urea Breath Test (UBT), have been suggested to be less effective in older age groups. This study systematically reviews and meta-analyzes the diagnostic accuracy of these tests within the elderly population.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases, including PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science, up to July 2023. Data were pooled and analyzed using random-effects models. Sensitivity, specificity, and Diagnostic Odds Ratios (DOR) were computed for the tests. Heterogeneity and risk of bias were assessed.

Results

Eight studies involving diverse geographic locations and totaling between 46 and 1,441 participants per study were included. The pooled sensitivity and specificity for HpSA were 72.5 and 94.7%, for Serology 83.7 and 73.3%, and for UBT 96.4 and 88.3%, respectively. DOR for UBT, HpSA, and Serology were 94.5, 47.9, and 14.2, respectively. High levels of heterogeneity were observed across the studies.

Conclusion

UBT and HpSA proved effective for diagnosing H. pylori in those over 60, while serology showed lower specificity. Despite methodological variations in available studies, these non-invasive tests offer reliable alternatives, especially for older patients who recently undergone endoscopy or without an indication for it, warranting consideration by healthcare practitioners.
API5-Hsp20 axis regulate apoptosis and viral infection in mud crab (Scylla paramamosain)
Authors: Hu Hang , Deng Nan , Zhao Xinshan , Yi Cheng , Wei Weiqian , Gong Yi
Published: December 2023

Apoptosis Inhibitor 5 (API5) is a widely concerned nuclear protein with diverse functions in organisms, so far, study of API5 is still quite limited in lower animals, and its role in viral immune response has not been addressed. Here, we explored the function of API5 in mud crab (Scylla paramamosain) during White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) infection. The interacting protein Hsp20 of API5 was screened by pull-down assay, and API5 and hsp20 were knocked down by RNAi interference. The results showed that API5 was upregulated along with virus infection, silencing of API5 led to increased WSSV copy numbers and apoptotic rate of hemocytes, highlighting its significance in the immune response. Moreover, we discovered a novel interaction between API5 and Heat Shock Protein 20 (Hsp20), and then revealed that Hsp20 could promote cell apoptosis of hemocytes and reduce viral copy numbers by suppressing API5. The current study therefore improves the knowledge of API5-Hsp20 axis and provides novel insights into intricate mechanisms governing the antiviral response in marine crustaceans.
Physiotherapy case reports on three people with progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Mateus Mariana , Castro Caldas Alexandre
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative brain disease that affects patient’s functionality and quality of life. Physiotherapy should be recommended at the time of diagnosis to slow the progression of disability and enhance the quality of life of these patients.

Clinical presentation

Here, we describe three cases of patients with PSP, outlining their motor and non-motor symptoms and examining their clinical progression with physiotherapy intervention. During the initial intervention years, a reduction in the number of falls was achieved, along with improvements in gait and balance.

Conclusion

Exercise and physiotherapy appear to be beneficial for patients with PSP by enhancing their functionality and quality of life. Controlling or reducing the number of falls should be the primary goal of any intervention for patients with PSP.
Mice prone to tinnitus after acoustic trauma show increased pre-exposure sensitivity to background noise
Authors: Rybalko Natalia , Suchánková Štěpánka , Bureš Zbyněk , Jovanović Nataša , Melichar Adolf , Profant Oliver , Tureček Rostislav
Published: December 2023

Noise-induced tinnitus is generally associated with hearing impairment caused by traumatic acoustic overexposure. Previous studies in laboratory animals and human subjects, however, have observed differences in tinnitus susceptibility, even among individuals with similar hearing loss. The mechanisms underlying increased sensitivity or, conversely, resistance to tinnitus are still incompletely understood. Here, we used behavioral tests and ABR audiometry to compare the sound-evoked responses of mice that differed in the presence of noise-induced tinnitus. The aim was to find a specific pre-exposure neurophysiological marker that would predict the development of tinnitus after acoustic trauma. Noise-exposed mice were screened for tinnitus-like behavior with the GPIAS paradigm and subsequently divided into tinnitus (+T) and non-tinnitus (−T) groups. Both groups showed hearing loss after exposure, manifested by elevated audiometric thresholds along with reduced amplitudes and prolonged latencies of ABR waves. Prior to exposure, except for a slightly increased slope of growth function for ABR amplitudes in +T mice, the two groups did not show significant audiometric differences. Behavioral measures, such as the magnitude of the acoustic startle response and its inhibition by gap pre-pulse, were also similar before exposure in both groups. However, +T mice showed significantly increased suppression of the acoustic startle response in the presence of background noise of moderate intensity. Thus, increased modulation of startle by background sounds may represent a behavioral correlate of susceptibility to noise-induced tinnitus, and its measurement may form the basis of a simple non-invasive method for predicting tinnitus development in laboratory rodents.
Integrating fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation and functional connectivity to investigate the mechanism and prognosis of severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Li Biao , Li Wu-gen , Guo Yao , Wang Yang , Xu Lu-yang , Yang Yuan , Xu Shi-guo , Tan Zi-long , Mei Yu-ran , Wang Kai-yang
Published: December 2023

Objective

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been used for evaluating residual brain function and predicting the prognosis of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI). This study aimed to integrate the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and functional connectivity (FC) to investigate the mechanism and prognosis of patients with sTBI.

Methods

Sixty-five patients with sTBI were included and underwent fMRI scanning within 14 days after brain injury. The patient’s outcome was assessed using the Glasgow Outcome Scale—Extended (GOSE) at 6 months post-injury. Of the 63 patients who met fMRI data analysis standards, the prognosis of 18 patients was good (GOSE scores ≥ 5), and the prognosis of 45 patients was poor (GOSE scores ≤  4). First, we apply fALFF to identify residual brain functional differences in patients who present different prognoses and conjoined it in regions of interest (ROI)-based FC analysis to investigate the residual brain function of sTBI at the acute phase of sTBI. Then, the area under the curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the predictive ability of the brain regions with the difference of fALFF and FC values.

Results

Patients who present good outcomes at 6 months post-injury have increased fALFF values in the Brodmann area (7, 18, 31, 13, 39 40, 42, 19, 23) and decreased FC values in the Brodmann area (28, 34, 35, 36, 20, 28, 34, 35, 36, 38, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 13, 40, 41, 43, 44, 20, 28 35, 36, 38) at the acute phase of sTBI. The parameters of these alterations can be used for predicting the long-term outcomes of patients with sTBI, of which the fALFF increase in the temporal lobe, occipital lobe, precuneus, and middle temporal gyrus showed the highest predictive ability (AUC = 0.883).

Conclusion

We provide a compensatory mechanism that several regions of the brain can be spontaneously activated at the acute phase of sTBI in those who present with a good prognosis in the 6-month follow-up, that is, a destructive mode that increases its fALFF in the local regions and weakens its FC to the whole brain. These findings provide a theoretical basis for developing early intervention targets for sTBI patients.
Sharp detection of oscillation packets in rich time-frequency representations of neural signals
Authors: Ardelean Eugen-Richard , Bârzan Harald , Ichim Ana-Maria , Mureşan Raul Cristian , Moca Vasile Vlad
Published: December 2023

Brain oscillations most often occur in bursts, called oscillation packets, which span a finite extent in time and frequency. Recent studies have shown that these packets portray a much more dynamic picture of synchronization and transient communication between sites than previously thought. To understand their nature and statistical properties, techniques are needed to objectively detect oscillation packets and to quantify their temporal and frequency extent, as well as their magnitude. There are various methods to detect bursts of oscillations. The simplest ones divide the signal into band limited sub-components, quantifying the strength of the resulting components. These methods cannot by themselves cope with broadband transients that look like genuine oscillations when restricted to a narrow band. The most successful detection methods rely on time-frequency representations, which can readily show broadband transients and harmonics. However, the performance of such methods is conditioned by the ability of the representation to localize packets simultaneously in time and frequency, and by the capabilities of packet detection techniques, whose current state of the art is limited to extraction of bounding boxes. Here, we focus on the second problem, introducing two detection methods that use concepts derived from clustering and topographic prominence. These methods are able to delineate the packets’ precise contour in the time-frequency plane. We validate the new approaches using both synthetic and real data recorded in humans and animals and rely on a super-resolution time-frequency representation, namely the superlets, as input to the detection algorithms. In addition, we define robust tests for benchmarking and compare the new methods to previous techniques. Results indicate that the two methods we introduce shine in low signal-to-noise ratio conditions, where they only miss a fraction of packets undetected by previous methods. Finally, algorithms that delineate precisely the border of spectral features and their subcomponents offer far more valuable information than simple rectangular bounding boxes (time and frequency span) and can provide a solid foundation to investigate neural oscillations’ dynamics.
GIPC1 regulates MACC1-driven metastasis
Authors: Siegel Franziska , Schmidt Hannes , Juneja Manisha , Smith Janice , Herrmann Pia , Kobelt Dennis , Sharma Kamal , Fichtner Iduna , Walther Wolfgang , Dittmar Gunnar , Volkmer Rudolf , Rathjen Fritz G. , Schlag Peter M. , Stein Ulrike
Published: December 2023

Background

Identification of cancer metastasis-relevant molecular networks is desired to provide the basis for understanding and developing intervention strategies. Here we address the role of GIPC1 in the process of MACC1-driven metastasis. MACC1 is a prognostic indicator for patient metastasis formation and metastasis-free survival. MACC1 controls gene transcription, promotes motility, invasion and proliferation of colon cancer cells in vitro, and causes tumor growth and metastasis in mice.

Methods

By using yeast-two-hybrid assay, mass spectrometry, co-immunoprecipitation and peptide array we analyzed GIPC1 protein binding partners, by using the MACC1 gene promoter and chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assay we probed for GIPC1 as transcription factor. We employed GIPC1/MACC1-manipulated cell lines for in vitro and in vivo analyses, and we probed the GIPC1/MACC1 impact using human primary colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue.

Results

We identified MACC1 and its paralogue SH3BP4 as protein binding partners of the protein GIPC1, and we also demonstrated the binding of GIPC1 as transcription factor to the MACC1 promoter (TSS to -60 bp). GIPC1 knockdown reduced endogenous, but not CMV promoter-driven MACC1 expression, and diminished MACC1-induced cell migration and invasion. GIPC1 suppression reduced tumor growth and metastasis in mice intrasplenically transplanted with MACC1-overexpressing CRC cells. In human primary CRC specimens, GIPC1 correlates with MACC1 expression and is of prognostic value for metastasis formation and metastasis-free survival. Combination of MACC1 and GIPC1 expression improved patient survival prognosis, whereas SH3BP4 expression did not show any prognostic value.

Conclusions

We identified an important, dual function of GIPC1 - as protein interaction partner and as transcription factor of MACC1 – for tumor progression and cancer metastasis.
Interferon gamma immunoPET imaging to evaluate response to immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Hackett Justin B. , Ramos Nicholas , Barr Stephen , Bross Madeline , Viola Nerissa T. , Gibson Heather M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

We previously developed a 89Zr-labeled antibody-based immuno-positron emission tomography (immunoPET) tracer targeting interferon gamma (IFNγ), a cytokine produced predominantly by activated T and natural killer (NK) cells during pathogen clearance, anti-tumor immunity, and various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. The current study investigated [89Zr]Zr-DFO-anti-IFNγ PET as a method to monitor response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).

Methods

BALB/c mice bearing CT26 colorectal tumors were treated with combined ICI (anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and anti-programmed death 1 (PD-1)). The [89Zr]Zr-DFO-anti-IFNγ PET tracer, generated with antibody clone AN18, was administered on the day of the second ICI treatment, with PET imaging 72 hours later. Tumor mRNA was analyzed by quantitative reverse-transcribed PCR (qRT-PCR).

Results

We detected significantly higher intratumoral localization of [89Zr]Zr-DFO-anti-IFNγ in ICI-treated mice compared to untreated controls, while uptake of an isotype control tracer remained similar between treated and untreated mice. Interestingly, [89Zr]Zr-DFO-anti-IFNγ uptake was also elevated relative to the isotype control in untreated mice, suggesting that the IFNγ-specific tracer might be able to detect underlying immune activity in situ in this immunogenic model. In an efficacy experiment, a significant inverse correlation between tracer uptake and tumor burden was also observed. Because antibodies to cytokines often exhibit neutralizing effects which might alter cellular communication within the tumor microenvironment, we also evaluated the impact of AN18 on downstream IFNγ signaling and ICI outcomes. Tumor transcript analysis using interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) expression as a readout of IFNγ signaling suggested there may be a marginal disruption of this pathway. However, compared to a 250 µg dose known to neutralize IFNγ, which diminished ICI efficacy, a tracer-equivalent 50 µg dose did not reduce ICI response rates.

Discussion

These results support the use of IFNγ PET as a method to monitor immune activity in situ after ICI, which may also extend to additional T cell-activating immunotherapies.
Epigenetic targeting of autophagy for cancer: DNA and RNA methylation
Authors: Lin Luobin , Zhao Yuntao , Zheng Qinzhou , Zhang Jiayang , Li Huaqin , Wu Wenmei
Published: December 2023

Autophagy, a crucial cellular mechanism responsible for degradation and recycling of intracellular components, is modulated by an intricate network of molecular signals. Its paradoxical involvement in oncogenesis, acting as both a tumor suppressor and promoter, has been underscored in recent studies. Central to this regulatory network are the epigenetic modifications of DNA and RNA methylation, notably the presence of N6-methyldeoxyadenosine (6mA) in genomic DNA and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in eukaryotic mRNA. The 6mA modification in genomic DNA adds an extra dimension of epigenetic regulation, potentially impacting the transcriptional dynamics of genes linked to autophagy and, especially, cancer. Conversely, m6A modification, governed by methyltransferases and demethylases, influences mRNA stability, processing, and translation, affecting genes central to autophagic pathways. As we delve deeper into the complexities of autophagy regulation, the importance of these methylation modifications grows more evident. The interplay of 6mA, m6A, and autophagy points to a layered regulatory mechanism, illuminating cellular reactions to a range of conditions. This review delves into the nexus between DNA 6mA and RNA m6A methylation and their influence on autophagy in cancer contexts. By closely examining these epigenetic markers, we underscore their promise as therapeutic avenues, suggesting novel approaches for cancer intervention through autophagy modulation.
Correlation of bioactive marker compounds of an orally applied Morus alba root bark extract with toxicity and efficacy in BALB/c mice
Authors: Langeder Julia , Koch Mirijam , Schmietendorf Hannes , Tahir Ammar , Grienke Ulrike , Rollinger Judith M. , Schmidtke Michaela
Published: December 2023

Introduction: In traditional Chinese medicine, the root bark of Morus alba L. is used to treat respiratory infections. Recently, anti-inflammatory and multiple anti-infective activities (against influenza viruses, corona virus 2, S. aureus, and S. pneumoniae) were shown in vitro for a standardized root bark extract from M. alba (MA60). Sanggenons C and D were identified as major active constituents of MA60. The aim of the present preclinical study was to evaluate, whether these findings are transferable to an in vivo setting.

Methods: MA60 was orally administered to female BALB/c mice to determine 1) the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in an acute toxicity study and 2) its anti-influenza virus and anti-inflammatory effects in an efficacy study. A further aim was to evaluate whether there is a correlation between the obtained results and the amount of sanggenons C and D in serum and tissues. For the quantitation of the marker compounds sanggenons C and D in serum and tissue samples an UPLC-ESI-MS method was developed and validated.

Results: In our study setting, the MTD was reached at 100 mg/kg. In the efficacy study, the treatment effects were moderate. Dose-dependent quantities of sanggenon C in serum and sanggenon D in liver samples were detected. Only very low concentrations of sanggenons C and D were determined in lung samples and none of these compounds was found in spleen samples. There was no compound accumulation when MA60 was administered repeatedly.

Discussion: The herein determined low serum concentration after oral application once daily encourages the use of an alternative application route like intravenous, inhalation or intranasal administration and/or multiple dosing in further trials. The established method for the quantitation of the marker sanggenon compounds in tissue samples serves as a basis to determine pharmacokinetic parameters such as their bioavailability in future studies.
Phenotypic characterization, plant growth and development, genome methylation, and mineral elements composition of neotetraploid lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Simko Ivan , Zhao Rebecca
Published: December 2023

Stable neotetraploid lines of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) were produced from three phenotypically distinct cultivars (Annapolis, Eruption, Merlot) and an advanced breeding line (SM13-L2) using colchicine treatment of seeds or young seedlings. When tested under the greenhouse and field conditions, neotetraploids initially grew more rapidly than their diploid progenitors, however they reached their reproductive stage (bolting, flower bud formation, and flowering) substantially later. Seeds production on neotetraploids was delayed by more than 30 days compared to diploids. Tetraploid plants had fewer, but larger stomata and leaves, less chlorophyll per area, higher photosystem II photochemical efficiency, generally lighter root system, and produced less than 1% of seeds in comparison with diploids. Field-grown neotetraploids of all lines displayed a significant reduction in tipburn (1.8% vs. 22.2%, respectively), a highly undesirable physiological disorder. Changes in leaf and root mineral composition were detected in neotetraploids. Several elements were found in lower abundance than in diploids, most notably iron, calcium, and silicon. Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) revealed 498 differentially methylated regions (DMR), with 106 of these regions having at least 50% difference in the level of methylation between neotetraploids and their diploid progenitors. At least 18 of the most prominent DMR were detected in proximity to genes predicted to be involved in plant development or reaction to biotic and abiotic stressors. Because neotetraploid lines have low seed production, they are not suitable for commercial cultivation. They can be used, however, in research to study the factors contributing to tipburn, traits affected by stomata size or density, and the effect of ploidy on resistance to environmental stressors.
Racial ideology, system justification, and just world belief in African Americans
Authors: Johnson Sydney Katherine , Thomas Kendra
Published: December 2023

Just world belief and system justification have previously been proposed to explain actions and beliefs of disadvantaged groups, but rarely together and never simultaneously in participants of color. A necessary expansion of work in this area is among African-American participants with differing views of race and how those views influence justice perceptions. Racial ideologies, used in African-American racial identity research, were studied as possible predictors of belief in a just world and system justification scores. The four racial ideologies examined in this study are assimilationist, humanist, nationalist, and oppressed minority. The current study examines belief in a just world and system justification as predicted by racial ideology. Participants (n = 261) responded to an online survey containing racial ideology items from the Multidimensional Model of Racial Identity (MMRI), the General and Personal Just World Scales, and the General System Justification Survey. Hierarchical linear regression was conducted, finding that nationalist ideology significantly predicted system justification and general just world belief.
Effects of salient factors on the pursuit of higher education among multicultural youth in Hong Kong
Authors: Yuen Celeste Y. M. , Cheung Alan C. K. , Leung K. H.
Published: December 2023

This study presents novel and compelling evidence of the disparities in factors influencing the beliefs and aspirations for higher education among mainstream and immigrant youth in Hong Kong, particularly those who are underprivileged. We developed and validated a psychometric questionnaire, known as the Post-Secondary Education Pursuit Instrument (PSEPi), which was administered to 4,850 students aged between 15 and 18 years old from 23 secondary schools. The objective of this study was to explore the factors that impact students’ choices and plans for higher education. The results of the one-way Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) analysis deepen our understanding of the differential effects of success and obstacle factors on students’ higher education pursuits across various cultural groups. The underprivileged mainstream, Chinese immigrant, and ethnic minority South Asian youth reported a perceived glass ceiling effect associated with their ethnic backgrounds, as well as financial aid barriers, while pursuing higher education, in contrast to their average Hong Kong mainstream counterparts (mean Cohen’sd= 0.40). The direct effects and multiple mediation analyses demonstrated that significant others’ influence, particularly the influence of parents, and locus of control are prime determinants of the perceived usefulness of higher education for all student groups. The implications are that educational policies should be implemented to level the playing field in higher education admissions for both privileged and underprivileged youth in Hong Kong and other international countries. Overall, this study provides robust empirical evidence that can be utilized to enhance educational policies and practices to bridge the gap between mainstream and underprivileged immigrant youth in their pursuit of higher education.
Effects of cognitive load and different exercise intensities on perceived effort in sedentary university students: a follow up of the Cubo Fitness Test validation
Authors: Signorini Gabriele , Scurati Raffaele , Bosio Andrea , Maestri Gloria , Rigon Marta , Trecroci Athos , Invernizzi Pietro Luigi
Published: December 2023

Work and intellectually fatiguing environments can significantly influence the health of individuals, which is strictly bound to motor efficiency. In particular, desk workers and university students may have a sedentary lifestyle and a condition of mental fatigue caused by daily routine, which could impair motor efficiency. The assessment is a starting point for enhancing awareness of the individual’s psychophysical condition through the perception of one’s body motor efficiency, motivating to move towards improvement. This way, a submaximal test based on perceived exertion was developed (Cubo Fitness Test, CFT) and validated in previous studies. Hence, two further studies were employed to enhance the consistency and accuracy of this instrument in different conditions. The first study investigated the internal responsiveness of CFT, evaluating if mental fatigue could affect motor efficiency. The second study investigated which perceived intensity (weak, moderate, strong, or absolute maximum) could be more reliable for applying the CFT (as previous research focused the investigation only on moderate intensity). In the first investigation, participants assessed two stimuli (mental fatigue induced with a Stroop color-word task and a neutral condition based on the vision of a documentary) lasting 60 min each. The quality of psychophysical recovery (total quality recovery) and the mood state (Italian Mood State questionnaire) were evaluated before the stimuli. After the fatiguing or the neutral task, the mood state was newly assessed, together with the evaluation of the workload’s characteristics (Nasa TLX) and the CFT motor efficiency. In the second investigation, participants had to perform CFT twice for each at different intensities of Borg’s Scale of perceived exertion. Researchers successfully requested to fill out the NASA TLX questionnaire regarding the perceived workload characteristics of CFT, and the reliability of each intensity was assessed. Results seem to enhance the consistency and the accuracy of the instrument. Indeed, findings evidenced that CFT is not influenced by mental fatigue conditions typical of the intellectual work of desk workers and university students for which this test was specifically conceived. Moreover, moderate and strong perceived intensity are the most adequate conditions to assess motor efficiency in these populations.
Examining social anxiety and dual aspects of social comparison orientation: the moderating role of self-evaluation of social skills
Authors: Okano Hirohito , Nomura Michio
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Social comparison orientation comprises ability comparison, which entails superior and inferior ratings; and opinion comparison, which does not include such ratings. Previous research on negative emotions and the social rank theory of social anxiety indicates that social anxiety is positively associated with ability comparison. This is particularly true of individuals with a stronger sense of inferiority (e.g., lower self-evaluation of their social skills). Nevertheless, the relationship between the two aspects of social comparison orientation and social anxiety remains unclear.

Methods

Two hundred thirty-eight individuals (Mage = 40.53 ± 9.78 years, 50.4% men) participated in an online cross-sectional survey questionnaire.

Results

Social anxiety was positively correlated with ability comparison but not opinion comparison. The relationship between social anxiety in situations observed by others and ability comparison was stronger for individuals with lower (vs. higher) self-rated social skills.

Discussion

This study showed that the two types of social comparison are differentially related to social anxiety. The findings support the social rank theory of social anxiety, which states that social comparisons involving superior and inferior ratings lead to social anxiety owing to the perception of one’s inferiority. Making such social comparisons can result in heightened social anxiety, particularly for individuals with low self-evaluations of social skills. The results indicate the importance of these social comparisons in the emergence and persistence of social anxiety. Furthermore, the potential of interventions based on mindfulness, compassion, social media, and video feedback in mitigating the negative effects of such social comparisons is discussed.
Effects of morality and reputation on sharing behaviors in human-robot teams
Authors: Chen Na , Hu Xueyan , Zhai Yanan
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The relationship between robots and humans is becoming increasingly close and will become an inseparable part of work and life with humans and robots working together. Sharing, which involves distributing goods between individuals and others, involves individuals as potential beneficiaries and the possibility of giving up the interests of others. In human teams, individual sharing behaviors are influenced by morality and reputation. However, the impact on individuals’ sharing behaviors in human-robot collaborative teams remains unclear-individuals may consider morality and reputation differently when sharing with robot or human partners. In this study, three experiments were conducted using the dictator game paradigm, aiming to compare the effects and mechanisms of morality and reputation on sharing behaviors in human and human-robot teams.

Methods

Experiment 1 involving 18 participants was conducted. Experiment 2 involving 74 participants was conducted. Experiment 3 involving 128 participants was conducted.

Results

Experiment 1 validated the differences in human sharing behaviors when the agents were robots and humans. Experiment 2 verifies that moral constraints and reputation constraints affect sharing behaviors in human-robot teams. Experiment 3 further reveals the mechanism of differences in sharing behaviors in human-robot teams, where reputation concern plays a mediating role in the impact of moral constraint on sharing behaviors, and the agent type plays a moderating role in the impact of moral constraint on reputation concern and sharing behaviors.

Discussion

The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the interaction mechanism of human-robot teams. In the future, the formulation of human-robot collaborative team rules and the setting of interaction environments can consider the potential motivation of human behavior from both morality and reputation perspectives and achieve better work performance.
The effect of gender in binge eating behavior in Chinese culture: the serial mediation model of body dissatisfaction and self-acceptance
Authors: Li Chunlu , Lyu Shuhui , Yan Jimin , Meng Xiaolu
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The gender difference of binge eating behavior been highlighted by previous studies. However, psychological mechanisms underlying the gender difference of binge eating behavior remain unclear. This study addressed this issue from a sociocultural perspective.

Methods

Firstly, we investigated the mediation effect of body dissatisfaction on the gender difference of binge eating behavior. Secondly, we examine the serial mediating role of body dissatisfaction and self-acceptance in gender differences of binge eating behavior. Here, we analyzed data from 703 Chinese university students using SPSS 26.0 and SPSS PROCESS.

Results

In Chinese culture, body dissatisfaction and self-acceptance independently or through a serial way mediate the gender differences in binge eating behaviors.

Discussion

We discussed the implications and limitations of the present study.
Changes in attachment dimensions during the treatment of acute post-traumatic stress disorder in sexually assaulted Brazilian women
Authors: Maciel Mariana Rangel , Calsavara Vinicius Fernando , Zylberstajn Cecilia , Mello Marcelo Feijo , Coimbra Bruno Messina , Mello Andrea  Feijo
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Attachment patterns are established during early childhood; however, extreme experiences throughout life may change this structure, either toward attachment security or insecurity. We analyzed changes in attachment dimensions in women with acute post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following sexual assault, that were randomized to a 14-week treatment with either the medication sertraline or Interpersonal Psychotherapy.

Methods

Seventy-four adult women who presented significant reduction in PTSD symptoms across the trial responded to the Revised Adult Attachment Scale at baseline, on week 8 of treatment, and at the end of the trial, on week 14. We fitted a generalized linear model to explain the attachment anxiety and avoidance scores at baseline. A generalized linear mixed model investigated how attachment dimensions changed over time. Socioeconomic data, treatment type, history of childhood trauma, and PTSD severity over the 14-week period were the considered covariates.

Results

At baseline, attachment anxiety was associated with a history of early trauma. Attachment anxiety remained stable during the follow-up. Attachment avoidance, on the other hand, significantly increased from baseline to week 14. Higher avoidance was observed in patients with higher total PTSD scores and on the cluster of hyperarousal symptoms. Races other than White (black, mixed-race, or Asian) and younger age were associated with higher attachment avoidance.

Discussion

Contrary to our expectations, attachment avoidance increased during follow-up, indicating changes in the interpersonal realm beyond the symptoms of PTSD.
The effects of a psychiatric clerkship on stigmatizing attitudes toward mental disorders as held by German medical students
Authors: Zavorotnyy Maxim , Klatte Simon , Yang Yunbo , Liu Wei , Wagner Ulrich , Kircher Tilo
Published: December 2023

Background

According to the United Nations, access to medical care is a fundamental human right. However, there is widespread stigmatization of severe mental illnesses and this appears to seriously hamper the quality of healthcare in people with psychiatric co-morbidity. Thus, interventions that help reduce stigma among healthcare providers are urgently needed.

Purpose

The objective of the current study was to investigate the effects of a psychiatric clerkship on stigmatizing attitudes toward mental disorders held by medical students.

Methods

Between 2018 and 2019, a total of 256 third- and fourth-year students from Marburg University Medical School (Germany) completed two surveys—one before and one after a 2 week clerkship program that was designed to prioritize direct interaction with the patients. For measuring stigma, the questionnaires contained questions about students' attitudes toward psychiatry (ATP), including the Opening Minds Scale for Healthcare Providers (OMS-HC), Community Attitudes Toward the Mentally Ill (CAMI), and measurements according to the Stereotype-Content Model (SCM). We conducted pre-vs.-post comparisons using the Wilcoxon signed rank test with continuity correction or paired t-test and employed the Spearman method for correlational analysis. We considered p < 0.05 significant and adjusted all p-values reported here using the Benjamini-Hochberg procedure to account for family-wise error.

Results

After the clerkship, a significantly reduced stigma was found, as assessed with ATP (mean p < 0.001), OMS-HC (sum and subscale “attitudes” p < 0.001; subscale “disclosure” p = 0.002), and both SCM subscales (p < 0.001). Moreover, we observed significant associations between stigma expression (e.g., OMS-HC sum) and the willingness of students to choose psychiatric residency after finishing medical school (before clerkship: p < 0.001; ρ = −0.35; change after clerkship: p = 0.004; ρ = −0.2).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that a psychiatric clerkship that involves students in direct interaction with patients may effectively reduce stigma. Therefore, we advocate the incorporation of components of direct interaction in medical education to combat stigma and unequal treatment, as this could improve outcomes in patients with severe mental illnesses.
Short-term ketamine use in bipolar depression: a review of the evidence for short-term treatment management
Authors: Wilkowska Alina , Cubała Wiesław Jerzy
Published: December 2023

Bipolar depression constitutes a major problem in psychiatry. It correlates with high suicidality, treatment resistance, chronicity, and poor quality of life. Registered treatment for bipolar depression is limited and insufficient. There is an urgent need for implementing new therapeutic strategies. Intranasal ketamine’s enantiomer—esketamine is a novel rapid-acting antidepressant with proven efficacy in treatment-resistant depression. Research on bipolar depression, although not as comprehensive, indicates that it may be a viable and safe substitute with minimal risk for mood polarity changes. Reports suggest that ketamine treatment in bipolar depression may reduce suicidal tendencies, decrease anhedonia, and alleviate anxiety. Ketamine’s mood-stabilizing properties are also hypothesized. In this narrative review, we focus on ketamine use as an add-on to standard medication for the acute treatment of bipolar depression.