bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct GmASMTs are involved in regulating transcription factors and signalling cross-talk across embryo development, biotic, and abiotic stress in soybean
Authors: Kumar Gyanendra , Arya Monisha , Padma Radhika , Puthusseri Bijesh , Giridhar Parvatam
Published: August 2022

N-Acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (ASMT) is the final enzyme involved in melatonin biosynthesis. Identifying the expression of ASMT will reveal the regulatory role in the development and stress conditions in soybean. To identify and characterize ASMT in soybean (GmASMT), we employed genome-wide analysis, gene structure, cis-acting elements, gene expression, co-expression network analysis, and enzyme assay. We found seven pairs of segmental and tandem duplication pairs among the 44 identified GmASMTs by genome-wide analysis. Notably, co-expression network analysis reported that distinct GmASMTs are involved in various stress response. For example, GmASMT3, GmASMT44, GmASMT17, and GmASMT7 are involved in embryo development, heat, drought, aphid, and soybean cyst nematode infections, respectively. These distinct networks of GmASMTs were associated with transcription factors (NAC, MYB, WRKY, and ERF), stress signalling, isoflavone and secondary metabolites, calcium, and calmodulin proteins involved in stress regulation. Further, GmASMTs demonstrated auxin-like activities by regulating the genes involved in auxin transporter (WAT1 and NRT1/PTR) and auxin-responsive protein during developmental and biotic stress. The current study identified the key regulatory role of GmASMTs during development and stress. Hence GmASMT could be the primary target in genetic engineering for crop improvement under changing environmental conditions.
The sorting of cargo proteins in the plant trans-Golgi network
Authors: Shimizu Yutaro , Uemura Tomohiro
Published: August 2022

Membrane trafficking contributes to distinct protein compositions of organelles and is essential for proper organellar maintenance and functions. The trans-Golgi network (TGN) acts as a sorting station where various cargo proteins are sorted and directed to post-Golgi compartments, such as the multivesicular body or pre-vacuolar compartment, vacuoles, and plasma membrane. The spatial and temporal segregation of cargo proteins within the TGN, which is mediated with different sets of regulators including small GTPases and cargo adaptors, is a fundamental process in the sorting machinery. Recent studies with powerful imaging technologies have suggested that the TGN possesses spatially distinct subdomains or zones for different trafficking pathways. In this review, we will summarize the spatially and dynamically characteristic features of the plant TGN and their relation to cargo protein trafficking.
Pro-life vs. pro-choice in a resurgent nation: The case of post-Soviet Armenia
Authors: Lopatina Sofia , Kostenko Veronica , Ponarin Eduard
Published: August 2022

A backlash against liberal gender and sexuality attitudes has been an issue in many societies, especially post-Communist. However, it takes a different shape in each socio–cultural context. This article contributes to academic debates about neo-traditionalism in the post-Soviet space and focuses specifically on Armenia. It points at some possible mechanisms that make these societies look more neo-traditionalist than they actually are. From the previous research of gender aspects of nationalism, we argue that the neo-traditionalist public discourses in Armenia might be a by-product of the national identity construction. We conclude that the individual-choice attitudes in the post-Soviet space may reflect the respondents' acceptance of a national ideology promoted by the post-Soviet elites rather than their private practices. Our aim is to reveal the complexities of neo-traditionalism in the post-Soviet space where everyday practices are at odds with neo-traditionalist narratives, which we argue might be a result of the Soviet legacy of unwritten rules and open secrets.
Interference effects of radical markings and stroke order animations on Chinese character learning among L2 learners
Authors: Hou Fengyun , Jiang Xin
Published: August 2022

There is controversy around whether presenting sub-character units such as radicals and strokes are beneficial to L2 Chinese learning. The present study explored the effects of radical markings (i.e., marked radicals with different colors) and stroke order animations on learning Chinese characters. Forty Chinese L2 learners with native alphabetic languages were divided into high-and low-level groups. They were first required to learn Chinese characters under four conditions either: (a) presented radical markings with stroke animations; (b) presented no radical markings with stroke animations; (c) presented radical markings without stroke animations; or (d) presented neither radical markings nor stroke animations. After learning, the participants were given character recognition and character-meaning matching tests. Results showed that the presentation of radical markings increased the participants’ reaction times in the character recognition test and decreased their recognition accuracy. Moreover, presenting stroke order animations also decreased the participants’ accuracy in recognizing characters. Beyond that, presenting radical markings and stroke order animations had no significant influence on character-meaning matching tests. These results indicate that providing radical and stroke information might interfere with character learning instead of facilitating character learning. The results suggest that excessive visual information introduced in the learning process may increase L2 learners’ cognition load. Also, the findings contribute to theoretical arguments about the analytic and holistic processing of Chinese characters and the pedagogical implications for teaching Chinese as a second language.
How perceived school culture relates to work engagement among primary and secondary school teachers? Roles of affective empathy and job tenure
Authors: Fu Chunhua , Zhao Zhen , Wang Huimei , Ouyang Mingkun , Mao Xiaoling , Cai Xiao , Tan Xinhua
Published: August 2022

Evidence suggests that perceived school culture is the most powerful predictor of teachers’ work performance. However, studies to date have paid little attention to the potential mechanisms behind this association. On the basis of the job demands–resources (JD–R) model, the present study explored the mediating role of affective empathy and the moderating role of job tenure in the association between perceived school culture and teachers’ work engagement. 647 primary and secondary school teachers completed questionnaires measuring perceived school culture, affective empathy, and work engagement. After gender and educational level were included as covariates, the results showed that perceived school culture positively correlated with teachers’ work engagement, and more importantly, this association was partially mediated by affective empathy. In addition, job tenure significantly moderated the direct association between perceived school culture and work engagement. Specifically, there was a stronger association between perceived school culture and work engagement for teachers with shorter job tenure than those with longer job tenure. The findings suggested the direct effect of perceived school culture on work engagement, and the indirect effect of perceived school culture on work engagement through the mediating role of affective empathy. These findings enrich our understanding of how perceived school culture associates with work engagement, and highlight the moderating role of job tenure in the direct association between perceived school culture and work engagement.
Behavioral intention to use distance teaching in the pandemic era
Authors: Tseng Chih-Hung , Wang Ching-Tang , Hsu Chin-Hsien , Liu Jing-Wei
Published: August 2022

This study aimed at exploring the impact of post-epidemic era on teachers’ behavioral intention of distance education. In this study, purposive sampling method was used to enroll 390 teachers in colleges and universities, high schools and vocational schools, and junior high and elementary schools to be the research subjects for the questionnaire survey. A total of 360 questionnaires were collected for statistics, and AMOS 23.0 statistical software was used to analyze the correlation between variables. Meanwhile, a structural equation model was used to analyze and verify the impact of the technology acceptance model, information system success model, and diffusion of innovations theory. According to the results, the system quality of distance teaching platforms certainly affected perceived usefulness, and perceived usefulness affected teachers’ attitudes toward using distance teaching systems. In addition, perceived ease of use had an impact on perceived usefulness, and trialability had an impact on teachers’ attitudes toward using distance teaching systems. Finally, teachers’ attitude toward using a distance teaching system also affected their behavioral intention. According to the results, suggestions were made in this study to teachers and students for distance teaching. Additionally, the main contribution of this study lies in providing specific strategies for further distance teaching through empirical results in combination with on-site teaching.
Understanding gift-giving in game live streaming on Douyu: An evaluation of PSR/social presence
Authors: Zhang Wenchi
Published: August 2022

In China, live streaming has grown rapidly in recent years, with gift-giving, a unique business model in live streaming, driving the development of many industries. This article explores the association between gift-giving behavior in game live streaming and viewers' live streaming experience. Specifically, this study aims to explore the correlation between Para-social Relationships, Social Presence, and gift-giving in the context of China. Based on the survey and interview of the viewer on Douyu, a Chinese live streaming platform, this study found that there is only a weak to a medium correlation between para-social relationships and viewers' gift-giving behavior. The correlation between social presence and gift-giving was even weaker. Although the conclusion of this study may be affected by the sample size limitation, it can still provide a reference for the current research on gift-giving on Chinese live streaming platforms.
Analysis of physical education based on deep learning on college students’ mental health and social adaptability
Authors: Wu Chao , Liu Ge
Published: August 2022

With the development of learning abroad, deep learning is used in research fields. On the basis of deep learning, this article studies physical education. First, this article analyzes and explains the related concepts and current situation of physical education, and explains the measurement and definition of the mental health. Then, the function analysis algorithm of deep learning is explained and analyzed, in which the algorithm of the convolution neural network of deep learning is mainly described. Finally, through experimental analysis, it shows that the research performance of deep learning in the physical education on college students’ mental health is relatively high. At the same time, through investigation and analysis, it is proposed that physical education in deep learning can improve mental health and social adaptability relatively high. And the content of physical education should focus on increasing physical psychological education and physical practice education, which can improve college students’ mental health and social adaptability compared with other teaching contents. Therefore, when introducing deep learning, universities should strengthen the physical education of college students.
Psychological health correlation of express delivery workers’ occupational stress in the information logistics environment
Authors: Lin Meishun
Published: August 2022

With the promotion of the Internet of Things technology, more and more industries have begun to combine with the Internet of Things technology. After joining the WTO, China’s market economy has continued to deepen. During this period, the e-commerce industry has developed rapidly, which has promoted the rise of the express delivery industry. While the rise of the industry provides jobs for employees, it also brings enormous pressure to employees. Due to the occupational stress of various stressors in the express delivery industry, a series of psychological problems have been caused. “Occupational stress” is also called occupational stress, which refers to the physiological and psychological stress caused by the imbalance between objective needs and personal adaptability in a certain occupational environment. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a correlation study on the psychological health of express delivery workers’ occupational stress in the information logistics environment. It is expected to explore the relationship between occupational stress and mental health of couriers in the context of informatization, so as to provide employees with a better working environment and reduce personal stress. Logistics informatization means that logistics enterprises use modern information technology to collect, classify, transmit, summarize, identify, track, and query all or part of the information generated in the logistics process, so as to realize the control of the flow of goods. This paper analyzed the inventory of express companies, and reasonably analyzed the profit composition of the inventory link, then used a more reasonable time series seasonal coefficient method to predict the amount of incoming shipments. This paper used a combination of theoretical and empirical methods to discuss the psychological health and occupational stress of express delivery workers and to explore the relationship between the two. The experiment results of this paper showed that in the interpersonal sensitivity analysis, the coefficient of occupational stress is 0.052, and the degree of occupational stress is proportional to interpersonal sensitivity. The higher the occupational stress, the higher the interpersonal sensitivity index. The coefficient of occupational stress is-0.31. Occupational stress is inversely proportional to age. The older the age, the lower the interpersonal sensitivity index.
Mental health interventions for adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review
Authors: Mabrouk Adam , Mbithi Gideon , Chongwo Esther , Too Ezra , Sarki Ahmed , Namuguzi Mary , Atukwatse Joseph , Ssewanyana Derrick , Abubakar Amina
Published: August 2022

Background

Globally, adolescents are vulnerable to mental health problems, particularly those from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to impoverished living conditions and a higher prevalence of chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS in the region. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this risk. This calls for an urgent need for evidence-based adolescent mental health interventions to reduce the risk and burden of mental health problems in SSA. The review aims to identify and characterize existing adolescent mental health interventions in SSA, as well as to evaluate their implementation strategies and effectiveness.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, African Index Medicus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases for relevant articles. Furthermore, we searched gray literature databases, including Think Tank search, open gray, NGO search engine, and IGO search engine for additional relevant articles. The scoping review was conducted to identify original research articles on mental health interventions among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa published from database inception to 31 December 2021. We carried out a narrative synthesis to report our findings.

Results

Our literature search generated 4,750 studies, of which 1,141 were duplicates, 3,545 were excluded after screening, and 64 articles met the inclusion criteria. The 64 studies describe a total of 57 unique mental health interventions comprising 40,072 adolescents. The nature of these interventions was diverse, encompassing various implementation strategies such as economic-based, family strengthening, psychoeducation, interpersonal psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and resilience training, among others. Most of the interventions were selective interventions that targeted adolescents at high risk of developing mental health problems including adolescents living with HIV, war-affected adolescents, orphans, adolescents from poorer backgrounds, and survivors of sexual violence. Half of the interventions were delivered by lay persons. Sixty-two of the eligible studies examined the effectiveness of the mental health interventions, of which 55 of them reported a positive significant impact on various mental health outcomes.

Conclusions

The review findings show that there exist several diverse interventions that promote mental health among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. These interventions can be implemented in diverse settings including schools, communities, health facilities, and camps, and can be delivered by lay persons.
Acceptability and satisfaction with emma, a smartphone application dedicated to suicide ecological assessment and prevention
Authors: Morgiève Margot , Yasri Daniel , Genty Catherine , Dubois Jonathan , Leboyer Marion , Vaiva Guillaume , Berrouiguet Sofian , Azé Jérôme , Courtet Philippe
Published: August 2022

Background

As mHealth may contribute to suicide prevention, we developed emma, an application using Ecological Momentary Assessment and Intervention (EMA/EMI).

Objective

This study evaluated emma usage rate and acceptability during the first month and satisfaction after 1 and 6 months of use.

Methods

Ninety-nine patients at high risk of suicide used emma for 6 months. The acceptability and usage rate of the EMA and EMI modules were monitored during the first month. Satisfaction was assessed by questions in the monthly EMA (Likert scale from 0 to 10) and the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS; score: 0–5) completed at month 6. After inclusion, three follow-up visits (months 1, 3, and 6) took place.

Results

Seventy-five patients completed at least one of the proposed EMAs. Completion rates were lower for the daily than weekly EMAs (60 and 82%, respectively). The daily completion rates varied according to the question position in the questionnaire (lower for the last questions, LRT = 604.26, df = 1, p-value < 0.0001). Completion rates for the daily EMA were higher in patients with suicidal ideation and/or depression than in those without. The most used EMI was the emergency call module (n = 12). Many users said that they would recommend this application (mean satisfaction score of 6.92 ± 2.78) and the MARS score at month 6 was relatively high (overall rating: 3.3 ± 0.87).

Conclusion

Emma can target and involve patients at high risk of suicide. Given the promising users’ satisfaction level, emma could rapidly evolve into a complementary tool for suicide prevention.
Interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in youth with mood disorders—A longitudinal study
Authors: Skibinska Maria , Rajewska-Rager Aleksandra , Dmitrzak-Weglarz Monika , Kapelski Pawel , Lepczynska Natalia , Kaczmarek Mariusz , Pawlak Joanna
Published: August 2022

Bipolar disorder (BD) is one of the most disabling psychiatric illnesses. Over half of BD patients experienced early onset of the disease, and in most cases, it begins with a depressed mood episode. Up to 50% of adolescents initially diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) convert to bipolar spectrum disorder. Diagnostic tools or biomarkers to facilitate the prediction of diagnosis conversion from MDD to BD are still lacking. Our study aimed to find biomarkers of diagnosis conversion in young patients with mood disorders. We performed a 2-year follow-up study on 69 adolescent patients diagnosed with MDD or BD. The control group consisted of 31 healthy youths. We monitored diagnosis change from MDD to BD. Impulsiveness was assessed using Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) and defense mechanisms using Defense Style Questionnaire (DSQ-40). According to the immunological hypothesis of mood disorders, we investigated baseline cytokines levels either in depressive or hypomanic/manic episodes. We correlated interleukin 8 (IL-8) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) levels with clinical factors. We detected higher IL-8 and TNF-alpha in patients in hypomanic/manic compared to depressed episodes. We found correlations of cytokine levels with immature defense style. We did not discover predictors of diagnosis conversion from MDD to BD.
The effect of antipsychotics on glutamate levels in the anterior cingulate cortex and clinical response: A 1H-MRS study in first-episode psychosis patients
Authors: Zahid Uzma , McCutcheon Robert A. , Borgan Faith , Jauhar Sameer , Pepper Fiona , Nour Matthew M. , Rogdaki Maria , Osugo Martin , Murray Graham K. , Hathway Pamela , Murray Robin M. , Egerton Alice , Howes Oliver D.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Glutamatergic dysfunction is implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. It is unclear whether glutamatergic dysfunction predicts response to treatment or if antipsychotic treatment influences glutamate levels. We investigated the effect of antipsychotic treatment on glutamatergic levels in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and whether there is a relationship between baseline glutamatergic levels and clinical response after antipsychotic treatment in people with first episode psychosis (FEP).

Materials and methods

The sample comprised 25 FEP patients; 22 completed magnetic resonance spectroscopy scans at both timepoints. Symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS).

Results

There was no significant change in glutamate [baseline 13.23 ± 2.33; follow-up 13.89 ± 1.74; t(21) = −1.158, p = 0.260], or Glx levels [baseline 19.64 ± 3.26; follow-up 19.66 ± 2.65; t(21) = −0.034, p = 0.973]. There was no significant association between glutamate or Glx levels at baseline and the change in PANSS positive (Glu r = 0.061, p = 0.777, Glx r = −0.152, p = 0.477), negative (Glu r = 0.144, p = 0.502, Glx r = 0.052, p = 0.811), general (Glu r = 0.110, p = 0.607, Glx r = −0.212, p = 0.320), or total scores (Glu r = 0.078, p = 0.719 Glx r = −0.155, p = 0.470).

Conclusion

These findings indicate that treatment response is unlikely to be associated with baseline glutamatergic metabolites prior to antipsychotic treatment, and there is no major effect of antipsychotic treatment on glutamatergic metabolites in the ACC.
The mediating role of transmembrane protein 132D methylation in predicting the occurrence of panic disorder in physical abuse
Authors: Yu Qianmei , Wang Chiyue , Xu Huazheng , Wu Yun , Ding Huachen , Liu Na , Zhang Ning , Wang Chun
Published: August 2022

Objective

Genome Wide Association study (GWAS) has revealed that the transmembrane protein 132D (TMEM132D) is a gene of sensitive for panic disorder (PD). As the main type of childhood trauma experience, childhood abuse has become a public health issue attracting much attention at home and abroad, and has been proved to be a risk factor for the onset of PD. However, how it affects the occurrence and development of panic disorder has not yet been revealed. We examined the relationship between TMEM132D methylation, childhood abuse and symptoms based on this finding.

Materials and methods

Thirty-two patients with PD and 22 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited after age, gender, and the education level were matched. The DNA methylation levels of CpG sites across the genome were examined with genomic DNA samples (PD, N = 32, controls, N = 22) extracted from subjects’ elbow venous blood. A mediation model was used to explore the relationship between the methylation degree of different CpG sites and childhood maltreatment and clinical symptoms.

Results

We found that the PD group had significantly lower methylation at CpG1, CpG2, CpG3, CpG4, CpG5, CpG6, CpG7, CpG8, CpG11, CpG14, and CpG18 than did the HCs (p < 0.05). The CpG2 (r = 0.5953, p = 0.0117) site in the priming region of TEME132D gene were positively associated with PDSS score. The CpG2 (r = 0.4889, p = 0.046) site in the priming region of TEME132D gene were positively associated with physical abuse. Furthermore, path analyses showed that the methylation of CpG2 of TMEM132D played a fully mediating role in the relationship between physical abuse and PD symptom severity (95

Conclusion

Childhood abuse experiences, especially physical abuse, are significantly related to PD. The methylation of CpG2 of TMEM132D was shown to have a fully mediating effect between panic disorder and physical abuse. The interaction between TMEM132D methylation and physical abuse can predict panic disorder.
Current status and capacity of pathogen laboratories in centers for disease control and prevention in China during the COVID-19 pandemic: A nationwide cross-sectional survey
Authors: Wang Ji , Niu Peihua , Zhang Ruiqing , Li Jingyi , Nie Mingzhu , Ma Xuejun
Published: August 2022

The pathogen laboratory (p-lab) is the core and primary department of centers for disease control and prevention (CDCs) in China to respond to infectious disease outbreaks such as COVID-19. To understand the current status and capacity of p-labs in Chinese CDCs during the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey among 399 respondents from 239 CDCs. Differences in the current status of p-labs in CDCs of provinces, cities, and counties mainly comprised laboratory equipment, IEIs, mastery of personal occupational skills, and maximum detection capacity. Most CDCs reported a lack of staff and funds for personnel, which should be a priority in China's upcoming public health reform. The development of sequencing technologies has received considerable attention in CDCs. These are mainly used to study respiratory viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2. The COVID-19 pandemic has driven development of the CDCs in China, and personnel and funds are considered key factors in improving the detection capacity of CDC p-labs.
Let There Be Light—Digital Eye Strain (DES) in Children as a Shadow Pandemic in the Era of COVID-19: A Mini Review
Authors: Bhattacharya Sudip , Heidler Petra , Saleem Sheikh Mohd , Marzo Roy Rillera
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Digital eye strain, which is often ignored by the public, has emerged as a “Shadow Pandemic” in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aim

The current paper is aimed at discussing the ill effect of digital screens on eyes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology

A literature search was done using “PubMed,” “Google scholar”, and “Scopus” using key terms like “Digital Eye Strain,” “Eyestrain,” or “Computer Vision Syndrome.” Relevant articles were identified and included to support the argument for this narrative review.

Results

Studies conducted in the UK reported that 68% of children extensively use computers, while 54% undertake online activities after the age of 3. Similar studies estimated 4 h and 45 min per day of screen exposure time among adults in the UK. Indian studies reveal that the prevalence of DES is 69% in adults and 50% in children respectively. Indian ophthalmologists found that computer-using and specialized ophthalmologists were more informed of symptoms and diagnostic signs but were misinformed about treatment modalities. The use of social media and multitasking is particularly prominent among younger adults, with 87% of individuals aged 20–29 years reporting the use of two or more digital devices simultaneously. It has been observed that the use of computer glasses corrects refractive errors and helps in the reduction of symptoms, while precision spectral filters help in reducing symptoms of micro-fluctuation of accommodation.

Conclusion

We concluded that DES is emerging globally as a “Shadow Pandemic” and it is high time to respond. Community ophthalmologists, public health authorities, and educational sectors especially should be involved to prevent this.
The quality of Syrian healthcare services during COVID-19: A HEALTHQUAL approach
Authors: Allahham Lilas , Mouselli Sulaiman , Jakovljevic Mihajlo
Published: August 2022

Syria is a developing country that face enormous healthcare challenges that aggravated with the outbreak of COVID-19. In the study, we evaluate the perceived healthcare service quality based on hospital type, public and private, using five HEALTHQUAL dimensions. We find that service quality in Syrian private hospitals is perceived better that in public hospitals. However, neither type of hospitals scores exceptionally high in any of the examined HEALTHQUAL dimensions. On the contrary, both hospitals score extremely low in the Improvement dimension. We argue that crowdedness environment, medical staff availability and their low salaries, pricing policies as well as the health insurance system, are to blame for such low perceived quality.
Application of Artificial Intelligence to Plasma Metabolomics Profiles to Predict Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Irajizad Ehsan , Wu Ranran , Vykoukal Jody , Murage Eunice , Spencer Rachelle , Dennison Jennifer B. , Moulder Stacy , Ravenberg Elizabeth , Lim Bora , Litton Jennifer , Tripathym Debu , Valero Vicente , Damodaran Senthil , Rauch Gaiane M. , Adrada Beatriz , Candelaria Rosalind , White Jason B. , Brewster Abenaa , Arun Banu , Long James P. , Do Kim Anh , Hanash Sam , Fahrmann Johannes F.
Published: August 2022

There is a need to identify biomarkers predictive of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We previously obtained evidence that a polyamine signature in the blood is associated with TNBC development and progression. In this study, we evaluated whether plasma polyamines and other metabolites may identify TNBC patients who are less likely to respond to NACT. Pre-treatment plasma levels of acetylated polyamines were elevated in TNBC patients that had moderate to extensive tumor burden (RCB-II/III) following NACT compared to those that achieved a complete pathological response (pCR/RCB-0) or had minimal residual disease (RCB-I). We further applied artificial intelligence to comprehensive metabolic profiles to identify additional metabolites associated with treatment response. Using a deep learning model (DLM), a metabolite panel consisting of two polyamines as well as nine additional metabolites was developed for improved prediction of RCB-II/III. The DLM has potential clinical value for identifying TNBC patients who are unlikely to respond to NACT and who may benefit from other treatment modalities.
Rare disease-based scientific annotation knowledge graph
Authors: Zhu Qian , Qu Chunxu , Liu Ruizheng , Vatas Gunjan , Clough Andrew , Nguyễn Ðắc-Trung , Sid Eric , Mathé Ewy , Xu Yanji
Published: August 2022

Rare diseases (RDs) are naturally associated with a low prevalence rate, which raises a big challenge due to there being less data available for supporting preclinical and clinical studies. There has been a vast improvement in our understanding of RD, largely owing to advanced big data analytic approaches in genetics/genomics. Consequently, a large volume of RD-related publications has been accumulated in recent years, which offers opportunities to utilize these publications for accessing the full spectrum of the scientific research and supporting further investigation in RD. In this study, we systematically analyzed, semantically annotated, and scientifically categorized RD-related PubMed articles, and integrated those semantic annotations in a knowledge graph (KG), which is hosted in Neo4j based on a predefined data model. With the successful demonstration of scientific contribution in RD via the case studies performed by exploring this KG, we propose to extend the current effort by expanding more RD-related publications and more other types of resources as a next step.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer therapy: Review of orofacial adverse events and role of the oral healthcare provider
Authors: Klein Brittany A. , Shazib Muhammad Ali , Villa Alessandro , de Abreu Alves Fábio , Vacharotayangul Piamkamon , Sonis Stephen , Fedele Stefano , Treister Nathaniel S.
Published: August 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a revolutionary class of antineoplastic therapy that restore anti-tumor immunity. Consequences of this enhanced immune response include a multitude of immune related adverse events (irAEs) that can affect any body system, including the mouth. Orofacial irAEs reproduce features of numerous immune-mediated conditions, including oral lichen planus, mucous membrane pemphigoid, and Sjögren syndrome, among others. The aim of this review is to summarize known orofacial irAEs and to familiarize oral healthcare providers with how to identify and manage these toxicities as part of the care team for patients treated with ICIs.
Estimation of the Madeira floodplain dynamics from 2008 to 2018
Authors: Guilhen Jérémy , Parrens Marie , Sauvage Sabine , Santini William , Mercier Franck , Al Bitar Ahmad , Fabre Clément , Martinez Jean-Michel , Sànchez-Pérez José-Miguel
Published: August 2022

The Madeira is one of the major tributaries of the Amazon River and is characterized by a large alluvial floodplain throughout the stream continuum. This study aims to better assess the hydrological functioning of the Madeira Basin over its alluvial floodplains at both local and global scales. We used the semi-distributed hydrological Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model to simulate water discharge at a daily time step and water resources for each hydrological compartment. A new hydraulic module for water routing was implemented in the SWAT model considering the floodplain either as a simple reservoir or as a continuum where the water can flow along with the floodplain network. Both water surface estimated by L-band passive microwaves (SWAF data) and digital elevation model—shuttle radar topography mission (DEM–SRTM data) were used to delineate the floodplain, as inputs for the model. On the global scale, the amount of water stored in the Madeira floodplain is between 810 ± 230 km3 per year when the floodplains are delimited with SWAF and 1,300 ± 350 km3 per year with the DEM floodplain delineation between 2008 and 2018. Spatial altimetry (Jason 2-3) data were also applied to alluvial areas to validate the water height dynamic in floodplains at a local scale. Results show that more than 60% of the alluvial validation points display a correlation above 0.40 ± 0.02 regardless of the floodplain delineation. This study permits us to better characterize the spatio-temporal storage dynamics of the Madeira floodplains at both local and global scales, and it underlines the importance of a precise floodplain delineation, before computing biogeochemical fluxes and sediment yield.
Musical feedback system Jymmin® leads to enhanced physical endurance in the elderly—A feasibility study
Authors: Rehfeld Kathrin , Fritz Thomas Hans , Prinz Alexander , Schneider Lydia , Villringer Arno , Witte Kerstin
Published: August 2022

Background and objectives

Active music-making in combination with physical exercise has evoked several positive effects in users of different age groups. These include enhanced mood, muscular effectivity, pain threshold, and decreased perceived exertion. The present study tested the applicability of this musical feedback system, called Jymmin®, in combination with strength-endurance exercises in a population of healthy older adults.

Research design and methods

Sixteen healthy, physically inactive older adults (5 males, 11 females) at the mean age of 70 years performed physical exercise in two conditions: A conventional work-out while listening passively music and a Jymmin® work-out, where musical sounds were created with one's work-out movements. According to the hypothesis that strength-endurance is increased during musical feedback exercise, parameters relating to strength-endurance were assessed, including exercise duration, number of repetitions, perceived exertion (RPE), and participants' mental state (Multidimensional Mood State Questionnaire; MDMQ).

Results

Results show that participants exercised significantly longer while doing Jymmin® (Mdn = 248.75 s) as compared to the conventional work-out (Mdn = 182.73 s), (Z = 3.408, p = 0.001). The RPE did not differ between conventional work-out and the Jymmin® condition, even though participants worked out significantly longer during the Jymmin® condition (Mdn = 14.50; Z = −0.905; p = 0.366). The results of the MDMQ showed no significant differences between both conditions (Z = −1.037; p = 0.300).

Discussion and implications

Results show that participants could work out longer while showing the same perceived exertion, relating to increased physical endurance. Music feedback work-out encouraged a greater degree of isometric contractions (muscle actively held at fixed length) and, therefore, less repetitions in this condition. In addition to the previously described effect on muscle effectivity, this non-stereotypic contraction pattern during music feedback training may have enhanced endurance in participants supporting them to better proportion energetic reserves during training (pacing).

Clinical trial registration

Identifier: DRKS00023645.
In vitro and in vivo Studies of Soybean Peptides on Milk Production, Rumen Fermentation, Ruminal Bacterial Community, and Blood Parameters in Lactating Dairy Cows
Authors: Xie Tian , Kong Fanlin , Wang Wei , Wang Yajing , Yang Hongjian , Cao Zhijun , Li Shengli
Published: August 2022

Soybean peptides (SPs), a feed additive derived from soybean, exhibit nutritional function and biological activity in monogastric animals, but limited studies have been conducted in dairy cows. Our experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of SPs on the nutrient degradability of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) in vitro and milk production, rumen fermentation and bacterial community, and blood parameters of dairy cows. For in vitro experiment, ruminal fluids were collected from three ruminal cannulated Holstein dairy cows. A total of three levels of SPs (0, 0.38, and 1.92 g/kg DM of SPs) were added to the total mixed ration (TMR). Nutrient degradability and fermentation fluid pH were determined at 24 and 48 h using 3.0 g samples of the substrate. Gas production after 48 h was recorded by an automated trace gas recording system using 0.5 g samples of the substrate. The results showed that DM, NDF, ADF (p < 0.01), and CP (p < 0.05) degradabilities were significantly increased at 1.92 g/kg DM of SPs at 24 h, and asymptotic gas production (p = 0.05) was increased at 48 h. For in vivo experiment, 110 lactating Holstein cows (209.7 ± 65.2 DIM; 37.2 ± 6.4 kg/d milk yield) were randomly assigned to 0 (control group, CON) or 50 g/head/day SPs (SP-supplemented group). Yields of milk (p < 0.05), milk protein (p < 0.05), and milk lactose (0.05 < p < 0.10) increased on SPs supplementation; however, the milk fat percentage decreased (p < 0.05). The concentrations of individual volatile fatty acids (VFAs) (p < 0.05) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) (p < 0.01) were also increased. Rumen bacterial diversity in SP-supplemented cows was higher (p < 0.05). The relative abundances of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Butyrivibrio, Selenomonas, and Shuttleworthia were significantly increased and that of Coprococcus was decreased (p < 0.05). Our results showed that supplementing 1.92 g/kg DM of SPs could improve the nutrient degradability in vitro and 50 g/head/day of SPs could improve milk production and antioxidant ability of dairy cows. The rumen bacterial diversity was also enhanced by SP supplementation.
Investigating the Impact of Grain Subsidy Policy on Farmers’ Green Production Behavior: Recent Evidence from China
Authors: Pan Shilei , Di Chenhui , Chandio Abbas Ali , Sargani Ghulam Raza , Zhang Huaquan
Published: August 2022

This paper investigates how grain subsidy policy (GSP) in farmland transfer affects farmers’ green production behavior (FGPB) for promoting green agricultural development and improving grain subsidy policy. In this study, we used the data of the China Household Finance Survey (CHFS, 2015) and applied the Probit model to discover the impact and mechanism of the GSP on FGPB in farmland transfer. In addition, we also analyzed the mediating effect of farmers’ credit constraints and the moderating effect of farmers’ risk tolerance. The results show that, firstly, grain subsidy to the actual operator of the farmland generally promotes farmers’ excessive fertilizer application behavior, while there is no significant effect on farmers’ excessive pesticide application behavior. Secondly, the mediating effect of farmers’ credit constraints on the impact of GSP on FGPB is not significant. Thirdly, farmers’ risk tolerance plays a significant moderating effect in the impact of GSP on farmers’ excessive fertilizer application behavior. Finally, GSP mainly promotes excessive fertilizer application behavior among farmers in Eastern China.
Analysis of Biophysical Variables in an Onion Crop (Allium cepa L.) with Nitrogen Fertilization by Sentinel-2 Observations
Authors: Casella Alejandra , Orden Luciano , Pezzola Néstor A. , Bellaccomo Carolina , Winschel Cristina I. , Caballero Gabriel R. , Delegido Jesús , Gracia Luis Manuel Navas , Verrelst Jochem
Published: August 2022

The production of onions bulbs (Allium cepa L.) requires a high amount of nitrogen. According to the demand of sustainable agriculture, the information-development and communication technologies allow for improving the efficiency of nitrogen fertilization. In the south of the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, between 8000 and 10,000 hectares per year−1 are cultivated in the districts of Villarino and Patagones. This work aimed to analyze the relationship of biophysical variables: leaf area index (LAI), canopy chlorophyll content (CCC), and canopy cover factor (fCOVER), with the nitrogen fertilization of an intermediate cycle onion crop and its effects on yield. A field trial study with different doses of granulated urea and granulated urea was carried out, where biophysical characteristics were evaluated in the field and in Sentinel-2 satellite observations. Field data correlated well with satellite data, with an R2 of 0.91, 0.96, and 0.85 for LAI, fCOVER, and CCC, respectively. The application of nitrogen in all its doses produced significantly higher yields than the control. The LAI and CCC variables had a positive correlation with yield in the months of November and December. A significant difference was observed between U250 (62 Mg ha−1) and the other treatments. The U500 dose led to a yield increase of 27% compared to U250, while the difference between U750 and U500 was 6%.
Effects of Casein Phosphopeptide-Selenium Complex on the Immune Functions in Beagle Dogs
Authors: Wang Wencan , Xu Ling , Cao Yong , Liu Guo , Lin Qianru , Mao Xin
Published: August 2022

The health of pets is becoming a growing concern for the pet industry and its owners. Immunity is one of the foundational supports for health, thus developing a functional bioactive substance that can boost pets’ immunity is essential. Many studies have shown that casein phosphopeptide (CPP) and selenium (Se) can individually regulate immunity in many species, but there has been no reported research on the immunomodulatory function of casein phosphopeptide–selenium complex (CPP-Se). The objective of this study was to investigate the function of CPP-Se on immunomodulation in dogs. Twenty Beagle dogs were equally divided into two groups and fed either a control snack or a test snack supplemented with 0.03% CPP-Se for 30 days. Anticoagulated blood, serum and peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) were collected from dogs at 0 d, 10 d, 20 d and 30 d to detect the change in the number of immune cells and the expression of cytokine-related mRNAs and proteins. PBL isolated from blood were exposed to CPP-Se in vitro to measure the proliferative responses and cytokine-related mRNAs expression. During the time the test snack was fed, the number of lymphocytes increased significantly, whereas neutrophils and monocytes remained unaltered. The expression of interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), CD4 molecule (CD4) and CD8α molecule (CD8α) was up-regulated, while interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was down-regulated, and interleukin-10 (IL-10) declined initially and subsequently increased. ELISA detection revealed a significant increment in serum IL-4, IL-6, Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IFN-γ, except for IgG. Furthermore, CPP-Se treatment increased the proliferation and the expression of cytokine-related mRNAs in PBL cultured in vitro. This is the first study to demonstrate that CPP-Se can improve immunity in the dog.
Influence of Sugar Beet Pulp Supplementation on Pigs’ Health and Production Quality
Authors: Badaras Sarunas , Klupsaite Dovile , Ruzauskas Modestas , Gruzauskas Romas , Zokaityte Egle , Starkute Vytaute , Mockus Ernestas , Klementaviciute Jolita , Cernauskas Darius , Dauksiene Agila , Vadopalas Laurynas , Bartkiene Elena
Published: August 2022

Fibrous feedstuffs can have a variable effect on pig growth, health and meat quality. The effect of sugar beet pulp (SBP) supplementation in the diet on pork quality has not been widely reported. This study examines the effect of an SBP-supplemented (3%) diet (TG-I group) on 300 Large White/Norwegian Landrace pigs in terms of growth performance, blood parameters, microbial profiling of faeces, carcass parameters and meat quality, including the profiles of biogenic amines (BAs), fatty acids (FAs) and volatile compounds (VCs). After 163 days of the experiment, TG-I pigs had a significantly lower average daily gain and feed conversion ratio than pigs in the control group, as well as a significantly higher percentage of carcasses in the S and KN classes and a lower percentage in the E and U classes (p ≤ 0.05). Faeces of TG-I contained significantly more bacteria that are considered probiotic. Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) were found in most of the blood parameters, FA, VC profile and emotional responses between the two groups. Higher drip loss, protein content and redness, as well as lower cooking loss, intramuscular fat content and lightness were observed in the meat of TG-I. Most of the sensory properties, as well as overall acceptability, were rated higher for the meat of TG-I. Based on the results, a diet containing 3% of SBP could be beneficial for the improvement of pigs’ gut health and pork quality. However, further studies are needed to indicate which compounds of the SBP dietary fiber are responsible for these desirable changes.
Modulatory Effects of Arctostaphylos uva-urs Extract In Ovo Injected into Broiler Embryos Contaminated by Aflatoxin B1
Authors: Elwan Hamada , Mohamed Abdelhameed S. A. , Dawood Dawood Hosni , Elnesr Shaaban S.
Published: August 2022

In ovo injection of nutrients can modulate the embryo’s physiological responses against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) embryotoxicity. This hypothesis was tested using in ovo injection of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Ar. uu.) methanolic extract. The total polyphenols, total flavonoids, total antioxidant capacity, and GC-MS analysis were all assessed in the Ar. uu. methanolic extract. A total of 180 ten-day-old embryonated eggs were distributed into six groups of 30 replicates each. The first group was used as a control (non-injected), and the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth groups were injected with 10 µ double-distilled water (DDW), 500 µL methanol, 0.01 g Ar. uu./500 µL methanol, 50 ng AFB1/10 µL DDW, and 50 ng AFB1 in 10 µ DDW + 0.01 g Ar. uu./500 µL methanol, respectively. The relative embryo weight, residual yolk sac weight, tibia length and weight, and survival were recorded. Total and differential leukocytes, oxidative stress, and humoral immune responses were observed. The residual yolk sac was lower (p < 0.05) in the Ar. uu. group than other groups. The embryonic growth (tibia weight and length) was enhanced in AFB1 + Ar. uu.-injected embryos compared with those injected with AFB1 alone. In conclusion, in ovo injection of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi could modulate AFB1-induced toxicity in chicken embryos.