bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PDLIM2 is highly expressed in Breast Cancer tumour-associated macrophages and is required for M2 macrophage polarization
Authors: Cox Orla T. , O’Sullivan Neil , Tresse Emilie , Ward Stephanie , Buckley Niamh , O’Connor Rosemary
Published: November 2022

The PDZ-LIM domain-containing protein 2 (PDLIM2) regulates cell polarity and the protein stability of key transcription factors in epithelial and hemopoietic cells. We previously reported that PDLIM2 is more highly expressed in Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) than in other breast cancer types or normal breast tissue. In the course of the TNBC study, it was noted that PDLIM2 was highly expressed in the stroma of PDLIM2-expressing tumours. Here, we investigated the phenotype of these stromal cells and whether any infiltrating immune population was linked to PDLIM2 expression. We found that high PDLIM2 expression in breast tumours was associated with higher levels of infiltrating M2 macrophages, but was not associated with infiltrating T cell sub-populations. We then tested whether PDLIM2 contributes to macrophage differentiation or function by using cultures of bone marrow-derived macrophages from wildtype and Pdlim2 knockout mice. This demonstrated that PDLIM2 is required for naïve macrophage migration and for the full adoption of IL-4-induced M2 polarization, including expression of M2 phenotypic markers, cell adhesion and cell migration. TLR4-, TLR3- or IFNγ-induced M1 macrophage activity was less dependent on PDLIM2. Finally, analysis of publicly available breast cancer datasets showed that high PDLIM2 expression is associated with increased M2 macrophage infiltration. We conclude that PDLIM2 expression influences the tumour associated stroma and, in particular, M2 macrophage infiltration that may contribute to the progression of TNBC or other subsets of breast cancer.
Craniopharyngioma resection by endoscopic endonasal approach versus transcranial approach: A systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies
Authors: Na Min Kyun , Jang Bohyoung , Choi Kyu-Sun , Lim Tae Ho , Kim Wonhee , Cho Youngsuk , Shin Hyun-Goo , Ahn Chiwon , Kim Jae Guk , Lee Juncheol , Kwon Sae Min , Lee Heekyung
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The transcranial approach (TCA) has historically been used to remove craniopharyngiomas. Although the extended endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) to these tumors has been more commonly accepted in the recent two decades, there is debate over whether this approach leads to better outcomes. The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to more comprehensively understand the benefits and limitations of these two approaches in craniopharyngioma resection based on comparative studies.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses recommendations using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. A total of 448 articles were screened. Data were extracted and analyzed using proportional meta-analysis. Eight comparative studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. The extent of resection, visual outcomes, and postoperative complications such as endocrine dysfunction and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage were compared.

Results and discussion

Eight studies, involving 376 patients, were included. Resection by EEA led to a greater rate of gross total resection (GTR) (odds ratio [OR], 2.42; p = 0.02; seven studies) with an incidence of 61.3% vs. 50.5% and a higher likelihood of visual improvement (OR, 3.22; p < 0.0001; six studies). However, TCA resulted in a higher likelihood of visual deterioration (OR, 3.68; p = 0.002; seven studies), and was related, though not significantly, to panhypopituitarism (OR, 1.39; p = 0.34; eight studies) and diabetes insipidus (OR, 1.14; p = 0.58; seven studies). Although TCA showed significantly lower likelihoods of CSF leakage (OR, 0.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10–0.71; p = 0.008; eight studies) compared to EEA, there was no significant difference in meningitis (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.20–4.25; p = 0.91; six studies) between the two approaches. When both approaches can completely resect the tumor, EEA outperforms TCA in terms of GTR rate and visual outcomes, with favorable results in complications other than CSF leakage, such as panhypopituitarism and diabetes insipidus. Although knowledge of and competence in traditional microsurgery and endoscopic surgery are essential in surgical decision-making for craniopharyngioma treatment, when both approaches are feasible, EEA is associated with favorable surgical outcomes.

Systematic review registration

http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42021234801.
Pyroptosis-related lncRNAs: A novel prognosis signature of colorectal cancer
Authors: Cai Xing , Liang Xiaoqing , Wang Kun , Liu Yin , Hao Mengdi , Li Huimin , Dai Xiaofang , Ding Lei
Published: November 2022

Pyroptosis is a newly discovered programmed cell death mechanism involved in tumorigenesis. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the potential role of pyroptosis-related lncRNAs (PRLs) in CRC remains unelucidated. Therefore, we retrieved transcriptomic data of CRC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). With the use of univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models and the random forest algorithm, a new risk model was constructed based on eight PRLs: Z99289.2, FENDRR, CCDC144NL-ASL, TEX41, MNX1-AS1, NKILA, LINC02798, and LINC02381. Then, according to the Kaplan–Meier plots, the relationship of PRLs with the survival of CRC patients was explored and validated with our risk model in external datasets (Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases; GEO17536, n = 177, and GSE161158, n = 250). To improve its clinical utility, a nomogram combining PRLs that could predict the clinical outcome of CRC patients was established. A full-spectrum immune landscape of CRC patients mediated by PRLs could be described. The PRLs were stratified into two molecular subtypes involved in immune modulators, immune infiltration of tumor immune microenvironment, and inflammatory pathways. Afterward, Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) and microsatellite instability (MSI) scores were analyzed. Three independent methods were applied to predict PRL-related sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs. Our comprehensive analysis of PRLs in CRC patients demonstrates a potential role of PRLs in predicting response to treatment and prognosis of CRC patients, which may provide a better understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying CRC pathogenesis and facilitate the development of effective immunotherapy.
Vascular lesions of the pediatric orbit: A radiological walkthrough
Authors: Colafati Giovanna Stefania , Piccirilli Eleonora , Marrazzo Antonio , Carboni Alessia , Diociaiuti Andrea , El Hachem May , Esposito Francesco , Zama Mario , Rollo Massimo , Gandolfo Carlo , Tomà Paolo
Published: November 2022

Vascular anomalies of the pediatric orbit represent a heterogeneous group that include both vascular tumors and vascular malformations. The disorder may initially be silent and then associated with symptoms and/or function damage, depending on the type of vascular anomaly and its extension. Vascular tumors include benign, locally aggressive (or borderline) and malignant forms while vascular malformations are divided into “simple”, “combined” and syndromic, or “low flow” or “high flow”. Both entities can arise in isolation or as part of syndromes. In this review, we describe the imaging findings of the vascular lesions of the orbit in the pediatric population, which are key to obtain a correct diagnosis and to guide the appropriate treatment in the light of the new genetic and molecular discoveries, and the role of the radiologist in their multidisciplinary management. We will also touch upon the main syndromes associated with orbital vascular abnormalities.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: New hope in the fight against COVID-19
Authors: Asadi Anar Mahsa , Foroughi Elaheh , Sohrabi Elika , Peiravi Samira , Tavakoli Yasaman , Kameli Khouzani Mozhgan , Behshood Parisa , Shamshiri Melika , Faridzadeh Arezoo , Keylani Kimia , Langari Seyedeh Faride , Ansari Akram , Khalaji Amirmohammad , Garousi Setareh , Mottahedi Mehran , Honari Sara , Deravi Niloofar
Published: November 2022

The emerging COVID-19 pandemic led to a dramatic increase in global mortality and morbidity rates. As in most infections, fatal complications of coronavirus affliction are triggered by an untrammeled host inflammatory response. Cytokine storms created by high levels of interleukin and other cytokines elucidate the pathology of severe COVID-19. In this respect, repurposing drugs that are already available and might exhibit anti-inflammatory effects have received significant attention. With the in vitro and clinical investigation of several studies on the effect of antidepressants on COVID-19 prognosis, previous data suggest that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might be the new hope for the early treatment of severely afflicted patients. SSRIs’ low cost and availability make them potentially eligible for COVID-19 repurposing. This review summarizes current achievements and literature about the connection between SSRIs administration and COVID-19 prognosis.
Pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and plasma protein binding rate of curcumol in rats using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Yang Zhaoxu , Sun Qingmei , Wang Sheng , Tang Bingbing , Yuan Chenxing , Wu Yue , Dai Jiabin , Yang Chen , Wang Lingkun , Zhou Qian , Wang Jincheng , Weng Qinjie
Published: November 2022

Objective: Curcumol is one of the major active ingredients isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine Curcumae Rhizoma and is reported to exhibit various bioactivities, such as anti-tumor and anti-liver fibrosis effects. However, studies of curcumol pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution are currently lacking. This study aims to characterize the pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and protein binding rate of curcumol.

Methods: Pharmacokinetics properties of curcumol were investigated afte doses of 10, 40, and 80 mg/kg of curcumol for rats and a single dose of 2.0 mg/kg curcumol was given to rats via intravenous administration to investigate bioavailability. Tissue distribution was investigated after a single dose of 40 mg/kg of orally administered curcumol. Plasma protein binding of curcumol was studied in vitro via the rapid equilibrium dialysis system. Bound and unbound curcumol in rat plasma were analyzed to calculate the plasma protein binding rate. A UHPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated to determine curcumol in rat plasma and tissues and applied to study the pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and plasma protein binding in rats.

Results: After oral administration of 10, 40, and 80 mg/kg curcumol, results indicated a rapid absorption and quick elimination of curcumol in rats. The bioavailability ranging from 9.2% to 13.1% was calculated based on the area under the curves (AUC) of oral and intravenous administration of curcumol. During tissue distribution, most organs observed a maximum concentration of curcumol within 0.5–1.0 h. A high accumulation of curcumol was found in the small intestine, colon, liver, and kidney. Moreover, high protein binding rates ranging from 85.6% to 93.4% of curcumol were observed in rat plasma.

Conclusion: This study characterized the pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and protein binding rates of curcumol in rats for the first time, which can provide a solid foundation for research into the mechanisms of curcumol’s biological function and clinical application.
Therapeutic targets and pharmacological mechanisms of Coptidis Rhizoma against ulcerative colitis: Findings of system pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yang Yuanming , Hua Yiwei , Chen Weihuan , Zheng Huan , Wu Haomeng , Qin Shumin , Huang Shaogang
Published: November 2022

Evidence of the advantages of Coptidis Rhizoma (CR) for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) is accumulating. However, research revealing the targets and molecular mechanisms of CR against UC is scarce. In this research, a bioinformatics analysis was performed to carry out the physicochemical properties and biological activities of phytochemicals in CR and analyze the binding activities, targets, biological functions and mechanisms of CR against UC. This research shows that the CR’s key phytochemicals, which are named Coptisine, Berberrubine, Berlambine, Berberine, Epiberberine, Obacunone, Worenine, Quercetin, (R)-Canadine, Magnograndiolide, Palmatine and Moupinamide, have ideal physicochemical properties and bioactivity. A total of 1,904 potential phytochemical targets and 17,995 UC-related targets are identified, and we finally acquire 233 intersection targets between key phytochemicals and disease. A protein-protein interaction network of 233 common targets was constructed; and six hub targets were acquired with a degree greater than or equal to median, namely TP53, HSP90AA1, STAT3, ESR1, MYC, and RELA. The enrichment analysis suggested that the core targets may exert an impact on anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, anti-oxidant and anti-fibrosis functions mainly through the PI3K/ART signaling pathway, Th17 differentiation signaling pathway, inflammatory bowel disease signaling pathway, etcetera. Also, a molecular docking analysis shows that the key phytochemicals have strong affinity for binding to the core targets. Finally, the interaction network of CR, phytochemicals, targets, GO functions, KEGG pathways and UC is constructed. This study indicates that the key phytochemicals in CR have superior drug likeness and bioactivity, and the molecular mechanism of key phytochemicals against UC may be via the signaling pathway mentioned above. The potential and critical pharmacological mechanisms provide a direction for future research.
Detecting potential mechanism of vitamin D in treating rheumatoid arthritis based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Xu Xiaoyu , Luo Hongyu , Chen Qian , Wang Zikang , Chen Xixuan , Li Xiaping , Chen Huan , Wang Miao , Xu Yingyue , Dai Min , Wang Jianwei , Huang Xuekuan , Wu Bin , Li Yanping
Published: November 2022

Aim: Vitamin D plays a vital role in Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the mechanism of vitamin D and rheumatism is still unclear. Therefore, a strategy based on network pharmacology and molecular docking was used to explore the mechanism of vitamin D and RA.

Methods: The targets of RA were obtained from the GeneCards database and Therapeutic Targets Database, and the targets of vitamin D were obtained from the Drugbank database and STITCH database. Next, overlapping genes were identified by Venny, and further Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and molecular docking analyses were performed.

Results: A total of 1,139 targets of RA and 201 targets of vitamin D were obtained. A total of 76 overlapping genes were identified by Venny. The enrichment analysis showed that cell proliferation, immune response, and apoptotic process were the critical biological processes of vitamin D in treating RA. Antifolate resistance, osteoclast differentiation, and the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathway are fundamental mechanisms of vitamin D in treating RA. According to further molecular docking, ALB, TNF, CASP3, and TP53 may be important punctuation points or diagnostic markers for future RA treatment.

Conclusion: By analysing overlapping genes of diseases and drugs, this study confirmed that ALB, TNF, CASP3, and TP53 may be essential markers or diagnostic markers for future RA treatment.
Comprehensive analysis of cuproptosis-related lncRNAs model in tumor immune microenvironment and prognostic value of cervical cancer
Authors: Wang Qiang , Xu Yue
Published: November 2022

Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth leading gynecological malignancy in females worldwide. Cuproptosis, a form of cell death induced by copper, elicits a novel therapeutic strategy in anticancer therapy. Nonetheless, the effects of cuproptosis-related lncRNAs in CC remain unclear. Therefore, we aim to investigate cuproptosis-related lncRNAs, develop a risk model for prognostic prediction, and elucidate the immunological profile of CC. Transcription profiles and clinical follow-up data of CC were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Afterward, the risk model was built by distinguishing prognostic cuproptosis-related lncRNAs using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression. The correctness of the risk model was validated, and a nomogram was established followed by tumor immune microenvironment analysis. Tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) scores were used to assess immunotherapy response, and anticancer pharmaceutical half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) prediction was performed for potential chemotherapy medicines. Finally, through coexpression analysis, 199 cuproptosis-related lncRNAs were collected. A unique risk model was generated using 6 selected prognostic cuproptosis-related lncRNAs. The risk score performed a reliable independent prediction of CC survival with higher diagnostic effectiveness compared to generic clinical characteristics. Immunological cell infiltration investigation indicated that the risk model was substantially linked with CC patients’ immunology, and the low-risk patients had lower TIDE scores and increased checkpoint expression, suggesting a stronger immunotherapy response. Besides, the high-risk group exhibited distinct sensitivity to anticancer medications. The immune-related progression was connected to the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between risk groups. Generally, the risk model comprised 6 cuproptosis-related lncRNAs that may help predict CC patients’ overall survival, indicate immunocyte infiltration, and identify individualized treatment.
Efficacy, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of herbal drugs derived from Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don and Fritillaria thunbergii Miq.
Authors: Wu Fan , Tian Mei , Sun Yuefeng , Wu Changhao , Liu Xue
Published: November 2022

Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don and F. thunbergii Miq. belong to the genus Fritillaria within the Liliaceae family. They are used in traditional Chinese medicines that are often administered in clinical settings as they have notable effects on cough, bronchitis, pneumonia, lung injury, cancer, and other diseases. In this review, we focus on the history, origin, similarities, and differences in efficacy, chemical composition, and pharmacological outcomes of the drugs obtained from F. cirrhosa (FRC) and F. thunbergii (FRT). We list various valuable pharmacological effects of FRC and FRT, including antitussive, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. Thus, this review offers a basis for the medical application of and further research into the pharmacological impacts of these two drugs. We believe that new drugs derived from the phytoconstituents of F. cirrhosa and F. thunbergii that have specific therapeutic properties can be developed in the future.
Sensitivity analysis of structural-acoustic fully-coupled system using isogeometric boundary element method
Authors: Chen Xiuyun , Xu Yanming , Zhao Juan , Cheng Ruhui , Ma Wenqiang
Published: November 2022

In many engineering challenges, the whole interaction between the structural domain and the acoustic domain must be taken into account, particularly for the acoustic analysis of thin structures submerged in water. The fast multipole boundary element approach is used in this work to simulate the external acoustic domain and the finite element method is used to describe the structural components. To improve coupling analysis accuracy, discontinuous higher-order boundary components are created for the acoustic domain. The isogeometric boundary element method (IGABEM) discretizes unknown physical fields by using CAD spline functions as basis functions. IGABEM is inherently compatible with CAD and can perform numerical analysis on CAD models without having to go through the time-consuming meshing process required by traditional FEM/BEM and volume parameterization in isogeometric finite element methods. IGABEM’s power in tackling infinite domain issues and combining CAD and numerical analysis is fully used when it is applied to structural form optimization of three-dimensional external acoustic problems. The structural-acoustic design and optimization procedures benefit from the use of structural-acoustic design sensitivity analysis because it may provide information on how design factors affect radiated acoustic performance. This paper provides adjoint operator-based equations for sound power sensitivity on structural surfaces and direct differentiation-based equations for sound power sensitivity on arbitrary closed surfaces surrounding the radiator. Numerical illustrations are provided to show the precision and viability of the suggested approach.
Metabolic effects of alternate-day fasting in males with obesity with or without type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ingersen Arthur , Helset Hildegunn Rømma , Calov Monika , Chabanova Elizaveta , Harreskov Eva Gjerlevsen , Jensen Christina , Hansen Christina Neigaard , Prats Clara , Helge Jørn Wulff , Larsen Steen , Dela Flemming
Published: November 2022

Alternate-day fasting induces oscillations in energy stores. We hypothesized that repeated oscillations increases insulin secretion and sensitivity, and improve metabolic health in patients with obesity with or without type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Twenty-three male patients fasted every other day for 30 h for 6 weeks. Experiments included resting energy expenditure, continuous glucose monitoring, intravenous glucose tolerance test, euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, body composition, hepatic triglyceride content, muscle biopsies which were performed at baseline, during 3 weeks without allowed weight loss, and after additional 3 weeks with weight loss. Bodyweight decreased ∼1% and further ∼3% during weeks one to three and four to six, respectively (p < 0.05). Only minor changes in fat mass occurred in weeks 1–3. With weight loss, visceral fat content decreased by 13 ± 3% and 12 ± 2% from baseline in patients with and without T2DM, respectively (p < 0.05). Hepatic triglyceride content decreased by 17 ± 9% and 36 ± 9% (with diabetes) and 27 ± 8% and 40 ± 8% (without diabetes) from baseline to week 3 and week 6, respectively (all p < 0.05). Muscle lipid and glycogen content oscillated with the intervention. Glucose homeostasis, insulin secretion and sensitivity was impaired in patients with T2DM and did not change without weight loss, but improved (p < 0.05) when alternate day fasting was combined with weight loss. In conclusion, alternate-day fasting is feasible in patients with obesity and T2DM, and decreases visceral fat and liver fat deposits. Energy store oscillations by alternate-day fasting do not improve insulin secretion or sensitivity per se.

Clinical Trial registration: (ClinicalTrials.gov), (ID NCT02420054).
A deep feature fusion network for fetal state assessment
Authors: Xiao Yahui , Lu Yaosheng , Liu Mujun , Zeng Rongdan , Bai Jieyun
Published: November 2022

CTG (cardiotocography) has consistently been used to diagnose fetal hypoxia. It is susceptible to identifying the average fetal acid-base balance but lacks specificity in recognizing prenatal acidosis and neurological impairment. CTG plays a vital role in intrapartum fetal state assessment, which can prevent severe organ damage if fetal hypoxia is detected earlier. In this paper, we propose a novel deep feature fusion network (DFFN) for fetal state assessment. First, we extract spatial and temporal information from the fetal heart rate (FHR) signal using a multiscale CNN-BiLSTM network, increasing the features’ diversity. Second, the multiscale CNN-BiLSM network and frequently used features are integrated into the deep learning model. The proposed DFFN model combines different features to improve classification accuracy. The multiscale convolutional kernels can identify specific essential information and consider signal’s temporal information. The proposed method achieves 61.97%, 73.82%, and 66.93% of sensitivity, specificity, and quality index, respectively, on the public CTU-UHB database. The proposed method achieves the highest QI on the private database, verifying the proposed method’s effectiveness and generalization. The proposed DFFN combines the advantages of feature engineering and deep learning models and achieves competitive accuracy in fetal state assessment compared with related works.
Does phenotyping of Hypericum secondary metabolism reveal a tolerance to biotic/abiotic stressors?
Authors: Bruňáková Katarína , Bálintová Miroslava , Petijová Linda , Čellárová Eva
Published: November 2022

In this review we summarize the current knowledge about the changes in Hypericum secondary metabolism induced by biotic/abiotic stressors. It is known that the extreme environmental conditions activate signaling pathways leading to triggering of enzymatic and non-enzymatic defense systems, which stimulate production of secondary metabolites with antioxidant and protective effects. Due to several groups of bioactive compounds including naphthodianthrones, acylphloroglucinols, flavonoids, and phenylpropanes, the world-wide Hypericum perforatum represents a high-value medicinal crop of Hypericum genus, which belongs to the most diverse genera within flowering plants. The summary of the up-to-date knowledge reveals a relationship between the level of defense-related phenolic compounds and interspecific differences in the stress tolerance. The chlorogenic acid, and flavonoids, namely the amentoflavone, quercetin or kaempferol glycosides have been reported as the most defense-related metabolites associated with plant tolerance against stressful environment including temperature, light, and drought, in association with the biotic stimuli resulting from plant-microbe interactions. As an example, the species-specific cold-induced phenolics profiles of 10 Hypericum representatives of different provenances cultured in vitro are illustrated in the case-study. Principal component analysis revealed a relationship between the level of defense-related phenolic compounds and interspecific differences in the stress tolerance indicating a link between the provenance of Hypericum species and inherent mechanisms of cold tolerance. The underlying metabolome alterations along with the changes in the activities of ROS-scavenging enzymes, and non-enzymatic physiological markers are discussed. Given these data it can be anticipated that some Hypericum species native to divergent habitats, with interesting high-value secondary metabolite composition and predicted high tolerance to biotic/abiotic stresses would attract the attention as valuable sources of bioactive compounds for many medicinal purposes.
Optimized potassium application rate increases foxtail millet grain yield by improving photosynthetic carbohydrate metabolism
Authors: Li Yanfen , Yin Meiqiang , Li Lulu , Zheng Jungang , Yuan Xiangyang , Wen Yinyuan
Published: November 2022

Photosynthetic carbohydrate metabolism is an important biochemical process related to crop production and quality traits. Potassium (K) critically contributes to the process of photosynthetic carbon assimilation and carbohydrate metabolism. We explored the effects of potassium fertilization on physiological mechanisms including carbohydrate metabolism in foxtail millet and its yield. Field experiments were performed using two foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) cultivars: 1) Jingu 21 (low-K sensitive); and 2) Zhangza 10 (low-K tolerant). Effect of five different potassium fertilizer (K2O) rates (0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 kg·hm−2) were tested in two consecutive years, 2020 and 2021. We found that potassium application significantly increases the K content, dry matter accumulation and yield. Jingu 21 and Zhangza 10 had maximum yields at 180 kg·hm−2 K application, which were 29.91% and 31.51% larger than without K application, respectively. Excessive K application (K240) did not further improve their yields. The suitable K fertilizer application of Jingu 21 and Zhangza 10 are 195.25–204.27 and 173.95–175.87 kg·K2O·hm−2, respectively. The net photosynthetic rate (Pn), ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase-oxygenase (Rubisco), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC), and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) were positively correlated with the potassium content. Potassium application improved the availability of carbon sources for carbohydrate synthesis. Compared with the K0 treatment, variations in the activities of sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS) and sucrose synthase (SuSy) in potassium-treated Jingu 21 (K60, K120, K180, and K240) were 17.94%–89.93% and 22.48%–182.10%, respectively, which were greater than those of Zhangza 10 (11.34%–71.12% and 16.18%–109.13%, respectively) and indicate that Jingu 21 is more sensitive to potassium application. The sucrose contents in the Jingu 21 and Zhangza 10 grains were 0.97%–1.15% and 1.04%–1.23%, respectively. The starch contents were 28.99%–37.75% and 24.81%–34.62%, respectively. The sucrose: ratio of Jingu 21 was smaller than that of Zhangza 10, indicating that Jingu 21 utilized nutrients better than Zhangza 10. Stepwise regression and path analysis showed that leaf and grain SuSy activity, by coordinating the source-sink relationship, have the greatest direct effect on Jingu 21 yield, whereas leaf SuSy activity, by promoting the generation of photosynthates at the source leaf, plays a leading role in Zhangza 10 yield increase. In conclusion, optimized K application can increase foxtail millet grain yield by improving photosynthesis and promoting carbohydrate accumulation and distribution.
Selenate and selenite transporters in proso millet: Genome extensive detection and expression studies under salt stress and selenium
Authors: Mushtaq Naveed Ul , Alghamdi Khalid M. , Saleem Seerat , Shajar Faamiya , Tahir Inayatullah , Bahieldin Ahmad , Rehman Reiaz Ul , Hakeem Khalid Rehman
Published: November 2022

Crops are susceptible to a variety of stresses and amongst them salinity of soil is a global agronomic challenge that has a detrimental influence on crop yields, thus posing a severe danger to our food security. Therefore, it becomes imperative to examine how plants respond to salt stress, develop a tolerance that allows them to live through higher salt concentrations and choose species that can endure salt stress. From the perspective of food, security millets can be substituted to avoid hardships because of their efficiency in dealing with salt stress. Besides, this problem can also be tackled by using beneficial exogenous elements. Selenium (Se) which exists as selenate or selenite is one such cardinal element that has been reported to alleviate salt stress. The present study aimed for identification of selenate and selenite transporters in proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.), their expression under NaCl (salt stress) and Na2SeO3 (sodium selenite)treatments. This study identified eight transporters (RLM65282.1, RLN42222.1, RLN18407.1, RLM74477.1, RLN41904.1, RLN17428.1, RLN17268.1, RLM65753.1) that have a potential role in Se uptake in proso millet. We analyzed physicochemical properties, conserved structures, sub-cellular locations, chromosome location, molecular phylogenetic analysis, promoter regions prediction, protein-protein interactions, three-dimensional structure modeling and evaluation of these transporters. The analysis revealed the chromosome location and the number of amino acids present in these transporters as RLM65282.1 (16/646); RLN42222.1 (1/543); RLN18407.1 (2/483); RLM74477.1 (15/474); RLN41904.1 (1/521); RLN17428.1 (2/522); RLN17268.1(2/537);RLM65753.1 (16/539). The sub-cellular locations revealed that all the selenite transporters are located in plasma membrane whereas among selenate transporters RLM65282.1 and RLM74477.1 are located in mitochondria and RLN42222.1 and RLN18407.1 in chloroplast. The transcriptomic studies revealed that NaCl stress decreased the expression of both selenate and selenite transporters in proso millet and the applications of exogenous 1µM Se (Na2SeO3) increased the expression of these Se transporter genes. It was also revealed that selenate shows similar behavior as sulfate, while selenite transport resembles phosphate. Thus, it can be concluded that phosphate and sulphate transporters in millets are responsible for Se uptake.
High seed diversity and availability increase rodent community stability under human disturbance and climate variation
Authors: Yang Xifu , Gu Haifeng , Zhao Qingjian , Zhu Yunlong , Teng Yuwei , Li Ying , Zhang Zhibin
Published: November 2022

The relationship between diversity and stability is a focus in community ecology, but the relevant hypotheses have not been rigorously tested at trophic and network levels due to a lack of long-term data of species interactions. Here, by using seed tagging and infrared camera tracking methods, we qualified the seed-rodent interactions, and analyzed the associations of rodent community stability with species diversity, species abundance, and seed-rodent network complexity of 15 patches in a subtropical forest from 2013 to 2021. A total of 47,400 seeds were released, 1,467 rodents were marked, and 110 seed-rodent networks were reconstructed to estimate species richness, species abundance, and seed-rodent network metrics. We found, from younger to older stands, species richness and abundance (biomass) of seeds increased, while those of rodents decreased, leading to a seed-rodent network with higher nestedness, linkage density, and generality in older stands, but higher connectance in younger stands. With the increase of temperature and precipitation, seed abundance (biomass), rodent abundance, and the growth rate of rodent abundance increased significantly. We found rodent community stability (i.e., the inverse of rodent abundance variability) was significantly and positively associated with seed diversity, seed availability, linkage density and generality of seed-rodent networks, providing evidence of supporting the Bottom-Up Diversity-Stability Hypotheses and the Abundant Food Diversity-Stability Hypothesis. Our findings highlight the significant role of resource diversity and availability in promoting consumers’ community stability at trophic and network levels, and the necessity of protecting biodiversity for increasing ecosystem stability under human disturbance and climate variation.
Genetic architecture and candidate gene identification for grain size in bread wheat by GWAS
Authors: Yu Haitao , Hao Yongchao , Li Mengyao , Dong Luhao , Che Naixiu , Wang Lijie , Song Shun , Liu Yanan , Kong Lingrang , Shi Shubing
Published: November 2022

Grain size is a key trait associated with bread wheat yield. It is also the most frequently selected trait during domestication. After the phenotypic characterization of 768 bread wheat accessions in three plots for at least two years, the present study shows that the improved variety showed significantly higher grain size but lower grain protein content than the landrace. Using 55K SNP assay genotyping and large-scale phenotyping population and GWAS data, we identified 5, 6, 6, and 6 QTLs associated with grain length, grain weight, grain area, and thousand grain weight, respectively. Seven of the 23 QTLs showed common association within different locations or years. Most significantly, the key locus associated with grain length, qGL-2D, showed the highest association after years of multi-plot testing. Haplotype and evolution analysis indicated that the superior allele of qGL-2D was mainly hidden in the improved variety rather than in landrace, which may contribute to the significant difference in grain length. A comprehensive analysis of transcriptome and homolog showed that TraesCS2D02G414800 could be the most likely candidate gene for qGL-2D. Overall, this study presents several reliable grain size QTLs and candidate gene for grain length associated with bread wheat yield.
Transforming adversity into an ally: A qualitative study of “feeding your demons” meditation
Authors: Ekman Eve , Koenig Christopher J. , Daubenmier Jennifer , Dickson Kate Greer , Simmons Vanessa , Braun Amy , Goldin Philippe
Published: November 2022

Contemplative science has made great strides in the empirical investigation of meditation practices, such as how mindfulness, compassion, and mantra practices impact health and well-being. However, meditation practices from the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition that use mental imagery to transform distressing beliefs and emotions have been little explored. We examined the “Feeding Your Demons” meditation, a secular adaptation of the traditional Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhist meditation practice of Chöd (“Severance”) in a pilot, randomized controlled trial in which 61 community adults from the U.S. with prior meditation experience and moderate levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms (70% female)were randomly assigned to one month (15 meditation sessions) of “Feeding Your Demons” practice or a waitlist control group. Written diary entries were collected immediately after each meditation session. We used an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis approach to examine qualitative responses to two questions which probed (1) how participants made meaning of each meditation session and (2) how they thought it may impact their future thoughts and intentions for action. Five major themes were identified based on 20 codes developed through an inductive review of written responses across all participants. The themes included an enhanced sense of self-worth and confidence, empathy for the “demon” or rejected parts of oneself, increased self-awareness, an active-oriented “fierce” self-compassion, and an acceptance form of self-compassion. Overall, participants expressed an ability to reframe, or transform, their relationship to distressing thoughts, emotions, and experiences as they gained personal insights, self-compassion, and acceptance through the meditation process which in turn shaped their future intentions for action in the world. This research suggests that a secular form of a Vajrayana Buddhist practice may be beneficial for Western meditation practitioners with no prior training in Vajrayana Buddhism. Future research is warranted to understand its longer-term impacts on health and well-being.
Overfactoring in rating scale data: A comparison between factor analysis and item response theory
Authors: Revuelta Javier , Ximénez Carmen , Minaya Noelia
Published: November 2022

Educational and psychological measurement is typically based on dichotomous variables or rating scales comprising a few ordered categories. When the mean of the observed responses approaches the upper or the lower bound of the scale, the distribution of the data becomes skewed and, if a categorical factor model holds in the population, the Pearson correlation between variables is attenuated. The consequence of this correlation attenuation is that the traditional linear factor model renders an excessive number of factors. This article presents the results of a simulation study investigating the problem of overfactoring and some solutions. We compare five widely known approaches: (1) The maximum-likelihood factor analysis (FA) model for normal data, (2) the categorical factor analysis (FAC) model based on polychoric correlations and maximum likelihood (ML) estimation, (3) the FAC model estimated using a weighted least squares algorithm, (4) the mean corrected chi-square statistic by Satorra–Bentler to handle the lack of normality, and (5) the Samejima’s graded response model (GRM) from item response theory (IRT). Likelihood-ratio chi-square, parallel analysis (PA), and categorical parallel analysis (CPA) are used as goodness-of-fit criteria to estimate the number of factors in the simulation study. Our results indicate that the maximum-likelihood estimation led to overfactoring in the presence of skewed variables both for the linear and categorical factor model. The Satorra–Bentler and GRM constitute the most reliable alternatives to estimate the number of factors.
Prevalence of depression and its potential contributing factors in patients with enterostomy: A meta-analytical review
Authors: Tang Wymann Shao Wen , Chiang Li Ling Christine , Kwang Kay Wee , Zhang Melvyn Wei Bin
Published: November 2022

Objective

In patients with intestinal pathologies, the placement of a stoma bag affects multiple aspects of their perceived quality of life. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the prevalence of depression among patients with enterostomy and to determine the underlying factors that could explain the potential heterogeneity of this prevalence.

Methods

Relevant published studies were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science until May 2022. The random-effects model was used to determine the pooled prevalence of depression among patients with enterostomy using cross-sectional studies from various countries. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis were performed to identify factors contributing to heterogeneity. Quality assessment of the included studies was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for nonrandomized studies.

Results

The pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms among patients with enterostomy, as calculated using the random-effects model, was 41.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 25.4–59.7%, Q-value = 145.794, df = 8, p < 0.001, tau∧2 = 1.124, I∧2 = 94.513). The meta-regression found that mean age and gender were not significant moderators for the observed heterogeneity in prevalence. Subgroup analysis according to the indications for enterostomy formation showed that the prevalence of depression was highest in patients with colorectal cancer, at 34.4% (95% CI: 27.2–42.4%). Subgroup analysis by region showed that patients in Africa had the highest prevalence of depression, at 88.2% (95% CI: 76.1–94.6%), compared to other regions. Subgroup analysis by stoma indication was not significant.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis reports that the pooled prevalence of depression among patients with enterostomy is 41.6%. Indications for enterostomy formation, as well as geographical region, were identified as potential sources of heterogeneity. These findings highlight the need for appropriate psychosocial support and interventions at different stages of enterostomy placement.
Alzheimer’s disease and depression in the elderly: A trajectory linking gut microbiota and serotonin signaling
Authors: Cutuli Debora , Giacovazzo Giacomo , Decandia Davide , Coccurello Roberto
Published: November 2022

The occurrence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in the elderly is viewed as an early sign of subsequent cognitive deterioration and conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer’s disease. The prognosis in terms of both the severity and progression of clinical dementia is generally aggravated by the comorbidity of neuropsychiatric symptoms and decline in cognitive function. Undeniably, aging and in particular unhealthy aging, is a silent “engine of neuropathology” over which multiple changes take place, including drastic alterations of the gut microbial ecosystem. This narrative review evaluates the role of gut microbiota changes as a possible unifying concept through which the comorbidity of neuropsychiatric symptoms and Alzheimer’s disease can be considered. However, since the heterogeneity of neuropsychiatric symptoms, it is improbable to describe the same type of alterations in the bacteria population observed in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as it is improbable that the variety of drugs used to treat neuropsychiatric symptoms might produce changes in gut bacterial diversity similar to that observed in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease. Depression seems to be another very intriguing exception, as it is one of the most frequent neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia and a mood disorder frequently associated with brain aging. Antidepressants (i.e., serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or tryptophan dietary supplementation have been shown to reduce Amyloid β-loading, reinstate microbial diversity and reduce the abundance of bacterial taxa dominant in depression and Alzheimer’s disease. This review briefly examines this trajectory by discussing the dysfunction of gut microbiota composition, selected bacterial taxa, and alteration of tryptophan and serotonin metabolism/neurotransmission as overlapping in-common mechanisms involved with depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and unhealthy aging.
A case study on the effect of light and colors in the built environment on autistic children’s behavior
Authors: Nair Ashwini Sunil , Priya Radhakrishnan Shanthi , Rajagopal Prashanthini , Pradeepa Chandramouli , Senthil Ramalingam , Dhanalakshmi Samiappan , Lai Khin Wee , Wu Xiang , Zuo Xiaowei
Published: November 2022

Background

The importance of strategies and services by caregivers and family members substantially impact the psychological and emotional wellbeing of autistic children. The rapid research developments in clinical and non-clinical methods benefit the features of autistic children. Among various internal and external factors, the influence of the built environment also impacts the characteristics of autistic children. This study investigates primarily the psychological effect of light and colors on the mood and behavior of autistic children to identify the most favorable and preferred indoor lights and color shades.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted at an autism center among autistic children and their parents. This study included autistic children aged between 6 and 16 (45 males, 42 females, mean age 8.7 years, standard deviation 2.3). Eighty-seven participants were involved in the survey to determine the sensory perceptions, intolerance, preferences, and sensitivities of children with an autism spectrum disorder toward colors and lighting. The margin of error at the statistical analysis’s 95% confidence level is ± 0.481.

Results

As per this case report, the children have various color preferences and respond differently to different shades. Different hues have varying effects on autistic children, with many neutral tones and mellow shades proven to be autistic-friendly with their calming and soothing effect, while bright, bold, and intense colors are refreshing and stimulating. The stimulus of bright-lighting causes behavioral changes in autistic children prone to light sensitivity.

Conclusion

The insights gained from this interaction with parents and caretakers of autistic children could be helpful for designers to incorporate specific autistic-friendly design elements that make productive interior spaces. A complete understanding of the effect of factors like color and lighting on the learning ability and engagement of autistic children in an indoor environment is essential for designers and clinicians. The main findings of this study could be helpful for a designer and clinicians to address designing an autism-friendly built environment with a color palette and lighting scheme conducive to their wellbeing and to maximize their cognitive functioning.
The influence of corporate social responsibility on safety behavior: The importance of psychological safety and the authentic leadership
Authors: Kim Byung-Jik , Kim Min-Jik , Lee Julak
Published: November 2022

Considering the importance of safety behavior, the current study investigates the relationship between CSR and safety behavior. To be specific, we delve into the underlying mechanism and its contingent factor of the association. This paper proposes that CSR promotes employee safety behavior through the mediation of psychological safety. In addition, authentic leadership may function as a positive moderator that amplifies the positive effect of CSR on psychological safety. Utilizing 3-wave time-lagged survey data from 213 South Korean workers, the current study empirically tests the hypotheses by establishing a moderated mediation model by utilizing structural equation modeling. The results demonstrate that CSR enhances employees' safety behavior by increasing their psychological safety and that authentic leadership positively moderates the relationship between CSR and psychological safety. This research's findings have meaningful theoretical and practical implications.