bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Brain Network Analysis of Knowledge Transfer While Engineering Problem-Solving
Authors: Wang Fuhua , Jiang Zuhua , Li Xinyu , Bu Lingguo , Ji Yongjun
Published: October 2021

As a complex cognitive activity, knowledge transfer is mostly correlated to cognitive processes such as working memory, behavior control, and decision-making in the human brain while engineering problem-solving. It is crucial to explain how the alteration of the functional brain network occurs and how to express it, which causes the alteration of the cognitive structure of knowledge transfer. However, the neurophysiological mechanisms of knowledge transfer are rarely considered in existing studies. Thus, this study proposed functional connectivity (FC) to describe and evaluate the dynamic brain network of knowledge transfer while engineering problem-solving. In this study, we adopted the modified Wisconsin Card-Sorting Test (M-WCST) reported in the literature. The neural activation of the prefrontal cortex was continuously recorded for 31 participants using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Concretely, we discussed the prior cognitive level, knowledge transfer distance, and transfer performance impacting the wavelet amplitude and wavelet phase coherence. The paired t-test results showed that the prior cognitive level and transfer distance significantly impact FC. The Pearson correlation coefficient showed that both wavelet amplitude and phase coherence are significantly correlated to the cognitive function of the prefrontal cortex. Therefore, brain FC is an available method to evaluate cognitive structure alteration in knowledge transfer. We also discussed why the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and occipital face area (OFA) distinguish themselves from the other brain areas in the M-WCST experiment. As an exploratory study in NeuroManagement, these findings may provide neurophysiological evidence about the functional brain network of knowledge transfer while engineering problem-solving.
Amplitude of Low-Frequency Fluctuation in Multiple Frequency Bands in Tension-Type Headache Patients: A Resting-State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Li Meng-Ting , Zhang Shu-Xian , Li Xue , Antwi Collins Opoku , Sun Jia-Wei , Wang Chao , Sun Xi-He , Jia Xi-Ze , Ren Jun
Published: October 2021

Purpose: Tension-type headache (TTH), the most prevalent primary headache disorder, imposes an enormous burden on the people of the world. The quest to ease suffering from this neurological disorder has sustained research interest. The present study aimed at evaluating the amplitude of low-frequency oscillations (LFOs) of the brain in multiple frequency bands in patients with TTH.

Methods: To address this question, 63 participants were enrolled in the study, including 32 TTH patients and 31 healthy controls (HCs). For all the participants, amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) was measured in six frequency bands (conventional frequency bands, 0.01–0.08 Hz; slow-2, 0.198–0.25 Hz; slow-3, 0.073–0.198 Hz; slow-4, 0.027–0.073 Hz; slow-5, 0.01–0.027 Hz; and slow-6, 0–0.01 Hz), and the differences between TTH patients and HCs were examined. To explore the relationship between the altered ALFF brain regions in the six frequency bands and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score in the TTH patients, Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed.

Results: In all the six frequency bands, a decreased ALFF value was detected, and regions showing reduced ALFF values were mostly located in the middle frontal gyrus and superior gyrus. A frequency-dependent alternating characterization of intrinsic brain activity was found in the left caudate nucleus in the slow-2 band of 0.198–0.25 Hz and in the right inferior frontal orbital gyrus in the slow-5 band of 0.01–0.027 Hz. For the correlation results, both the left anterior cingulate and paracingulate gyri and right superior parietal gyrus showed a positive correlation with the VAS score in the slow-4 frequency band of 0.027–0.073 Hz.

Conclusion: The ALFF alterations in the brain regions of TTH patients are involved in pain processing. The altered LFOs in the multiple regions may help promote the understanding of the pathophysiology of TTH. These observations could also allow the future treatment of TTH to be more directional and targeted and could promote the development of TTH treatment.
High Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Are Associated With Sarcopenia Risk in Hospitalized Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Hu Qiang , Mao Weipu , Wu Tiange , Xu Zhipeng , Yu Junjie , Wang Can , Chen Saisai , Chen Shuqiu , Xu Bin , Xu Yueshuang , Chen Ming
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aimed i) to identify the best cutoff points of neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR) that predict sarcopenia and ii) to illustrate the association between sarcopenia risk and NLR or PLR in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients undergoing laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomy.

Methods

A total of 343 RCC patients who underwent laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomy between 2014 and 2019 were enrolled in our study. Sarcopenia was assessed by lumbar skeletal muscle index (SMI). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to identify the best cutoff point of NLR or PLR to predict sarcopenia risk. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression and dose–response analysis curves of restricted cubic spline function were conducted to assess the relationship between sarcopenia and NLR or PLR.

Results

The best cutoff points of NLR >2.88 or PLR >135.63 were confirmed by the ROC curve to predict sarcopenia risk. Dose–response curves showed that the risk of sarcopenia increased with raising NLR and PLR. Patients with NLR >2.88 or PLR >135.63 had a higher sarcopenia risk than those in the NLR ≤2.8 or PLR ≤135.63 group, respectively. By adjusting for all variables, we found that patients with NLR >2.88 and PLR >135.63 had 149% and 85% higher risk to develop sarcopenia, respectively, than those with NLR ≤2.8 (aOR = 2.49; 95% CI = 1.56–3.98; p < 0.001) or PLR ≤135.63 (aOR = 1.85; 95% CI = 1.16–2.95; p = 0.010).

Conclusion

In RCC patients receiving laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomy, NLR and PLR, which were biomarkers of systemic inflammation, were associated with sarcopenia risk.
Real-World Lenvatinib Versus Sorafenib in Patients With Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Kuo Yuan-Hung , Lu Sheng-Nan , Chen Yen-Yang , Kee Kwong-Ming , Yen Yi-Hao , Hung Chao-Hung , Hu Tsung-Hui , Chen Chien-Hung , Wang Jing-Houng
Published: October 2021

Background

Lenvatinib is approved for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to its non-inferiority to sorafenib of overall survival (OR) in clinical trials. This study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of lenvatinib and sorafenib in the real world.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 338 patients with unresectable HCC who had undergone lenvatinib or sorafenib treatment between January 2018 and August 2020. Propensity-score matching analysis was performed with a 1:2 ratio to reduce the real-life baseline difference between the two groups.

Results

A total of 210 patients (Male/Female: 150/60, mean age: 65.8 years) were recruited including 70 patients in the Lenvatinib group and 140 patients in the Sorafenib group. Compared with sorafenib, lenvatinib had significantly longer progression-free survival (PFS) (5.2 vs 3.3 months, p=0.019) but similar OR (13.3 vs 11.8 months, p=0.714). Additionally, lenvatinib had better disease control rates (62.3 vs 48.6%, p=0.029) and equivalent incidences of treatment-related adverse events over sorafenib. In multivariate analysis, lenvatinib was associated with better PFS over sorafenib (hazard ratio: 0.49, 95% confidence interval: 0.3–0.79, p=0.004) after adjustments of albumin-bilirubin grade and alpha-fetoprotein level; however, different agents using lenvatinib or sorafenib did not contribute to OS, whether in univariate or multivariate analysis. Patients who failed lenvatinib had a lower proportion of having sequential systemic therapies compared with the Sorafenib group (36.2 vs 47.8%, p=0.02). The most frequently used sequential therapy following lenvatinib and sorafenib was chemotherapy (n=9, 42.8%) and regorafenib (n=33, 50.8%), respectively.

Conclusions

In clinical real-life practice, lenvatinib illustrated promising survival benefits and acceptable safety for patients with unresectable HCC, while reducing the risk of progression disease compared with sorafenib. Additionally, lack of approved post-lenvatinib systemic therapies is a serious issue in the real world.
Host-Based Biomarkers in Saliva for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Children: A Mini-Review
Authors: Khambati Nisreen , Olbrich Laura , Ellner Jerrold , Salgame Padmini , Song Rinn , Bijker Else Margreet
Published: October 2021

The diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in children remains a significant challenge due to its paucibacillary nature, non-specificity of symptoms and suboptimal sensitivity of available diagnostic methods. In young children particularly, it is difficult to obtain high-quality sputum specimens for testing, with this group the least likely to be diagnosed, while most at risk of severe disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) has prioritized research into rapid biomarker-based tests for TB using easily obtainable non-sputum samples, such as saliva. However, the role of biomarkers in saliva for diagnosing TB in children has not been fully explored. In this mini-review, we discuss the value of saliva as a diagnostic specimen in children given its ready availability and non-invasive nature of collection, and review the literature on the use of host-based biomarkers in saliva for diagnosing active pulmonary TB in adults and children. Based on available data from adult studies, we highlight that combinations of cytokines and other proteins show promise in reaching WHO-endorsed target product profiles for new TB triage tests. Given the lack of pediatric research on host biomarkers in saliva and the differing immune response to TB infection between children and adults, we recommend that pediatric studies are now performed to discover and validate salivary host biosignatures for diagnosing pulmonary TB in children. Future directions for pediatric saliva studies are discussed, with suggestions for technologies that can be applied for salivary biomarker discovery and point-of-care test development.
Immune-Related Adverse Events Associated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Zhang Weidong , Gu Jingjing , Bian Chunming , Huang Guanhong
Published: October 2021

Objective: This network meta-analysis will provide a complete toxicity profile, toxicity profile, and safety ranking of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods: We found 12 phase II or III randomized clinical trials (RCTs) including 8,453 patients with NSCLC by searching Pubmed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to compare the rate of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) for different ICIs-based treatments using pairwise and network meta-analysis with random effects.

Results: For dermatologic irAEs, the corresponding ranking of incidences of the seven groups from high to low was: nivolumab + ipilimumab (97.4%), pembrolizumab (80.1%), nivolumab (67.1%), pembrolizumab + platinum (43.3%), atezolizumab + platinum (39.9%), durvalumab (17.5%), platinum-based chemotherapy (4.7%). For colitis, the corresponding ranking of incidences of the six groups from high to low was: atezolizumab + platinum (77.1%), nivolumab (67.3%), pembrolizumab (60.5%), durvalumab (45.2%), pembrolizumab + platinum (41.4%), platinum-based chemotherapy (8.5%). For endocrine irAEs, the corresponding ranking of incidences of the seven groups from high to low was: nivolumab + ipilimumab (79.1%), durvalumab (69.1%), pembrolizumab (61.9%), atezolizumab + platinum (60.4%),nivolumab (45.7%), pembrolizumab + platinum (33.5%), platinum-based chemotherapy (0.3%). For pneumonitis, the corresponding ranking of incidences of the seven groups from high to low was: pembrolizumab (99.3%), pembrolizumab + platinum (65.1%), durvalumab (62.2%), atezolizumab + platinum (56%), nivolumab (35.9%), platinum-based chemotherapy (18.1%),atezolizumab (13.3%). For hepatitis, the corresponding ranking of incidences of the six groups from high to low was: pembrolizumab (71.2%), pembrolizumab + platinum (64.3%), durvalumab (56.4%), atezolizumab + platinum (53.8%), nivolumab (44.5%), platinum-based chemotherapy (9.8%).

Conlusion: In addition to platinum-based chemotherapy, durvalumab for dermatologic and liver irAEs, pembrolizumab for gastrointestinal irAEs, pembrolizumab + platinum for endocrine irAEs, and atezolizumab for pneumonitis may be associated with lower rates of irAEs than other immune-based regimens. Nivolumab + ipilimumab for dermatologic and endocrine irAEs, atezolizumab + platinum for colitis, and pembrolizumab for pneumonitis and hepatitis may be associated with higher rates of irAEs.
Hepatopathy Associated With Type 1 Diabetes: Distinguishing Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease From Glycogenic Hepatopathy
Authors: Mertens Jonathan , De Block Christophe , Spinhoven Maarten , Driessen Ann , Francque Sven M. , Kwanten Wilhelmus J.
Published: October 2021

Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells results in the permanent loss of insulin production in type 1 diabetes (T1D). The daily necessity to inject exogenous insulin to treat hyperglycemia leads to a relative portal vein insulin deficiency and potentiates hypoglycemia which can induce weight gain, while daily fluctuations of blood sugar levels affect the hepatic glycogen storage and overall metabolic control. These, among others, fundamental characteristics of T1D are associated with the development of two distinct, but in part clinically similar hepatopathies, namely non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and glycogen hepatopathy (GlyH). Recent studies suggest that NAFLD may be increasingly common in T1D because more people with T1D present with overweight and/or obesity, linked to the metabolic syndrome. GlyH is a rare but underdiagnosed complication hallmarked by extremely brittle metabolic control in, often young, individuals with T1D. Both hepatopathies share clinical similarities, troubling both diagnosis and differentiation. Since NAFLD is increasingly associated with cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease, whereas GlyH is considered self-limiting, awareness and differentiation between both condition is important in clinical care. The exact pathogenesis of both hepatopathies remains obscure, hence licensed pharmaceutical therapy is lacking and general awareness amongst physicians is low. This article aims to review the factors potentially contributing to fatty liver disease or glycogen storage disruption in T1D. It ends with a proposal for clinicians to approach patients with T1D and potential hepatopathy.
Scattering of the Radial Polarized Beams on the Metal Spherical Particle: Plasmonic Nanojet Formation
Authors: Plutenko D. O. , Vasnetsov M. V.
Published: October 2021

We report on the effects associated with photonic nanojet (PNJ) formation under illumination of a metallic spherical particle with a focused light beam with polarization singularity. Owing to radial polarization, the strongly focused beam generates the on-axis localized structure of intensity in the shadow area of the metal scatterer of different sizes, from the Rayleigh particle to microbeads. Significant amplification factor, small transverse size, and zero magnetic component on the axis and longitudinal polarization of the electric field are the distinctive features of such structures.
Comprehensive Analyses of the Spatio-Temporal Variation of New-Energy Vehicle Charging Piles in China: A Complex Network Approach
Authors: Wang Maoze , Wu Fan , Chen Junhua
Published: October 2021

This study collects data on electric vehicle (EV) charging piles for various provinces in China and analyzes the development of the network of EV chargers from the perspective of a complex network. Features of the distribution of EV charging piles for the period from May 2016 to April 2019 and the spatio-temporal variations across provinces are thus analyzed. The study then transforms time-series data of the EV charging piles into a complex network by applying a visibility graph, uses several clustering methods to categorize different provinces, and predicts the future development of the network of EV charging piles in China. Additionally, the distribution of EV charging piles across time is analyzed for a combination of national policies and new-energy vehicles. The results of the study will guide provincial governments in creating policies that develop relevant industries progressively and promote the sustainable development of EVs and green-energy industry.
Protected Organic Acid and Essential Oils for Broilers Raised Under Field Conditions: Intestinal Health Biomarkers and Cecal Microbiota
Authors: Bortoluzzi Cristiano , Lahaye Ludovic , Oxford Jarred , Detzler Derek , Eyng Cinthia , Barbieri Nicolle Lima , Santin Elizabeth , Kogut Michael Henry
Published: October 2021

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of protected organic acids (OA) and essential oils (EO) [P(OA + EO)] on the intestinal health of broiler chickens raised under field conditions. The study was conducted on four commercial farms. Each farm consisted of four barns, two barns under a control diet and two tested barns supplemented with P(OA + EO), totaling 16 barns [8 control and 8 under P(OA + EO)]. The control group was supplemented with antibiotic growth promoters [AGP; Bacitracin Methylene Disalicylate (50 g/ton) during starter, grower and finisher 1, and flavomycin (2 g/ton) during finisher 2]. The tested group was supplemented with 636, 636, 454, and 454 g/ton of P(OA + EO) during starter, grower, finisher 1 and 2, respectively. Eighty birds were necropsied (40/treatment; 20/farm; and 5/barn) to collect blood, jejunal tissue, and cecal contents. The data were submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA) (P < 0.05) or Kruskal-Wallis’ test and the frequency of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) genes was analyzed by Chi-Square test (P < 0.05). It was observed that the supplementation of P(OA + EO) reduced (P < 0.05) the histopathology scores, such as the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the epithelium and lamina propria and tended (P = 0.09) to reduce the serum concentration of calprotectin (CALP). The supplementation of P(OA + EO) reduced the serum concentration of IL-12 (P = 0.0001), IL-16 (P = 0.001), and Pentraxin-3 (P = 0.04). Additionally, P(OA + EO) maintained a cecal microbiota similar to birds receiving AGP. The substitution of AGP by P(OA + EO) reduced (P < 0.05) the frequency of four AMR genes, related to gentamicin (three genes), and aminoglycoside (one gene). Overall, the inclusion of P(OA + EO), and removal of AGP, in the diets of commercially raised broiler chickens beneficially changed the phenotype of the jejunum as shown by the lowered ISI scores which characterizes an improved intestinal health. Furthermore, P(OA + EO) significantly reduced the serum concentration of several inflammatory biomarkers, while maintaining the diversity and composition of the cecal microbiota similar to AGP fed chickens and reducing the prevalence of AMR genes.
Protein Kinase C-Dependent Effects of Neurosteroids on Synaptic GABAA Receptor Inhibition Require the δ-Subunit
Authors: Littlejohn Erica L. , Boychuk Carie R.
Published: October 2021

The dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) contains preganglionic motor neurons important for interpreting sensory input from the periphery, integrating that information, and coding the appropriate parasympathetic (vagal) output to target organs. Despite the critical role of hormonal regulation of vagal motor output, few studies examine the role of neurosteroids in the regulation of the DMV. Of the few examinations, no studies have investigated the potential impact of allopregnanolone (Allo), a neuroactive progesterone-derivative, in the regulation of neurotransmission on the DMV. Since DMV neuronal function is tightly regulated by GABAA receptor activity and Allo is an endogenous GABAA receptor ligand, the present study used in vitro whole cell patch clamp to investigate whether Allo alters GABAergic neurotransmission to DMV neurons. Although Allo did not influence GABAergic neurotransmission during initial application (5–20 min), a TTX-insensitive prolongment of decay time and increase in frequency of GABAergic currents was established after Allo was removed from the bath for at least 30 min (LtAllo). Inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC) abolished these effects, suggesting that PKC is largely required to mediate Allo-induced inhibition of the DMV. Using mice that lack the δ-subunit of the GABAA receptor, we further confirmed that PKC-dependent activity of LtAllo required this subunit. Allo also potentiated GABAA receptor activity after a repeated application of δ-subunit agonist, suggesting that the presence of Allo encodes stronger δ-subunit-mediated inhibition over time. Using current clamp recording, we demonstrated that LtAllo-induced inhibition is sufficient to decrease action potential firing and excitability within DMV neurons. We conclude that the effects of LtAllo on GABAergic inhibition are dependent on δ-subunit and PKC activation. Taken together, DMV neurons can undergo long lasting Allo-dependent GABAA receptor plasticity.
IL-33 as a Critical Cytokine for Inflammation and Fibrosis in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and Pancreatitis
Authors: Kurimoto Masayuki , Watanabe Tomohiro , Kamata Ken , Minaga Kosuke , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: October 2021

IL-33 is a pleiotropic cytokine that promotes inflammation and fibrosis. IL-33 is produced by a broad range of cells, including antigen-presenting cells (APCs), epithelial cells, and fibroblasts. IL-33 produced by the innate immune cells has been shown to activate pro-inflammatory T helper type 1 (Th1) and T helper type 2 (Th2) responses. The intestinal barrier and tolerogenic immune responses against commensal microbiota contribute to the maintenance of gut immune homeostasis. Breakdown of tolerogenic responses against commensal microbiota as a result of intestinal barrier dysfunction underlies the immunopathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and pancreatitis. Recent studies have provided evidence that IL-33 is an innate immune cytokine that bridges adaptive Th1 and Th2 responses associated with IBD and pancreatitis. In this Mini Review, we discuss the pathogenic roles played by IL-33 in the development of IBD and pancreatitis and consider the potential of this cytokine to be a new therapeutic target.
Comparison of the Fruit Volatile Profiles of Five Muscadine Grape Cultivars (Vitis rotundifolia Michx.) Using HS-SPME-GC/MS Combined With Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Authors: Deng Honghong , He Runmei , Long Meicun , Li Yanmei , Zheng Yuanyuan , Lin Lijin , Liang Dong , Zhang Xiaoai , Liao Ming'an , Lv Xiulan , Deng Qunxian , Xia Hui
Published: October 2021

Fruit aromas are composed of a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds, which are essential attributes associated with the overall flavor and consumer preference. Muscadine grape (MG; Vitis rotundifolia Michx.) is an aroma-dense fruit crop. However, there is very scarce information on its volatile profiles. In this study, the volatile constituents of five newly introduced MG cultivars, including Alachua, Carlos, Fry, Granny Val, and Noble, were profiled using headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC/MS) combined with multivariate statistical analysis. A total of 44 compounds, including esters, aldehydes, alcohols, fatty acids, terpenes, ketones, and furan, were identified and relatively quantified. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) evidently discriminated against the five MG cultivars based on their volatile profiles. The specific volatiles that contributed the most to this discrimination were highlighted. Geraniol and cinnamyl alcohol were demonstrated to be essential for characterizing the Alachua MG cultivar, whereas ethyl trans-2-butenoate and propyl acetate were shown to be important compounds to characterize the Noble MG cultivar. The results further showed that 2-Ethyl-1-hexanol, (Z)-3-hexenal, and (E)-2-hexenol were closely related to Carlos, Fry, and Granny Val cultivars, respectively. This investigation is the first in-depth exploration of the volatile profiles of the aroma-dense muscadine grape, which is essential for future genetic or biotechnological improvements to attain a cultivar with the desired flavor.
Characterization of Phytochrome-Interacting Factor Genes in Pepper and Functional Analysis of CaPIF8 in Cold and Salt Stress
Authors: Yang Youxin , Guang Yelan , Wang Feng , Chen Yue , Yang Wenting , Xiao Xufeng , Luo Sha , Zhou Yong
Published: October 2021

As a subfamily of basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors, phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs) participate in regulating light-dependent growth and development of plants. However, limited information is available about PIFs in pepper. In the present study, we identified six pepper PIF genes using bioinformatics-based methods. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the PIFs from pepper and some other plants could be divided into three distinct groups. Motif analysis revealed the presence of many conserved motifs, which is consistent with the classification of PIF proteins. Gene structure analysis suggested that the CaPIF genes have five to seven introns, exhibiting a relatively more stable intron number than other plants such as rice, maize, and tomato. Expression analysis showed that CaPIF8 was up-regulated by cold and salt treatments. CaPIF8-silenced pepper plants obtained by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) exhibited higher sensitivity to cold and salt stress, with an obvious increase in relative electrolyte leakage (REL) and variations in the expression of stress-related genes. Further stress tolerance assays revealed that CaPIF8 plays different regulatory roles in cold and salt stress response by promoting the expression of the CBF1 gene and ABA biosynthesis genes, respectively. Our results reveal the key roles of CaPIF8 in cold and salt tolerance of pepper, and lay a solid foundation for clarifying the biological roles of PIFs in pepper and other plants.
Insights Into the Genetic Diversity of Nordic Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) Revealed by SeqSNP-Based Genic Markers
Authors: Osterman Johanna , Hammenhag Cecilia , Ortiz Rodomiro , Geleta Mulatu
Published: October 2021

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is one of the most important fodder crops worldwide. The knowledge of genetic diversity among red clover populations, however, is under development. This study provides insights into its genetic diversity, using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers to define population structure in wild and cultivated red clover. Twenty-nine accessions representing the genetic resources available at NordGen (the Nordic gene bank) and Lantmännen (a Swedish agricultural company with a red clover breeding program) were used for this study. Genotyping was performed via SeqSNP, a targeted genotype by sequencing method that offers the capability to target specific SNP loci and enables de novo discovery of new SNPs. The SNPs were identified through a SNP mining approach based on coding sequences of red clover genes known for their involvement in development and stress responses. After filtering the genotypic data using various criteria, 623 bi-allelic SNPs, including 327 originally targeted and 296 de novo discovered SNPs were used for population genetics analyses. Seventy-one of the SNP loci were under selection considering both Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and pairwise FST distributions. The average observed heterozygosity (HO), within population diversity (HS) and overall diversity (HT) were 0.22, 0.21 and 0.22, respectively. The tetraploids had higher average HO (0.35) than diploids (0.21). The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed low but significant variation among accessions (5.4%; P < 0.001), and among diploids and tetraploids (1.08%; P = 0.02). This study revealed a low mean inbreeding coefficient (FIS = −0.04) exhibiting the strict outcrossing nature of red clover. As per cluster, principal coordinate and discriminant analyses, most wild populations were grouped together and were clearly differentiated from the cultivated types. The cultivated types of red clover had a similar level of genetic diversity, suggesting that modern red clover breeding programs did not negatively affect genetic diversity or population structure. Hence, the breeding material used by Lantmännen represents the major genetic resources in Scandinavia. This knowledge of how different types of red clover accessions relate to each other and the level of outcrossing and heterozygosity will be useful for future red clover breeding.
A Suicide Monitoring and Crisis Intervention Strategy Based on Knowledge Graph Technology for “Tree Hole” Microblog Users in China
Authors: Yang Bing Xiang , Xia Lin , Liu Lianzhong , Nie Wentao , Liu Qian , Li Xin Yi , Ao Meng Qin , Wang Xiao Qin , Xie Ya Dian , Liu Zhongchun , Huang Yi Jia , Huang Zhisheng , Gong Xuan , Luo Dan
Published: October 2021

“Zou Fan” is currently the largest “tree hole” on Weibo, where people having suicidal ideation often express their thoughts and use this channel to seek support. Therefore, early suicide monitoring and timely crisis intervention based on artificial intelligence technology are needed for this social media user group. This research was based on the knowledge graph technology, whereby “Tree Hole Intelligent Agent” (i.e., Artificial Intelligence Program) was used to identify “Zou Fan Tree Hole” users at high risk for suicide, and then, the “Tree Hole Action” carried out proactive suicide crisis intervention with them. The “Tree Hole Action” has temporarily prevented 3,629 potential suicides. The “Tree Hole Action” plays a significant role in suicide risk monitoring and crisis intervention for social media users and has been seen to have an important social impact.
Depression and Anxiety in Times of COVID-19: How Coping Strategies and Loneliness Relate to Mental Health Outcomes and Academic Performance
Authors: Freyhofer Sebastian , Ziegler Niklas , de Jong Elisabeth M. , Schippers Michaéla C.
Published: October 2021

The link between depression, anxiety, and loneliness has been well established in the literature. Yet, the performance consequences of these negative mental health outcomes and the role of coping behaviors, as well as behavioral consequences such as procrastination as mediators have received far less research attention. Due to the COVID-19 social isolation restrictions, people are at risk of falling into a negative mental health spiral that can also affect their performance over time. The purpose of this longitudinal study among 881 first-year bachelor students is to explore the mechanisms by which loneliness, coping strategies in the context of COVID-19, mental health outcomes and procrastination sequentially mediate the relationship depression and anxiety on the one hand, and academic performance on the other hand. We measured mental health variables several times during the COVID-19 crisis and assessed how this translates into academic performance at the end of the academic year. By performing exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, three high-order factors for the coping strategies in the context of the COVID-19 crisis were identified, namely maladaptive coping, adaptive coping, and supportive coping. Structural equation modeling was used to test the sequential mediational model. The results showed that maladaptive coping strategies employed at T2 during the lockdown, but not adaptive or supportive coping partially mediate the trajectories of depression (T1) and anxiety (T1). Loneliness (T2) partially mediated the trajectory of depression and anxiety (T1), and procrastination fully mediated the impact of depression (T3) on academic performance (T4). These results help understand the mechanisms that influence mental health and academic performance outcomes in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Based on the study outcomes, educational researchers can test strategies to reduce the adverse effects of stressful situations in learning environments by targeting maladaptive coping behaviors and procrastination.
Institutional Satisfaction and Anxiety Mediate the Relationship Between Social Support and Depression in Hypertension Patients in Elderly Caring Social Organizations: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ji Kai , Bai Zhongliang , Tang Ling , Yan Huosheng , Zhu Ying , Chen Guimei , Chen Ren
Published: October 2021

Background:Depression is a prevalent health condition among hypertension patients in elderly caring social organizations (SOs). Patients with hypertension and depression symptoms have worse health outcomes than those without depression. As the population ages, chronic and mental health issues such as depression of hypertension patients in elderly caring SOs have become prominent. However, the combined effects of social support, institutional satisfaction, and anxiety on depression among hypertension individuals in elderly caring SOs remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the mediating effects of institutional satisfaction and anxiety on the relationship between social support and depression among hypertension patients in elderly caring SOs in Anhui Province, China.

Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted using a multi-stage stratified random sampling method. A questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic characteristics, the satisfaction of elderly caring SOs, social support, anxiety, and depression. A multiple linear regression model was utilized to investigate depression-related factors, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to examine the relationships between social support, institutional satisfaction, anxiety, and depression among patients with hypertension in elderly caring SOs.

Results:Our results indicated that the mean scores of social support were 20.19 ± 6.98 and 1.92 ± 3.18 for anxiety, and 6.24 ± 5.03 for depression; besides, 33.3% of participants were very satisfied with elderly caring SOs, 48.5% were satisfied, and only 6.0% were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied. Comorbid chronic diseases were significantly associated with depression. Institutional satisfaction was directly negatively related to depression, whereas anxiety was directly positively correlated with depression. Social support had an indirect negative association with depression by the mediating effects of institutional satisfaction and anxiety.

Conclusions:The study highlights the importance of social support in maintaining mental health among hypertension patients residing in elderly caring SOs. To alleviate depression among hypertension patients in elderly caring SOs, strategies that target enhancing social support, institutional satisfaction, and anxiety reduction should be prioritized. More importantly, more attention should be paid to patients with comorbid chronic diseases.
Emotional Dysregulation in Children and Adolescents With Psychiatric Disorders. A Narrative Review
Authors: Paulus Frank W. , Ohmann Susanne , Möhler Eva , Plener Paul , Popow Christian
Published: October 2021

Background:Emotional dysregulation (ED) is a transdiagnostic construct defined as the inability to regulate the intensity and quality of emotions (such as, fear, anger, sadness), in order to generate an appropriate emotional response, to handle excitability, mood instability, and emotional overreactivity, and to come down to an emotional baseline. Because ED has not been defined as a clinical entity, and because ED plays a major role in child and adolescent psychopathology, we decided to summarize current knowledge on this topic based on a narrative review of the current literature.

Methods:This narrative review is based on a literature search of peer-reviewed journals. We searched the databases ERIC, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO and PSYNDEX on June 2, 2020 for peer reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2020 in English language for the preschool, school, and adolescent age (2–17 years) using the following search terms: “emotional dysregulation” OR “affect dysregulation,” retrieving 943 articles.

Results:The results of the literature search are presented in the following sections: the relationship between ED and psychiatric disorders (ADHD, Mood Disorders, Psychological Trauma, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Non-suicidal Self-Injury, Eating Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Disruptive Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Personality Disorders, Substance Use Disorder, Developmental Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Psychosis and Schizophrenia, and Gaming Disorder), prevention, and treatment of ED.

Conclusion:Basic conditions of ED are genetic disposition, the experience of trauma, especially sexual or physical abuse, emotional neglect in childhood or adolescence, and personal stress. ED is a complex construct and a comprehensive concept, aggravating a number of various mental disorders. Differential treatment is mandatory for individual and social functioning.
Kaplan-Meier Type Survival Curves for COVID-19: A Health Data Based Decision-Making Tool
Authors: Calabuig J. M. , García-Raffi L. M. , García-Valiente A. , Sánchez-Pérez E. A.
Published: October 2021

Countries are recording health information on the global spread of COVID-19 using different methods, sometimes changing the rules after a few days. All of them are publishing the number of new individuals infected, recovered and dead individuals, along with some supplementary material. These data are often recorded in a non-uniform manner and do not conform the standard definitions of these variables. In this paper we show that, using data from the first wave of the epidemic (February-June), Kaplan-Meier curves calculated with them could provide useful information on the dynamics of the disease in different countries. We developed our scheme based on the cumulative total number of infected, recovered and dead individuals provided by the countries. We present a robust and simple model to show certain characteristics of the evolution of the dynamic process, showing that the differences in evolution between countries are reflected in the corresponding Kaplan-Meier-type curves. We compare the curves obtained for the most affected countries at that time, with the corresponding interpretation of the properties that distinguish them. The model is revealed as a practical tool for countries in the management of the Healthcare System.
A Local Health Situation Room for COVID-19: Recommendations for Decision-Making From a Higher Education Institution in Mexico
Authors: Ramos Herrera Igor Martín , Romero Lozano Diana Core , López Corona Adolfo , Muñoz Valle José Francisco , González Castañeda Miguel Ernesto , Pérez Gómez Héctor Raúl , Kasten Monges Marina de Jesús , Ramos Solano Moisés , Ruvalcaba Romero Norma Alicia , Pérez Ávila Fabian Alejandro , Yokogawa Teraoka Patricia , Macedo Ojeda Gabriela
Published: October 2021

Introduction: The Situation Room is a physical or virtual space where experts systematically analyze information to characterize a health situation, especially during emergencies. Decision-making processes are made toward solving health needs and promoting collaboration among institutions and social sectors. This paper presents the context and circumstances that led the University of Guadalajara (UdeG) to install a local health situation room (HSR) to address the COVID-19 pandemic at this institution based in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, a narrative is also made of its working processes and some of its results.

Methods: The design of this situation room for COVID-19 was based on the methodology established by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/WHO. This local-type situation room was installed on February 12, 2020. The health problem was characterized, and strategic lines, objectives, and goals were established; the first analysis was derived from an action plan deployed at the UdeG. The strategic lines were situational diagnosis, preventive actions, and containment strategies.

Results: The situation room influenced the activities of the UdeG before the epidemic cases started in the state. One of the actions with the greatest impact was developing a mathematical model for predicting COVID-19 cases. Subsequently, new models have been developed according to the epidemiological evolution of the disease, helping manage the epidemic in the state. Another important result was the early closing of face-to-face university activities, reducing contagion risks and the mobility of more than 310,000 students, faculty, and administrative personnel throughout Jalisco.

Conclusions: A consequence of the closure was that the confinement generated by the pandemic was the change to virtual meetings from April 2020 to date; but at the same time, this working format was a strength, since it influenced the decision of the university board to change all the academic activities to virtual format before other educational, economic, and social activities in the state did. By April 2020, the situation room transcended its institutional boundaries and was invited to participate at the Jalisco State's Health Committee. Its recommendations have helped to maintain the state with one of Mexico's lowest COVID-19 incidence and mortality rates.
Persistent Object Search and Surveillance Control With Safety Certificates for Drone Networks Based on Control Barrier Functions
Authors: Dan Hayato , Hatanaka Takeshi , Yamauchi Junya , Shimizu Takumi , Fujita Masayuki
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we address a persistent object search and surveillance mission for drone networks equipped with onboard cameras, and present a safe control strategy based on control barrier functions The mission for the object search and surveillance in this paper is defined with two subtasks, persistent search and object surveillance, which should be flexibly switched depending on the situation. Besides, to ensure actual persistency of the mission, we incorporate two additional specifications, safety (collision avoidance) and energy persistency (battery charging), into the mission. To rigorously describe the subtask of persistent search, we present a novel notion of γ-level persistent search and the performance certificate function as a candidate of a time-varying Control Barrier Function. We then design a constraint-based controller by combining the performance certificate function with other CBFs that individually reflect other specifications. In order to manage conflicts among the specifications, the present controller prioritizes individual specifications in the order of safety, energy persistency, and persistent search/object surveillance. The present controller is finally demonstrated through simulation and experiments on a testbed.
Spatial Presence in Mixed Realities–Considerations About the Concept, Measures, Design, and Experiments
Authors: Wienrich Carolin , Komma Philipp , Vogt Stephanie , Latoschik Marc E.
Published: October 2021

Plenty of theories, models, measures, and investigations target the understanding of virtual presence, i.e., the sense of presence in immersive Virtual Reality (VR). Other varieties of the so-called eXtended Realities (XR), e.g., Augmented and Mixed Reality (AR and MR) incorporate immersive features to a lesser degree and continuously combine spatial cues from the real physical space and the simulated virtual space. This blurred separation questions the applicability of the accumulated knowledge about the similarities of virtual presence and presence occurring in other varieties of XR, and corresponding outcomes. The present work bridges this gap by analyzing the construct of presence in mixed realities (MR). To achieve this, the following presents (1) a short review of definitions, dimensions, and measurements of presence in VR, and (2) the state of the art views on MR. Additionally, we (3) derived a working definition of MR, extending the Milgram continuum. This definition is based on entities reaching from real to virtual manifestations at one time point. Entities possess different degrees of referential power, determining the selection of the frame of reference. Furthermore, we (4) identified three research desiderata, including research questions about the frame of reference, the corresponding dimension of transportation, and the dimension of realism in MR. Mainly the relationship between the main aspects of virtual presence of immersive VR, i.e., the place-illusion, and the plausibility-illusion, and of the referential power of MR entities are discussed regarding the concept, measures, and design of presence in MR. Finally, (5) we suggested an experimental setup to reveal the research heuristic behind experiments investigating presence in MR. The present work contributes to the theories and the meaning of and approaches to simulate and measure presence in MR. We hypothesize that research about essential underlying factors determining user experience (UX) in MR simulations and experiences is still in its infancy and hopes this article provides an encouraging starting point to tackle related questions.
Personality and Team Identification Predict Violent Intentions Among Soccer Supporters
Authors: Lindström Joanna
Published: October 2021

Soccer supporter violence remains a persistent global problem. The majority of research examining the psychological underpinnings of soccer supporter violence have focused primarily on the role of team identification. Relatively little research has examined the role of basic personality traits and willingness to engage in violence amongst soccer supporters. In a study amongst Swedish soccer supporters (N = 247), we examined whether honesty-humility and team identification predict violent behavioral intentions; examining if collective narcissism mediates these associations. Honesty-humility negatively predicted violent intentions, and team identification predicted violent intentions. Collective narcissism partially mediated these associations. When both Honesty-humility and team identification are accounted for though, collective narcissism did not predict violent intentions. Such findings have implications for the design of violence prevention interventions amongst soccer supporters.